Sue's Journal - 2005

JOURNEY

I believe that life is a journey.
Our destiny is already known.
How we go about reaching our final destination is as
individualized as we are ourselves.
Traveling on our journeys can bring us on many roads.
Dead end, Hilly, winding,
bumpy, smooth, or cross roads.
What speed we use depends on what kind of road it is,
Country back roads, two lanes
Or major Highways of four, six lanes or more.
What elements are slowing us down;
rain, fog, snow, sleet or winds.
Are there speed traps, accidents, road construction
or the inevitable tourist?
Can you become lost?
Sometimes it seems that way, but with altering the
Route a new way is found.
There are times when you fins places to stay a little longer
to see the beauty
and appreciate the essence of what is around us.
There comes the time when we think we
found whatever we were
looking for and somehow know there is another place
You want to go, have to move on.
There is so much to accomplish and places
To make your mark.
Does the journey end?
Only when it has reached the final destination.

This is my new JOURNEY!

---

May,2005
Journal of Susan

May 19th was my last day of work. I am now officially retired just like Dave has been for the last 2 years. We left St. Petersburg and stopped for the weekend to join camping friends and family for one last weekend at Hillsborough River State Campground. Janet and Bob came to say hello and goodbye to us. It was great seeing them again. They haven’t changed and if being retired makes them look great, then I can’t wait to get started. Our daughter Erica had an Underwater Robotics Competition Saturday morning. It was awesome to see her in her element. We were surprised to find many magnets on our vehicle when we left. Just a little Web site that everyone who wants to know and keep track of us can. (Just a bit slower than a GPS). Daughter Kara came for a night. Just that last goodbye. After many tears of joy and sadness we left on Sunday morning early. We promise to be back by November.
We traveled I-75 north to I-10 west. Our first stop was just east of Pensacola, Fl. At the rest area just before the bridge. It is new or redone from the devastating storm Ivan. Our reason for the stop was to get a nap in. Something we decided to try to make the trip a little more pleasant and not wear ourselves out. It works! This may be a new travel device that our camping buddies can try out too.
After seeing the wrath that was done to the bridge on I-10 in Pensacola. It gives one pause to reflect how powerful these storms really are. A fuel stop was in order at a Flying J in Gulfport, Ms. We decided to have dinner too. Remember this place from a trip to New Orleans. We continued on to the last rest stop before Louisiana. Really neat place. It has a NASA visitor center too. This rest area has what is called Islands. You pull into these sites just like a pull through and you have your own place to park for the night. Well your really only to stay a few hours not overnight. I read or heard somewhere that it you only stayed 7 hours it was not considered over the time limit. One of the nicest rest stops we have encountered.

Day two was foggy most of the day. Started the North Route at I-55 Nearly to Tennessee before it cleared and became sunny. And warm. We had no dash air, but keeping the windows open it has been pleasant. Remembered the junction of I-10, I-12 and !-55 seems we had a little sway problem there one other time. Also someone had some mirrors hit around that area on that same trip. The construction is gone and so are the units that we had on that trip. Stopped outside of Memphis, Tn. For lunch and that nap and then in Matthews Mo. For fuel. You know how you begin to feel things are not going well, Strike two was about to be discovered. The Refrigerator was not working. Guess from all the bad roads and so forth some dirt was jostled into the flame of the Refrigerator. Dave managed to get some of it out, So at least we won’t loose the food in the freezer or refrigerator. We stopped about 30miles south of St. Louis, Mo. It was very warm, but managed to cool off during the night.

Day 3 It is cool this morning and will get through this City before rush hour. (St. Louis, Mo. Ranks up there with Atlanta, Ga. as one of my favorite places to avoid when traveling.) Remembering a ride through here in ‘96 with a few more following us. That was at high noon. Okay we didn’t have to go to the center this time so found I-270 around it. Not so bad for the early morning rush hour. Stopped for fuel in Kansas City, Mo. That was a little busy and quite unusual for a flying J. When we stopped for lunch in Weston, Mo. We found out the car battery was dead. Strike Three. Are we having fun yet? So we have a book, look up the nearest Wal-Mart. Not that we haven’t passed several before this along the highway. You know that little symbol that says within a short driving distance. They never come with instructions on how to find them. You would think they could say right or left off the exit. Or Some kind of clue. No they would rather have man and wife not stay happy with each other. Just to make this short. After a couple of turns and words that should not have been said We did manage to locate the Wal-Mart and get a Jump Starter. To return to the highway it was only a matter of more two exits up the highway and it would have been much easier, but does the book tell you that. Of course Not. We stopped at the next rest area and had lunch and that great afternoon nap. While the generator charged up the new charger so we can get the car started again. So we ended up spending the night. Someone else had some problems on another trip we took. Okay we have all had something go wrong along the way. Time for the tough to keep going.

Day 4 Traveling route 29 now. There are signs indicating this as the Lewis and Clark Trail. You begin to wonder if they actually walked along where you are now driving a vehicle. The Missouri River is within 7-10 miles west of this route. Missouri and Iowa is farm land with hills (bluffs) in the distance. Some fields are just being planted and others are beginning to sprout. Strange that this time we are seeing the beginning of the season instead of the middle of the growing season. Believed we saw rice fields in Missouri, guess they have been flooded enough that you need to try something that needs lots of water. North of Council Bluffs we got rain. Stopped in South Dakota for a few hours it was raining and very windy. The view was spectacular. Only wished we could have stayed longer the morning would have been beautiful and the pictures would have said a thousand words. We moved on up the road to a casino and stayed the night.

Day 5 has found us looking for something warm to wear. It was in the 40’s this morning. Looks like we may get some more rain during this day. Fuel Stop in Fargo N.D. Our first buffalo was seen outside of Jamestown. ND. First Antelope in Glen Ullin and the first oil well about 30 miles from Medora, N.D. Same here with the planting too early to see the Amber Waves of Grain.

By now I think that I can honestly say that rest stops should be more written about. Only 2 states have 24hr security and most do have not attendants even the welcome stations. Kiosks s are what they have or all kinds of literature. Most are, or in the process of being refurbished. Most notable is the hand washing. Newest on the market is made or Corrian or some thing similar to it. It gives you soap, water and blows your hands dry all in one compartment. Not bad for an invention and for keeping the area clean. Best rest rooms are in the Dakotas. Extremely neat and superbly clean. Each stall has a fold down seat with a seat belt attached to the side for a mom who must take her young one with her. My other ratings should be on Flying J’s. they have reasonable prices and are placed right off the highways for refueling, but some are the worst for getting in and out of. Only one did we actually refuel and find room for the rig to stop for any length of time.

So some want to know about the roads. What can I say Florida has the best, The rest are working on them. Missouri still has a long way to go, but they are making progress. I-94 has some rough spots, but they are taking up whole sections for 7-10 miles and redoing the whole road. What is done is very nice. We didn’t experience any traffic delays with construction. It could have been the time of day or the fact we are early travels with the season just beginning. Not many rigs on the road going North or South or East or West. Perhaps after this weekend there will be more. Of course school is still in session in a lot of places.

Didn’t see a lot of wildlife along the way. A couple of gators in Louisiana, a small deer in Mississippi., Ducks and geese in Missouri very few birds along the way. Not much for road kill some dogs and only a deer or two. Some turtles that didn’t make it. Sorry we were too late to save them oh an we did see a couple of frogs. There was a bird who flew into the side of the motor home while traveling.

Now that we are at Medora, our first destination we hope to see more wildlife and get some great pictures.

Until next time Don’t forget all you long distant travelers try that afternoon nap. It really works.

ENTRY 2

We are at the Medora campground it is adjacent to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The Town of Medora has a history all its own. It was started by a man Called Marquis De Mores. He named it after his wife, Medora who came from a wealthy family in New York. Marquis built her a lavish 26 room house and filled it with the finest of furnishings that money could buy in 1880. He then built a smaller house for her parents to reside in. This was there seasonal home. To give his wife and in-laws more reason to stay he built a Catholic Church Naturally they were Catholic. It is the oldest Catholic Church in N.D. Marquis established a headquarters for a meat processing plant then had the beef shipped by refrigerated railcar back East. It prospered for three years. Drought, bad weather, fierce competition from a larger corporation, as well as his own inactivity here came to the demise of the plant. The town managed to survive with coal mining, the shipping of cattle and ranching. Theodore Roosevelt was a frequent visitor of the De Mores Family. He fell in love with this area and as the saying goes the rest is History.
The present town of Medora host a population of about a 150. It has it’s tourist shops, gas station/grocery mart, courthouse, bank and post office. An elementary school. A few bars/eating establishments, 2 private campgrounds and 2 campgrounds within the National Park. Oh of course the railroad is very active. Medora Camp Ground is not a KOA, however it could qualify as one. (camping buddies will understand that comment) oh yeah and one main street. Very neat little town that swells with tourist during the summer. We are early and the places are just starting to open for business. There is a Cowboy Museum which is slated to open on Saturday. We were not on the guest list.
Drove one of the loops yesterday, Friday in Theodore National Park. The pictures will be posted soon. The park follows along the Little Missouri River. No we didn’t kayak it. It was a might chilly, in the 50’s with the wind blowing about 20mph. Saw wild horses, buffalo, prairie dogs, and few birds. Did see on in particular a brilliant blue color and could hover in mid air. It is called a Mountain Blue Bird. Rather intriguing to see these animals in the wild. The trees as just beginning to develop leaves. .Most just have buds on them The grass areas are starting to turn green instead of the winter brown.

Saturday morning it was 33 degrees Yeah you saw that right. Okay I know most of The South is sweating. So in the photo’s the awning is not out. Well with 25mph winds I don’t think that it would stay attached too long. They tell us it’s not a kite. Someone last year saw theirs fly over the roof of their rig. We believe in listening to good advice. Went to the second half of the loop today. Very different landscape from the other side. Sandstone Canyon was awesome. Looks down over the Little Missouri River. Animal trails everywhere. We walked along the tops of the cliffs and stopped at a couple of other trails and walked them a ways. The Buffalo trials were very deep in spots, I’m sure from many of days of use. Dave spotted the largest buffalo he had even seen alive or stuffed. I spotted the deer and then when we returned to the campground the Elk were across the street. I saw them first too. Dave says I’m getting better at spotting stuff. The evening isn’t much warmer in the 50’s. We are in the mountain time zone so it stay light till at least 10:00pm

Sunday may 29,2005 It was not a chilly this morning about 45. We made a lunch and left for the North Entrance of Theodore Roosevelt Park. It was a long drive. About fifty miles one way north. This area is quite different. Grass plains for as far as you could see both sides of the road. The loop in the park is 14miles and you travel In and out on the same road. The areas still follows the Little Missouri River and is made up of sandstone. Unusual when you touch it is like gains of sand, however it looks like it would be as hard as rock. As we arrived there was a rescue going on. Seems a girl about 10-12 had slipped down the cliff and landed on a ledge. She was extremely lucky that she caught herself at that spot as the drop off was quite steep. Her Brother and father were still on the top helping the rangers with the rescue. We saw many buffalo up close and personal. Called a couple of friends for help and they just didn’t understand our predicament. Something about Sun and Swimming were going on and they just couldn’t quite reach out to help.

We started to walk a couple of trails and the rains just started coming down harder. We got a slight hail storm on the way back to Medora. Not sure we could take the desolation of this area. There is nothing and I mean nothing but blue sky, grassland, cattle, buffalo, deer, Elk. Your neighbor is not close by any means. Stores are not even in the vocabulary as you noticed. They’re about 40 miles in one direction and 30 in the other. Of course you can get fuel and a few things but nothing major. Even growing up in rural New England I could at least see a house close by, we even had a market. Big Stores were a fair drive. Nothing like this. It’s definitely God’s Country.

Monday is Memorial Day May 30th. Out last day in Medora. It was 49 this morning and it started out as a beautiful day. It soon changed to rain showers most of the day. We spent the day looking in all the shops and playing tourist. People think the weather changes if Florida, they haven’t been here. We move on Tomorrow for Cody, Wyoming. Have enjoyed this area an glad we came back even if it was twenty years later. A lot has changed here and as time goes on more will be added. That’s progress.

Entry 3

Early on Tuesday Morning we left Medora to travel to Cody,Wy. The day started out rainy and didn't get any better until Billings, Montana. Through the clouds we spotted snow capped mountains. I-94 does pick up the Lewis and Clark Trail signs again. We crossed the Yellowstone River several times. The river was flowing pretty fast and it was close to its banks. Wonder how often it overflows?
Interesting thought, At the rest areas there are signs posted to stay on the walkways as rattlesnakes have been seen in the area. In the pet walk section there is no signs of danger. As we headed in a southerly direction the landscape is rocky and more bushes or tress were along the hillsides. Less rain here and we could tell some was needed. The coloring was more of the browns. All along the way the mountains loomed in front of us.

We entered Cody, Wy. from a Northeasterly direction. The Town was quite busy. It still looked the same and Irma's has room for parking your horse. Passed the Wal-Mart Will check it out and find out if they are looking for some unsavory characters that were in there early in the am quite some time ago. Well actually there is a new Super Wal-Mart just a couple of blocks down from the old one. If we are lucky we can catch a rodeo. They start the first of June.

Our campsite is 22miles outside of Cody. Called Green Creek RV Park. Wapiti,Wy. There are mountains all around us. The view is spectacular and the sites are close together.As I am sitting here typing the mule deer are making a showing by coming down the hillside. About six of them. Okay Dave spotted these first.

Wednesday we heard the all too familiar sound of rain on the roof. It was in the 40's when we opened the curtains the mountains
around us were all snowed capped. Very Majestic and serene. Went and visited with Carl and Helen today. They look terrific and
wanted to know all about our traveling family. We updated them and they Wish you all the best. They would have liked to seen
you all again.

The wind is blowing constantly and if the gusts would calm down we could actually sit outside. Remembering a wild sandstorm night
when we were here last time.

Entry 4

We did the Yellowstone loop today. It was snowing as we entered the park. There is still road construction going on at the east entrance. Probably will be for quite some time. Close to the entrance we saw an actual moose. There weren't as many buffalo as last time. Did see more elk.

We went to Old Faithful and arrived just in time to see the geyser. Wanted to visit the lodge, however it is being remodeled and was not open at this time. Guess I will have to take Disney's word that their lodge looks the same. The mud pots are still bubbling and the thermals were more visible every place mainly as the temperature was chilly. Many areas looked serene and majestic with the snow still on the trees and the mountains tops still covered. It was a great day and glad that our friends from Cody got to enjoy it with us.

Entry 5 - The Last Few Days In Cody

The temperature is still in the 40s. the wind has died down somewhat. Every morning you can see that the mountains got snow during the night. At somepoint during the day there is the rain shower that comes along. We have visited often with our friends and so glad to came to see them. It actually warmed up and was sunny the last two days. There is the Buffalo Bill Dam just outside of Cody. It is very picturesque. There is camping their but no connections. Would be great for a night or two, Not for an extended stay.

There has been much said here about the Beartooth Mountain Pass. It will take quite sometime and mucho money to get it passable again. Montana will have a big road project to do. Red Lodge will see a decline in tourism. Felt bad for the people that were stranded and had to leave their vehicles and walk down the mountain and hope all along the way that it was the safest thing to do.

We must leave tommorow. Dave will drive the motorhome and I will drive the car through Yellowstone and out the West Entrance. On to Idaho we must go. Somewhere along the drive we will reconnect the two vehicles. Having watched everyone the other day. The road is very well used and there are delays going into the park because of construction. Very few pull out areas when you are towing so if we need to pull over we can at least get both vehicles out of the way.

We are doing our best to use the internet whenever possible.Thanks to those night owls that we have caught on. Soon we will be 3 hours behind everyone. Guess we will have even later nights.

Entry 6 - Yellowstone to Idaho

We left Wapiti,Wy. in the rain as usual. Getting use to this liquid stuff. Being thankful for the small stuff we didn't have to put a pop-up down wet. Been there, done that and only miss it occasionally. The drive through Yellowstone early in the morning was delightful, not much traffic a little wildlife. We saw a mother moose and her baby. Wondered how many people actually thought that the park put them there for display. The herds of buffalo were in abundance. Mostly in the same area we stopped to have lunch one time a few years ago. It was raining pretty hard or we would have stopped to take pictures of the swans on the river. Was surprised to see so many. The elk were active too. Saw one that was right next to a buffalo. Mayhaps they have a friendship. Exited out the West entrance into Montana. Yeah we thought it would be in Idaho too. The fire that happened in here many years ago really raveged this end of Yellowstone. New growth is evident everywhere with in the park, but this entrance is not coming back as fast. Wash outs on the hillsides and the size and abundance of the new trees is slower. There is a town called Madison. It is very rugged around the edges, however modernization is on the prowl. It is quite bustling with traffic and tourist. Museums new and old, railroad stations, grizzly bear and wolf museums and shopping, Yes there were actual stores, gas stations and not much parking for big rigs. The road signs are a little confusing. We did find route 20 by going around the backside of town. Forest are lush and green on this route. You get into Idaho and realize that fishing is the biggest sport going. Okay they prosbably hunt too. Beautiful rushing rivers, have had a lot of rain and lodges and outfitters advertise fishing packages on their billboards. Route 20 runs along the Henry's River. The Mountains were on the horizon and are part of the Teton range, when the clouds lifted we could see snow on some of the highest peaks. The fields are planted with potatoes and a grain of some kind that is thick, tall, lush and green. Could be alfalfa,or barley. Fields of Wildflowers, they are a huge daisey. White in color and as you venture south they are in abundance in yellow. Wanted to keep some, but the ants needed them as a home or food source. So we left them to it. No pictures yet, Yup it was raining. By the time we reached Blackfoot we needed a lunch break. The rest area was along Henry's river and a few were fishing in the rain. Would have had that nap, but seeing it was still raining decided to push on and maybe find sunshine. Found Sunshine in the outskirts of Pocatello where we picked up route I-86 and the Snake River. We found our campground in Delco, Idaho on route I-84 and will probably stay 3 days. You guessed it predicting more rain. The temperature is in the 40's. We are thankful for the cool weather especially when we see the temps in the south and up the eastern coast. This campground does have a web site, www.travelstop216.com Just in case you want to check it out. Lake Walcott State Park and Minidoka N.W.R. is just down the road. Just have to find out which direction down is. Having climbed up and down some passes today it was a little long. It was within our 350 mile range a day. I'll confess it was actually 359 miles. Dave says I need to watch for those exta miles.

We actually came out of hibernation of the motorhome and did some investigation of the surrounding area. The wind is blowing and the sun did shine but the temp didn't reach beyone the 50's. Delco is very small town. The usual one stop sign, gas station and a few houses, school and farmlands. Beautiful view of the mountains. Turned around and went to Rupert. Now this is a big town. Dollar General, Kings, a supermarket, gas stations, car wash/oil change, restaurants, and the biggest train depot area I've seen in quite some time. Know some little boys who like trians just like their Grandma, will have to get pictures for them.

Entry 7 - Idaho to Oregon

June 8th. It's raining again. Thought we would stay put for another day, however when we went to book for another night the price had changed. The Management decided after we were nearly finshed packing and hooking up that they would honor their original discount. Would have understood if the campground was booked or in the height of the season. We decided to move on to Oregon. We soon ran out of the rain, thank goodness. Bright sunshine and yes, the mountains still have snow. Heard on the radio that Utah had a snowfall unexpectedly overnight. Sure glad we didn't pick that route to travel westward. Boise, Idaho is a fairly large city. It could compare in size to Tampa or St. Petersburg. Saw a few antelop along the way. Think we have finally solved what is growing in the fields besides potatoes, Rye. There are an abundance of dairy farms and many cheeese processing plants. Climbed a few passes and came down a few canyons. Have crossed the Snake River many times. Intriguing how the farms have tapped into the river for irrigation. Many canals,locks and pipes are visable along the roadways.

We are in Baker City, Oregon This will be our stop for the next 4 nights. Took no chances on the price changing and paid in advance. There is a few things to do and see here. A train ride,The OregonTrail Interpretive Center, Hell's Canyon, Active Ghost Town, and of course Historic Baker City itself. We will look into a few of these things and reportabout them.

June9th.
Bright sunny day, hooray, sunshine. Actually wore a light windbreaker today,long pants of course. Decided to go to the Oregon Trail Center. What a neat place. Very modern outside quite differently inside. Told a lot of history about the trail, who preserved it and why. We haveseen the trail in a couple of different places over time, This is spectacular, It goes over the ridges, around the valleys, down the steep slopes, and some- times there is several ruts dug just because the plateau was so wide, they were tired of eating trail dust, that they traveled side by side. Having traveled as far as we have now in a motorhome with all the conviences you could possably want. Seeng the landscape less flat in places than they did. Being in a covered wagon,pulled by oxen. Walking most of the 2000 miles from Missouri to here. Days of illness, snake bites, widerness, Indians that were not friendly, Losing loved ones, Giving up prized posessions,(been there) and yet they kept going. What fortatude! We walked one of the trails, not very far, but enough to know that it is still there. Some stayed as soon as they saw a promise of a town or fort. Yet the rest pushed on further west and north. There are some old abandon gold and silver mines. On our trail there were signs of a large animal with four paws that uses it quite frequently. Could tell by the droppings left behind, also the fresher prints. So we didn't venture too far just enough to get the field of the terrain. Surprising that when you see the sage brush it doesn't look very tall, when you are down in it is very concealing and thick. Other wildlife has been two quail. they must be in residence here. Have been around all day in the same spot. Baker City is a mix of old and modern. It is a busy city (okay it's really a town,) a lot of traffic from the intersate stop for restaurant, lodging, gasoline and a little site seeing. A lot of people have stayed and became part of the community instead of traveling on to wherever they we suppose to be going.

Entry 8 - Baker City to Memaloose

June 10 -11
We have met some others that will be going to to the rally in Salem. Will be looking forward to seeing how many more along the way we meet before getting there. We went along the Elk Horn Highway and came to a town called McEwen. There we got on a train to the town of Sumpter. The area was dredged for gold until the 50's. On the train were two men who had actually work on the dredge when they were younger. They said it was quite an operation and that there were three dredges at one time. The train was an old steam engine and it was on the narrow guage tracks. Not a lot of wild life out and about. Just some deer. The wildflowers are just coming out. The cottonwood trees are in full bloom. Lilac Bushes everwhere and mostly gone by. The ones in Wyoming were still in full bloom. Forgot how wonderful they smell. There are Iris' everywehre in all colors that you could imagine. Heard about Tropical Storm Arlene, and kept in touch with those who we left behind. All seem to be well except for some rain. Have had plenty of that ourselves.

We left Baker City on Sunday morning early. We have found sunshine so far and enjoying it. We fueled up in LaGrange, Or. they don't give you the discount at Flying J there. You also don't pump your own fuel. The drive over Pendelton was quite impressive. Bends, turns and twist. A downward grade of about 6% for three miles or more. It empties out on to flat plains. We have seen Mt. Hood in the distance and it looks grand with the white cap. The Columbia River is very wide as it meanders down toward Astoria. Train tracks run along both sides of the river banks. The scenery reminds me of the Grand Canyon. Dave wants to see more trees, he's a little tired of this farmland and brown rock landscape. The trees do appear now and then, but not like a forrest. Our campground is Memaloose State Park right along the Columbia River. It is quite unique, very busy at times and other times quiet.

June 12-17
The trains run quite frequenty, we figured out with the Washington side running 40 trains a day and the Oregon side running 40 trains a day that is about 1 train every 15 to twenty minutes. Worse than KOA. We have become use to them somewhat, as they always don't blow the whistles. We have met some more couple going to the rally here. We have also seen more and more units going by. Will be anxious now to join them on Saturaday. Have visisted a couple of the waterfalls in the area. Multnomah Falls 620 of plunging water. and Pony Tail, Bridal Veil not as big but just as nice. You will like the pictures when you see them. We hiked up to the top of the Pony tail and Bridal Veil falls. It was well worth the hike. The trees are Ponderosas and Dave and I couldn't put our arms around them together. It also hurt you next to look up that high. We found a town with a Wal-mart. Sure miss the super ones when you need one. There is a little town about 3 miles away and we picked cherries from the trees. Very sweet and oh so good. We also discovered a cove just below the train tracks where we are staying. The water is very cold. Not many boats or barges on this part of the river. Some areas they windsurf. The River is very wide at points, currents running swiftly, and when the wind blow there are white caps. You can see the roadway that runs along the Washington side. Found a fish hatchery and visited all the fish. Dave wanted to go fishing, but he will have to wait. Don't think they would have let him anyways. The sturgeon are huge and they have such cute faces with little wiskers hanging down. Had a granddaddy that was 6 feet or longer and weighed about 400 lbs. There was also Rainbow trout which were for display and very fat from being fed and the salmon were just fingerlings. The weather has been very nice here. 'Everyday has been sunny and one day it was 76degrees. We are in for a few more showers for the next couple of days. Wanting to move on now to see the rest of the river. Know that we will also becoming to more traffice and larger cities.

Entry 9 - Memaloose to Salem, Oregon

We left Memaloose at 5:15 in the morning to make it to the rally park in time in time for our early morning check in. It was a two hour drive along the gorge, was a little sad to leave this area it was so peaceful and beautiful to look at each morning. Being Saturday the traffic was light going around Portland. We fueled up in Troutdale, just outside of Portland. We found our exit and the fairgrounds with ease. As we pulled in to unhitch the jeep the couple we had met some days earlier were in front of us. If we had planned to meet them it never would have happened. There were three rigs all in a row just like ours. the parking people wanted to know if we were traveling together. We weren't. just happened that way. We were on the pavement this year. No worry about getting stuck for us. It was truly amazing. All day Saturday it was a steady stream of rigs coming it. about 500 rigs arrived on Saturaday, about 150 on Sunday and 50 more on Sunday. Great entertainment for the afternoon. It was down to business right away. getting checked in and our badges on with the new bar added. We scanned the area for where the events would be held and watched everyone coming in. We actually got to put our awning out a couple of times. Really have to watch the wind gusts. There was a car show going on when we arrived; but we were not allowed into that area of the fairgrounds. I actually took a craft class and it was fun. Well actually the instructor said we could say all the bad words we knew for the first 20 minutes, then you had to get down to business. I'll keep you in suspense what I made. It's not a quilt. Those who know me will be surprised. The new Quarter for Oregon came out and I have yet to see or find one in any of the change that has been given. Oh yeah it was actually quite warmfor a change. Had to find some shade. We found a group we joined last year and brought new members with us and did a cookout in the swamp.The Fulltimers are located mostly in Arizona or New Mexico, and Texas, but come from all over. Yeah well somebody had to park in a field this year but not us. Each evening we sat outside till late and watched some great sunsets. Also watched a few storms in the distance with lightening. We looked up some members from last year and caught up with events that happened since last year. We got our service done and bought a few things too. We had a lot of fun this year and have a few more friends to add. One of them has a rig just like ours. They will be meeting us in Washington after the 4th of July. We stayed busy all week with seminars, classes and walked a lot,(Think my clothes fit differently) ate a lot and shopped even more One of the best things this year was the Saturday morning Market came to the Fairgrounds for us on Thursday. We got lots of Strawberries, Blueberries and Rasberries. yummy. We didn't win any
prizes, but Florida came in first for the most rigs from the states represented. 65.

It all came to an end on The following Saturday morning we left to come for Lafayette, Oregon. Right in the middle of the Willamette Vally Wine Country. So many wineries so little time. I think we need help with the sampling. It was a nice little drive over here along a couple of back roads with lots of farms and winery's and the mountains in the distant horizon. Well we have to find the coast sometime, probably tomorrow.

Entry 10 - The Oregon Coast

Sunday June 26, 2005
We decided to find the coast of Oregon today. We are staying about and hour and 1/2 away from there. We took Rt 18 west and found Rt 101 and headed north. Will leave the southern coast for later in the summer. Route 101 is listed as a coastal scenic road. It meanders through farm land and you see the coast occasionally. Not what we were looking for. We then found a road that took us down to the waters edge. A true coastal road, small towns, beach access, and right along the water, places to pull over and oooh and ahhhh over. We stopped often so only did a small portion From north of Lincoln toTallimook. The road was listed as a three Cape Drive. The day started out sunny, but we knew that the clouds were on there way in when we left. Doesn't matter you just go anyways. We found our first large rock formation at Cape Kiwanda, you've seen this in magazines one lonely, massive formation just of shore. Sand was warm, water was very chilly. Tide was way out and currents were strong and fierce. Our next stop was Cape Lookout. Nice State Park and tall massive trees at the entrance and along the cliffs. We thought about the trail, it was two miles down to the bottom and decided that it was also two miles back up in the rain. So we did what you are suppose to do and drove on. Of course we came to the bottom of the lookout and there was the beach in easier access. Our next stop was at Oceanside, The Three Arch Rock formation. We walked down the beach to them, very impressive, took a picture of some rocks with all the mussels and clams on them and of course there is the barnacles. We started off further down the beach to some others and the rain started even more. It had caught up with us. We also noticed the tide was coming in now so it probably wasn't a good idea to continue walking around them. Don't think I want to tread water that is freezing cold. We'll leave that for another day. We found a campground at Netarts Bay and made a reservation for August so we will continue that walk next time and keep an eye on the tides. While making our reservations we also noticed a gathering of sea lions just across the street on a sandbar. There were moms with pups nursing. It was so cool. Can hardly wait for August now. People were clamming and we want to do that too. Just before we reached Cape Meares, we found a beach access along the road there were stairs leading to the waters edge, A trough had been built to help with the errosion from the fresh water that was flowing from the other side of the street it made a waterfall and the birds were having a great time in it. The tide was still coming in so didn't get to spend a lot of time there. When we drove up a man was fishing just behind the rocks standing in the sand. By the time we got down there the man had moved and the water was around the rock, comes in fast. Some other people were having to clammer over the rocks along the shore line to get back. At Cape Meares there is also a National Wildlife Preserve and a lighthouse. I know how much I like them, but I'll need something to do and see when we spend the week there. You remember the Three Arch Rocks? You can see them from Cape Meares and the Arch was all but filled with water by the time we got there. We finished these three coves and headed back to Tallimook and route 101. Nice road and lots of curves. Told Dave to just pretend that we are on the road to our friends house in the Carolina's. It's a little wider, but just as curvy. We passed a few wineries along the way too will have to check them out. Probably will have to set a limit like someone else who was out here last year. Beautiful wildflowers were along the roadside Queen's anne lace, lupine, daisies, morning glories,and one was a big bush with bright read blooms, probably poisonous just because it was so vivid. The traffic was a little heavier coming back, same everywhere with weekend traffic it guess.

Entry 11 - Two Town Tour

The last couple of days have been rainy and some times it clears enough for the sun to come out. We decided to see what the town of McMinnville was about. It is a large town with plenty of shopping the usual stores; Penny's, Sear, Wal-mart, Lowes, Walgreens, banks and fast food restraunts. There is a mill for the huge logs and a saw mill to make them into lumber. The Cascade steel-mill and a plant for making Sweet Creamy Butter. Plenty of wineries. There are groves of Hazel nuts, which are not in season. Plenty of fruits like blueberries, cherries, rasberries and the like. Plants are everywhere. Huge hanging flower baskets lined both sides of the streets. We spent time appreciating the flowers and stopped at a couple of nurseries just to oggle over them. Okay I confess I now own a hanging basket of flowers, which hangs off one of the mirrors. We still don't have enough room to open the awning. Every one has roses growing in their yards.

Lafayette is a small town. Not a rich one by any means. I'm sure most of the people work in McMinnvell. One street kind of place, small grocery store, coffee shop and lots of antique shops. A little history of being settled in the 1800's. Did find a park with a river. Seems the Indians used to run a ferry many moons ago. Then a dam was built and locks put in but it didn't prosper. Along came the railroad and it wasn't needed anymore. So in the 1960's they took the dam and the locks out to let the river run free again. The farms are plentiful and the Range Mountains are lush and green in the distance. We will leave this place tomorrow and move on the Washington. Will be there for the month of July.

Entry 12 - Oregon to Washington

June 29th to July 4th
We left our wine country site a couple of days early. So at 5:30am we headed for Portland to miss the morning rushhour traffic. By the looks of triple decked highways and crisscrossing of roadways things could get quite busy and gridlocked fast. We didn't see a lot of highrises, one in particular was quite striking two spheres all made of light green colored glass. It could have been the arts center as it was along the riverbank. Parkland and gardens, boats in the port and railway station. As you leave the city the building boom is going strong with housing. Soon thereafter the greens of the forrest were everywhere. We stopped for breakfast at a rest area just before Olympia, Washington and our turnoff for Rt 101. These rest area's have free coffee and you can stay up to 8hrs. They do fillup with travelers and truckers. Rt. 101 is a good road and most of it is two lanes that meander along the shoreline with twists and turns. Signs are posted to not hold up traffic. Illegal to have more than 5 vehicles behind you. There are pull outs to accommodates you. There is also a climb involved and of course the small towns now and then. New houses being built all along the way especially where the views of the water are fantastic. You come upon the Indian Reservation and there are flag banners strung across the road, they are selling fireworks. they are very close to each other and the names of the places are worth remembering (Ill-eagle, Cheap Cheep Cheap, Discount Below) Dave says he didn't dare stop at one cause we would have taken up 3 or 4 roadside stands and then they would have all claimed we were there customer. They are illegal anyways outside of the reservation. Forgot to mention what goes up must also take time to come down the other side. We only had to pull over twice for traffic to go by. Were taking some pictures of the flowers along the roadside, not such a good idea, there are snakes and them there hills. Went by Port Townsend, Sequim (squim) and into Port Angeles. Very big port towns. We found our campground and set up all before lunchtime. The sites are not all that big, Our two slides cover up part of the next one to us and we can't put the awning out because of the trees on the other side. At least we have shade and a little space to put a chair out. We have missed the trains at this campground. Funny how the sounds grow on you after a while. The wifi is not working like we hoped it would here. Our site may be too far from the antenna, we still have our other service.

On Thursday we went into town and seeing we will be here a month needed to familiarize ourselves with the area. It is quite easy to get around and there are many kinds of stores, just like were used to. The gas prices are about 2.43 and the diesel is about the same. On July 4th there will be a parade and fireworks. The parade is at 6:00pm and the fireworks sometime after 10:00 or whenever it gets dark. Later in the month there will be a Tall ship invasion, sandsculptures, and the Lavender festival in Sequim. Having checked out the port and the rest of the town we had lunch at a burger drivethrough that was recommended to us. It is right along the main highway and you just pullover and wait your turn. Somehow where were from this could result in a few accidents. The day was still young so we went to check out the visitor center at Hurricane Ridge. Needless to say we ended up at the top of Hurricane Ridge. The report of the view being clear we couldn't resist. Eighteen miles straight up and curving as you go. Watching out for deer that were coming down the rock cliffs and the dropoff on the other side. Climb through clouds and a couple of tunnels that were cloud covered our destination reached at a little over 5200ft it was worth the drive. Many surrounding peaks still had some snow and there was a glacier visible to the naked eye. As we walked around the area we spotted deer in a field of flowers so close we could have petted them. A Raven was making quite a racket while building a nest just over the side of a hill. As we peared over there was a patch of snow still there. We couldn't see the harbor as the clouds were moving in. We'll have to go again.

Friday we did some shopping and Saturday we went to the Saturday market, don't know if Wednesdays is any bigger, but in all of 15min we covered the whole thing. Picked some flowers at a farm on our way back for $5.00 you get a good size bouquet of whatever ones you want. There is a dam close to the campground so we checked it out. Need to go back and get the pictures, the batteries went dead on the camera. The roadways and campgounds are busy for the holiday weekend so we decided to wait out the people and go see the Rainforest and the other things during the week days. The weather has been nice in the 70's during the day and 40-50's at night. Only a sprinkling of rain here and there. No television reception so we have been watching movies that you rent for a dollar a day such a deal.

Now remember we are in small town America so our display of fireworks is what you would expect. Colorful and nice not plentiful and a little more drawn out, but not like what we are used to. We had a good view and the people were very interesting. Our first site of the interesting has to do with a pair of BIG key keepers, You know the kind that you clip on your belt loops of your jeans or pants. They were being used as earrings on one mans ears. The next was the blue hair and beard. Okay patriotism was probably not the intent. Music was great and not overly loud, For the most part this is not a ritzy area. Tourist and the arts are more the normal. Very clean city and even cigarette butts are not discarded on the ground. Even the newspapers account of holiday trash was a wapping 5 bags full. They do take care of the environment.

July5
With the holiday traffic thinned out we ventured to Cape Flattery, The most Northwestern End of the continuous United States. Taking Rt.112 to get there is an adventure in itself. The road is good, narrow in places with twist, 90 degree turns, 45 degree turns, hairpins, You get the idea. Now add Logging trucks and motorhomes with boats, cars or whatever being towed. Squiggly road sign indicating as such, speed limits of 15,20,30mph for the next so many miles. You take heed and pay attention to them. Of course the whole roadway is like that. So why not just say so in the beginning. Oh did I mention the 9 percent grade going down. When you climb out of the forest, views along the water make it all worth it. Now this is rain country so you guessed it. If you wait for a sunny day it may not arrive. We ran out of blacktop in Neah Bay so the last 5 miles was dirt through the dense forest. Quite so time ago we went camping with a group in a dense forest area and it was extremely dark. This would be that dark. At the top was a view of the island and the lighthouse. Sea crashing waves and rain drizzling down. After lunch we drove back down about a mile and picked up the walking trail. It is a 3/4 mile hike out to the ridge. Spectacular view ofrocks, caves, crashing waves, and a closer view of the lighthouse. Stellar Sea Lions on the rocks just of the same island as the lighthouse , golden eagles in the treetops, oyster catchers chattering on the rock below and the seagulls nesting. The rain was coming down harder, With our raincoats all stayed pretty dry except for the feet.

July 6
It is sunny today of course, It was pretty warm this morning about 64, how quick things change it got windy and the clouds moved in we needed long sleeves and the coolness stayed the rest of the day. We have been rejoined with our friends from the rally and have caught up on what has been happening the last couple of weeks. The campgound is having its changing of the slots. Old going out new coming in. Having looked around this is pretty nice here, quiet, and just far enough out of the way of things. There is a web site www.ElwhaDamRVPark.com Pictures look as if it would be flat, well only on top of the hill next to the pond. They are pretty level though. We tried a beach access, why is it we never pick the right tide. Got to work on that. Good views looking up the hillsides. Interesting beach sand being dark brown or grayish coloring.

Entry 13 - Washington

July 7,8,9,10
We are having a day of rest and catching up on the household chores and laundry. Went into town for some supplies and to send some mail. With our friends we found a great place to have Chinese Food. It has been rated the best for the last 4 years. It was great food. Spent some time exploring the back roads and finding out where they connect to. Ended up at Salt Creek Recreation are. A small part of it is accessable to the general public. The rest is Privately owned. The state campground it primitive, the view would be worth staying a day or two. The sites lookout over the water to Vancouver Island. High cliffs that you walk down to the water. Not many shells on the beach mostly seaweed and logs that have washed up. Ediz Hook is at the west end of town. It juts out about two miles into the port of Angeles. From here you can look back and see the city and the Olympic Mountains rising above. The rocks on
the beach are called "rip-rap". People pile these stones and make rock towers. Yes, we naturally had to do that. A Coast Guard Station is at the very end. You can launch a boat in an area just before the station and go fishing for salmon, halibut, and trout. Many logs are in the water here. Actually saw a man standing on the logs in the water securing them to a float area. These log are for the paper mill which is at the entrace for the hook. It is a fairly large mill and you drive through it to get out onto the hook. The paper mill brought back memories. Having grown up in a town with two of them. Most of my family worked in these kind of mills. Some smell to it , but not consitant enough to make you ill. The mills where I lived had the pulp delivered to make the paper. This mill makes
the pulp. Tried to go back to Hurricane Ridge, but it was socked in with the clouds. On Saturday our friends left us to start there journey to California. We will meet up with them again in Septembert at Yosemite.

Drove to the Dungeness Spit it is just west of Sequim. It is a National Wildlife Refuge, we didn't see any birds other than sea gulls and signs were posted for harbor seals with pups on the shore line. Didn't see any of those either. There is a light house at the end of the spit. Only a 5 mile walk one way. Just seeing it from a lookout was okay with us. There is a trail just under a half mile through the
forest down and around a hill and out to the beach . Great for viewing the coast line of The San Juan Islands and watching the ships sail by. Many logs and trees washed up and rocks that are very smooth and flat for stacking. We had lunch and on our way out of this area decided to drive around we discovered a couple of farms that you could pick our own blueberries, strawberries and rasberries. In a matter of a few minutes we had a couple of pounds of each. The lavender gardens were also in the same area. How awsome to see a field all purple. You can also pick your own bunch of lavender for about 3-5 dollars. We came across a garden that was private and the owner let us walk among the flowers. It was like being in Victory Gardens. Flowers of every color and kind. He said he does let people use his garden for weddings. Set aside was an area that you could pick your own bouquet. Seeing I already have a couple of vases I resisted the temptation of turning the motorhome into a florist shop. Next week when the Lavender Festival begins this will be another story. Seeing we were having such good luck finding things we went to the Mountain Top Winery. It was out of the way and very much on top of a mountain. Great wine, They only give you a little taste, cause you have to come back down the mountain. The vineyard itself is in Eastern Washington where the climate is better for growing the grapes.

Entry 14 - Hoh Rainforest

July 12.
We started our day early so we could take advantage of the clear sky and sunshine. Rt 101 is the main road around the Olympic National Park. It is 2 lanes with pull-outs and towns along the way. The are other roads that that go off to the different parks and sections. We will be exploring these in the next couple of weeks. Lake Crescent is a huge lake that you drive along the shoreline of for about 15miles. Beautiful, pristine and not overly built up. There are areas you can pull off to view and some parkland you could use for the day. Campgrounds, but not for big rigs. You cross over the Sol Duc River many times. Like you do the Missouri River when traveling the central part of the states. The River does flow out to the Pacific. Salmon would be spawning in it. Forest are being cut and replanting is everywhere. Conservation is practiced. Forks was the largest town with supermakets, hardware stores, gas stations, resturants and a main street with shops. Logging, lumbermills,are the industries. There is also a logging museum and tribute to the industry and its workers. Very nicely done by the way.

After a two hour drive we reached the Hoh Rainforest. There are 4 trails of which we did three. Hall of Mosses Trail is 0.8 of a mile with about another 100ft elevation which goes through the older growth temperate rain forest. Spruce Nature Trail is little over a mile in length and follows along the Hoh river The Mini-trail connects these two trails. On both trails you will find gigantic trees. Two Hundred feet around and 200-300 feet tall. Western red cedar, Bigleaf maple, Alder, Spruce, and Fir. Large ferns abound, as well as salomberry bushes that the elk have eaten the new growth from as well as the berries. When the trees fall they become what is know as "nurselogs" and support new life. The downed logs have shallow root systems as the average rainfall is 12 feet (yes I said feet). Mosses and Lichen attach themselves to the branches of these trees and give the effect of curtains or drapes. Reminded me of a scary Halloween Movie scene. These curtains are quite thick. There was evidence of recent trees downed, the rangers tell us that the shallow root system, heavy moss on the branches, and high winds take a toll on the trees. You will see from the pictures that two trees actually became the walkway when they fell side by side. Look like pipes were laid down. When you see the "nurselogs" and the growth that has sprung from them it is amazing. The roots are sometimes twisted and looks like they have strangled the fallen tree. Because the rain is in abundance so are the mosquitoes and flies. As long as you keep moving they don't bother you much. By the way this has been our first encounter with any mosquitoes. All along the way I was certain that these white trees were Birch. They are mistaken for birch, but are Alders that a fungus or white lichen has attached itself to and the bark appears white. There are no Birch trees in the Olympic Forest. Like the saying goes, learn something new everyday. The Hoh Riveris glacier fed. It runs very fast, wide, and deep. It is 50 miles long and empties in the Pacific Ocean. Roosevelt Elk are in this park more than anywhere else. We did see one herd along the riverbank on our way out. It had a few babies and the Bull was keeping watch. A lone one was a distance away. It is calfing time so she may have been there to have her new one. She was quite fat in the belly. On the trails We also saw what is called a mountain beaver. Cute litte, round, fat, fuzzy, critter. They are not often seen so we were quite lucky. He was along the mosses trail and nearly ran over Dave's foot. We found centipides, and black slugs and yellow ones they call banana slugs. They aren't little 6-8 inches in length and 2-3inches in width. Sorry slugs are not my favorite things. The other trail we didn't do was 17.3 miles and you need a permit and overnight or two to do. Sorry we don't do grown camping anymore. Would have loved to have seen the glacier and meadow though.

Having been to a few different parks now it never stops to amaze Dave and I how much people don't see. They are in a constant rush and never see half of what we do. They drive 90 miles and hour and never glance at the sides of the road, walk noisily and briskly along the pathways just glance at things never really seeing. When cars are stopped by the side of the road it is ususally a good indication that something is there. They just keep going. These are also the ones that by the time you enter the park they are leaving it. Know that there are just so many hours in a day, but if you came all this way to see something I hope they at least saw something.

 

Entry 15 - Lavender Festival

Friday was overcast and the temperature was mild. The Lavender Festival was taking place this weekend in Sequim, Washington. Sequim is about 15 miles east of Port Angeles. Very easy to find. Being the first day the attendance was light and plenty of parking. About 100 vendors for selling anything and everything to do with lavender. Soap, candles, honey, jelly, hand creams, plants, and bundles of lavender, seeds, butter,and even ice cream. There was also scarves and dogs treats. As we walked around it began to rain. Everyone took it in stride, out came the raincoats, the umbrellas popped up and everyone kept on going.( In Florida everyone would have gone home.) We then visited some of the farms. There are several in a 10mile radius. Each share their expertise with how to grow, dry, make crafts, or whatever is their speciality. We got our lavender and found out Dave is allergic to it. So it has to stay outside to dry out and then maybe I can bring it in. We learned a little about the history of how lavender got started growing in this area. Back in the earlier 1990's the farmland was starting to be developed into housing and condos. Some in the community decided to investigate what could be grown to try and save the agriculture of the area. It just so happens that Sequim is the same Latitude as a town in France that also grows lavender. They started planting an in a couple of years the plants began to prosper. Lavender was being sold at the Saturday Market and by 1996 the first festival was held and seven farms were growing lavender. Nine years later it is a thriving enterprise and thirty farms now grow it and the festival is three days long. Sequim is recognized as the Lavender Capital of North America. So not everybody wants to go into a field and be surrounded by purple, but it is rather unique. By the way there are several different varities of Lavender as well as colors, light and dark purple, white, pink, and one add did say yellow.

Entry 16 - Elwha

Elwha River Valley
This drive follows the Elwha river. It has two campgrounds, not for the big rigs though. After you enter the gate there is a short hike to a waterfall. Next we spotted some deer, a doe an 3 bucks. They were in an apple orchard, I think we disturbed their snacking time. We came upon the second dam on this river The Glines Canyon Dame and it forms Lake Mills. The first dam or lower one is Elwha
where we are camped it forms Lake Aldwell. I mentioned before about the removal of these dams so that the salmon can return. This is a major project to begin in 2007. Both of these huge lakes will have to be drained before removal can begin. We then drove up a one lane road to an area that has a hiking trail that leads to some hot springs. It is a little over 2 miles to the springs. We walked along this trail. On our return down the road we stopped along side of the road and found a ladder to the riverbead. It was quite a climb down an up, but we made it. This area will all change drasticly when the work is done on the dams.

Hurricane Ridge revisited
The weather has been nice and clear so back to Hurricane Ridge we went. We finally got to see the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the ferry M.V. Coho leaving port for another trip across it. We walked along Hurricane Ridge and I mean the ridge! More wildflowers were in bloom and different verities. Tiger Lily, Harebells, mountain rose, mountain azalea, just to name a few. On our way down from the ridge we spotted a deer hiding under some trees. Very content to stay there out of the warmth of the day.

Sol Duck
Sol Duck has the warm mineral springs, kind of looses our interest when you discover it is a cemented pool area. There is a lodge and cabins that many people come to just to go into the springs. We prefer the wild. There are campgrounds and some hiking trails. We found one with a waterfall and were not disappointed in the beauty of it. We know someone who loves waterfalls, so we have to go for her just to send a picture of it. We like them too. Dave and I wonder at all the beauty we find on these hikes, no matter how many we do it is still amazing to see the size of the trees and ferns. We were on one trail and the moss that was growing reminded us of duck weed on the pond in Florida. Only this smelled very much like mint. Many of these trail connect and crisscross each other. It is possible to hike the entire Olympic Forest from one end to the other. We see warning signs posted for bear and cougar. We have not seen any, the trails we are on are well used. However that doesn't mean they are not around.

Sand Sculptures
Port Angeles has a sand sculpture contest. Ten sculptors were give 16 hours to create a masterpiece to do with Myths, Legens and or Fantasy. Late Saturday morning we inspected their handywork. Quite astounding work. Dragons, mermaids, castles,Trojan horse, lions, even Harry Potter was protraid. This was downtown on their waterfront. However beach sand is not available here so it had to be trucked in from another coast. The waterfront has a marinelife center, a pier, and a rock beach where you could swim if you are brave enough to get into the icy water. This festival had the ususal vendors selling their wares and music to get you going. The Saturday Market was going on and the shops all had sales too.

Shoreline
We have driven many different back roads to finally find where you can access the rocky shoreline to find the tidelpools. The tide was going out, the rocks and sandy area exposed and our finds were terrific. As we walked we found hinding places of crabs, starfish, amemones, and various sea life. Our first find was a starfish, red in color and a big as a dinner plate, we then began to find them everywhere we looked. Not only in red, but purple, light brown and drark brown. We then found a different type in an orange shade. The best find was one that is called a sunburst. It had between 12-15 tentacles with coloring of purple, and orange-red, with a soft fuzzy feeling top in tans. I have never seen one like this before. So it was quite amazing to inspect this. Anemones were everywhere and then we began to find them in a bright florescent green. Just as big as a plate.

Entry 17 - Washington Area

Our Last week in Port Angeles This is our last week in the North and Western part of the Olympic Forest. We have driven many side roads and found interesting places along the way. There are Indiana Reservations dotting the areas and many have tribal council buildings that are everything in one, store, college, health clinic, recreation center. Many of these areas are off limits to outsiders. It is nice to know that these places exist for their use. We will not be here for the boat(Canoe) races that they have. It looks like it would be a grand event. We have seen the watercraft around the town very unique designs. We have gone back to certain areas again and again. Sometimes because we like that part or it was the only way to get to something else. Lake Cresent for example is very pristine and we could spend all kinds of time there. Many waterfall in and around the area and the Lake is such an aqua blue color that it is mesmerizing. It is quite large and the depths are 300-600feet. The Ocean coatline is different than what we are used to. Rocky and very rustic looking the beach sand is brown rather than the sugary white. It also has interesting sea life in its tidal pools that we loved exploring Trails in the woodland areas that go everywhere and crisscross each other. It is quiet and you never get tired of the scenery or wildlife. We have seen different anamials just because we have spent the time being quiet or inquisitive. Like the little mole we found inside the stump of a tree. Cute little thing all fuzzy and just as busy as could be. When you see the streams with the water running by or the wide river beds you can almost feel the force of the water that must come in the spring with the melting snow. Trees are carried down stream and tossed around like toothpicks. Now they rest along the embankments waiting for the next year's water rush. There are no complaints about the weather, It was very rainy when we first arrived. It has now become the summer with temperature in the 70's most every day. Once and awhile in the 80's.the nights cool down into the 50's. This being the driest time of the year here. The fire danger is low or moderate, however if rain does not come soon again they could be in danger of wild-fires. The area that gets the most rain is the Hoh Rain Forest. Twelve feet to be exact. Here about half of that. Our campground has been nice. It was very clean and the owners we very friendly and helpful. I would have liked a little more space to move around our site, like a table and or firepit. There were times when it got to me not to have space outside. Dave managed better than I with it. We did have a couple of deer walk through. But there were too many campers in tents that they didn't come back often. Hummingbirds and finches, did put out my feeders, but never saw if they found them or not. Have since resorted to a birdfeeder. Quail walked by everyday and now there is a covey of them. A rabbit came to munch on the grass by our camper. Have enjoyed Port Angeles with all its flower pots hung around every corner and art displays everywhere in the city. There are signs everywhere not to take driftwood, shells or disturb
sea life or nesting birds, To be careful of drifting logs and currents that are strong. No matter where you go it is always clean and you hardly see any traces of discarded trash. Even the harbor area is kept clean. There are logs in the water, but trash is picked up. We did find some writing on one bridge however it was out of the way and not where everyone would see it. The kids are around town, down by the waterfront at night, we found their meeting place. There are many parks or green areas set aside. There is a skate park being built and should open very soon. There is a saying if you want to know about things ask your hairdresser. Dave and I found a place to get a haircut and I might add this is the first time we have ever gone together. We may have used the same person, but not back to back times. Back to my point. She was very informative. It was not always as we now see it. When Port Townsend stared getting more tourist and then Sequim started attracting tourist with the Lavender Festival, Port Angeles needed to do something to beautify the area or were in serious trouble of loosing the toursits and the boats to Victoria. About 2 years ago the city council began the campaign to make this area more presentable. Seeing so many artistic people resided here that is what they drew upon and the results are what we so enjoyed. Don't know why they don't have seafood restaurants, some serve seafood, but no speciality restaurants like in St. Petersburg. Do know that there is a toxin in the water so no shell fish should be taken or eaten. Any other speciality or ethic food you want is available in abundance. Don't know how they all stay in business. We have picked blueberries, rasberries, however the blackberries need a couple of more weeks before they ripen in this area. We will probably find them down the road without much trouble.

Entry 18 - Port Angeles to Elma

August 1
Our month came to an end and we moved on To Elma, Wahington. Elma is a small town about 20 miles east of Aberdeen, Washington situated just off route 12. The drive along Rt.101 was pleasant and not very busy on Monday morning. The Route takes you along the western coast,then heads inland to the forest areas and small towns sprinkled around with rivers that flow out to the Pacific. You see many coves along the way. Logging trucks race along this stretch of roadway either taking a load of logs to a mill or going back for another load. Pull out areas are available so you don't back up traffic. We even pulled off to admire the scenery a couple of times. The waves were more active along this shoreline than in Port Angeles. Our first big city we came to was Hoquiam. It is a fair size city, but Aberdeen is larger. Hard to tell where one leaves off and the other begins. Aberdeen is also lacking common sense with construction. They tied up traffic with not having the signal lights synchronized for one thing. We waited 3 light changes for every light we went through. Then 3 lanes of traffic moved into one for sidewalk work for 3 guys and a truck. Please, they could have
moved the truck onto the sidewalk and freed up a traffic lane. This was at 11:00 am can you imagine what it would be like at 5:00pm. Might I add this was at a major intersection where route 101 and 12 split. What a mess. Our camp site is in a wide open space, we are camped back to back and close to each other. We can put out the awning and slides and have room to move around our site without stepping into the next site. Why they make them so close out here is beyond my knowledge. We actually have cable TV. which is great considering we had nothing for service in Port Angeles. Not even local news or weather. There is Wifi here in the whole town, but you don't always get service. What else is new. However towards the end of the week we actually got to use the video and voice. Some little boys we know sure enjoyed that. We miss them a lot. We found the blackberries and managed to pick 7 quarts in about 15 minutes. There were so many we didn't have to move from the spot or reach very far. Thank goodness as blackberry bushes can be very hurtful to ones body parts if you are not careful. Dave and I remarked how we used to pick the different berries as children. Don't know about him, but I didn't always enjoy the task, maybe cause it was more like a job than an adventure. We will be in this area until Aug. 8th and plan on traveling to the beach areas as well as the Quinault Rain Forest. Yeah we'll we have to go back through the malfunction of Aberdeen to get there and back here. Maybe we'll try a different time of day.

August2
Spent the day checking out this little town of Elma. Drove down some back roads and found interesting things like old apple orchards, big farms and seems like everyone has horses. It has a main street and a hugh High School and Middle School right next to each other in the center of town. The Elementary is down the road a mile or so it has been there awhile. School starts here September 1. The grocery store is call Everybodys and the restaurant is the Rusty Tractor. There is a lumber yard and a few gas stations. The restaurant has a little story to tell about how the town got it's name. One version is that if was named after a woman called Elma. Another one is it was named after a man who was the first one killed in the Civil War. The last is that the Post Office shortened
the name so that it wouldn't be confused with any other place. So Who knows how it got named. There was a bank robbery in the early 1914 that netted the bandits $4,200 dollars. They missed an additional $7,500 that was on a clerk's desk. The bad guys were caught several weeks later in Seattle, Washington. So that is the big news for this town. Found the local swimimming hole. There is a new park that was opened a coulple of years ago, and the river is just behind it. Seems everyone gets rafts and floats along the river

August 3.
First day of school for some back home. Felt sad that we were not there for a special little guy first day in kindergarten. We got pictures thanks to internet service and got to get teary-eyed over them. Another friend sent her son's pictures of the big first grader. We spent the day in the Quinault Rain Forest. Quite different than the Hoh. Not as wet and it circles Quinault Lake and the River. The road is partly paved and partly gravel and in places only wide enough for one car. There are a couple of bridges to cross and one I wasn't too sure of. Of course some people can't read and take their RVs on these roads. I often wonder how they get
around without taking out the sides of the road or the vehicle. Two sets of water-falls are along the way. Bunch Falls and Merriman Falls both are visible from the roadway and quite spectacular. There are two Big trees to stop and look at. Big Red Cedar is a short hike into the woods. It is hollowed out in the center. Big Sitka Spruce Tree is 3tenths of a mile off the roadway and next to the lake.
It is still very solid. The moss is present on some of the trees, but not as thick as in the Hoh. Ferns grow as big and plentiful too.
We left that area and found a road out to the coastline. Along the way we had lunch at Salmon Fish Hatchery. Salmon was not on the menu. The Temperature was around 83 degrees and within ten miles of the beach it dropped 20 degrees. By the time we drove onto the beach it dropped a few more. It was also very foggy and we could just barely see the waterline. Quite different shoreline than
in the Northern part. This was all hardpacked sand. A beach that you could drive on. There are some State Parks along the beach and a couple of private campgrounds that we could have gotten our rig into. So we made note of them for any return visits in the future we may want to make. Going back through Hoquiam and Aberdeen was not as bad this time. Both cities were founded in the 1880's and the timber industry is still going strong. Large saw mills are along the river and harbor of Aberdeen. Weyerhauser mill must be at least a mile long and probably a half mile wide. A complete operation from log to lumber. Tried to see if we could have a tour of any of the mills. They are not given anymore. Would have loved to have seen the operation of stripping the log to making the boards. These are not wealthy places, and there are many homes that were built for the workers some years ago. Most need TLC and revitalizing of the area is going on. The waterfront has a nice park. New stores being built. Just takes time. This is also called the Grays Harbor Area. Forgot to mention the trains. Not having heard them for the last month I almost forgot what that whistle sounded like. Now that I mention whistles,there is one that has sounded the last couple of days. More like a siren. Thought it was a Tsunami warning or a prison breakout. Finally asked someone and they informed us it used to summon the volunteer firemen and sometimes they just do a test. Just love small town America.

Sunday August 8.
Summer has found us with a couple of 90 degree days. Thank goodness for the cooling off at night. The last few days the fog didn't burn off until late afternoon so the temperatures were kept down. We leave in the morning for Toledo, Washington. We have enjoyed the small surrounding towns here. Unique in there own right. There is not a lot of wealth in the area, but somehow we tend to forget that small town America is like that. It makes you humble and thankful for so many things is life. Having come from a small town, city life is definately different in so many ways.

Entry 19 - Elma to Toledo

Monday morning found us leaving not quite so early for the 50 mile drive to Toledo, Washington. We came along Rt.12 and as usual it was back country road. Along the way we saw a rat crossing the roadway. Pretty sure we had missed him with the wheels. So when we entered the campground 50 miles down the road there was mister rat splattered across the back mud flap of the RV. Okay if your going to cause roadkill your not suppose to keep the evidence. The campground is called River Oaks RV. It is just off Interstate 5. We have no TV service or internet. We do have phones. So we will have to amuse ourselves with small town America folks. It is only for a couple of days and we will then venture along the coast in Oregon.

Our first side trip was to Mt. St. Helens. We asked the locals the best way to go and got the back road tour. The Town of Toledo along route 505 was one of the places that didn't receive damage from the eruption. It has brought some new business and improvements. As we drove along Route 504 you could tell this was all new roadway. It runs along the ridge of hills that lead up
to Mt. St. Helens. Quite specatular views and high bridges cross the landscape and evidence of the eruption is still visable in places. The Forest Service has not cleaned much away, however Weyerhauser has salvaged as much as possible and replanted since then. We stopped at several areas or lookouts along the route. Three in particular were Elk Rock, Coldwater Ridge, and Johnston Ridge. Elk Rock is high above the Tourle River Gorge. It's wide space was made as the blast forced ash, water, snow, rocks, and trees down stream. This river flowes into the Cowlitz which flows into the Columbia River and eventually 66 miles later out to the Pacific Ocean. Remenants of the trees, ash and rocks are everywhere. Twenty-five years later it still is an impressive site to behold. We did
see Elk way in the distance in the gorge a pretty good size herd. Coldwater Ridge sets above Coldwater Lake. This is one of the new lakes formed from the blast. The other lake that formed is called Castle Lake. The Ranger who gave us information about the area once owned a cabin along the shoreline of Spirit Lake. They were given a few hours to get their belongings out the day before Mt. St.
Helens blew. He told us the original road into Mt. St. Helens was along the bank of the Toutle River. It is now buried some 300 plus ft. under. The whole gorge floor rose at least that much if not more in places it is also much wider. Our Next stop was Johnston Ridge, named after the researcher who lost his life while monitoring the volcanic activity that morning. Spirit Lake is now 50ft shallower and
quite smaller and clogged with logs. It is often referred to as Log Lake. In fact it took quite some time for them to realize that it was still there and the logs were clogging it. As the ranger was giving the talk this person asks "Where are all the deer?" " I didn't see any on our drive in here." Now mind you it is about 2 in the afternoon, temperature about 80 degrees and bright and sunny. The ranger explained that if she had a pair of binoculars she could possibly view a herd of elk along the river. The deer were probably into the shade or tress and would not be about until early morning or evening. To which this person then announces. "Oh, I just thought they were still all dead." Needless to say I could hardly contain myself. The Ranger did mention that we should all congratulate ourselves for driving the longest deadend road in the state of Washington. Route 504 is just that. To stand on this ridge and see the mountain in front of you is chilling. We stayed to watch the movie and once it is done the curtain rises and there in front of you is the mountain. Really puts things into prospective of what went on. Flowers are now blooming and dead trees are laying as they have been for the last 25years and helping new growth start Ash, Elder, and Pines. Mt. St. Helens is still active and puffs of smoke were visible constantly, sometimes big billows of it. There was a section that fell in around the middle of July so they expect more.

We ventured into a town called Vader. It once was quite prosperous with nearly 3,000 residents. In the 1970's everyone moved out for better places and jobs and the town fell to 100 residents. It is slowly coming back and boast of its schools having every teacher with a masters degree and test scores that are above levels. Of course class size figures into this too. There is new building going on and there is repair of the old buildings. Each Saturday there is a farmers market and once a year a celebration. Now having been there I can't figure any of that out. Where was the last town you were in that the Post Office actually closes for a one hour lunch. Not to mention that the Fire station, Police, and Town Hall are all in one metal building. The Jail was an old white building that looked like a house. The two stores were the old West Front and closed. Okay not to make fun we wish them great success in rebuilding.

We have enjoyed our time in Washington State in some way we would like to stay, but we still have other things to see and do. Will say that no matter what road we were on be it back road, highway or gravel there was not one bad road to be found. They take very good care of the road system in Washington.

As we left the state we did here that on Friday Night August 12th about 6:00pm there was an earthquake and an erruption at Mt. St. Helens. Sorry we didn't feel or see anything. It gets very foggy at night and doesn't lift until the afternoon.

Entry 20 - Back to the Oregon Coast

Oregon Coast August 13, 2005
Saturday morning we ventured down I-5 leaving the state of Washington. We filled up the motorhome with great shock at prices of $2.79 per gallon seeing we didn't need to do that in nearly 6 weeks time. Our connecting route was route 30. It travels the Columbia River Gorge from Longview, Washington and then you cross over the Columbia River into Oregon then all the way to Astoria. Small towns along the way and the usual pull off so you don't hold up traffic. I was excited to be going to Astoria knowing that this was the last part of the Lewis and Clark Journey. Some places it tells you that they were on the Washington side of the Columbia River and others say it was the Astoria, Oregon Area. I'm sure that the expedition had been in both areas as there was no designation of one state or another at that time. I was a little disappointed in the size and the activity of Astoria. Knowing that growth is everywhere does not help ones mind when you expect something different. There was a celebration going on, parade, huge car show, sailing regatta. No matter where you went there was something. Fort Stevens and Fort Clasop are more of the historical aspects of what I envisioned. It was better to leave this busy area. We then joined up with Rt. 101 which is the coastal road. Seaside, Cannon Beach, Rockaway Beach, on to Tallamook and into Netarts where we now are. Just as we saw it 2 months ago, only it is not raining but the fog is still around most of the nights and morning. Seals are on the sand bar when the tides are out. Everyone is fishisng, crabbing or digging for shellfish. Guess we better get into the groove. We are only 6 miles south of Tillamook, Oregon home of Tillamook Cheese Company. Quite an operation going on there. Dave says he couldn't imagine doing a job like a robot day in day out. We give them credit if we had tried a production line it would have look like and old I Love Lucy show. Where she is in the chocolate factory. You can all smirk, but these employees were very good at their jobs. Nothing got by them or backed up. Tillamook also has great ice cream. We had to sample that naturally. There is another cheese factory called Blue Heron, this is a french varity, we stopped there and found the winery that goes with the cheese. We would have had a few samples, but there were so many people you couldn't get near the counter. So instead we found a roadside vendor selling oysters and bought some. We put them on the grill when we got home. Oh, so good that way. Kind of like when we go to St. Augustine and get them there. Had planned on writing about catching some dungeoness crabs, but we sort of got sidetracked with Dave. We had to find an emergency room for him. Seems he had a kidney stone that decided to move around. For those of you who haven't had one, these are quite painful and require strong pain medication. Thank goodness we were close to a hospital and he received great care in the emergency room. He is now recovering slowly. He'll be good to go in a couple of days. Our first rainy day since July 8th is today. It is also our anniversary. Fog and rain are suppose to lift by the afternoon so we set out for Cape Meares. We could barely make out the parking lot (Dajavu) We headed to Garibaldi. This is very much a fishing village township. There is an old steam engine train ride. However it only operates on the weekends. There is a restaurant that was highly recommended to us so we set out to find it. It was closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Three for three. We found another restaurant and had a grouper sandwich. Not anything like the ones we have made. On the menu was a side order of onion rings. Are you ready for this at a cost of $6.95. Yeah we had to look at that several time ourselves. Must have some pretty high rated onions in this town. We didn't bother to find out. Maybe they really don't like making them. Who knows. Seeing that the fog was not about to subside any time soon we headed back to Tillamook and found the sausage and jerky store. Back at Netarts Campground the tide going out and booked our boat for tomorrow. Will see if we can catch any dungeness crabs. Later in the evening the fog did lift so off we went to Cape Meares. Beautiful view of the cliffs, and wide expanse of the Pacific Ocean. It was close to dusk so we walked down and saw the lighthouse. Pretty nice and worth going to look at. There are all kinds of birds that have rookeries on the cliffs and rocks below. Cormorant, Puffins, and also sea lions are a common sight. Caves along the shoreline and in the distance you can see the Arch Rocks off the beach at Oceanside. We went in search of pizza for dinner and ended up back in Tillamook. Thank goodness it is only six miles away. Pizza was worth the drive.

We rented our boat and got our license to catch the crabs. We had three traps and that kept us very busy for two hours. The seals were very active and I think they were eating the bait faster than the crabs were crawling in to get it. You have this basket that has fish remains(bait) tied to the bottom. A long rope attached to the basket and a buoy attached to that. You get very tired from hauling in the rope, wet, and the water is cold. You can only keep the males. So one must check not only the size, but the sex. We got many crabs in our traps, but most had to be released. We came back with a few, the limit was 12 each. After they were cooked and cleaned we were very thankful that we didn't each catch our limit. They are very good eating, but the cleaning took us longer than the catching. Guess we don't want to be a crab fisherman either. . Dungeoness Crabs are very expensive on the menu and now we know why.

The fog seems to be staying so we decided to head north back on 101 to see some of the coastline if it does lift. We traveled up to Oswald State Park. You walk about a half mile to the beach where everyone surfs or swims. Burrr Cold water. It is Friday and we don't think anyone works in the afternoon. The fog had lifted and we enjoyed the area. We ate lunch and slowly drove back south stopping when we saw something of interest. Most of the time it would be clear and then you would be shrouded in the fog. We stopped in some of the coastal towns and looked around in the shops or drove to find the beach. Sometimes the beach is sandy
and other times it is rocky with tide pools. We ended our day in Garibaldi with dinner on the pier. All you can eat fish and chips and at a seniors discount too. I knew getting older was good for something.

Of course Saturday was the clear and bright sunny day we had been waiting for. We went to Cape Lookout and to the Sand Hill area. There are many campsites with no hook-ups and that is okay for a day or two. Sand Hill area is sand dunes and lots of ATV's running them. It is an area that was left from the testing grounds during WWll. Across the street is an area that is being left for nature to take back and is under experimental study. We will leave on Sunday and head a little further south to Lincoln City. Our neighbors at Netarts RV park are originally from Oregon and have moved to Las Vegas. They have a granddaughter that is visiting them and has adopted Dave as grandpa too. She is very cute and visitis with us often. We miss our girls and their little boys. Any of you that want to check out the web site for this campground it is www.netartsbay.com. Our next destination is Coyote RV park in Lincoln City, Oregon. www.coyote-rock.com.

Entry 21 - Lincoln City

August 21,2005
Today was our moving day. Was a little sad to leave Netarts really liked that area and Tillamook. Tillamook is very country and Dairy is their largest business. Netarts is fishing, crabbings and shell fish, clams mostly. Oysters are not allowed to be harvested because of a toxin. They are usually farm raised and harvested and sold by private industry. As we move about 50 miles farther south will be looking forward to what is available in the Lincoln City Area. We already know that the Willimet Valley is the wine county. So many wines to taste, but someone has to do it. The area is very busy as we found out, a lot of people from Portland and Salem come to this area to escape the heat of the city. What heat. It is still in the 50's at night and the 70's during the day. Not looking forward to going inland anytime soon. On the other hand I wouldn't mind being warm for a few days. Lincoln City is larger than Tillamook. The City has done quite a bit to keep the area friendly for tourist. There are beach access and parking lots or spaces to leave your vehicle. There is one place to drive onto the beach, we chose not to as the drop off was a bit much and the tide was on the way in. There's that tide factor again. Thought we had finally got it down. Have to start over again. Cayote Rock Rv is about 3/4 of a mile south of the city on the Siletz River. Mostly everyone here goes fishing for Salmon. The Sea Lions (I have now come to call them river rats) come up into this river chasing the salmon which doesn't make the fishermen all to happy. It is also a tidal river, so that makes it what we would call brackish. A lot of logging has gone on around this area, but that has somewhat changed in recent years due to the owls population being wiped out. That's a sore subject to be discussed with the locals here. The areas along the Pacific Ocean are cliffs, sandy, and some rocky areas. We found a beach area where the rivers comes out to a jetty and the beach has a nice access to it. There are several logs on the beach and the locals set fires in them on the beach at night. Quite a neat thing to do. Guess they are not really suppose to light the logs on fires, but no one seems to bother them. The sea lions lounge on the jetty just off this beach waiting for the fish or salmon to come by. They also wait for the fishermen to bait their hooks or set the crab traps. That way the sea lions can grab the catch as they reel them in or steal the bait. There is a state park that is just off route 101 here that is called Devils River. Its claim to fame is that it is the shortest river in North America. Probably so as from one side to the other is about 500 feet. There is a small tent campground there. We have done the tourist thing and checked out the shops along the main route. There is also an outlet mall where we found Harry and David's, Columbia Sport Wear, Wine and Cheese, and just about anything
that you would find at Ellenton. There are a fair number of antique shops too. They are interesting somewhat. Kite shops are everywhere too. Flying kites on the beach is big business along the shoreline in the Northwest. Route 101 is under construction at night. Repaving it. We are glad to see that being done as parts certainly need it. For all those people who advised us not to take our motorhome on route 101 we have found no problems. It has been just fine. We read articles about traffic being slowed down and all the hassles, but we have not caused or seen many. We try to travel from spot to spot during the week and let the locals have the roadways on the weekends. They are quite busy then. Most of the small coastal towns are surviving as the arts and the people who have these talents have set up shop in the older buildings. They seem to be surviving. We took the car in for another oil change. Nice place called Oil Can Henry's. They were quick and reasonable. Dave has admired all the glass work in all the shops. There is a foundry open Wednesday through Sunday. We went there today and Dave has found a new career in glass making. We will pick up his project
tomorrow. You will have to check the web site for the Photo's. By the way his glass globe came out just fine. We will have to find a place to display it in the motorhome. Does this mean something has to go out now. Probably, will find something to unload. We heard about another storm in South Florida. Will keep ourselves posted to its position and where it might go. Someone needs to put up the fence down there and keep these things away. We ventured or tried to venture to a suspension bridge at Drift Creek Falls. Would you believe they have it closed. The roadway is under repair and you can't get access to it. We opted to walk one of the closed logging road. The blackberry bushes are everywhere just starting to ripen. Seeing I have no more room for anything in the freezer we have to just leave them be. As we walked and climbed Dave found a couple of dollars laying around. Too far away from the Gorge for it to have anything to do with D.B. Cooper. We saw a few animal tracks and places where they may have bedded down, but no wildlife. Still not a whole lot or birds. Some ravens and crows, seagull, terns and other shoreline varities. We decided to head to the beach after our walk and see what the tourist were doing. We had lunch at a restaurant called Mo's. It was okay, but nothing to really rave about. Dave tried an Oyster sandwich, What he got were 3 very large, lightly breaded and fried oysters on a hamburger bun. Tasty and tender, different that what he expected. I had clam chowder in a bread bowl. It was tasty too. As we walked along the beach looking for agaite Dave found a very nice Buck Knife. I would say it was his very lucky day. On Saturday we drove a little further south to Depot Bay. Very nice scenery and you get to see cliffs, beaches, coves, rocks, caves, all along the way. Very impressisve views. We pulled into a parking spot along the main street and spotted a boat with a few people on. It was a whale watching vessel and just as we got to the wall we did see a whale just going under. The reports are now saying that starting on Monday the whale sighting will be more frequent. On Monday we will be moving 15 miles down the road to Beverly Beach State Park where we will meet up with our friends from North Carolina. We will be close to the beach so will be able to spend quite some time looking at the water for these whales. Yes dear friends we are slowing making our way southward. Sunday we spent some time getting ready for our big move down the street. We also are getting rain this afternoon. Thats okay we don't mind a day of rest here or there. We are keeping our eyes and thoughts on the hurricane. Our prayers are with the people in Louisiana, and Mississippi.

Entry 22 - Beverly Beach

Our big move was all of 15 miles to Beverly Beach State Park. It was raining when we left Lincoln City, however it was not raining when we reached our new campsite. We set up and decided to see what the surf looked liked. Discovered that it was a little rough and a dead sealion was washed ashore. Quite big in size, Don't know what happened to it but will try and find out. We went into Newport which was about 6 miles south of Beverly Beach. Found a Wal-mart even though it wasn't a super one. Also a grocery store so we got some supplies for a few days. As we waited for the arrival of Don and Rosie, we watched TV with unbelieving eyes the destruction of New Orleans, Biloxi, Gulfport. We have prayed and wished for fast relief for these people. Lets hope the last few hurricanes have taught them something about getting to the survivors quickly. Don and Rosie arrived sooner than expected and we had dinner and caught up on some of the things we have managed to miss since our last conversation or meeting. Tuesday we went to Depoe Bay. This supposedly is where they kept the killer whale that was rescued from Mexico and was released into the wild from here. There is a whale watch going on now and the building now houses information about whale migrations. We drove further north to Boiler Bay and spotted a gray whale just off shore. It came into one of the coves and we spent nearly an hour watching it. How fantastic that was to watch this huge animal so close to the shore chasing and eating its meal of shrimp. The shrimp that they are eating are so microscopic. We went next to Lincoln City and had lunch at the beach and showed Don and Rosie the sea lions just off shore on the jetty. Back to Depoe Bay and into Newport. We found an ice cream shop so Don could have his fix for the day.

Wednesday, August 31
Don and Rosie went to Portland and we stayed at the campground. We went to the beach but the surf was very rough and watched the waves crashing over the rocks. They were also burying the sealion on the beach above the high water line. We inquired what they thought happened to the animal and they said most that get washed up are shot by fishermen. So this one probably was too. They must release the gasses in the body before it is buried so it decomposes faster. They tried several things to puncture the hide and nothing was working. Even a harpoon wasn't pentrating the skin. The backhoe had a claw and it couldn't get into the hide. Don't know what they finally did as we left them to the job. Found a lighthouse and decided we would explore that instead. Yaquina Head Light House has been in operation since 1873, in 1980 Congress established this site as a Natural Area. This reclaimed rock quarry now has an intertidal pool. There are sea lions, and shorebirds along the rocks. The intrepretive center houses a wheelhouse of an historic ship and a full scale replica of the latern that is in the lighthouse. The residents house is no longer there. We will leave this area tomorrow and travel inland to Grants Pass. We will miss the rugged coastline and cool weather. Everyone has told us that it has been hot inland so as much as I want to feel warmer I'm not sure I want to be roasting.

September 1, 2005
Today is Thursday and when we left the coast it was 48 degrees at 8:30. We drove south to NewPort where we headed east and inland along route 20. This is a curvy road, but well paved and two lanes. Small towns and pulloffs. Woodlands are very dry. The fire danger is extreme here and rain has not been around for sometime. This is the dry time of the year here. Seems strange to see everything turning brown. Up until now everything has been fairly green. We went by a few sod farms, hay fields, and such. In the beginning we saw these being planted now we are seeing them harvested. We stopped for fuel and diesel was $3.09 another sticker shock. Sure hope this gets better soon for everyone. Was also surprised that the temperature was close to 90 degrees. Talk about a heat wave. Our campground is very nice, but you can have no campfires. We do have room to sit outside and it did cool off some in the evening so we could.

Friday 2nd
We drove around the city to familiarize ourselves with the area. Coffee shops are everywhere. In the city there are bear statues on nearly every corner. They are decorated as bakers, artists, musicians,with painted flowers or jewels, Very unique. These statues are then auctioned off later this month and the money goes to charities. We went for a tour at a company called Fire Mountain Gems
and Bead Company. They have been in business since 1973 and in recent years have expanded with all the jewelery making going on. The tour was very nice and even though there were only 4 of us they explained their company and showed us how they design the jewelry, and the adds for making their catalog,. When a photo appears in the catalog they tell you what you need to purchase to make
the item. They have a web site as well as a helpline available for their clients Quite a neat operation, different than what we were expecting. The Campground we are staying at is called Moon Mountain. It is on a dead end street, at the end of this street is a nice park named Tom Pierce Park there are two host, but no camping allow. You can walk or fish along the Rogue River or picnic in the park area. Lots of picnic tables, grills, restrooms and a playground for children. We have noticed that the State of Oregon has set aside plenty of green area for park for the enjoyment of everyone.

Saturday 3rd
This was our rest day, to catch up on cleaning, laundry or that nap time. We did go to a couple of stores. Okay it was a super Wal-Mart and Radio Shack.There is also a Sears, JC Penneys and a few others. It wasn't quite as warm today and the evening is cooling off. We also found the Riversidepark where they have the music on Tuesday nights. Might have to pack our dinner and try it out. Found the Hellsgate River Rafting Company. So will try and get the Jet Boat ride later this week. We have decided to let the crowds have at it for the long holiday weekend. Not sure with the fuel prices rising how many extra side trips we will be doing, but the
schools will start here on Tuesday so the weekday crowd will be less. Grants Pass is a nice city easy to get around in. It is also very clean and well cared for. We have walked the streets and looked in the shops and admired the views of the hillsides or mountains. The weather is cooler now and we can notice a difference. The trees are beginning to turn yellow and lose their leaves. The grass is in dire need of rain and is very brown without any watering going on. The roadways are well maintained and surprises us that even the backroads are in good shape. Comparing this to Washington, there is quite a difference in the way the logging was done. There are new laws now in place. Not many Oregonians agree or like them, but it will make a difference.

Sunday. Sept. 4
The morning was a cool 48 degrees. Quite chilly seeing we have been running the AC since we arrived here. Decided to brave the roadways and go to The Oregon Caves. It is a National Monument. Did learn something today at the caves. So here is your trivia question. What is the difference between a National Park and a National Monument? These caves were quite different than others we have been to. They have stalactites and stalagmites,cave popcorn, moonmilk, and ghosts formations caused by mineral deposits, They were not quite as big or as many, but the caverns were quite large and we climbed about 500 stairs, some very vertical up and then down. The temperature stays a constant 40 degrees year round. This cave was found back in the 1870's by a Elijah Davidson who was out hunting. He had killed a black tail deer. His dog, Bruno chased a black bear into a den that opened up into these caves. Not wanting to lose his dog he followed him into the area and soon he had no matches to light so eventually he ended up crawling out along the stream that is in the caves. His dog soon followed. The bear was enticed out by the deer's carcass and the man shot it. Well that's the story that is told and I just condensed it. At the cave's exit we decided to walk the longer trail back to the visitors center and in doing so came across some black tail deer. One was a fawn just losing its spots. It was worth the climb and the extra walk just to see them. Okay for those of you who want to know the answer. A National Monument is appointed by a president. A national park is designated by Congress. We did see a butterfly today, a lizzard and a mountain jay wanted us to share lunch with it. We were good we didn't feed the wildlife. We were right about the traffic there was definately a waiting line to go into the caves as we were leaving. There was a festival going on in Kirby, Oregon. We didn't stop but should have as up the traffic was stopped for some time due to an accident. Found a road-side stand and purchased fresh picked corn, tomatoes, squash, and watermellon.

For all you Harry and David people out there you would like this place. In Medford, Oregon is the original Harry and David's. The Bear Creek Plant factory tour is worth the time and this is a huge business. Remnants of the original pear orchard are out front of the factory along with the rose garden. The roses come from Jackson and Perkins which is a sister company also located in Medford. Our tour took us to the making of popcorn for their famous moosetracks mix. The processing of chocolate to make truffles is quite an ordeal. Workers wear two pair of gloves so as not to leave prints on the delicate item. We watched to process of the stuffing, stacking, wrapping, bowting(ribbons) and boxing for shipping the baskets, and the towers sets. Seems that the boxes the items are packaged in are as famous and wanted as the food items are. For those of you who shop at Costco you will find Harry and David items for sale during the holidays. This is the first time they will be offered at another place besides their own stores. We saw tahe giant boxes being assembled for delivery. Many of the departments were at lunch when we were there but we still could see hat the jobs were and the operation of the factory lines. They take care of their workers and strongly suggest they exercise during the breaks and after lunch. Good idea to keep stress and accidents down. They can also join any gyn for $15.00 per month. They employ about 2300 people and will hire another 6,000 for the holiday season starting in October. There are adds on TV stations here now for job opportunities. They will even give them free passes for bus service to get them to and from work. Day care is also available. There is a list of Child Care providers and the company checks them out. Pay starts $7.50 an hour. Of course after you go to the factory one must then go to their store. We shopped and sampled our way through-out. They are much richer for our visit and we are poorer.
On our drive back we found the Del Rio Winery in Gold Hills. This is the largest winery we have found yet One Thousand acres. This was an old stage stop and hotel along the Applegate Trail during the 1800's. In the 1940's there were two covered bridges that crossed the river that cost $1.00 to cross guess you paid it or swam across. Wine wasn't bad either.

Knowing that we had a drive to Crater Lake we set off early. We got off I-5 and found the town of Gold Hills. There was a bank robbery here yesterday. Guess they figured if it was named after gold there might be something here. Gold Hill is a small town and if you blink fast could possibly miss it. That explains why we missed the turn off we needed for our route. We ended up in Medford and found the road we needed along with a few extra miles we didn't. We drove along route 62 which is a state and national forest on each side of the road. We stopped at a park along the way and took pictures of a small waterfall and river. Our next stop was at the visitors center at Crater Lake. It was actually the original housing for the rangers there. There is now a new center and housing being built. At the top or rim of the Lake we were just spell bound by the sheer beauty of it. The colors were so blue, which it is famous for, and around the edges were a green. The depth is over 1,000 feet and the temperature stays in the 40's. It never freezes even though there is snow there in the winter months. There is a boat ride on the lake, but you hike one and half miles down and the climb back up is not for the weak. There is an Island called Wizzard Island so named because its shape is that of a wizzard's hat. The other island is Phantom, because it looks like a ghostly ship with its mast sticking out above the water. The drive around the rim is about 33 miles and we stopped often to marvel at the sheer beauty of this crater. Our drive back to the campground was shorter as we found the right route. At the late hour dinner was at a restaurant. Who wants to cook when restaurants are handy.

Sunday Sept. 11. Monday Sept. 12
We found in one of our books a road less traveled. It took us along route 33 which follows the Rogue River and the canyon. Outside of the town of Merlin we found a campground call Indian Mary Park. This was part of an original Indian Reservation. Just 40 acres at that time now it is 65 acres. We made note of just in case we ever come back. Down the road is Hellgate Canyon made up of cliffs and overhanging rocks, down below we found people fishing. The Salmon fall run is beginning. As we drove along we found many areas where you could camp and fish. Rafters were coming down the river and we stopped to watch them navigate the rapids. Route 33 is under construction so we had to find another road back to Grants Pass. We stopped at a BLM information area that gave us a route over a mountain. It was only 27 miles and many hours later. Mountain roads are very curvy and steep. You also have to allow time to OOOOh and AHHH to. Checked out some remote campsites as we treversed over Onion Mountain.This brought us back to route 199 south of Grants Pass.

Monday Sept 12
Our ride down the Rogue River Late in the afternoon we took the Hellgate Jet Boat Ride from Grants Pass to the Hellgate Canyon. This was a 36 mile round trip with a dinner stop at the OK Corral restaurant. The restaurant is owned and operated by Hellgate, You can not have dinner there unless you purchase the dinner cruise.