Goodbye, Colorado
We left Colorado for 2013 heading NE on I-76, picking up I-80 east at the Nebraska border. After spending a night in central Nebraska, we traveled across Iowa camping near Iowa City.



Sibling Stop
We stopped in eastern Iowa where my brother and two sisters drove down to meet us for dinner. It had been three years since our last get together, so it was great catching up.



Good Friends
Our next stop was to visit good friends who live NW of Chicago. All was fun, but the Kids especially liked the boat ride. Even though we explained the concept of fresh water to the Pups, Mitzy continued to hunt for dolphins. :’>







Door County
We had planned on heading down to the Homer Glen area to visit some other good friends. However, the weather forecast was not favorable for us going around the bottom of Lake Michigan. Hence, we headed north, stopping for two nights in Door County--the Wisconsin peninsula between Lake Michigan and Green Bay. We had a wonderful time driving/walking around this very pretty area.







Mackinaw Morning
From Door County we headed west to the town of Green Bay, and then north into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, taking Highway 2 east along Lake Michigan. After crossing the Mackinaw Bridge, we set up camp in Mackinaw City. The next morning, the pre-dawn sky was the rusty color of old trucks. I grabbed my camera, a couple of lenses, and Gorrilapod to take some pics. Just me and the seagulls.

Here are a few shots taken in pre-dawn light and a 30-second video clip.













Back to the Sleeping Bear
From Mackinaw City we headed south on I-75, at Gaylord we took 32 east and then snaked over to 131 via County Road C42. We took 72 west to Empire, and then north to D.H. Day Campground.



It was great to be back! We spent two months camp hosting here last year, and have returned to assume our old role. All of our previous camp-host friends from last year are here, as well as most of the professional and fun campground staff. Looking forward to a great stay.

Jan’s Old Signs
Here are two old signs that Jan selected and I shot.





Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks I shot along the way.











See you next week.

Tags: Colorado, Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Old Signs, Old Trucks, Nature Photography

On to Breckinridge
From Highline Lake State Park, we rambled down to I-70 and headed east on one of the most picturesque interstates in the entire country. We arrived with snow-topped mountains surrounding us as we camped at 9,100 feet and 34 degrees.

Colorado Trail Hike
Adjoining the campground is a segment of the Colorado Trail, so at dawn one morning I hiked the steep trail for a two-hour round trip.

Return to Denver
Monday it was back to Denver, where we set up camp at Cherry Creek Park.

Quick Trip to Chicago
Tuesday morning I flew to Chicago where I spent most of the week working with a good client.

Jan’s Old Signs
Here are two old signs that Jan selected and I shot.





Slug Bug
While hunting old trucks we ran across this old VW bug.



Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks with both rust and style.











See you next week.

Tags: Old Cars, Old Trucks, Old Signs, Colorado

Salida to Buena Vista
If you like the outdoors, the area in Colorado we have been staying (Salida/Buena Vista) is just about Nirvana: rafting, hiking, paddling, kayaking, hot springing, goat milking, bingoing, mountain viewing, mountain climbing, duck racing, jeep off-roading, ATVing, fly fishing, and more can all be done via the Arkansas River, National Forests, and really big mountains. The people are colorful as well. Here is a pic of a couple of locals who stopped for “breakfast” at the Coyote Cantina, a joint we frequented.



Duck Race Revenge
Our campground sponsors an annual Memorial Day Duck Race and it is a blast. The rubber ducks navigate a narrow, skinny creek that goes right behind our RV site.

Now, Jan and I are no stranger to duck racing, having been involved in the Calusa Pine Island Duck Race for 15 years. During that time we have bought hundreds of tickets and never won squat. Here at Chalk Creek we both bought one ticket each, and I placed third and Jan won! Yes, young man, persistence does pay off! Here is a shot of Jan the winner and a few more.









PaddleFest
While we were there, Buena Vista hosted its annual PaddleFest.

Paddling Pups
Here are some pics of pups that attended, and one shot of Austie taking his first kayak paddle.











Hamster Balls
As part of the Paddlefest fundraising, there was a “hamster ball” concession, where kids (or anyone) could step into a plastic bag the size of a huge ziplock, have it blown up with air to form a ball, then be pushed into a pool of water and try to run like a hamster on a treadmill. Here is grandson Austie giving it a try.





Move to Crawford
After the Memorial Day crowds had dispersed, on Tuesday we broke camp and motored our way south from Nathan on 285 South, turning west on U.S. 50 at Poncha Springs, stopping at Gunnison for subs, continuing on through the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Instead of following the most direct route, we picked up 92, going west and north along the West Elk Scenic Byway and the east side of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The mountain roads where as crooked as a politician in an election year. Snowy mountains, gurgling creeks, greening hills, and black and deep canyons bordered our way the last 30 miles until we set up camp at Crawford State Park.













Black Canyon East Side
Late afternoon we drove the dozen miles to the east side of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park where we took a short hike and then drove the park road stopping at overlooks. This is one impressive gorge. We’d been to the west side twice before, but this side is superior--great views and very little traffic.



Black Canyon Hike
Early one morning we drove to the North Rim Ranger station to hike four miles at 7,700 feet on the North Vista Trail, going to Exclamation Point and back. On the way we saw deer and elk. The muddy trail took us through meadows and woods with several vistas overlooking the canyon. We shared the experience with bunnies, chips, meadow larks, magpies, and falcons as we wandered among lupine, larkspur, early paint, cannis, spring beauty, false lupine, and flowering cactus. There were no other humans in sight.













Foxes at Play
On the ride back to camp, we ran across six young foxes playing alongside the road. I was lucky enough to get a few shots of these playful pups as we watched them romp for a couple minutes.



Back to Highline Lake State Park
Two years ago we camp hosted at Highline Lake State Park about 30 miles northwest of Grand Junction, close to the Utah border. While there, we made great friends with our camp host colleagues and wanted to see them again. To get there, we decided to once again take the road less traveled, taking 65 North, the Grand Mesa Skyway.







After setting up camp at Highline, we reminisced over dinner and s’mores over a campfire. The next morning, I hiked the trail around Highline Lake along with my small buddies, Mitzy and Jerry.







Jan’s Old Signs
Here are two old signs that Jan selected and I shot.





Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks from Colorado.











See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Colorado, Buena Vista, Crawford, Gunnison National Park, Black Canyon, Highline Lake Park, Old Trucks, Old Signs

If you like to hunt and shoot old trucks, it is great to be in Colorado! Forty-eight new beauties have been added to the collection this week. See the last section of this blog post for a few of the distinguished old girls.

Over 7,700 feet in elevation, the mornings started cool in the low 40s, working up to high 60s/low 70s later in the day. We had an excellent variety of weather: calm and sunny, cold and windy, snowy and sleety, and thundering and lightning. Here is a view from our campground and a view of fishermen right behind our coach.





Sunday Truck Hunting Day
I took Sunday off, and by 8:15 a.m. Jan, the Pups, and I were out the door and in the car hunting old trucks and other good photo ops. We went west to Poncha, and then took highways, scenic byways, gravel and dirt roads north, east, west, south, and back, hard on the scent of rusted steel.



Scenics
Our constant guardians, the Collegiate Peaks, were always in the background, and their snowy tops combining with pillowy clouds and perfect light made for some pretty scenic photos.





We eventually made our way up to highway 24 and took that east, stopping off at the Antero Reservoir.

Antero Reservoir
The Antero Reservoir is deep blue water surrounded by mountains. Wrapping our coats up tight, we got out to enjoy the view. Here is that handsome devil Jerry breathing in the scenery.



Hartsel Lunch Break
At noon we stopped for lunch at the best place in Hartsel (the only place in Hartsel) and were pleasantly surprised at the quality of our meals (Jan had the burrito and I had the house special). Here is a shot of Cindy, the bartender/waitress/hostess/busboy/cashier (however, I don’t think she cooked).



Monday Mountain Thunder
I worked all day Monday, but late afternoon it was time for a family drive. We took the back roads and found more old trucks. In the outskirts of Salida, I took a few shots. Here is a fun one of a big smokestack from a smelting plant long closed down.



National Forest
After exploring the town, we took a county road that turned into a forest road--left and right, down and up, over and back in the San Isabel National Forest. We found the remnants of an old town called Turret and drove through blowing snow to view the mountains being engulfed in dark clouds lit by the occasional bolt of lightning. Every few minutes the almost-spooky quiet was interrupted by thunder that started as a moaning growl, grew to a rhythmic rumble, and then crescendoed into an angry bellow that commanded both respect and a little fear to all within earshot. Here the term “awesome” does perfectly apply.



Afternoon Trips
Cottonwood Pass
One late-afternoon family excursion took us up to Cottonwood Pass. At over 12,000 feet, spring had not yet sprung, and there was enough snow to fool you into thinking it was still February. Here are a couple pics from this trip.





Critters
Here are a few shots of pups and other critters.









Old Signs
Here are three old signs that Jan selected and I shot.







Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks (the others I shot are in the Old Truck Reserve for future weeks when the hunting is scarce).











See you next week.

Tags: Colorado, Old Trucks, Antero Reservoir, Hartsel, San Isabel National Forest, Cottonwood Pass, Old Signs, Old Signs

Baseball Game
Sunday was a “boys-only” Colorado Rockies game. They lost to the Rays, but the weather was pleasant, the hot dogs were tasty, and our third-base view was a fun location for photography.









Quick Trip to New Orleans
I had a quick trip early in the week to New Orleans were I facilitated the U.S. pilot of a new engagement. Smart, fun group--should be a great project.

Redheads and Bubbles
Of course, we had a few times during the week to enjoy the grandkids. Here are pics of Austie and friends going red, Natty in the tub, Natty ‘fessing up, and Natty hanging with Charlie the Pug. And, here is a comic pic of Aaron doing some deep reflection on his future.

















Prairie Dog Hike
Late in the week the frost disappeared, the temperature rose, and the skies transitioned from rainy gray to vibrant blue. Jan and I took our first 2013 hike in Colorado, traipsing four miles among gentle hills with first spring flowers making their debut poking up reds, whites, and violets against the brown of the earth. Birds of all denominations sang for us and the brilliant plumage of bluebirds darted across the sky like smoke in a breeze.



The hike highlight, though, was a solid mile path right through the most impressive prairie dog town I have ever seen! Well-fed prairie dogs of varying sizes and hues greeted us at the rim of their dens chirping out their intruder alarm. Many times we were within 15 feet before these guardians of the plains scampered down their holes. In case you did not know, our rat terrier, Jerry, loves prairie dogs. He has leapt out of our car window to get close to these large, mobile gophers.

As Jerry tugged at his leash like a sailor weighing anchor, he sometimes drug Jan right to the top of the varmints’ dens. Standing proudly erect like a marine out of boot camp, a broad smile etched on his chiseled face as ripples of pleasure moved up and down his well-muscled physique. I don’ think life gets any better than this for a rat terrier. ☺



Hunting Old Trucks
Late one afternoon we piled into the car and headed east in a search of old trucks. There were dark clouds all around us as we drove through the occasional rain shower and watched a stray bolt or two of lightning dance across the horizon--perfect weather for photography! Here are a couple of old trucks from our hunt, plus a cool old truck sign.







See you next week.

Tags: Colorado, Colorado Rockies Baseball, Old Trucks, prairie dogs

Fun Time, Full Time
Now that the house is behind us…



…we took off Sunday morning, heading out on the 2,000-mile journey north from St. James City, through Atlanta, Nashville, St. Louis, Kansas City, and on to Parker. Colorado, Friday afternoon as planned.









For the most part, our first full week of full-timing was uneventful with the usual road construction and a couple detours. However, we did experience the coldest, snowiest May day for 107 years across Kansas.



Coach Cat
Our efforts to find Chico, our 15-year-old, Mexican-born cat, a new home proved unsuccessful (many thanks to those of you who attempted to find him a home), so we brought him with us. I had envisioned cat-dog fights, hours of endless meowing, and unanticipated hassles. I could not have been more wrong. Chico adapted to coach life like a goat in a landfill. He now acts like he owns the place!



Birthday Bash
We arrived in time celebrate both grandkids’ birthdays. Here is a shot of Austin playing with his buddies, and Natty and her Mom.







Old Trucks
Here are a couple of old trucks for your review.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, pet photography, Old Trucks

Quick Trip to DC
I had a super three-day session with a great client in DC. While there, a record was set for the highest temperature in 90 years (94 degrees) and the highest pollen count (at least I think it had to be a record)--there is a downside to cherry blossoms, you know.

Around the Island
It is getting quieter on the Island as the Snowbirds fly (or drive) back up North. Here are pics of a staring osprey, a beautiful weed, and Mitzy in the meadow.







Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Easter Eggs
Easter Sunday started with a traditional egg hunt, and our four searchers (Austin, Natalie, Mitzy, and Jerry) emerged victorious, finding all 39 of the hidden eggs. Natalie put on her new kimono in honor of the holiday.







Watching Whales
A family trip to SeaWorld was a delight in the deep, with all sorts of aquatic action and marine mischief. My favorite is always the Shamu Show. The grandkids and their parents liked it all.







Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Sea World, Old Trucks

Shakedown Sortie
In anticipation of our upcoming Motoring Across America, we took the motorhome up to Apopka (NE of Orlando). Everything seems to be running great except for the small anticipated issues of a house that goes 70 miles an hour. Our campsite was comfortable and the campground had all the basics (cable TV, WiFi, pool, playground, and so on). A big plus is that it is five minutes away from relatives.



















Doing Disney
Our son, Aaron, and our daughter-in-law, Kelly, brought almost six-year-old Austin and almost one-year-old Natalie to Disney to take in all the action at the Mouse. Grandma and Grandpa did a day at Magic Kingdom and a day at Epcot (with a day of recovery in between). I have never seen so many strollers and Big Ears in my life! Everyone had a wonderful time.













Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Walt Disney World, Camping, Old Trucks

Around the Island
A busy week on the Island with the Snow Birds in full swing and Island happenings as plentiful as billboards in Georgia.

New housing is finally up this year as the recovery slowly progresses. All is well.









Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Pine Island, Old Trucks

Around the Island
Out on walks, we discovered a Muscovy duck and her brood, and the Kids were fascinated by a Gopher Tortoise ( I was able to capture her as she entered her den).





Quick Trip to Chicago
I flew to Chicago to give a keynote speech, however, I had a few hours to walk around the city to take a few shots. If I got bored working in my room, I just opened the curtain to watch the crane operator--he was at eye level. Now there is a guy with a fun job!











Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.













Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Hot and muggy then cool and chilly…the winter weather patterns in Florida vacillated this week like a teenager contemplating a first date. I write this Sunday morning listening to the patter of raindrops on the metal roof--a soothing rhythm that offers reassurance that nature is still aligned with the universe.

On a less philosophical note, it was a busy week on the Island doing lots of writing/developing/reviewing/adjusting/enhancing work outputs while seriously planning Motoring Across America ’13. Yes, it is almost time to fire up BERT (our Big Expensive Road Traveler) and head West.

Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.















Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Quick Trip to Boston
I started off the week with a chilly trip to Boston to begin an engagement with a new client. As I walked from my hotel to their office in the biting wind tearing at my coat and through the crunching snow numbing my feet, it reminded me of Florida, only different. Great group, with folks from Germany, France, Spain, Holland, and Sweden.

Take the Long Way Home
We had driven from the island to Apopka (NW of Orlando) so that Jan and the Kids could visit relatives while I was gone. On our drive back, we decide to take the long way home…our wish was granted :’>>>

About 70 miles from home heading southbound on County Road 660 just north of Limestone, I watched with annoyance, then displeasure, then dismay, as the dial on the temperature gauge marched from “C” to “H” faster than Sherman took Atlanta. As the Borg from Star Trek would say, “resistance would be futile,” so I pulled over off the road around 2:40 p.m., looked under the hood, and then turned off the engine. Luckily there was a little shade, as the temperature was around 83 degrees.

Jan pulled up “auto repair, Arcadia FL” on her iPhone, and I talked with Tex, the proprietor of Tex’s Auto Repair. He said he’d do his best to get us up and moving, and he’d send a tow truck right out. Being 14.7 miles away, we hoped the wrecker would arrive in a half hour or so…a couple hours later Bobby Suggs in the Bobby Suggs wrecker pulled up, loaded our car, and the five of us pulled into Tex’s place at 5:07 p.m.

Tex did a quick but thorough analysis and determined the cause of the problem was a stuck thermostat. Since it was after five, his phone calls attempting to locate a thermostat all went to voicemail. Faced with staying another day (or two or three) in Arcadia, Bobby agreed to take us the remaining 55 miles back home. By the way, Tex would not take a penny for his help--always great to deal with people of integrity. Here is a pic of a smiling Bobby unloading our Honda at home (actually, he was a very nice, interesting guy. Plus his charge seemed quite fair for the distance of the haul).



Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.













Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, Nature Photography

Chowder Cook Off
This week was the second annual Pine Island Boat Club’s Cook Off. Although we had other plans, the past commodore of the Club demanded that Jan participate, as she was the winner of the Inaugural Chile Cook Off held last year (another proud day in the Alexander family).

Fifteen contestants of varying styles and demeanors had prepared their chowders with glee and gusto. Boat Club members (plus three unrecognized people who walked in from the street), ambled down the chowder table, sampling, scrutinizing, and sizing up the selection. All the while the smells of clams, shrimp, grouper, and other mysteries blended with spices, sauces, creams, and broths floating through the air like a Mozart concerto in an auditorium.

As is always the case with Pine Island contests, very strict rules were in place for the judging. No snooty culinary “experts” were to impose their personal taste standards on this group! Just like in Washington, tasters voted with their pocketbooks…if you liked the chowder, you put dough in the dish, currency in the can, bucks in the bucket. Sneaking in a few extra bucks for a spouse or a friend was not frowned upon, but admired.









Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.















Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks, Pine Island

Boat Club Meeting
Here are three “comic-tized” shots from the last Pine Island Boat Club meeting.







Hot Dogs and Potatoes Recipe
Last week’s blog prompted some requests for Jan’s Hot Dogs and Potatoes recipe. Here you go:

• Oscar Meyer hot dogs, sliced lengthwise
• Yellow onion, cut in rings
• Montreal steak seasoning
• Yukon gold potatoes (with skin) sliced
• Tomato soup
• Water (1/2-can for each can of soup you use)

Fry the dogs with onions in olive oil until both are pretty much deeply browned (maybe almost burned). After the dogs are almost burned, add the potatoes and soup. Season with Montreal seasoning, cover, and cook until the potatoes are done. The soup gravy gets thicker the longer it rests.

Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.













Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Pine Island, Old Trucks

Hot Dogs and Potatoes
A favorite meal of Jan’s when she was a little tyke was hot dogs and potatoes. Over the years she has transformed this simple meal into a culinary experience. It is a dinner I look forward to. Jan does not make this meal for just anyone--only true foodies with a sophisticated tongue, sensitive palate, and a sense of daring. We had six such people over the other night to try this exotic dish.





The Great Automobile Race of 1908
Our neighbor and friend’s great grandfather was the captain of the winning crew that first made the trip from New York City to Paris via automobile in 1908. In a solo act, our neighbor brought this phenomenal journey to life as he played his grandfather on stage, recounting this amazing journey. Just remarkable. www.TheGreatAutoRace.com









As a fundraiser, the Calusa Land Trust (www.calusalandtrust.org) sponsored the auto race act along with an antique car show. Here are a few shots of cool old cars.













Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.







Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks also from the antique car show.





See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, Old Cars

Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.









Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Aerial Combat
I was walking the Pups on a windy Thursday afternoon, when a streak caught my eye. I looked up and saw a mature bald eagle flying across the sky at mach 1, with two screaming ospreys in hot pursuit. All three big birds would change direction as quickly as campaigning politicians, diving and dodging, zigging and zagging, all across the horizon. It reminded me of the WWII dogfight footage from the George Lucas movie Red Tails, except the pace I observed was much faster.

As I watched this aerial display of flying prowess and precision, I contemplated the rationale for this dramatic but dangerous behavior. Could a change of diet have caused the eagle to be aggressive? Might an exotic virus be affecting its central nervous system? Possibly global warming had raised the body temperature and heightened mood swings?

Then it struck me like an answer to a Cash Cab question, the eagle must have been bored! What could be more cheering to the Big Bird then messing with the high-strung, totally neurotic, one-level-down-on-the-avian-food-chain osprey? Fly within 50 feet of their nest and you can count on an osprey counterattack as surely as you will find cold beer in fisherman’s cooler. What a spectacle! I wasn’t fast enough to capture the eagle-osprey interaction with my camera, but I got one decent shot of an osprey launching into the sky to join the foray. Can’t wait for tomorrow.



Around the Island
Here are a few random shots from around the Island this week.









Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks...well, the appropriate classification of one of them is up for consideration.





See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, Nature Photography

Around the Island
Sunny and unusually warm (low 80 degrees) week on the Island. I enjoyed a nice pattern each day--early morning walk/bike ride, work most of the day, followed by bike ride/cart ride. Old British TV shows at night. Not bad, eh?

Here are a few shots taken on the Island this week.













Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks.





See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Pine Island, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

St. Jude Trail
St. Jude Trail* is one of my favorite places to walk on Pine Island. Mitzy likes it a lot but Jerry loves it--twice this week I turned around on our walk to see this svelte rat terrier on his back, bony legs straight up with toes pointed skyward, writhing in pleasure as he blissfully rolled in something I didn’t care to identify. The resulting odor would make a sanitation worker squeamish, but proud Jerry inhaled with gusto. If I didn’t know better, I’d think he was a dog!

This week alone I saw a flock of more than 20 roseate spoonbill, great blue herons, night herons, great egrets, brown and white pelicans, and an otter scurrying across the trail and into the water. Here is a shot of some cool art at the Norm Gowan Trailhead and a pre-dawn view from trail’s end.





*St. Jude Trail is a property of the Calusa Land Trust, a non-profit that does a wonderful job buying and managing sensitive lands on Pine Island. If you enjoy the flora and fauna of the area, consider joining. www.calusalandtrust.org

Around the Island
Here are a few shots taken on the Island this week.















Old Trucks
Here are five old Florida trucks.

Headlights

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Wildlife photography, Old Trucks, Pine Island

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Lido Key Beach
Tuesday afternoon I drove ninety miles north to Lido Beach Resort on Lido Key by Sarasota. I gave a speech on selling services to the North American organization of a Swiss manufacturing company. Great group. Here is an evening shot from my room balcony plus one taken on the beach around dawn on a stormy Wednesday morning. Nice place.





Home Depot Dogs
Jerry and Mitzy’s favorite place off the Island is Home Depot. Peering over the moving orange shopping cart and wearing their cutest faces, they gaze among the shoppers awaiting for “Ohhh, look at the puppies” from their human admirers. Strolling through Hardware, speeding through Plumbing, and stopping by Paint, they soak up attention like parched brown grass during a morning shower.

However, the glory of the story doesn’t end there. Within seconds from exiting the store and heading left to your parked vehicle, your nose starts to twitch and your nostrils widen from the aroma of grilling peppers and the delightful smell of gourmet meats being prepared. Within thirteen feet of the exit door is the New York Style Hot Dog and Italian Sausage stand, manned (I guess I should say “womaned”) by a very savvy owner who gives good-mannered and attentive pups a “free” grilled hot dog cut up in canine bites. As we close in on the stand, Jerry looks at Mitzy, Mitzy looks at Jerry, they both look at me, then as if being given a secret nudge, they both stare up at the lady with faces showing an intricate combination of hunger, cuteness, and a genuine love for both the woman and her fare. Best place on the planet for lunch if you ask the Kids.



Around the Island
Here are a few shots taken on the Island this week.















Old Trucks
Here are four old trucks.

Headlights

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, pet photography, Pine Island, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Another week of just amazingly wonderful weather on the Island. A nice blend of working and writing, walking and biking, visiting and chatting.

Birthday Pup
Here is a shot of Jerry getting ready to chow down on his chicken liver (boiled with extra virgin olive oil) birthday cake frosted with Philadelphia whipped cream cheese with beef jerky (“Original,” his favorite flavor). Moments later, he attacked this special treat with gusto--sharing with his sister, Mitzy, of course.

It was his ninth birthday, by the way.



Island Cartoons
Here is a pondering Jerry and a pompous pelican sharing points in time.





Festive Flamingos
Here are two festive flamingos strutting elegantly toward the big Christmas fiesta ...



... and here they are the next morning contemplating the activities of the night before.



Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks for your review.

Headlights

See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Walk and ride bikes in the morning, write most of the day, take cart rides late afternoon. Nice island rhythm.

West Sky at Sunrise
Here is a morning shot a half-hour past dawn.



Old Trucks
Here are five old trucks in all their glory

Headlights

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

T-Day Feast
We spent the Thanksgiving holiday up in Apopka enjoying family and magnificent food. The dinner would have made the Pharaohs drool: hand-mashed russet potatoes topped with fresh, warm butter, bubbling baked sweet potatoes the color of ripe pumpkins, sweet/tart chutney that intensified and enhanced every flavor on the table. Jeff ‘s perfectly prepared turkey (brined and stuffed with fresh citrus) glistened like polished gold. The taste of Jan’s honey-baked ham danced in your mouth and made every taste bud hum. Taylor’s baked pumpkin rolls tasted like stolen treasure but no one felt guilty. And, oh, Auntie’s buns, her marvelous buns.…









Fat-Bottomed Girl
Cousin Jeff affectionately calls his Norwich terrier, Jessie, the “Fat-Bottomed Girl.” Here she is, first being held by Taylor and then showing off her svelte physique in a risqué pose. Also notice the impact on our rat terrier, Jerry, and Mitzy’s thoughts about the whole thing.









Island Pup
Here is a candid shot of an Island dog guarding his domain.



Through the Glass
Here is a picture I took through the kitchen glass. See what you think.



Old Trucks
The day before Thanksgiving, instead of taking the interstate all the way to Apopka, we decided to lessen the traffic and the stress and take the roads less traveled. Here are a few trucks from along the way.

Headlights

See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, pet photography, thanksgiving feast

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Morning Walks
This week we continued our morning walks in near perfect weather. Mature and young eagles soared overhead like fighter jets jockeying for battle position. Pups played and paraded, cows and calves stared in curiosity as we walked by.











Picnic Island
One afternoon we boated the short distance to Picnic Island, a favorite destination from years past.















Sunset on the Sound
One evening we boated alone in the glass-topped waters of Pine Island Sound. We were rewarded for our efforts with this orange sunset radiating off the bright blue sky decorated with wispy clouds.



Old Trucks
Here are two old trucks taken on the Island.

Headlights

See you next week with some Thanksgiving pics.

Tags: Pine Island, Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Walking in the Rain
Fall dominated the outdoors with falling temperatures, falling leaves, and falling rain. Yet, the colors remained vibrant and attitudes remained uplifted--who wouldn’t feel positive among all this beauty? Here are four photos taken along a walk at Markin Glen Park one chilly, wet morning.









Quick Trip to DC
Early in the week I had a short business trip to DC, working with a great client.

Pretty Lake Hike
Saturday morning we hiked with friends around Pretty Lake outside of Kalamazoo. Here are a few shots, including Jan showing off some really big leaves and a shot of Jan, Bobbie, and Deanna with Bobbie’s two pups.













This and That
During the week we visited Wheels (here are her two horses), celebrated a business housewarming for friends, and Mitzy got a haircut; here is a shot right before she went to the groomer.







Old Trucks
Here are a few old truck pictures taken from Kalamazoo and the surrounding area.























Another great week!

Headlights

October 21-26: Kalamazoo, Michigan
October 27-29: Heading South
October 30-31: Red Bay, Alabama
November 1: Appalachicola, Florida
November 2: Arrive Back in St. James City, Florida

See you next week.

Tags: Kalamazoo, Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

The Color Continues
Even with the drop in temperature, daily rains, and high winds, the magical fall colors continued to paint Northern Michigan in their full magnificence. The colors are so intense, I have to de-saturate some of my photos in the computer so that they don’t look artificial--what a nice problem to have!













Quick Trip to Chicago: Pup Presentation
In the first part of the week, I participated in the Society for Service Executives (http://www.servicexecutives.com) annual symposium, giving a keynote speech on customer experience management. Just for fun (and as a personal challenge), I refrained from using any charts, graphs, or matrices, and used only photos of dogs that I have taken to tell my story. (Longtime readers would know most of these pix.) Response was excellent, and I had a blast--my speeches may never be the same! Here are a four that made the big screen...









Farewell to Sleeping Bear
After a great stay as camp hosts, our time was up and we said goodbye to this amazing place and the great bunch of folks we had the pleasure to work with. We have been to some really nice places, but this ranks right at the top. The good news is that we plan on coming back next year. Here is a photo of Ranger Maryellen and our boss, Ranger Dennis.





Important Note: If you decide to leave any comments about these words or pics, keep them nice, Dennis and Maryellen read the blog :’>>>

Back to Markin Glen
Friday around noonish we left Sleeping Bear and meandered over to 31 South to enjoy the views as we traveled south and a little west to Kalamazoo. Taking our time, we shot one old truck along the way and enjoyed the colors that this portion of Michigan offered. By late afternoon we were set up in Markin Glen County Park in 50-degree weather compared to the 100-degree climate we left a few months earlier.

Old Trucks
Here are this week’s old trucks...















Another great week.

Headlights

October 14-26: Markin Glenn, Kalamazoo, Michigan
October 27-29: Heading South
October 30-31: Red Bay, Alabama
November 2: Arrive Back in St. James City, Florida

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks, pet photography, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

The fall colors were in full vibrancy in Northern Michigan, slowing traffic and cranking necks. Jan summed it up well, “It’s just like opening up a pack of Life Savers.”

Quick Trip to Southern California
I started the week on a Sunday morning airplane, taking a quick trip to Orange County. After a great session training service professionals, I returned home late Wednesday night.

Michigan in Raging Color
Here are some shots from our color-hunting day trips. Along with my attempts to capture this rainbow of flora is a shot of Jan shooting me shooting color.



































Big Waves and a Double Rainbow
Late in the week the wind started to howl, adding some six-foot-plus waves to Lake Michigan. Also, a double rainbow appeared for about three minutes Saturday morning, giving me just enough time to get in position and crank off a shot.





Campground Ambassadors
Mitzy and Jerry take their job of being campground ambassadors quite seriously. They make it their job to thoroughly check out the canines in the camp, doing background sniffs when appropriate. They also brave the harsh elements to make the rounds to build goodwill and maintain order.





Old Trucks
Here are few old trucks to gander.















Another great week.

Headlights

October 7-13: Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 14-26: Probably at Markin Glenn in Kalamazoo, Michigan
October 27-29: Heading South
October 30-31: Red Bay, Alabama
November 2: Arrive Back in St. James City, Florida

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Michigan, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

A gorgeous week in Northern Michigan.

Sunrises
I was out on the beach before dawn most days this week, usually by myself. As always, I was not disappointed as the water and sky greeted the sun.







Visit from Auntie
Janny’s aunt came and visited for a few days. Auntie is from this North Country, and we revisited old haunts and discovered new ones as the leaves turned from green to red and gold, and the temperatures dropped from nice-and-warm to pleasantly chilly.



Trail Hiking
We kept active, hiking the following trails: Alligator Hill Trail, Windy Moraine, Bay View Farm Loop Trail, Empire Bluff Trail, Pyramid and Point Trail (bluff and back).











Morning Sun from Campsite
Most chilly mornings the smoke from campfires mimics fog. Here is an early morning shot from our campsite.





Day Trip
Here are a few other shots from day trips during the week.







Old Trucks
Here are few old (and not-so-old trucks). I especially like “Ain’t Got No Body.”





















Another great week.

Headlights

September 30-October 13: Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 14-26: Probably at Markin Glenn in Kalamazoo, Michigan
October 27-29: Heading South
October 30-31: Red Bay, Alabama
November 2: Arrive Back in St. James City, Florida

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Truck Hunting
The family headed SSE from Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore taking back roads that we had never traveled before. Our destination was Dimondale, just southwest of Lansing, but our purpose was to hunt for old trucks along the way. Along with lots of full-size old trucks (see the “Old Truck” section below), we ran across these two pint-sized beauties off a gravel road.



Dangerous Dog and Other Scenics
Here are a few other pics taken along the way to and from…





BD Party
We went to Dimondale to help celebrate Jan’s brother’s birthday (it ends in a zero). Here is a pic of Scott (that’s Debbie in the background) and a shot of Zeke, the low-clearance, garbage-eating, attention-howling, good-looking beagle-bassethound mix. Zeke is one awesome pup!





Trail Hiking
We hiked Otter Creek Trail for the first time, and just as we were at the end, a very large (probably female) adolescent Bald Eagle flew overhead--always a sign of good luck. We also revisited, Shauger Hill Trail and Windy Moraine Trail.





Sunrises
Here are a couple pics of pre-dawn skies over Lake Michigan.





Janny Art
Here is a pic dating back to Colorado, called Aspen Grove, it is one of my favorites. Lately Janny has been working on Autumn cards--here are a couple recent ones. For more, check out her web site at www.janalexanderart.com.





Chipper
As I mentioned last week, the chipmunks run the campground. Here is a picture that captures their audacity. While working outside, I made a snack of crackers and peanut butter. Within 18 seconds of sitting down, I had this little chipper crawling up my leg, looking for her piece of the peanut-butter action. In an attempt to gain my confidence, Chipper came up and introduced herself--hard to resist!





Old Trucks
Here are a few of the trucks shot on our trip down and back from Dimondale…

Headlights

September 16-October 13: Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 14-26: Probably at Markin Glenn in Kalamazoo, Michigan
October 27-29: Heading South
October 30-31: Red Bay, Alabama
November 2: Arrive Back in St. James City, Florida

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Old Trucks, Michigan, Wildlife photography

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Countryside Drives
When not on duty, we take late afternoon drives in the country searching for old trucks. We found some nice ones this week (See “Old Trucks” below) and also ran across some interesting structures.







Sunrise Walks
I try to walk the five minutes to the beach at pre-dawn to enjoy the serenity.





Early Morning Hikes
Almost every morning when we are not on duty, we take a different Sleeping Bear trail. This week we hiked Bay View Trail, Pyramid Point Trail, and Empire Bluff Trail--serene (as long as you are out first thing), wooded, and by Lake Michigan.











Leaves
Yes, I know it is still summer, but the leaves they are a-changing.





Campfire Cooking
Almost every evening, Jan starts a campfire and cooks our dinner over its flames. This past week we have had Camper’s Delight (hamburger, potatoes, carrots, onions, etc. cooked in tin foil), toasted garlic bread with cheese, steaks with roasted red peppers, grilled chicken with new potatoes and onions, and pizza. Below is the recipe for Perfect Campfire Pizza.

Ingredients:
Naan bread
Olive oil
Oregano
Fresh chopped garlic
Pizza sauce
Fresh mozzarella
Fresh basil
Fresh roma tomatoes
Shredded parmesan cheese

Sauté garlic in olive oil. Add fresh oregano and stir until it smells so good you can't stand it (maybe add some shallots, too) and then set aside.

Put pizza sauce, mozzarella, basil, roma tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and garlic mixture on the naan bread, and then wrap loosely In foil.

Place on grate with no fire, just burning embers, and bake until the mozzarella is melted.



South Manitou Island
I took the Pups out for an early morning hike, and then Jan and I drove to Leland. Here we took the 10 o’clock ferry for an hour-and-a-half voyage to South Manitou Island, part of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. On the island we took a tour that included seeing Florence Lake, an old growth of giant cedars, the wreck of the Marazon, and the lighthouse. A quiet island with a fragile ecosystem, and a very nice trip.





Wild Flowers
Here is a bouquet that Jan created from a bundle of sunflowers purchased at a roadside stand.



Old Trucks
Here are a few old trucks from this week’s searching.

Headlights

September 2-October 15: Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 16 On: Heading South

See you next week.

Tags: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

You know you are having fun when all your clothes smell like a campfire and there is sand in the bed. We spent another great week at Sleeping Bear enjoying the magnificent weather, taking hikes through the trees, car rides exploring the country and looking for old trucks, walks along the beach, and cooking/relaxing/chatting around campfires.

Silos
Our late afternoon drives take us through farm country that is slowly starting the passage from summer into fall. Here are a couple old silos that caught my attention.





Old Toy Trucks (Real Old Trucks Later)
A young boy at the campground had a couple of toy trucks--thought I’d add them in.





Trail of Solitude
By 6:30 a.m. Wednesday morning I was out the door and driving the short distance to the trailhead of Sleeping Bear Point Trail past the Maritime Museum. By 6:37 I was on the trail in time to see the pre-dawn pinks gently paint the eastern sky and cast a vibrancy upon the cool Lake Michigan waters. This 2.8-mile loop goes over the dunes along the big lake with an ending stretch wandering through a forest. Just as I like it, there were no people about. I was alone with only the comforting sounds of breezes over the dunes as my companion. The trail guide lists this trail as “strenuous,” and, yes, you do have to slog uphill a few times, but it is not difficult at all, especially if walked in the cool of the early morning. I was done by 7:30 a.m. and back in the motorhome by 7:45--magnificent way to start any day.

Bay View Trail
Thursday morning all of us drove to the Bay View Trailhead and hiked the Farm Loop with a side trip to Lookout Point. It was an easy 2.5-mile hike through woods, meadows, and along farm ground.

Day in the Life of a Sleeping Bear Camp Host
I have been asked the question, “Just what does a camp host do?” Here is my response: After our morning chores, including walking the Pups in light just bright enough not to need a flashlight if you know where you are going, Jan and I walk from BERT north toward Lake Michigan, pulling all camp permits that expire that day from the clips on the post by their sites.

At the north end of the campgrounds, we take the boardwalk to the beach just in time to view the morning sunrise over the water (our official reason for being there is to look for people sleeping on the beach). We walk back and continue off to the maintenance barn where we unlock the door, unplug the charging cord, and get into the official camp host golf cart. Then we continue going around the entire campground pulling all the permits that expire that day.

With that task completed, we drive down to the campground ranger station, first taking down the “full” signs from the road (if appropriate), and then turning in the expiring permits and helping with pre-registration of campers hoping for a site that day. Cars line up in order of arrival, and we walk up to each one gathering data to help register people once the ranger station door officially opens at 8:00 a.m.

We hang around for a while to help with registration if new campers pull up, and then Jan and I split up. She mans the station phone handling incoming calls, while I drive around the campground again, this time taking down old postings on yesterday’s weather and ranger events from the night before and putting up new ones. As I drive along, I’ll pick up some roadside trash, respond to camper questions, and address any other camper issues (e.g., cars needing jumpstarts from dead batteries, people asking directions, and so on).

Then we head back to BERT around 9:00 a.m. for breakfast. I (or we) along with the Pups make a round every hour or so, letting campers know we are there to help them, making sure their campsites are in good shape, and answering any questions. During the day we don’t stray far, and we keep the radio with us.

If the weather is nice, we spend a lot of time outside our motorcoach, again, letting people know that we are accessible. We respond to the occasional radio request from the park staff, but most of the time during the midday we are “on standby.” Jan may do some painting, and I’ll do some writing.

During the day it is usually very quiet, as most campers are at the beach or riding bikes or hiking or visiting other aspects of Sleeping Bear. Late afternoon it picks up as people return, and we continue making rounds, our last one between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. We tell boisterous/pre-boisterous/potentially boisterous groups that quiet time starts at 10:00, and most all groups, most all the time, are very cooperative.

Finally, we return the golf cart to its shed and walk back to BERT with a beam from our flashlight to guide the way. During the night when on duty we leave our weather radio on alert just in case there is a big storm warning requiring action on our part. That’s it…more on the campground and park in coming weeks.

Old Trucks
Here are a few from this week’s searching.

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Headlights

August 19-October 15: Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 16 On: Heading South

See you next week.

Tags: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

River Cruise
We started the week cruising on Scott and Deb’s boat, taking trips that ranged from going through the locks for lunch in Cheboygan and on to Lake Huron to taking a nature route with lots of birds swimming, diving, and soaring among, above, and below the backwaters.















Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore



On Wednesday we departed Waterways Campground in Cheboygan and drove to the DH Day Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore northeast of Empire Michigan. Sleeping Bear is a national park with 65 miles of shoreline that receives around two million visitors a year. The campground is just gorgeous. We have a large wooded site that is an easy walk to a sandy beach on Lake Michigan. The water color ranges from Pacific to Caribbean blue, tempered by a constant wind, ranging from breezy to “I wish I had worn a heavier coat.”

Hikes and Drives
We had some up-front time off in which we got in some hiking and countryside drives. Although it is mid-August, the leaves are starting to turn and the farmland is peppered with roadside stands and handsome pups.















We started our first day of camp hosting on Saturday, quickly learning the ropes of the simple, well-thought-out procedures. The staff is friendly and helpful. I can tell already that this is going to be a great gig.

Wildflowers











Old Trucks

Headlights

August 19-October 15: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, Michigan
October 16-On: Heading South

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Hanging in the Zoo
We stayed at our good friend Donna’s place Saturday evening after Janny’s reunion in Kalamazoo. Here is a pic of Donna and Janny as well as a very photogenic frog from Donna’s garden.





Old Truck Hunting
Mid-morning on Sunday we headed north. Our first stop was the Apple Store in Grand Rapids for some expert iCloud advice for synching our Apple “devices.” Thirty minutes at the Genius Bar and we were back in the car taking back roads and hunting down old trucks on our way back to East Jordan (see the Old Truck section toward the end of the blog).







Up and Over
After a great stay, we left East Jordan Monday morning and headed 89 miles to Cheboygan on the furthermost NE point on the Michigan lower peninsula.



We set up camp at Waterways Campground, a campground owned and run by our Pine Island, Florida, neighbors. This is one great place to RV: large, level grassy sites, with shade, full hook-ups plus cable and WiFi, right on the river with boat docks, 100 yards to a great trail, and on and on. http://www.waterwayscampground.com/

Camping Meet Up
Our good friend Jamers drove up from Kalamazoo to visit. In addition, Jan’s brother Scott and his wife Deb moved in to the site next to us, and the five of us (plus the Pups, of course) spent a few days enjoying the North Country. Rides up and down the river on Scott and Deb’s pontoon, going out to eat, and gabbing around campfires--good fun.

Top ‘O Michigan Marathon Boat Race
After enjoying a Waterways Campground-sponsored hot dog lunch, we went down to the dock to watch this 64th Annual Outboard Race sitting in Scott’s boat. The boats zipped by us on the river, turned around a couple miles later, and then zipped past going back. Here is our group and a few pics I took from the boat and from the nearby bridge.

















Camp Hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes
We are pleased to say that we will be camp hosting at Sleeping Bear Dunes (Empire, Michigan, is headquarters) starting on August 15 and continuing through October 15. Should be a hoot...I need to practice up on my seascapes, beach sunrises, and Pups running on the sand. Much more to come.

Old Trucks

Headlights

August 12-14: Waterways Campground, Cheboygan, MI
August 15-October 15: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire MI
October 16: Start heading south toward Pine Island

See you next week.

Tags: Top ‘O Michigan Marathon Boat Race, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

This week we continued our stay in East Jordan, Michigan, spending time with Janny’s family, exploring the area, taking hikes, and shooting wildflowers, pups, and old trucks.

Volatile Vulture
Ten of us (six people and four pups) took a hike through Cousin Frank’s property. Great chance to run the pups, admire the flowers, and smell the sweet smell of wet grass and dewy trees. Just for fun we decided to climb a hill and check out a long-present deer blind. As I approached the structure, I heard a hissing noise that sounded like a snake. Cautiously opening the door while wondering if some creature was going to catapult/jump/run/fly/skidaddle out the opening and then attack me or flee, I was amazed to see this old vulture as I peeked in (from a distance). Obviously, this ancient buzzard had claimed this blind as his own…amazing.



Pampered Pups
Here are some pup pics taken over the week. Quite good-looking canines, wouldn’t you say?











Jan Reunion
On Saturday we drove the 250 miles back down to Kalamazoo so that Jan could participate in her high-school class reunion. You will notice no photos from me--this was a “women only” reunion!

Wildflowers
A few more flowers (plus a butterfly on a thistle) to gander.















Old Trucks
Jan and I took several trips hunting for old trucks. Here are a few shots from this week.

Headlights

August 5: East Jordan Tourist Park, East Jordan, MI
August 6-20: Waterways Campground, Cheboygan, MO
August 21-On: Exploring Northern Michigan







See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, pet photography, Michigan, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

East Jordan Tourist Park





This township park is a wonderful secret, known mainly just to the Locals. Our grass campsite is 30 feet from the South Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, and comes with full hook-ups and a fire ring full of complimentary firewood. Great place to run the dogs and walk along the beach. Across the water from our site is the famous East Jordan Ironworks, makers of most of the iron manhole covers worldwide.



Quick Trip to Denver
I drove the picturesque hour journey (actually it took a little longer as I stopped twice for old truck pics and once for a coyote) from our campground to the Traverse City airport and flew to Denver for business.



My workshop went very well, and, of course, being in Denver, I drove Friday afternoon to visit the Grandkids. Here is a pic of Granddaughter Natalie.



Family Get Together
Saturday night was a family get together at Frank and Sandy’s cottage on Lake Charlevoix. Everyone had a great time, including, of course, dogs and kids.









Flowers





Old Trucks
Here are some old Michigan truck shots from this week.

Headlights

July 22: Holiday Park Campground, Traverse City MI
July 29-August 5: East Jordan Tourist Park, East Jordan, MI
August 6-20: Waterways Campground, Cheyboygan, MO
August 21-On: Exploring Northern Michigan

See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, East Jordan Ironworks, Nature Photography

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Hot! Hot! Hot!
Markin Glen Park was hot, hot, hot, much like most of Michigan and most of the U.S., with temps in the 100s. How hot was it, you ask? Locals were asking the direction to Hell in an attempt to find a cooler location…now that’s hot! :’>

Morning Walks
This park has nice trails that loop around ponds with swimming swans and are bordered by vivid wildflowers and flitting birds. Here are a few pics from my early morning strolls with the Pups.









One Less Rose in the Garden



On Wednesday night, Janny’s mom, Nancy Nicolen, passed away at her home in Kalamazoo. She will be missed.

Deserved Tribute
On Saturday, our friend, Ronnie Kiracofe, was honored for his decades of work leading the Kalmazoo Amateur Athletic Federation, a nonprofit organization that supports local athletics and has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to college scholarships for local high-schoolers. Here is Ron in front of the quilt he was presented at the Annual Kiracofe Softball Tournament (the longest running softball tournament in the United States).



Old Trucks
Here are some old truck shots from this week.

Headlights

July 15-17: Markin Glen Park in Kalamazoo, MI
July 18-22: Holiday Park Campground, Traverse City MI
July 23-29: East Jordan Tourist Park, East Jordan, MI
July 30-August: Exploring Michigan

See you next week.

Tags: Michigan, Old Trucks

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Sunday
Sprague Lake Hike
Early up and out as Jo and I left camp at sunrise and drove to the Sprague Lake trailhead inside RMNP (Rocky Mountain National Park). Beautiful morning as we first hiked a couple miles past the lake before taking the half-mile trek around the water. The air was fresh with the smell of high-country pines as we hiked by ourselves in the brisk 8,000-feet air. Along the way we saw deer and a Momma turkey with her young.





Trail Ridge Road Day Trip



Before 10:00 a.m., all of us (three adults and three Pups) were back in RMNP looking for critters and taking in the vistas. Soon we were on Trail Ridge Road, the scenic byway that goes up and up, and then over and around the park--a gorgeous drive with high mountain views of the snow-capped Rockies, mountain lakes, and deep green valleys. It was jacket weather at the top as we stopped and I took some photos of a herd of elk feasting on the newly sprouted wildflowers.





Monday



Mountain Hike
I had Jerry and Mitzy on the Lily Mountain Trail by 5:30 a.m. We watched the pre-dawn skies as we hiked the two miles up the steep trail toward the peak of Lily Mountain. The trail information called it “strenuous,” and they were quite accurate as it gained over 1,000 feet in elevation. It was a wonderful hike, but I was happiest when it was over.

Old Trail Ridge Road
Later in the morning we left the Pups to rest in BERT and headed back into RMNP. This time we took the Old Trail Ridge Road, a nine-mile, one-lane, bumpy, winding dirt road that weaved its way up to the Alpine Visitor Center--a nice and slow scenic trip that gave another perspective to RMNP. Right before the end of the trip we were rewarded with a group of a half-dozen mature male elk grazing right by the road. Naturally, I got out of the car and took a few pics.





Tuesday
Lake Gem Trail
Early morning we drove to the 1.7-mile Lake Gem Trail. Very nice hike through the forest surrounded by boulders with the Rocky Mountains in the distance. We were rewarded by viewing Gem Lake at the end of our uphill journey.

The Stanley
After a pleasant lunch outside at the Stanley, the world-famous historical site and hotel, we took the Ghost and History Tour. As you have guessed, not only was the Stanley the basis of the movie The Shining, it is haunted. If you are staying in the area (and not RVing), this is the choice for lodging.





Wednesday: Independence Day
Change of Plans
Janny’s Mom took a turn for the worse, so we decided to head to Michigan early. Hence, we drove to downtown Denver to drop Jo off and then continued on to Parker to drop off Charlie, the pug we had been babysitting. Then we returned back to Estes Park.



Thursday
Early Departure
We were on the road by 6:00 a.m. taking 34 East along the Big Thompson River. We saw a couple bighorn sheep ewes along the way.

Across the Plains
After 80 miles or so, we picked up I-76 east then I-80 east as we rumbled through eastern Colorado, across Nebraska, and into Iowa.

Old Trucks
Here are some old truck shots from this week.

















Wonderful week.

Headlights

July 8-12: Travel East
July 13-14: McHenry, IL
July 15: Homer Glen, IL
July 16-17: Travel
July 18-?: Traverse City, MI
???

See you next week.

Tags: Wildlife photography, Old Trucks, Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

This week brings more old trucks, a Tiny Town trip, and full coverage of the capture of two notorious desperados.

Sunday
This was a quiet day at Snowy Peaks working on the computer, watching the U.S. open, driving through and around Leadville, with everything bookended by a morning lake and an afternoon reservoir hike.



Monday



Back to Chatfield
In the morning Jan guided BERT the 120 miles through valleys, along streams, and over mountain passes to Chatfield State Park in Littleton, CO (SW Metro Denver).

Austie and Brody
In the late afternoon, daughter-in-law Kelly brought our grandson, Austie, and his buddy, Brody, over to spend the night. So it was the usual--playground, swim beach, playground, family movie night, and S’mores.

Tuesday
Tiny Town
After years of talking about it, we finally made the trip (just 30 minutes from Chatfield) to Tiny Town. The boys had a great time, riding the tiny train and exploring all the tiny buildings.









June 20, 2012, Tiny Town Telegraph Feature Story

Notorious Parker Gang Ringleaders Captured in Tiny Town!

Today was a landmark day for Colorado as two of the most despicable, mean, ornery, outlaws of the West were finally incarcerated after years of pursuit by the Colorado Highway Patrol, the Texas Rangers, the FBI, the Canadian Mounted Police, and four relentless nuns.

In disguise as Boulder left-wing hippies, “Automatic Austie” and “Bad Boy Brody” had snuck into Tiny Town unnoticed. The town sheriff, however, became suspicious when she noticed that both of the desperadoes ordered swirly ice cream cones--the trademark of the famous bandits. Before they could say “Dag Gummit,” she had them locked up in the Tiny Town jail awaiting sentencing.



Just look into their eyes and you can understand the raw terror felt anytime these two hombres rode their horses into town.

Wednesday
Work Work Work
Wednesday was a “head down” day consisting primarily of interviews, as I’m conducting a search for a services executive for a client.

Thursday
Back to Business
During the day I facilitated a workshop in the northern part of Denver that went very well.

Fun Reunion
That evening, though, was just great. Our two nieces, whom we hadn’t seen in years, have both moved to the Denver area and drove over to spend the evening with us. They are both very smart, lots of fun, and even prettier than I remember.

Friday
More Business
I finished up my second client day.

Saturday
We broke camp and drove the 40 miles, mostly south, to a campground south of Castle Rock.

Old Trucks
Here are some old trucks from this week.







Wonderful week.

Headlights

June 24-27: Cheyenne Mt. State Park, Colorado S:prings, CO
June 28-29: Colorado Campground, Pike National Forest
June 30-July 4: Mary’s Campground, Estes Park
July 5-7: St. Vrain State Park
July 8-12: Travel East
July 13-14: McHenry, IL
July 15: Homer Glen, IL
July 16-17: Travel
July 18-?: Traverse City, MI
???

RV Park Review
Check out www.rvparkreviews.com for my reviews and those of other travelers of recent campgrounds we have stayed at.

See you next week.

Tags: Old Trucks, Colorado, tiny Town

Contents

Rearview Mirror - Summary of the past week
Headlights - Our schedule as to where we will be heading

Note: click on any photo for a larger image/slideshow)

Rearview Mirror

Rough and narrow, steep and winding--the title of this week’s blog describes our road trip up and over Cumberland Pass at 12,000-plus feet. This week you’ll see a bighorn sheep that is helping out the postal service, a dedicated marmot with a mission, a Chihuahua that bites, a bird or two and, by popular demand, more old trucks.



Sunday
Gunnison National Forest
Mid-morning we pulled out of Montrose and drove the 115 miles to One Mile Camp in the Gunnison National Forest northeast of Almont (east of Gunnison). Yes, you have heard it multiple times from me, but it was a gorgeous trek along this stretch of West Elk Scenic Byway--tall mountains, lush valleys, gurgling streams…ho-hum….

Postal Service Cutbacks
As you all probably know, the U.S. Postal Service is in financial trouble. Here at Almont they are taking an innovative approach. They have sold all their mail trucks and are using bighorn sheep to pack the mail along the routes. Here is one guy who got his days mixed up and came to work on a Sunday.



Monday
Guardian of the Valley
Brrr…22 degrees when I awoke. I am all into this hiking thing, but that is a tad chilly. Hence, we all loaded into the car at 6:30 a.m. for a wildlife-spotting drive. We took the back roads leading to the Spring Creek Reservoir admiring the scenery as we drove. Several miles up the road we pulled off to let the Pups stretch their legs in a valley. I heard a shrill whistle, and then spotted a marmot on guard duty across the valley. After our walk on our drive out, I spotted this same fellow perched atop a boulder. He was attentively watching our every move, sounding his warning call at regular intervals and showed no intimidation as I photographed him. In fact, by the look on his face, I think he would have attacked if I got out of the car. Here he is sounding the alarm.



Crested Butte
That afternoon I needed to make a business call (no AT&T at the camp or nearby areas), so we drove back to Almont and then east to Crested Butte. This area is known for its beautiful wildflowers, and that is one of the reasons why we chose to stay in this area. Alas, lack of rainfall had a big negative impact on the flowers. After my call and a nice lunch, we both walked and then drove the streets of this attractive burg. Here is a shot of a home on a side street.



Gothic
From here we continued north, first through nearby Mt. Crested Butte, then along a dirt road to Gothic. On our return home, we took a ranching country shortcut where I shot these cowboys and their dogs having lunch along the river, and later I captured this bird of prey in flight.





Tuesday
Big-Time Road Trip
At 5:30 a.m. we were out of camp, heading up to the Taylor Reservoir. I shot a bighorn on the dam, but aside for chipmunks and a few birds, that was all the critters we saw for the first hour of our journey. We spent some time at the charming town of Tin Cup, first viewing its cemetery (complete with Protestant Ridge, Catholic Ridge, Jewish Ridge, and Boot Hill), and then back to town for a hardy breakfast at Frenchy’s. In town this handsome Violet-green Swallow posed for me. Also, here is a shot of a canoe at Frenchy’s.







From town we drove up the two rugged miles to Mirror Lake. We hiked around the lake, drove down the mountain, and continued on. As we ascended, our road gradually narrowed down to about a lane-and-a-third, the rocks enlarged from golf ball-sized to baseball-sized, and the switchback became more severe until we could see the back of our car trying to pass us around corners. However, the view from the more than 12,000-foot Cumberland Pass made it all worth it. Jan took this shot at an old mining camp on our return.



At Pitkin we stopped for snacks, and I took this shot of a boy and his beloved Chihuaha (he bites).



Here we picked up the road, continued on to Gunnison, then back to Almont, and then returned to camp completing our all-day, 100-mile journey.

Wednesday
Nathrop



After a nice hike along Taylor River, we broke camp and drove the 99 miles to Chalk Creek Campground in Nathrop, Colorado.

Thursday
Camping Grandkids
Our Grandkids (along with their parents and our Grandpup) arrived in the early afternoon for a mini-camping holiday. The highlight of the day (along with a campfire and S’mores) was a visit to the local hot springs.





Friday
Horseback Riding
Our big event on Friday was horseback riding. Here is another pic.



Saturday
We packed up and moved about 15 miles to the Snowy Peaks RV Park just north of Buena Vista. I kept my head down at the computer while Jan did her work.

Old Trucks
I’ve gotten several positive comments on my old truck shots, so I will make a regular blog entry.













Trivia Update on the Million Dollar Highway
Last week I mentioned the Million Dollar Highway south of Ouray. My friend Gene is a successful gold prospector and responded back to me with the real story of how the Million Dollar Highway was named: After the road was built, they discovered gold in the gravel, and someone estimated there was a million-dollar’s worth! Thanks, Gene.

Wonderful week.

Headlights

June 17: Snowy Peak RV Park, Buena Vista, CO
June 18-22: Chatfield State Park, Littleton, CO
June 24-27: Cheyenne Mt. State Park, Colorado Springs, CO
June 28-29: Colorado Campground, Pike National Forest
June 30-July 4: Mary’s Campground, Estes Park
July 5-7: St. Vrain State Park
July 8-12: Travel East
July 13-14: McHenry, IL
July 15: Homer Glen, IL
July 16-17: Travel
July 18-?: Traverse City, MI
???...

RV Park Review
Check out www.rvparkreviews.com for my reviews and those of other travelers of recent campgrounds we have stayed at.

See you next week.

Tags: Nature Photography, Wildlife photography, Bird photography, Colorado, Gunnison National Park, Cumberland Pass, Old Trucks