September 29, 2002
Life on a campground is wonderful.
We met a lot of very nice people thanks to our cute Yorkie-Hua-Hua puppy "Chester".

September 30, 2002
We are invited to stay on the Old "Honey Springs Ranch" north of Dulzura.
If you ever need a good professional to lay tile or marble, give Jim Storc from Cal Custom a ring at (760) 533-6559.
Jim is a very creative and friendly person.
The kids are writing a lot in their journals and want to each create their own E-Book, that will be published on our web-site.
Mom enjoys the new gained freedom from house chores.
Today the girls had an appointment for their braces. Further work is now postponed until we get back.
More shopping at Camping World, the Home Depot of motor home owners.
A visit with dear friends.

October 1, 2002
Returned COX high speed cable modem from house.
Registered motor home with DMV after waiting for over one hour.
At least you get to pick a number and sit in a chair, while a computer calls numbers and displays them on screens.
I wonder how much somebody made implementing this system that measures how long customers are waiting instead of shortening the wait.

October 2, 2002
More fixes to the motor home.
Published newsletter for the first time from our Gypsy wagon.

October 3, 2002
Bring RV to mechanic for last tweaking.
First stop for gas. Whew, this thing is very thirsty. The pump stopped after $100 even though the tank wasn't full.
Seems to be some credit card fraud security policy.

October 4, 2002
One more stop at Camping World San Marcos, the Library in Solana Beach and Home Depot.
A short, and nice lunch with Pete Farmer, a fellow coach from Rancho Santa Fe.
www.WarriorCoaching.com
Last check at our house, for the final "good bye".

October 5, 2002
Boot camp is over and it's time to make some serious mileage.
Today we drove from Jamul, Campo, Ocotillo, S2 north to Aqua Caliente Hot Springs and Camping in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, the largest State Park in the Nation we where told.
A warm and clear night in the Desert was great for star gazing.
And the packs of coyotes added some excitement to our first night without the usual water, electricity and sewer hookups.

October 6, 2002
Today's leg took us from Aqua Caliente to Indio to pick up something we had shared to some friends from Switzerland visiting us before we left on September 28.
Then we headed for Barstow and had to change plans for a stay in Victorville, because one of the gasoline filters clogged and I needed to repair it.
I point out the importance of reserves to my clients and was glad that I also walk the talk and had a reserve filter packed away.
We stayed at a beautiful State Campground in Victorville and didn't get much sleep since the lush green horse pastures and the still lake are located close to two major freight train lines.

October 7, 2002
We had intended on staying two nights in Victorville because of the lush scenery and then changed our mind because of the trains.
We learned to only make reservations for one night and then to extend or you will not receive a refund.
Victorville to Barstow and then on to Twin Lakes RV Park in Newberry Springs was a breeze.
Freeways are great, specially when riding wind shade behind the big trucks. It saves lots of gasoline.
Another lesson learned is that some people like to stretch the truth a bit.
It was time to check emails and we called ahead to check if the Woodall's camping guide was correct regarding phone hookups at the site.
Yes, yes no problem. Until we arrived and oh, sorry sorry. The owner notices that I feel betrayed and offers that I could extend a cable over to the office, and use the line after 8pm when the office is closed.
I learned to check vital utilities before setting up to stay.

October 8, 2002
Today we went to Calico the Ghost town.
It's amazing what people do when offered the chance to become materially wealthy.

October 9, 2002
Barstow, Baker, Death Valley.
Death Valley has a lot to offer and is worth the detour.
It's not as hot, dry and dead as you would expect.
Again a beautiful night with some deep good talks under the star filled night sky.

October 10, 2002
Death Valley to Pahrump.
Gasoline was over $2.00 so we took the chance of getting to Nevada with the 1/4 tank we had left.
The map didn't show us that we had to crawl over a high mountain pass to get to Nevada and the needle dropped rapidly.
Again the concept of reserves gave us some peace of mind, since we were towing our Van that had a full tank, and we could use it to fetch some at the next gas station if necessary.
Fortunately we made it to Beatty and were rewarded with much lower prices than in California. Whew!

October 11, 2002
Pahrump to Las Vegas.
Towing our Mini-Van on a dolly has become a burden and since we love to simplify our life and clean sweep all the clutter we have decided to put it up for sale with a consignment dealer in Pahrump before we hit the road to Las Vegas.
Wow, its like flying in hyper-space without the Van in tow.
We arrive at a Arizona Charlie's East RV Campground with a phone line that works, and we all can catch up on emails, phone calls and updating the website.

October 12, 2002
Today we take the Arizona Charlie's Hotel Shuttle to the Stratosphere and work our way down the strip on the west side until Caesars Palace, then it's across the street and back up the east side to catch the 5pm shuttle back to Charlie's' at the Stratosphere.
We don't recommend taking a cute Yorkie-Hua-Hua puppy to the strip or you will have to stop every five minutes to let people adore him.
I am thinking of printing business cards for Chester so that people have all the important info in writing and we don't have to explain it over and over again....:-)
Not many families on the strip this time of year, so we draw some attention.

October 13, 2002
Another day (and night) exploring the rest of the strip.
There is sooooo much to see and do.
Best of all, we received FREE tickets to the Charo's show at the Sahara. What a treat!

October 14, 2002
Columbus Day. We are glad that he discovered this wonderful country.
Mom and the Kids relax by the pool and catch up on some sleep while I am busily involved with work.
One last night of gambling. Hey we invested 20 nickels, won 400 and then lost them all and went back to our cozy and quiet motor home.
The casino reminded us a bit of Europe because of the smokers.
People smoke a lot in public places in Europe and I am glad that the USA has restrictions.

October 15, 2002
Good bye Las Vegas. Hello Henderson. It's time to fill up on provision and stop by Camping World (Home Depot for Campers).
Then it's on to Hoover Dam. Yes after a rather lengthy inspection of our vehicle, we were allowed to actually drive over it.
Security is tight since the recent incident.
Due to our late start we only make it to Dolan Springs off 93, south of Grand Canyon West.

October 16, 2002
Today we drove from Dolan Springs to Williams, a picturesque rail road town south of the entry to the Grand Canyon south rim.
It rains all night and we freeze our bu... off on the campgrounds of Kaibab National Forest.

October 17, 2002
We wake up very early shivering and that gives us a head start to reach the Grand Canyon early.
We are so fast that we even catch up with the rain storm that hit us last night.
The good news is that on our way up 64 north 80% of the population is coming our way, leaving the Canyon in a frantic escape (at least it seems to be the case).
After we pitch tent, i.e. level the motor home with the hydraulic jacks, we start out to explore natures wonders.
Because we are equipped with umbrellas and parka jackets with hoods the storm is frightened and leaves without any more rain.
On the contrary, the sun comes out and we start to peel multiple layers of clothes off.
After finding our way through the city, yes it's amazing what you can find up on the south rim of the Grand Canyon, we have our first encounter with the deep and wide gorge.
It is absolutely breath taking and definitely a must see.
I think we are very lucky that the rain cleared the air and provided us with such a magnificent view.
We learned that this is a seldom opportunity that occurs approx. 1% of the time.
It seems that usually, because of fog, pollution and fires, the view is impacted.

October 18, 2002
The kids love working through the junior ranger program and achieve the merit badge, certificate and patch.
Today we take it easy and utilize the bus shuttles instead of torturing our feet even more.
In the afternoon it's time to leave the main attraction and tourist traps and work our way east along the south rim to Cameron.
From there it's south to Flagstaff and then east to Winslow.
After another beautiful evening with sunset, stargazing and good food it's time for a shower and then hit the sack.

October 19, 2002
Today we drive from Winslow through the Petrified Forest and Painted Dessert then Navajo Indian reservation to a rest area 200 yards from the State line to New Mexico.
The Petrified Forest is a very interesting natural phenomenon.
The Petrified Forest really does look like it was hit with a brush and cans of color.
A truck parked next to us on the rest area and left his engine running. After about an hour of this we turn the ignition key and take off to Gallup, NM. Where we find a more quiet space on an empty lot next to a Motel.
Now we only had to deal with the horn blowing trains. Yes we are exhausted.

October 20, 2002
After a hearty breakfast at a local Pancake House to treat ourselves for the short night we hit the road again.
This leg takes us from Gallup to Albuquerque, Santa Fe ending at the KOA in Santa Rosa.
We love Santa Fe, with it's beautiful and cozy looking adobe houses.
Because of chilly weather we couldn't stay very long, since we can't afford to get caught in snow.

October 21, 2002
We leave Santa Rosa and take some side roads to Roswell.
Yes we visited the UFO Research Institute and Museum.
I believe that there are other life forms, but don't think that they look like little green humans that travel by flying saucers.
Next stop is the Bottomless Lakes State Park.
The front two air cushions need to be replaced and Main Trailers, Roswell can't take us until Friday.
So we will be staying here the next few days.

October 22, 2002
Today we take it easy, enjoy the lakes and chill.
We learn, that the lake seemed "bottomless" to the Cowboys that gave the lake its name.
The reason are strong currents that didn't let their lasso's hit the bottom of the lake.
Some construction is going on and the park will look even better, when done.

October 23, 2002
We decide to use the waiting time to replace the 15 year old microwave with one that has a turntable inside.
The old one just didn't meet our standards anymore.
So its off to Home Depot. I install it on the parking lot. Then we donate the old but still functioning one to the Thrift Store of Salvation Army.
After getting some gas, its back "home" to the campground.

October 24, 2002
Some house cleaning and reading.
Then early in the sack, to get an early start tomorrow morning.

October 25, 2002
The big day is here. Up before the crack of dawn and over to the shop.
Dave does a good job and the owner gives us a break on the price, since we don't need all parts to be replaced.
By noon we hit the road and feel like our vehicle has turned into a cloud.
Its amazing what riding comfort technology can provide!
We feel so good that we drive all the way to Lubbock in Texas!
In Lubbock we stay on the parking lot of the Ranch Heritage Museum.

October 26, 2002
The museum is definitely worth seeing.
They have done a great job rebuilding and restoring approx. 30 Ranch structures.
You walk on a self guided path that leads you on a timeline from the early days in shacks to Victorian style mansions.
Our puppy Chester is running out of food and the girls need more Spanish and French books, so we visit Pet-Smart and Barnes & Nobles.
Next stop is Post. No not the Post office. There is a small town called Post, SE of Lubbock.
We get there early to take advantage of the on-site phone (modem) hook-up at Post View Campgrounds.
Unfortunately, the Campground didn't hold up to its promise, even though I called ahead to confirm.

------------------------------ End of daily, and start of weekly log file ------------------------------

October 27 - November 3, 2002
I think it is easier for you to follow this log on a weekly base, and starting this week I will be providing a weekly summary.
Next stop is Albany Motor Inn & RV Campground in Albany, TX.
We fall in love with this small, historical town with a population of approx. 2500.
A large storm catches up with us and we decide to weather it out here.
Finally time to catch up on some necessary business, web-site updates, emails, phone calls, etc.
After a few days of R&R in Albany we move on to Mineral Wells State Park, approx. 40 miles west of Fort Worth.
Then its on to see Fort Worth, Arlington and Dallas.
We stay the night at Camping World in Denton.
The next night at a Campground called "The Colony" south east of lake Lewisville.
Sheila has a school friend in Plano and is invited to stay the night with her, where we also pick up the mail that has been forwarded by Fed Ex.
While Sheila is having a fun sleep over party, we stay at Wylie State Park on the south shore of Lake Lavon.
After visiting a while with Sheila's friends and downloading emails, we head south to Huntsville State Park on the shores of Lake Conroe.

November 4-10, 2002
This week we move on from Huntsville to a privately owned RV park in Willis on the shore of Lake Conroe.
Its time to catch up on phones, emails, mail, laundry, repairs, etc.
After two night here, its time to check out Houston and the NASA/Johnson Space Center.
Then heading south we reach Galveston and the Gulf of Mexico. It feels good to connect with the Ocean again.
We arrive at Galveston Island State Park and are able to pitch camp approx. 50 yards from the sandy beach.
After a leisure walk on the beach its time to pull up stake dump the grey water tank and head for the NMFS Sea Turtle Research Facility.
Over 600 threatened and endangered sea turtles are being raised at the NOAA/Fisheries Sea Turtle facility.
Next stop Wal-Mart. While waiting for the women to return with all kinds of goodies to eat, I repair the rear left leveling jack.
We leave Galveston Island State Park and head 15 miles north to the Gulf Greyhound Park, the worlds largest greyhound racing operation.
We had fun watching these beautiful dogs fly around the race track.
Then we drove to down town Galveston for a FREE ferry boat ride over to Port Bolivar.
After a few miles we stayed the night on the parking lot of a church.
The next morning on to Winnie then Port Arthur with its huge and impressive oil refineries.
Sabine Pass is a little beach town with a large, new school house with light house theme.
We stay for the night at Sea Rim State Park, another nice site 50 yards from the beach.
Since most of the sites are flooded, due to the massive rain falls the last 2 weeks, we have the whole Park for our own!
Today, Sunday we drove up to Beaumont, TX to stay with one of the scarce RV parks with phone hook-ups on site.
Finally I can tend to some "electronic" business, like 300 emails and updating the web-site.
More to come, by end of next week.

November 11-17, 2002
Veterans Day, we share some thoughts with veterans in the RV Park, and catch up on some necessary shopping.
Afterwards a few minor repairs and improvements of the motor home.
I love the new cell-phone antenna up on the roof, that provides much better field strength for improved reception.
Instead of crossing over the state border to Louisiana, we decide to "back track" a bit, stay in Texas and explore the area of the south-western Gulf of Mexico.
Wednesday its back to Galveston State Beach Park, for some long walks along the beach.
Thursday we boon dock on the shore in Port Alto. A freezing cold wind coming down from Canada doesn't let us get much sleep, but we enjoy the sea shell covered beach.
Friday we stay at Goose Island State Park, near Holiday Beach.
They have a tree called Big Tree here, that is over 1,000 (!) years old.
Don't know why they called it Big Tree instead of Old Tree, since its not that big of a tree.
We also watch the activities at the public boat launch, where men are departing and returning from duck hunting and fishing.
Remo is amazed by the Everglade Boats, you know, then ones that are flat and have a propeller at rear.
After another ferry ride we make it to Mustang Island State Park, south of Corpus Christi.
Its dark when we arrive so Sunday morning its time to head out and explore our new surroundings.
I have never seen such a long and wide white sand beach!
If you have a good map at home, take a look. These sand dune beach islands start south east of Houston and reach all the way down to the southern tip of Texas.
I estimate the total length, with some gaps here and there of 320 miles!

November 18-24, 2002
No clouds in the sky, 85F, beautiful white sand, a phone hookup in the phone booth, what else does one need?
Under these circumstances we decide to stay a few days here at the Mustang Island State Park.
Restless we move on through Harlingen to Port Isabel and then on to South Padre Island at the south tip of Texas.
The cops in Port Isabel didn't like us boon docking on the parking lot of the local High-School and shoo us away to Wal-Mart.
South Padre Island is a picturesque beach town, with all the amenities and tourist traps you can handle.
In Brownsville we get close to the Rio Grande and the US - Mexican border.
Multiple times we try to get close to the Rio Grande to actually see the river, but border patrol officials don't give us a chance.
Finally at the Bentsen - Rio Grande Valley State Park (south of Mission, TX) we get a chance to walk 2 miles on a nature trail that takes us to the Rio Grande river.
The mosquitoes were glad to see (eat) us on that humid, 80F warm day.
We all enjoyed a refreshing shower in our motor home as soon as we made it back from our hike through the swamp jungle.

November 25 - December 1, 2002
We boon dock the night from Sunday to Monday on the parking lot of Camping World.
Monday I am able to catch up on some minor repairs and the 54,000 mile oil change.
Do it your self saves a lot of money and is fun, if you have the skills.
Tuesday we move to West Mission RV Resort to catch up on emails, internet, banking, etc.
The temperatures drop from the low 80's to low 40's (brrrr!)
Not used to such arctic climate, I manage to catch my first cold in years.
We decide to weather both the chilly weather and the cold out at Mission West.
Thursday's Thanksgiving is a humble and simple lunch of ham, mashed potatoes and pineapple, mixed with a lot of gratitude for good health (except for the cold) and all the wonderful things that are happening in our life's.
Friday I feel much better and Saturday we drive into town for some shopping.
Then south-west parallel to Rio Grande to Falcon State Park in Falcon.
A dam here has made a large fresh water lake out of the Rio Grande and the fee for full hook-ups (water, electricity, sewer) is only $11.

December 2-8, 2002
Monday we stay another day and night at Falcon, then Tuesday we drive on to San Ygnacio and stay the night until Wednesday.
Didn't get much sleep in San Ygnacio. First a truck let its engine run for a while, then the music of a live band playing somewhere in town until 3:30 am after that a dog barking, then the rooster and finally people leaving for work in their cars.
It's time to move on to a quiet place to catch up on some sleep, and off we are to Laredo for some shopping and to pitch camp at Lake Casa Blanca State Park.
The weather forecast warns us of some cold wind coming down from Canada, so we decide to stay until Friday before moving on to San Antonio.
Ursula wants to see the cave there, that has been known to have similar "powers" as the one in Lourdes, France. It has been built as an exact replica of the real thing in France.
After a cold boon dock night on the parking lot, we head down town to the Alamo and the "San Antonio River Walk".
The river walk is definitely a great thing to do on a hot summer evening.
I recommend the narrated boat tours, similar to the ones in Venetia.
The children's holiday parade is cute too.
After a great time in San Antonio we head west to Seminole Canyon State Historical Park, 26 miles north-west of Del Rio, TX.
Sunday we make it to the historic, over 100 year old Prude Guest Ranch 5 miles northwest of Fort Davis on 118.
The people here are very friendly and willing to go the extra mile to accommodate. Free continental breakfast is a hit with Ursula, yippee, no cooking in the morning!

December 9-15, 2002
We love the hospitality and atmosphere at the Prude Ranch.
The whole ranch and all its facilities are ours, since we are the only guests!
The girls want to do some horse back riding, so we hang around until Tuesday.
The ranch is above 5,000 ft elevation and the temperatures drop below 20F in the night.
Our fresh water hose freezes and we need to manage with the water we have in the tank.
No problem, when having reserves. Something that my coaching clients know about.
We enjoyed two evenings in the log cabin with fireplace and "burning" marshmallows.
Tuesday afternoon we make it to Van Horn. A small town on I-10.
It seems as if the whole town only exists because of the many RVers that stay here for the night on their way to other places.
Another cold night and we move on through El Paso, TX to Bowie, AZ.
We take care of laundry, after I was able to repair the machines, and pick up our "general delivery" mail at the Post Office.
Our next planed stop is Tucson, AZ. We take a break short before Benson and a man hands us a flyer with an invitation to stay 4 days and 3 nights for free at a 5 star RV resort.
Change of plans and south to St. David.
Its good to be in one place for a while, meet friendly people, catch up on business, get over a stomach flue, etc.
The kids enjoy the heated swimming pool, Chester our puppy likes the long walks, Ursula has time to relax.
I love mingling with and exchanging experiences with the people here in the resort.
Its a good way to learn from others mistakes, so you can make new ones on your own.
One of many reasons why people work with success coaches.

December 16-22, 2002
Monday the resort tells us all about their offer. Then its time to move on to Tucson's camping world and the Beaudry RV center.
We stay until Thursday looking, talking and dreaming of our next RV.
Jason Chamberlin (Cell: 520.465.0148) and his colleague Carlos are very helpful.
Then its off to Eloy to wait a few days until a X-mas package for Sheila arrives from one of her best friends.

December 22-29, 2002
We move on, boon dock a bit, stay at RV resorts a bit, celebrate Christmas, get stuck in the sand out in the desert and need to be pulled out by a tow truck.

December 30, 2002 - January 30, 2003
We decide to lay low at the wonderful Leapin' Lizard R.V. Ranch in Ocotillo-Wells until end of January to relax, take care of some business and to prepare for the next leg of this adventure.

February, March 2003
We absolutely love this life style, and decide to head home and get rid of all the clutter that we now know we don't need anymore. Even the house must go, its on the market. We intend to stay at home until the house is sold and then continue with our trip.
Stay tuned for more to come!

March 6 - April 2, 2003
March 6, 2003 our home has attracted wonderful people as its new owners. We are so happy that all has turned out to be a win-win for all involved. Our Realtors Jay Burneo and Rosie Gross, the new owners, and the Ruegg's are all satisfied with "the deal". Escrow has been started and closes April 2, 2003. We are planning on putting just a few belongings into storage and hitting the road April 2, 2003. I will keep you posted early April. We put our "bounder" in storage for one week and when we picked it up the right rear corner was "bruised", so much for letting other people drive your rig.

April 2 - April 8, 2003
Escrow is taking longer than what was agreed upon per contract. "Over promising and under delivering" seems to be a general challenge for lots of folks. Our brokers Jay Burneo and Rosie Gross explain, that this is always the case and that we are at the mercy of the lenders underwriter. Why sign contracts when nobody keeps there side of the bargain? We moved out of our home on March 27 for close of escrow by April 2. We have been hanging around in our motor home for 13 days. We received one "parking" ticket of $35 for staying more than 72 hours in one spot. And some neighbors called anonymously because we were sleeping in our motor home in front of our own home! I had all utilities disconnected and had to re-establish again in order to keep the pool and garden maintained. More lessons learned as first time home sellers. Sometimes I wonder why we are paying all of these "experts" and still have to learn the hard way, because they don't share their advise.

April 9 - April 13, 2003
Our coach battery is not charging from the AC converter, we schedule an appointment and head towards Beaudry RV service San Marcos. As we arrive on their driveway Gerry the service representative hears fluid gushing from out under the engine. After the technicians conduct their diagnostics and hit us with an estimated $3,600 repair bill we receive a phone call from Rosie Gross, our real estate agent. Yippee! Finally we have a C.O.E. (close of escrow)! We are free to go where ever we want. It's hard to really enjoy the news after waiting for so long for it to happen and after just being presented with such a large repair quote. We contemplate if it is time to trade in our old rig for something new, and decide that we don't want to jump the gun. Green light for the technicians at Beaudry to go ahead with the repairs. Unfortunately they don't start until Thursday late afternoon (1 1/2 days later) and aren't done until Saturday at 4 p.m. The up side are that we had 3 1/2 days to look at possible new rigs, we were able to stay three nights for free in our motor home in front of the repair bay, and Saturday we took advantage of a free hotdog for lunch. By Saturday evening we need to shower, wash clothes, pick up our emails, and prepare for the next leg of our adventure, so we stay one night at Escondido RV Resort, and then leave for Yuma, Arizona Sunday April 13th.

April 14 - April 20, 2003
Our intention for the next few months is to investigate and decide where we would like to settle down, because our kids would like to go back to school. First stop is Yuma. We think it might be warm and dry, less expensive than San Diego, yet close enough to San Diego, the Sea of Cortez, Phoenix, Tucson, and large enough to provide for basic needs. We looked at various ways to live in Yuma. Housing in the city, mobile homes in the desert, park models in RV resorts. So far the option of a Mobil Home in the desert seems to be the best fit. The ventilation fan in the bathroom broke and I ordered a new one from Fantastic Fan. They provide a life long warranty and promised to send a replacement by end of the week. So far it hasn't arrived yet. Another case of "Over promising and under delivering". Easter Sunday we move on to Mesa, AZ to look at a new rig and to get to know that area better. The kids hope that the Easter bunny will find us even though we are on the road. I am sure he or she will.
We end up staying at the KOA (Campgrounds Of America) in Apache Junction.

April 21 - April 27, 2003
The transmission doesn't seem to be shifting correctly. I call a local shop called AC Thrifty Transmission in Apache Junction. I love these small shops. You even get to know the owner. Their diagnosis is that the "trany" needs to be rebuilt. Ouch! However we have luck in un-luck, since they had one already rebuilt in storage that another customer didn't pick up. We stay the night on the parking lot of yet another shop and take off with an almost new and improved transmission. Later in the day we notice that something still isn't working right and get stuck on the road with a big puddle of red transmission fluid under the engine. One phone call and the mom and pop shop is on it's way to the rescue. Fifteen minutes later we are told that one of the transmission cooler hoses has burst. The system is only as strong as the weakest link. After a quick fix the manager drives our rig back to the shop while I comfortably sit on the queen-bed in the back and enjoy the ride. Being proactive one of the technicians had started rebuilding the original transmission and thanks to that we only had to stay one additional night at the shop. They must have heard of the reserves concept that I use with my clients. Wednesday evening we are back at the KOA. No rebate for missed nights! Thursday we finally get to look at some new rigs, do some shopping at the RV'ers Home Depot called Camping World. We also swing by Beaudry RV in Mesa to get a spare part, so that I can repair the hydraulic jack levelers. However this turns out to be another adventure. Spare parts are ordered and as soon as they arrive we need to go back to Mesa to have the shop do the repair. However, we are lucky again, since the AC Thrifty Transmission shop in Apache Junction wants to double check that all is well with our transmission. Good way to swat two "flies" in one hit...or something like that. Friday morning it's off to Tucson. We drive the back road of 77 through Oracle Junction and Oro Valley. They are building like crazy up there. We take advantage of getting food at the brand new Albertsons and then pitch stake at Beaudry RV. It's fairly reasonable and is one of the few RV resorts that provides phone hookup on arrival. Sunday we look at some lots and model homes in the area south-west of Tucson. But I don't feel as good as usual, hmmm.

April 28 - May 4, 2003
Sunday evening I get hit by a strong flu and lay in bed with over 100F fever, hallucinating until its over on Wednesday. Thursday its time to fill the pantry and fridge with food. Friday we head towards Mesa, AZ to have the hydraulic levelers repaired at Beaudry RV Service, Mesa, AZ. While we are waiting for Jim Andres and his team to repair the rig, we look around for a new travel trailer. Brad Kimler is very helpful and not your usual sales person. Brad knows his stuff and will try to make almost anything possible. I can highly recommend Brad (480) 644-0330. Bottom line we have a brand new trailer on order that might arrive by end of May. Thanks Brad! After another night at the KOA in Apache Junction it's over to the AC Thrifty Transmission Shop, where Darren checks everything over and then turns us loose to roam the streets again. It feels great to have a new transmission humming below. And off they go to the KOA in Kingman, AZ. Then Sunday end spurt to Las Vegas.

May 5 - 11, 2003
This week at the Las Vegas RV Resort Charlie's East, we catch up on electronic business, get groceries and shop around for a pick-up truck, visit some people that we met the last time we stayed here, and get Chester neutered vaccinated and tested for heart worms. While Chester is at the animal hospital we live it up, eat out and explore the parts of the strip that we didn't last time. Even though a pet is a responsibility that sometimes keeps you from doing things you like, we did miss Chester and were happy to have him back as part of our family. Saturday we leave for Kingman, Ashfork, Prescott. We visit Steve Kimler, the father of Brad Kimler that sold us the trailer in Prescott. Steve is a sales pro with Lamb Chevrolet. No truck found yet. Then it's on to our beloved KOA (Kamp Ground of America) at Apache Junction. Where a very unpleasant surprise awaits us. We want to stay a month, while waiting for the new trailer to arrive. Sally, one of the "managers" is one tough cookie (she thinks)! Sally's take on people seems to be "They always lie and cheat those bastards, don't trust anyone!"  To make a very long story short. Sally treats us like unwanted criminals instead of guests, interrogates us as if we are aliens and has us jump through all kinds of loops and hoops and when all is done, paid for in advance and security deposit made, and ready to occupy site number 8 then explodes in a rage of anger and pulls the plug on the whole deal and kicks us off the KOA! Wow, I wonder why Sally is so afraid of, that she has to over compensate by being so mean to her guests and salary providers. I also wonder how Sally can get away with such behavior without the owner stepping in. Some people just don't seem to be made to deal with the public. We requested to talk to the owner and Sally even refused to ask the owner to come to the front desk. Fortunately we know that there is always a reason for the universe to create such situations and we end up at a wonderful dude ranch, where it's not so hustle and bustle and we are treated as welcomed guests by Ron, Jayne and Sue. The kids surprise mom with lots of love and treats for mothers day. Another interesting week passes by.

May 12 - 18, 2003
After doing our homework we decide, that a Chevy pick-up truck will serve our needs best. One hour later the phone rings and Brad Kimler from Beaudry RV Mesa, AZ is on the phone. Brad is all excited, because he has just the truck we want and Brad drives all the way from Mesa to Apache Junction to show it to us. Another example of the law of attraction, that my clients are all well aware of. When your energy level is high and you ask exactly for what you want, the universe provides it including home delivery. Also an example how being a "Purchasing Supporter" is much more successful than being a "Sales Professional". Call Brad Kimler at (480) 644-0330 to learn how he does it. We had planed on getting a rent-a-car and searching for a truck on Wednesday and Thursday now we can use the rent-a-car to get the cashiers check over to Beaudry and go shopping for a matching camper top. I strongly believe, that if we had thought about the camper top earlier and asked for it, this truck would have been delivered with it. We used the time we saved with this home delivery to shop around for a manufactured home and found one that exactly matches our needs. Then we went to Cook Insurance and bought insurance for the truck and stopped by the local Laundromat to wash clothes. It's very efficient to run 5 machines at once! What usually takes half a day is done in one hour. Saturday is the big day when we actually take possession of the truck and naturally we enjoy this additional gained freedom and mobility by cruising around, shopping and looking for property and at stick built model homes. Had some very interesting talks with good people here at the OK Corral. Ron Feldman, the owner is selling his other home up in Pine, so if you are interested or know someone, call Ron at (480) 982-4040. All in all a very quiet, yet successful week.

May 19 - 25, 2003
In general this was a quiet and relaxed week. We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of our new trailer and kill time with activities like shopping, scheduling dentist appointments, horse back riding, tour with realtor to get a feel for property in this area, installing the new camper shell that covers the bed of our truck, Laundromat. We enjoy the freedom that our new pick-up truck provides. Ursula and Nicole are getting used to driving the truck. Its getting warm around here, 105F with 10% humidity, I love it!

May 26 - June 1, 2003
Memorial day we stayed put while many others were on the road. It's great to live anti-cyclic. Ursula got up in the morning with a strong urge to explore Florida. Most of the day we did research regarding Florida. Tuesday Remo and I go on a mission to the local library to obtain books and videos about Florida. It's also the day of Nicole's and Sheila's dental appointment. All goes well and since they have been taking very good care of their teeth, the dentist doesn't charge the full amount. I decide to pass on the rebate to Nicole and Sheila since they earned it. I'd rather give it to them to the dentist. Wednesday we celebrate Remo's 12th birthday by going on a tour of the Apache Trail Treasure Map. After leaving the OK Corral we hit the Mining Camp Restaurant where the local news station, channel 3 is doing a newscast, then it's on to Goldfield Ghost Town with it's very interesting museum. They show a video made for the TV show Treasures that covers the history of the Lost Dutchman Mine. Ron Feldman the owner of the OK Corral where we are staying, and his sons Jessie and Josh are part of the cast. Ron has 30 years of extensive expertise about the Lost Dutchman Mine under his belt, and is the author of multiple books regarding this subject. His latest is called "Crooked Mountain" (The Legend Continues) ISBN 1-930685-08-4. The kids are excited that they received one of Ron's books with a hand written memo in it. Next stop is Canyon Lake and it's Marina where we feast on some Birthday Burgers and Hot-Dogs, while watching people board the Dolly Steamboat. After a short drive it's time to visit Tortilla Flat with it's authentic restaurant. The bar stools are made of horse saddles and the walls are covered with thousands of one dollar and foreign currency bills that have funny quotes written on them by the donators. I am glad, that the US Government is looking the other way and lets this unique wallpaper decorate the walls of the old fashion saloon. (They could be upset about tampering or destroying federal property.) The next 22 miles over dirt roads, it's on to the second of the three lakes we will be visiting today to Apache Lake. On our way Remo receives a few phone calls from friends and relatives that congratulate him to his birthday. We arrive at Roosevelt Dam, the world's largest mason block dam. Memories of the many dams we visited in Switzerland come alive. Then we drive over Roosevelt Lake Suspension Bridge, the longest two lane single span steel arch suspension bridge in North America. We enjoy a few hours of swimming in Roosevelt Lake. Chester our puppy has a blast chasing after sticks we throw into the lake. We are very impressed by the huge Copper Mining Industry in Globe and Miami (Arizona, not Florida) on our way back to Apache Junction. Thursday morning is laundry time and after I wash the truck in the afternoon we get hit by a huge dust storm in the evening that started out in Tucson due to some thunderstorms and headed north to Phoenix and Scottsdale. 35 miles wide and speeds of up to 60 mph! We are glad that it's "only" dust and not sand. Friday we get some groceries and get hit yet by another dust storm. This time we were prepared. Saturday we head up to Canyon Lake for more swimming, and the place is packed. That's why I like the concept of anti-cyclic action. Sunday it's time to go to the movies to see "Finding Nemo".

June 2 - 8, 2003
Nicole and Sheila go for another two hour horseback ride while the rest of us do laundry and get the truck washed. Insurance for the new trailer is purchased and we bid the Feldman's farewell. Thursday is the big day to take delivery of the trailer. I drive our old, yet beloved Fleetwood Bounder and Ursula follows in the Pick-up truck. Most of Thursday and after staying the night until Friday we are busy inspecting, testing, repairing and loading the new trailer. It is sad to say good-bye to our old Bounder, however letting go of the past is a must in order to evolve. Beaudry RV in Mesa lost our special order, and went ahead and ordered what they thought we wanted. It didn't turn out too bad, but was a very disappointing experience. Our trailer now has options we didn't want and others that we ordered are missing. We know there is a reason this turned out this way and look forward to seeing why. Friday afternoon all the warranty repairs on the brand new trailer are completed and we have an exciting, yet safe trip from Mesa to Tucson. Saturday it's time to visit Camping World, since the new rig needs accessories. Next stop is Tombstone. Not quite what we had expected, I think our expectations where too high. That's what happens, when not living in the present. Those expectations always cause grief and disappointment. We stay the night in Deming, New Mexico and Sunday after a long but pleasant drive make it to Fort Stockton, Texas. The truck and trailer did very well and we love the additional space that the slide-out provides.

June 9 - 15, 2003
Monday its time for an oil change. Tuesday we travel from Fort Stockton, TX to Austin. Wednesday and Thursday we tour in and around Austin and like Dripping Springs, a short drive west of Austin, the best. Friday we make it back to Beaumont, TX and stay at the Gulf Coast Resort. We are now as far East as we made it a few months ago. From here on East its all new territory. Saturday we hit New Orleans and Sunday its all the way through Mississippi and Alabama into Florida to Mexico Beach, a small town South-West of Tallahassee. Most of this last week we dealt with thunder storms of various degrees. A new experience after four years of dry San Diego weather.

June 16 – 22, 2003
Monday the family enjoys the beautiful white sand and turquoise clear water of Panama City Beach, Florida while I watch our dog Chester (he's not allowed on the beach) and take care of business. The rest of the week it rains cats and dogs all week long. The news shows many rivers rising and flooding roads and homes. So much for “The Sunshine State” that we see on most license plates. Tuesday we move on through Tallahassee to Madison. Wednesday we stay in Daytona Beach and explore the Atlantic Ocean. Thursday we make it to Tampa, where we stay and explore the University and possible regions to live near Tampa, Saint Petersburg and Clearwater. The University yet the rest of this region is metropolitan and we decide to explore other areas of Florida before spending too much time here.

June 23 - 29, 2003
Another washed out week in Fort Myers. It seems the universe doesn't want us to feel at home here in Florida. Everywhere we go it seems to rain cats and dogs. It's time to move on to Madison near Tallahassee and then to Fort Walton Beach near Destin. We are able to get a site 100 yards from the white sand beach which is very pleasing to the family. However tropical storm "Bill" is heading towards Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico is choppy with strong rip currents. The red flag is up, meaning swimming prohibited. More wind, thunderstorms and rain, while we wait for storm "Bill" to move North. At least, the new trailer with one slide-out provides more breathing room, so we don't get on each others nerves too much.

June 30 - July 6, 2003
After a wet and stormy escape out of tropical storm "Bill" we make it to Baton Rouge, LA and stay to dry out a bit. Then it's on to Beaumont, TX to pick up some long expected mail and take care of some eBiz. We meet some nice people during the free breakfast. Thursday we arrive very late in Boerne (north of San Antonio on I-10) after swimming through multiple very strong thunderstorms. We have now named our trucky "Rubber Ducky". Friday we enjoy and celebrate independence day with the locales. After more rain it clears up enough to watch the beautiful fireworks at the fairgrounds of Boerne. Saturday and Sunday we explore the area NW of San Antonio.

July 7 - 13, 2003
This week Texas has been showing its sunny and warm side, finally! We are working with a Realtor to find land to place a manufactured home or build on or a home to move into in the Helotes, TX area. So far not much luck. Most land has restrictions regarding manufactured homes unless you go way out in the boon docks. Building new will take approx. half a year, getting into winter and Schools here in Texas begin on August 18. One offer on an old house that we made was counter offered and accepted without giving us a chance to counter offer. So we make an offer on another house and are waiting for a response from them. Looks like the weather will be deteriorating next week as yet another tropical storm (!) "Claudette" comes our way.

July 14 - 20, 2003
Claudette brings lots of rain and some gusty, but not too strong winds. No major issues. Monday no news regarding our offer, Tuesday they counter offer with outrageous conditions, Wednesday we decide to pack up and leave the San Antonio area, since it seems that the universe doesn't want us to settle down here. Thursday we bid Boerne and San Antonio farewell and head south on I-37 towards Corpus Christi. For a "one night stay" and then on to Port Isabel north-east of Brownsville. However as we arrive in Corpus Christi we surf the internet "just for fun" and find out that it is possible to live on Padre Island, close to the beach or channel and that there is a University that will meet our Kids needs. What a pleasant surprise! Friday, Saturday and Sunday is occupied with getting to know the Island better and comparing house values.

July 21 - 27, 2003
We find a brand new house to call home and close escrow Thursday. The contractor takes care of some last minute touch-ups. Lots of fun buying new stuff, ordering utilities, purchasing insurance etc. And in between all of that we enjoy long walks along the beach and swimming in the very warm water of the Gulf of Mexico. Both within walking distance of our new home. The universe definitely wanted this house for us, and all happened in lightning speed.

July 28 - August 3, 2003
The furniture has arrived and most boxes have been unpacked. Still too much personal stuff, so we are eliminating rigorously. Lots to do, more shopping for household items, pest control, Sparkletts bottled water, Time-Warner roadrunner high speed internet, watering the lawn, getting documents to sign-up the kids for school, etc. etc. Thursday we had a nice pizza dinner at the local pizza restaurant. All for free, because our realtor Sandy Sands gave us a gift certificate. The trip has come to an end, at least for the moment.

------------------------  HAPPY  END (for now) ------------------------------------------

2 MONTH ROAD TOUR SUMMER 2004 (May 28, 2004 - August 15, 2004)
By Sheila Ruegg (16), Draft in Progress

May 27 - May 30, 2004
Today we finished packing everything we need for our Summer 2004 Road trip with our RV.
We arrived at the Colonia Del Rey RV Park in Flour Bluff Corpus Christi later than we expected but with still enough time to get settled down and celebrate Remo's 13th Birthday and Nicole's (19) High-School Graduation with dinner at our favorite Chinese Restaurant.
Remo turned 13 today, May 28!
-Nik rehearsal
-new tires for Truck
-house
-Remos birthday party cake presents
-dressed up for Niks High School Graduation
-graduation
-back to trailer
-Nik and Shil funtrackers for Operation Graduation, lock-in from midnight until 05:30 a.m. the next morning.
-Dad picked us up at Funtrackers at 5:30 a.m.!
-brought Nik and mom to airport for their trip to Switzerland.
-wanted to extend our stay at Rv park
-were booked b/c of Memorial day weekend
-hooked up and started to head to San Antonio
-noticed something wrong with trailer stopped at Diamond Shamrock Gas Station
-the electric cable that connects the truck and trailer got cut
-had to wait a while for repair guy which gave us a chance to catch up on some desperatly needed sleep
-was able to fix it left toward San Antonio
-arrived in Boerne, Texas small town just north of San Antonio
-staying in Alamo Fiesta Rv Resort
-settled down walked Chester -relaxed, played boardgames got some errands done.

May 31 - June 6, 2004
Left Boerne, Tx drove to Fort Stockton Koa, went swimmng walked Chester etc.
-delayed start to get to El Paso bc of Chester vomit!
-American RV and Marine Park in anthony small town close to El Paso)
-DUSTSTORM!
-Puppy Chester to vet!
-drove to tucson arizona (long trip)
-time change
-arrived Beaudry Rv Resort (dry and hot climate)
-lots of laundry
-drove to El Centro, California very hot here 105F!!
-Puppy Chester feels much better!

June 7 - June 13, 2004

June 14 - June 20, 2004

June 21 - June 27, 2004

June 28 - July 4, 2004

July 5 - July 11, 2004

July 12 - July 18, 2004

July 19 - July 25, 2004

July 26 - August 1, 2004

August 2 - August 8, 2004

August 9 -August 15, 2004