#RV Touring Map

[licencedtoretire]

Pauanui Dharling!

First off, yes! I know I have spelt darling incorrectly but for those of us who lived in Auckland in the 80’s and 90’s Pauanui was, and to some extent still is the playground of the rich and famous. A familiar catch cry could be heard through the suburbs of Remuera and Herne Bay as the weekend drew closer “we are off to Pauanui Dharling” when asked what they were doing. Not being part of the rich…

[myenterpriseisparked]

Rank the Star Trek captains based on whether or not they're expert road trippers

Archer - He tries. So hard. He burns a CD mixtape to listen to and rents a huge RV that only kind of works. He plans out a bunch of stops but "leaves room in the schedule for unplanned adventures :)" and then proceeds to not follow the plan at all and everything goes wrong. Actually, now that I think about it, Archer on a roadtrip would probably just mostly be the plot of the movie "RV."

Pike - He lets Una plan the stops and he METICULOUSLY plans the food. He and Una take a survey about what all their crew wants to see along the way and try so hard to integrate them all into the trip. He plays LOTS of car games, like Eye Spy or that one game where you count animals on your side of the vehicle until you see a graveyard and have to start over or that other game where you describe a movie plot badly and everyone has to guess what it is. He lets Uhura control the music and Spock read the map and Ortegas drive. The plan for the trip goes off the rails, of course, but everyone ends up having a blast anyway. Overall a SOLID roadtrip.

Kirk - Kirk takes everyone to see every single tourist trap they can find and, you know what? It's fun. Is the World's Largest Truckstop really all that special? No, but the memories they make there are. I also imagine his roadtrip largely takes place in Iowa and other parts of the Midwest so a lot of the trip is rolling cornfields. Overall not a terrible trip, if a little slow and nutty.

Picard - Due to being European, Picard's idea of a roadtrip is a little... different. The crew is a little confused as to why they are only doing about 3 hours of driving a day, but they do appreciate that it's through Wine Country, where the rolling hills are lovely. I imagine Picard plans a "themed trip" (wine tasting and touring) and Riker is the one to throw in the fun tourist traps they do end up visiting. Q is somehow at every single place they stop. Lwaxana is at a few of them too.

Sisko - Sisko takes everyone on a tour of the MLB baseball fields. He meticulously plans places to eat (mostly cajun places that he critiques as 'not as good as his dad's, but acceptable.') and fields to visit. In the meantime, Jadzia picks some more... colorful places to visit in the evenings. Different groups of people get lost but they always find each other. Everyone is a little wary of visiting baseball fields, but once they find out that it was Jake's idea to cheer his dad up, everyone acts like each field is the most fascinating thing they have ever seen. In the end, the trip is a little tedious, but they have all bonded over the solidarity of making Sisko feel better.

Janeway - Janeway drives through the middle of nowhere. Absolutely no cell signal ever. Google Maps will not work. They stop every hour or so to look at the sights. At several points, their van gets robbed and they have to craft new supplies as they go. They make some "road enemies" (other roadtrippers that get competitive about parking spots and camping areas and stuff) and get in several fights (that they win). They camp alongside the road instead of staying in hotels and it's kinda miserable but it builds a lot of relationships and character. Their van breaks down a lot but they always fix it themselves. B'Elanna ends up souping up the engine about 4 different times. In the end, they all get home pretty much dead on their feet, but the whole crew is planning the next road trip anyway.

Freeman - She has a schedule that no one follows and she yells about it a lot. The road trip keeps getting completely derailed. They absolutely do not hit any planned stops and they have to replace each of the van's tires 3 times. Good news, however, is that they got a GREAT sale on all the trinkets and stuff that they bought along the way so everyone is still having an okay time.

Dal - Barely has a plan. He basically piled everyone in a vehicle one day and started driving. They stop whenever they feel like it and do odd jobs to earn enough money to keep going. The end goal is to reach San Francisco by the end, but Dal has to keep them backtracking for various reasons and they're having a heck of a time understanding exactly how this brand-new Chevy Silverado with a fancy computer system that they accidentally stole works. Everyone has fun anyway, even though they are also kinda lowkey running from the cops.

Burnham - I don't honestly know enough about Burnham as a captain to say for sure but I think she and Saru would plan a pretty chaotic lil road trip that kinda jumps all over the country in a strange order. Lots of zigzags and backtracking and stuff. I think they have fun though?

FINAL RANKING:

1st Place - Pike

2nd Place - Kirk

3rd Place - Janeway

4th Place - Sisko

5th Place - Archer

6th Place - Burnham

7th Place - Picard

8th Place - Dal

9th Place - Freeman

[slashify]

Steve finally gets his RV.

It’s not a Winnebago, but it’s nice enough. Sleeps six if two sleep in the bunk above the cab and two sleep on the bed formed by the dinette converting into one.

Eddie comes along, and Steve doesn’t predict that Wayne comes along too. Eddie’s uncle doesn’t want him out of his sight. The government hush money guarantees that Wayne won’t have to work anymore, and Eddie tells Steve he’s glad because Wayne’s back and knees aren’t what they used to be. They don’t have enough room for all of the kids, so this trip is just Dustin. Claudia loves Steve and she trusts him with her Dusty-Bun.

They’d wanted Wayne to take the bed over the cab, but he opts for the couch, saying he doesn’t want to climb the ladder every night. Dustin calls the dinette, so that leaves Steve and Eddie sharing the over-cab bed. At least two of them snore, but they buy earplugs.

They head to Utah so Dustin can see Suzie.

Missouri and Kansas blow by in a blur of excitement. They point out every animal and oddity they see along the way, Wayne smiling at his boy’s enthusiasm.

Colorado is their first taste of the southwest. Eddie buys Wayne a bolo tie with a turquoise stone. Steve buys an amethyst ring for Robin, a rose quartz barrette for Nancy. They pool their money to get a nice southwestern-patterned blanket for Dustin’s mom.

Steve drives them up to Mesa Verde, taking turns as cautiously as possible. Dustin geeks out over the ruins and takes control of the map, ordering Steve from viewpoint to viewpoint like a very pushy tour guide.

The drive into Utah is beautiful. A gradual shift to huge red rocks. Eddie begs him to stop at a roadside attraction called the Hole N” The Rock and they take the tour there.

It takes them a while to get to Susie’s house in Salt Lake City. They stop a few times along the way. Eddie pouts at Steve at a fossil shop and walks away with a weird little fossilized creature that Eddie and Dustin inform him is called a trilobite.

When they get to Susie’s house she’s waiting outside reading a book, but she jumps to her feet when she sees Dustin. He twirls her around and they laugh together and Steve glances at Eddie and thinks that this is what he wanted all along.

[suicide-kermit]

Kermit arrived in Taos early Monday morning and left early Thursday morning. His first stop was Black Rock Hot Springs, a natural hot spring running out of the mountain and into the Rio Grande.

It was a quarter mile hike, made very difficulty by large boulders and loose rocks. The hot springs were very small, two pools filled with slippery, jagged, algae covered rocks.

The first pool was as warm as a hot tub, and the second was pleasantly warm. The river by contrast was nearly freezing despite and heat.

The pools were a bit shallow due to the rocks, so Kermit's handler tried to swim in the freezing river. The river was also rocky, and she slipped a number of times, falling straight into the freezing river and banging herself up.

She swam for an hour while fishermen patrolled the opposite shore. Eventually she moved back to the spring. She met a family who lived in the area. A little later a man in his seventies hiked down (a retired engineer who'd been living in his RV for seven years). Both gave Kermit a list of must see places, and the man effectively mapped Kermit's post-taos route for him on the fly!

The other hikers and van-lifers were some of the nicest people Kermit met. As he explored the town and Pueblo, the local artists and native americans seemed genuinely joyed to ask Kermit and the other tourists about their travels, where he was headed, and where they came from.

At the Pueblo, a Tiwa man with one arm who sold dream catchers made from the sinew of deer he himself killed told Kermit about life in the Pueblo. His shop was one room in a large, communal adobe house which was once his grandmother's. You can see the sign for his shop below!

At the Pueblo Kermit also took a tour. The tiwa tour guide discussed the history of the pueblo: how it had once been a thriving community, surrounded by a ten foot wall to repel invaders, but how it had suffered due to Spanish colonization and later, the U.S. army. She said that following the murder of the governor by revolting natives, a U.S. general dispatched Kit Carson to deal with the uprising. The Tiwa women and children hid in the church, which was then burned by the army. The church pictured is one that was built after the other burned.

The tour guide explained how some Tiwa still live in the Pueblo today, though many only came back for festivals. It is the responsibility of the families who the adobe homes have passed to to maintain them, as they must be remudded every two to three years, which involved scrapping the outer layer of mud and mixing it back into a paste to spread over the bricks. Kermit got to see this process while he was there!

After the Pueblo Kermit stopped at the Jon Dunn Bridge, which stretched over the Rio Grande.

After the bridge, Kermit went to the Taos Skit valley, where he splurged on a ski lift ticket. He rode the lift at least three times! It afforded the most wonderful view of the pine-covered mountains. The workers there were extremely friendly, and we're very excited to tell Kermit about living and working at the ski valley, and told Kermit about the most beautiful parts of the mountain.

Stay tuned for Taos part two!

[spellucci]

The Ferry

Saturday, June 17, 2023

Tim and Dora walk over the hill and down to the beach first thing in the morning. The place is hopping. Birds are wheeling everywhere. The thunderheads are boiling and reaching higher and higher into the sky, but they are dark gray because the sun has not come up yet. A few dolphins ply the waves well off shore. And near in, two surfers try to find something to ride in the one foot surf. They wait patiently for that perfect 18-in wave.

We have a leisurely coffee and breakfast, and still make the short drive over to the ferry dock in plenty of time to make the 10:15 Cape May / Lewes ferry to Cape May.

Jeanne has been concerned about Dora getting sunburned. Instead of searching for hard-to-find and expensive canine sunscreen, she picks up a package of baby onesies at Walmart. Dora looks fetching in pink, and it protects her back well.

The ferry captain needs to know where the longest and heaviest vehicles are, so of the 25 or so lanes to line up for the ferry, they put those vehicles first in each lane. We qualify. We wind up being fourth on the boat.

Tim climbs the ladder to perch himself on top of the RV and get a good view of the launch. The captains voice comes over the loudspeaker saying, "Keep your feet firmly on the deck, and no climbing on vehicles." Busted, Tim climbs back down.

At precisely 10:15, the horn sounds, and we leave port for the 1 and 1/2 hour trip to Cape May. The thrusters are aft, and we are all the way forward, so we hear very little other than the sound of ocean waves lapping at the hull.

We discuss how soothing it is to the soul to be out on the ocean. In the past we have talked about getting a boat to live on, but that means docking at various marinas, and marina life is not for us. Besides, where would Dora go pee?

As the ferry approaches the New Jersey dock, we see two kitesurfers off Higbee Beach.

Today is a town day. When we land we find an Acme supermarket close by and go grocery shopping. Then we do laundry in a nice air conditioned laundromat nearby.

Tim's cousins are expected between 3:00 and 5:00. It's still early, so we head over to the big grassy field at the Cape May lighthouse to play squeaker in the grass with Dora. She's eager at first, but it's very hot. Soon she starts returning the ball to the shade under a park bench. Eventually, on her own volition, she picks up the squeaker and heads back across the grass to the shade and water in the RV.

Ice cream beckons. We use Google Maps to identify a parlor down by the waterfront. It looks like it has vegan ice cream that Jeanne can eat. Just as we set out, we get word that the cousins arrive. Ice cream or cousins? Ice cream for dinner wins. Yum!

Thus refreshed, we head over to where everyone has collected at the Brookline cousin's house. We have a pleasant reunion under the cool shade of a screen porch. We bring a squeaker to entertain Dora while the grown ups talk. The youngest, a toddler, and Dora vie for who can get to the squeaker first. We break out a second squeaker to maintain the peace.

The Philadelphia cousins head over to their place to put the little ones to bed. There is no on street camping permitted at Cape May, and the Brookline cousins have no driveway. We ask the Philadelphia cousins if we can park in their driveway. They graciously say yes, and welcome us with a tour of the house as we arrive.

[secretswiftymarvelfan]

I'm going crazy in those asks today haha

irish breakfast:what country do you want to visit?

25. Describe your year so far with a gif.

Memories: Ever met a famous person?

yes we love it when we go crazy on asks!

Irish breakfast: what country do you want to visit?

I have so many countries I wanna visit! I literally have a map above my bed off all the countries I've been to and the ones I want to go to!

I'd love to go to Thailand because I was supposed to go easter 2020 and we can all guess what stopped that! I'd love to go back to America and visit the New England area because I've always loved it and was so jealous when my parents went to Boston on a no kids holiday! I'd also love to go to greece because Percy Jackson! I'd also love to do a tour of Italy and just hire a RV and drive from the north down to the south!

25. Describe your year so far with a gif.

NGL its started off really shit and slowly got better but its still very up and down so far!

Memories: Ever met a famous person?

I've had a couple of run ins yes, I used to have the same hairdresser as Richard Hammond so would see him occasionally. I've also nearly run over Dom Joly (not my fault he just stepped out in front of me) and I've bumped into Steven Mulhern, and does sitting less than a meter away from Sandi Toskvik count? and I've known the drummer from Sundara Karma since I was in nappies!

my dad is the one with the most famous connections though from his London Band days, I swear almost every music documentary we watch he'll point someone out and say oh he invited me to an illegal rave once, or i have him on facebook!

send me some cute, tea, ethereal asks!

[dream-world-universe]

RV Lance ois the research vessel of Polarinstituttet, the Norwegian Polar Research Institute. Here at the Svalbard archipelago (Adventfjorden)

RV Lance - Wikidata

Norwegian Research Vessel R/V Lance

The Norwegian research vessel R/V Lance as captured by the Digital Mapping System during an Operation IceBridge flight on March 19, 2015.

The Norwegian research vessel R/V Lance as captured by the Digital Mapping System during an Operation IceBridge flight on March 19, 2015. IceBridge flew over a survey field established by a science team aboard the Lance as part of the airborne mission’s Arctic 2015 campaign. Credits: NASA/IceBridge/DMS

Link to associated news item

Norwegian Research Vessel R/V Lance - NASA

RV Lance - An Important Norwegian Marine Vessel

"The Lance was launched in 1978 as a combined fishing and sealing vessel for arctic waters. At the time she proved too large and expensive to run, and her career as a fishing vessel was brief. Seeing Lance’s potential for other tasks, the Norwegian Hydrographic Service acquired her in 1981, and she was rebuilt to meet requirements as a hydrographic survey vessel also suitable for research, expeditions and oil recovery purposes. She was rebuilt again in 1992 to meet requirements for research expeditions in the Antarctic and the Arctic. The Norwegian Hydrographic Service operated Lance until 1994, using her both as a survey vessel and as a research vessel for the Norwegian Polar Institute and other institutions. In 1994 she was handed over to the Norwegian Polar Institute. In the period 1995-2000 Lance also served as a coastguard vessel in the Barents Sea for parts of the year (hence the grey colour scheme in some pictures)." - from the Lance website.

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet up with two APECS Council members, Alexey Pavlov (Russia) and Ella Darlington (UK) after they returned from a cruise in the Arctic onboard the Norwegian ship, the R/V Lance. Alexey and Ella along with Paul Dodd gave me a nice tour of this old, but sturdy vessel, which perhaps some of you have been on. 

Association of Polar Early Career Scientists - RV Lance - An Important Norwegian Marine Vessel (apecs.is)

The Norwegian research vessel Lance is stuck in the Arctic ice, 2015

[sucharitadas]

Popular recreational outdoor activities 2024

Several trends in outdoor recreational activities have gained popularity in recent years, driven by the desire for adventure, wellness, and eco-consciousness. Here are some of the key trends:

1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Adventures

Eco-Tourism: Travelers seek sustainable and environmentally friendly activities like wildlife conservation tours and low-impact hiking.

Leave No Trace: More outdoor enthusiasts are adhering to principles that minimize environmental impact, promoting clean-up hikes and responsible camping.

2. Adventure Sports for Beginners

Accessible Adventure: Activities like zip-lining, beginner rock climbing, and via ferrata (protected climbing routes) make extreme sports more accessible to all skill levels.

Soft Adventure: Activities that offer a taste of thrill without significant physical demands, such as scenic paddleboarding, e-biking, and guided nature walks, are growing in popularity.

3. Wellness-Oriented Outdoor Activities

Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku): A Japanese practice of immersing oneself in nature for mental and physical health benefits.

Yoga Retreats in Nature: Outdoor yoga sessions, combined with hiking or camping, are increasingly sought after for mindfulness and relaxation.

Meditative Hikes: Hikes with a focus on mental health and mindfulness are becoming popular, especially in serene landscapes.

4. Technology-Enhanced Outdoor Experiences

Smart Gear: Wearable tech like fitness trackers, GPS devices, and smartwatches with trail mapping capabilities are widely used by outdoor enthusiasts.

Outdoor Apps: Apps that help navigate trails, identify wildlife, and connect adventurers to remote spots are trending.

Virtual Adventure Experiences: For those unable to get outside, VR experiences of activities like climbing or biking are emerging.

5. Micro-Adventures and Weekend Escapes

Micro-Adventures: Short, local, or budget-friendly trips (e.g., overnight camping, day hikes) are gaining traction among those with limited time.

Urban Outdoor Activities: More people are seeking adventure in or near cities through urban hiking, climbing gyms, and cycling.

6. Multi-Sport and Hybrid Adventures

Adventure Racing: Combining running, cycling, paddling, and sometimes climbing, these races test endurance across multiple outdoor sports.

Bikepacking: A combination of cycling and backpacking, where participants carry camping gear on their bikes for multi-day journeys.

7. Group and Social Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Social Clubs: Groups for shared hiking, biking, or climbing experiences are on the rise, particularly those aimed at beginners.

Women-Centric Outdoor Activities: Women-focused adventure groups and programs are fostering a sense of community and empowerment in traditionally male-dominated activities.

8. Overlanding and Off-the-Grid Adventures

Overlanding: Traveling long distances in off-road vehicles, equipped for self-sufficient living, has become a favorite for those wanting rugged, off-the-grid experiences.

Van Life/RV Travel: Living and traveling in converted vans or RVs has surged, offering a mobile, adventure-filled lifestyle.

9. Winter and Cold Weather Sports Growth

Winter Hiking and Fat Biking: As people seek ways to enjoy the outdoors year-round, activities like winter hiking and cycling on snow using fat-tire bikes are becoming more common.

Backcountry Skiing and Snowshoeing: Skiing and snowshoeing off the beaten path have grown as people look for solitude and natural beauty away from crowded resorts.

10. Family-Friendly and Pet-Inclusive Adventures

Pet-Friendly Travel: More people are including their pets in outdoor adventures, choosing trails, parks, and activities that accommodate their furry friends.

Family Adventure Parks: Parks offering zip lines, obstacle courses, and climbing walls are growing as family-friendly destinations.

These trends show a shift toward sustainable, wellness-focused, and inclusive outdoor experiences, many of which Adventure Rocks can capitalize on by designing and promoting eco-conscious, accessible, and family-friendly adventure equipment.

[glacierresort]

Finding the Perfect Lodging in Glacier National Park: A Map and Guide

Glacier National Park, often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent," offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures in the United States. When planning a trip to this majestic park, selecting the right lodging is crucial. This blog will guide you through the options for lodging in Glacier National Park, with a focus on the Glacier Haven Resort, and provide tips on how to use a map to find the perfect spot for your stay.

Exploring Glacier National Park Lodging Options

Types of Lodging Available

Hotels and Lodges: There are several hotels and lodges within and near Glacier National Park, ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly options.

Cabins and Cottages: For a more rustic and intimate experience, consider staying in one of the park's many cabins or cottages.

Campgrounds and RV Parks: Outdoor enthusiasts may prefer the park's numerous campgrounds and RV parks, which offer a closer connection to nature.

Glacier Haven Resort

Located near the park, Glacier Haven Resort offers a variety of lodging options, including cabins and RV sites, making it a convenient and comfortable base for exploring Glacier National Park.

Using a Map to Choose Your Lodging

Identifying Key Locations

Entrance Proximity: When looking at a map of Glacier National Park, identify lodging options that are close to the park's entrances for easier access to the main attractions.

Scenic Views: Consider lodging locations that offer stunning views of the park's landscapes, such as those near Lake McDonald or Many Glacier.

Glacier Haven Resort on the Map

Strategic Location: Glacier Haven Resort is strategically located near the park's west entrance, making it a perfect spot for accessing popular sites like the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Nearby Attractions: The resort is also close to other attractions, such as Flathead National Forest and Hungry Horse Reservoir, providing additional opportunities for adventure.

Lodging Features and Amenities

Comfort and Convenience

Variety of Accommodations: Glacier Haven Resort offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to spacious RV sites, catering to different preferences and group sizes.

Modern Amenities: Enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi, fully-equipped kitchens in cabins, and laundry facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Outdoor Activities

Guided Tours: The resort can help arrange guided tours and activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Recreational Facilities: On-site recreational facilities, such as picnic areas and barbecue grills, allow guests to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Tips for Choosing the Best Lodging

Plan Ahead

Early Reservations: Given the popularity of Glacier National Park, it's essential to book your lodging well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Check Availability: Regularly check the availability of your preferred lodging options and make reservations as soon as possible.

Consider Your Needs

Group Size: Ensure that the lodging you choose can comfortably accommodate your group, whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends.

Preferred Amenities: Make a list of must-have amenities, such as Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, or pet-friendly options, and select lodging that meets these requirements.

Budget Wisely

Compare Rates: Use the map to compare rates of different lodging options in and around Glacier National Park to find one that fits your budget.

Factor in Travel Costs: Consider the cost of traveling to and from the park entrances and major attractions when choosing your lodging location.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect lodging in Glacier National Park involves careful planning and consideration of your needs and preferences. By using a map to identify strategic locations and exploring options like Glacier Haven Resort, you can ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Glacier Haven Resort offers a variety of accommodations and amenities, making it an excellent choice for visitors. For more information and to book your stay, visit Glacier Haven Resort.

Plan your trip today and experience the stunning beauty and adventure that Glacier National Park has to offer!

[duncandatrunk]

Part 2 of that fanfic I wanted to write, still unrecognizable as fanfic and is just short fiction

Jen had the unique privilege of being a human version of an unlucky penny. Little Jen, left behind and passed over constantly by her parents. They had forgotten her at a rest stop in the middle of nowhere. They had pulled away without her while she was in the bathroom. She sat quietly at a flimsy wooden picnic table bolted to the concrete of the rest stop. She had tried screaming to get their attention as they were driving off, but the radio from the front of the vehicle drowned her out. 

This wasn’t the first time she’d been abandoned without anyone seeming to care or notice. In Indiana they’d left her alone in the RV for two days to go on some tour of Lake Michigan. When they came back she’d been so relieved that she had refused to let go of her mother’s arm until they threatened to lock her in the bedroom. Then there was the gas station in Illinois where they’d driven off to get dinner without her. She’d sprinted across a four lane highway to get back to them. 

This was it. Jen was done playing catch up. Even if her parents noticed their daughter was not in the back of the RV there was practically zero chance that they would care enough to turn around. She stood up and walked over to the bathroom. There was a map pinned inside a plexiglass case on the outside of the small wooden building. According to the map the nearest town was fifteen miles down the road, but if she cut through the woods there was a town about two miles east of the rest stop. It was along the edge of a river, meaning if she missed the town she could just walk up the riverbank until she found it. 

She made up her mind and walked into the woods towards Anslem. 

…

It had been about two hours since Jen left the rest stop and she was hopelessly lost. She should have made it to the river by now, but the trees seemed to stretch endlessly all around her. Adding insult to injury, the weather had taken a turn for the worse. The sky was covered in angry gray clouds which choked out the sunlight and spit rain down on the ground below. 

Jen was cold, wet, and more than a little scared of the growing darkness. She kept moving, hoping to see the lights of Anslem in between the trees. A bolt of lightning struck one of the trees near her. Momentarily blinded she screamed and fell backwards onto the ground. As her vision cleared she saw a figure standing in between the trees.

“Hello? Is someone there?” she said, yelling to be heard over the rain. 

She could barely see through the dark and the rain, but she could make out the silhouette as it turned and started towards her. 

“I’m lost, could you help me? I was trying to get to Anslem but I got turned around. Do you live there? Are we close to town?”

There was no response from the figure as it steadily approached through the darkened trees. It was about ten feet away now. Close enough that Jen could see some details. 

The person, if it was a person, was wearing an animal skin.  It was covered in grime and red stains, with several large holes that had been sewn together or patched with some sort of tanned leather. The pelt draped over their body like a toga, tied at the waist with some sort of black thread. Their hair was long and black, soaked with rain. They were holding a large hunting knife in one hand and reaching out with the other. 

Another thunderbolt struck and in the brief flash of light she could see the thing’s face. Its eyes were beady and sunken into its skill like the eyes of a mole. Its teeth were sharpened to points. 

She screamed and jumped backwards as the thing lunged at her with its knife. The blade struck her wrist, slicing a strip of skin from her arm. The monster wiped the knife on its pelt, leaving the skin sticking to grimy fur. 

Jen turned and sprinted into the trees, blood dripping from her arm. The monster stayed where it was, watching her until the trees blocked its view. The muddy ground made running difficult. Almost every step forward she would slip and have to catch herself on a stone or tree. The tree roots seemed intentionally placed to catch her feet and trip her up. 

She turned to look back and tripped, falling to the ground. She hid at the base of a tree, completely drenched in mud. Breathing hard, she checked her arm. It was numb from the cold and drops of blood were dripping from her fingers. Mud had been packed into the cut, stopping the worst of the bleeding. She didn’t have anything to wrap it with so the mud would have to do. Her adrenaline and the cold kept her from feeling the pain. 

Jen tried to collect her thoughts. Priority one was getting out of the woods. If she made it to the river she could walk up the bank to town. There would be people there, they’d help her. She’d be warm and dry and have something to bandage her arm. All she had to do was keep walking. That was easy, she’d gone further before. 

“Just need to keep going,” she mumbled to herself. 

She stood up, her legs shaking from the cold and started walking. Now that she wasn’t trying to sprint the mud and roots provided less of an obstacle, tripping her up every five or six steps instead of every two or three. Lightning hit a tree nearby and something fell from the branches in a heap. Jen froze and watched as the smoldering pile lurched upright before shambling off into the woods. Before it made three steps the mole-eyed creature stepped from behind a tree to stab it. The pile didn’t seem to care and wrapped itself around the knife arm, trying to pull its opponent down into the mud. Jen didn’t stick around to see the fight. She walked off into the woods, praying that the two monsters would be too occupied to notice. 

As she moved she saw the glint of eyes between the trees. Dozens of voyeurs ready to pounce on her at the first opportunity. She steeled herself and kept walking, even as something jumped between the tree branches above her head. It slammed into a trunk with a bone crunching thump and kept moving. She didn’t look up to see what it was. 

She saw a light through the trees and almost cried with relief. She took off stumbling towards it, walking be damned. She broke through the treeline and her foot came down on empty air. The light, which she had thought was someone’s porch light, was actually a lantern on a pole hanging out over a cliff. She fell and for a split second her heart was in her throat. 

She landed hard in the silty muck at the bottom of the cliff. She laid there trying to catch her breath, but all she could do was take short gasps. The light at the top of the cliff moved closer and she saw a small spindly man holding the pole. He was scuttling slowly down towards her. Jen couldn’t move, she was stuck too deep in the mud. The man had made it to the base of the cliff, reaching out toward her with his too-long fingers. 

Just as he was about to grab her, a loud blast of thunder sounded. The man immediately ran back to the cliff and climbed up into the indistinct shaddows. Jen braced herself for something to come charging towards her, but nothing did. The only sound was the pounding of the rain. She slowly pulled herself from the muck. She was battered, bruised, and bleeding but she had to keep going. She started to trudge through the muck in her best guess at north but stopped when she heard someone singing. 

“Sunshiiiiiine on my shoulder makes me happy”

She looked around for the source of the music and saw a little yellow tape recorder half buried in the muck. 

“Sunshiiiiine almost always makes meeeeeee high” the tape belted out.

She looked around to make sure nothing was sneaking up on her and picked up the tape recorder. 

As soon as she touched the device the tape wirred to life “What’s the deal… shrk … little explorer?”

[wiackcom]

AAA, also known as the American Automobile Association, is a popular auto club that provides services like roadside assistance, travel planning, and discounts to its members. But with membership fees starting around $56 per year, is joining AAA worth it for your personal budget? This comprehensive guide examines the costs, benefits, services, and value AAA offers to help you decide if it's a smart investment for your money. Understanding AAA Services What Does AAA Provide? AAA is primarily known for its emergency roadside assistance, which sends aid for services like: Towing Tire changes Jump starts Lockout service Fuel delivery However, it offers several other key benefits beyond just roadside help: Travel planning and discounts - Members gain access to exclusive travel deals on hotels, flights, car rentals, tours, and more. AAA also provides free travel guides, trip planning tools, and maps. Insurance discounts - AAA members can save up to 15% on car insurance with select providers. Savings opportunities on life, home, and identity theft insurance are also available. DMV services - Renew your license and registration, request a new title, or conduct other DMV business at your local AAA branch. AAA Discount Rewards - Members earn points for purchases from AAA that can be redeemed for gift cards, merchandise, and travel rewards. Member-only savings - Gain access to special discounts and AAA rates at thousands of retailers, hotels, restaurants, theme parks, and other establishments. Clearly, the range of benefits spans far beyond just roadside assistance. But how much do these services actually cost with a AAA membership? Is AAA Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis AAA Membership Costs and Plans AAA offers different membership levels based on your coverage needs: AAA Classic - Starts at $56 per year. Includes 4 free roadside assistance calls per member. AAA Plus - Starts at $83 per year. Includes 100 miles of free towing, extricated services, free car battery service, and more. AAA Premier - Starts at $111 per year. Unlimited towing up to 200 miles and other upgraded services. Higher tier plans cost more but provide greater roadside assistance benefits. Additional members on the plan typically cost around $38 extra per person. There are also added fees like an $18 service charge if you run out of your allotted tows and call for additional service. Cancellation may carry a fee as well. Key factors that influence AAA's pricing include: Your location - Clubs in major metro areas tend to cost more. Vehicle type - Plans for RVs, motorcycles, and luxury vehicles cost extra. Distance from home - Upgrades provide farther towing distances. Family size - Additional members raise the price. While $56-$111 per year is not negligible, keep in mind a single tow can cost $50-$100 without AAA. The membership often pays for itself after just one or two roadside assistance calls. Next, let's examine the key pros and cons of AAA to weigh if it provides good overall value. How to Make the Most of Your AAA Membership Pros of AAA Membership AAA membership offers many valuable perks and protections: Convenience of Roadside Assistance Instead of fumbling with pay-per-use towing services after a breakdown, AAA members simply call the hotline and prompt aid arrives. The ability to quickly summon help provides major peace of mind. Cost Savings Between discounts on insurance, hotels, attractions, and other AAA program benefits, members can potentially save hundreds of dollars per year. This offsets the membership fee. Higher Quality Service AAA has stricter contractor guidelines than some low-cost towing alternatives. You may receive faster response times and higher caliber assistance. Access to Travel Bookings and Planning Tools AAA’s trip planning resources, tour bookings,

and exclusive travel deals can help you save money and stress when booking vacations and business travel. Members also enjoy savings on passport photos, international driving permits, and customized maps. AAA Branded Credit Cards Members can acquire AAA branded credit cards that offer perks like 3% cash back on travel and gas purchases and free additional roadside assistance calls. This further optimizes the value of membership. No Annual Fee for Additional Members Spouses, children, and other household members can be added to your AAA plan for around $38 per additional person per year. Considering regular membership costs over $56, adding family at no extra charge creates huge savings for multi-driver households. Ongoing Loyalty Rewards The AAA Discount Rewards program lets you earn points for purchases that translate into discounts on future membership renewals, gift cards, merchandise, and travel bookings made through AAA. Cons of AAA Membership However, there are some potential drawbacks of AAA to note: Membership Costs Can Add Up While the starting rates of $56-$111 per year are reasonable, costs creep up with extra members, further distances from home, and upgraded coverage tiers. Be sure to select the right coverage level for your needs. May Still Carry Fees Even with AAA, you could face charges like the $18 service fee for requesting additional tows beyond your allotted number per year. There are caveats to “unlimited” towing distances as well. Read the fine print carefully. Availability of Services Varies AAA is a vast network, but service availability, pricing, and quality can vary between different club chapters and contractors. Research AAA reviews in your local area before purchasing. Not Accepted Universally While AAA is widely accepted, some repair shops, hotels, and other establishments may not honor AAA discounts. Verify that desired providers accept AAA ahead of time. Upselling Other Products AAA representatives may try to upsell you into upgraded coverage levels, additional insurance products, and more. Stick firm to only purchasing what you need. Buyer Beware With Travel While AAA offers travel booking tools and discounts, you can sometimes find even cheaper deals through dedicated travel booking sites or directly with hotels and airlines. Shop around before booking vacations through AAA. To summarize, AAA can provide outstanding benefits, but also has some limitations. Analyzing the trade-offs can help decide if membership is worth your money. Is AAA Ultimately Worth the Cost? Whether or not AAA is “worth it” depends entirely on your personal vehicle usage, driving habits, travel tendencies, and financial circumstances. For frequent drivers prone to roadside issues who take several major trips per year, the benefits likely outweigh the membership fee by a wide margin. The peace of mind of easy roadside assistance access alone is extremely valuable. But for someone who works from home, lives in an urban area with quality public transportation, has new reliable vehicles under warranty, and only travels locally, AAA is much harder to justify. Run through these key questions to gauge if AAA makes sense for your budget: How often do you drive? Daily long distances or only short local trips? How old are your vehicles? New or prone to breakdowns? Do you take frequent road trips? If so, how far away? Are other coverage options like roadside assistance through insurance sufficient? How many additional drivers would be covered under your plan? How often would you use the travel discounts and booking tools? Generally, AAA membership produces the highest value for those driving older vehicles, in rural or suburb areas often far from home, who travel frequently throughout the year. Families with multiple covered drivers also maximize benefits. Urban dwellers who bike or use public transit more often will find less val

ue from AAA. Budget-focused singles and couples or those with new reliable vehicles may also pass on membership if cost savings do not exceed $50-$100 per year. Use the above analysis as a guide, but evaluate your personal situation. In many cases, AAA can provide comfort, convenience, and savings that make the annual fee absolutely worthwhile. FAQs Still deciding if AAA is a smart budget choice for you? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions: Do I have to pay for each individual tow with AAA? No, your allotment of free tows per year is included (4 for Classic, 5 for Plus, unlimited for Premier). But fees can apply after exceeding tows based on your plan. Can someone else drive my car and use my AAA membership if I'm not present? Yes, as long as they are a registered additional driver under your membership account. Does AAA offer home lockout service in additional to auto lockout help? AAA Plus and Premier plans include free lockout service for home and auto. Classic plans only cover auto lockout service. What is the maximum distance AAA will tow my car? Up to 3 miles for Classic plans, 100 miles for Plus, and 200 miles for Premier. Extra charges may apply past these distances. If I run out of gas, will AAA bring me more fuel? Yes, AAA will deliver a few gallons of gas to get you to the nearest filling station if you run empty. Service fees may apply. Can I use AAA roadside assistance if I'm driving a rental car instead of my own vehicle? No, AAA benefits only apply directly to registered owned/leased vehicles under your membership account. Does AAA offer Senior discounts? Yes, AAA provides a 10% discount on membership dues for seniors age 65 and older who renew continuously without lapses. Are AAA's travel deals and hotel bookings really cheaper than other websites? AAA packages and rates are not always the absolute lowest cost, but they are competitively priced and offer added convenience through one source. If I'm a member can I add coverage for my parents or children that live in another state? Yes, AAA members can add associates that live anywhere in the US. Rates may vary slightly by location. Does AAA charge more if I have an electric vehicle versus a gas powered car? No, AAA does not charge extra based on your vehicle fuel type. The same membership rates apply across vehicle types. Examining these common questions can provide further insight into how AAA services work and whether they align with your needs and priorities. Making a Final Decision on AAA Membership Here are some final tips when deciding if you should get AAA: Do the math - Estimate your annual driving miles, potential discounts used, and likelihood of needing tows to calculate if AAA would pay for itself each year. Check competitor options - Compare AAA with potential alternatives like roadside assistance through insurance or independent providers. Look at bundles - You may save by bundling AAA with car or home insurance rather than paying for policies separately. Ask about discounts - See if any occupational, affinity, or alumni groups you belong to offer deals on AAA membership for extra savings. Consult reviews - Research AAA reviews specifically for your local area to ensure quality service, since this can vary. Compare plans - Classic plans offer solid basic coverage while Plus and Premier provide more inclusions and additional peace of mind for longer distances. Consider your needs - AAA is most valuable for those who drive frequently, own older vehicles, and take regular long-distance trips. For many drivers, joining AAA provides significant financial savings, superior convenience, and peace of mind. But carefully weigh the benefits against the membership costs based on your personal circumstances using this guide. Analyze how often you would tap into their services and if the fee would quickly pay for itself in avoided repair and travel costs. While not always necessary, AAA mem

bership can provide outstanding value and is often worth the investment for the right consumer. #Wiack #Car #CarInsurance #CarRental #CarPrice #AutoLoans

[sportyconnect]

AAA, also known as the American Automobile Association, is a popular auto club that provides services like roadside assistance, travel planning, and discounts to its members. But with membership fees starting around $56 per year, is joining AAA worth it for your personal budget? This comprehensive guide examines the costs, benefits, services, and value AAA offers to help you decide if it's a smart investment for your money. Understanding AAA Services What Does AAA Provide? AAA is primarily known for its emergency roadside assistance, which sends aid for services like: Towing Tire changes Jump starts Lockout service Fuel delivery However, it offers several other key benefits beyond just roadside help: Travel planning and discounts - Members gain access to exclusive travel deals on hotels, flights, car rentals, tours, and more. AAA also provides free travel guides, trip planning tools, and maps. Insurance discounts - AAA members can save up to 15% on car insurance with select providers. Savings opportunities on life, home, and identity theft insurance are also available. DMV services - Renew your license and registration, request a new title, or conduct other DMV business at your local AAA branch. AAA Discount Rewards - Members earn points for purchases from AAA that can be redeemed for gift cards, merchandise, and travel rewards. Member-only savings - Gain access to special discounts and AAA rates at thousands of retailers, hotels, restaurants, theme parks, and other establishments. Clearly, the range of benefits spans far beyond just roadside assistance. But how much do these services actually cost with a AAA membership? Is AAA Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis AAA Membership Costs and Plans AAA offers different membership levels based on your coverage needs: AAA Classic - Starts at $56 per year. Includes 4 free roadside assistance calls per member. AAA Plus - Starts at $83 per year. Includes 100 miles of free towing, extricated services, free car battery service, and more. AAA Premier - Starts at $111 per year. Unlimited towing up to 200 miles and other upgraded services. Higher tier plans cost more but provide greater roadside assistance benefits. Additional members on the plan typically cost around $38 extra per person. There are also added fees like an $18 service charge if you run out of your allotted tows and call for additional service. Cancellation may carry a fee as well. Key factors that influence AAA's pricing include: Your location - Clubs in major metro areas tend to cost more. Vehicle type - Plans for RVs, motorcycles, and luxury vehicles cost extra. Distance from home - Upgrades provide farther towing distances. Family size - Additional members raise the price. While $56-$111 per year is not negligible, keep in mind a single tow can cost $50-$100 without AAA. The membership often pays for itself after just one or two roadside assistance calls. Next, let's examine the key pros and cons of AAA to weigh if it provides good overall value. How to Make the Most of Your AAA Membership Pros of AAA Membership AAA membership offers many valuable perks and protections: Convenience of Roadside Assistance Instead of fumbling with pay-per-use towing services after a breakdown, AAA members simply call the hotline and prompt aid arrives. The ability to quickly summon help provides major peace of mind. Cost Savings Between discounts on insurance, hotels, attractions, and other AAA program benefits, members can potentially save hundreds of dollars per year. This offsets the membership fee. Higher Quality Service AAA has stricter contractor guidelines than some low-cost towing alternatives. You may receive faster response times and higher caliber assistance. Access to Travel Bookings and Planning Tools AAA’s trip planning resources, tour bookings,

and exclusive travel deals can help you save money and stress when booking vacations and business travel. Members also enjoy savings on passport photos, international driving permits, and customized maps. AAA Branded Credit Cards Members can acquire AAA branded credit cards that offer perks like 3% cash back on travel and gas purchases and free additional roadside assistance calls. This further optimizes the value of membership. No Annual Fee for Additional Members Spouses, children, and other household members can be added to your AAA plan for around $38 per additional person per year. Considering regular membership costs over $56, adding family at no extra charge creates huge savings for multi-driver households. Ongoing Loyalty Rewards The AAA Discount Rewards program lets you earn points for purchases that translate into discounts on future membership renewals, gift cards, merchandise, and travel bookings made through AAA. Cons of AAA Membership However, there are some potential drawbacks of AAA to note: Membership Costs Can Add Up While the starting rates of $56-$111 per year are reasonable, costs creep up with extra members, further distances from home, and upgraded coverage tiers. Be sure to select the right coverage level for your needs. May Still Carry Fees Even with AAA, you could face charges like the $18 service fee for requesting additional tows beyond your allotted number per year. There are caveats to “unlimited” towing distances as well. Read the fine print carefully. Availability of Services Varies AAA is a vast network, but service availability, pricing, and quality can vary between different club chapters and contractors. Research AAA reviews in your local area before purchasing. Not Accepted Universally While AAA is widely accepted, some repair shops, hotels, and other establishments may not honor AAA discounts. Verify that desired providers accept AAA ahead of time. Upselling Other Products AAA representatives may try to upsell you into upgraded coverage levels, additional insurance products, and more. Stick firm to only purchasing what you need. Buyer Beware With Travel While AAA offers travel booking tools and discounts, you can sometimes find even cheaper deals through dedicated travel booking sites or directly with hotels and airlines. Shop around before booking vacations through AAA. To summarize, AAA can provide outstanding benefits, but also has some limitations. Analyzing the trade-offs can help decide if membership is worth your money. Is AAA Ultimately Worth the Cost? Whether or not AAA is “worth it” depends entirely on your personal vehicle usage, driving habits, travel tendencies, and financial circumstances. For frequent drivers prone to roadside issues who take several major trips per year, the benefits likely outweigh the membership fee by a wide margin. The peace of mind of easy roadside assistance access alone is extremely valuable. But for someone who works from home, lives in an urban area with quality public transportation, has new reliable vehicles under warranty, and only travels locally, AAA is much harder to justify. Run through these key questions to gauge if AAA makes sense for your budget: How often do you drive? Daily long distances or only short local trips? How old are your vehicles? New or prone to breakdowns? Do you take frequent road trips? If so, how far away? Are other coverage options like roadside assistance through insurance sufficient? How many additional drivers would be covered under your plan? How often would you use the travel discounts and booking tools? Generally, AAA membership produces the highest value for those driving older vehicles, in rural or suburb areas often far from home, who travel frequently throughout the year. Families with multiple covered drivers also maximize benefits. Urban dwellers who bike or use public transit more often will find less val

ue from AAA. Budget-focused singles and couples or those with new reliable vehicles may also pass on membership if cost savings do not exceed $50-$100 per year. Use the above analysis as a guide, but evaluate your personal situation. In many cases, AAA can provide comfort, convenience, and savings that make the annual fee absolutely worthwhile. FAQs Still deciding if AAA is a smart budget choice for you? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions: Do I have to pay for each individual tow with AAA? No, your allotment of free tows per year is included (4 for Classic, 5 for Plus, unlimited for Premier). But fees can apply after exceeding tows based on your plan. Can someone else drive my car and use my AAA membership if I'm not present? Yes, as long as they are a registered additional driver under your membership account. Does AAA offer home lockout service in additional to auto lockout help? AAA Plus and Premier plans include free lockout service for home and auto. Classic plans only cover auto lockout service. What is the maximum distance AAA will tow my car? Up to 3 miles for Classic plans, 100 miles for Plus, and 200 miles for Premier. Extra charges may apply past these distances. If I run out of gas, will AAA bring me more fuel? Yes, AAA will deliver a few gallons of gas to get you to the nearest filling station if you run empty. Service fees may apply. Can I use AAA roadside assistance if I'm driving a rental car instead of my own vehicle? No, AAA benefits only apply directly to registered owned/leased vehicles under your membership account. Does AAA offer Senior discounts? Yes, AAA provides a 10% discount on membership dues for seniors age 65 and older who renew continuously without lapses. Are AAA's travel deals and hotel bookings really cheaper than other websites? AAA packages and rates are not always the absolute lowest cost, but they are competitively priced and offer added convenience through one source. If I'm a member can I add coverage for my parents or children that live in another state? Yes, AAA members can add associates that live anywhere in the US. Rates may vary slightly by location. Does AAA charge more if I have an electric vehicle versus a gas powered car? No, AAA does not charge extra based on your vehicle fuel type. The same membership rates apply across vehicle types. Examining these common questions can provide further insight into how AAA services work and whether they align with your needs and priorities. Making a Final Decision on AAA Membership Here are some final tips when deciding if you should get AAA: Do the math - Estimate your annual driving miles, potential discounts used, and likelihood of needing tows to calculate if AAA would pay for itself each year. Check competitor options - Compare AAA with potential alternatives like roadside assistance through insurance or independent providers. Look at bundles - You may save by bundling AAA with car or home insurance rather than paying for policies separately. Ask about discounts - See if any occupational, affinity, or alumni groups you belong to offer deals on AAA membership for extra savings. Consult reviews - Research AAA reviews specifically for your local area to ensure quality service, since this can vary. Compare plans - Classic plans offer solid basic coverage while Plus and Premier provide more inclusions and additional peace of mind for longer distances. Consider your needs - AAA is most valuable for those who drive frequently, own older vehicles, and take regular long-distance trips. For many drivers, joining AAA provides significant financial savings, superior convenience, and peace of mind. But carefully weigh the benefits against the membership costs based on your personal circumstances using this guide. Analyze how often you would tap into their services and if the fee would quickly pay for itself in avoided repair and travel costs. While not always necessary, AAA mem

bership can provide outstanding value and is often worth the investment for the right consumer. #Wiack #Car #CarInsurance #CarRental #CarPrice #AutoLoans

[outdoortrips]

Top Yosemite Gift Shops: Find the Perfect Souvenir

Yosemite National Park is truly a stunning destination that must be visited at least once in a lifetime. The park boasts an unparalleled natural beauty that people from all over the world come to see. The park is also home to a plethora of amazing gift shops where visitors can find unique and exciting items to take home with them. Whether you're looking for a t-shirt to commemorate your visit, a hiking map to guide you on your trek, or a treasured keepsake to remind you of your adventure, Yosemite has everything you need. At the Yosemite Valley Store, visitors can indulge in shopping for a wide variety of gifts, clothing, books, and souvenirs. If you're an art lover or a nature enthusiast, be sure to check out the Ansel Adams Gallery, which features a vast collection of the photographer's work alongside stunning landscape photography. For those interested in locally-crafted items, the Yosemite Museum Gallery and the Indian Village at the Yosemite Valley Lodge are great options. Here, you can find unique pottery, baskets, jewelry, and other traditional crafts made by local Native American artists. No matter which gift shop you decide to visit, you'll be sure to find something that captures the essence of Yosemite and brings back memories of your time spent in this beautiful park. Read the full article You May Also Like Discover the Yosemite National Park; Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss Discover the Best Camping Spots, in Yosemite National Park; Uncovering the Hidden Treasures Top RV Parks Near Yosemite National parkExpedia Yosemite Valley Tours and Activities

[travelingtheusa]

CANADA - YUKON

2023 July 1 (Sat) – We gave everyone a totally free day to do what they wanted.  We ran some errands – got fuel and did some shopping.  We drove to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.  The tour bus was getting ready to leave when we arrived so we quickly paid and joined the group for a tour of the preserve.  They had 4 moose (we saw one), elk, thin horn sheep, mountain goats, 2 lynx, and wood bison.

2023 June 30 (Fri) – We took a bus tour of Whitehorse this morning.  I expected one 56-passenger bus but 3 12-passenger vans arrived instead.  We split into groups and rode around the area for 2-1/2 hour.  Whitehorse is not very spread out and we hit all the high spots.

      After we got back to the campground, Paul and I hopped in the truck and went into town to do some grocery shopping.  The Canadian Store wanted a dollar to take a shopping cart.  We had none so we moved on to Walmart.  It was a very small store with a poor selection of items.  We couldn’t find several items.  So, we went to the Save-on-Foods.  There we picked up the rest of what we needed.  We will be having a potluck barbecue tomorrow after the Canada Day festivities in town, and on July 4th in Skagway after the Independence Day festivities.  In both instances, the caravan is providing the meat and the group is providing the sides.

      At 6 p.m. we climbed into Johnny & Linda’s truck and rode with them to downtown Whitehorse.  First stop was at the Visitor Center where they got their 3-day parking pass.  Then we walked 3 blocks to the Dirty Northern Bastard, a pub.  Paul and Johnny had truffle burgers, Linda had a salmon burger, and I tried an Atlantic Char.  It turned out to be a meaty white fish.  Very tasty.  It came with fried capers.  Unusual but good.

2023 June 29 (Thu) – We packed up and left Swift River at 8:00 a.m.  It was 185 miles and 3 of the 5 groups wanted to stop off to see the George Johnston Museum. We saw it last time we were here so we were in the “bah, humbug” group.  We pulled into the Pioneer RV Park in Whitehorse around noon.  The owner was not in and had not left a voucher for how much our bill was so the clerk told me to come back tomorrow.  Everybody up here is so laid back about money.  Don’t worry.  Pay me later when it is convenient for you.  What a difference from the states where everyone wants to be paid upfront before anything.

      We got the campground map, determined where to put everyone, and then parked each group as they came in.  It was a little tricky because we had to determine whether they came in on the left or right side.  The sides are Jack and Jill so one rig faces one direction and the one next to it faces another direction.  They share the same stanchion. 

      We grilled some chicken-on-a-stick, made boiled potatoes, Linda provided carrots, and we enjoyed a meal with Johnny and Linda.  Before dinner, a few of us gathered around the Padberg/Pepperell RV for social hour.  I was pooped and went to bed at 9.

2023 June 28 (Wed) – We packed up and left Watson Lake at 9 a.m.  It was only 85 miles to Swift River.  It was a boring drive for half the way – mostly long, lonely roadway through forest.  Then we spotted a porcupine, then a rabbit, a ptarmigan, and a chipmunk.  There wasn’t the array of wildlife as there has been up to now.

      Continental Divide Alpine Resort & RV Park (cough, cough) is a spot along the highway.  They have about 25 sites – 15 pull thru and the rest back in.  There is only 30 amp and water service.  The area is dirt and gravel with a good smattering of trees.  The owner, Rick Aley, couldn’t have been nicer and as helpful as could be.  He kept riding by on his ATV with his dog to check on us.  We got everyone in OK.  We were warned to watch for a grizzly bear in the area.  Many went for a hike to Rancheria Falls.

       At 5 p.m., 22 folks went in to the café to eat.  At 6 p.m. the second seating took place (it was a small café).  After dinner, we held a travel meeting in the café.

2023 June 27 (Tue) – We went to the Northern Lights Centre for a show about the northern lights.  It was kind of dry and I kept nodding off.  After the show, we all went exploring around the area.  We held a travel meeting next to the office on picnic tables they had there.  The sun was blazing down so we made the meeting quick then gathered around our RV for happy hour.

2023 Jun 26 (Mon) – We drove 200 miles from Toad River, BC to Watson Lake in the Yukon.  It was exciting with view of wood bison, caribou, and bears.  Downtown RV Park was essentially a big open dirt lot with 3 rows of campsites – one on either fence and a pull thru section down the middle of the lot.  The owner, Archie Tannock, had a Scottish burr and something of an attitude.  We worked well together, though, and things went off with few problems.  When we first pulled into the campground, Fantasy RV was also arriving with their caravan and there were motorhomes everywhere.  We managed to get everything straightened out and everyone got parked fine.

       Once everyone was in, we all went to the Signpost Forest.  In 1942, a soldier was given the responsibility to put up a directional sign indicating how far Washington DC and other towns were from Watson Lake.  Being homesick, he also stuck up a sign for his hometown.  From there on, people have come from all over the world and added signs to the area.  There are over 85,000 signs in the place.  We put our sign up and hunted for signs from other caravans.  It is a dizzying collection of signage.

[spellucci]

Mammoth Cave National Park

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

It’s pouring rain as we wake up. It has now rained every day of this trip —11 days so far. As we cross the Tennessee River, we compare weather apps to see where we can go with good weather. No luck. Any place with good weather will have rain by the time we can get there. Oh well. We had great weather when we really needed it yesterday.

Jeanne was scrolling maps looking for ideas when she spotted Mammoth Cave National Park. It’s a couple hours away, and we could get in our daily steps without getting drenched. Perfect!! We set Google Maps for Mammoth Cave.

This is not an original idea. We grab the last spot in the campground. We luck out and get the volunteer host site which has power and water. None of the rest of the sites have power. We head over to the Visitor Center to check out the cave tours. The parking lot was packed with cars and RVs. The rain is torrential and the entrance sidewalks are blocked with large puddles. We buy tickets for the self-guided tour and walk down a steep trail toward the historic cave entrance.

The entrance is framed by a waterfall.

We turn in our tickets to the waterproofed ranger at the cave mouth, receive the safety talk from the next ranger who is trying for a career in standup. “If you are bitten by a bat, once you stop screaming, see a ranger who will calm you down with stacks of government paperwork on the dangers of rabies.”

Charmed, we head into the Twilight Zone of animals that live near the entrances to caves.

This is not like Carlsbad Caverns. There are no delicate cave formations. In the tourist area, anything delicate was removed in the 1800s.

The cave was mined for gypsum by enslaved people to make gunpowder for the War of 1812 and beyond.

This cave system is capped by sandstone which prevents the slow percolation of water that builds stalagmites, so there are few formations. It has 5 layers cave rooms as mapped that have been carved by different levels of water before entering the Green River.

Jeanne asks a bored ranger where all the bats are. He says that 90% of the bats have died of white nose syndrome but points out one on the wall. They are 1.5 inches long, and look more like a caterpillar.

We carefully walk the path past WW1 memorial stones and rock formations into a huge oval room that was carved by a river of water.

We stop by the remains of the saltpeter works where gypsum was processed in the 1860’s and sold to DuPont. The sign said it was mixed with turnip and ox blood. Highly dubious, Tim asked the ranger who clarifies it was mostly tree ash. He called it “guide lore” where a good story takes on a history of its own.

The Visitor Center was still crowded, so we headed back to the campstore for showers. Much refreshed, we headed back to the campsite, plugged into power and decided to take advantage of the abundant electrons to cook several days of meals.

After dinner we headed out for what we thought would be a quick stroll around the campground, but stumbled onto a hiking trail where Dora could run. After a day in the rain, an hour’s walk under heavily overcast skies was a treat.

[allseasonsr]

All Seasons RV

All Seasons RV Supercenter in Muskegon, Michigan, is one of the nation’s leading full-service RV dealerships with inventory and prices that will amaze you. Our superb selection includes RVs from pop-ups to motor homes and every style in between by Catalina, Jayco, DRV Mobile Suites, Puma, Rockwood, Sabre, Stryker, and many more. Our huge indoor showroom allows you to tour different styles and brands of RVs at your leisure and our knowledgeable sales staff will be happy to walk you through any RV on our expansive outdoor lot.

If you are looking to find the right type of  campers for sale muskegon look no further other than All Seasons RV

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All Seasons RV

4701 Airline Rd, Muskegon, MI 49444, United States

(231) 422-0576

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