RV THERE YET?

RV THERE YET? WE'RE THERE!

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 19:18:00 +0000

Lot 7 - Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort

Webster, FL

There may have been times I could have posted to our blog during the pandemic but it just wasn't possible. Like many of you I felt I didn't have much to say about anything while we waited around to see what would happen next. So now, it's been almost 2 years and I have some things to say.

RV began having issues with his left eye during the pandemic and he endured 6 eye surgeries within a year's time period. We put a lot of faith and trust in our ophthalmologist and cornea specialists, and tried to ask the questions to get the answers to what would be the best thing to do next.

His eye surgeries took place about an hour south of Webster in Tampa, FL so there were numerous times of checks, rechecks, pre-ops, and post ops and then surgery. Finally, after a successful partial cornea transplant RV's vision is improved; however, if you were to ask him if he would do it all over again, he would say he would have to think about it.

After 14 years of full timing in our RV we have decided to go to the next chapter of our adventure book. We are selling our Tiffin Allegro Bus (our Wheel Estate), our lot and suite at Florida Grande, and our car which is equipped with one of the most reliable towing systems available.

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

Our 2007 Allegro Bus 40QSP

9684 SE 47th Way - Webster, FL

Lincoln MKX - our tow car

We feel positive about our decision even though we are sad to leave a lifestyle many don't have an opportunity to experience, especially for as long as we did! We would do it all over again without any hesitation! Want to buy our coach? Update: Suite, Coach and car sold in less than 48 hours)

Sunrise - Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

Our memories and the thousands of pictures (and this blog) will remind us of the hundreds of new friends we have made.

Tiffin Travelers - Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort

Evelyn Wolf, Marty and Sandy Gallup

Clay and Frances Croom

Florida Grande Friends in Middlebury, IN

Ronnie and Marianne DiGiglia

Florida Grande friends in Celina, OH

Toby

Our full time RV lifestyle accomplished what we set out to do and that is "see as much of America as we could". We've been blessed!

Barn Quilt near King Ferry, NY

Field of Dreams - Dyersville, IA

Sulphur, LA near Lake Charles, LA

Indianapolis International Speedway, Indianapolis, IN

Knapp Berry Farm - Ithaca, NY

Regretfully, it is sad for me to have to discontinue the monthly ARTitude Adjustment painting classes that I've taught at Florida Grande (for 10 years) as well as all over the country while we traveled to RV rallies, but while we were quarantined for the pandemic I completed a digital course in Adobe Illustrator on my Mac Book Pro and learned how to do surface pattern design.

Activity and ARTitude Adjustment Classroom - Florida Grande

My plans are to work from my home studio and license designs for fabrics, stationary, calendars, gift wrapping paper, home decor, etc. wherever we locate. Occasionally, I hope to teach a class or teach art classes over the internet.

Thank you again for following our travels these last 14 years. We've been blessed by your comments and suggestions. Your friendship, prayers and genuine concern have been especially appreciated during this time and lifted us in the darkest days. Just know we are optimistic and look forward to the next chapter where we plan to relocate back to the Jacksonville/Green Cove Springs area.

Bob and Marty Whitney

Sunsets from our back yard - Lot 7

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort, Webster, FL

LIFE ROCKS WHEN YOUR LIVING ROOM ROLLS

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 15:37:00 +0000

"Life rocks when your living room rolls!"
Our home - 2007 Tiffin Allegro Bus

We feel qualified to say "full-timing" as an RVer has been a blessing to us in many ways. Before we began this somewhat nomadic lifestyle it seemed possible we would be able to see America the Beautiful on our terms and enjoy the freedom of traveling when we wanted and where we wanted.

We've traveled about 75,000 miles to see
America The Beautiful

We are back in our winter base in Webster, Florida, at the Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort, a Class A motorhome resort in a very rural part of old central Florida.

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort
Webster, FL

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort
Highway 478 - Webster, FL

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

Webster is famous for having the oldest continuously running flea market in the state which began around the 1930's! Our motorhome is one of about 200 lots on 275 acres sandwiched between 2 certified black angus ranches.

Certified Black Angus

Our neighbors are usually black and beautiful cows and are well cared for.

"Toby" A Welsh Pony comes around every day

A Welsh Pony (Toby), comes to our fence in the afternoon for apples and peppermints who roams freely with the cattle.

ARTitude Adjustment - It's FUN art...not FINE art!

We've owned a lot at Florida Grande for 10 years. For 8 years I have taught a painting class each month called ARTitude Adjustment. My husband and I travel to RV resorts, RV organizations, RV manufacturer rallies and RV rallies throughout the United States where I also offer ARTitude Adjustment painting classes. My particular brand is that I teach "FUN art....not FINE art". The purpose of each class is to paint, have a good time, and make new friends! We definitely do that!

ARTitude Adjustment - painted wooden Christmas spindles

Painted wooden spoons and Alcohol Ink Christmas Ornaments
ARTitude Adjustment

Every weekday I present about a 30 minute "LIVE" tutorial on Monday through Fridays at 3:00 pm EST on my Facebook business page called ARTitude Adjustment by Marty Whitney. Presenting the LIVE tutorials enable me to reach a very large audience as well as attract people who are interested in learning more about new products and painting techniques - in a very relaxed setting. In a few years I will offer online classes on a monthly basis and build a community of like-minded members. I hope you will join sometime!

America The Beautiful

Right now we enjoy our travels very much. I will continue to blog, and I hope if you would like to follow us, or my business page, we welcome you. If you have any questions about the RV lifestyle, we are always available to discuss this exciting way to live!

America The Beautiful

Merry Christmas from Bob and Marty - 2019

Until next time we hope you have a blessed holiday and Merry Christmas from Bob and Marty Whitney!

A HEE HAW DAY

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 26 Oct 2019 18:55:00 +0000

Winfield is a small city situated in Northwest Alabama about 30 miles from the Mississippi state line. The area was once a Chickasaw Indian domain.

We were staying about an hour away from Winfield, Alabama and several of our friends suggested we consider going to Mule Day which is held every 4th weekend of September. This year was the 45th year of the traditional Mule Day Festival, held since 1975 to honor the hard-working mules of the day. We were two of the estimated 25,000 spectators in attendance.

Winfield, Alabama's Annual Mule Day has been termed "One of the top 20 events in the Southeast" by Travel and Tourism Magazine. Mule Day is not only a major event in the City of Winfield but also for the State of Alabama.

Arts and Crafts were spectacular!

Dr. Pepper brought a Fansville Tailgating Booth

Mule Day lasts 3 days

If you have the time there is also live entertainment, car shows and a diverse venue of homemade baked goods sold in a farmer's market setting. There are organized events for elementary and middle school children at the Mule Day carnival, including many rides.

The parade began promptly as scheduled at 11:00 a.m., with staging done at the elementary school. Not only were there mules, wagons, horses, tractors, cars, but one wagon carried the Mule Day Grand Marshal and Miss Mule Day.

Grand Marshal - Mule Day 2019

Miss Mule Day 2019

The mules were judged and arts and crafts booths were set up in the main part of Winfield. There were flea markets set in many parts of town from Friday evening and all day Saturday. A Civil War skirmish was called "The Skirmish at Luxapalilla", sponsored by Sons of Confederate Veterans.

The Skirmish was conducted at another location off-site

"We didn't know what we didn't know" is how we went into a Mule Day experience. We now know a mule is the offspring of a male donkey (a jack) and a female horse (a mare). On the other hand, a hinny is a cross of a female donkey (a jenny) and a male horse (stallion). A horse has 64 chromosomes and a donkey has 62. The mule and hinnies ends up with 63. Mules can be either male or female, but because of the odd number of chromosomes, they can't reproduce.

Mules are reputed to be more patient, hardy and long-lived than horses and are described as less obstinate and more intelligent than donkeys. The use of mules for farming and transportation of agricultural products largely gave way to steam, then gasoline powered tractors and trucks.

After enjoying an unusually hot but enjoyable day at the Mule Day festivities, we had learned more than we anticipated and think that now we can carry on an intelligent conversation about mules and donkeys. Just ask. Hee Haw.

OUR WHEEL ESTATE

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 16:48:00 +0000

Based on the title above, it sounds like we just bought a new motorhome, doesn't it? No, actually we still have the same motorhome but when we arrive in Red Bay, AL, home of Tiffin Motorhomes, my husband does his best to redo, upgrade, retrofit, accessorize and add to our decked out moho.

Our brand new "somewhere between 2007 - 2014" Tiffin Allegro Bus

First off, if you have never checked the above tab of this blog called "COACH UPGRADES", you will notice our motorhome has had several (understatement) items added that may not have been visible to the casual onlooker.

Updated 2014 Allegro Bus chrome lettering

I'm going to post some pictures because you may be extremely confused if I don't. Just in case you didn't know, "chrome is in" on motorhomes. RV, my husband Robert Vance, says "You can't go wrong with chrome and stainless steel on RV's, motorcycles and classic cars." RV is very proud of our "wheel estate", our full time home on wheels for the past 12+ years.

Summit Stainless Steps and Kickplate Upgrade

For instance, if you crawl on top of the roof, we added air conditioner #3 simply because it is an additional convenience in Florida with the extreme heat and humidity. We may have the only 2007 Allegro Bus in the country with the Winegard Trav'ler, Winegard In-motion AND the Winegard Rayzar - to assure we will have some form of television reception during the college and NFL football season, including golf, of course. Our unlimited Verizon mifi is used to provide a signal for the Facebook Lives I produce for my painting class, ARTitude Adjustment on a daily basis.

For instance, we have stainless steel access pieces on the front and rear of our coach.

Summit Stainless Engine Compartment Accent Pieces Upgrade

Summit Stainless Accent Pieces on Front Cap of Coach

He added LED lights throughout the coach as well on the undercarriage of the coach (he says that it helps keep critters away). This trip he added new fog lights that have an LED halo for 360 degrees when the motor is running. When we purchased our coach there was a 36" television but now we have an LG 43" Smart TV. The bedroom television was replaced with a larger Samsung LED TV and a custom storage cabinet was built.

Additional cabinets, shelves and matching solid surface countertops, new sinks, etc., as well as shades and ultra suede privacy shades were added earlier. The list goes on....

This trip we have installed a chrome door handle, fog lights, front and rear cap repainted, and an assortment of other items associated with our engine and the engine compartment.

Chrome Door Lock and Handle Upgrade

Chrome Exhaust Extension Upgrade

Upgrade LED Halo Fog Lights

Repainted Front and Rear Cap of Coach

After 5 very enjoyable weeks in Red Bay, we're back on the road and making our way to Lafayette, LA. He's already thinking about what to do the next time we return. More stainless?

GLOBETROTTING

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 20:37:00 +0000

Miramar Beach - The Emerald Coast in the
Panhandle of Florida

And there we were, already excited about being at one of our favorite destinations, and then it rains just about every day of our stay on the Emerald Coast in west Florida.

#1 State Park and RV Campground
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Santa Rosa Beach, FL is one of the most desired State Park RV resorts in Florida - always being voted #1 in the State of Florida. This geographical area of Florida is referred to as The Emerald Coast because of the vivid blue green color of the water in the Gulf of Mexico.

Santa Rosa Beach, FL
How can you forget the white confectioner sugar sandy beaches?

This area is very desirable as far as real estate is concerned and so much development is taking place since our last visit. Hard to believe all the new construction as you drive down Highway 30A. This popular and scenic highway connects Santa Rosa Beach to other planned communities such as Watercolor and Seaside to name a few.

While in Destin I completed an 8 week online business course which will enhance future ARTitude Adjustment classes. During our time in Destin I flew to Toronto for a 4 day business conference that had been scheduled since last April.

Toronto, Canada at nighttime

Toronto, Canada - on beautiful
Lake Ontario

The trip in itself was worthy of a blogpost, but I'll just say the trip was very successful and worthwhile in many ways.

We are officially on our way to Red Bay, AL and will be in Montgomery, AL for an overnight. We are traveling with our friends, Clay and Frances Croom, and Mrs. Lynette Croom, Clay's 87 year old spunky and lovable mother. Our choice of a place to stay while we are getting service in Red Bay is always the Downtown Red Bay RV Campground.

Downtown Red Bay, AL -
Home of Tiffin Motorhomes

Highway 24 - also referred to affectionately as
Tammy Wynette Highway

The next few weeks will be interesting because northwest Alabama holds lots of exciting opportunities....but you have to look for them sometimes.

If you want the freshest catfish dinner anywhere, you
head to Swamp John's Restaurant, Red Bay, AL

The Rattlesnake Saloon - yes, a pickup truck takes you
to the cave where the restaurant is located inside

Celebrated once a year on Labor Day Weekend - Worth a visit!
Only AKC Registered Coon Hounds are allowed to be buried here.

By the way, Red Bay is the birthplace of our motorhome, Tiffin Motorhomes, and while we usually pull into town every year, this year we will be here as Red Bay celebrates 200 years on Founder's Day on September 21. We try to make Red Bay one of our travel stops if possible, where we not only get to visit special friends but we receive exceptional and professional service for our Tiffin Allegro Bus.

SEE YOU LATER, ALLIGATOR

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 12:55:00 +0000

Staying so long at our winter base gave us an opportunity to live in an almost private resort. We had it all to ourselves. When I walked each morning it was common to see rabbits, armadillos and see evidence that the coyotes were getting braver and coming closer to our lots in the evening. We heard them but never saw them at night.

Summer at Florida Grande
Webster, FL

Our journey was about 5 hours away to the Panhandle of Florida to Ho Hum RV Campground in Carrabelle, FL. We like Ho Hum for its no frills, beautiful scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico and views of nearby secluded Dog Island. We have met with friends from Florida Grande, Clay and Frances Croom and our favorite camping buddy, Mrs. Croom (87 years young)

No Frills Ho-Hum RV Park
Carrabelle, FL

One of our favorite things to do at Ho Hum is to walk out on their private dock, witness the sunrise each morning with a cup of coffee in hand, and enjoy the solitude. Ho Hum has very shallow tides and you see lots of fish, dolphin, pelicans - all looking for their next meal.

Sunrise at Ho - Hum
Worth getting out of bed!!

A favorite day trip would be Ed Ball's Lodge (built in 1937) and Wakulla Springs State Park, in Wakulla Springs.

Wakulla Springs State Park
Wakulla, FL

Wakulla Springs Lodge - 1937
Wakulla Springs State Park - Wakulla, FL

The Florida State Park Service offers a boat tour on the protected part of Wakulla River and seeing shore birds, animals, alligators young and old, and many people who came to swim in the constant 70 degree temperature of the spring waters in a fenced area near the head of the Wakulla River.

Nap Time Always for the Alligators
Wakulla Springs State Park

Wakulla Springs State Park - Wakulla, FL

Breathtaking views of wildlife at
Wakulla Springs State Park - Wakulla, FL

Lots of manatees enjoy the cool waters of
the Wakulla River - Wakulla Springs State Park

Our boat tour driver showed us so many amazing areas and upon leaving the biggest alligator I've ever seen announced appropriately "See you later, alligator!"

Alligators vary in size from newborn to mature alligators
Wakulla Springs State Park

We have always wanted to stop at a popular food truck called Hutton's Seafood, offering softshell crabs, shrimp, catfish and fresh oysters.

Getting our seafood cravings adjusted
Huttons Seafood Food Truck - Crawfordville, FL

So even though it was unbearably hot, we stopped and weren't unhappy with the wonderful fresh seafood we devoured in a non-air conditioned eating place with a fan continually blowing heated air. Miserable, but our stomachs were full.

Ho Hum RV Campground
Carrabelle, FL

We are leaving "the Forgotten Coast" and are on the road again to travel west toward "the Emerald Coast", Destin, FL, on scenic US Highway 98 - one of the most beautiful of all Florida roads. Lots of storm damage from Hurricane Michael still visible but it is so nice to see people are rebuilding and haven't let this deter their daily routines or lives.

FIND JOY IN THE JOURNEY

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 16:55:00 +0000

Getting the RV, us and our car prepared to leave for the next 3 months means we must get focused and try to remember all we're not going to need to take with us... maybe take off a few pounds of equipment we probably won't need. Maybe it's ALL my stuff, just saying.

There's something to check off our "to do" list about every day. This week was doctor's appointments, a trip to get a new braking system for our car to assure the tow bar and car can be attached with no trouble (definitely don't want problems there).

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort
Webster, FL

Leaving the peace and quiet solitude at Florida Grande is difficult because it is so large it feels like we have the entire place to ourselves. We share our resort with a few rabbits, sandhill cranes, egrets, armadillos and alligators, but otherwise, only a handful of our friends are left.

Sand Hill Cranes - Mom, Dad, 2 youngsters

Toby the Welsh Pony - all he wants is for us to return with
a large bag of apples and peppermints

Lots of different birds love the pasture
and impromptu swimming parties

Black Angus Cattle Ranch - Next door neighbors

Breakfast time for all the birds

We have already done some pre-planning and made reservations at a few places that we enjoy staying. I have lots of work to do and will be planning several Facebook Live tutorials as well as some other things I have in mind, most likely inside the motorhome. Surprises!!

For the past 8 years RV has been supportive of my traveling painting classes called "ARTitude Adjustment". I teach at lots of places when we travel, and when you get down to the truth, I might have more fun than anyone.

Our travel gives me an opportunity to enjoy art and craft shows all over the country. Local artisans are my favorites. I lost count of the Hobby Lobby stores I've shopped - but we may have a national record for shopping at different Hobby Lobby locations.

"The best things in life are the people we love,

the places we've been,

and the memories we've made along the way...."

B.E.A.C.H. (BEST ESCAPE ANYONE CAN HAVE)

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:07:00 +0000

7 Mile Bridge in
Marathon, FL

Our family just returned from a family vacation and we brought back lots of special memories. A week in the Florida Keys was beautiful with occasional rain and thunder showers in the afternoon. This was a year we celebrated 3 birthdays (mine, our oldest daughter, Kristen, and son-in-law, Chris,) RV's and my 30th wedding anniversary, and a friend's wedding proposal (on the beautiful Gulf side in Marathon).

RV and MH
Happy 30th Anniversary

Our Vacation Home - Marathon FL

We definitely decorate for our birthday parties!

We enjoyed several invited guests who are considered family and the week was filled with laughter, good food, snorkeling, fishing, games, and a time where we could enjoy special times and relax.

One of the popular pool games

Fishing on the end of the dock at sunset

Dinner at The Island Fish Company
Marathon, FL

We left our motorhome at our home base and drove south to Marathon where our 3 families rented a large home with a pool on the peaceful Gulf side, and comfortable for all of us. Eating healthy was done sometimes, but it wasn't possible most of the time.

By the way, you can have dessert for breakfast on your vacation!

Restaurants are plentiful and awesome in this area - lots of fresh seafood and lots of good food.

One of the best sunsets in the world!

The Sunset Grille is at the foot of the 7 Mile Bridge in
Marathon

Grilled blackened mahi-mahi is definitely something we look forward to every time we are in the Keys - and our son in law, Harold, always prepares it very well!

Leaving with high expectations!

Lots of fish stories this afternoon!

A 26 lb. mahi-mahi

That smile says it all!

Lauren, Chris and Kenneth

Fishing is always a big part of coming to the Florida Keys. Our son in law is the fisherman and the week was filled with early 7:00 a.m.departures and mid-afternoon 3:00 p.m. arrivals from where the fish were caught about 30 miles off the Atlantic Ocean side.

A day's catch of mahi-mahi

Harold and Donnie filleting mahi for dinner

Lots of fish to clean today!

The boat is ready for tomorrow

Preparations for the next day take place as soon as the boat arrives - cleaning mahi or fresh tuna most likely. The boat and the fish are cleaned and plans are in place for the next day.

A peaceful end of the day

Usually we make several trips to Key West during the week. Not only is it always a scenic ride but there's always lots to do when you arrive as a tourist. We left one special guest at the Key West airport and picked up another surprise special guest, and then we all enjoyed a fabulous dinner together before we returned to Marathon.

Key West docks and Marina

Key West Marina and Boat Docks

Shopping is best done in Key West as just about the only places in Marathon were Beall's Outlet, Sandals Outlet, tourist shops, and a K-Mart...seriously. But you'd be surprised at all they had at that huge K-Mart! The island has a Publix and Winn Dixie, so we were set to eat.

Saturday is the day all the people who rented a house are exiting the the Florida Keys, so it is a good idea to plan an early departure if possible. Also, lots of people are arriving as new visitors to the Keys so you will be in a 2 lane only traffic jam most likely, no matter which way you're headed. The boat landings are lined up with everyone getting their boats in or out of the water.

Arrivals and Departures - Every Saturday morning

Sunrise in Marathon, FL

Sunset in Marathon, FL

Just be patient - you're on island time!!

THE STARS AND STRIPES

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 22:55:00 +0000

The primary reason for this blog post is that we realized more than ever how many photos we have taken of the United States flag, also known as the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory and the Star Spangled Banner, since we started our full time RV lifestyle.

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

Our beautiful United States flag is displayed all over our country, and we sometimes think our little corner of the world is the extent of patriotism. So this post is just about a few flags we have enjoyed seeing throughout our travels in America. We are grateful for United States citizens who feel the same way everywhere we travel, who take the time to learn flag etiquette, and proudly display their patriotism.

Korean War Veteran - Gino Blakeman - 85 years young patriot

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

Florida National Cemetery - Bushnell, FL

An Airstream show - Florida

Wood Carving by Marty Whitney

Museum - Tunica, MS

Ft. Rucker, Dothan, AL

Parachute Jumpers in Atlanta, GA

Car show - Tremont, MS

Calloway Gardens - Pine Mountain, GA

Ft Walton Beach - Destin, FL

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort - Webster, FL

St. Simons Island, GA

Ellajay, GA

Old Federal Highway - Buford, GA

Ft Rucker Helicopter Museum - Dothan, Alabama

Middlebury, Indiana

Indiana

Blue Angels - Pensacola, FL

Natchez, MS

National Cemetery - Salisbury, NC

Pensacola Naval Museum - Pensacola, FL

Penn Station - New York City

Key West, FL

Chimney Rock, NC

Knoxville, TN

Old Atlanta Falcons Stadium - Atlanta, GA

Like us, you have most likely taken pictures of our flag when you have travelled through our beautiful country. Thank you very much for reading our blog as we celebrate American Independence Day. July 4, 1776 is a day that represents the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation. This holiday should represent more than a backyard cookout, fireworks, and a "day off" for all Americans.

ONLY ON MONDAYS

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 04 May 2019 18:29:00 +0000

We spend about half of the year in Sumter County, located in central Florida, in a small town called Webster, FL. Webster is located approximately 60 miles northeast of Tampa and roughly 50 miles due west of Orlando and 30 miles west of Clermont. According to the 2010 Census Webster has a population of about 800 residents except on Monday when thousands of shoppers converge at the Webster Flea Market.

Our backyard in Webster, FL

Another beautiful sunset at Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort
Webster, FL

We didn't particularly seek out the town of Webster as much as we found a place we genuinely felt at home. Peace? Oh yes, there is peace... except when our neighbors get hungry.

Certified Black Angus Cattle

Our neighbors on both sides of us are registered and certified Black Angus cattle. Turns out they have been good neighbors too.

Sumter County Farmers Market
Established in 1937

New produce probably picked early that morning
Sumter County Farmers Market - Webster, FL

Vendors can choose from about 20 different pavilions at the Flea Market

Two things never change in Sumter County, Florida. The Webster Flea Market has been in business, rain or shine, for almost 8 decades.

Private dealers can set up shot on the Westside of the Flea Market
Webster, FL

Second, the Sumter County Cattle and Horse Auction is held every Tuesday. Webster is known for the flea market, but the cattle and horse business is a very important part of Sumter County, where boots, spurs and cowboys have been conducting business since the beginning of Webster.

Weekly cattle and horse auction in Webster, FL

Livestock stalls at cattle auction in Webster, FL

The Webster Flea Market is on the corner of County Road 478 and NW 3rd Street and is the largest and oldest running flea market in the State of Florida, located on 40 acres in an 80 acre compound. The covered pavilions make it possible for the 4,000 dealers to prepare for the estimated 100,000 shoppers that appear every Monday from 6 am - 2 pm. Webster turns into a bustling town with hundreds of day visitors. The only police force will be on horseback.

Some of the 4,000 vendors are local but many come from all over and may have gotten up early enough to get here as far away as Miami, Fort Lauderdale or north Florida. During the snowbird season the vendors are from out West and as far north as Canada. Most of the regular shoppers get some great walking exercise.

Just about anything for any collector!

You need a sense of humor to enjoy your shopping at Webster!

Many vendors don't use tables - they spread everything on the ground!

Someone with a microphone announces "The West Side is the best side", and another announcer gives a license plate number for someone blocking the entrance to the parking lot.

Through the years I've learned never to be surprised at some of the unique merchandise for sale.

Yes, this coffin was for sale. Handcrafted and ready to use.

You can find just about anything at the Webster Flea Market!

An antique mall on the grounds has more than 80 stalls, along with a beer garden and concession area. This is the place to enjoy bargains or add to your personal collection. We feel blessed to be able to buy fresh produce from the local farmers as well as fresh seafood from the Gulf. It makes good sense to buy local and enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Local farmers offer a variety of fruits and vegetables

The most important thing is that you are buying fresh from the farmer!

Fresh citrus is everywhere during season

How about some carrots for your horses?

While you are at the Flea Market take advantage of some of the reasonably priced food vendors.

Not hard to locate this food vendor - a large cow is on top of the building!

A variety of foods, snacks and beverages are throughout the market area. You may find American snack bars, breakfast, homemade doughnuts, sausage sandwiches, Bar-B-Q, pizza, Mexican vendors, Asian vendors, roasted corn and baked potatoes, etc....it's all there and reasonably priced.

You won't be disappointed if you visit Webster and eat at the Farmers Market Restaurant, next to the Sumter County Farmers Market, where delicious country food is served buffet-style and opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, all with a southern flair!

LEAVE NOTHING BUT FOOTPRINTS

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 15:58:00 +0000

We recently visited central Florida's Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, FL, the winter home to almost 500 West Indian manatees.

Talk about winter visitors trying to find a place to get warm!

Florida State Parks are proud of "America's Best State Park" Designation!

Blue Spring Gift Shop with Snorkel/Scuba Rentals

Stay for the weekend in a full furnished cabin!

Abundance of turtles, birds, fish and wildlife

A Florida Manatee and calf at Blue Spring

Other animals that make Blue Spring a home is the Florida scrub jay, gopher tortoise and black bear. This area is the home of one of only two known locations for the Okeechobee gourd.

Florida Scrub Jay - Blue Spring

All types of Florida birds life thrive in this environment

Tucked within 2,643 acres are 15 natural communities, a lagoon, a north-flowing river and a first-magnitude spring that discharges over 104 million gallons of water into the St. Johns River on a daily basis.

Manatees are well protected at Blue Spring

Boardwalk through shade areas

We enjoyed the one-third mile boardwalk that follows the flowing Blue Spring run through a shady hardwood hammock.

The water is 72-degrees year round and abounds with fish, manatees and tropical birds. They are very well protected away from areas where swimmers and scuba divers converge. There are 3 covered pavilions if you care to have a picnic or simply rest.

Many covered and uncovered picnic areas

If you bring a bicycle there is a 4 mile, one way Pine Island Hiking Trail. Facilities include 50 campsites equipped with water, electricity, picnic tables, fire rings and 6 fully equipped cabins.

If you desire to explore the river further, rent a canoe, kayak or take a kayak tour or experience native plants and wildlife on a 2 hour river cruise.

Leisurely kayaks enjoy the Spring

The on-site Florida pioneer Louis Thursby House is over 100 years old and offers an insight to early Florida pioneer living. Louis Thursby purchased Blue Spring in 1856 and built a 3 story house atop a large Indian midden in 1872. Before the railroad rolled through in the 1880s, Thursby's Blue Spring Landing was a hotbed of steamboat activity shipping tourists and goods to Jacksonville and beyond. Mrs. Mary Thursby was Orange City's first postmistress.

Louis Thursby Home - Blue Spring

Louis Thursby House has withstood the test of time since 1872

The State of Florida purchased Blue Spring in 1972 recognizing the importance of this area being a winter refuge to the manatee.

Blue Spring is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year. The beauty and history of this important spring is definitely something to be protected for all to enjoy.

EVERYTHING WAS PEACHY IN PERRY!

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 20:37:00 +0000

99TH International FMCA Convention

Georgia State Fairgrounds, Perry, GA

We attended the Spring 99th International Family Motor Coach Association in Perry, Georgia. This event brought almost 2,300 motor coaches and towable recreational vehicles together for fun, fellowship and interesting RV education opportunities.

99th International FMCA Convention - Perry, GA

Sometimes a few coaches may be sold by the many RV manufacturers who attend every year. Placing all the components into place and organizing this event is mind boggling to me because we play a very small part in helping to make the convention a success.

ARTitude Adjustment (It's FUN art...not FINE art) is a painting class presented at national RV rallies, manufacturer rallies, private RV resorts (for the past 8 years) as well as at the Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort where we spend our winters.

Registration for classes
99th International FMCA Convention - Perry, GA

During the week of the FMCA convention RV and I (and our ABA's) present 3 ARTitude Adjustment classes. An ABA is an "able bodied assistant"...something you need when you are teaching a class, and we make sure we have lots of help to make the class go smooth. In addition to our classes, there are other craft classes to choose from if that is what interests you.... like jewelry making, quilting, etc.

The theme for this rally was "Peachy In Perry" and we were asked to present a class using a peach design. Besides the peach tote bag we also presented a class making alcohol ink domino pendants and a class using acrylic paint with Chalk Couture silk transfers.

Peachy In Perry class picture

"Live Life In Flip Flops"
Chalk Couture Transfer Class

Alcohol Ink Domino Pendant Class

Peaches were everywhere ... peach pies, peach cobblers, peach milk shakes, peach jam, everything peaches as well as a peach tote bag!

Peachy In Perry Tote Bag Design

Looking around Perry there are probably just as many pecan orchards as peaches!

So after a fun week of visiting with friends, teaching enthusiastic and happy campers, we pack up everything and return to our winter base in Webster, FL. This has been a busy season for ARTitude Adjustment and our last class of the season is today - painting beautiful Habotai 100% silk scarves!

Did I forget to say Happy St. Patrick's Day?! It seems like we spend just about every St. Patrick's Day in Perry, GA.

It's been an extremely busy season for us and I'm looking forward to a little slower pace. This is the time of year many RVers develop "hitch itch" and start thinking about returning home and moving to cooler climates.

To all our RV snowbird friends on the move....... safe travels and happy trails wherever your "wheel estate" takes you across this great country of ours.

I LOVE FOOD TRUCKS! DON'T YOU?

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 13:59:00 +0000

Are you enjoying the national food truck phenomenon as much as we do? We have seen creative chefs and their food trucks all over the United States and the good thing about it is that it brings people together to do one of their favorite activities.....EAT. Getting to know each other better is usually a side benefit.

MONSTA LOBSTA
This is a favorite truck for New Englanders!

A lot of people who enjoy the food trucks say it reminds them of their backgrounds and where they came from. Or they may just crave particular food because of its freshness and flavor. One example is the popular Monsta Lobsta which offers lobster rolls and genuine New England clam chowder as well as another favorite, lobster bisque. This truck always has crowds in the central Florida area. Monsta Lobster is invited to Florida Grande Motor Coach in Webster, FL, frequently during the winter season and everyone always enjoys them.

POPPY'S MEXICAN 7 AMERICAN FAVORITES

Poppy's Mexican and American Favorites food truck is another favorite that usually appears in the central Florida areas. During the busy snowbird season this truck comes often to Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort in Webster, FL

GOOD EATS - a South Florida Food Truck
This food truck is always popular because it offers fresh seafood dishes.

If you enjoy fresh regional seafood you can find it on a food truck. Sometimes when we are visiting other cities we are able to enjoy food trucks like Good Eats. This food truck was recently at RiverBend Motor Coach Resort in LaBelle, FL.

GEORGIE BOY and ETHEL'S FAMOUS WINGS
"Spirit Food that feeds the SOUL"

Soul food on a food truck is a natural and usually where there are long lines. Georgie Boy and Ethel's Famous Wings, however, the collard greens and spicy cornbread were some of the best we've had anywhere! Many food trucks offer such a selection you take your time making a decision and you end up having to order a little bit of everything.

UP IN SMOKE

We learned several things about dining with food trucks and that is when you read the menu/sign on the side of the truck you have to take a few minutes thinking about what it is they prepare that you want more than anything else. Then you have to study the pricing which could surprise you when you go to pay for your order. So I guess you have to practice patience.

URBAN GRILL - Cincinnati, OH

Urban Grill of Cincinnati, OH, started out as a food truck and in time the people of Cincinnati adored the food so much the owners have built an amazing restaurant which offers delicious and amazing food. The food truck is still popular and as it says on the truck "Bacon Built This City".

HOG WILD

HOG WILD food truck was part of a bar-b-que cookoff near Galax, VA. The BBQ was delicious! No wonder.....these people are professionals!

TRACY'S TASTIES
MINI Cheesecakes

Tracy's Tasties is a treat machine in Atlanta, GA. How many times have you just wanted a taste of cheesecake, not the whole slice?! This food truck will supply the perfect size and flavor!

THE ATLANTA BURGER TRUCK

We're all about the search for the perfect burger and the Atlanta Burger food truck promises to deliver. The ingredients are a secret but this the one of the freshest burgers you'll find int Atlanta.
.

WILD BILL'S BEACH DOGS - Seaside, FL

Doesn't food taste great at the beach? How about one of Wild Bill's Beach Dogs in the Land Yacht District in a converted Airstream Trailer in Seaside, FL. You will definitely be back because Wild Bill's is a permanently based food truck in the middle of Seaside on Highway 30A....doesn't get much better than that!

RAW AND JUICY - an Airstream Food Truck in Seaside, FL

You can't go wrong at the RAW and JUICY food truck in the middle of Seaside, FL on Highway 30A. Always fresh and delicious and their menu is amazing!

FROST BITES - Seaside, FL

Another converted Airstream food truck in the Land Yacht district of popular Highway 30A is Frost Bites. An important part of going to the beach is staying very hydrated and the Frost Bites food truck can help you with that. Not only do they have delicious ice cream, drinks, but awesome lemonade freezes. Be careful or you'll get "brain freeze"

BAREFOOT BAR-B-QUE in Seaside, FL
Make it a perfect day at the beach in the Panhandle of Florida

BEAUTY OUT OF ASHES

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 16:37:00 +0000

Dade Battlefield Historic State Park - Bushnell, FL

Our winter domicile is in an area of great historical significance near the 80 acre Dade Battlefield Historic Park in Bushnell, FL. Until we stayed in this area we weren't aware of the importance of this State Park in Sumter County, Florida, discovering that this was the site of one of the most important and deadliest battles in the history of the United States. This park preserves the Second Seminole War (the longest conflict in the first 195 years of American History) battlefield which was fought on December 28, 1835, and marks the area where tribal Seminole warriors fought soldiers under the command of Major Francis L. Dade. Each year a reenactment of Dade's Massacre is held to retell the story.

Dade Battlefield State Park - "National Gold Medal Winter"

The activities held at the Park are always interesting and very well organized so I invited a friend to a High Tea which was held in the Lodge which holds 96 people, has a kitchen and facilities most comfortable for wedding and special events.

High Tea - Dade Battlefield

Since attending gourd classes, silk scarf dying classes and pine needle art classes, I had a pretty good idea we would definitely enjoy ourselves. That was an understatement!

Gourd Classes held at Dade Battlefield

Silk Scarf Classes - Dade Battlefield

High Tea - Dade Battlefield - 2019

High Tea - Dade Battlefield State Park - 2019

My Friend, Sandy Gallup - High Tea - Dade Battlefield State Park - 2019

The High Tea was hosted by the Dade Battlefield Society, an organization since 1987, which supports the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of this area. Through living history events, nature programs, social functions, educational and recreational activities, festivals, and the annual reenactment of Dade's Battle, the non-profit Dade Battlefield Society operates exclusively for charitable purposes.

Beautiful Dade Battlefield Historic Park - Bushnell, FL

Now when we hear of an activity or event at the Dade Battlefield Historic Park we make plans well in advance and know this will be an opportunity to enhance our own cultural awareness.

AN ALTERNATIVE TO SNOW

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 17:34:00 +0000

Motorhome View of Travel in the United States

In 11 years of full time motorhome travel we have met hundreds of helpful people and learned so much about the motorhome lifestyle. In addition, this lifestyle has taken us to numerous places we would never have seen had we not selected this unusual yet popular way to see our beautiful country.

Manufacturer's Rally - Goshen, IN

About 8 years ago I developed an art therapy and painting class for RVer's called "ARTitude Adjustment - It's FUN art...not FINE art", specifically aimed to entertain at RV rallies, RV manufacturer's meetings, RV conventions, and we started seeing a positive pattern. When ladies would sign up for a class at a rally in Georgia or Florida in the winter, it was possible and probable I would see many of them again when we held classes in the north in the summer. And then we would become friends on social media! Once someone comes to ARTitude Adjustment we look forward to seeing them again ..... because it's 2 hours of fun as well as getting to know each other.

RiverBend Motor Coach Resort
LaBelle, FL

RiverBend Motor Coach Resort on the
Caloosahatchee River
LaBelle, FL

A couple of years ago we were invited to present ARTitude Adjustment painting classes at a beautiful Class A motorhome resort in LaBelle, FL called RiverBend Motor Coach Resort. That year I had pneumonia and had to cancel the scheduled classes. This year we re-scheduled the classes and we are so glad we did! RiverBend is a beautiful resort on the Caloosahatchee River and is a tropical oasis when you visit Florida during the winter months.

Class Project Completed by

ARTitude Adjustment Class

RiverBend Motor Coach Resort

LaBelle, FL

Class Project
ARTitude Adjustment Class
RiverBend Motor Coach Resort
LaBelle, FL

ARTitude Adjustment Class
RiverBend Motor Coach Resort
LaBelle, FL

RiverBend definitely has some of the warmest and friendliest people ever, but we also saw friends we had previously met at other classes in other locations. My husband, Bob, assisted me in the presentation of all three classes. Classes were full of enthusiastic people, not just ladies (a retired Presbyterian minister participated), with all levels of artistic experience.

RiverBend Motor Coach Resort
LaBelle, FL

Welcome to our Paradise - Slate painted by
RiverBend Motor Coach Lot Owner

We thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality extended by RiverBend Motor Coach Resort residents and have been invited to return next season. We like to say about ARTitude Adjustment...It's FUN art...not FINE art!

MAY PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 21:43:00 +0000

When we are at the Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort, where we have owned an RV lot and suite for 10 years, I have offered a monthly art class for the past 8 years that not only satisfied my creative and artistic self but also has given me many opportunities to get to know hundreds of new people and allow them to get to know each other as well. Sometimes making new friends while you are traveling is difficult.

ARTitude Adjustment by Marty Whitney

Since beginning the classes at Florida Grande we have accepted invitations to present classes to other RV venues and named the course ARTitude Adjustment by Marty Whitney. I've taught these classes to motorhome manufacturer rallies, motorhome club rallies, Family Motor Coach Association International Rallies, private resorts and for private painting parties as well. This has allowed us many opportunities to meet hundreds of new friends as we travel throughout this great country of ours.

ARTitude Adjustment by Marty Whitney

Where ARTitude Adjustment differs from other painting classes is that canvas painting is rarely offered. We usually work with acrylics, sometimes alcohol inks, fabric paint, silk paint, etc., because RVers don't have room for canvases. We call it "FUN art...not FINE" art!

Peace Pole Painting Class

Completed Peace Pole

Completed Peace Poles

This class made beautiful hand painted Peace Poles in a recent ARTitude Adjustment class using wood 4 x 4's (4' long). The Peace Pole Peace Movement was developed in Japan in 1955 and since that time has been placed in over 200 countries. The phrase "May Peace Prevail On Earth" is used on the poles and reminds us to pray for world peace wherever we are.

Our class made their own designs and finished them by putting a solar light on the top and then planted them in their yard or gardens. A piece of rebar was installed in the bottom to assure the poles are stable and do not blow/lean over. The poles were then finished with a coat of protectant to block the heat and sun. They look awesome as you drive throughout the community!

After 65 years, the message of the Peace Pole Movement is more important then ever, and we hope it continues to spread:

MAY PEACE PREVAIL ON EARTH!

A Peace Pole is a hand-crafted monument that displays the message and prayer
May PeA Peace Pole is a hand-crafted monument that displays the message and prayer

May Peace Prevail on Earth
on each of its four or six sides, usually in different languages.
There are tens of thousands of
Peace Poles in 180 countries all over the world dedicated as monuments to peace. They serve as constant reminders for us to visualize and pray for world peace.

ace Prevail on Earth
on each of its four or six sides, usually in different languages.
There are tens of thousands of
Peace Poles in 180 countries all over the world dedicated as monuments to peace. They serve as constant reminders for us to visualize and pray for world peace.

INTANGIBLE SOUVENIRS

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 13:29:00 +0000

The year 2018 ended on a positive note and we now reflect on our memories of approximately 4,000 miles traveled throughout the southeast and northeast part of the United States and Canada, from April through October. Diesel prices were a little pricy in places like New York and Vermont - the highest we paid was $3.68 for diesel. You know what that means to an RVer....we stay longer and enjoy the areas we travel even more.

Tiffin Motorhomes - Red Bay, AL

Bruce Deaton's Paint Shop - Red Bay, AL

New Stovetop - Installed by Brannon Hutcheson

We always start with a trip to our motorhome's birthplace, Red Bay, AL., aka Tiffin Motorhomes, and upon completion of our appointments we headed in a northeasterly direction. By the time we leave we have addressed any issues or problems. For us our time passes very fast while we are in Red Bay since we feel comfortable visiting all the little towns within a 50 miles radius.

Cities in Alabama like Russellville, Florence, Tuscumbia, Muscle Shoals, and then Tupelo, MS are usually on our list of places to shop or eat at local restaurants we've visited in the last 10 years.

We had a schedule and had several RV manufacturer rallies as well as the 97th International Family Motor Coach Assn. Rally at the Georgia National Fairgrounds in Perry, GA, where we would teach several painting classes called ARTitude Adjustment by Marty Whitney.

Georgia State Fairgrounds - Perry, GA

Georgia State Fairgrounds - Perry, GA - Home of Annual
International Family Motor Coach Association

In June we met and traveled for 4 months with our friends, Clay and Frances Croom and Clay's 86 year young mother, Lynette Croom. Oh, and I better not forget their Puggle, Sadie. This worked out well for us and how could we forget the fabulous side trips and awesome meals prepared in 3 different Instant Pots and a Blackstone Griddle?! There was always something delicious to eat.

A highlight in RV travel is visiting places you had heard about all your life. The huge Cummins camping facility (345 acres) in Columbus, IN (Ceraland), which is an acronym that stands for "Cummins Employees Recreational Association", and was established in 1963.

Cummins Ceraland Park and Campground - Columbus, IN

Ceraland Campground - Columbus, IN

Elkhart, Indiana - State Fairgrounds and Campgrounds

Elkhart, IN - Tiffin Allegro Club Rally

We had a very exciting and successful Tiffin Allegro Club Rally at the State Fairgrounds in Elkhart, IN with 3 different ARTitude Adjustment classes by Marty Whitney. We met our friends in Shipshewana, IN - always an interesting place to visit and eat wonderful food. Do you see a pattern?

The agricultural ways of the Amish in Shipshewana have never changed.

Visit to RV/MH Hall of Fame

Old historical Amish Octagonal Dairy Barn in Shipshewana

Shipshewana IN natural unspoiled farmland beauty

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, OH

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - Cleveland, OH

Niagara Falls,

Looking from Canadian Side of Niagara Falls - Ontario

View of Niagara River

The Anchor Bar (Home of the original Buffalo chicken wings in Buffalo, NY,

The Anchor Bar - Home of the original Buffalo Chicken Wings

Order of chicken wings at The Anchor Bar

The Finger Lakes (all of them),

the New York State Fair,

Stowe, VT,

Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory.

We were in the Burlington, Vermont area to attend a Tiffin Allegro Club Rally at the Exposition Center in Essex Junction, VT - always a wonderful experience and opportunity to meet RVers from all over the USA as well as teach three more ARTitude Adjustment classes.

Essex Junction - Champlain Valley Expo Center
Site of Tiffin Allegro Club - Burlington, VT

2018 Tiffin Allegro Club - Over 300 Tiffin Coaches in Essex Junction, VT

2018 Tiffin Allegro Club Rally - Essex Junction, VT

Our heads swim with the details of every one of those small, beautiful and meaningful towns, villages and mega cities, and all the friends we made along the way.

Our back yard in Webster, FL - our Winter base

Finally Home! - Florida Grande Motorcoach Resort
Webster, FL

This was an exciting journey and although it was most enjoyable, we were happy and blessed when the time came and we were on the way home to get ready for our next adventure.

OVER 3 MILLION LIGHTS!

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sun, 16 Dec 2018 16:19:00 +0000

After a couple of weeks back in Webster, FL (our winter domicile), we were "ready to roll" when time came to attend a planned motorhome chapter rally with about 30 other motorhomes from all over the USA, being held in the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine, Florida. The St. Augustine area definitely meets all the criteria for a successful RV rally ... lots to see, lots to do, and plenty of shopping. A side benefit is seeing our friends who enjoy traveling in their motorhomes who are members of the Tiffin Travelers Chapter of the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA).

Compass RV Park - St Augustine, FL

Tiffin Travelers RV Rally - December, 2018
St. Augustine, FL

This is the 25th year the City of St. Augustine has hosted the annual Night Of Lights which not only draws people from Florida and throughout the USA, but is also recognized on an international scale. The festival's origins begin as a Spanish tradition of displaying a white candle in the window during the Christmas holidays. The tradition continues in St. Augustine with over 3 million white lights twinkling on the old buildings, landmarks along the Bayfront, and throughout the brick-lined streets.

Daytime View - Flagler College
St. Augustine, FL

Night of Lights View - Flagler College
St. Augustine, FL

Our group purchased group tickets for the Night Of Lights annual affair which began November 17, 2018 until February 3, 2019. The St. Augustine event has been proclaimed one of the best light displays in the world by many travel publications as well as National Geographic Magazine and Rachel Ray Magazine.

Daytime View - Casa Monica Hotel
St. Augustine, FL

Night Of Lights View - Casa Monica Hotel
St. Augustine, FL

Parking is always challenging in St. Augustine but during this celebration you have to make a special effort to get parked and locate your group. To participate, you arrive at one of several designated locations to purchase your reasonably priced ticket for a designated nighttime tour. You choose your transportation ....... either by one of 2 different trolley companies, a boat company, or a red train, and I can't imagine the coordination of people to make this happen.

Old Town Trolley Tour Company
St. Augustine, FL

The Old Town Trolley Tour was our mode of transportation and we might add it is also a great way to tour St. Augustine day or night.

View of Flagler College at Night Of Lights - 2018

Night Of Lights Trolley Tour - 2018

Lightner Museum - Night Of Lights 2018

Plaza de la Constitution - Night of Lights - 2018

The rest is up to you. Your evening is filled with Christmas music and winter songs and it's up to you to make as little or as much noise as you sing your heart out, wave to passers-by, and say Merry Christmas to everyone that you pass.

Night Of Lights - St. Augustine, FL - 2018

We left with our hearts brimming with Christmas Spirit....just the way it was supposed to be. Oh, before I forget...those lights were dazzling!

May the beautiful lights of every Christmas season remind

us of Him who is the source of all light.

David Bednar

THANKSGIVING THOUGHTS

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 20:16:00 +0000

We were excited to arrive back to our winter domicile, Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort, in Webster, Florida, after traveling from April 14 to October 14...about 6 months on the road this time, approximately 4,000 miles. Everything about our trip was interesting and rewarding but we missed our families and close friends in that period of time. Circumstances left us too far away to get back. It all worked out fine but sometimes you find you have to be patient and a saying I heard was "Let go and let God".

Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort
Webster, FL

Road travels in our RV - RV There Yet?

Our country is huge and traveling as well as finding decent roads requires a lot of planning. We are always amazed that our country is even more beautiful than we ever imagined, and while we know there are a lot of unstable and evil people running around, we were grateful to be shielded from any danger and only ran into the nicest humans...interesting, awesome people we now call friends, and many we will look forward to seeing again.

Sunrise at Florida Grande Motor Coach Resort

Getting back into our routine after 6 months away is not as easy as it sounds. We arrived about the same time many friends and "snowbirds" were returning and it was great to welcome friends and visit with our neighbors again. Our neighborly horse, Toby" had not forgotten where to come for snacks and peppermints.

Getting ready for sunset in our backyard -
our great neighbors are Toby, the horse, and the cattle

He is one "moo-velous" cow!

For me, it was harder to organize my art supplies and new projects with all the other household items that needed to be re-organized as well. Having our small suite is helpful but hard as I try, it is hard to have a place for everything.

Our Suite - also called a Casita - also our Coach House

A few days after getting back to Florida Grande my first scheduled ARTitude Adjustment Painting Class was held. We made a hand painted Christmas ornament snowman, complete with felt hat and scarf, out of a stair spindle, and it was even more fun than I imagined. Everyone is using their handmade ornaments inside their motorhomes, in their yard near Christmas flower arrangements, etc., and they turned out adorable.

First ARTitude Adjustment Class at FGMCR
November 2018

After 6 months absence from home usually means doctors, dentist, eye doctor appointments and enjoying reunions and celebrating with your family you missed while you were traveling. We missed grandkids' games, school trips, and just sitting and talking about what they did that day.

We are known as "YaYa" and "PopPop"
Kenneth, Kile, Kenzie and Khloe

Khloe - our Soccer Star Granddaughter

Our family celebrating after we returned at
Lake Weir, FL

Thanksgiving Day with our Family
Lake Weir, FL

Do you agree that even though we talk on our cell phones, exchange pictures, messages, etc., and believe we know what is happening, we still miss and treasure the close interaction with our friends and family as we travel?

BARN AGAIN! EVERY FARM BEGAN WITH A BARN

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sun, 25 Nov 2018 21:12:00 +0000

Our travels to central and upstate New York and Vermont was interesting at every turn on every road, mostly by the old barn architecture and scenic rolling farmlands.

An estimated 30,000 barns once stood in the vast Genesee which, at the time of settlement, stretched from Seneca Lake west to the Niagara River. Genesee is an old Seneca word meaning "pleasant valley". In the 1830s and 1840s this part of America was known as "the breadbasket to the nation." A book was written by author Daniel Fink, Barns of the Genesee Country, 1790-1915, which describes the farm structures that were a part of this important agricultural region.

Interestingly enough, there has been a nationwide effort to preserve historic farm structures called "BARN AGAIN!" introduced to encourage the preservation of agricultural buildings which is sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and Successful Farming magazine. Visit their website at BARN-AGAIN.

To qualify for the programs the barns must be at least 50 years old. The objective is not only to repair and return the barns to agricultural use, but also preserve the heritage of working farms for residents as well as tourists.

The barn rehabilitation program offers guidelines which state that the rehab work must not "materially alter historic appearance". Many owners who fail to win grants from the Barn Restoration program may still quality for a tax break which may be as much as a 25% tax credit for rehabilitation of historic structures.

After traveling through much of the agricultural areas of the central and northern New York areas as well as throughout much of Vermont, we can't imagine what hardships the farmers must have endured. There is a saying, "The only person who works harder than a farmer is the farmer's wife", and we believe this may be true!

HOW IMPORTANT IS YOUR NAME TO YOU?

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 18:33:00 +0000

Studio, Retail Shop and Offices
Mackenzie-Childs - Aurora, NY

Mackenzie-Childs Farmhouse Tour begins in
The Retail Store - 7 BR, 4 1/2 B Farmhouse

We planned a day trip to drive down the scenic Cayuga Lake Wine Trail to the 43 acre Mackenzie-Childs estate in Aurora, New York. Let me say there was quite a bit of historical information we did not know until after we toured the estate. The estate and spectacular farmhouse consists of 7 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, which also included a studio, carriage house and a retail shop.... just as we imagined it would be - whimsical and magical. The tour was amazing and we were allowed to go all throughout the farmhouse to see the beautiful home decor.

Retail Shop Courtyard
Mackenzie Childs - Aurora, NY

Lake around Studio, Retail Shops and Offices
Mackenzie Childs Farm - Aurora, NY

Walking Trails around back of Farmhouse
Mackenzie Childs Farmhouse - Aurora, NY

Walking Trails and Flower Gardens
Mackenzie Childs Farmhouse - Aurora, NY

I had heard an interesting story of the couple who came to New York from England with their 9 year old daughter in 1980. Richard and Victoria Mackenzie Childs purchased an old boarded up farmhouse for $20,000. Over the years, they invested over $1.6 million on renovations and additions. Unfortunately, in 2001 Mackenzie Childs went through bankruptcy, and was sold to Pleasant Rowland (the founder of American Girl) and their dream was lost, along with their brand name, Mackenzie Childs, which was sadly packaged with all the other professional copyright and trademarks, and then in 2008 was sold to a private equity fund, Twin Lakes Capital, owned by Lee Feldman and Howard Cohen. So, in essence, the founders of Mackenzie Childs have not been involved in the company since 2002.

I was naive to think these bigger than life personalities and their 300 employee creative staff were still walking around the beautiful estate doing their creative things. I later learned that they had moved on since the bankruptcy settlement in 2002. As they say, "from rags to riches". I remember reading magazine articles in the 1980's and seeing Mackenzie Childs beautiful hand painted decorative creations. There were so many new ideas and through many years I remembered seeing and recognizing some of their designs and unmistakable product branding.

This original piece has been in several magazines.
The first time I saw it was in the 1980's

Hand painted panel door

The murals actually portray local landscapes.

Besides private shops all around the country,
Mackenzie Childs pottery and hand painted furniture
is in demand and featured in Nordstroms
and many higher end department stores.

My understanding is there is a new Victoria and Richard company, also known as VandR Emprise. It will be interesting to see another designer branding and creative entity as they emerge after having learned many costly life lessons. In closing, Aurora, New York, and Lake Cayuga impart tons of interesting early American history, and we also enjoyed our visit to Aurora's beautiful Wells College and The Aurora Inn.

INCREDIBLE EDIBLES!!

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 19:23:00 +0000

Over the last 11 years we've been full-time RVer's, an important consideration of RV travel revolves around food....always!

Gianelli Sausage (since 1946) - A MUST at the New York State Fair in Syracuse, NY

The Westside Market
Cleveland, OHIO
Oldest market - home to over 100 vendors

We also enjoy local-owned restaurants ... like those with lots of vehicles outside all the time. We regularly visit Trip Advisor about local restaurants because those recommendations are made by people ... like you or me.

Anchor Bar - Buffalo NY
Home of the Original Buffalo Chicken Wings (1935)

Honey Hut Ice Cream Shoppe
Cleveland, OHIO - Since 1974

When we go grocery shopping it is to buy food we love to eat and prepare for our table and we always expect it to be fresh, delicious, and most likely locally produced. Local farmers' markets and local butcher shops are a plus wherever we travel. We became satisfied customers of grocery stores like Wegman's, Shaw's, Martin's, Piggly Wiggly, Trader Joe's, Fresh Market, Healthy Market and many other independent stores on a regular basis.

Not only is this an awesome farm - I met some of my relatives in
Ithaca, NY

FOR REAL - Relatives you meet in central NY
THE KNAPP'S

Ithaca Farmers' Market - Gorgeous!!
Ithaca, NY

Honey Farmer - Ithaca, NY

To participate in the weekly Ithaca, NY Farmers' Market
you must live within 30 miles of the Market - since 1973

Parkway Orchards - NIAGARA-ON-THE LAKE, ONTARIO, CANADA

WESTSIDE MARKET - Cleveland, Ohio
Beautiful and over 100 vendors

Finger Lakes Popcorn from Guess Where!?
Popcorn grown in Lansing, NY

Our Spring/Summer/Fall travels began in April, 2018, and around the beginning of June, in Shipshewana, IN, we began a 4 month journey of great RV travel with our friends, Clay and Frances Croom, Lynette Croom (Clay's 86 year young and beautiful mother and new RV full-timer), and their Puggle dog, Sadie, accompanied by delicious and exciting regular home cooked meals with our "dueling" Instant Pots, griddles and grills.

RV with Clay, Frances, Lynette Croom
at Country Hills Campground
Marathon, NY

Our meals usually were always with careful planning and completed with minimal effort, which made the end of every day a great time to sit outside, talk about what we had done that day, and make plans for the next exciting day.

Chef Clay and Chef RV
Preparation of Buffalo Chicken Wings

Chef Clay, Chef RV Preparing Dinner on Griddle
(Sadie is photo-bombing the picture)

The "saute" part of our Instant Pot Dinner

We celebrated birthdays, visited with friends, and always expressed our thanks to God that He had safely delivered us to another destination and blessed us beyond measure.

Celebrating the visit of our friends
Jane and Jean Unger at Essenhaus, Middlebury, Indiana
near Shipshewana, Indiana

Friends getting together in Goshen, INDIANA
Tiffin Allegro Rally 2018

I'm Singing Happy Birthday to Frances....
Too bad you can't hear my singing on this video!
Cleveland, OHIO

At the end of 4 months of travel with the Croom's we sadly departed to travel separate directions, but we will definitely plan to do this again.

Breakfast - Sausage, Pancakes and Vermont Maple Syrup!

Cajun Barbeque Shrimp
Laissez Le Bon Ton Roulet!

Anchor Bar Chicken Wings
Buffalo, NY

Gumbo with Shrimp, Chicken, and dainty Blue Crab Claws
Now you're talking!
Cleveland, OHIO

Country Fried Steak - To be finished with gravy in the Instant Pot
Junius Ponds, NY

Pork Tenderlions - Saute and finished in the Instant Pot
Junius Ponds, NY

Italian Sausage with peppers and onions
Delicious cooked on Griddle!
Junius Ponds, NY

Skirt Steak with Homemade Griddle Potatoes

Instant Pot Pork Steaks, Broccoli Salad and Fresh Ohio Green Beans

For the most part our cookware consisted of 2 Instant Pots, 1 electric Calphalon table top griddle, and the Croom's discovered the perfect small gas griddle/grill that was perfect for RV travel - and it came with a stand. Just like you would do with your grill, the seasoning of the cooktop assured the food never stuck to the grill top.

Clay Croom's Gas Griddle on the portable stand

Hamburger Night on the Griddle

Fried Shrimp Appetizer

Instant Pot Pork Steaks ready to be finished
on the griddle with barbeque sauce

We enjoyed many breakfasts, lunches, appetizers and dinners of unbelievable culinary delights. And always, without fail, this is what we had at the end of every delicious meal:

No leftovers ever!

FINGER LAKE'N GOOD!

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 17:46:00 +0000

If you've been following our recent blog posts then you can see we are moving at a snail's pace in a northeasterly direction. This post is about our two week stay in the beautiful north-south valleys of the Finger Lakes region of central New York. Now we understand why people love the Finger Lakes with its rolling hills and sparkling lakes.... we did as well. Our next discoveries will be continued in another region of the Finger Lakes....we just couldn't get enough!

The Finger Lakes Region of Central New York

We spent 2 weeks in a very lovely old town in Phelps, New York, at a well-cared-for campground called Junius Ponds. Like so many campgrounds in this area of the country, most Junius Ponds residents clear out by the middle of October.

Junius, New York

Small Pavilion at Junius Ponds Campground
Junius, New York

Gnome display at Junius Pods ("Senior" art)

Another "Senior" Artistic Display at
Junius Ponds Campground - Junius, NY

There are lots of little old towns in NY. Many of them have retained the old architectural downtown buildings. Cities like Waterloo, NY and Seneca Falls, NY have historical meaning but most of the little towns seemed to run together and we had never heard of many of them until this trip.

Waterloo, New York

Seneca Falls, New York

Scenic Skaneateles Lake, Skaneateles, New York

The Finger Lakes are Skaneateles (which is pronounced "skinny atlas"), Owasco, Cayuga, Seneca, Keuka and Canandaigua. This region was the home of the Cayuga and Seneca Indians of the Six Nations whose lands were devastated by the Clinton-Sullivan Expedition of 1779. After this Revolution the area was opened for settlement.

Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes Region
central New York

View of Watkins Glen, New York
Seneca Lake, New York

Seneca Lake, New York

Farm located near Geneva, NY

After 1830, with the linking of the Cayuga and Seneca Lakes with the Erie Canal, population grew and industry flourished.

Fertile lands and natural resources developed important products. Salt is manufactured from brine pumped from wells on the shore of Seneca Lake. The good soil and gentle winds have combined to make the Finger Lakes outstanding for growing grapes from which are produced champagne and other fine wines.

Reisling Grape Vineyard - Finger Lakes Region
Central New York

Hops Farm - Finger Lakes Region
Central New York

Prejean Winery - Seneca Lake
Central New York State

Fox Run - Seneca Lake
Central New York State

Worthog Cidery - Seneca Lake
Central New York State

Holstein Farm in Central New York State

Pick Your Own Apples and Tasting Room
Central New York State

Canandaigua Lake - Finger Lakes
Central New York State

ART Festival on Lake Canandaigua
Central New York

Picturesque Boat House Row in Canandaigua
Central New York State

Picturesque Farm in Seneca County
Central New York State

Our visit to the Finger Lakes region was long enough to make many new friends (lots of snowbirds), buy locally grown products in farmer's markets, go to festivals and art shows, and understand why New York is so very proud of such a beautiful region.

A GRAVE SITUATION INDEED

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 03 Sep 2018 20:23:00 +0000

Before leaving Buffalo, NY, we visited the famous resting place of many of the pioneers of the Buffalo community dating back to 1849. The beautiful setting has unmatched natural hills, valleys, lakes, streams and cultural masterpieces.

Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

The picturesque Forest Lawn Cemetery covers 269 acres and over 161,000 are buried there including United States President Millard Fillmore, Grammy Award singer and songwriter Rick James, and inventor Lawrence Dale Bell, founder of Bell Aircraft. In its almost 170 years this cemetery has become a chronicle of local history and deserves its designation in the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places.

Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

There are over 3,500 trees in Forest Lawn, representing 100 different species and varieties making the cemetery an important arboretum. Over 240 kinds of birds have been spotted.

Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

From the beginning there has been a policy of providing interesting and appropriate sculpture to the natural setting of Forest Lawn - making the cemetery an outdoor sculpture museum today.

RED JACKET - Seneca Indian Chief
Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

As you enter Forest Lawn Cemetery a larger-than-life statue of the great Seneca Indian Chief, Red Jacket (c.1750-1830), who managed neutrality on the part of his powerful Seneca nation in the War of 1812. The Senecas gave him the name, Sa-Go-Ye-Wat-Ha (He Who Keeps Them Awake). In this sculpture he is wearing a red jacket presented to him by a British officer, and on his breast is displayed a large medal awarded to him by President George Washington.

Gravesite - Millard Fillmore
13th President of the United States of America

In 1874, the 13th president of the United States, Millard Fillmore (1800-1874) is buried. Fillmore was probably Buffalo's most notable leader, a lawyer, Congressman, and vice-president of the United States.

Gravesite Memorial of Nelson Blocher
Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

The most lavish tribute to Victorian taste was unveiled in 1888. The unusual Blocher memorial actually is a floor-to-ceiling glass window and marble sculpture. The figures represent the father and mother standing and grieving over their dead son, Nelson, who died while grieving over a lover. A female angel (represents the lover) gazes down from overhead.

Private Mausoleum and Seating area - Chester and Gloria Stachura
Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

The private art deco mausoleum of Chester and Gloria Stachura was built to also include a polished black granite sofa or an S-shaped tete-a-tete sofa for passersby to rest.

Forest Lawn Cemetery - Buffalo, NY

Gravesite - Founder of Bell Helicopters
Lawrence Dale Bell - 1894 - 1956

The founder of Bell Helicopters
Lawrence Dale Bell

A memorial to Darwin D. Martin, friend of Frank Lloyd Wright
who designed the famous Martin Home

Frank Lloyd Wright designed a Blue Sky Mausoleum
containing 24 crypts--Broad stairs and soaring monolith
rise toward the heavens.

Memorial dedicated to those that perished aboard
Continental Connection Flight 3407 on February 12, 2009

Forest Lawn is one of Buffalo's most beautiful places and remains meticulously maintained for all to visit. Every conflict since the Revolutionary War is represented.

As writer Mary Lou Brannon said, "A cemetery exists because every life is worth living and remembering - always."

THE LOVELIEST TOWN IN ONTARIO

noreply@blogger.com (RV THERE YET?) — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 13:14:00 +0000

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario
CANADA

Several friends suggested we plan a trip to Niagara-On-The-Lake in Ontario if we were anywhere near Niagara Falls. Honestly, it's an extremely scenic trip and we are glad we took the time to visit what has been called "the loveliest town in Ontario".

Lake Ontario from Niagara-On-The-Lake

Niagara-On-The-Lake is situated on the south shore of Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River, and it's definitely an easy and beautiful drive to and from Ontario. Historically, this was the first temporary capital of the province and parliament was held here until 1796, when the capital was moved to Toronto (York). Niagara-On-The-Lake is the only town in Canada that has a Lord Mayor.

Inniskillin - one of many vineyards in the area of
Niagara-On-The-Lake

Side of the Road Country Markets area everywhere

Large Farms, Small Farms are prevalent everywhere

One of the Vineyards near Niagara-On-The-Lake

There's no mistake the land is rich and fertile with all the local wineries, pop-up side of the road fruit markets, and a wine country cooking school. Tourists are drawn to the quaint colonial style buildings, British Fort George, and other 1812 landmarks.

Fort George - an 1812 Landmark

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

Niagara-On-The-Lake - Lake Ontario, Canada

The Heritage District showcases the town's history and the buildings tell the story of the architecture of year's past.

Shops in Heritage District - Niagara-On-The-Lake

Heritage District - Niagara-On-The-Lake

Heritage District and Clock Tower - Niagara-On-The-Lake

If you have time to stroll through town you definitely feel the old world charm. The beautiful Prince Of Wales Hotel, a feature since 1854, is one of the first landmarks you see when you enter town.

The Prince Of Wales Hotel
Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

Flowers are everywhere!

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

You can't get lost if you walk through the beautiful neighborhoods which range from colonial to modern homes that line the neat side streets.

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

The Niagara Golf Club, a golf club since 1875, is the home of the oldest surviving golf course in North America.

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario

While we enjoyed our visit to Niagara-On-The-Lake we also enjoyed seeing all the beautiful landscaped farms and yards throughout this part of Canada. This was definitely a part of history we had not read much about and we felt fortunate to visit such a beautiful part of North America.