Gra Nomad Wanderings

READY FOR SCHOOL

2012-01-31T22:15:00.000+11:00

Well, he mightn't be going today, but he's more than ready! Maybe this could be called "practice".

The three year old isn't going yet, but took the opportunity to try on his big brother's uniform. No, the mother has not been able to fob off the 18 month old either.

There are times when they are like angels... maybe when watching TV?

This guy is making his own rules. He's gonna win them pretty comfortably I think. He's a con artist that's for sure... so, be careful.

BRAVE ERICA

2012-01-21T12:09:00.000+11:00

Here's Erica from Batemans Bay. She's one brave lady. Erica has melanomas on her legs etc. Not very pleasant. So a bunch of ex Goulburn High School folk who did the Leaving Certificate in 1962, gathered to spend a bit of time with Erica in Batemans Bay recently. Here she is with Wayne Mayo. Erica has a second-hand bookshop in Batehaven where Fay and I get a pile of our reading matter.

Here's Erica chatting with Wendy - Bill Frost's sister. Maybe that's Sue O'Reilly standing up with them.

Here's Fay having a chat with Sue O'Reilly. (Gee I hope I've got some of this right!)

Judy Jackson and Michelle Grimes. (Sorry if I've only got "single" names, or a mixture.... guess it shows that I didn't go to GHS.)

APIA INTERNATIONAL

2012-01-11T23:28:00.000+11:00

It's a great event and it's only 3 hours up the road from our place. The APIA INTERNATIONAL TENNIS event in Sydney.
We've seen Kvitova, Dokic (got cleaned up by Bartoli), Bartoli, Kuznotsova, Dulgheru and Li Na. In the blokes, we've seen Baghdatis, Del Potro (top seed), Kubot, Ebden (best young Aussie talent), Benneteau, Troiki (who beat Hewitt), Lleyton, Niemenen, Feeney (another young Aussie), Seppi and of course the Bryan brothers (most fun to watch).
Here are a couple of shots:

Mike and Bob Bryan are great doubles players. They usually win!!! They did today.

These 2 blokes sure win the crowds. Characters for sure.

These 2 people really enjoyed the tennis, even from way back in the stands.

Here's Matthew Ebden (right) serving to Baghdatis (left). It was a 3 set match with Ebden losing the tie breaker at the finish. A top game. Hope to see a lot more of this young bloke.

Even this Aussie contingent couldn't get him over the line. That's Dokic out, Stosur out, Hewitt out and Ebden out.
Trivia question: One player comes from AHO. What country is that? I know PAK, AUT, USA, CYP, but I don't know AHO. Please help me.

CATCHING UP AT CHRISTMAS

2011-12-20T23:01:00.001+11:00

It's really great catching up with folk in so many ways. We

went round to David & Maureen's for a barbie on Saturday
Joy has been with us (as per every other year) for this week
Deb(daughter) and the 3LP (three little pigs) are here for a few days
had a barbie tonight and had Beth n Barry and Jan Smart come and join us... AND Beth n Barry's eldest son, Paul, fresh from WA.

After they go, things'll be a bit quieter round her for a bit. Looks like Christmas Day will be just Fay and I, though daughter Deb and her family will get back here Christmas night for a couple of sleeps.

We've had quite a bit of fun these last few days. Makes you think about people who WON'T be connecting with family at this time. Bit sad.

Here we have the advent calendar (a la Debs) being "opened".

And Skype is great! We chatted with Bro Bill from Vancouver Island and Jenny in Seattle. Also chatted with Marion Giddy. Now Jan's Skype setup problem has been rectified (guess who did that???) and Joy is hooked up to Skype as well. Excellent.

Even the dominoes were in a party mood!

Barry Robbo and Beth were in great form.... as always.

Great to have Jan, Joy and Debs here to help us party!

...and Paul Robbo! That was a surprise! Good to see you big fella!

Yeah... Fay and I love having people pop in.... be it planned or unplanned. Hey.... I missed Smarty though.

SOME TAGS FROM NTH AMERICA

2011-12-14T20:11:00.002+11:00

Yeah, guess some folk think I'm a big kid at times.

I love Marg K and KB.... in that order!

Oh... there I am.... and there she is below!

Honey Bunny! It was on a Merc or a BMW too!

No comment.

Notice it's on a Cadillac!

Think USA beat England 3-1 in a soccer game.

Great golf Bill!

TWO PUG OR NOT TWO PUG

2011-12-13T19:03:00.000+11:00

Yep, that is the question.

The Peugeot on the left is the new 3008, while the one on the right is our three year old 307.

This one looks decidedly like a Wombat! It's owned by friend Tracey. Has similar 2 Litre turbo diesel motor as ours 307. Cheap to run and they go like the wind.

Yeah, it does look a bit like a wombat doesn't it? The 3008 is a bit higher off the ground and has a versatile "boot" compared with our more conventional station wagon configuration.

“Bike For Bibles” Christmas TV special

2011-12-01T08:34:00.001+11:00

“
Channel 7, 25 December 2011
11.30 am in most states, 11 am in WA (please check your local guide)

http://bikeforbibles.org.au/blog/2011/11/30/bike-for-bibles-on-tv/

GARDENING

2011-11-29T12:09:00.001+11:00

We've sure done a bit of work in the garden over recent weeks. There is a path through this part of the garden. The grandkids love wandering through it.

This part of the garden is what I look out on from the dining room. I start my day alone in the dining room, looking at this beauty. It helps that we've taken 2 trailer loads of weeds and clippings and prunings to the tip.

Fence is getting to be in need of replacement. There's a walkway the other side of the fence. That's the route to the shop.

Here is the chief engineer when it comes to the garden. She's done a mammoth job and put in a heap of hours.

Hhhhmmm. Well, it's like this.... I was mowing along... and ..... yeah.... they don't make pruning shears like they used to eh? Back to the gardening shop I think.

SEBEL KIRKTON PARK, POKOLBIN

2011-11-23T17:20:00.001+11:00

Would you like a stay in the Hunter, a couple of hours north of Sydney? Why not try the SEBEL KIRKTON PARK in the Hunter at Pokolbin. It's right in the heart of wine country. You will not be disappointed.

You should see the pool complex! Pretty neat too, although the spa wasn't operable while we were there. It's just 5 km from Cessnock, a lovely little country town.

FOUR BIG MEN

2011-11-23T17:09:00.001+11:00

...and now, in no particular order....
these are the new men in 2011! How cool are they?

I repeat... they are in no particular order....

hhh
Four grandsons.... so far! But wait.... there's more!!! Keep watching this space for more details.
aaa
And Deb said: Like the latest blog posting dad.

aaa

Jack – looking cute. As always.

Connor – eating. As always.

Logan – eating. As always.

Owen – pulling a silly face. Pretty common J

Think you managed to capture their interests!

A LEADING HAND

2011-11-16T15:02:00.001+11:00

This guy could also be called a "right hand man!" His leading hand... always the right.... points to where he wants to go and what he wants to do. It is very effective. Everybody knows what he wants and there are people available to help (help him get what he wants!) He has inherited his grandfather's good looks so he is quite a danger to society.

Here we are indicating once more. Maybe it might be called his right hand indicator!

Is there a likeness do you think? Maybe the eye colour is different.... nearly 18 months old. And looking quite menacing. He is one of FOUR gandsons we have. Keeps us poor and busy! But also very blessed.

GARDENING in CUDMIRRAH

2011-11-11T15:36:00.001+11:00

So... who's idea was it to have some jerk drop this load so I could shove it all over my garden?
How much did that cost???

The head gardener has already done this bit. Awesome!!! I'll keep her on. (Head gardener also cooks!)

My favourite plant is this rose near the letterbox. It really is great. And there's a glimpse of the head gardener below! She even cooks for me!!!!

Now.... what's this weed? Maybe asparagus weed. How do you get ride of it? And don't say "pull it out!"

This was a jungle before this week. Hey... we even have neighbours I never knew we had!

The area outside the telly room. Looks great. Wonder who's gonna spread all that mulch from out the front?

This weed.... is way worse than the other one. What's it called? Maybe Argentina weed.... named after a Sth American country if my memory serves me correctly... Brazillian weed????
It is WAY WORSE..... and spreads like.... like..... like a weed! How do you get ride of this? Can you spray?

This is the damage that the damn bandicoots leave after they've checked out the lawn! Mongrels! Anybody want a few bandicoots?

4.7 METRES OF PUG

2011-11-07T10:18:00.000+11:00

Thanks Keith at Trivett at Roseberry for letting me take the new Peugeot 508 for a spin. What a top motor car. Very comfortable, plenty of extras and just gorgeous to drive. This was the station wagon or "touring" as they say.

I drove the 2 Litre turbo diesel which has 120 kW of power. Peugeots have been doing diesels for a LONG time. I was about ready to walk out with the vehicle.

The big question.... will a 4.7 metre long Peugeot fit in the garage? Wait and see. Thanks again Keith.

HAT, TICKS AND DISASTERS

2011-10-24T20:05:00.002+11:00

Never leave your good hat when you're off wandering the countryside as a road support for a bike ride. UNLESS, you leave it at the NARRANDERA BAKERY, 108 East St, Narrandera. Ph 02 6959 3677. Thanks Nic and Margy for returning my cherished hat. If tyou're in the vicinity, drop in and have a cuppa. Great place. Nice folk. You might even catch Jules there - old teaching buddy from Dubbo who now lives in N.

Would you believe I found two (2) of these critters hangin' around. A bush tick. Can cause a person quite a bit of discomfort and can kill a dog. This guy was pretty healthy until I cremated him.

On Saturday Fay and I attended a training day in Nowra put on by Anglicare. Top day. Well done and we may be useful in the event of a disaster eg bushfire, rail crash etc.

The bride (with a bit of help from her husband), has done a heap of gardening, weeding etc. Tremendous. We can now see the front door!

fff

This week is very special. It's 5 years ago today that we lost Bob Pritchard (Perth). What a loss. So our thoughts have been with Wendy and the family.
This week's also the week that we lost Jim Smart - a mate of nearly 50 years. We say farewell tomorrow at a memorial service in Nowra. See www.wwtc6364.blogspot.com

HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM!

2011-10-21T22:26:00.000+11:00

Why is it that blokes so often have communication problems?Especially with their partners? Even fellas who’ve been married for quite awhile and have “good” marriages.

How come men just don’t see some things coming… or going?

What percentage of blokes are romantics? So, what happenedto the rest?

How can a bloke “lift his game” and win over his chick likehe did back in the olden days? Is there a formula?

What are the consequences if he doesn’t improve thesituation? Did you see Constable Bradley in Heartbeat recently? Mrs Bradley has“met someone”. Else! Zing! There goes the marriage! He was too busy to notice. Thesame night I watched a Ruth Rendell movie on the box. The bloke there – ColinFirth – couldn’t communicate with his young bride. She was only 25.

How many marriages can be saved? How many are saved? Howmany will just dawdle along without ever reaching the heights they once soaredto?

How many people settle for … average?

If you have a problem, mate, who can you share it with? Where to from here?

SYDNEY SPRING CYCLE

2011-10-16T19:31:00.001+11:00

Annette (with 2 kids in her chariot) on the left following Deb (with 2 kids in her chariot.) Always special to cycle over the bridge. Thousands of cyclists ride the Spring Cycle each year. Weather conditions were excellent.

Let's roll the clocks back to 6 am. At this stage, the three little pigs were still sleeping.

The bikes (and everything else) are ready for the day's event.

From the top of the stairs, we had to get 2 bikes, 2 chariots and 3 kids down to the platform ready for the train. We made it with several minutes to spare.

Then it was time for breakfast! Yep, weet-bix on the train.

Deb towed her chariot with two 20 kg five year olds in it. Congratulations Deb.

Annette did extremely well seeing she'd only ridden this bike a couple of times. We've just gotta get her into lycra I reckon!

This was my load! They only allowed me to carry 1 kid.

Deb and I wore our Bike for Bibles lycra. At this stage we were nearly home at the end of our ride. Maybe I rode 35 km - under load!

Then later in the arvo, we got into party mode. Good stuff as we celebrated Jeremy's birthday.

Here Jeremy chats with ex Coom-ite Alex Burridge. Great to catch up with folk we don't see too often.

VALUE FOR MONEY?

2011-10-14T19:34:00.001+11:00

OK. Computer on the left cost about $20. Computer on right is a $100 computer. Expensive one doesn't work. It is a VDO C3 model. It replaced a cheaper VDO model (also expensive) on the BH road bike. It didn't work either. So, off to ALDI where we purchased the cheap Bikemate computer. It has more functions and even gives the temperature. Unreal.

While I was there I managed to purchase this bike pump. It cost a big $19.95. Strike. I had figured I was going to need to pay $65 for one. Fingers crossed. Works ok so far.

Here's the trusty BH. A beautiful steed. Hasn't had a great deal of work this year due to unforseen circumstances. Do you like the pink handlebar tape? That's my Amy Gillett handlebars!!!

And to round things up - I bought a combo front and rear light. You guessed it - it cost not very much either. Ten bucks! Haven't mounted this as yet. [Have now.] The lights will go on the TREK 4300. (Mountain bike.) Then I'd better get riding eh?

INDOOR OUTDOOR

2011-10-12T09:39:00.002+11:00

Indoor/outdoor shots of these "three little pigs." Ages are 1, 3 and just turned 5. If they're this good, maybe their parents should have half a dozen!

Kids love roasting marshmallows when they come to visit their grandparents. Also their mother and grandfather get to satisfy their sugar intake.

FIVE PRESCHOOLERS...

2011-10-08T18:43:00.000+11:00

Connor, at 16 months, just needs to wear his helmet even when just wandering round the house. He's pretty safety conscious! Guess he's always ready if there's a bike ride on.

Meals are always interesting. Here's nos 1 and 2 of the three little pigs. Add in 2 Mayne kids and presto - five preschoolers!

Seems the boys love roasting marshmallows. Sorry about the sugar content Deb.

Bike lesson from an experienced road cyclist - Logan and his Mum, Deb. Can you see Hannah and Lachlan in the background? With their Mum, Annette.

Connor seems to have his sights set on this model. He's keen this fella.

Looks like the lesson is working. Confidence is growing.
ffgg
We enjoyed having the 5 kids and their mums for several days. Weather allowed us to do plenty of outdoor stuff including beach, movies and Swan Lake. Now it's a few valium and some restful evenings.

THE PARTY'S OVER

2011-10-02T20:08:00.000+11:00

They say what happens on the ride stays on the ride (or in Canada they say what stays on the ride, happens on the ride!) Well... that might be so, but when one of the team planks like this.... you've just gotta share the good news.

Narelle and son, Eric, are just 2 of the wonderful folk from Yass that look after us. Our team of 44 (dwindled to 40 following eliminations), were very well fed and showered by the kind folk from Yass... yet again. They have big hearts. Thanks very much.

I think this fellow was "parked" outside the Royal Hotel at Cullerin.

Georgie didn't ride as much as she'd have liked due to ill-health. She was a big help to me in looking after A team. Thanks Georgie. Get back to full health and maybe have a crack at it next year.

The A team were really happy to reach Goulburn after a tough 100 km. Thanks Dave C and Gordon the Yellow Dog for looking after the team. Special thanks to Jim Blaxland, Graham Stokes and Karen Stokes for the tremendous amount of work they have done in preparing for this ride. Very much appreciated. And I heard a bunch of people say... SEEYA NEXT YEAR!

1 MATTRESS PUMP-UP TO GO

2011-10-01T16:48:00.000+10:00

Sadly, Mark has been voted off. It had to happen. Couldn't stand the pace! Good try mate.

There's certainly a few dollars tied up in the bikes. I've been trying not to covet.

I did find one that might suit me. Here Dave is checking the brakes before I take it for a test run. It went well, but was a bit too heavy. Still looking.

From Young we travelled through Harden-Murrumburrah, Binalong and Bowning before arriving at Yass. The riders reckoned it was probably the toughest day of the week. Went through some lovely country. 99 km today.

Team D were quick again... as expected. Sadly they often miss out on seeing the kangaroos, emus etc that abound around us.

bbnnm

Tomorrow we head from Yass to Goulburn - our last day. It's been a bit tough on a few riders, with John, Georgie, Lani, Alec, Daniel and Levi all having a turn in a vehicle at some stage today. Certainly looking forward to getting back home after being a roadie for RIDE4RETINA and then BIKE FOR BIBLES.

WHO'S ELIMINATED NEXT?

2011-09-30T16:03:00.001+10:00

Lani, ace photographer, top weather presenter, capable navigator... and she can even ride a bike! Here she leads the team forward in difficult conditions. She is keen not to be eliminated.

So too is Alec. He has tried extremely hard not to be in the lower half when the decision is made to eliminate a rider.

Is Andrew safe? Maybe. Of course too long in the showers, or too many flats, or even eating too many lollies could easily deem you eligible for the cut.

Hannah was fearful she would be cut.... but she's safe ..... for now.

Justin got some of his books wet. That could've been the end of him.... but he's still here. Well done Justin.

James thought he had plenty to smile about..... BUT.... he is now departing. Good effort mate. Better luck next time.

Gordon and Diana were glad they made it through, despite Diana losing her "legs" 2 days ago.

She may well be smiling here, but not so when she learnt that she had been "chopped". Eliminated. Oh well... there'll always be another chance Sarah. You were a tad unlucky I thought.

Here's the team waiting nervously for the announcement! Georgie was not available for comment. She is still in the team..... JUST.

The D team. (Mark, Andrew, Stuart and Ian). They are a bit short. In fact they're a bit short in a lot of areas. You couldn't eliminate any of them or there'd be none left. Legend Mark Sutton (with lovely Rosie) joined us today. Actually he will have to do well to avoid being eliminated seeing he missed the first six days. I don't hold out much hope for him really.

GHGJ

The management would like to acknowledge the excellent photographic efforts from DC (skipper) and of course Lani. Without their efforts... who knows.... Thanks.

TOUGH DAY AT THE OFFICE

2011-09-29T14:53:00.000+10:00

It was a tough day at the office, even for experienced Roger Kauffman on his recumbent.

Narrandera to Temora... wet, windy, and a tad uncomfortable. "Why do I have to ride in wet knicks?"

Yeah... it was a bit much even for Lani, who had to rest up in the Pajero, look after the soft toys and provide weather reports for the other riders. She's looking for an opening in television.

Georgie the Wancer (cross between walking and dancing), was also a bit worn out. As I said, "rough day at the office!"

This was the lunch stop today. It pelted down raining a few times during the day, including at lunch time.

McCubben, Neill and Steve Clarke were happy enough despite the inclement weather. Lucky much of that wind was right in our favour. Tomorrow: Temora to Young.... an easy ride.
Oh, some people might be interested... the D group averaged 32.3 kph for the 133 km! (Must've been a strong tailwind!)

LIGHTNING TURNS TEAM

2011-09-28T12:49:00.002+10:00

Narrandera to Leeton - the long way! Jim has arranged a special detour. But then we started to get some rain and even lightning. Teams turned around and then headed back to Narrandera where we got some grub before then heading to Leeton. All good.

Always happy!!!

Always in charge!

The team gets inbto Leeton via Yanco.

Dave Chapple and Hannah. Cool guys... go for it! Total of about 65 km.

RIVERINA RIDING

2011-09-27T21:14:00.000+10:00

The B team led by Jeff Neill look pretty impressive as they fly by.

There are 4 teams.... A team, B team, C team and .... yep... thought you'd guess it.
Here the 4 support vehicles rest while we have lunch at Grong Grong. We travelled from Wagga Wagga to Narrandera today - about 115 km. Good riding conditions.

Dave counsels 2 of the speedy riders from my A team.

Andrew leads the D team with Paul C in the right of the picture.

Dave and Karen I reflect on the ride.

Three of the "quicks" from the A team - Hannah, Georgie and Lani.

bnm

Tomorrow we do about 100 to get from Narrandera to Leeton..... don't ask me how as I haven't looked at the maps yet.

BIKE FOR BIBLES BEGINS

2011-09-26T17:39:00.001+10:00

This bear - he's been named Alfred - is watching over the A team. I'm sure he must've been with me from Gold Coast to Sydney. He loves the car that's for sure.

The Bike for Bibles ride headed off out of Goulburn on Saturday morning. I joined them after they'd finished day 1 - Goulburn to Boorowa, 129 km.

Day 2 took the team of riders, all 34 of them, to Cootamundra. 97 km. Four teams each followed by a road support vehicle.

There are 10 support folk, some being straight roadies and some food roadies.

Day 3 was Coota to Wagga. Neat 104 km. Good roads and we had a tailwind with us!
The D team averaged just under 32 kph.

Tomorrow we head to Narrandera. Meanwhile my bride has made her way back home. (South Coast of NSW.)

dfg

Sure miss those RIDE4RETINA folks. It was a fun ride. (Gold Coast to Sydney.)

THE BLIND LEAD THE BLIND

2011-09-24T21:06:00.000+10:00

My co-pilot (in the Pajero) was Robin. She sees pretty well, but it's 10 years since she was unable to get her driver's license. She was in charge of food on the ride and an invaluable asset. She also helped with communications etc. Me? Well, Fay would tell you that without a designated navigator I'm hopeless! She could be right.
Today the riders set out at 8 am for the ferry through to Palm Beach. The 2 support vehicles went round, doing 100 km. Then at 9:45 am, we took off, heading south.... Pajero, riders, extra riders, Don/Lorraine from Nabiac (the other road support crew, and Anne Marie. She just did Palm Beach to Manly.)
Party when we reached Manly, then I took off for Earlwood, Goulburn, Yass & finally Boorowa.... 484 km for the day. That's because I'm now a road support for a Bike for Bibles ride - Goulburn to Goulburn in 9 days...
Tell you more tomorrow.
I.... felt a bit emotional at the end of the ride in Manly today. It was a special ride. Hey, I sure miss Harper (Lindy's guide dog.) You get attached to a dog like that when you're with him for a week or so.

Seeya tomorrow. Sorry about no pix. Maybe I'll steal some. .... well I found a few that maybe you haven't seen.

Total distance.... 1,000 km or damn close to it.

ONE SLEEP TO GO

2011-09-23T16:16:00.000+10:00

Tim Owen is the state Liberal member up this way. He made a point of catching up with us and reckoned he might be able to do something for Retina Australia. (At least I think that's what was happening.) Don't get him mixed up with Tom Phillips (just above.) Tim has a tie on in the top pic. Tom came on board to pilot Big Dog (John). Anybody who takes on that task gets a big thanks from us all and Troy slips him five or ten bucks (on account of it means he doesn't have to do it!

But wait! There's more! Stuart joins the gang! He's a Formston. We even found a team shirt for him so he didn't have to stand out in the yellow jersey he was wearing. In pic - Stuart Formston, Matt Formston and Lorraine Formston. I'm gonna check and see if they're any relation!

What a brilliant reception we got when we arrived at Green Point Christian School! Stacks of kids and staff.... and they gave the riders a guard of honour. Doesn't get much better than that. They'd been talking about the riders coming through and had raised a wad of money (I'm not sure how much... I'll find out for you.)

Pretty well behaved kids! And I've seen a kid or two in my travels.

Here Matt has a chat with Hayden who is vison impaired. Hayden was the centre of attention.

Finally made it to Crown Plaza in Terrigal. Wow! Elton (who is Lindy's pilot) wonders which bed to choose. Thanks heaps Crown Plaza for your generosity in hosting the team and providing brekky for us as well.

You oughta come and hang out here. Think you'd enjoy it.

bnn

Elton, a reliable source, has pedalled 932.78 km so far on this trip (of course with a bit of help from Lindy Hou!) He wants to do 67.22 km tomorrow as we head to Manly. Any bets?

BOURKES, BUNDA CK and the BREWERY

2011-09-22T22:19:00.001+10:00

On Wednesday, Team Tandem were in trouble! Like, back wheel trouble. They needed a wheel built. Hubs, spokes, rim, discs.... all that sort of stuff. And we didn't give them a great deal of notice at the bike shop.
Bourkes Bike Shop to the rescue! Not only did they do the job, but they were generous when the bill was made up. Thanks ever so much fellas. Maybe I shoulda bought this lovely Specialized MTB! $1499.

Guess what you can buy me for Christmas?

Here's Peter at work on the wheel. Well Peter, it is still holding up mate!

At Nabiac we stayed at Bunda Creek Lodge. What a great great place. Out in the scrub and roomy enough for about a dozen of us.

Great setting. I'll be back. Thanks Brian and Heidi.

Last minute teeth clean before heading off on the road to Newcastle. Robin is the designated cook or food roadie.

Here are the riders having arrived at the Brewery in Newcastle. About 150+ km by the end of the day.

And the full team - riders, roadies and the cook! They all look pretty happy to have made it this far. Mind you the Newie traffic we could do without.
Great to catch up with the Ekes tonight over a Thai meal. Tomorrow - to Terrigal. Maybe less than 100 km!

WORLD'S CHAMP JOINS RIDE4RETINA

2011-09-21T21:40:00.001+10:00

Jason English, world 24 hour MTB champion joined the Ride4Retina team today, as they pedalled out of Port Macquarie. He showed his prowess on the tandem by piloting Big John (which is a big ask!) Thanks for joining us today mate. Check him out in CYCLING AUSTRALIA. Photo shows Jason in front of the powerhouse John Domandl. What a team. (This is TEAM TANDEM.)

Casualties Coffee shop invited the team to pop in for a cuppa and brekky. Great folk. If you're in Port.... go for it.

Gee, I must've taklen my helmet off for this shot! Here I am with Matt on the red bike. Wow! Thanks for letting me try the bike out Paul.

Paul and Matt. The red tandem.

Troy and John with Elton and Lindy behind. John reckons Troy is one of the best pilots ever!!! Wonder what he said to Jason earlier in the day....

Ninja. What a guy! He's the Ginger Ninja. Don't ask me to start on this guy..... maybe I'll tell you on Satutrday.

Matt got interviewed by Renee from NBN. The reason for the ride is to raise awareness of Retinal blindness and hopefully some funding will help the research into inherited blindness.

Even GK had a chat with Renee. Lovely lass.

Captain Matt has macular dystrophy. Though blind, Matt can operate a computer quite well.
Other conditions include:

retinitis pigmentosa
macular degeneration
Best's disease
Butterfly-shaped dystrophy
Stargardt's disease
bullseye dystrophy
central areola choroidal dystrophy
chloroideremia
usher's syndrome
Laurence-Moon syndrome
Bardet-Biedl syndrome

RETINA AUSTRALIA (NSW) INC provides info, peer support and raises funds for research for these conditions.

bnn

Great BBQ put on by Port Macquarie's SUNDOWNER BREAKWALL Van Park Tuesday night. Thanks guys. Then this morning we had brekky at Casualties (as I explained.) Then Taree via Laurieton. Lunch there and then 30 km to Nabiac. The Nabiac Hotel were ready to welcome the riders and join them for a celebratory drink. I stayed in Taree to pick up the wheel that BOURKE'S BIKES were building. Thanks guys. Peter did a great job. Thanks Peter and James. (I shoulda bought a bike there.... they were such great folk. Wonder if Fay would've twigged?)
We stayed at BUNDA CREEK LODGE. This is a ripper! You should check it out.And we were fed by Lorraine Formston! Wow! We ate very very well. Thanks Lorraine. She's one of our roadies and lives in Nabiac. She's also Matt's Mum.
Tomorrow we're off to Newcastle.

600 UP SO FAR

2011-09-20T17:24:00.001+10:00

Here's the team ready roll out of Coffs. Note young EmilyParkes on the right - a 15 year old local girl. She's a top mountain biker but a pretty fair road rider too. Gotta be related to Cadel I reckon.

Troy the boy! He's a cool dude. Sometimes on the front of a tandem and sometimes riding a half bike (as above). That's Rosemary behind him.

Who's this? It was a top day today. It was a damn hard day... or was that just me. Think they did 170 km. Average speed around 30+. I was impressed.
John (Big John) has had 2 pilots that have never ridden on the front of a tandem before - Tim and Mark from Coffs. John was very pleased with both. Very grateful. Exceptionally happy with their performances.
Tomorrow we're off to Nabiac. Only 111 they reckon.

FRESH LEGS JOIN THE RACE

2011-09-19T21:27:00.000+10:00

Three tandems. Three pilots. Three stokers. Well.... actually Big John seems to go through a few pilots and Matt has had Rosemary initially and then Paul. Damn confusing for the roadies. Top photo is Elton with Lindy. 2nd pic is Big John behind Tim (new legs.) Bottom pic is Rosemary chasing Matt who has Paul as captain. Easy eh? Now we're at Bentleigh Motor Inn with Val and Chris - great folk. So we finished with 3 tandems and 3 half bikes. And then there was Emily! Wow! 15 years old.
Tomorrow we're off to Port Macquarie.

158 = 188

2011-09-18T21:37:00.000+10:00

Dale came on board to pilot Big John... just for a day. It's gonna be a big day.... about 158 km. Dale had had 2 previous experiences being on the front with John behind. This seemed like an ordinary exercise. His previous best was 100 km. Little was he to know what was in store. Well done young man!

Troy (on a single), Matt & Rosemary, John & Dale and Lindy (mostly hidden) and Elton. Most of them are smiling. The ride to Sydney is about to begin.

Troy (above) did a marvelllous job of keeping up with the tandems when they were flying. I think he'll sleep well tonight.
We put Dale on a bus bound for Tweed. I hope the bus driver wakes him or he might finish up in Cairns! Dale's new personal best is 188 km.
The riders did extremely well for the varied terrain. Plenty of traffic to negotiate along with roadworks, some dirt, a decent amount of climbing and a bit of good surface to finish on (plus a bit of unexpected dirt!)
Some max speeds around 72+ and an average speed up around 28. Very impressive. Damn good to be in Casino I can tell you. Tomorrow we head to Coffs minus Dale and with 2 new riders. (Some fresh legs eh?) Estimated distance - 180+ km. Great lunch organised by Rockin' Robin! Go gal! Hey, I've still got some of Fay's home made cookies left! Don't tell anyone.

Don Formston gets the award for the most road rules broken in 1 day. Well done Don. And he's gonna drive the Prado again tomorrow they tell me!! And Harper.... well.... just took everything in his stride.... even a handful of Clydesdales when they were thrown at him!

RIDE4RETINA READY TO ROLL

2011-09-17T21:52:00.001+10:00

Lindy Hou (in Ride for Retina gear) and Matt Formston are the movers and shakers regarding our ride which starts tomorrow (Sunday 18 Sept.) We're starting off with 3 tandems and 1 single bike. Lindy, Matt and John are the three vision impaired/blind cyclists.As you may have guessed they are all relegated to the back of tandems. I'm driving the lead car and Don and Lorraine are driving the vehicle at the back. I'll have Robyn Zanker and Lindy's guide dog Harper to keep me company. 160 km to Casino via Kyogle tomorrow. Too easy. Hey, I borrowed Elton's half bike and rode 70 km this morning. Cool! Temp - 31 degrees.
Got any questions?

PREPARING FOR THE GOLD COAST TO SYDNEY

2011-09-16T19:00:00.002+10:00

Wow! Here we are in Labrador. Labrador can be a dog (see previous post) or it can be a suburb of the Gold Coast. We are staying in Labrador, at Sandcastles on Broadwater. Check it out. We have 2 sleeps here before the team is fully assembled and we head south for the 7 day ride to Sydney. Yep, the Ride4Retina will commence. How did I get mixed up with this lot? It's that Lindy. Guess I promised you a photo.... it might have to be tomorrow. I really yhink I could stay here in my penthouse suite for a week!!! It's pretty comfortable. Wanna join me? Tomorrow I'll be swimming!!!! Cheers folks.
Oh, I forgot. The Forster Bowling Club were departing in a bus about the same time we were departing this morning. Lindy go on the bus and told them a bit about the coming trip. The bowlers opened their wallets to the tune of $62.50. Cool eh? Guess it helped when she told them how good-looking they were.... then she spoilt it by telling them she was blind! Looking forward to staying at Coffs at Bentleigh Motor Inn. Val and Chris have been wonderful. Seeya Monday.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

2011-09-15T21:31:00.001+10:00

Harper (see photo #1) and I are enroute to the Gold Coast. Actually Harper is a guide dog and wasn't allowed to come walkabout with me without Lindy. (Picture maybe tomorrow.)

Lindy is gonna cycle from Gold Coast to Sydney (Manly) from Sunday 18 Sept to 24 Sept. She'll be accompanied by about 9 other riders, at least 1 of whom is blind (like Lindy.) Hopefully the blind cyclists will choose the back seat on the tandem bikes. There will be 2 support vehicles, with Harper and I riding in the Pajero. At least if I get tired, Harper can take a turn at the wheel. You might note there's a flash tandem and a half bike on the roof of the Pajero. The flash tandem costs about $15,000 and helped Lindy to a medal in Beijing. Think she used a different one in Athens when she won gold! (Strike, the Pajero's probably only worth $18,000!)

Next post will be from the Gold Coast, all going well. G'night all.

By the way, if you wanna stay at a motel in Coffs Harbour, don't go past The Bentleigh Inn in the main street. Val and Chris will look after you.

BUSH TICKS

2011-09-10T13:39:00.004+10:00

Yep... that's the scene of the crime. That's where the attack took place. See villain below.
Well I can't tell for sure what sort of a tick it was, but I coulda done without it for sure.

Ticks are bloodsucking, external parasites that are often encountered by people during activities in the Australian bush. says the Department of Medical Entomology.

No, the picture above is the only one I could copy when I searched the cyber world. The bloke that attacked me was a small critter. It got me on THE NECK! Bugger! Fay pulled it out with the tweezers after it had refused to come out voluntarily. (Get out you bugger!)

Now my neck is swollen and the top of my chest is inflamed.... and I'm not a happy camper. ITCHY.... ITCHY.... ITCHY.... try not to think about it. My extra chins bounce when I walk about.

Antihistamine pills make you drowsy. Hey, I'm drowsy enough at the best of times! But now.... strike....

Only other person to look at it so far was the chemist.... yeah.... antihistamine pills he reckoned. Damn.... it's itchy now... knows I'm talking about it.

No cycling.... no jobs being done.... no nothing..... just drivin' me up the wall. Damn...

Better be ready for the RIDE4RETINA ... as I depart from Sydney for Gold Coast on Thursday 15 Sept.

Any positive suggestions? Preferably before this drives me insane.....

MATILDA in MILES

2011-08-31T21:51:00.006+10:00

Here's our rig. Mitsubishi Pajero with 3.2 L turbo diesel engine and 5 speed auto. It just loves to pull the avan (Matilda.) This was at Miles towards the end of our Qld trip.

One of fay's many tasks when travelling is to close up the avan. She's in there somewhere...

Nearly there Fay. Is the fridge door secured for travel? We've had the avan since the end of 2001. It's coming up to 10 years old.

Here we are all closed down and ready to do the last bit of the journey... through to Dubbo (about 700 km) where we spent a few days before continuing on to Sussex via Cowra and Goulburn. Now Matilda is clean, tidied, washed, dried and tucked away in its spot.

VAN TRIP IV

2011-08-18T12:28:00.002+10:00

The photos for this entry have been confiscated by the bureau of XXXXXXXXXXX. (See, even that's confidential!)
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We have had a great time so far..... BUT..... in keeping with current TV reality programs, we had to vote somebody off the VAN TRIP. So.... we have counted your votes and yesterday, we had to say goodbye to one member of the team.
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[Pause...]
Sadly, that person was......
[Pause...]
Julianne.
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Yes, our trip continues WITHOUT Julianne. This just shows how important your votes are! Please get them in before the next "cull". If you wanna vote for Fay.... or Rob or whoever.... get your vote in NOW!
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Those who are left are in Yeppoon. Tomorrow we will head to Miles (probably). There are other options. We do need to get back to NSW as we've heard things aren't going too well there. Like weather is cool, wet and all that sorta stuff. People are leaving the country, people are moving house etc. One person has foot and mouth disease.... just to name but a few of the problems they are facing down there.
I'll get back to you..... maybe with photos.....

VAN TRIP III

2011-08-13T11:58:00.009+10:00

Porcupine Gorge is just 74 km out of Hughenden. It has this huge magic triangular shaped rock looking along the gorge.

Our party took about 30 minutes to walk down into the gorge. We declined the swim option.

Fay loves this gorge walking. Can you see the triangular section above my head?

Julianne and Rob made it down and back.

Nearby was another lookout. Here the gorge has quite steep sides.

There were even barramundi in the rock pools! Where is Jimmy Smart when you need him?
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Next stop Charters Towers and then Airlie Beach (Whitsundays.)

VAN TRIP II

2011-08-09T18:56:00.005+10:00

So, what model Holden is this? What year? So, how old does that make it? One of the relics found in Winton. Yes, after Longreach comes Winton. The town of bush poetry. The scene of my last recital I believe. Winton has about 900 people.

These dinosaur tracks are maybe 95 million years old. Don't think that Holden was around then.
These tracks were at Lark Quarry, about 100+ km outa Winton.

This big fella is in a shed (poor bloke, no wonder he doesn't look happy) in Hughenden. Think he's a Muttaburrasaurus.

Doesn't matter where you go you can find a sunset. The land was pretty flat out of Hughenden.... but I found a bit of scrub.
Tomorrow Porcupine Gorge - 60 km out of Hughenden. Then we head towards Charters Towers.

VAN TRIP I

2011-08-06T16:01:00.011+10:00

This Cobb & Co coach was built in 1994. It comes out for processions etc. It's housed at Surat (just south of Roma) which was a changing station for Cobb & Co. in the old days.

One week down – two to go!

We’ve been through Newcastle, Narrabri, Roma, Barcaldine and now Longreach. (From NSW to Qld). We’ve travelled 2,000 km and seen a fair bit of country already. We’ve seen roos, emus, brolgas, dead pigs and a bunch of other assorted birds. Spent about $474 on diesel fuel and $160 on accommodation so far.

After this state being so wet recently with widespread flooding, tornadoes etc, the place is now extremely dry.Remember Qld is larger than Texas.

The next few days will see us wander through Winton, Hughenden and Charters Towers. From there it’ll be head south – we’re just not too sure which way. You can Google any of those places.

Today we visited the Stockman’s Hall of Fame; really quite a landmark here in Longreach.

Yesterday (in Longreach), we chatted with a barista who was making our coffee. Turns out she was from Canada. Where I asked. Vancouver Island she replied. Where on Vancouver Island? Would you believe COMOX! She comes from a small town a bit north of where bro Bill lives. In fact we were in Comox just 1 month ago.

Sure is great to be out caravanning once again. It’s laid back, you meet a bunch of interesting people, you see things and places that you’d otherwise not see (or do.) And it’s good to travel with a bunch – even a small one of 8. You just need to be mindful of others as decisions are made and understanding as some folk do their own thing here and there. No hassle. Tonight we’re going out as a group to RSL here in Longreach.

Tell you more in a few days’ time. Maybe when we reach Airlie Beach.

Here Bernie checks out some specials at ACE Drapery in Roma. Ya gotta see it to believe it!

These toilets at Morven (180 km west of Roma) helped decorate the place.

We enjoyed our stay at Barcaldine. These 2 brolgas were around to say cheerio to us as we departed for Longreach.

Wellshot was the name of a large pastoral holding and also the name of the town till they changed it to Ilfracombe. The pub had a whole bunch of hats pinned to the walls, with names of owners neatly attached.

Here's our gang (minus me of course) having happy hour.
When we visited Stockmans Hall of Fame in Longreach, Luke (pictured here), told us a bunch of yarns, did some riding and gave us a good intro/background to the Outback.

MADE IT TO SYDNEY

2011-07-18T14:18:00.008+10:00

Good to catch up with our #1 grandson, LJ. Cool guy. The studious type! And my, that hair!!!

#2, Owen, got right into the hockey scene with his new Vancouver Canucks' stick. He could be playing NHL in a couple of years' time.

#3 - Connor - maybe a racing car driver by the looks of things. He's getting to know us all over again. I do love this photo of him.

And here's the precious #4! Jack. Yeah.... he's a keeper! Think Nan has the touch.

Even Fa got a cuddle. Won't be long and he'll probably have more hair than his grandfather!

Celebrating with a champagne with Julia and Jeremy. Much to celebrate and be thankful for.

How blessed we are! How truly blessed.

Expect to be in own bed tomorrow night. In the meantime, we're soaking up time with the family.

BUTCHART GARDENS VICTORIA

2011-07-13T14:05:00.009+10:00

Over 100 years in bloom - they say! Butchart Gardens in Victoria, BC. On the island.

I took over 70 photos.... but not this one!

I think this crimson rose was called CHEVY CHASE. Small, bunched and beautiful.

It's a very popular tourist spot in Canada.

I'm gonna get into the gardening (Sue Dicko will be shocked!) when I get home. I want to grow some HELIOTROPE and ZONAL GERANIUM (PELARGONIUM) with some DUSTY MILLER. See, I know what I'm talkin' about!

BIRTHDAY BOY

2011-07-10T15:38:00.011+10:00

The organisers, Tom Krall, Dave & Barb Tribe etc, did a FABULOUS job in making the party such a resounding success. About 70 people enjoyed the fun and festivities at the Nanaimo Golf Club on Friday to welcome Bill into the SEVENTIES CLUB.

Two of Bill's close mates that said a few words were Glenn Knappett and Brian Pettit (with Elena Knappett in the middle.) Glenn rents out houses (should that read rents outhouses???) while Brian is an ex schoolie having trained at WWTC in Oz. Thanks guys.

Dave Tribe had a few stories to tell, as did ex Aussie Peter Humphrey. Fran was more considerate to Bill.

Bill chatting to a couple of mates before the action started. Course is lookin' good Dicko!

Of course there was the cake to cut.

Here, CR joins Fay and I in a hilarious moment the next day.

Margaret came over from Oz to help celebrate. What else could a caring sister do! She's had a ball. No doubt the partying will continue for a few more days yet. Pity some of you other folk didn't make it.

VANCOUVER and VANCOUVER ISLAND

2011-07-09T00:43:00.012+10:00

We had a couple of days in beautiful Vancouver, before meeting Margaret (my sister) who had just flown across from Oz and then ...

... we caught the ferry across to Vancouver Island. This is where Bill lives in Nanaimo.

It wasn't long before we were at the CROW and GATE pub having a bit of refreshment.

Margaret and Fay enjoyed the food and the drink at this gorgeous pub (a rarity in Canada!) Just think - there are four Keasts on the island.... is that a record?

Duncan is the town of totems, and there are quite a few to photograph.

From there we went to Chemainus and checked out the fantastic murals for which they are famous. Here are just a couple.

Party Central this arvo as we help Bill celebrate another milestone. He wouldn't tell us how old he was.... so I had to do the maths!! He's still lookin' pretty good, even if one of his knees doesn't seem to always work as he'd like it to. Join the club Bill.
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Special thanks to Knappetts and Pettits who've been just excellent hosts here. And we're not done yet!

FAREWELL USA

2011-07-04T14:23:00.008+10:00

We've left the snake country behind and reached Seattle.

Even managed a couple of bike rides with Monte! Excellent. Thanks Monte!

Some blokes have a bird in every port (I believe) - I have a bike in every port! Here's my Seattle Rodriguez.

Nordstrom is a great store. It has a great history too.

I ran into a bit of personal trouble here in Seattle. Three against one isn't fair I was always told. We did have a great time with Krogs and a lovely BBQ with Jen & Richard. (Jen was a Smart for Bernie's benefit.) Two of the above are Smarts' grandsons!

Now it's off to Vancouver where we've settled into the Kingston on Richards. Very comfortable and right where the action is. In fact this is about where the vandalism and rioting took place after the Stanley Cup hockey finals recently. We'll have 2 sleeps here.

AWESOME SCULPTURES

2011-06-30T14:04:00.008+10:00

This sculpture of four American presidents was commenced in 1927 and completed in 1941. It is at Mt Rushmore near Rapid City, South Dakota.
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This shot shows the sculpture of CRAZY HORSE, not too far from where the presidents are carved. It was commenced in 1948 and they have completed Crazy Horse's face (see below). Still got a bit to go! Meanwhile we don't have far to go. About 200 miles from Moses Lake to Seattle, tomorrow. Won't bewong now!
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MINNESOTA & SOUTH DAKOTA

2011-06-29T13:10:00.009+10:00

Really great to catch up with a fourth cousin of mine, Chuck and his wife Helen in Minnesota. They were at their cabin near Pequot Lake. A lovely part of the world.

Here is their view of the lake.

In South Dakota we viewed the carving of CRAZY HORSE into the rock. It started in 1948, and will be going for many many years to come. This is a model. The actual work can be seen below his left arm. They have only carved his face so far! Yes, it's a long long job for sure.

This bus driver thought he could get through a gap in the rocks. He JUST made it. This was in Custer State Park.

Needle Highway was the name of this area. Well named. The rocks were indeed like needles. Yes, we did visit Mt Rushmore where the 4 presidents have been sculptured in the rock. That work was done between 1927 and 1941. Photos in a day or so (with a bit of luck.) Do you know which presidents are in that sculpture?

IOWA - CORN, PIGS & FOOD

2011-06-25T12:51:00.008+10:00

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed." (Especially after doing all the eating we've been doing!)

There are many, many statues in Newton, Iowa. This is just one of them.

We went to Prairie City to have tenderloins and treats. We chose Goldie's Diner. It didn't disappoint.

We even got to meet Goldie. What a character. Thanks for the tucker Goldie.

At last I got a ride on a bike... of sorts. This one was built prior to 1920. Yikes! Pretty short cranks. SOLID tyres! Practically unrideable - but I rode it. Thought of Mulga Bill.
Our visit to LIVING HISTORY FARM was well worth it. This house was owned by the Flynn family. We spent the best part of a day there.

A favourite spot was Cardinal Corner where we used to go for dessert. Ice creams were delicious. And huge! Thanks heaps Bryan & Marcia for a great time in Iowa (as usual).
Off to Minnesota tomorrow. About a 6 - 7 hour drive. Think Fay might have to do some driving. Otherwise, how else will I be able to sleep?

QUEBEC CITY

2011-06-23T09:19:00.014+10:00

Just think - we weren't planning on visiting QC! Gerard told us we had to go. And did we enjoy the place. You guessed it - weather was a bit ordinary, but we survived.

I tried cropping the photos but when I want to put them on the blog, they revert back to their original size and shape. Oh well.

Sure looked and felt a bit European to us.

Loved the greenery and the planter boxes (or whatever they're called.)

No traffic on some of the streets... I think.

The ferry cost us just under three bucks each - that is each way. Total of $12 (for 2 people). Less if you're old like we are. Save 20c on each ferry trip.

Le lapin saute - great place for a feed. Service excellent. Warmer reception than in some other parts of Quebec.

Can you see what brand the bike is? Couldn't resist.

Characters in the sky looked great also. Yeah - we enjoyed our short time in this ancient city.
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Now back in the States - in Iowa. Next stop is Minnesota! (Saturday & Sunday.)

NEW BRUNSWICK and QUEBEC

2011-06-21T23:54:00.011+10:00

We shoulda worn white! Here we are with Gerard and Maria (New Brunswick), getting into lobster and champers! Really good fun. Thanks guys.

Maria was an accomplice - took Fay to fabric and quilt places. Fay bought material while I photographed ideas!
This boardwalk used to be 2 km long. Now only 800 m thanks to storm on 21 Dec last year.
Fay of course had to paddle in the Atlantic Ocean (at least I think that's what it is.) It's the strip of water between PEI and NB.

Here is an old church - not really. It was built in 2004. Gorgeous. Looked like it was centuries old.

Here's Gerard working on the lobster. Did a great job mate. Also a good tour planner.
Stayed at the simple motel - MOTEL SUR MER. Yep, on the water. The St Lawrence seaway. In Canada... approaching Quebec City, so, cost $93 CA, and.....

...this fellow travelling pilgrim (cyclist) and the motel lady (not pictures), didn't speak English! Still a lovely spot and allowed us an easy start the next day into the beautiful old Quebec City (photos tomorrow). The cyclist (Patrick) and Fay and I were the only people at the motel. Lucky we got the seniors' price eh?
We have actually reached Newton, Iowa and will hole up here (like a mob of bushrangers) till things subside a bit. Do washing, catch up with Bryan and Marcia Thayer, eat ice cream etc.

PEI - Part 1

2011-06-18T10:15:00.005+10:00

Charlottetown is the biggest place on the island. Loved George's pub!

Fay enjoyed checking out Anne of Green Gables area. Pretty neat.

This is inside the house.

We also went to see ANNE & GILBERT - the musical. Great show. PLEASE click that and have a look. It was a fabulous show. The story of Anne of Green Gables... and probably the story of Lucy M Montgomery - author of Anne of Green Gables. Fay read the books when she was in primary school.

JUST FOR REVHEADS

2011-06-14T08:59:00.003+10:00

Heaps more photos to come when server feels better!!! This bloke Paul has another 70 just like this one. Ponti, Dodge, Chev, Buick, Caddy etc. Found in New Brunswick.

TOO STUFFED TO BLOG

2011-06-11T11:55:00.004+10:00

Reston, VA to Fairfield CT (or is it CN? Connecticut anyway.) Thanks Rex, Jenny, Ira etc in Reston.

Distance today: 300 miles

Driving time: 6 hrs 53 mins

ave speed 43 mph

consumption 36.2 mpg

fuel put in - 9.27 g @ $3.669/g = $34 (In New Jersey somewhere.)

amount paid in tolls - $31.10 (most expensive bit was crossing George washington Bridge somewhere.... at least it took us 15 mins to cross so we got value for money!!!!)

Highlight: Meeting Margo & Scott at Joppatowne (near Baltimore). They are newly found distant rels! They took us for a spin in their boat... towards Chesapeake Bay. Thanks guys!!!

Lowlight: Traffic and tolls.

BIG DAY TOMORROW. Gotta catch up for lost time. Sleep early tonight.... AFTER HOCKEY GAME FINISHES! (Vancouver Canucks v Boston Bruins.)

JUST VIRGINIAN PLATES

2011-06-09T06:14:00.012+10:00

Yes, I'm OK, and so is Rex, our host here in Reston, Virginia. He is quite adept at spotting plates now. There seems to be a whole bunch of "fancy" plates from this state. Here are a few.

Guess this is the shortened form of progress.

Hard to find a lady Ninja these days, but we did eventually.

Do you know about parrotheads? Think they're connected with Jimmy Buffet.

So.... any suggestions? A sporting match? Or this is where the grandkids live? Who knows?

Tea party. Important part of American history.

Good to see the horsey people are in for their fair share. Think you pronounce the plate with a bit of a whinny!

Seeing we're wandering round the nation's capital, I thought I should include this one.
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Another day in at Washington DC tomorrow and then we head north towards New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Yes, a different country even!

SEEING THE NATION'S CAPITAL

2011-06-07T21:27:00.013+10:00

The nation's capital didn't disappoint! Here is our resident historian finally getting to visit a place where she has been wanting to visit for decades... in fact about half a century! She's made it to Washington DC! (She looks happy!)

This really fascinated me - and I'm happy with the shot. Any ideas? Beautiful.

The U.S. Capitol. (Sorry about the spelling, but that's how they want to spell their capital.)

The Smithsonian Museums - this represents the American Indian one, which we really enjoyed. There are about 12 of them (Smithsonian museums) just in case you're wondering.

The Smithsonian Museums - Air and Space. Spent a heap of time here. Remember what happened on 21 July 1969? A couple of dudes (in white in the picture above) landed... yes, you guessed it.... on the moon!

I think the year was 1932 and it was Emilia Earhart who showed the boys just who was boss of the air. What a lady! What a legend!

Jefferson was one of the impressive, influential presidents that the US has had. Here is the memorial to him, complete with a huge statue of him inside.

Roosevelt was also very impressive and the memorial for him is a suitable, extensive and creative one.

The forgotten war - Korean war - in the fifties. Huge numbers of dead, wounded and captured.
The display was extremely impressive - especially viewed at night. Sad that so many have died in such wars.

The Lincoln memorial. We have read and listened to his speech. Awesome. The memorial is suitably situated on Independance Avenue. The lighting was excellent.
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The other one which was of course most impressive was Martin Luther King's speech. They are in the process of putting up a huge memorial to King. We even stood just where he delivered the speech at the Lincoln Memorial.
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I wiI will have to check with Fay and of course Rex (our host and guide) to ensure accuracy of what I've written. This visit took us a day and a night and I fear we are not done yet! There's certainly sites we have yet to explore. Maybe tomorrow.

FAREWELL NEW ORLEANS

2011-06-04T05:31:00.008+10:00

What a great city is New Orleans! Man, we enjoyed our brief time here. Thanks Lane and Liz for helping to make this such a memorable visit.

I'm not too happy with the photos. Think I needed a wide angle lens!

The wrought iron balconies were very common, and often with gardens up there.

We've left New Orleans and after driving for 2 long days (nearly 9 hrs driving each day) we are in Virginia, staying with Mick and Therese & their 3 little pigs! Now in Newport News, VA. Hope to visit Jamestown and maybe Yorktown which are close to here. Meanwhile great to not have to drive 500+ miles today!
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And good onya Roger! Got past Novak and now will do battle with Rafa!!

TUESDAY IT MUST BE NEW ORLEANS

2011-05-31T22:28:00.010+10:00

Not all residences have been restored.... six years after Katrina.

When the rescuers had been through a house, they marked them with an X to show they had been through it. This house had been renovated and they had decided to keep the X.

Here is the "Make It Right" scheme.... with help from Brad Pitt. The places are environmentally cool also.
Guess some folk just decided to walk away!

Very stylishly renovated. Plenty of colour - which is very New Orleans.

Why would anyone wanna go to New Orleans? Louis Armstrong sang “Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans?” back in the 40s.

The city of New Orleans with a population of half a million people, sits at the mouth of the Mississippi River in the state of Louisiana. What a different city is New Orleans. You don’t have to be here very long to believe that it has a charm all of its own. In fact, I liken it to Alaska – maybe it’s hard to describe the place but you can’t help getting a feel that it is SO unlike the rest of America. But then I’m beginning to think that about other places we’ve been too in this vast country.

Currently staying with Liz and Lane in their penthouse condo – maybe that’s why one feels the charisma of the place after having only been here for such a short time. Last night for dinner, Liz cooked up a bean dish that you have in New Orleans on Monday nights! (At least that’s what they tell us.) You can check out Liz' blog at www.marinatedinflavor.tumblr.com - cool.

Yesterday we experienced a condensed taste of the place as Liz drove us around – the streetcars, the bars, historic St Charles Ave, the sad evidence of Katrina’s visit here in 2005, the rebuilding, the colourful houses, the beautiful green parks in the city and the visual remains of the celebrations they had to mark Memorial Day.

Amazingly, New Orleans has a history a bit similar to our Aussie history. Named after a French regent, the place was initially filled with “thieves, prostitutes and other undesirables” (from the AAA Tour Book 2011). Yes, it was a mini penal colony! No wonder it’s got some oomph, some gusto, some character. No wonder it says…. “I’m not gonna die!”

The famous French Quarter (the true heart of the city?) suffered disastrous fires in 1788 and 1794, taking out practically all the French structures. Today the architectural influence is more Spanish than French.

Why haven’t we discovered N.O. before now? One year we were to take a car here but when crunch time came, the vehicle was not road worthy. Another time (1970), we were enroute when Fay became quite ill and we had to abort and return hastily to the safe haven of Canada where our health insurance was going to be a happier situation. Still another time we were to fly in from South America in 2006 – Hurricane Katrina did it’s damage the previous year which put paid to that visit. BUT, here we are now. Let’s have a crack at this city! What can I wear so that I don’t look too much like a tourist?

WE IS NOW IN LOUISIANNA

2011-05-30T14:31:00.012+10:00

Remember Ron, 90%!
Hey, Chari and Ron have looked after us big time! We don't need to eat for the next week and a half. Sure had fun partying with these guys - in and around Derby - near Wichita, Kansas.

Fill 'er up thanks, and give me some coffee please. This coffee cost me 43c (US cents!) There's enough coffee in this cup for the day!

Not a bad mug eh? I mean the one I'm drinking from! That'll be able to feed the whole Sussex Inlet tennis team on Monday mornings!

You need the right maps, preferably some experience and above all else, a very good navigator! I have a brilliant navigator! Today we are going to drive 637 miles (over 1,000 km) in what turned out to be 11:30 hrs of driving. First on I35 (interstate 35), then onto 380 before we got into Dallas, briefly onto the 75 (which is also the 121), then ring road 635 E (make sure it's an E), and then I20 E. Another important thing is watching the exits - they're all numbered. (Just passed exit 552! Yes, the bride is having a drive right now. Yes, the bride, the brilliant navigator, is actually at the wheel.)
Left Derby at 7 am. Arrived Natchitoches in Louisianna about 7:30 pm. Natchitoches is about 50 miles south of Shreveport - a city of 200,000 that neither Fay nor I had ever heard of. If you can pronounce that name (Natchitoches) then I'll shout you out in New Orleans! I still can't pronounce the name of the town.
Even with my exceptional map reader, we got a bit lost today - momentarily. Finally we found Cabelas. What a store! See below. Fishing, hunting, boating, archery, sporting clothes, ... did I miss something? Heaps of stuffed animals and...

...opportunity for kids to shoot animals via TV shooting games. (You'd be good at this Pete!) Gotta train 'em early they reckon.

Don't know how this bison got there, but he looked pretty much in charge.

The moose is still one of my favourite animals. He is huge! I only found 2 fully stuffed moose in the shop. I lost track of the number of deer and elk. Only found one caribou. Staff are great. It's a fun store, even if you don't buy anything!
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Tomorrow we head into New Orleans.... meanwhile, we'll enjoy Natchitoches!
[It's now just a week since the deadly tornado in Joplin!]

A FEW OLDIES

2011-05-28T08:58:00.007+10:00

OK, what models and makes and years do we have here? Found in Nephi, UTAH. This is the only reason I can imagine anybody wanting to call in to Nephi! We did stay at the Safari Motel.

Picture B (above)
Picture C (above)
Picture D (above)
Picture E (above)
Picture F (above) These are specially for Peter Anderson, Andrew and Creighton, and Bill & Alpal. And for Ron who took all those photos in the salt mine. Thanks Ron.

UNDERGROUND SALT MINE HUTCHINSON

2011-05-27T11:56:00.006+10:00

AUSTRALIA v USA Pie eating competition. Can you get a look at these pies? In Kansas, they really know how to make pies. Like, REALLY KNOW! Anyway, I didn't let the side down at all.

Fay and I with Lonnie who took us down into the underground salt mine. Fascinating.

We went 650' down, down, down!

This is a hunk of salt. Just think, the Statue of Liberty is 152' tall. The Seattle Space Needle is 605' tall. Where we were today, there was 38 acres of salt mine! Unreal.
There is UNDERGROUND VAULTS & STORAGE there. They use the salt mines to store valuable docs, films, etc etc. Do you have something you wanna keep safe? Here at Hutchinson you can store some of that stuff!

More eating! This is ribs and sides. Thank goodness I went for the small!!!
We head off to New Orleans, Louisianna on Sunday. It'll be a 2 day drive - 14 hours.
Thanks Chari and Ron for looking after us bigtime!

10,000 in UTAH

2011-05-24T13:22:00.014+10:00

We have wanted to return to Red and Bryce Canyons ever since we went there back in 1969.

These canyons, and others, are in southern Utah. From here we went to Las Vegas in Nevada.

I'm not all that good a photographer unfortunately. These landscapes are really HEAPS better in the flesh than my best efforts with the Panasonic Lumix.

I figure that a picture is worth a thousand words.... so I'd better stop talking and let the photos do it for me.

Bryce Canyon is incredibly huge. You have to drive from view point to view point.

Just shot this out of the car window as Fay was heading away from the canyons.

This part was quite spectacular.

After leaving Utah we had 2 sleeps in Las Vegas, Nevada. Since Vegas, we've travelled through Arizona and now into Gallup, New Mexico. We're headed east towards Wichita! Is that a good thing or a bad thing? Just heard about Joplin being devastated. Over 100 dead, and remember, they were READY for tornadoes in that area! It'll take us another 2 days to reach Wichita, Kansas. Oh, forgot, I traded a Victorian number plate for 4 plates (New Mexico and Arizona!)

SPECIALLY FOR PETA

2011-05-20T15:19:00.012+10:00

I caught Mum having lunch in Seattle with this really creepy guy (see above). He just wasn't a pleasant sort of bloke.

...on the other hand I found a lovely lass - Kierstin. She and I are good friends. I've invited her out to Oz. She graduates from college pretty soon. And she collects number plates!!!

Lynn and Monte might come too! They are tandem bike riders from Seattle. They have 11 bikes downstairs! We have to return to their place on 2 July!

This just counts as ONE bike.

This is HALF the apple pancake Kelly and Dave talked us into having this morning before we left Seattle. It would have fed half of India I think! Oh well... that's enough sugar for the week I guess. Hey, I gave half the pancake to Fay!! What you see is only my half.

The Original Pancake House. 8037 15th Avenue NW Seattle. Give it a try. Here we are with Dave and Kelly. He's the bloke who flew us round the San Juan Islands back in 2006. Kelly is the one who suggested it! She's had a tough time of late... well they both have. So, they are in our prayers. May your recovery continue kelly and may your patience ..... how do you say? Improve? You know what I mean. She wants to be better..... yesterday! Love you both.

Love this little HYUNDAI ELANTRA too! Goes like the wind. Economical. Fun. We have it for 44 more days. How many miles do you think we'll do in that time?

Fay found a Mini! Were they really that small? She had one in 1966-67.

Are you allowed to run two plates?
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Now are you happy Pete? Strike, you put the pressure on a guy.

MULLIGATAWNY in SEATTLE

2011-05-18T10:50:00.008+10:00

We found GRAND CENTRAL BAKERY and CAFE in Seattle. And, on a sunny day! Around 16 degrees!

Great food and a lovely eating area. Very old and traditional with new ideas.

Clean and fresh and very delicious. Thanks guys. We'll be back.

Make a note of it, OK?

Also went to the PUBLIC MARKET down near the water here in Seattle. A real tourist spot, but with some very creative shops.

Think they had just about everything.

No, Fay didn't buy a fish! She bought a fridge magnet (at a different shop!) Unfortunately I didn't get a picture of the famous fish throwing at this shop, although we did witness it. They sure chuck big fish!
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We leave Seattle on Thursday 19 May and head for Las Vegas via southern Utah.

SEATTLE

2011-05-17T09:54:00.008+10:00

When we arrived yesterday Seattle was difficult to see in the mist! But today... it's fine. Homegrown is a cool eating place here. Sustainable sandwich I think they say. Queen Anne and w Boston Street. They do "cool" food, and some hot stuff too! I got caught with a quite spicey soup. When I couldn't manage it any further they gave me a toasted turkey, bacon, avocado etc toasted sandwich. Yes, gave! Great people with a great shop. Thanks friends. We'll be back.

Some pig eh? It's a food vehicle too! Number plate says, SOMEPIG. Sure turns heads here in Seattle.
Fay and Jen have a look out towards Seattle. Lovely view. Thanks Jen for taking our booking into your "hostel". And getting an upgrade when an English couple booked out! We couldn't have asked for more, complete with your above average four year-old twin boys!!
Yep, this is what it looked like when we arrived at 8 am Sunday morning. Photo taken from the Norwegian Pearl.
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Wednesday we pick up our AVIS rent a car and take off on the ROAD TRIP. Want to come Stiv? Bill? Anybody else? First stop - southern Utah. Then Las Vegas. That's about 2,000 km.

GLACIERS AND SOME

2011-05-14T03:39:00.011+10:00

I've got some text at the bottom. For now, just enjoy the beautiful scenery. It sure was magic!

Yep, we managed to get a bike ride in while in Alaska! Read about it below.

Ketchikan, Juneau and then Skagway. Today we dock at Prince Rupert in BC.

Here's our ship - photo taken from the top of the tramway in Juneau.

Just starting to get into the icebergs, which finally stopped our forward journey and meant we didn't get to see the face of a particular glacier that the captain had hoped we would view.

This canoe trip ewas just excellent - in the wilderness. Got up close and personal with Davidson Glacier.

Yep, that's us!

And that's "Davo"!
Our ship resting at Skagway.

Wow! Wow! And WOW!

I cannot describe the last two hours or so.

We left Juneau, Alaska, about 2 or 2:30 pm. Juneau of course is the capital of Alaska, not Fairbanks.

They have a bunch of excursions you can take. We did a “BIKE AND TRAM” one this morning. We were disappointed that the ship departed so early, but now, as we meander through TracyArm, amidst heaps of small icebergs, watching gigantic glaciers pass by on both sides, we know why the ship left when it did. Indeed, we have a beautiful sunny afternoon to watch these incredible, breathtaking monsters. We just stand (or sit) and gaze at these huge mountains covered in snow and ice. So peaceful. So still. So absolutely beautiful. God. What a GREAT CREATOR!

[Written at 6:30 pm Wednesday 11 May 2011.]

· * * * * * * * *

The dining here on Norwegian Pearl is just excellent. We try not to overindulge. We try and get some exercise in each day. Sometimes we are successful and sometimes we are not as successful. BUT, what happens on the cruise, stays on the cruise! Isn’t that what they say?

There are several dining rooms to choose from each time you wish to eat. The waiters/waitresses have been just excellent. They come from a range of backgrounds, much like the passengers. There are many we’ve met and befriended from the Philippines, Singapore etc. Lovely folk.

The bike ride this morning was great. Been hanging out for a bike ride since leaving Eugene, Oregon, on Friday morning 6 May. [This trip was specifically a “non bike” trip – whatever that means.] So far we haven’t bought a bike in the USA. But then we haven’t left the country have we?

We didn’t ride all that far today, but we were taken up a mountain and allowed to ride down! Cool! Exactly! Extremely cool! Flying down a hill at about 7⁰ with not quite enough clothes on. Forget about “cool” – it was COLD! Man my head was cold. My head was incredibly cold. But… it only lasted for a season. The ride was really good. Seven of us with 2 guides on bikes and 1 guy in the sag wagon. Bikes were quite good quality. Hybrid bikes with disc brakes. They did the job. [If I was in Juneau for about 10 days, I wouldn’t have gone cycling at 8am today! I must be getting weak.]

Remaining excursions include:

· Catamaran and then a large canoe to the toe of a glacier – Thursday

· Mysteries and traditions of the Northcoast native people – Friday

Thursday’s one is at Skagway, Alaska, and Friday’s at Prince George, BC.

What haven’t we done yet on this cruise? Ten pin Bowling. Swimming. Hot tubbing. Pub crawling. Trying our luck at the casino (just doesn’t appeal to us.)

One hit with us (and heaps of others) was DAVID NASTER. He’s a comedian who has a belief that humour and laughter are essential for a happy and long life. (Something like that.) He has three books:

1. You Just Have to Laugh through Tough Times,

2. When Work Gets Tough You Just Have to Laugh and

3. Is There Laugh After Death?

I think Everyman and David would get along fine.

· * * * * * * * *

The entertainment has been varied and professional. We saw a tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons tonight. Fantastic! There’s comedy, R&R, quartets, soul and jazz performers, acrobatic/juggling lunatics, Broadway hits, poolside parties, late night rock, exercise classes, rock climbing (haven’t done that yet), movies, golf, tennis, bingo, pub trivia, ten-pin bowling, daily Sudoku, a DJ, devotional prayer with guests and even Nintendo Wii! It’s been really great. In fact we’re going to bed early tonight so we’ll be able to do the excursion tomorrow and then continue to party after that. It’s about pacing yourselves. So, finishing off the bottle of red in bed tonight with music playing on the netbook…. Thanks Woody (Wagga) for the netbook; thanks Megsy (LA) for the music. Excuse me while I get into the cot! Seeya later….

##### Arrive Seattle Sunday ####

A FEW PIX - IN OREGON

2011-05-08T13:26:00.005+10:00

Gee... I think I shoulda bought this one! It had a belt drive... no chain, no grease.... real COOL! Wonder what it cost in Aussie dollars????

Jess and Emma Bear. Thanks for looking after us while in Eugene gals. We really enjoyed our time in your bike-friendly city.

This bike I'm on has been to squillions of countries. Will tell you more about it and its owner later. This was taken in the Bike Friday building.

Here is Kooka. He spied this penny farthing at Jo's place in Corvallis.

Jo's lovely home. It was great to catch up with her once again. We're negotiating with her on a trip to Oz. If she comes, she'll probably bring a bunch of older cyclists out! I mean senior cyclists.
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[Now in Vancouver and about to depart there Sunday morning. Cruising to Alaska on the inside passage.]

AMTRAK CASCADE to VANCOUVER

2011-05-08T11:37:00.002+10:00

Kooka drove us from Eugene to Corvallis on Thursday where we connected with Joellen. Jo and her late husband Vladimir were really good to us back in 2006 so we wanted to catch up even though we didn’t have much spare time. Sadly Vladimir had passed away last year and when we arrived – surprise surprise, it was Vladimir’s birthday! Cool! We’re now working on Jo to come out to Oz with a bunch of cyclists!

Jo put us on the 6:13 am Amtrak Cascade. Yep, more train ride! This was only 6 hours (I didn't travel too well) followed by a bus trip of 4 hours. Got into Vancouver – one of our favourite cities – just after 5 pm.(I had a travel sickness pill before this trip.)

We’ve sure been spoilt by Patronas, Smiths, McCarthys, Berras, Ellen and Jo during our time in California and Oregon.

In Vancouver we stayed at HAPPY INN in Burnaby. Comfortable and reasonably priced at about $70 US. It was a $40 cab ride to the motel. Went to AMOROSA PASTA HOUSE at 7874 Edmonds St Burnaby. Bit out of town, but the food and service were really great. Siobhan looked after us and took our booking for Saturday night. We had a lovely South African wine Sav Blanc, with house bread with olive oil and Balsamic vinegar. Then we had garlic bread topped with mozzarella. Beautiful. We finished with a very tasty minestrone soup. Didn’t break the bank - $32 CAN plus 15% tip.

Oh, guess how long it took our busload to go through customs at US/Canadian border? 40 minutes! Unreal. I figure we’ll go from Can to US or vice versa another 6 times before we get home. Get used to it eh?

· * * * * * * * * * * * *

I interrupt this message with a brief but important advertisement. If you don’t want to read the ad, skip to the part further below. Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars – Roasted Almonds - are the official energy bar of the PGA tour. Fair dinkum! They are just beautiful! Now, if we can only work out where we bought them! Cancun, Mexico? Orange County? Pasadena? Who knows. Gee they taste great.

Another ad: Check out vancouvercyclechic.blogspot.com – we met David today. It’s his “baby”. (I haven’t even checked out the site as yet!

Today (Saturday) we did the tourist thing. We wandered downtown Vancouver. Along Robson and Pender and Denman. Right down to the water. Got invited to a Russian party tonight. Sorry, busy watching Canucks play Nashville and eating at Amorosa Pasta. Go the Canucks!

Can't get photos on so will post this and try again/////.......

DAYS 16-18

2011-05-05T14:48:00.007+10:00

Got a spare 27 hours? Ride the Amtrak from LA to Eugene, Oregon. Takes you through Santa Barbara, San Jose, Oakland (San Francisco), Sacramento (California's capital) and Klamath Falls.

Jack Jack (dog), Emma (6 month old bub) and her parents Peter and Jessica have been spoiling us rotten here in Eugene - "The World's Greatest City of the Arts and Outdoors". It has a uni, the Nike corporation and 3 big companies - Burley, Co-Motion and Bike Friday. (The previous 2 times we've come through Eugene, we've bought a tandem bike!)

Fay enjoyed having a ride all round Eugene - absolutely the best bike trail town in the world!

Seeing Peter had 10 bikes in the shed, there was a pretty good chance I'd find one to my liking. Sure did! It's a SURLY, same as Fay's ride, but with road bike config.

Fay even had a go on a recumbent! She sure had some style too.

They have some great bike and walk bridges across the Willamette River too. I reckon they should have the Australian Bike Friday gathering here one year! What do you reckon?
Eugene has a population of about 157,000. At least 2 universities.
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From here we head to Corvallis (Oregon) for a day and then by train and bus to Vancouver in Canada's British Columbia. If you want to email us, after Saturday, address is:

gkeast4503@pearl.cruisemail.net

Thanks Patronas, Smiths, McCarthys, Berras and Joellen for looking after us while we were in California and Oregon. We've had a great time.