tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84082213140822634152024-02-06T20:07:11.430-06:00TraveLiving Journey - Our Life as Full Time RVersUnexpected events in our personal life, at work and in the economy started a sequence of events that ended up with us becoming a 'Full-Time RVers'.
Truth is - we love it! and enjoy every moment we can.
On the way, we are learning how to make this huge shift and share those experiences with you.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.comBlogger148125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-80907409081510923482011-08-10T13:19:00.002-05:002011-08-10T13:23:00.253-05:00Last Episode for the Season<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">I am debating and thinking about it for some time. Deciding one way and then changing my mind again, and again, and once more. I think that finally I got to a conclusion – I am not going to continue with blog, at least for now, and its current format.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cbAVqaxk5RM/TkLLXfppRtI/AAAAAAAAG14/Pu7ulXqX3hc/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520210%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="NorthCascadeNP 210" border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJo6reBzFk-6oYmucSxU-UhkgU0941MYglSToKgCZkAGtiEfJhYnF1cbLLs6s5ba6D8DdHG3E9-ZF7SdEcd8iHEdCgYSlBKyUAlIC7s-T3MOm_ZMJYaTp-fxBCW6Fi-JgRqRWvbn1_fcMs/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 210" width="599" /></a></span><br />
<h2>
A lot has happened but nothing to say</h2>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GK2RZFgSq2A/TkLLYXeBYeI/AAAAAAAAG2A/8lTIubeWvaI/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520015%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="NorthCascadeNP 015" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-diNSK9sbKX8/TkLLYpZrLwI/AAAAAAAAG2E/srPOlyNmmU0/NorthCascadeNP%252520015_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 015" width="182" /></a>Wednesday, August 19th, 2011 – </span></strong>Many things have happened since my last post. We had a friend from work staying with us for a weekend with his family. They are from Germany and visiting the US. We visited couple national parks together and even hiked together. I also flew to Minnesota and we finally got all of our belongings back. More about it in a second, but I would like first to get to the main point.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-g5fAzaxVuVA/TkLLasXjTBI/AAAAAAAAG2I/n4r4G60yxZI/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520009%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="NorthCascadeNP 009" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yrlmL-0QR6U/TkLLcesi6zI/AAAAAAAAG2M/dhW0ZRR5x_k/NorthCascadeNP%252520009_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 009" width="182" /></a>When we started our Full Time RVing life it was a very special experience. We drove around and had a lifestyle that was so exciting that I felt I would love to share it. Where we are, how it is to live in an RV, and how can we mix RV life with work and other aspects of life. I started by just sharing our trip map, with photos and stories about the places we have been to, but before I knew it, the format became a full blog. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L0p4AVJwbOQ/TkLLcuIfxuI/AAAAAAAAG2Q/myhli3eXR8M/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520304%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="NorthCascadeNP 304" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AdeU8433tfU/TkLLdLzTzQI/AAAAAAAAG2U/4VaMUlJSzMI/NorthCascadeNP%252520304_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 304" width="182" /></a>Many RVers are blogging, because it is interesting, exciting and special. But I did not see too many people blogging about the ‘normal’ stuff. A blog without a backbone. Some blog about cooking, or photography or other hobby they might have. Some are blogging about a concept or idea they are passionate about, and many others are blogging about professional and technical subject.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EylaPPBMEZ4/TkLLduMgNkI/AAAAAAAAG2Y/4S2YbMwxI0Y/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="NorthCascadeNP 002" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-G202Baf-n6c/TkLLeE0nuJI/AAAAAAAAG2c/nOkXNj6m9JA/NorthCascadeNP%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 002" width="182" /></a>The point is – I feel I lost the thread of my blog. I have nothing to blog about - as a subject – not as a content… Yes I can share my life experiences as I raise my son, eat dinner or work, but this is not a subject for a blog. This is something you share on Facebook (Or Google+).<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-PUvxgUdJ07w/TkLLemyru1I/AAAAAAAAG2g/ryiivSPPGzw/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520043%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="NorthCascadeNP 043" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--gBsPAvJVy4/TkLLfjotS6I/AAAAAAAAG2k/SsKA3MRNUr0/NorthCascadeNP%252520043_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 043" width="182" /></a>So here I am, living in a house in a town, raising my son and working. Patti is working too and we are adjusting to be ordinary again. I still drive around and see all those RVs and think – that used to be me, and I miss it, but for the meantime – I need to wait until we have our chance again, and maybe revive this blog.<br />
For now, I think the blog is going to hibernate. Since I enjoy blogging, I might find another subject in a different format to blog about, and if I do – I will tell you here in this blog about it.<br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_8K7EXnHjHI/TkLLgIb9RYI/AAAAAAAAG2o/Nu4Fmpc4-DY/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520063%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="OlympicNP 063" border="0" height="397" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-O99YGVNWz2Q/TkLLg4ZCxmI/AAAAAAAAG2s/qCCgPSQcvUI/OlympicNP%252520063_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 063" width="598" /></a></h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Catch up</h3>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-of74NK-B28A/TkLLhALdcwI/AAAAAAAAG2w/RLB3gkrxeag/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520022%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="OlympicNP 022" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7yboBsMpS5c/TkLLk_6p2eI/AAAAAAAAG20/q17dJuMeRb8/OlympicNP%252520022_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 022" width="256" /></a>So just before I go, let me try to catch up and see where things are standing. <br />
I just came back from MN with all of our belongings. It is all unloaded and we are slowly putting everything in place. Many things got ruined from water and mold, like our bed and mattress, so we need to get a new bedroom set for us now. That basically puts the house in shape, and take us out of the temporary living mode we were until now. Still lots of work to do, but slowly we are getting there.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1A8dRbLi9OU/TkLLlT78CiI/AAAAAAAAG24/D1Gjz0tkaB8/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520058%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OlympicNP 058" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rzlZQG25wNY/TkLLoU1QHpI/AAAAAAAAG28/g9vHpnlNLlU/OlympicNP%252520058_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 058" width="256" /></a>My son is adjusting to his new life, and Patti and I are adjusting to him too. Next week I will enroll him to high school, and by the end of this month he will start his new school year with his new friends in a new place.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4EcWLIgT3eI/TkLLo355upI/AAAAAAAAG3A/1k9QYdJuJlI/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520113%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="OlympicNP 113" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2Sd3Z-suo5M/TkLLpe-Q8EI/AAAAAAAAG3E/JJIKslikt-k/OlympicNP%252520113_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 113" width="256" /></a>And me? I am working most of the time in my home office. I spend the afternoons with Patti and my son, still trying to develop my routine and find new interests locally. Maybe I will join some photography club, or the local synagogue. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ayoirma0wPc/TkLLpn5UdII/AAAAAAAAG3I/VuL8QJYj1bg/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520188%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OlympicNP 188" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AYrgllLMB1Q/TkLLszSRjNI/AAAAAAAAG3M/Oax4rdoPATE/OlympicNP%252520188_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 188" width="256" /></a>The last weekend of July we had a friend come in from Germany with his family, and stayed with us for for the weekend. We had great time together – they arrived just in time for Friday night dinner and saw me blessing the wine and the Challah bread while reciting for the Shabbat. The next day we drove to North Cascades National park and took couple hikes there. One of them was extremely hard for me – we climbed non-stop for 3-4 hours until we got to a point where there was so much snow and mud, that we had to turn around and come back. The views were amazing though and I am sure I lost a pound or two as well …<br />
On Sunday we visited the Olympic National Park, west of Seattle. Here again, we took a hike, but it was much shorter and easier. Most of the pictures in this post are from those two hikes.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vBr3jlAa008/TkLLtGiK7vI/AAAAAAAAG3Q/DnTVqL3sUiA/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520320%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="OlympicNP 320" border="0" height="394" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mdFt3x24PMQ/TkLLtw8ZDXI/AAAAAAAAG3U/DuPRUkb2fVE/OlympicNP%252520320_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 320" width="593" /></a><br />
<h3>
Keep In Touch</h3>
For now, I am not 100% sure what I am going to do regarding blogging. I might post from time to time when we go for a vacation with the RV or have a special event, so you are welcome to keep me on your following list. One thing for sure – I will go back to Full Time RVing, and I will resume posting to this blog once I do.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-v3TF3yV-bPU/TkLLuddBcHI/AAAAAAAAG3Y/4svUCEgBx-s/s1600-h/OlympicNP%252520209%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="OlympicNP 209" border="0" height="400" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KT6_FPyD2G8/TkLLu3y3eOI/AAAAAAAAG3c/jfu3Eem0-3s/OlympicNP%252520209_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OlympicNP 209" width="602" /></a><br />
In the meantime – you are more than welcome to become friends with me on Facebook, or better yet – on the new and emerging social site – <strong>Google+</strong><br />
So – Keep in touch!Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-49009929098765663082011-07-27T00:39:00.000-05:002011-07-27T00:49:14.196-05:00It has been a week already<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">Hard to believe but it has already been a full week since I came back from CA with my son. When you don’t think about it, is seems like the time flies, yet on the other hand it feels like my son is living here forever. Turmoil and storms are calming down and dust is setting as our life starting to shape its new tracks with the wheels of time.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pSZbPJ5ZLp4/Ti-mwPnHjUI/AAAAAAAAGjM/-uuFH3eWwA4/s1600-h/BlueBloom%252520002%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Blue Bloom in our back yard" border="0" alt="Blue Bloom in our back yard" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OGlpYrBN9Aw/Ti-mxiTn4CI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/cHvsi_xaCAc/BlueBloom%252520002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="602" height="400"></a></font></p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4">Tuesday, July 26th, 2011 –</font></strong> it was exactly a week ago when we went to court, got our freedom and flew back home. Since then many things have changed and still are changing, but in a slower pace and a more relaxing manner.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eFlvTK4o0Tw/Ti-myN-fCBI/AAAAAAAAGjU/nCvVzcANdzg/s1600-h/IMAG0241%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Chicken Tika Masala for Shabbat" border="0" alt="Chicken Tika Masala for Shabbat" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XXbsN2zMb4Y/Ti-myYCprkI/AAAAAAAAGjY/407mG5I7WJ8/IMAG0241_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="203" height="257"></a>In the first few days, my son simply slept in an air mattress in a temporary setting in his new room. He got his computer by the bed and was happy as can be. The next day we went and bought him a new TV, although we could not connect it yet. That was another huge step for him, as now he got the computer connected to a big screen TV with the XBOX, all controlled from a remote keyboard and mouse. The only activity is moving his fingers on the remote and his eyeballs…. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Y3GVrn2P2h0/Ti-mzoVdbVI/AAAAAAAAGjc/YZZyK4mqr0U/s1600-h/GalsBedroom%252520006%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Building the room" border="0" alt="Building the room" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QfXAhX4Yos8/Ti-m0HI8v8I/AAAAAAAAGjg/CeL69Jbu8h4/GalsBedroom%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>The biggest change came on the weekend. Patti and I went and bought a full bedroom set for my son, and a new living room couch – so the huge space by the kitchen has a sitting area now. Not a table yet,. but at least we can sit. </p> <p>My son helped me all weekend setting up his new room that includes a queen bed, a dresser a chest and a night stand. This is a first time for him to own a brand new bedroom and he is so proud in his new kingdom that he never goes out… We have a daily meeting for dinner at the table…</p> <p>So slowly things are starting to fall into shape.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JoNvTMjifVk/Ti-m0k65ntI/AAAAAAAAGjk/gHHzTRrWJ60/s1600-h/IMAG0239%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Shabbat Dinner" border="0" alt="Shabbat Dinner" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_yb599b6w2I/Ti-m2GWYSeI/AAAAAAAAGjo/I-6fmSXZxq0/IMAG0239_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="257" height="203"></a>Patti does not feel good lately, and the Lupus causes her lots of pain headaches and on top of that she caught a cold. This never prevented Patti to skip work, and although she was actually sent home today from work to rest – she sat and worked from home. That is Patti. I try to let her rest as much as possible, but until this flare would pass, she will not be able to resume normal life. I hope that would come soon.</p> <p>Next week we are planning to get our belongings here (finally) and get the RV out of the shop (yeah – still in repair). Sometime this summer I hope to be able to go and get my boat from PA, but with the weather here in WA, it seem like the summer is 15 minutes long, all the rest is fall and winter… so I am not sure I will have enough time to enjoy the boat here.</p> <p>I still miss the RV life very much, and wish I could be hiking or camping somewhere. I can relate so much to Al and Kelly (<a href="http://thebayfieldbunch.com/" target="_blank">The Bayfield Bunch</a>) when Al explains can’t wait to go back to the RV trip for the winter. I am not even a snow bird now – just a city guy..</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-59112532899044671382011-07-19T12:41:00.000-05:002011-07-23T12:43:06.412-05:00Same Life New Chapter<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">The wait is over. We are back home, and when I say we – I mean my son and I. Yes it was a happy ending for both of us, even better than I anticipated. Now, that I am a full time husband and father again, I need to learn and adjust to this new great reality. If you followed our story – you got to read that one.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f87RoFTnI2M/TisHzF46zwI/AAAAAAAAGOM/Qrun3MLeFeE/s1600-h/IMAG0233%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Salt Lake City, UT from the air" border="0" height="460" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nTXIE_Nw5L0/TisHzqsDt8I/AAAAAAAAGOQ/kApdBxXqbrM/IMAG0233_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Salt Lake City, UT from the air" width="614" /></a><br />
<h2>
Last day of waiting</h2>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9g4wOZcMUHk/TisH0EGbzxI/AAAAAAAAGOU/6DZlbhue2c0/s1600-h/IMAG0209%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Food stand at OC Fair" border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNMhZOMZM-cNH_f8fcTot8HJYqh2A2DL0UORnTz451McSS2paxgQ6Bf6Pg7gfi7bAcoOU7IFJ_KrkOEQq40_jekqCXvkbuTB72E3G3JAelIXtDvRs0ydqpjEyAVN4y9q0ZPNj6xXAlesR/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Food stand at OC Fair" width="254" /></a>Sunday, June17th, 2011 –</span></strong> Still waiting. Tomorrow we need to go to an investigation at the court. This will have a great impact on the results of the hearing on Tuesday, and from there it could have a dramatic impact on both of our life. So the wait is not easy and we had to do something with the time. My attorney told me that there is a county fair close by, and that might be fun. As much as I hate crowds and since we had nothing else better to do – we decided we will give it a shot.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vK7mZ8O01U0/TisH018hmdI/AAAAAAAAGOc/rClNeMx6GYA/s1600-h/IMAG0211%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Smoking Wagon" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q-JNXIA8USc/TisH1cTHY-I/AAAAAAAAGOg/ClJ6he17Z1w/IMAG0211_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Smoking Wagon" width="254" /></a>Orange County, CA is one of the most crowded areas I know. City after city after city all the way to Los Angeles. From my observation in the past and at present – people here are very materialistic and either very rich or live way above their means. You never see so many luxury cars for example in any other place. I am talking Bentley, Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Cadillac, Infinity, Jaguars… They dress in nothing but brand names and act as is they own the world – you included. Granted, not all of them, but generally speaking – that is the feeling in SoCal. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VSZAnW3L8QI/TisH2Iyp5UI/AAAAAAAAGOk/ulgwWI6k3cc/s1600-h/IMAG0218%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Poop handler waiting for the next piece" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-n-P--o6FVgM/TisH2lCAsuI/AAAAAAAAGOo/MLUM74RI-Vw/IMAG0218_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Poop handler waiting for the next piece" width="257" /></a>Anyways – back to the fair – we got there around noon, parked our cheap rental car among all the luxury ones and stepped in. It was funny, as the theme was western, with a twist to adapt the local culture. For example – most of the eateries were Texas style this, or southern style that, and you could sit on hay bails that were meticulously cut square and it looks like they were dusted every 2- minutes. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsF_rTRq4u7doJCfQjIrKL-bCKsS8oHdihSguWl5oj3EszeZVMzqBlk0iq2BkvALH-6qFBujjcho_rDrdwV0BIyBZkfijuIRGyMsxx0QMjUDlEQmj37h_Hn-sek53Le-sSRXaPmp5requT/s1600-h/IMAG0231%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Snacks and Games - Kids heaven" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cyE0P5L8I4g/TisH3m1-SHI/AAAAAAAAGOw/ub5FcMFuXXY/IMAG0231_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Snacks and Games - Kids heaven" width="257" /></a>A plastic real life size horse and a cowboy gave you the feeling – hey bud, you are in the wild… It was interesting to watch the people around and compare it to other county fairs I have seen in the mid west, south and other more rural areas of our country. We took a cable car ride above the fair grounds to get a good view, and walked around the booths. We even played couple of those games were you need to shoot or throw a ring over a bottle and get a stuffed animal if you win. (And I did win one, and gave it to a little girl in the park)<br />
We returned to the room late afternoon, played for a while, and went to bed early. Tomorrow at 8:30 we need to be at the court.<br />
<h2>
The wheels of Justice</h2>
<h3>
Being Investigated</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Monday, June 18th, 2011 –</span></strong> Very important day today, but still we are not going to know anything until tomorrow. We woke up early, I took a fast shower and had a cup of coffee and we drove to the court. We were there by 8:00am. It was only 10 minutes drive, but with the morning traffic I did not want to take chances, better early than late.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9Clgdo86CxY/TisH4FmStBI/AAAAAAAAGO0/X9D5PTfYLjs/s1600-h/IMAG0225%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="My son on the canle car ride" border="0" height="257" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SXQEnDMmgIg/TisH4edXYwI/AAAAAAAAGO4/LN0TrtsvSjk/IMAG0225_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son on the canle car ride" width="203" /></a>I had to admit my son the the “children chamber” at the court while waiting to my investigation. I was the first one in the waiting room, waiting for my investigator to arrive. One by one all the people around me went in (they call your name) and I was again alone the last one. For whatever reason my investigator did not start until 9:30. Finally got in. My investigator was an older seasoned professor, and it look like she has seen it all. On a regular basis she deals with child abuse, and severe cases of neglect, so I am sure it was a mild case for her, at least on the surface. To protect my child privacy and other people involved, I can not get into the details of what was said, but what I can say is that after a short while she made a phone call to another professional involved in the case and her attitude turned 180 degrees. As of a sudden she became supportive and understood that what I was telling her was not only true, but also just the tip of the iceberg.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-l8U2uVaznG8/TisH4yuDsuI/AAAAAAAAGO8/W0l_-x9Bx7I/s1600-h/IMAG0230%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="I won! I won!" border="0" height="257" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5VtYQGeIQ0I/TisH5egRfLI/AAAAAAAAGPA/PAdQmK1ksiI/IMAG0230_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="I won! I won!" width="203" /></a>When I was done, I had to go and get my son from the children place. He sat with the investigator for a while as well. I waited outside, and in the meantime my ex-wife and my daughter arrived too. It was a tensed and uncomfortable situation but they tried to avoid me, and I did not resist. It is better this way, at least today. It was even more tensed when my son came out and we had to pass by them, not even saying a word. The brief eye contact was more than enough.<br />
From the court we drove directly to eat something. We stopped at a restaurant that looked interesting but it turned out to be a vegan restaurant. Never tried one before so I thought I will give it a shot. I ordered some Moroccan plate and my son ordered some veggie burger. After couple bites we looked at each other and I said – let’s go look for some real food… We left the plates almost untouched and stopped at a Greek restaurant. At least the food is real here!<br />
The rest of the day we relaxed and watched the lord of the rings movie on the computer at the hotel room. We tried to speculate what will happen tomorrow. I was exhausted as I could not sleep one minute last night, so I tried to stay awake until bedtime, so I will be able to get some rest. <br />
<h3>
The day that changed our life</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 –</span></strong> This is not a cliché. I mean maybe it is, but in this case – it is true. For my son – it is a huge change. It is a complete different parenting style, life style, food, weather, culture, friends, religion – you name it. Not only for my son it is a very big change. but for Patti and I – it is a huge change too. From being free to do whatever we want, back to parenting. That implies stability at least for the next 4 years. maybe more. It affects our lifestyle, our activities, our finances – so it is a big day today.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bSq6irCgeGQ/TisH6FiVVxI/AAAAAAAAGPE/Uyfe3lDbkrA/s1600-h/IMAG0226%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OC Fair from the cable Car" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yBgSMDSII4M/TisH7MMzO0I/AAAAAAAAGPI/JgZfvS1Thfw/IMAG0226_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OC Fair from the cable Car" width="257" /></a>OK – so again we woke up early. by 7:30am we were on the way to court and 15 minutes later we had coffee and fast breakfast in the court cafeteria. just after 8:00am we went to the waiting area by the court room, where I met my attorney – and at this time I would like to say that she is amazing! – young ambitious down to earth lawyer. I think did a great choice. If you ever need an attorney in the area – call Gilbert and Marlowe office in Santa Ana, and ask for Priya. She is the one!! Anyways – she briefed me on her plan for the hearing, got me the papers I needed in order to get my son admitted to the children chamber and after dropping m son at the children waiting area we stepped in. The court session did not start until 9:15am and the judge called the cases one by one. He started with those cases that are fast and after 20 minutes or so we were one of the last two cases left. The case before us was a couple with a case similar to ours. He is from AZ, she is from CA. They have a son that is in his teens who wants to stay with dad. They could not get into agreement and asked the court to decide for them. The judge made it clear that he does not like to take the child away from his friends, and the familiar environment he grew up in, and eventually ordered the couple to go to mediation in the court regarding visitation arrangements. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YTR3xMzgs5M/TisH70DWKfI/AAAAAAAAGPM/Yo6496UwAEg/s1600-h/IMAG0229%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="OC Fair" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Uwc0JEFAe7o/TisH8XL6FeI/AAAAAAAAGPQ/gknk6AjQbqc/IMAG0229_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OC Fair" width="257" /></a>This is the same judge that is going to deal with my case in 5 minutes. What if he won’t let my son go away from his familiar views of his childhood, the place he grew up? Will not want him to separate from his sister? I was very nervous at this point. And then they called our name.<br />
I could actually hear my heart. I stepped into the chair in front of the judge beside my lawyer. On the other side there was my ex wife without a lawyer (representing herself, or Pro Per as they call it here).<br />
The judge called the investigator to the witness stand, and started asking her questions. First he verified that this was an ‘Emergency investigation’, and ask the investigator to explain the difference. Emergency investigation, as the investigator explained, is a fast, single-day process that was designed to address immediate danger for the children. It should only recommend a safety plan until a full investigation is conducted. This is a bad start, I thought. That means that I will get only temporary orders, and the process will not end here. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-v_Bx3N9WkxI/TisH8ywFD9I/AAAAAAAAGPU/aeSsMLE9HIg/s1600-h/IMAG0223%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OC Fair" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gd4X20I7amQ/TisH-Ag00jI/AAAAAAAAGPY/5T9SQI5Or7Q/IMAG0223_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OC Fair" width="257" /></a>Then, the investigator continued. She said that based on her findings, and on the other expert findings – she recommends to have my son move in with me. Period. That is great, I thought, but will the court make a decision like that just based on this fast urgent investigation?<br />
Next, the judge let my ex wife speak. She started to tell the story of her life. She talked about her marriage with me and all that happened since our divorce in the last 10 years.She lied in her story some very bold and bad lies. She said for example that I was physically abusive – I never raised a hand on a any person in my whole life! I see an ant and I step aside not to kill it. nonsense! Anyways – after maybe 45 minutes, my attorney finally said – objection your honor, this is too way back and irrelevant. It seemed like the judge was just waiting for that, as if she has released him from a bad dream. Sustained, he immediately replied. My ex tried to start another subject, but none was relevant. She wanted to show the court some pictures, but the judge glanced and said – these are family pictures – keep them in your album we have no interest in those pictures here. That was the end of her story. <br />
The judge was ready to tell us his decision, so my attorney just asked me some questions about the house in Washington and the school, and after couple minutes we all looked at the judge waiting to hear his decision.<br />
“Although I usually do not like to separate families” he started… that was enough for me. YAY I thought – I got my son!! <br />
The bottom line is – it is not temporary – it is final! my son moves in with me! and a new chapter of life begun!<br />
<h2>
Coming back home</h2>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cWylPT-Z9Ek/TisH-sCyREI/AAAAAAAAGPc/_vruyW_ZE5A/s1600-h/IMAG0236%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="UT from airplane window" border="0" height="257" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vbab-nEHGA8/TisH-3vXyPI/AAAAAAAAGPg/JdwbmGEqFMM/IMAG0236_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="UT from airplane window" width="203" /></a>I called Patti and told her about the decision, it was around noon when I called, and 20 minutes later we had two airline tickets for 6:00pm tonight. Patti is amazing with her ability to help – just took the hassle out from me, and I really needed that help.<br />
I told my son to call his mother and tell her he will come over to say proper good byes to her and his sister. She wouldn’t answer the phone. We tried several tines with no luck, Can’t blame her – she is going through hard time right now, I am sure, but I would not want my son to stop his relations with his mom and sister, now that he is with me.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GRhrGIWE89Y/TisH_X5BtBI/AAAAAAAAGPk/yO1RRBkIwAE/s1600-h/IMAG0235%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Excited going home" border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElPQ93TCme7UrWjGUUL0GxPpo28Z7ifRvZD2skH06VkgsiE2D1J6xlkgMM7n4muBy_ycu-kl0o8Y0hVMriXsmxTthFnLIGAjYH6kUFb8lU8LltAfOf1s6VyXKLzTjmUQ5SjbwmYzuQjbg/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Excited going home" width="203" /></a>We decided to drive by the house, and if they are not there – go grab a bite and try again. They were there. My son jumped in and stayed in his mom’s house for a while (it’s not his house anymore…) and stepped out with his sister She decided to say good bye to me. I was happy, since I didn’t think she will talk to me for a while.We have our differences, we agreed, but we will try to work them out. I promised her to bring her over sometime this summer.<br />
From there we went to Chili’s and ate some nice dinner. This restaurant was the very first restaurant we went together earlier this year when I got to CA. Closing circles…<br />
Drove to the airport, returned the car and waited for our flight. Excited, looking forward to a brighter future together. We had a layover in Salt Lake City, and finally landed at 11:30pm in Seattle. Took the shuttle to the closest stop from home where Patti was already waiting for us and took us home. Patti baked a special welcome cake for my son – in his favorite lemon flavor. That was real nice of her, and it touched my son, I could see how happy he was when he saw that. A cake just for him!<br />
His room is still empty, except for an air mattress Patti bought yesterday, but it is clean and it is his own room. After a long 10 days of waiting, and after a long day that started in court, my son is finally home, in his own bedroom, starting a new chapter in his life.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-89045058278916348952011-07-17T01:14:00.001-05:002011-07-17T01:19:53.777-05:00A Week in a Room<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">It is almost over by now, but it wasn’t easy, and still is not. Last W/E before the court hearing next week, and a lot of stress and tense are building up. Also, being a whole week in an empty hotel room was not adding to the fun. Another break in life on the way to some new ‘Normal’ life.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-i07uU3p8Lro/TiJZz71vA_I/AAAAAAAAGNg/UcJgf2cR0zM/s1600-h/IMAG0193%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Our Hotel" border="0" height="361" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7g_ZQCYnZug/TiJZ6cE4kkI/AAAAAAAAGNk/VJ26ulgCPA0/IMAG0193_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Our Hotel" width="603" /></a></span><br />
<h3>
A Week a Room and a Kid</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oX2GIxLByqo/TiJaCSma5dI/AAAAAAAAGNo/osh52sQ1Y3E/s1600-h/IMAG0194%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Our Hotel" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-c20G5jTpN2M/TiJaLuFm7sI/AAAAAAAAGNs/GbqAqL4afhg/IMAG0194_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Our Hotel" width="167" /></a>Saturday, July16th, 2011 –</span></strong> I think what saved me is the work that picked up a little, otherwise I would have gone completely crazy. Just being in one room for so long is not an easy task. Our new routine is this: My son plays all night on the computer. I wake up at around 8:00am and making coffee, as my son is falling asleep.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghPjKKsvHI0grKJSt_jMtWjhGbqw8uyl9F7ft0yVQbwYHPoSGUbIMCzrKSp6MAaQW3yO-qk0_o5mB_05G-Iaii9Ja9pM0-pXn0lTn3unuF7U0OycWtkfXz9BUwlt88sE8rE3S03I3NpWDB/s1600-h/IMAG0202%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Our Hotel" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7MG2DNIWoPg/TiJaU1U1RII/AAAAAAAAGN0/yNQ4rUBTyNo/IMAG0202_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Our Hotel" width="167" /></a>I stay on that chair and work until 3:00pm or so, fighting with the bad Internet, and with all the tasks I have to do. At about 3:00pm I am getting hungry, and my sons wakes up. We then go to eat something, trying to pick a different type of food every day. After dinner, we would go back to the room, talk or listen to music a little, until I will go to bed and my son will start his nightly day.<br />
Not much fun, huh? but not too much choice either. Can’t go out of the state of CA. Just waiting for the big news on Tuesday, hope that this will be the happy ending I am waiting for. <br />
So this is just a short update while we are waiting… All the pictures are taken here in the hotel using the phone camera.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com3Unknown location.33.708595162969694 -117.8497490286827133.708388662969696 -117.85005752868271 33.708801662969691 -117.84944052868271tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-24820599068124244992011-07-11T14:09:00.005-05:002011-07-11T15:32:48.374-05:00Little Wins and Bigger Hopes<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Guess what? In CA again. You don’t believe me? Well – I am not kidding I am back there, weather you believe it or not. So what am I doing back in SoCal after finally getting out of there just couple weeks ago? For that you will have to read on.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oYe3bofkhmk/ThtKa9a5oGI/AAAAAAAAGMg/6zBxLy9Pq-o/s1600-h/IMAG0169%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Friday dinner at home" border="0" height="354" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NUsvd9ow3m4/ThtKb0VZGkI/AAAAAAAAGMo/efSBAOdD3I8/IMAG0169_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Friday dinner at home" width="592" /></a></span><br />
<h3>
Hints are coming</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Thursday, July 7th, 2011 – </span></strong>It started as a ‘Normal’ day. Normal, I think, refers to the routine of the last 3 days, otherwise there is nothing normal in my life, at least not recently. Patti got up and went to work, I woke up a little later this morning, starting my coffee and email check in my new office.<br />
Then I saw an email from my lawyer. I was waiting for some updates – and here it came. For obvious reasons I avoided writing on this subject in the last couple posts, but now – I can tell. Remember how I left CA without my son. It was a sad day for both of us, as I knew how much he wanted to be with me, and how much better could it be had he stayed with me. I promised him to do all that I can to change it, and have him come and live with me. <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n3q8FTy1W0o/ThtKc9WAXDI/AAAAAAAAGMs/ZzZ90Cthvlk/s1600-h/IMAG0170%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="IMAG0170" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SRmtCCbzTPA/ThtKdvNRZqI/AAAAAAAAGMw/D8s_SCSOv9w/IMAG0170_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG0170" width="167" /></a>And so I did. In my last day in CA I went to talk to couple family attorneys about this case, and the first day after I came back to WA, I hired the services of one of the attorneys I talked to. A young lawyer who looks like she has experience, and sincerely wanted to help in the matter. I trust her to do the best she can not only for the money but also because she believed it would be the best for my son. I made it clear that I have no intentions to hurt anyone, and I am not out for revenge. Also, it was important for me to emphasize that I want to help my son come and live me because this is *what he really wants*, and not because I want it (although I do want it very much).<br />
So back to this morning – I received an email that states that all the attempts to settle with my ex-wife peacefully have failed (yeah, we tried once more to send a letter), and she is going to approach the court, but would like to know how fast can I get to CA if the court granted me temporary custody. I immediately replied and wrote – I will be there the next day! The decision of the court is scheduled for tomorrow.<br />
<h3>
So here it comes</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Friday, July 8th, 2011 – </span></strong>I was nervous all day today, curious to know what would be the decision of the court. Patti and I already talked about it and decided that if my son comes over, he will go with me to get our belongings from MN by the end of this week.<br />
Around noon, I got the much expected phone call. It was the attorney’s assistant. She told me that the court has decided to give me custody until the hearing on the 19th, but I can’t get my son out of the state of CA. Ouch… <br />
I was extremely happy about the decision. Although it is only a temporary decision, I believe it shows the intentions of the court, and based on what I presented, the court takes this situation very seriously. Now I need to stay in CA for 10 days, No RV and no other place to stay – that means I need to rent a car and hotel room, and SoCal is not cheap especially not in the summer, when all the kids are going to Disneyland, Legoland, San Diego Zoo, Sea world, Knot’s Berry farms, Six Flags, Universal Studios – it is all around here.<br />
<h2>
Changing Plans</h2>
I called Patti and let her know about the news. She was extremely supportive and helped me plan and change all the travel arrangements. We had to cancel the flight to MN, cancel the move of our storage unit, find a flight a car and a hotel in SoCal, all in a one day notice.<br />
I know how hard it was for Patti being by herself waiting for me to come over, and now I need to go again, but I appreciate her help and understanding. <br />
When Patti came back home all the plans were already done. Part of it Patti did from work, and part I did from home. I am flying tomorrow at 7:20am from Seattle, so I have a shuttle picking me up at 4:15am from Everett – about 20 miles away from home. That is going to be a long day tomorrow. <br />
With the short time we had, Patti has cooked for us a nice Friday dinner, she lighted the candles we blessed the Shabbat, the Challah and the wine, and ate a delicious fish over spinach and rice with a soft fresh Challah bread that Patti baked yesterday. Patti also helped me pack for the next 10 days (do you see the pattern? I don’t know what would I have done without her). We went to bed early as we have to get up tomorrow by 3:30am, facing yet another waiting period.<br />
<h3>
The trip south</h3>
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Saturday, July 9th, 2011 –</span></strong> Could hardly sleep tonight. Well for obvious reasons. <br />
Patti woke up with me and after fast coffee we drove to the pickup location of the shuttle. We waited in the car about 5 minutes or so and the shuttle came. That’s it – I am on the way to get my son. I am going to spend with him at least for the next 10 days. Hopefully for the next 4 years…<br />
I was exhausted. Half asleep I managed to find the gate and waited for my flight. I believe I slept most of the way to Salt Lake city, where I had to switch planes. From there it was already after 10:00am and the short flight went pretty fast (90 minutes or so).<br />
After we landed in Orange County, I went to pick up the car. I had a car reservation at Thrifty, so I went to their service desk and handed the girl my Driver License and a Credit Card. After punching some numbers she told me – “Sorry I can’t give you car”. “And why not?” I asked. She said – “Whenever we receive a debit card the system preforms a credit check, and it came back as declined”. What the… I was thinking. No way! My credit is not bad, and I have enough money in the bank… “I will give you a credit card instead” I said. “Can’t” the girl said and turned the monitor towards me. It had a message – Do not rent. Hand a Credit denial Card. <br />
Nothing I could do at this point. It wouldn’t matter even if I pulled a credit report and showed her a score of 800. I am dealing with a computer, and there is nothing I can do. I turned to the next desk – National Alamo, and in 10 minutes I had a car. Just an embracement! If you ever need to rent a car – think twice before you choose Thrifty, and do not give them a debit card.<br />
<h2>
Finding the lost son</h2>
When I landed in Orange County I turned on my phone and a text message from my son was waiting for me “Where are you? Mom is forcing me to go to church”. I replied – “Just landed. on the way to pick you up”. That was the last I heard from him this morning.<br />
Drove down south to his mom’s home, and as expected – there was no one there. Just across the street from the house there was this camera shop where I dropped my camera for repair couple months ago, and just yesterday I got a phone call that it is ready, so I swung by and picked up my camera. I got my D700 back! I don’t have any lens or battery to use it, but at least I got the body.<br />
I called Patti, consulting with her what should be my next step, and decided that I will look for my son in one of the churches they use to go, and if not there, I will just wait by the house until they come.<br />
My first bet was a church in Irvine, about 15 miles north (very close to the airport). I turned around and drove back north. Took me a little while to find the church, but when I drove through the parking lot I spotted the mother’s minivan parked at a far corner. Bingo!<br />
I found my son and my daughter with their mom standing outside the church talking to someone. The mother noticed me approaching and I don’t think she was too happy. She knew nothing good is going to come out of it.<br />
I parked close to the place they were standing and got out of the car. “Hi” I said politely. “I came to pick up our son”. “And what make you think you could do that?” She asked… “I have a court order”. This is when the color disappeared from her face. I don’t think she expected that. “What court, I was never invited, you didn’t tell me, let me see” she mumbled.<br />
I knew she is in shock and going through hard time. I did not want to make it hard on anyone, just wanted to take my son and go. My hope is that she will realize that it will raise a red flag for her, and make her wonder what if the court will have to decide, as she might lose not only custody but much more, so maybe she will agree to sign the offer letter I sent her and fax it to the lawyer. That would put an immediate end to all this roller coaster, it would be the cheapest easiest way to put things in order, with minimum aggravation cost and anxiety. But chances are slim.<br />
I showed her the court order and stepped back to the car, allowing her some privacy to say proper good bye. It took a while for her and my daughter to digest the fact that I am taking my son without their consent, and after a long while (probably 20-30 minutes) finally my son joined me in the car. It was not easy on him at all, seeing his mom crying and not wanting to let him go, but he assured me that as hard as it is, this is what he wants and he knows that this is the best thing for him. We had a fast stop at his mom’s house, picking up his stuff and from there we drove to the hotel, starting the waiting period. We grabbed a fast meal from a fast food joint across the street and went to bed. After all it has been a long and rough day.<br />
<h3>
The first day</h3>
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ymdPbVkkkfY/ThtKfZfa1cI/AAAAAAAAGM0/cU9sIsNGeQk/s1600-h/IMAG0171%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Doing Laundry" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R3umiQu3KP0/ThtKgeM1KqI/AAAAAAAAGM4/XUNQMjBCTk8/IMAG0171_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Doing Laundry" width="254" /></a>Sunday, July 10th, 2011 –</strong></span> The hotel is not a fancy one, so there are very limited amenities provided. We stopped at Target and got some snacks and a cheap coffee maker. we continued to a Laundromat to wash my son’s clothes, and grabbed a fast bite from a Chinese restaurant close by. By the time we were back it was already 4:00pm or so, and we tried to pass the time by getting the room organized, watching some video clips and talking about all that is happening.<br />
It is going to be tough keeping ourselves entertained in a small room in a hotel. I have to work, and not much for my son to do. He is trying to keep himself busy learning programming, and watching movies, but I am sure we will manage somehow. One week to go. Day one.<br />
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong>Monday, July 11th, 2011 – </strong></span>The day just started, and I am between work and emails sitting in this hotel room and trying to pass the time. I feel bad as Patti is alone at home, and my son is bored stuck here in the room with me, but we do have big hopes that this is not for nothing, and that the cause will justify all that we are going through. So with small victory and big hope we are looking forward. Hoping for the best.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2Unknown location.33.681782491780027 -117.8623580932617233.655355491780028 -117.90184009326173 33.708209491780025 -117.82287609326171tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-35309302504395360652011-07-06T00:06:00.002-05:002011-07-16T22:19:05.979-05:00City Hikers<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">the family, grilling on the fire and they feel as if they are in the wild middle of nowhere? Or when a fancy passenger car is stopping by a trailhead, and you see the office guy with his wife taking a half mile trail with a gear that is enough for 10 day backpacking, and a survival kit for the jungles of south America? This W/E it was us. We were the city hikers…</span><br />
<a name='more'></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-b7QZNfsvVWI/ThPtWhxTHsI/AAAAAAAAGKo/k2tvpslhWdM/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520081%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="NorthCascadeNP 081" border="0" height="405" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JBZz4ccHPZI/ThPtXAvl1jI/AAAAAAAAGKs/DLsVRcC3RlE/NorthCascadeNP%252520081_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 081" width="608" /></a><br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Sunday, July 3rd, 2011 –</span></strong> As expected and forecasted, the day started cloudy, Still skeptic about tomorrow, but they still insist it’s going to be nice. Patti feels better today and the headache is fading away. Patti felt so much better that she wanted to sit down and work., bit she did not have a place to sit, and opened her laptop in the kitchen table. This is not right, I thought – we need to get you a desk too. Maybe a little smaller – but still a place to sit.<br />
Going on Office Depot website, we found that the desk from the same theme, one notch down is actually on sale, and could be picked up in a store. For $170 that is a bargain! We bought it online, and drove to pick it up.<br />
Patti was excited, and actually built most of the desk by herself! Within couple of hours we had a double desk office , and could work together. That was fast: Plan, buy, pick, build, work.<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 600px;"> <tbody>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5A0sHCgoRMk/ThPtX4nMHsI/AAAAAAAAGKw/VACc0UsZRaA/s1600-h/WA_House%252520007%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 007" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j9xbdpI_9GQ/ThPtYx38RCI/AAAAAAAAGK0/iksq1Vms4Bc/WA_House%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 007" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n_4mP1RLgsg/ThPtZoLOVPI/AAAAAAAAGK4/ArJttuNBojw/s1600-h/WA_House%252520009%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 009" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bJsdhUM5YjU/ThPtaH1xBAI/AAAAAAAAGK8/NXSS8sYk3Qk/WA_House%252520009_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 009" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5ZBOmtzJlwc/ThPta3Ia6FI/AAAAAAAAGLA/0PbGUJHEcKI/s1600-h/WA_House%252520010%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 010" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-txPbssuC5qM/ThPtbdZty2I/AAAAAAAAGLE/a-v0vHHsCtA/WA_House%252520010_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 010" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Looking forward for tomorrow – get out to nature again!<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: red; color: white;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-y-T9sLCsCK4/ThPtcVHMEGI/AAAAAAAAGLI/FSictoq3a9Q/s1600-h/ThunderKnobTrail%252520199%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="ThunderKnobTrail 199" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NKryPkYihM8/ThPtdBdevsI/AAAAAAAAGLM/oofGEM3RlVQ/ThunderKnobTrail%252520199_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="ThunderKnobTrail 199" width="183" /></a>4th</span><span style="background-color: blue; color: white;"> of</span><span style="background-color: red; color: white;"> July</span><span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: blue;">,</span><span style="background-color: blue;"> 2011</span></span></span></strong><span style="color: white;"> </span>– Yes, today is the day. The independence day of our country. 235 years old! <br />
We had a slow and late start this morning, but the weather was promising. They say that they did not have a sunny 4th of July in this state for centuries, so it must be an experience of a lifetime.<br />
After a small search around us, we decided on the North Cascade National Park, North East of us, about 80 miles away, and about 2 hours drive.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1OnaaqvMxzA/ThPtd7Db9CI/AAAAAAAAGLQ/d0weBHdIiTc/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520118%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="NorthCascadeNP 118" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_04Kyi920bQ/ThPtem2UvtI/AAAAAAAAGLU/HxlF1phHYqo/NorthCascadeNP%252520118_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 118" width="183" /></a>We did not take anything! All of our hiking gear is in the RV anyways, and my new camera is still in repair, but we are going. <br />
Once out of Everett, and off the highway the land looked more like what we know and like – small farms and country living in its glory. I miss that. When driving in a car, you don’t even notice too much the high grade uphill or downhill roads, you just drive in the comfort of the A/C and the sound of the stereo (Still – the highway on Sirius XM)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IRqXeYZl9H4/ThPthldg4qI/AAAAAAAAGLY/wTG8VC9bq68/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520060%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="NorthCascadeNP 060" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-o3pyHF1mTas/ThPtiKQUVBI/AAAAAAAAGLc/kwdwBgmkKzQ/NorthCascadeNP%252520060_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 060" width="256" /></a>We stopped at the visitor center and chose a nice trail recommended but the ranger. Most of the park is still under 10 feet of snow, she said. It will be open only in August, so we have a good reason to come back. Before we got to the trail we stopped at some nice view points and took some nice pictures of the breathtaking views. The trail itself was around 3 miles long, climbing 450 feet to a view point above diablo lake. this is one of the shortest and easiest trails in the park, which offers over 400 miles of hiking trails. The first part was very thick rainforest trees and brush, letting very few sun rays go through the branches, and provide some kind of a mystic atmosphere. After a certain height, the thickness clears up, and the sky is visible, and today – a blue sky and a warm sun with all it glory.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4228YFtxEsJneri6QCmS50N_uvRm9siCzmepWN6Kqg2rw0iD8LsD7_epr1nRRjg7i71X90pnX6amKUkwArzZF4L3O6yFruoirtfoknvN_v9fJ5aWgffEGPQoopFyHThmlUc5STXrxuS2G/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP_stitch5%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="NorthCascadeNP_stitch5" border="0" height="220" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oApTmyWBtg0/ThPtj2agOEI/AAAAAAAAGLk/QzqvbjhfJXY/NorthCascadeNP_stitch5_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP_stitch5" width="607" /></a><br />
<h3>
Independence or War</h3>
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Zybq3fWxy0Y/ThPtkgrwXwI/AAAAAAAAGLo/nicECOEcIXg/s1600-h/NorthCascadeNP%252520061%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="NorthCascadeNP 061" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9urKVIKR7PoDXgJm8XcmTuIyxZDJjOROpMR01YN9fDFBAdQPNxZMZ0eoIk0FD2y2tM077xsCScdoJ10j2cUl2v3ChLDPxwQ3srItzyidLJ1YwWpOaB1s61zDsqe-njOz8AWxTmmFOQNS/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="NorthCascadeNP 061" width="183" /></a>When we cam back home, it was already around 9:00pm although still light outside. I think it doesn’t get dark here until 10:30pm or so.<br />
After a shower we went to bed but something was not right. We heard the sound of war all around us, Heavy artillery, guns, tanks sound and a strong smell of gun powder, but there was no siren and the radio seem to ignore the street fights, as if everything is OK.<br />
The enemy stood strong against our forces, as even close to midnight the sound of the rockets and canons was still loud. Only after midnight the enemy retreated, as the sounds started to go further away. We won, I thought, we won again! the US is independent yet once again! that was a close call, and a very rough night.<br />
Here are some more pictures from the hike:<br />
<embed flashvars="host=picasaweb.google.com&captions=1&hl=en_US&feat=flashalbum&RGB=0x000000&feed=http%3A%2F%2Fpicasaweb.google.com%2Fdata%2Ffeed%2Fapi%2Fuser%2Fmottych%2Falbumid%2F5625929727275616593%3Fkind%3Dphoto%26alt%3Drss" height="400" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" src="https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/bin/slideshow.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="600"></embed> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Ross Lake National Recreation Area, East Whatcom, WA, USA48.690279602405816 -121.0977276153167848.477828602405815 -121.31734011531678 48.902730602405818 -120.87811511531679tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-41120421687458145122011-07-02T13:47:00.001-05:002011-07-02T15:06:00.110-05:00Adjusting to gray<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Closing 2 weeks in my new home. The RV is still in the shop, didn’t even get the estimate done. The house is still empty, and the sky are still gray. once a week the sun peeps out and this is a state holiday in WA. The main moves are behind, now we just need to get my son home, and the belongings from around the country</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SUcRcEBAltQ/Tg9p_6h9sKI/AAAAAAAAF6M/6M7QwaMvUeg/s1600-h/WA_House%252520012%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 012" border="0" height="391" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FrM41Kz2cPY/Tg9qAYBBgaI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/USEmwZMGyjs/WA_House%252520012_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 012" width="587" /></a><br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EXB_so46GNc/Tg9qBBDM-LI/AAAAAAAAF6U/mYC2JdyAspU/s1600-h/WA_House%252520005%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="WA_House 005" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M5bvc6RnflI/Tg9qBdqaJeI/AAAAAAAAF6Y/jlFG_9RXahU/WA_House%252520005_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 005" width="183" /></a>Saturday, July 2nd, 2011 –</span></strong> So a whole week is gone in the new house, but not much happened. The days are dragging by, staying by myself most of the day. Work is picking up a little, and that helps passing the time. <br />
My typical day starts at about 8:00am. Sometimes I will wake up a little earlier and sit with Patti to have a morning coffee before she is running out to work. Then I am by myself for the next 8 hours or so. I will cleanup the kitchen, make some fresh coffee, take care of Diva and sit down to work.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hmero-Hygq4/Tg9qCOO3ucI/AAAAAAAAF6c/Ls-HNH0CgI4/s1600-h/WA_House%252520009%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="WA_House 009" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJrhjGuDtYVAI8V0OZHG2jjo-288sT1Ia5kkP_V5LcC-hSxV3Dt1W7fcADQV9f2C0JYXzQIg8ZHM5sIXa34gPytU-upnCXuFmyBUW0JZYD055kz-ygAADrMXPmoE-a03GvLiXBzDJDBRi/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 009" width="183" /></a>Patti comes home at around 5:00pm and usually starts dinner. Not the she has to, but she loves cooking and does not want to give it up. By 6:30pm we sit down to eat, and by the time we are done we have couple hours or so before it is bed time again. Patti would usually watch cooking shows on TV, or relax from her busy day. I might catch up with customers that just wake up in their part of the world, or just sit with Patti watch her watching TV.<br />
The house is still empty and I think we will get the furniture only by the end of next week. In the meantime we are using an air mattress for sleeping, and couple plates to eat. That is enough to get by.<br />
The move is going to be very expensive. Much more than I expected, and much more than what Patti’s company is willing to reimburse. I believe that by the time we will get all our belongings here, we will scratch the $10K in moving expenses.<br />
<h3>I have got an office</h3><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-boeh2yPPyGU/Tg9qDGDmugI/AAAAAAAAF6k/qfd_srRCOE4/s1600-h/WA_House%252520001%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="WA_House 001" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WMDL5awQgmM/Tg9qDScQJ-I/AAAAAAAAF6o/8ooz4vqDoC8/WA_House%252520001_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 001" width="183" /></a>The only rooms in the house that are equipped to be used are the master bedroom (well, air mattress) the kitchen (the appliances were there before), the dining room (an old table they left behind, with a table cloth and two folding chairs). That’s it. The rest is empty. <br />
Up until Tuesday, the only sitting place was the dining room table. Eat, work, have coffee, everything. Last weekend we bought a new desk at Office Depot, so on Wednesday it finally arrived. <br />
It took me good 5 hours to assemble the desk and the hutch, but now I have another room I can work in. Actually I am spending most of my day in this room. Because the sky are almost always cloudy, the room is usually dark to the point I need to use lamp in order to work, even in the mornings. I love natural light, so that’s a bummer, but I believe like everything else – I will get used to it too.<br />
So here is the story in pictures of building it up:<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 600px;"><tbody>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-PrHxSbhk4gs/Tg9qEJuhSbI/AAAAAAAAF6s/UbRTIP4uRzM/s1600-h/WA_House%252520001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 001" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_9Eds6WdyDw/Tg9qEqct8mI/AAAAAAAAF6w/u19BOwXhQz4/WA_House%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 001" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tUUYxVOzIAY/Tg9qFH8oqEI/AAAAAAAAF60/T3fmfLU3cT0/s1600-h/WA_House%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 003" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mR0fScrrgLg/Tg9qFvgZ29I/AAAAAAAAF64/EQdGpid9INw/WA_House%252520003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 003" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qSUJx3TJY24/Tg9qGRSzm-I/AAAAAAAAF68/f0VuGSfJLYM/s1600-h/WA_House%252520006%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 006" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-46PFjV8bE5Y/Tg9qGtUrj6I/AAAAAAAAF7A/HNT4YSCXkf8/WA_House%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 006" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_yooVjFzEoo/Tg9qOsjGChI/AAAAAAAAF7E/rkV_r0V803Y/s1600-h/WA_House%252520007%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 007" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-apaC5Dzv6GE/Tg9qPF2HCTI/AAAAAAAAF7I/hxDiPSB26wQ/WA_House%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 007" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--A-Dv26E8EA/Tg9qP0Tp0dI/AAAAAAAAF7M/2j7D2HO5n3g/s1600-h/WA_House%252520010%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 010" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lwYNd0-yauM/Tg9qQX9JaGI/AAAAAAAAF7Q/fJAIePLU1Qw/WA_House%252520010_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 010" width="202" /></a></td> <td valign="top" width="200"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TN3XwYAxPDw/Tg9qRZoXckI/AAAAAAAAF7U/Tk637al9zJk/s1600-h/WA_House%252520011%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 011" border="0" height="135" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U5Tf6vs6JMQ/Tg9qR3gqcwI/AAAAAAAAF7Y/zzfAMx-xc8s/WA_House%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 011" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9d1NMyDJgrs/Tg9qSW3dqLI/AAAAAAAAF7c/BcRpuoD3_7o/s1600-h/WA_House%252520001%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img alt="WA_House 001" border="0" height="401" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bp443UMc4W4/Tg9qS6TLqhI/AAAAAAAAF7g/eoMsYhHeUwM/WA_House%252520001_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 001" width="602" /></a><br />
<h3>4th of July Weekend</h3><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CeJMy-OMPf8/Tg9qTmAWE9I/AAAAAAAAF7k/EYH6Qeaa_-4/s1600-h/WA_House%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="WA_House 004" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_yVhg4W3bDY/Tg9qUHCeW8I/AAAAAAAAF7o/xZ6GSwjmwoI/WA_House%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 004" width="183" /></a>Actually the weekend did not start right. Patti went to work on Friday with a migraine, and did not feel good at all. She did not sleep well through the night either, and today (Saturday) she is still fighting a headache. The ironic thing is that this two days are blessed with the rare occurrence of clear skies without a cloud and a perfect weather.<br />
Having such a short summer in this area (summer is characterized with clear sunny warm days in my dictionary) and so many beautiful parks and attractions to see, I was hoping to go somewhere together. Tomorrow supposed to be rainy again, and Monday.. well – that is too far in advance for them to predict. They say sunny, but who knows. I will cross my toes.<br />
<h2>What’s next?</h2><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GJFKd1xLbpc/Tg9qUxidgVI/AAAAAAAAF7s/McOKUDVKms0/s1600-h/WA_House%252520005%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="WA_House 005" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NrJU33tZQBg/Tg9qVpjuzaI/AAAAAAAAF7w/GVhmqGag-JE/WA_House%252520005_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="WA_House 005" width="183" /></a>I am planning to fly to MN by mid July to supervise the loading of the truck. That will make it a little easier to live, I suppose, can’t even remember what I got out there.<br />
With my son – as you know, the attempts to resolve the issue in a good way have failed. I did not give up, and still trying to do the right thing. Hope to be able to report some happy results soon.<br />
The RV is still in the shop. The damage was bigger than I imagined, and they need to tear it apart just to give an estimate. I did not hear from them yet. Hope for good news. I miss my RV, the freedom the hikes … withdrawal symptoms…Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1North Creek, WA, USA47.827351707839554 -122.2302156806364347.790879707839551 -122.29179968063643 47.863823707839558 -122.16863168063644tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-11014179726618777352011-06-26T12:53:00.001-05:002011-06-26T15:25:59.967-05:00Blown up trip<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Believe it or not – that’s it. I am in WA. Very happy to reunite with Patti, but I drove here by myself, without my son. This is not going to be an easy summer, but I hope at the end of it my son will get what he wants and will be able to finally move in with me. Oh, and guess what? – It’s raining since I got here… Welcome to WA</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-C_t6gJDhTGc/TgeUxqRlHeI/AAAAAAAAF3c/3n7qxBJYnqw/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520014%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Our new home " border="0" height="395" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BAv2m3DQMF4/TgeUzP_kS3I/AAAAAAAAF3g/9Y35i-_GpUE/WA_Home%252520014_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Our new home " width="593" /></a><br />
<h3>Driving Alone</h3><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V7AdCLNhGwY/TgeUzf7Ed_I/AAAAAAAAF3k/XgM15P6z30s/s1600-h/IMAG0141%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="My son and his friend starting the fire" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bydOsmW6DUw/TgeU0B9AAYI/AAAAAAAAF3o/QTr90oyq1Is/IMAG0141_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son and his friend starting the fire" width="167" /></a>Monday, June 20th, 2011 –</strong></span> On Friday, with all the running around today, I did not have much time to prepare for Shabbat dinner. I did not want to eat just a frozen meal either. so a Mexican Taco dinner was a great solution – Ground beef with taco seasoning, some vegetables, sour cream and cheese – that’s all it takes. As you will soon realize, my ex insisted on Gal coming back to her house after school on Monday, so I believe that is going to be the end of my stay with my son for the summer. A short meeting with her on Saturday assured me that this avenue, of trying to get her to agree and let my son move in with me, is a dead end. She will not let my son go, at least not willingly.<br />
Knowing this is the last weekend was sad, just like a dark cloud hanging over me. It is also Father’s day W/E, and I was not sure what to do. A friend of my son came over as well as my daughter, to stay for the day, but I wasn’t in the best mood at all. We grilled a little (I ruined almost all the meat), and I had to drop my daughter back home (she had to study, so she said) and took my son and his friend to the movies. I think It’s called super-8 or something like that. While trying to keep a smile on my face I did not have much patience, and I was very tensed the whole time.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H3Txok4NWgE/TgeU0gAdKAI/AAAAAAAAF3s/dkjfewbNvtw/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520007%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Front Yard View" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IJ8a38EHros/TgeU04ecDXI/AAAAAAAAF3w/f-0P9XSKW_c/WA_Home%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Front Yard View" width="256" /></a>I dropped my son at school on Monday morning, knowing I am not going to pick him up that night. From text messages he sent later that day I understood he is not so happy about the new situation.<br />
Night was quiet. No one with me tonight. it has been a while since I was just by myself in the RV, I am not even sure it ever happened before. Thinking to myself I realized that sitting around in the campground by myself is not going to do any good, especially knowing that my son is not coming up north with me, so I decided to start my trip North the next day.<br />
<h3>The Journey North</h3><strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Qef2IDcZ1cU/TgeU1BGJf5I/AAAAAAAAF30/5dDMlLX2jH4/s1600-h/IMAG0154%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="I-5 at dawn" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XdIp6iMAVdo/TgeU1kOSroI/AAAAAAAAF38/Q60r0Pgz-L4/IMAG0154_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="I-5 at dawn" width="254" /></a>Tuesday, June 21st, 2011 –</span></strong> Some last minute errands and by 10:00am I was already on my way. The trip is 1,230 miles, and I will try to do I in 3 days. That means at least 400 miles a day. When I took the ramp on to the I-5 my Google navigator computerized voice announced – “Stay on I-5 for one thousand two hundred miles”. That was when I turned it off. I will turn it on again when I am ready to exit, near home in WA. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ahtMHu3FGG4/TgeU1-feqYI/AAAAAAAAF4A/q1p_I3UWz3A/s1600-h/CA2WA%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="First Tire Blow up" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-N1VmFMVDg6g/TgeU2IKoBTI/AAAAAAAAF4E/LdyI5VH9NKY/CA2WA%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="First Tire Blow up" width="256" /></a>I passed L.A., drove through the mountain region north of it, and started the big flat ride through the desert. It was very hot outside, over 100 F, and the road was steaming! Signs of tire services where almost every mile alongside the road with pieces of black rubber all around. I think it was around 3:00pm when I heard that loud noise and glanced on the driver side mirror to see a big piece of metal sticking out of the RV. I stopped at the side of the road and sure enough – a tire blew off. I was just a mile before the exit, so I drove slowly to the Lost Hills, and stopped at a gas station. I was not surprised to find out that they had a tire shop right there.<br />
After about two hours and two hundred dollars I was on the road again, determined to complete my 400 mile quota for the day. It was about 11:30pm when I finally decided to pull to a rest area for the night, but it was completely full. The next one was 28 miles north (I think around exit 580) where I found a single spot to rest for the night.<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SzWKr5-FDOY/TgeU22uLUmI/AAAAAAAAF4I/A3g9pYvTUSY/s1600-h/goldhills%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="The gas station at Gold Hills" border="0" height="175" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ULYUMvM6YYc/TgeU3G73NYI/AAAAAAAAF4M/IWYJeZCChcI/goldhills_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The gas station at Gold Hills" width="255" /></a>Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 –</span></strong> The loud noise of the semi truck engines around me woke me up. I took Diva for a short walk and hit the road starting my second day. I was still down and unhappy about having to drive without my son, but tried to cheer myself up. I am going to be with Patti after so long, and that is a great deal – at least I will have a companion and support when I am down.<br />
The temperature was still high today, around 117, even though I was already in the southern Oregon. Around 3:00pm I heard that familiar big bang sound again. Oh no.. This is the second tire out of 4. That is not good. This time the nearest exit did not have anything. A tiny gas station that served the gold hills village, they didn’t even have Diesel.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EPoPsYkQsBQ/TgeU3e66CTI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/CZh9gnekCE8/s1600-h/IMAG0157%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Another Tire is gone." border="0" height="167" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hs6d8xa4EuM/TgeU39eCnQI/AAAAAAAAF4U/N1OEwg4Qbfo/IMAG0157_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Another Tire is gone." width="254" /></a>I called Les Schwab from the nearest town, and after 30 minutes they were there. The guy told me that I needed a stronger tire – a 14 thread, and what he brought was only a 10 thread. He also noticed that the tire they put yesterday was not the right one. This Mexican shop yesterday did not have any variety to choose from, so I had to make do with what they had.<br />
I drove on this temporary tire to the shop where they replaced all four tires while I went to lunch and fill gas. Another two hours and this time over a thousand dollars put me back on the road again. The truck itself did great pushing the RV over the hills and mountains of Northern CA, and Oregon. At times I had to drive as slow as 30 mph uphill, and 40 mph downhill but on the flat portion of the highway the truck could easily pull at 70mph, taking about 9 mpg.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dn13yHdLftU/TgeU4b6iclI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/FvMTqMromMk/s1600-h/CA2WA%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Corner in the Back Yard " border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6_KQEL_xhvJl2-gFu9kurKKCenk_gnzJsgGrHfX4ZZMUc3SORyrSxefbBDS5aOGNCW-PkUkKW55vAEXk0L_-ynFpxggUOiBzE56JAP4BZhhsqkbUHMidnK5MXx-yE-MwmIkARQrWOOPr/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Corner in the Back Yard " width="183" /></a>When I left Portland and entered the state of WA it was still light outside, that was when I turned on the GPS on my android again. I was less than 180 miles away, around 3 hours of drive, with one more stop to fill gas. Being so close, I decided to try and get home tonight. My estimate was that I will be home before midnight. Not too bad for 1,230 miles trip. Driving through Seattle was no fun. frequent lane changing, bridges and tunnels with heavy traffic of city drivers. 20 more miles and I am home. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Z2Ro41L6_OQ/TgeU47PSMxI/AAAAAAAAF4g/oLf7cFcJJis/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520011%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="The RV will never get in here" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Fh8E8xnl058/TgeU5RTanJI/AAAAAAAAF4k/wZttnyWxnps/WA_Home%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The RV will never get in here" width="183" /></a>When I finally arrived it was completely dark outside, I could not see the house from the road and based on photos I saw from Google Street View, I realized that is the right place. I jumped off the truck to see the RV parking Patti was talking about, but there is no way I can get the RV down this driveway from such a narrow road. Forget about parking the RV by the house. For tonight, I just left the RV alongside the front of the house. I need to take it to the shop anyways, and by then I will have to find some solution for it.<br />
It was very exciting to see Patti after so long. She actually stepped outside and after the XOXOXO she helped me back the RV to its night parking spot. It was very late at night, we were both exhausted and went to bed. <br />
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-k2lxuV-IaJY/TgeU6J_3qTI/AAAAAAAAF4o/U1Og7wHbDJE/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Big empty spaces" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-T7NZdZ8cj8k/TgeU6eWK72I/AAAAAAAAF4s/owH_aD5eE-8/WA_Home%252520003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Big empty spaces" width="256" /></a>Thursday, June 23rd, 2011 – </strong></span>Next thing I know, I woke up on an air mattress in an unfamiliar house all by myself. Patti was already out to work. Diva was still locked in the bathroom from last night, and I was about to start my first day of the next chapter of my life – living in a brick and mortar house. I took Diva outside and fed her, then I took the grand tour. it is a very big house, yet very empty. No furniture yet. Most of our staff is still in storage in MN and yet to come. If my son will not come to live with us it would be a huge space just for the two of us. Moving from an RV to a 2,600 SqFt house is a very big change! Going from the bedroom to the kitchen almost felt like a journey in the carpetland wilderness. I can’t even live my cell phone in the bedroom – I won’t hear it!<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OhBAIOPqtA4/TgeU6nLYQzI/AAAAAAAAF4w/dka6YkYur98/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520008%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="House from the road" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PaCnrTqro_k/TgeU67LAhtI/AAAAAAAAF40/IaQfsgsRPMI/WA_Home%252520008_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="House from the road" width="256" /></a>I made a list of urgent things I need to get from the RV. The rest will be brought in tonight when Patti comes back home. That included the server, Diva’s bed and dishes, and some personal items. Although I do not have any active project at the moment, there are some minor issues I need to address, and those were waiting for me to get here. So the plan is to get those issue resolved first, before I move on.<br />
When Patti came home she first started to prepare for the Challah bread. She will not have time after work tomorrow and before dinner to bake the Challah, so she mixed the dough and let it rise. While rising we started to haul stuff from the RV home. The guiding rule was to leave anything we might need when going out on a trip, except for food. Even with food we left those items that could not get spoiled. We left some clothes, Hygiene items, dishes and any camping items. Even then, we have filled the car twice hauling items home. Lots and lots of items. All the office and work related items, all the food, we emptied and cleaned the refrigerator, some clothes and the list goes on and on. I know that one day, sooner or later, we will haul it back and go back to Full Time Rving. I have no doubt in my mind. I did not say a word, but the act of emptying what used to be my home and the center of my lifestyle in the last 2 years was very hard on me, and made me a little sad.<br />
We had a light sushi dinner tonight and went to bed early tonight, closing the first day at home.<br />
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bas16H8COgE/TgeU7PghytI/AAAAAAAAF44/gN3XhiOvMFY/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Shabbat dinner table" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Lz5m-0pjd9E/TgeU7XDlE1I/AAAAAAAAF48/a7i9mbmeMx8/WA_Home%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Shabbat dinner table" width="183" /></a>Friday, June 24th, 2011 – </strong></span>Another day to wake up to an empty house alone. This is going to be the norm in the near future, so I better get used to it! I started to put things away from the piles in the living room. On this floor we have the master bedroom, one room is an office and one is a guest room. If my son will join us we will get the basement – a whole floor for himself – that is a bedroom, a family room, a huge game room (with a pool table) and a private exit to the yard. Otherwise – I don’t think we will even use that part of the house. Even just the top floor is plenty big.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FX4P5s9TB1c/TgeU7pslIRI/AAAAAAAAF5A/Y5ZTkYPL2HY/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Shabbat Dinner Table" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_qdZR9Vm9Yw/TgeU7xZgZCI/AAAAAAAAF5E/MB9VuxRq0A0/WA_Home%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Shabbat Dinner Table" width="183" /></a>When I was done putting things away (on the floor for now), I made myself some fast breakfast and continued my work. Patti starts at 7:00am so by 6:30am she is out. She usually finishes work between 4:00pm and 4:30pm and gets home just after 5:00pm. I hope I will have enough work to fill my day, otherwise I will go nuts. <br />
When Patti came home she immediately started dinner. It is Friday today, and we did not celebrate Shabbat together for some time. We have a new candleholder set and a plate for the Challah bread I bought in CA, so that is the first time we actually using it together. <br />
Around 7:00pm dinner was ready – coconut curry chicken with rice and Israeli salad tonight. and of course – a freshly baked Challah bread. After dinner I put on some Shabbat songs in the background, and we just set around having coffee and talking. That was a nice evening and a good start for a weekend. <br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XM0VNQXvshc/TgeU8SKq9DI/AAAAAAAAF5I/Hc3AD7igPMg/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520006%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Kitchen, dining Office table" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-G6ab89kX0Uk/TgeU8sdw5RI/AAAAAAAAF5M/D3W_ZDdzxpE/WA_Home%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Kitchen, dining Office table" width="256" /></a>Saturday, June 25th, 2011 –</span></strong> Shopping day today. Not too much, but we decided to get some essentials like towel hangers and basic items around the house that will make living easier even before we get our stuff from MN. We also decided to buy an office desk so I can work comfortably. We stopped at some furniture stores, but the prices are outrageous! over $1,000 for a corner desk! Maybe if it was a house we owned and we had to buy a long term furniture, that would be an option, but we were looking for something cheaper. Much cheaper.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2Qq2-SqxBTA/TgeU8-3t_eI/AAAAAAAAF5Q/6oQUvu37Xko/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520013%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="House from the Back" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UR2YJLBjHwI/TgeU9J6DMSI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/bGYKUDisrmc/WA_Home%252520013_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="House from the Back" width="183" /></a>We ended up in Office Depot, buying a big L shape corner desk with a hutch for half the price. This is a delivery only item, so it will get here by Tuesday. That’s what they said. I also bought the very basic tools I needed – a hammer, a screwdriver and a ranch. Just in case I need to do something around the house. We came back home early afternoon. I hung the towel hangers and shower shelves, and fixed the Mezuzahs in both main doors of the house. A mezuzah is a small scroll in a fancy housing (usually decorated wood or metal or glass) that Jewish people hang at the entrance of their homes. Patti chose 2 mezuzahs online from a store in Israel, and she received them while I was still in CA, so now it was the time to fix them in place. Not much else is going on today, just taking the weekend easy. I called my son to see how he is doing, and making sure he still wants to come. Last word was not said in that subject yet.<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mInh3QI0_BA/TgeU98MUnAI/AAAAAAAAF5c/b2w06u6JuEA/s1600-h/WA_Home%252520002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Sunny Day in WA" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KcaUbC6glFk/TgeU-KE7-kI/AAAAAAAAF5g/Mop39eLnCFg/WA_Home%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Sunny Day in WA" width="183" /></a>Sunday, June 26th, 2011 –</span></strong> Woke up to a sunny morning. That would be now! this is the first morning with blue sky since I got here. It is so much nicer to see the shades on the lawn and the reflection of the sun rays from the leaves and trees around. Precious day! I understand I will not get to see many of those sunny days in this part of the country. So that’s where I am. Sitting in the only table we have at home right now, the kitchen dining office everything table, looking out the huge window to our back yard and writing this blog.<br />
So what’s next? I believe I will go to MN in mid July to get our belongings. Probably rent a U-Haul truck and get everything down here. Next I need to rent a pickup truck and get our boat from PA. Not sure when I am going to do that, but I hope it will be this summer, so we can enjoy the boat this year. We will slowly furnish the house, build the business and get used to live in a ‘normal’ house. That is, until we will resume RVing.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1North Creek, WA, USA47.827361220999876 -122.2304768229370247.790889220999873 -122.29206082293702 47.863833220999879 -122.16889282293702tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-51016306056084690172011-06-17T15:27:00.001-05:002011-06-17T15:27:04.583-05:00Fantasy Over<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">Not so simple these days. the hope that things will get smooth for me, and for my son is gone, and I might need to postpone my travel back North yet again. Just when everything seemed to fall into place and the end of the turmoil was in the visible horizon, everything flipped again. I miss Patti and can’t wait to get out of here. Too much and too long.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZMxTOVOJEIY/Tfu4NbBXugI/AAAAAAAAF18/Ch7xtV7f7YA/s1600-h/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520004%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaksRVPark 004" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaksRVPark 004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QQms1pxgI20/Tfu4TSUSbHI/AAAAAAAAF2A/3arv2WS5U-0/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520004_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="599" height="399"></a></font></p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4">Friday, June 17th, 2011 – </font></strong>Without any active project the days seem to crawl rather slow. Mid month just past, and I really need to find some source of income this month. Patti and I are doing great so far, and trying to support each other remotely as much as we can, looking forward to the day we can finally reunite, the day that is getting closer and closer now. Or is it?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-OrfdVJEURV4/Tfu4YnagvwI/AAAAAAAAF2E/5_L62LavYj8/s1600-h/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaksRVPark 001" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaksRVPark 001" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7LTuRrP0z8g/Tfu4b_lcStI/AAAAAAAAF2I/gSOa6PR62_k/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520001_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>I think it was Tuesday early afternoon when I called my ex, trying to expedite the handling of my son’s custody change. This was when I realized the she has no intentions to let him move at all. “You and I don’t agree on the way the kids should be raised, and I want them be raised my way”, she told me. After 3 months letting my son live with me, and leading him and I to believe she will agree, that came as a surprise. a bitter one.</p> <p>When I talked to my son and told him about this new situation, he could not believe. He was devastated. “How come? She told me she will let me go…. “ he mumbled. I could see tears in his eyes when he finally turned to me and said – “No matter what dad, I will always be with you. You are in my heart, and that no one can take!”</p> <p>I promised him that day that I will do anything in my power to get him to move in with me.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-G2qajRnJ1Y4/Tfu4eeXIxGI/AAAAAAAAF2M/Pqao9bOCqzs/s1600-h/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaksRVPark 002" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaksRVPark 002" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bEA4vRdBdnw/Tfu4g2igFfI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/QWW8Gk4hKjE/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>The next few days I started my research. I browsed the internet, contacted Family Attorneys and tried to understand where I stand. The most important thing is, that my son wants to be with me. Apparently the state of California puts a very heavy weight on the kids choice, and starting at the age of 14, they actually listen to the kids unless there is a reason not to (i.e. unfit parent). My son is only 5 months away from 14, and the judge will definitely put a heavy weight on my son’s choice, being so close to that age. I heard it from more than one source.</p> <p>Problem is – it all takes time, aggregation and money. Lots of it. Lawyers are very expensive here in CA ($300/hr), and being separated from Patti for a long time is not my preference either.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fZWS7LmEYbM/Tfu4j8WohPI/AAAAAAAAF2U/b7sXQT3Fnd8/s1600-h/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaksRVPark 005" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaksRVPark 005" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jtb8cfMRJp0/Tfu4lvzJ7bI/AAAAAAAAF2Y/i1vRsbXtP20/OrtegaOaksRVPark%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>The comforting thing is, that Patti supports me all the way – “it takes whatever it takes”, she said, “we have to do whatever we believe in, and whatever is the best for your son”. These words of encouragement meant the world to me! This shows deep love and care.</p> <p>So that is pretty much what occupies my mind these last few days. Getting everything ready to the time that I may need to hire the services of an attorney and stay here longer than I thought. </p> <h2>Last Hope</h2> <p>But just before that – I am going to try one more time with my ex, explaining to her that she could save a lot of aggravation time and money to all of us, by letting my son go. It would be much easier on him knowing that his mom let him go from her love and care to him, rather than being forced to do that.</p> <p>What can I say, my friend. Life is not a honeymoon, and surprises are around every corner. I hope and pray that this last attempt will be fruitful and I will be able to resume normal life soon, after all. WE will have to live and see, won’t we?</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-10295347213381037112011-06-12T17:35:00.000-05:002011-06-12T18:11:27.623-05:00Bumpy Road Take me Home<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">As you probably know, Patti and I are going through many changes this month, in each and every aspect of our life. This roller coaster ride is not always so smooth, and there are bumps on the way. With a lot of love and energies we just past yet another such bump. Hopefully the last.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7onWeCyRqJQ/TfVGJOUGM-I/AAAAAAAAFzY/lq3cNkSY2lw/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520095%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Cg89F1rEaD8/TfVGKy0JAvI/AAAAAAAAFzc/jiKhhy8cHMY/BearCanyonTrail%252520095_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="403"></a></font></p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7h0NzglwUHI/TfVGMbFR2gI/AAAAAAAAFzg/Iyh7fDSja3w/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520021%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSsFEj-O89HLNf1sSeP8Cy6k1hG3_UwXrtuvI28BbSP9zDAYJE6kv0EibmKD5wfvU4JEPhnzKNk5s_fownNkjqp4t1aoWrlj3AuEwWUbxZCUn1R0GhOhjJ1gWor8r98Je84iJJQdKHelYE/?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>Thursday, June 9th, 2011 –</strong></font> I just realized: Today is the first day of the rest of my life. That didn’t make any difference to life though… The familiar alarm sound put an end to my sweet dream at 5:30am. No time to roll in bed, or even debate if I should start welcoming the day – I have 45 minutes to be ready and out the door. Half asleep, still congested, I woke up and started my daily routine – Pop Tarts and Orange Juice for breakfast, Lunch meat and cheese sandwich and a snack for lunch, and a cup of coffee for me. Quick glance at the computer – maybe some email is coming with a new project – but nope. Nothing. Time to go.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HIllMOV-Ei8/TfVGPJ38jTI/AAAAAAAAFzo/QMWM0N1qS3A/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520015%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Rg2mL_oAbDs/TfVGQDE8j1I/AAAAAAAAFzs/PkO58e80B68/BearCanyonTrail%252520015_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>Drove down and came back to feed Diva, got a load of laundry going, cleaned sinks shower and bathroom, and sat down at my computer, trying to start a development of a new Android Application as an alternative source of income, just in case projects will not come through.</p> <p>Before I knew it – it was time to go again, drive my son back home. Wasn’t sure what to cook for dinner, so I called the master Chef: “Hey Patti, any idea what I can make for dinner?”, “<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WMR98A0gRiM/TfVGRBvFcTI/AAAAAAAAFzw/FRiTV2-RKyc/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520028%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ksPb87r4rM0/TfVGSHvLnQI/AAAAAAAAFz0/yQOeM_taN2A/BearCanyonTrail%252520028_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>What do you got out there?”, she asked. “Hmm some yams, potatoes, squash, and shrimp”. Step by step we arranged for a pressure cooker Squash medley and shrimp and mushroom in butter wine and garlic sauce. Remote team work! In between the peeling, the honey and the soy sauce, we talked about the new job and challenges Patti has now. She is actually doing great and appreciated for her experience in system analysis and design skills, and the software development lifecycle management ability. I am so happy for Patti, I think this is exactly what she wanted, and what she needed – a place that will utilize and appreciate her talent, experience and skills.</p> <p>Dinner was great, and we were both tired and ready to go to bed early tonight. A goodnight call to Patti and I was in my dream world.</p> <h3>Black Friday</h3> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong>Friday, June 10th, 2011 –</strong></font> Not the best day today. When I woke up I thought – wow already Friday, and I don’t even know what I am going to cook for tonight’s dinner. After I dropped my son at school I drove to a grocery store that carried Challah bread for Shabbat, got some mixed vegetables bag and drove back home. I decided to make a mixture of small vegetables – miniature Potatoes, miniature Onions, Brussels Sprouts, some Broccoli, Cauliflower, and some chicken drumsticks in the oven. That was the plan at least.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LKezNNQjHSk/TfVGS1vsk8I/AAAAAAAAFz4/VjEWp5kHrHc/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520053%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Lvexlpf3s2k/TfVGT69j8gI/AAAAAAAAFz8/eN568zdm3n8/BearCanyonTrail%252520053_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>At 2:00pm I drove to school to pick up my son. He spotted me in the parking lot and ran to the car – “Hey Aba”, he said. “I am glad you are here,I need five bucks”. “Where is your backpack?” I asked. “Oh, in class I will get it later tonight”. he said, “you have five bucks?” “For what?” I asked. “You forgot? today is the dance, and I am staying here till the evening”. I just realized – I completely spaced it out. Not only that – I also forgot my wallet at home, and did not have anything on me. “Well – I will drive and get you some money, I will call you when I get back….”. “But I don’t have my phone, I forgot it at home”, he said… “I will look every so often outside to see if you came”.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tb6rGFQMVtk/TfVGhpMuYeI/AAAAAAAAF0A/wFaFnhcmjq0/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520027%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tAch2xzcl7c/TfVGiRfJ8iI/AAAAAAAAF0E/in_eyo8Sxcc/BearCanyonTrail%252520027_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>The drive home is over 30 minutes each way, and with my big truck it is not a cheap ride. I drove it twice this morning, another round trip to get my son (but I didn’t), and another one to get him some money, and finally – I will have to drive another one to pick him after the dance. if you counted correctly – this is 8 times that route! about 5 hours on the road back and forth. On top of that – the Friday dinner – this is gone too! I am not going to eat by myself…</p> <p>Into this chaos, on the way home Patti calls. My mind is completely spaced out today, and I completely forgot – she had an important meeting at work. After telling her what happened today, I forgot to ask about that meeting… I think that the stress build up on both of us and just not being together for so long, just started the inevitable. a stupid argument on the phone.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t_mEahhiPEY/TfVGkIdtmyI/AAAAAAAAF0I/IkVxLt29i9g/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520065%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zpxqJ61-Iew/TfVGlLDP_oI/AAAAAAAAF0M/ROkDMMhB-Zw/BearCanyonTrail%252520065_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>That just shadowed this Friday completely, and ended the day in a Scratchy chord.</p> <p>Just wait – no so fast! Almost… Just before I went to bed I called Patti again. “We can’t be doing that!” I said. She agreed. We just laughed and realized what we did. Since we don’t have each other all the time, as we are so used to, we can’t unload our stress little bit at the time, and it builds up and explodes. So now that the steam is released – all is good again. Time to move on. Hey – just to make it clear – I love you Patti, more than anything. We will always be together!</p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LWShv3Au-vs/TfVGqY2V1wI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/Huj8-HmyYJw/s1600-h/GalHaircut%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="You can see some face now" border="0" alt="You can see some face now" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-umvfgDQfpCE/TfVGrUegQOI/AAAAAAAAF0U/u8MHMlvGy9I/GalHaircut%252520003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>Saturday, June 11th, 2011 –</strong></font> Not too much is planned for the day. I woke up in a better mood this morning and prepared a nice breakfast for us. Challah bread with cheese (the Shavuot leftovers), vegetables, yogurt, cereal and berries. My son in an attempt to find activities other than computer games, wanted to visit a friend and get his hair cut. I thought both were great ideas! The long hair he wears is too hot for the summer, and hides his face. I like him in shorter hair. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O0SGwDSc2mA/TfVGtWKARwI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/Jac7oAIbIsM/s1600-h/SatBreakfastl%252520001%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Saturday Breakfast" border="0" alt="Saturday Breakfast" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjwlvX2maw_Lwut5LKfCpPnr9QFlraFLRIVfijcNLbr71u8BflkrBNnn5ZWn_ELpVXS69CYnuEdaEcEShpioKRkwE_iwBr3k9fh6QewfJfRqsvkY5b0VZJvYjUSmSlw9Hp8TBRbraPel9n/?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>We drove down to the city, and found a nice ‘Old Fashion’ style barber shop. The huge mane just piled on the floor bit by bit, and before long I could actually see that there was a face underneath that hair. Next – we drove to his friends’ house but he could not come over. Had some family commitments. Next week, his dad said. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IINoZnRJpPA/TfVGw6hByXI/AAAAAAAAF0g/6whwxRexkVw/s1600-h/CandyStore%252520001%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The Candy Store on 74" border="0" alt="The Candy Store on 74" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jNAGTo9G168/TfVGyH4uDqI/AAAAAAAAF0k/uOTV1qlblnA/CandyStore%252520001_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>Drove back home, and thought what could I do for the rest of the day. On the way in, I noticed some activity around the candy store (a famous store just at the entrance of the RV Park) and decided to take a look. We went there and walked around the different booths of local artist – an air spray painter, a local singer, a wood carver, and of course the home made chocolate fudge of the candy store.</p> <h3>The Hike</h3> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BCdCS2IPaI0/TfVGzSqDkUI/AAAAAAAAF0o/lXngwmxy1wA/s1600-h/CandyStore%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="CandyStore 004" border="0" alt="CandyStore 004" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UELKZxkwyzk/TfVG0Y7XIkI/AAAAAAAAF0s/jzQ-VHpxOFc/CandyStore%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>On the way out, I glanced and saw a trail head I never noticed before. It was on the same side of the park, across from the other trails we took before. That is a good idea, I thought – a hike.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aJAWr8SkO6E/TfVG2sqfhLI/AAAAAAAAF0w/0AdHcR4Ur2A/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520012%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trailhead" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trailhead" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lcpGg_j_TjI/TfVG3IeWEuI/AAAAAAAAF00/4SrkKlTokHw/BearCanyonTrail%252520012_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>My son didn’t ‘feel like it’, as teenagers say. I kinda figure that. A good time to catch up with games, but that was fine with me. I could take the time and walk in my own pace, stop and take a picture whenever I want, and clean my head. Since I am by myself, it was an opportunity to take a little longer hike. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kcMRSkMr_fI/TfVG4z1xykI/AAAAAAAAF04/YKoePRzDZfk/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520089%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="In my hiking gear" border="0" alt="In my hiking gear" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JxVDZa6e3fc/TfVG5k35SUI/AAAAAAAAF08/OgF661FKwJs/BearCanyonTrail%252520089_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>We walked back to our site, and I put my hiking shoes, vest, hat, walking stick, grabbed the old camera (yes the new one is still in repair) and water belt. I was ready to go. </p> <p>My android phone is now on the stock battery (The original battery that cam with it) since the bigger battery failed. That means that the phone will not last long if I will use it as a GPS or navigation device. Back to my old GPS, I turned it on, acquired position and started my hike.</p> <p>At the trail head I stopped at the topo map, planning my route. I chose a round trip about 5 miles long, going through some stream and returning to the park via a gravel road from the east.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-c-Y3cbUVZSw/TfVG7c6Fl7I/AAAAAAAAF1A/tteHo6opo4k/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="My hike - 600 feet elevation over 5 miles" border="0" alt="My hike - 600 feet elevation over 5 miles" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UcBlSiR3Dlo/TfVG9Bf4C_I/AAAAAAAAF1E/vtSDwA-EDQ8/BearCanyonTrail_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="593" height="366"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GFPAH4A5TWo/TfVG_XhECgI/AAAAAAAAF1I/X7ykMKRjIsc/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520023%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UPaLTcA35NA/TfVHAohI_CI/AAAAAAAAF1M/dK8FeRXvmJ8/BearCanyonTrail%252520023_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>It was a hot day and the hotter I got the more flies turned around my head and drove me crazy. I just decided I am trying to ignore them and every few seconds just killed another one. Not that it helped, but it kept my mind off of the irritating buzz. Flowers are blooming all around in yellow, pink, red and white. I could smell them even through my congested nose. The trail went uphill about 600 feet along 4 miles or so, until it reached the gravel road. From there the path was wide and clear and constantly downhill, back toward the campground. At one point, a car came from around the corner, spinning its wheels and almost hit me. I jumped to the said scared – crazy drivers…<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-MToz5DczoRw/TfVHDw3RlsI/AAAAAAAAF1Q/jEEDr7A7g8w/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520085%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-byWnK6tQGtg/TfVHE63CqeI/AAAAAAAAF1U/LclYzQEDoaI/BearCanyonTrail%252520085_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a> I thought. Few minutes later that same car came back down. The car stopped by me and a young guy opened the window and said – “Sorry about earlier, the tires are not the best and sometimes spins, I did not mean to scare you”. “That’s OK”, I said – “don’t worry about it, and thanks for stopping and apologizing – that’s nice of you”. “Want cold beer?” he asked. “No, thanks I am good”. I replied. “Well – it is for my mom, and its not so good for her – take one and save it from her”, he tried to convince me. “Is it cold?” I asked. “Very…” he handed me an ice cold can of beer. I grabbed the beer, thanked the guy and he disappeared down the road.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-IULkugeCeP8/TfVHIRpFq4I/AAAAAAAAF1Y/eTokLPEYyEE/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520105%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zefy3WApCh0/TfVHJ_YhxtI/AAAAAAAAF1c/9JOpeQvjw1M/BearCanyonTrail%252520105_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>I don’t think it was a great quality beer, but a very cold beer in a very hot day was a perfect combination. I could feel the cold beer going down my throat cooling off my warm body. Later downhill, I saw the guy sitting on the porch in a farm house with his mom. I could not believe that in SoCal there are places like that – a small village with little farms, simple houses, gravel roads. Chickens cows and horses in the yards – a country style small town in crowded SoCal.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IO9A-ebMdLM/TfVHODVx2nI/AAAAAAAAF1g/R11slCMQgFc/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520111%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IVPBKbI88fI/TfVHgKUIK_I/AAAAAAAAF1k/JFZym_SxxxQ/BearCanyonTrail%252520111_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a></p> <p>I talked to Patti again on the way as I was crossing this village, approaching the RV park. When I arrived I took a nice shower, loaded my GPS trail and photos into the computer, ate a light frozen dinner and was ready to go to bed. Not before I talked to Patti, of course – got to keep the flame <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2w3RWWKd6mc/TfVHgl3NjuI/AAAAAAAAF1o/lQ0C1V-Mh9Q/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800">. She took the day easy, she told me, cooked herself some fancy meal, and wine, and enjoyed the evening.</p> <p>BTW – most of the picture in this post are from this hike.</p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vZ8QY1UJISE/TfVHjM9m9tI/AAAAAAAAF1s/yrq9K9ezMUo/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail%252520115%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-mjMbjq3QNN4/TfVHkAXOV5I/AAAAAAAAF1w/oTMA2lgRha8/BearCanyonTrail%252520115_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>Sunday, June 12th, 2011 –</strong></font> Got some work to finish for a customer, an old task I promised to get done. After a small breakfast I sat down to finish this task and write this post. Later today I would like to clean the RV, prepare a nice dinner (after two days without cooking) and maybe watch a movie tonight. that’s for today.</p> <p>The rest of the week – I hope to get some progress and hopefully finalize an agreement with my ex regarding my son, although it is hard to believe it would happen. Try to finish as much food as I can from what we have here, and get ready to move. in a week and a half – on Wednesday, I will be driving the RV for the last time before it is parked unoccupied in my back yard. Will have to learn how to winterize it for the first time, but that is not in a long time. </p> <p>Beyond that – I might be travelling to MN and PA to pick up all our belongings from the storage units around the country and gather all in one place. That’s all I have planned for now, anything else will deal as it comes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HnMaOLfweLY/TfVHluGGlbI/AAAAAAAAF10/kKNSDyzH8iQ/s1600-h/BearCanyonTrail_stitch%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Canyon Trail" border="0" alt="Bear Canyon Trail" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NEl6HqZFHeo/TfVHnAgheSI/AAAAAAAAF14/C0juXHMv44I/BearCanyonTrail_stitch_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="611" height="130"></a></p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-53803463274832602812011-06-08T15:02:00.002-05:002011-06-09T21:05:47.919-05:00The unfulfilled Itch<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Time is playing games with me. Some days are as long forever twice, and some days are as short as few seconds. Being on the fence plays with mood, with time and with life in general. The slow down on work doesn’t help to fill the days with smile either.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pNTvwoa6t6I/TfFXEVC1w1I/AAAAAAAAFx8/NFrqGo3XAYM/s1600-h/IMAG0124%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" border="0" height="360" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c0V6VPJhwvk/TfFXNtoeeYI/AAAAAAAAFyA/KGeyq0MVRfs/IMAG0124_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" width="602" /></a></span><br />
<h3>New Dad To Old Child</h3><strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iXb-FpHJ6ts/TfFXhsQkCBI/AAAAAAAAFyE/OP5JO4XoVPg/s1600-h/IMAG0114%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="My son palys computer games" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2YdF2esANEw/TfFXz3aktRI/AAAAAAAAFyI/m86xdplDPdA/IMAG0114_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son palys computer games" width="167" /></a>Saturday, June 4th, 2011 –</span></strong> I am re-learning to be a parent. Both myself and my son who joined me couple months ago are adjusting to each other and getting to know each other better. It has many great moments, but some tense and frustration that any parent of my teenager in the world has experienced. You know, the ‘Normal’ stuff – The ‘your generation doesn’t know nothing, and can’t understand it’ is just one example. When you were young you didn’t have …. This is how everybody are dressing nowadays. and the best one – ‘I am a ‘Gamer’ it is in my blood, this is a different type of personality you never knew because it is new…<br />
This last statement is a response to attempts to get my son do something other than playing computer games. On the computer, on the XBOX, every free minute of his day. Any ideas there?<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BAgYzu0IIWY/TfFzg3jBaCI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/0avu0-sA6VY/s1600-h/IMAG0115%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Still the place I call Home" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-aQKu_ZytCEk/TfFzlpti2FI/AAAAAAAAFyY/wDpULknzVR0/IMAG0115_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Still the place I call Home" width="254" /></a>So anyways – I was happy when on Saturday (after the refrigerator incident) he agreed to go visit with friends. I drove him down to a friend’s house, and drove back to the RV, cleaning and washing the RV from the inside out. When my son finally called me to pick him up, it was already 9:00pm. I jumped in the car and drove towards the campground exit. But guess what? The road was blocked! I knew they closed the road at night during the weekdays, but they just decide to change it and close it everyday, including weekends. So with Hwy 74 (Ortega Hwy) blocked, I had to drive all the way around – that is almost 2 hours drive each way! That was a looong night on the road. <br />
We did not do anything special this weekend. Can’t even remember Sunday, it went so fast. Monday was somewhat tensed between us, and the fact that I have absolutely no active project worries me and doesn’t add to the overall positive mood, if you know what I mean.<br />
<h3>Shavuot</h3><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Yrji-BlYeEY/TfF0aKnRPhI/AAAAAAAAFyg/LEH-WjD0JFY/s1600-h/IMAG0118%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FPK-dVuuHiE/TfF0c0p2XqI/AAAAAAAAFyk/sEt5I_jxZEg/IMAG0118_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" width="254" /></a>Tuesday, June 7th, 2011 –</strong></span> I thought I will not make a big deal out of it, and just let it go. Tuesday was Shavuot eve. Shavuot is a Jewish holiday exactly 7 weeks from Passover, and one of the traditions of this holiday is to eat dairy products and drink wine (Cheese and wine). On the way back from school we stopped at the grocery store and bought some nice cheese like Brie, the laughing cow, Boursin, and Camembert. To accompany this variety we got Ritz crackers and a vegetable tray. For dessert we got a strawberry cheese cake and drove home. No dinner cooking tonight – it is a free cheese bar day! I also had couple glasses of Zinfandel (no work, remember?) which contributed this time for the positive mood. To celebrate the night we decided to watch a comedy from Patti’s movie collection. We found the Yes Man, and sat and laughed together. The cheese cake was a perfect finale for the day, and by the time the movie was over it was bed time anyways.<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 –</span></strong> I am expecting an Interesting day today. Couple things suppose to happen – first, I need to take the RV to the shop so they fix the valves, and second – my son is going to go to his mom’s house while I am waiting for the RV, and while there, he should try to talk to her about moving in with me. Maybe if it comes from him directly, it will be more convincing. <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--XCNXCoN1Zs/TfF0jae34GI/AAAAAAAAFyo/B70qOpGIk5U/s1600-h/IMAG0116%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cmPf3WHeKf4/TfF0k8ePpxI/AAAAAAAAFys/iNbekMQ_HsY/IMAG0116_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Maountains Hwy 74" width="254" /></a>After dropping my son at school this morning I drove back and started to get the RV ready to move. This is the first time I am doing both the inside and the outside. Usually Patti is taking care of the inside while I fold everything outside. I had to find place for all the knickknacks and the fragile decorations we have. I think I did fine, we will see tonight when I reopen everything again.<br />
It did not take me more than 30 minutes to be hooked up and ready to go, but it did bring back the memories of the excitement of going to a new place from one campground to another. As I pulled out with the RV, I felt this pinch in my heart, looking back into the happy travel days, sweet memories, that will have to be dormant for sometime now. Like a Hitch Itch that can not be fulfilled.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kN-tWQCe3OJDLLZsTlEyBiWCXJbT9Ea1r83mAxdd8aNIyB0X9GGalTwuyHatDPH4Wrh3MCKrZyiuoBrZDEC-Zy7XTbFHfp9iMTqDUhISEj4xHvPQyIMKEAU6FtCacJYWf1RrVaLrgzh_/s1600-h/IMAG0117%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="IMAG0117" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SpAccUiNraA/TfF0p3rFpKI/AAAAAAAAFy0/PPaxreC4gtU/IMAG0117_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG0117" width="254" /></a>After about 45 minutes drive I arrived RV Giant service center and unhooked the RV. They thought it would be something simple, and within an hour or two I will be ready to go, but just an hour ago I got a phone call that one cable cracked and the other one got loose, and they need to install a new assembly. this is going to be a $700 bill.<br />
I am not sure what to do – The gray water valve worked just fine before they touched it a month ago, and although the black water valve got damaged in KS, I never had a problem with the cable. They have just replaced the valve a month ago, but I can not prove that they caused it… They tried to call the extended warranty company but they will give an answer only tomorrow. Well – I need my home back! <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oZX5mH3zvdM/TfF0tFPfmiI/AAAAAAAAFy4/yKokBZ80W5k/s1600-h/IMAG0119%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="IMAG0119" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oTpknLlvtIs/TfF0vFeVBII/AAAAAAAAFy8/KNwoYkB2S7E/IMAG0119_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMAG0119" width="254" /></a>I told them to fix it anyways, and if not approved I will have to pay the bill. Now I need to cross my fingers and wait for the answer tomorrow. Once ready, I still need to drop the RV in the campground and go get my son from his mom’s house, and it is already 4:00pm. Lost a full day.<br />
Sitting at a coffee shop and trying to pass the time waiting for the RV to get fixed, reviewing everything that happened since Saturday, and writing this blog. At least to this point…<br />
<h3>Coming back home</h3><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBPivLepRRfuLjk2cUZxHTlTNNQRBoJ0atjlhKWz_svy-vyLG2p1igKMfkcyPrvUkWMjr3NWxCAvzHlPKdZ321U6lbblctdLoELgc_jyWMM-G1dbDMIgRC1_EEYwLfbmu9bOkjdcmG4OvB/s1600-h/IMAG0129%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Cordova Valley, Mission Viejo" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bAJ9HHKT06w/TfF0zmuY2qI/AAAAAAAAFzE/ITYVU_VqTJ8/IMAG0129_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Cordova Valley, Mission Viejo" width="254" /></a>4:30pm, the service manager called - the rig is ready. I was only 5 minutes away. stepped in, hooked it up and drove back to the campground. I still have to drop the RV, go and get my son and drive back, before 8:30pm when they close the road. I think I still have time.<br />
It took me about an hour and a half to get the Ortega Oaks. My backup skills are still in shape as I put the RV rig on the stop in one single maneuver, Even I was impressed. Actually – only I was impressed – there was no one else there. Connected electricity and sewer, didn’t even open or try the valves yet. With the slides still in, I left the RV as is, turned around and drove to town.<br />
My son was not home, he said when I text him, he is with his mom at the public library. No problem – library it is. Readjusting the GPS (my Google navigation on my android) and driving to the library. Full scan of the library room by room yield nothing. Could not find anyone resembling my son or his mother. Texting again – Where are you know? – On the way, he replied. I must have just missed them. Ran out jumped back in the car and headed towards his mom’s house. 4 minutes and I was there. No I did not drive like a maniac, but she lives few blocks down the road. There was no one home.. but as I stopped she just pulled in.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZYGYZJeOhjM/TfF02pFHIFI/AAAAAAAAFzI/sFmkrfPu7-o/s1600-h/IMAG0130%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Mission Viejo" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LjuVKXv7o3c/TfF05VPLcBI/AAAAAAAAFzM/HetWLY-Q8rE/IMAG0130_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Mission Viejo" width="254" /></a>Didn’t have tome to say anything, gave a quick hug to my daughter while my son jumps in, and we were on out way back home. So how was it? I asked. What was said? Well, said my son, we talked a lot, I presented all my points, but there is no decision yet. She is closer to decide and I think she considers it positively. That’s it? I asked. Yep. He replied. That was it.<br />
This is the first time my son is actually participating in setting the RV. I showed him the procedure, and where to look before you open the slides, when he said – good thing you showed me because there are fruits on the floor that would become fruit mush it you would have open the slides. He picked them all – first mistake in setting the inside. Net we found 2 broken cups on the floor. Must have forgotten those somewhere. last – I found my computer mouse in 3 pieces on the floor – the main part, the battery cover and the batteries. Good thing it didn’t break, but I have to exercise more caution next time, and pay attention to details.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_C5DYyozBow/TfF1DLdTIkI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/XxcN6a1MLpI/s1600-h/IMAG0131%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Crown Vally bridge over Cordova Valley" border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93sobJPmWWYdPLXGnpb1ZCbq0Cnep_aHXmRjXldnPzCUELI4XL6lZFqH5vRqlcaJWtJNja-G0WTIx9JaxvIsuxgXV1cNAS_W0vAcWrHZv86lGLIanGn11KHA_oJS2P6eAjAInamY5oz2J/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Crown Vally bridge over Cordova Valley" width="254" /></a>After maybe 30 minutes or so, the RV was back again to normal. Rugs, knickknacks, computers and all.How about another movie tonight, my son asked? Hmmm, why not, I thought to myself. – Sure! I said. We looked up the movies in the big Patti movie case, but we could not tell by the name what is each movie. I didn’t see most of them, My son Googled them up, and the decision was made – “The Cleaner” a comedy about a janitor who thought he is a CIA agent.<br />
That was a nice closure for a long day. Tomorrow another 5:30am wake up. Got to go to bed!<br />
~Good nightMottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com0Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.618202017314545 -117.4218469187011933.431483517314547 -117.6306434187012 33.804920517314542 -117.21305041870119tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-57724842649879244622011-06-04T20:44:00.000-05:002011-06-04T20:54:48.591-05:00RV Shabbat in CA<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">It has been just couple days since I posted my last blog post, but these last couple days were so full of events, that if I will wait few more days the blog would either be too long, or I will just forget it. Yesterday was actually a great night, and I am pretty proud of myself for what I prepared, so if you want the menu and recipe, it’s right here, and much more.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-18lK6DP-0uA/Terg4RXmkWI/AAAAAAAAFv8/EGSlzdz0PoQ/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520002%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Dining table ready for Shabbat" border="0" alt="Dining table ready for Shabbat" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-S5fGm3vV-lY/Terg7KpuvlI/AAAAAAAAFwA/9Pp-ZyYeJ80/OrtegaOaks%252520002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="590" height="393"></a></font></p> <h3>Him who prepares for Shabbat, Rest in Shabbat. Really?</h3> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong>Friday, June 3rd, 2011 –</strong></font> It is a long day today and I have lots of cooking and shopping to do. 5:30am the annoying alarm is singing again. in 45 minutes I have to be on my way out. Getting dressed, making lunch, coffee, glance at my computer to see if there are any urgencies, and – oops we got to go.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3zIsm4FOAAU/Terg9DT6DqI/AAAAAAAAFwE/LmYEjqkykHs/s1600-h/IMAG0083%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0083" border="0" alt="IMAG0083" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lRO6I7Si4Q0/Terg-F5GWPI/AAAAAAAAFwI/ydLqWy8G8tg/IMAG0083_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="167" height="254"></a>Dropped my son at school, and started to plan my errands: I need to buy a book for him, a Challah bread for Shabbat, and I wanted to have a half-way decent looking candle holders for tonight. Using Google places on my android, I find a Barnes & Nobles, but they open at 10:00am, That is three hours away! There is also Borders in Irvine that opens at 9:00am. OK, I got an anchor – a starting point, now I need to find a grocery store close by. Again, punching some keys and android comes up with trader Joe’s – just by the Irvine Campus. Great! </p> <p>I got to the store at 7:30am and had 30 minutes to kill. A coffee place close by was a perfect start for the day. Sat down with a hot coffee and a chocolate Croissant. Had to plan the rest of the day, and even found a Judaica store close by.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m0L5xLg0Y9U/Terg__BTJ2I/AAAAAAAAFwM/EmoQXHjAUWQ/s1600-h/IMAG0085%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0085" border="0" alt="IMAG0085" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dZ2PR4bT9RA/TerhAwY9LgI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/HIraRQyPEIs/IMAG0085_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>Trader Joe’s is a special grocery store, small but full of special products, mainly organic. I found Challah bread, Kosher Wine, Persian cucumbers, Organic Chicken and fruits for my dessert. Got everything in a recycled paper bag that proudly carried the store logo, put everything in the truck and continued to my next stop. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VjOpvG5n0OM/TerhDUfbycI/AAAAAAAAFwU/W_-MkVEhzfk/s1600-h/IMAG0088%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Art in the Judaica Store" border="0" alt="Art in the Judaica Store" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9RZFI4zTE9A/TerhExr-F8I/AAAAAAAAFwY/MdA4rsb1IfU/IMAG0088_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>A short stop at Borders where I got a book for my son, and couple photography books for myself, and I was ready to head out the my next stop – Golden Dreidel – a Judaica store. This is a beautiful store with anything a Jewish person may need – Tallit (a Jewish prayer Shawl), Kippah (yarmulke), Menorahs, Candle Holders, Challah covers, Mezuzas – and so much more. Many of the items were handmade by Israeli artists and were just amazingly nice. I found a set of wooden candle holders for Shabbat, and a Challah plate – a glass platform to put the Challah bread on, and finaly was on my way back home.</p> <h3>So what’s Cookin’</h3> <p>When I got home it was already about 11:00am, so I did not have much time. I have to start with the items that needs the longest time to cook, I was thinking to myself – and that is my main dish. So here is my first dish (with my modifications)</p> <h4><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c_xMP7D_Xgw/TerhIWOeHJI/AAAAAAAAFwc/55CyRfqWoSw/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520007%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 007" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 007" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qlABggaewew/TerhMHstXhI/AAAAAAAAFwg/bRkA3x3fcLA/OrtegaOaks%252520007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Lemon Rosemary Chicken</h4> <p> </p> <p><strong>Ingredients:</strong></p> <ul> <li>4 skinless bone-in chicken thighs and 4 Drumsticks (about 5 lbs) </li> <li>1 Tablespoon olive oil</li> <li>0.5 Lbs. Tri-Color baby potatoes </li> <li>About 10 Tri-Color miniature Cauliflower</li> <li>about 10 miniature onions, they have a name, can’t remember it)</li> <li>4 cloves of garlic minced, and about the same amount whole.</li> <li>1/3 Cup honey</li> <li>1/4 cup white wine</li> <li>2 tablespoons lemon juice</li> <li>3 tablespoons cornstarch</li> <li>1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh rosemary </li> <li>1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh Italian Parsley</li> <li>1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh Cilantro</li> <li>1 teaspoon salt</li> <li>1/4 teaspoon ground pepper</li></ul> <p><strong>Directions:</strong></p> <ol> <li><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YSR2raai0XU/TerhPoUnIuI/AAAAAAAAFwk/bpKXEJHC1nI/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520005%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 005" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 005" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ReiI2dUuttQ/TerhQyAqXOI/AAAAAAAAFwo/pj99cuVTsF4/OrtegaOaks%252520005_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Rinse chicken and pat dry. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over moderately high heat. Add chicken and cook, turning, until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.<br clear="all"></li> <li><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-08u_bIWdXGw/TerhTzhSN3I/AAAAAAAAFws/aTVgPNtf21k/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520008%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 008" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 008" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kgPTvuHMI_8/TerhU7MqFYI/AAAAAAAAFww/0XrIcQiyrt0/OrtegaOaks%252520008_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Place the potatoes, onion, Cauliflower and garlic in a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker; top with chicken.<br clear="all"></li> <li>Stir together honey,lemon juice, cornstarch, rosemary, salt & pepper in a small bowl. Pour over chicken. Cover and cook 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.<br clear="all"></li></ol> <p>Ok, the slow cooker is going now. Rinsing all the dishes and starting me next dish – an Israeli salad. I think I already gave the recipe sometime before, but here it is again:</p> <h4>Israeli Salad</h4> <p><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-U-SvNTsiNME/TerhXolw64I/AAAAAAAAFw0/GsQnF3FUKAc/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520013%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 013" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 013" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8ZwOZD6oGLY/TerhZChpNMI/AAAAAAAAFw4/eFoyBFoByTo/OrtegaOaks%252520013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Ingredients</strong></p> <ul> <li>3 cucumbers (I used about 6 Persian cucumbers which are much smaller but tastier)</li> <li>3 tomatoes (I love those on the vine)</li> <li>2 large onions </li> <li>1 tbsp. olive oil</li> <li>2 tbsp. Chopped Fresh Cilantro</li> <li>squeeze of fresh lemon </li> <li>salt and pepper </li></ul> <p><strong>Directions</strong></p> <ol> <li><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_06-RhcF_Zg/TerhbTv_CWI/AAAAAAAAFw8/7bkYX9B2XqY/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520017%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 017" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 017" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ccdQhSs4ROE/TerheCS4g_I/AAAAAAAAFxA/7PWeuFYtUHQ/OrtegaOaks%252520017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Cut cucumbers tomatoes and onions into small cubes (about 1/4 inch) </li> <li>Add oil and spices<br clear="all"></li> <li><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-szd9nY4RcIw/Terhgij6sHI/AAAAAAAAFxE/mPiEqocO3W0/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520015%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 015" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 015" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LdBTf1yXGU8/TerhiZ4jCjI/AAAAAAAAFxI/AOLHcohVFmw/OrtegaOaks%252520015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a>Mix and serve. It can sit in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before you have to throw it away.<br clear="all"></li></ol> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5KT3YWYiSss/TerhmX59asI/AAAAAAAAFxM/lSRbLKujeRw/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520020%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 020" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 020" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDp2f5O4MUOgHVHMKLGIjQfKIH_TUPCWNJL2ATNrK4S9nMWoNa_hYVu1UI0oy3bNR9KX_2KnKJ1Jy8AmE-NhyphenhyphenXIBWnnKkNOmU1tS249MZYYpjGAecJsMwOzL_W0nl0fclW-if271lXcHax/?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>The salad is cooling in the refrigerator, and I am headed to my next dish: Mixed some raw Tahini with water lemon and salt to make a Tahini dip. That would be served tonight with Hummus, pine nuts olive oil and Paprika. I also have the eggplant salad I prepared yesterday, so I am down to my last dish – Fruit salad.</p> <p>I cut 3 oranges, 2 apples and big pack of strawberries, put in a bowl add topped with orange juice until all the fruits were covered. Added 1/2 cup of sugar, some vanilla extract and 1 tsp. of cinnamon. That’s it – ready to go!</p> <h2>Waiting…</h2> <p>By 2:00pm every thing was done. Time to go and pick up my son from school. I stopped at the grocery store for couple last items and another quick stop at the gas station. When we got back home it was already going on 4:00pm. Don’t eat anything, I told my son – there is a lot of food tonight and I don’t want you to fill up! OK, Aba (That’s how my son calls me – it means dad in Hebrew). </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HhJcaTR8vxI/TerhrfopDTI/AAAAAAAAFxU/HlcOJdk3C0g/s1600-h/RVShabbat%252520003%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="My son in the 'known' gaming position" border="0" alt="My son in the 'known' gaming position" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tW5L9eAkeTE/TerhsWUv1hI/AAAAAAAAFxY/H7yHzLIB0rs/RVShabbat%252520003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>At 5:00pm Patti’s brothers’ Fiancé (let’s just call her Allison) calls. I am back from work, we are on the way, she said. That’s great! I replied. We will be waiting for you hungry – come fast – I joked around.</p> <p>So I am cleaning up, getting the table ready and my son is playing with the XBOX. 6:30pm. My son is asking – OK, when are they coming? I don’t know, I said. I am hungry too. 7:30, and it is starting to get darker. My son looks at me, and I look at him back. Don’t know. Maybe traffic, I said. Let’s wait a little more…</p> <p>8:00pm we heard a knock on the door. They are here! They made it! time to eat!!</p> <h2>RV Friday Night</h2> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhZuqlcConZKEjdEF2Am2zebGpkuP1wZ-Y1IjobHWm970i9LX_QGJiUGQaeQpWe5o5DC5dRl9HdIB1ElF6jx_uWT-gV6ZSwN4LWyat5nc10ppXVoU-2kVCiAYpD23FkYJxIR4xympgo77/s1600-h/RVShabbat%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ready to start the feast" border="0" alt="Ready to start the feast" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-y_z_7QeVlmM/TerhwT4TulI/AAAAAAAAFxg/9CtK92OsbnU/RVShabbat%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>I took the extra folding chairs back from the storage underneath the bed. The table was set and we were anxious to start dinner. I lit the candles and read the Hebrew blessing for the Shabbat, while Allison reads the English translation from the printed papers I prepared earlier for everyone. I cited the blessing for the wine and let everyone drink a sip. Even Patti’s brother and his Fiancé (yes, AKA Allison) who usually do not drink alcohol, tasted the wine. Well appreciated!<br>My son sang the blessing for the Challah, cut a piece and handed everyone, and the meal started. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0TY3B6A_xXY/Terhy8Qpn5I/AAAAAAAAFxk/TByXp65vQ0E/s1600-h/RVShabbat%252520002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="RVShabbat 002" border="0" alt="RVShabbat 002" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tBYE7gk5KsE/TerhzyF7XoI/AAAAAAAAFxo/mZubMXLqcnQ/RVShabbat%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>I started with an appetizer – an artichoke I steamed with lemon, garlic and bay leafs, served with spinach dip. That was followed by the salads and the main course. I think the food was good, as the plate came back empty, The only left overs we got are some salads - I think it was just too much.</p> <p>I put up some Shabbat Song by Dudu Fisher (a very famous and talented Jewish Cantor) in the background, and we moved to the living area. After a short while I served the fruit salad and coffee and we just sat and talked. The conversation got somehow to music, and I mentioned that – yeah, we do have a musical instrument in thus house.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jE_parNAJEQ/Terh1qG5xBI/AAAAAAAAFxs/jRwM5wLm_0A/s1600-h/RVShabbat%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Patti's Brother and his Fince playing and singing " border="0" alt="Patti's Brother and his Fince playing and singing " align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_9M0wlQh6T4/Terh2pSn1UI/AAAAAAAAFxw/Yf3_wGzKr4Y/RVShabbat%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>I pulled my keyboard from underneath the bed, wiped off the dust and brought it over. I did not touch it for over two years! Allison played some Christian music and sang while her to-be-husband is joining and singing along. I played some songs too, surprisingly I remembered something. Not much but enough to make a recognizable sound.</p> <p>The conversation went on and on, and it wasn’t before midnight when our guests were too tired and had to drive back home. Might be back tomorrow they said. That would be lovely!</p> <p>I was too tired to do anything at all, so I just put the keyboard away, handed my son his bed sheets (he sleeps in the hide-a-bed couch we have in the living room) and went to sleep.</p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong>Saturday, June 4th, 2011 –</strong></font> Woke up to a big mess. Well I knew that, so I wasn’t surprised. Had my morning coffee outside absorbing the morning sun rays while talking to Patti on the phone, filling her up with the last events. I also let Diva out, fed her and gave her some fresh water.</p> <h3>A disaster that didn’t happen</h3> <p>It is going to be a long cleaning day. I washed all the dishes, got all the furniture away and vacuumed the carpets. Then I mopped the floors, put the dishes away and was going to organize the refrigerator. But wait – there is no light in the refrigerator. My son did notice earlier that the light was flickering, so maybe the bulb just burnt. I looked at the microwave – yes – there is electricity. Closed the refrigerator door, and looked at the panel – it was dead! no lights, no response from any button. Oh My God. I have so much food and its going to go all to the garbage!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dw1GHRRDoOo/Terh4yHQQ9I/AAAAAAAAFx0/Gr3L29avjpE/s1600-h/IMAG0106%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The refrigerator panel looked just fine" border="0" alt="The refrigerator panel looked just fine" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oDiTouqWWTw/Terh53-q7uI/AAAAAAAAFx4/R9p1xEa94zQ/IMAG0106_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>My son was in the shower, when I called him: Hurry up, we are packing and going to the shop,. We got to fix the RV. I went outside to the refrigerator panel, maybe I will see something, but nope. I checked electricity in the sockets – and the sockets were live. I called the shop and told the service manager – we are on the way.</p> <p>Rushing to clean and fold everything I finished the inside (usually Patti is doing it), and was ready to pull the slides in. Opened the panel door, push the slides button, and – nothing. Not a sound. Pushed the other slide buttons – same nothing. I t didn’t make sense. Both the refrigerator and all the slides are out? Must be something else – something in common to both. But what is common to Slide Out motor and a refrigerator? Of course! DC power. I have AC but DC is out… </p> <p>First thing to check is the main switch for the Battery. It is a red big key type switch used for storage, and disconnects the battery completely. I opened the basement door, and voila – there it it is – the switch was in the ‘off’ position. I must have moved it when I fed Diva earlier this morning. Turned it on, and the refrigerator came back to life, and so is the color to my face. Whew – that was a scary moment…</p> <p>Called the shop and cancelled my visit. I told him what happened and he laughed. It’s better you found it before you drove all the way down here. the service manager said. You Bet! I replied.</p> <p>After that incident – not much. Drop my son in town to visit some friends, came back home, and finished my cleaning, another load of laundry – and sat down to write this blog. Only two days and so much to write. </p> <p>Hope you liked it..</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-44681410962121459872011-06-03T18:17:00.002-05:002011-06-03T18:21:59.265-05:00Slowly moving fast<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">When looking at our life in perspective, we are going through a huge change. From travel to stationary, from RV to a house, from telecommuting to Office work, from being just a couple to raising a child… really big changes in very short amount of time. but when you actually go through the process, the time seem to slow down as freezing the moments. Sometimes I feel I just want to be over with, and be done. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-O2AdaKE1-QQ/Telq7gJXw0I/AAAAAAAAFug/Um3lYce4-Zw/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520034%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Rear View" border="0" height="393" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NwE_p_MaZLs/Telq9YTVs8I/AAAAAAAAFuk/89hjQ-C9Kt8/OrtegaOaks%252520034_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Rear View" width="590" /></a></span><br />
<h3>Electrified Water anyone?</h3><strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Sunday, May 29th, 2011 –</span></strong> It’s a long weekend. Looking back – we didn’t do much, just <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9v3EDFySlrs/TelrCYCjpXI/AAAAAAAAFuo/ya24ZSd6Mpc/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520026%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Ortega Oaks" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xxLW4jPMIDs/TelrDf3zowI/AAAAAAAAFus/VJeP5uCT4hg/OrtegaOaks%252520026_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Oaks" width="256" /></a>took the days slowly. My son playing on the computer and on what used to be my XBOX, and me? I just catching up on the endless house chores. Yesterday – on Saturday we drove to Patti’s Brother who lives about 40 miles north of us. Him and his Fiancé (he just proposed a week ago…) are very much into natural and healthy food. I even got to drink magnetized water and super Spinach that made me even stronger than Popeye. <br />
Discussed some job opportunities, some mystic symbols in modern religion and all the weird stuff you can think of. I enjoy those brain storming talks and discussions, I don’t get to do them so often so it is nice and refreshing every time we meet. After a long visit, we agreed that they will come for Shabbat dinner this coming Friday. Lots of cooking to do ..<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PzXYEwPmkaM/TelrG2365UI/AAAAAAAAFuw/iHbb92jI_54/s1600-h/IMAG0078%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="And the lever stays out" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6qM-BEnT3g4/TelrIMOfjrI/AAAAAAAAFu0/Uzx3bkFUMis/IMAG0078_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="And the lever stays out" width="254" /></a>Monday, May 30th, 2011 –</span></strong> The day did not start right. going to the washroom, I realized that the black tank is full. Half sleeping I went outside to open the valve and empty the tank. After pulling the valve handle, a gush of stinky material rushed through the hose making all kind of gargling noises, and leave a smell that makes no room for mistake. letting you know what you are dealing with. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-muL7f3756J8/TelrLBgrwwI/AAAAAAAAFu4/9yQgZ3OHSR0/s1600-h/IMAG0081%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="It it made no room for error" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mgSOoKRgdyY/TelrMLbv7kI/AAAAAAAAFu8/q4KmCKIgOec/IMAG0081_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="It it made no room for error" width="254" /></a>When the flow finally stopped and probably reduced the RV weight in half, I pushed the valve back in to close it. It went in too easy, and when I released it – woosh it popped back out like a spring. hmmm. pushing again and it pops again. Swish – swosh, Swish Swosh. this valve is playing with me.<br />
Well – it will have to stay open for now.. Will have to call the shop again, they just replaced the valve, and this is the first time I try to use it. They might have installed it wrong. Another unnecessary trip next week.<br />
<h3>From Doom to Great</h3><strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dqoHVV8FW2o/TelrOOOkBsI/AAAAAAAAFvA/uQmjpQLWGfQ/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520021%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OrtegaOaks 021" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D3cRf_g1Fho/TelrPH-tz1I/AAAAAAAAFvE/7u2vLd2_CYo/OrtegaOaks%252520021_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OrtegaOaks 021" width="183" /></a>Tuesday, May 31st, 2011 –</span></strong> A short week starts today. I am not sure if it is the stress buildup or missing Patti, or maybe everything altogether, but I woke up and saw an email from a client, asking to report my time. It was then when I realized that this month I hardly had any billable time. That worried me and shadowed my day, being concerned about all the upcoming expenses and the move. Later that day I heard one of my favorite county songs – ‘Sounds like life to me’. This was the point I decided that I am not going to be too worried about it, and just concentrate on getting more business. Ironically enough, I had a meeting today with a potential customer in San Diego, a meeting that I believe would bring a new customer in the near future. Just be positive! It will be just fine. That has always been my motto, and I just had to be reminded.<br />
I called the RV shop and set an appointment for next week sometime. At least they remembered me, and willing to fix it free of charge!<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Wednesday, June 1st, 2011 –</span></strong> Wow – it is actually June already! This is the last month we are here (I know I said it before, I know) and the last stages of the de-RV-tization process. Tonight I also suppose to meet with my ex, discussing my son’s future.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8rEkMwTnfIc/TelrV9t0eYI/AAAAAAAAFvI/JI_njw71lfg/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520030%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Ortega Oaks RV Park" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CJ8Brpq_Xzg/TelrXDeMHbI/AAAAAAAAFvM/fDjgmrWQr9Y/OrtegaOaks%252520030_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Oaks RV Park" width="256" /></a>The schedule is all messed up today, as my son is going for a field trip with school to Knots Berry Farm , and will not be back till the evening. My daughter has a concert and I have to meet my ex at around 5:30pm. wow. busy day! Stopped at the ATM on the way to school to give my son some cash in his pocket so he can have some fun. came back home to do some laundry, cleaning, and some computer work. <br />
<h3>Welcome to WA</h3><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G2kv8jJ_Wgo/TelrZ3b7cTI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/RwvjVvCvSuQ/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520023%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Ortega Oaks RV Park" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KhZeCVdTVqfY2AHZ4Ncex7x2CbrDRo-AeVEq4HKUf2BFUubsW-OOvEH6EmDtpzqYBnQWRSsvDVoxjx-lk9sCrGpz78CSnwXvsnzzY5eSZYeOsNv8Y31dc8iw5Fg3EnS5bg-ImBjpOKuO/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Ortega Oaks RV Park" width="183" /></a>Patti sent me a message early afternoon – “Call me – it’s urgent”. Patti never uses the word urgent, and I got worried. She wouldn’t answer her phone and looking through my emails I found an email from progressive – “You can view your claim online”. This is not a good sign, I thought. An accident? Something happened to Patti?<br />
After a long wait (of 10 minutes) Patti calls. They broke into her car in the middle of the day in the parking lot of her office. they broke the window for a stupid GPS. The police came right away, and Progressive gave a wonderful service, but I got to think – where are we moving to? I asked Patti, and she said – it is probably a bad luck. It never happened here before and this is considered a very safe area. I don’t know, if it is one in a million why can’t it be a lottery ticket for a change?<br />
<h3>The Meeting</h3>Later in the afternoon I drove back to town for ‘the’ meeting. I really did not have too many hopes from that meeting so I felt I don’t have much to lose. My ex was not surprised, and actually did not say no. We discussed the future of my son, the school, the father figure in his life, and the bottom line was – “I will think about it”. Now the firs reaction could be – hey! not too bad… at least it’s not a no… but knowing my ex, that could go both ways. It could be a honest request for some time to think about it, but it could also be a way to earn some time until I have to leave town, dragging the answer, and after I go just drop it. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5TGvlFTbdSw/TelrdKHOSGI/AAAAAAAAFvY/3MoeL7wvwSw/s1600-h/IMAG0070%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="My daughter's concert (Phone Quality)" border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiODMV1Die1QRE8pHs-RatqlmTTWzm_cTpn5_WoZbLOCUttjwnMKYXtm67dI1kPJa1RjStyfZlHpmwoScLJpmnSfscp1VzGPuQZ3KV6M4Q1vFa62ZxFAzRC_z50JU-fYSumlkkLLMA48e7m/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My daughter's concert (Phone Quality)" width="167" /></a>Knowing that my ex actually knew what I was going to talk about, she had enough time to be prepared for the concept, and learning from past experience, I am not so sure how it will turn out, but I still hope for the good. With all these change I need lots and lots of patience.<br />
I stopped by my daughter’s school to see her play and rushed to pick up my son and drive back home. He was exhausted but full of experiences about this roller coaster and that roller coaster, and couldn’t stop describing how fun it was. The scarier the better! Didn’t take too long before he fell asleep.<br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4z8LaYd0vOY/TelrhPfbs7I/AAAAAAAAFvk/y15ioPHsn24/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520028%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="OrtegaOaks 028" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-t9WPWW-Gb7Y/Telriv4Tq-I/AAAAAAAAFvo/cEX6vt_ocWw/OrtegaOaks%252520028_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OrtegaOaks 028" width="183" /></a>Thursday, June 2nd, 2011 –</span></strong> Life are back to the temporary normal. The daily routine of waking up, making lunch, driving to school, stopping at the grocery store, driving back home, another couple loads of laundry, taking care of Diva, and finally sitting to work for couple hours. Then driving again to school, pick up my son and coming back home. Helping a little with homework, working a little more, cooking dinner, cleaning up… ufff <br />
Patti’s car is back to normal. They actually came to her and fixed the car at her office. That is a great service I must say. We don’t have much bad to say about progressive. We are very happy with them so far. In the meantime Patti has already moved in to the new house and bought the necessities to start living. Some groceries, some cleaning supplies, an air mattress… and a TV. Necessities <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Mr5CwIwN5Jo/TelrjTLJIxI/AAAAAAAAFvs/8EdFONtcbdk/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /> (Easy to say for someone who rarely watch TV, huh?)<br />
I found some time finally to sit down and write the blog, but I don’t have pictures… I will look for something, and try to publish it tonight or tomorrow morning.<br />
Tomorrow is Friday and Patti’s brother and his Fiancé are coming over for Shabbat dinner. What’s on the menu? Can’t tell, They are reading my blog too… I will tell you next post.<br />
So what’s for next week? I hope to get some progress with my ex wife regarding my son. I also hope to schedule movers to move all our stuff from the storage units in MN to WA. After 2 years who knows what condition are those boxes. On Monday they are going to install fast Internet and TV in the WA house, and… whatever comes – comes. Will see.Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.613430253507659 -117.4256596754150333.426711753507661 -117.63445617541504 33.800148753507656 -117.21686317541503tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-74894972677397175052011-05-28T00:37:00.000-05:002011-05-28T01:00:21.543-05:00We got a House<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">After a short house hunt, Patti finally found a house for us. She looked at many houses, some too far, some too expensive, and some too fancy for us. This one looks like just what we needed, although I haven’t seen it myself yet. So slowly things are moving on.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jwg5KzN8sn8/TeCM87fvnOI/AAAAAAAAFtM/OS9P9nhkezI/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%252520001%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtegaOaks 001" border="0" alt="OrtegaOaks 001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-K7aD4rnvb9g/TeCNMAX2aUI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/MOVfEZdgtG8/OrtegaOaks%252520001_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="403"></a></font></p> <h3>The Hunt</h3> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oekyy8hI9Tw/TeCNd869mkI/AAAAAAAAFtU/LtvM3DrAnb4/s1600-h/OrtgaOaks%252520010%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtgaOaks 010" border="0" alt="OrtgaOaks 010" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lyuzFa14-IY/TeCNrOPRACI/AAAAAAAAFtY/9KPeg_07zGo/OrtgaOaks%252520010_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>Tuesday, May 24th, 2011 – </strong></font>The house rental market is very active in the WA area., Houses are added and rented all the time, and you need to be constantly online to find and get the house you want. Our main sources are Trulia, Craig List and Zest, and the process is tedious. Patti or I are finding the houses and sending the links to each other. I try to keep a Google map updated with all the options and the details too. Then we comment on the houses and evaluate them. One is too far, and another is too much in the city. Another one was in a bad school area… When we find a house we think could work for us, we try to call and set an appointment. In Craig list many times they don’t even leave a phone, so you have to send an email and wait.</p> <h3>The Catch</h3> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fSdGWCJC5Bk/TeCOOr427DI/AAAAAAAAFtc/LbGqPFZC1tA/s1600-h/MillCreekHouse%252520006%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Our back yard from the deck" border="0" alt="Our back yard from the deck" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o0cCOHpminw/TeCOZP88fxI/AAAAAAAAFtg/iarQdu8xI0g/MillCreekHouse%252520006_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="257" height="202"></a>So today, Patti scheduled a house showing after work. She meets with the owner at the house and while still there she calls me – We got a place! she said. Great – I said, what is it? Oh, you will like it. I already gave her the check! She is Jewish, and she also have a Pom, we became friends… Congratulation to us, I said.</p> <p>The house sits on 3/4 acre lot, bordering with public land, so no neighbors from the back. There is ample parking for the RV, the car the boat and the guests. Wrap around deck, a finished basement, doesn’t sound too bad.</p> <h2>At the Concert</h2> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZPEkr3vo9QY/TeCOiiDOb2I/AAAAAAAAFtk/O72CHyUtAF8/s1600-h/Concert%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Concert 005" border="0" alt="Concert 005" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlkwUFScV9xY-CQSxC3-J2xydfsxY_N3p0xQeVnmxSlPI_tVjZP0T6cvyt5pGs4JImVrLcy7A72K-PSKx7B5cQaM9lblkJpzFjDlSZ2FfMljW0a31c7xORIQdXzkQvEoxkCfSLrY-O0yJ/?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>Thursday, May 26th, 2011 – </strong></font>Today my son had a concert at school. The original plan was to meet with his mom before the concert, and regroup at the school. I asked my son to go to a friend’s house until the concert so I can meet with his mom, and so he arranged. I moved some work meeting planned for the day, and just before I was ready to drive and meet his mom (yeah – My Ex), she calls and cancels. Why ain’t I surprised? I think it is very disrespectful to other people’s time, but oh well. That’s is just another reason why we are not together, right? Being used to ever changing plans – I make some phone calls, and drive to meet my son at the mall. Quick fast food dinner, and going to the concert. Well, this is not Simon and Garfunkel Live in Central Park, but it was nice to see my sons plays the sax in a band, and he actually did pretty good.</p> <h2>Closing another week</h2> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-V8jATVfe3J8/TeCOvVNoj6I/AAAAAAAAFt0/8BUedkUnlWg/s1600-h/OrtgaOaks%252520014%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtgaOaks 014" border="0" alt="OrtgaOaks 014" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D1rL6yFX4cs/TeCO9HQpAFI/AAAAAAAAFt4/9vpFogyOHPE/OrtgaOaks%252520014_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="256"></a>Friday, May 27th, 2011 –</strong></font> So here comes Friday again. Although Patti is not with us, I decided to keep the tradition of Shabbat dinner, so I am trying to do my best. We stopped at the grocery store on the way from school and got some groceries. </p> <p>So here is what I did:</p> <p>On a big frying pan I fried some onions and mushrooms. I cut three big chicken breast to squares about 2” in size (Yes – I pounded it first), and added it to the pan. I also chopped around 10 garlic cloves and added them as well. Added some paprika, salt and pepper and little bit of yellow curry. Let it cook for a while but before it was ready I added 1.5 cups of red wine, reduced to low heat and let it simmer.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EbJhkybmVtE/TeCPIJfOXmI/AAAAAAAAFt8/VMjUdaIMEyQ/s1600-h/OrtgaOaks%252520008%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtgaOaks 008" border="0" alt="OrtgaOaks 008" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vjuKmjEPKhg/TeCPMf6pytI/AAAAAAAAFuA/Go7VXv5MyZY/OrtgaOaks%252520008_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="330" height="236"></a>In an oven pan I cut potatoes, carrots, yams, onions and acorn squash into big pieces. Added some garlic oil, Soy sauce fresh cilantro, honey and some salt. Preheated the over to 400, and put the pan in the oven. This is going to sit there around 90 minutes so except from mixing it from time to time, this dish is on its way.</p> <p>Last, I threw some corn on the cob into some boiling water and let that cook. </p> <p>I covered the chicken and stir it every few minutes. Just before it was ready, I added some parmesan cheese, and corn starch (not too much – just to give it some volume).</p> <p>I was proud of myself – pretty nifty huh?</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uJlq7R1MTXo/TeCPUGAShOI/AAAAAAAAFuE/ROsOeqiATJc/s1600-h/OrtgaOaks%252520022%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="OrtgaOaks 022" border="0" alt="OrtgaOaks 022" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--uK9kzqDdU8/TeCPY2k9x8I/AAAAAAAAFuI/HlB0DWxfVj0/OrtgaOaks%252520022_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>My son is not picky at all, when it comes to food, and appreciates good taste, so that helps.</p> <p>We actually found real challah bread this time, so we did the blessing and all the 9 yards. That was nice. The only thing that is missing here now is Patti. Still about 4 weeks to go. </p> <p>Slowly but surely we are stepping towards de-RV-tization. We already have a house. Tomorrow Patti is going to buy some essentials and move in. She did mention that the handyman still comes to make some fixes. His name is Bruce, and he is good lookin’ she said <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sG7INvYGguc/TeCPb4NLX-I/AAAAAAAAFuM/2d7PZVHq5BY/wlEmoticon-smile%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800"></p> <p>Hope to meet finally with my son’s mom next week some time, and get that taken care of.</p> <p>Oh and I forgot to mention – most of the pictures in this post are from today. I realized I don’t have photos to show, so I took my camera (the old one. The new one is in repair, they want $250 for this stupid plastic door, imagine that!!) and captures some pictures around the RV.</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-14459271013945856952011-05-23T00:30:00.000-05:002011-05-23T00:44:05.482-05:00Countdown begun<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">Countdown for what? Great Question. I think the countdown to life, to normal life. Our life are now in the air, not here and not there. That is how we crossed from the ‘other’[ side to RV Life, and that is how we are crossing back. But how is it a countdown? In a countdown you start from a number and actually counting down. But we? we don’t know when this will end, so we don’t have a starting point to count down from. Better pick a high number.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzjRTAsDI/AAAAAAAAFr4/Vf2zDrvVwKE/s1600-h/SoCal%20040%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Juan Trail" border="0" alt="San Juan Trail" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzkmA1hQI/AAAAAAAAFr8/MEj2OcmwrrM/SoCal%20040_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="610" height="405"></a></p> <h3>The Separation</h3> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzmaZt8DI/AAAAAAAAFsA/juZ0d3ti6g4/s1600-h/SoCal%20008%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Juan Trail" border="0" alt="San Juan Trail" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzndaJO3I/AAAAAAAAFsE/WFpS3fZT6SM/SoCal%20008_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Wednesday, May 18th, 2011 –</font></strong> It was early morning when the shuttle to the airport called my cell waiting by the hotel entrance. I found this shuttle on the internet for $28 from the hotel to the airport, saving Patti a long commute in heavy Seattle morning traffic.I almost missed the shuttle, can’t end the Good-Bye. We are not going to see each other now for 6 weeks. This is a LOT for us, used to be together 24/7/365.</p> <p>The driver is a retired air force engineer who knows a lot about a lot. He did not stop talking to his audience – three half sleeping passengers, all the way to the airport, and we just sat there and nodded our heads uh huh. Among all the other things he talked about – he mentioned some propane addition to a diesel truck that according to him will double the power and cut in half gas consumption. I think he mention mds.com but I never even bother to check.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzpQSrUhI/AAAAAAAAFsI/u6nkv2KRisE/s1600-h/SoCal%20005%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="My son and Diva" border="0" alt="My son and Diva" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzqzU5o0I/AAAAAAAAFsM/hO5iP0h4yys/SoCal%20005_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>It was a long day that started at 3:00am and ended late at night. I arrived Orange County airport around 1:30pm. I picked up a rental car and drove to the other side of the Ortega highway over the mountain to get my truck (still in the shop – remember?). The dealership paid for the rental, but with the money I left there – I should be super VIP… The truck was ready for me, clean and shiny. Drove back again to the other side to pick up my son. From there, we stopped at the mall for some fast food, and went to see award ceremony at my daughter’s school. She received an excellence award for her math studies. Great Job!</p> <p>It was already after 7:00pm at that time, when we started to head back home to the RV. Yes it is still home for me. I have no other place to call home yet. Exhausted I fell asleep just to wake up the next morning back to the old routine of my son’s school.</p> <h2>First Weekend Alone</h2> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdnzxGaoqaI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/GLzdiNW1FlE/s1600-h/SoCal%20016%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Juan trail" border="0" alt="San Juan trail" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnzx7Zd3mI/AAAAAAAAFsU/p0oFn4PgiYk/SoCal%20016_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Friday, My 20th, 2011 –</font></strong> Yesterday passed by pretty fast. I dropped my son at school in the morning, drove to the boarding kennel and picked up Diva. From there, stopped at the grocery store and drove back home. I am so backed up with work that I don’t know how to catch up. With that – I know that Patti was left alone, and has to actually go to work every day, and she is having hard time looking for a house. So between work, cooking, taking my son to school taking care of Diva, cleaning the RV, laundry, blah blah blah… I had to find some time to look for a house too.But about this – in a little bit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnzz4JQZiI/AAAAAAAAFsY/5w7kGnoO1xQ/s1600-h/SoCal%20009%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="My son found a geocache" border="0" alt="My son found a geocache" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz0452ggI/AAAAAAAAFsc/FcWAed0VqYU/SoCal%20009_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Friday is here, and I don’t know where to get Challah for Shabbat, or even how to cook a nice meal. I know the basics, but I did not cook for ions! So after I dropped my son, I stopped at the grocery store (Pavilions) looking for Challah. I settled for Italian bread. Oh well. I sat and worked all morning, until I had to go and pick up my son from school. When we came back I tried to make some dinner. I ended up frying Spanish rice with garlic and Cabbage Cutting chicken breast marinated with Paprika, garlic soy and honey. I cut some fresh vegetables, and I think overall I did fine. Nothing to compare to Patti’s fabulous dinners, but enough to bless the wine and the bread. I did not have Patti here to light the candles for us… and I already miss her!</p> <p>Shortly after dinner I simply fell to bed. No alarm tomorrow, Yeah!!</p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz3FWZsaI/AAAAAAAAFsg/eRt0q_8ocZ8/s1600-h/SoCal%20032%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The hollow tree" border="0" alt="The hollow tree" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz4Q5ITkI/AAAAAAAAFsk/w3LVR3Yq9Ds/SoCal%20032_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Sunday, May 22nd, 2011 –</font></strong> Weekend is almost over. I am tired again and going to head to bed shortly, Tomorrow is an early morning again 5:30am. Saturday I worked pretty much all day, and looked for houses.</p> <h2>House Hunting</h2> <p>The house on the Island turned out to be a disappointment. The layout of the house was very awkward for us, and everybody around us is warning about the Ferry traffic. So this idea fell. Patti was supposed to meet a realtor on Saturday, but he called and said that both houses he wanted to show are already under contract. One house left to see – and this is a nice property over 5.5 acres 5 minutes away from Patti’s office. The views from the house are magnificent – overlooking the ocean and the islands. Sounds very promising.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz6hP0WkI/AAAAAAAAFso/wcZRcGReZ7k/s1600-h/SoCal%20029%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Juan Trail" border="0" alt="San Juan Trail" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz7t8UPwI/AAAAAAAAFss/4HAE6kcr9R4/SoCal%20029_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>Today, Patti met the realtor at the house. It was noon when she met her, and just after 1:00pm I am getting a Skype from Patti. I saw the house, she said. There are 2 drawbacks though. First, the landlord has a relative who lives in the guest unit that is attached to the house, and takes care of the lawn… I did not even want to hear the second one. We are looking for 5.5 acres secluded private property, to have a stranger that lives with us on the same property? That is so irritating! What do they think? Why didn’t they disclose it earlier? That was a huge disappointment for me. I don’t want to live with someone under my nose on a huge property. I can rent an apartment if I want neighbors. It is cheaper!</p> <p>So back to searching. The house on the horizon now, is a nice property about 10 miles away from Patti’s office on about an acre. The problem is that it is a little too pricey, so we will have to see is they will be willing to go down.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdnz9RMgeQI/AAAAAAAAFsw/H8TVyWcua-g/s1600-h/househunt%5B3%5D.gif"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Our house hunting map" border="0" alt="Our house hunting map" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdn0GN9DhCI/AAAAAAAAFs0/7distBeiuqU/househunt_thumb%5B1%5D.gif?imgmax=800" width="573" height="480"></a></p> <p>Late afternoon I took a short hike with my son. I have to move around! So I took the 3 mile hike right across the street, and actually found 2 Geocaches on the way. It was my son who found the first one. I did the second… All the pictures in this blog are actually from today’s hike. Which remind me – on the way I broke my camera too. Yes the new one. The memory card compartment door flipped open and broke. I will take it with me tomorrow, see if it could be fixed.</p> <p>Came back home. cooked a fast dinner (spaghetti with meatballs and red sauce that Patti left for us in the freezer) sat to write this blog, and I am just about ready to go to bed.</p> <p>And oh – one last thing, Patti does not feel so well this weekend. She has high fever and upset stomach. But you know Patti (well, I do) she will go to work as long as she breathes. extremely loyal and dedicated person. I knew who to choose. I hope she feels better.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhochi9dSHHmCjseeLMy66MsnmPGgKqVBXchXNm2rAaW-NDtTzaxMZWP_u0ArXfQZMNT_xbj9RgXnUhqHZtN1d7KoIFkpwrdQm2VUY8wGR3y1LJThLHtVzyVZpCjIV5gitRY-qOqSIe2boo/s1600-h/SoCal%20050%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="San Juan Trail" border="0" alt="San Juan Trail" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tdn0JDZYimI/AAAAAAAAFs8/m9UBBrs6inE/SoCal%20050_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="581" height="386"></a></p> <p>So what about this coming week? I plan to get a hold of my ex-wife and try to approach her with the idea of having my son move in with me. See how she reacts. I hope and pray it will go smooth. </p> <p>So if you came so far with us – stay tuned. It is never boring here (although sometimes it seems so).</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-38406903208775925512011-05-16T17:23:00.000-05:002011-05-16T17:33:00.397-05:00Stationization<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">One more week behind. Today is Patti’s first day at work (Good Luck Patti), and the second day in WA. Already looking for a house. Events are moving fast, so fast that sometimes it is hard to notice. With all the changes that are coming on our way we start feeling some bumps too, trying to smooth it up with air ride. Hope nothing breaks on the way.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmAjOFntI/AAAAAAAAFq0/Ti1Za7R0XDs/s1600-h/IMAG0001%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0001" border="0" alt="IMAG0001" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmBCmJzYI/AAAAAAAAFq4/pb3CRZMvE_k/IMAG0001_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="605" height="362"></a></p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4">Monday, May 16th, 2011 – </font></strong>This week just flew by. I can’t believe it is Monday again… Patti just went today to her first at work, but wait – I am jumping too fast.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmBnUuJtI/AAAAAAAAFq8/3TiYmQN29wQ/s1600-h/IMAG0034%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Truck in the shop" border="0" alt="Truck in the shop" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmCO4S47I/AAAAAAAAFrA/N_Pf8Aecai8/IMAG0034_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>Remember last week, we took the truck to the dealership, and ended up with a new car? Well, the truck is still there waiting for some parts, and of course they found some additional stuff in it, god know what it is, but I know how much… Ouch.. The week flew by, but not without bumps. I think this is the hardest part of all. Adjusting to all those changes does take a toll, and this is not a nice part in the process, but I guess it is a part we have to go through, and although I know eventually we will be fine – it is not pleasant time sometime. As Patti says – it is a wishful thinking to expect so many things to change and go just smooth.</p> <h2>North Along West</h2> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmCu8uN5I/AAAAAAAAFrE/yIIO9Gq1TnU/s1600-h/IMAG0006%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Driving through Seatle" border="0" alt="Driving through Seatle" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmDAl6ksI/AAAAAAAAFrI/y_0gpQNuqJc/IMAG0006_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>I was supposed to be in Florida in a business trip this weekend, but a last minute cancellation changed my plans again (yeah I know). So instead of flying to FL, I decided to join Patti to the other corner of our country. On Friday morning I dropped my son at school before our trip, picked up Patti and started our journey. We drove over 700 miles on Friday mostly on hwy 5, which was pretty boring until we approached North California. The views of the mountains rivers and lakes are simply breathtaking, even if you just drive on the interstate. We could not help it, and stopped couple times to take a picture or two. I wish I had my big camera with me, but sometimes all you got is your phone… (See the top picture)</p> <p>We stopped just north of Ashland, OR for the night. Not sure what it is in Ashland but the prices there are outrageous! $80/night for a no-stars roadside inn. We had to drive 30 miles north to find $55 Days Inn…</p> <h2>Houses for Rent</h2> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmDsfzaRI/AAAAAAAAFrM/MXSMWLm4N-U/s1600-h/IMAG0017%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The Island House" border="0" alt="The Island House" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmEEtfmOI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/iOZ1ekaGQpA/IMAG0017_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>Saturday drive was very nice – driving through the natural beauty of OR and WA, and we arrived early afternoon to our hotel. We had already some properties we found online, so we went to see those houses before the end of the day. Sunday was just about the same routine – we looked for more rental properties and drove around. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmEkPvO0I/AAAAAAAAFrU/eD33lDUXZ0A/s1600-h/a%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Meticulus House" border="0" alt="Meticulus House" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmFEEfl9I/AAAAAAAAFrY/rsmuXv8_Zhg/a_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="188"></a>Actually 3 properties made the cut so far – one is on a narrow strip of land, just short of an acre, on a lake (with a private dock), the other one is a meticulous house and yard on 0.75 acre at the perimeter of town, and the last one was a real country setting on an island, sitting on 9 acres of mature forest.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmFaOONUI/AAAAAAAAFrc/RXMhy8FuXgA/s1600-h/a%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The Lake House" border="0" alt="The Lake House" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmGCbiIXI/AAAAAAAAFrg/evaZfhWkhrg/a_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="257" height="203"></a>The problem is this – the meticulous house is on the higher range of our budget and probably not available (contract pending). The lake house – is in a ‘so so’ school district, and the one on the island has a transportation problem, as the only way to get in and out of the island is by Ferry, which could be a problem in rush hour.</p> <p>So we might still go back to the drawing board and continue looking around. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmGgnLYEI/AAAAAAAAFrk/6lJLwg3chdM/s1600-h/IMAG0031%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Patti's new Office" border="0" alt="Patti's new Office" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TdGmG1h7xoI/AAAAAAAAFro/IGuHcO12Xkg/IMAG0031_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>I took Patti this morning to the office. She was a little nervous, but excited to start her new job. It has been a while since Patti dressed up and went to work (well, for a week there in KS, was actually the last time). Shortly Patti will be back and I am anxious to know how was her day, but that will probably be in the next post..</p> <p>Believe it or now (This is aimed to myself), things are actually moving and changing!</p> <p>By tomorrow I hope to find the house of choice, in between my work that is piling up. Wednesday I will fly back to CA, hopefully get my truck back and wait impatiently to join Patti back here in WA, after school is over. </p> <p>How was Patti’s first day? Did we find our dream house? How was the trip back to CA? All in the next post of… The TraveLiving Journey!</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-74093934171211877772011-05-09T11:51:00.000-05:002011-05-09T12:07:08.240-05:00Settle Process Begun<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">Time flies by, day by day and yet another week is behind us. The process of moving back to the ‘other’ side seems closer than ever. As a matter of fact, I think we have already started it. Many of our friends are planning to become Full Time RVers, and are in some stage of the process of preparing for the big day. Funny, as we are planning the cross back.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgdixMp3iI/AAAAAAAAFp0/Pylgeeai6t4/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20016%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Diva at the park" border="0" alt="Diva at the park" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcgdo0RmjMI/AAAAAAAAFp4/WIO1LCc5G20/Ortega%20Oaks%20016_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="593" height="393"></a></font></p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong>Thursday, May 5th, 2011 – </strong></font>This week moved fast. I don’t even know why… I just woke up, drove, slept, worked, looked at the calendar, and the week was gone. It was so fast I didn’t even had a chance to stop and look around, take a breath or plan. The tense we had earlier this week was replaced by happier and brighter days and I hope it would stay that way.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcgd6rAHOjI/AAAAAAAAFp8/pjgE3bj_ygw/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20004%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Views in our RV Park" border="0" alt="Views in our RV Park" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgeATj1H4I/AAAAAAAAFqA/F8HvDmT57FQ/Ortega%20Oaks%20004_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Patti is getting nervous a little as her first day at work is getting closer. This W/E she is going to WA while I fly to FL to the SAP user Conference for few days. My son will be with his mom for those few days until I come back, and start counting the days he finishes school and I can join Patti. It is not going to be easy on us, starting so many new things without being beside each other. In this 6 weeks time Patti will have to find a new house for us, arrange the move of what’s left from our household from MN to WA and start the WA life all by herself. This is not going to be easy at all, not because she is not capable of doing it, but because we are so used doing everything together. We are also supporting and complementing each other in so many different ways and in time that so many things are evolving – we need each other, for emotional support if nothing else. </p> <p>From developing new daily routines to raising a child to managing household – it is all coming together at the same time. I wish I could be beside Patti so we could support each other and be part of the change with her by my side.</p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgeHgvLllI/AAAAAAAAFqE/mxxq1ECeIzY/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20001%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Fresh Challah for Shabbat" border="0" alt="Fresh Challah for Shabbat" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoim1Qk7T9dS4-A2bq9A53HS_5bcCfvSMEr5kUe8iYmoSvj9FIUGOTeuktJ7oyXCBuexoutBFwAwS3s3vly51wlC9MuMNsf8omJA_o0Ns82RAdi6TpXneQ3-rWJOovem5GjmVVK1ExDVW/?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>Friday, May 6th, 2011 –</strong></font> Weekend is here. It is mother’s day W/E but we don’t have anything special planned. Patti is preparing for the last Shabbat we are doing together before she leaves. Fresh Challah bread in the over, Patti;s magical mashed potatoes, and baked chicken. Patti lights the candles and blesses our house, and after a short prayer for the Shabbat we have our precious time together. These are the moments of family magic. Precious! After dinner we sat together and watched couple movies (I love comedies, comedies and some time I watch comedies as well. Hey, if you want to watch Drama – you don’t need movies for that).</p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgeTY1lLII/AAAAAAAAFqM/8HLr5yGa3N0/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20027%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A local cat is checking the new car" border="0" alt="A local cat is checking the new car" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgeZGxHQBI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/fXyACH4FGck/Ortega%20Oaks%20027_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>Saturday, May 6th, 2011 –</font></strong> Yesterday morning we had an appointment at the car dealership to get the truck brakes serviced. They make some grinding noise and probably needs to be replaced. We drove down to the dealership in Elsinore Lake and dropped the truck. When they took the wheels out, it turned out that the whole rotors need to be replaced, and that is going to take some time (and probably some money too). While waiting we took a walk outside and looked around. Patti noticed a nice car she liked in the used car lot. Well – we are going to have to buy a new car sooner or later so that Patti can drive to work, so might as well… I came back to the waiting area and did some research on similar cars on the internet. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgepzEDEYI/AAAAAAAAFqU/IJKpVOin_eY/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20007%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Views in our RV Park" border="0" alt="Views in our RV Park" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcgeuu0wuWI/AAAAAAAAFqY/gEVQLxdowUc/Ortega%20Oaks%20007_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>(We had our laptops with us, and they have free WiFi). It looked like the price they were asking was a little too high, so I dropped the idea. A little later we went out again, and walked by the car. Just to get a closer look, thinking we may buy this car somewhere else later. A salesman came over (of course) and asked if we liked the car. I said – It is a nice car, but $5,000 too high! So, without thinking twice the guy said – if I will take the price down $5,000 will you get it? Yes, I said. </p> <p>I will make a long story short – Patti got a new car! This is the first major move we made towards settling down. So Patti will not fly, but drive her new shiny car (well, it is used, but still shiny) to WA instead.</p> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcge0dG2nRI/AAAAAAAAFqc/jQI8DfREDR4/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20036%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ortega Oaks 036" border="0" alt="Harvey and Moe" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcge56LVkqI/AAAAAAAAFqg/FhqQQnhKDeo/Ortega%20Oaks%20036_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="256"></a>Sunday, May 7th, 2011 –</font></strong> I was planning on sleeping in today. As you already know I have early mornings during the week now, so the W/E nights are those I am letting myself enjoy those extra morning hours under the blanket. 8:00am – the phone rang. My first thought was – oh no… Here goes my day, but – it turns out it was Patti’s brother Girlfriend. They want to come and visit us today! This is perfect timing because this is the last W/E Patti is here, and we love her brother and his girlfriend. They also have Moe (Out Boxer we gave them remember?) so he is coming too!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tcge_4jUgyI/AAAAAAAAFqk/QyupfX-SSBU/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20035%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Patti - The Kitchen Master" border="0" alt="Patti - The Kitchen Master" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgfEAlyuKI/AAAAAAAAFqo/LiaHky2cYyE/Ortega%20Oaks%20035_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>Harvey is a very smart man, and very talented computer guru himself, so whenever he comes over – we have plenty of subjects to talk about. But that is not all – Harvey and Allison are planning to go full timing, and they are very serious about it, so we got a chance to share all what we have leaned in the last two years about buying and owning an RV, and about the Full Time life style. As we were giving them the tour and talking about how it is to live on wheels, we realized how passionate we are about our life and how much we enjoy it. So here is another proof that we really love our life, and we will hit the road again – as soon as we can.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgfJZD4txI/AAAAAAAAFqs/OgulLj8h3U8/s1600-h/Ortega%20Oaks%20030%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A cat visitor in our site" border="0" alt="A cat visitor in our site" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TcgfNSwDfvI/AAAAAAAAFqw/QmSFzWEW-ew/Ortega%20Oaks%20030_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>So there – if you are not sure about this life style, let me tell you – it is the best thing you can do. If you love exploring, love nature and adventure, you would love this life style. If you plan just being in one place or two – get a house. </p> <p>So what’s next? This week will be the last week in the current settings. Things will start changing this W/E when Patti leaves, and we will just have to wait and see how it goes. we would love it if you stayed and follow us too.</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-59471575498553107422011-05-01T20:44:00.001-05:002011-05-01T20:44:17.201-05:00Am I a Full Timer<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">Technically, we live in an RV, so we could say we are still full time RVing, but are we? What makes us RVers and not just ‘living in a mobile home’? I am not 100% sure I know the answer, and maybe it is just a stage in the process of resuming different ‘normal’ life, at least for a while.</font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC"></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tb4MYC0oB9I/AAAAAAAAFpU/Zb9OmR6ihDk/s1600-h/Waterfalls%20065%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Waterfalls 065" border="0" alt="Waterfalls 065" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tb4MZWrobOI/AAAAAAAAFpY/eyue4XJdZsQ/Waterfalls%20065_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="599" height="399"></a><strong><font color="#008000" size="4">Friday, April 29th, 2011 –</font></strong> Another month is ending, and spring is in the air. This is the time when we were supposed to leave CA and start our AK journey, the trip I was waiting for so much. But we are not. We are still here in CA, and it looks like I am going to be here until school is over for the year, sometime at the end of June.</p> <p>In the meantime, I wake up every morning at 5:30am or so, getting ready to get my son to school. After I drop him at school I am usually waiting at a local Starbucks and work there.I pick up my son and come back home at around 3:00pm. The rest of the day I continue to work, until bed time. </p> <p>My time with Patti is limited before she starts her new job in WA – just two weeks before she lives and I have to stay here for over a month by myself. (Well, with my son, but without a partner).</p> <p>Weekend got a whole new meaning now – the w/e nights are the sleep-in nights that I miss <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tb4MZrkw4fI/AAAAAAAAFpc/2l4hpZhoOQ0/wlEmoticon-smile2.png?imgmax=800"> and not having to drive around so much away from home most of the day. Even when this temporary period will be over – I am going to be by myself most of the day, while Patti is at work and my son at school.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tb4MbaLKuvI/AAAAAAAAFpg/Qep-9gpmJow/s1600-h/IMAG0020%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Preparing for Shabbat" border="0" alt="Preparing for Shabbat" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/Tb4McKayWBI/AAAAAAAAFpk/NUDv_KIxumY/IMAG0020_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="254" height="167"></a>So when I come to think about it – we are no longer full timing… We are back to normal (and somewhat boring I must say) way of life, except we are still living an an RV, until we will find a house in WA. Those big changes sure bring some frustrations and tense home, and we try to learn to deal with them one day at the time, hour by hour, minute by minute.</p> <p>Does it worth it? I sure hope so… but days will tell. I am very happy for Patti that she got a new job. I think she will be much happier. I am also very excited to have the opportunity to raise my son, and be part of his life. </p> <p>Still many more changes are coming in the next couple months – the new job starts, the move to WA and the summer plans. I might have to change the title of the blog although the little words bellow did not change that much….<br><font color="#008000">”<font face="Comic Sans MS">Unexpected events in our personal life, at work and in the economy started a sequence of events that ended up with us becoming a 'Full-Time RVers'</font></font>, <font color="#0000ff">and Go back to Normal again.</font></p> <p>I can tell you this – After experiencing both types of life styles– I can assure you that the dream of living on the road – is as fulfilling and exciting as it sounds. Still Rver at heart, and I know I will go back to RVing sooner or later (You are probably going to hear that a lot from me)</p> <p>So keep following us, as we are exploring life with and without the RV. making to switch back and forth.</p> <p>No pictures this post – we actually did not go anywhere…busy busy busy. Hope to have a more exciting post next time!</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-91411583094379018712011-04-25T00:16:00.001-05:002011-04-25T01:01:01.413-05:00And it keeps coming<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">Life events are falling our way all the time, and things are changing. It seem that everything falls into place, we just need to adopt adjust and embrace. Like always – we try to do it with a smile and with open mind. So what’s now?</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUHzBsSz_I/AAAAAAAAFnI/KJg-5uSv1hk/s1600-h/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20063%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Bear Canyon Loop Trail" border="0" height="404" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUH3EtVeYI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/nyi_5AHk3R4/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20063_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Bear Canyon Loop Trail" width="608" /></a><br />
<h3>Interesting Weekend</h3><h2>T.G.I.F</h2><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong>Friday, April 22nd, 2011 – </strong></span><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUH-LE51HI/AAAAAAAAFnY/kaoP3b8YkqE/s1600-h/Shabbat%20007%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Preparing the Shabbat Table" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIEQWco8I/AAAAAAAAFnc/-KEaAQIEv-0/Shabbat%20007_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Preparing the Shabbat Table" width="256" /></a>Since we started preparing Shabbat Dinners, I am always excited and looking forward for Friday Night. Sit together all the family, Patti lights the candles and blesses our house, there is always good smell of the delicious dishes Patti makes, and a fresh Challah on the table. Everyday Patti makes meals – some of them are just amazing, but always there is something special about the Friday Dinner. This Friday I will make “Pigs in the Blanket”, Patti announced – and so she did. Delicious Cabbage leaves rolled and filled with meat and spices, in a tangy sweet red sauce. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIJLWT4ZI/AAAAAAAAFng/SkkxZihYfPY/s1600-h/Shabbat%20010%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="My son in gamin position" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIPwe50oI/AAAAAAAAFnk/KD284RJCUsQ/Shabbat%20010_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son in gamin position" width="256" /></a>After a good meal, we are always so full, that there is nothing else we can do but sit down and relax. My son who came back ‘home’ since the Sedder adopted a gaming position on the couch, Patti is on the recliner, and I am on my office chair. Precious family time. Sometime we will watch a movie together, or watch my son plays one of his games on the XBOX (yes – he claimed ownership on this device, as you can imagine).<br />
<h2>Paradise in my back yard</h2><strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;">Saturday, April 23rd, 2011 – </span></strong>Patti still does not feel 100% yet as she is going through the flare, but she is getting better. Looks like the flare is going away, although all night she had an unexplained high fever. We wanted to go for a hike today, but thought it would be better to let Patti rest, so it was only my son and I. <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIYWan13I/AAAAAAAAFno/NZ4YDL57hSc/s1600-h/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20037%5B8%5D.jpg"><img alt="Bear Canyon Loop Trail" border="0" height="400" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIdMFPFII/AAAAAAAAFns/c1XukUceock/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20037_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Bear Canyon Loop Trail" width="602" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIisjgTmI/AAAAAAAAFnw/aJXoBd4qUwk/s1600-h/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20035%5B4%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="BearCanyonLoopTrail 035" border="0" height="300" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUIn0O3KYI/AAAAAAAAFn0/yUWlr2CGdfQ/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20035_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="BearCanyonLoopTrail 035" width="199" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1y1Wuzes40mKQcCFBqQ-EtsVMt4zC2MgqozUmqLPzF_d6xesFIsq_znpr94BDbt0NTt9W1DnPDZFOYE8IqlZ2kHVfEHe5bRRnrfZNtEMQdixsetgepSacuKED70CUhBprSt58PvgL3Fb/s1600-h/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20069%5B4%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="BearCanyonLoopTrail 069" border="0" height="305" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMWcm46uI/AAAAAAAAFoQ/qX1vZFuY3sA/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20069_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="BearCanyonLoopTrail 069" width="202" /></a>One of the places I had in mind was actually across the street from the campground, right at the Candy Store on Ortega Highway. There is a sign for couple of trailheads – San Juan Loop and Bear Canyon trail, so we did not even use the truck today. We simply crossed the street and followed the trail signs, We were surprised to find a beautiful waterfall and a nice river along the 2.5 mile trail.Amazing what you can find just few steps away from home.<br />
<br clear="all" /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMcbMtrwI/AAAAAAAAFoU/ivxusab4TnI/s1600-h/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20081%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="BearCanyonLoopTrail 081" border="0" height="408" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMhMhYQ2I/AAAAAAAAFoY/_hbZA7lYyyo/BearCanyonLoopTrail%20081_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="BearCanyonLoopTrail 081" width="614" /></a><br />
<h2>Surprise Surprise</h2>So how do you end a peaceful Saturday and starts a wonderful Sunday? Let me give you a hint… Remember some time ago I mentioned that we have contacted an old time colleague and a friend from WA? Remember that there a was a chance that Patti will get a full time job? Well you must already figured it out…<br />
We almost lost any hope with this job opportunity, but Patti got a phone call today. Yes – she got the job. What is that mean? I am not sure yet. It means that we are moving to WA, and will probably rent a house there. We will try to get my ex-wife agree and let my son come and live with us. Still many things to figure out but it is not bad after all. If we need to settle down and stay some place for my son, we might as well have a full time job. At least one of us. And what is better than a job with someone you already know, in a job that fits your expertise, and with a boss that supports telecommuting…<br />
So like always – we will see how it goes, and take it as it comes. and it is all good. <br />
<h2>Easter Sunday</h2><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMll-JdbI/AAAAAAAAFoc/QwHiuk6WlZI/s1600-h/Easter%20001%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Easter Basket" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMpoFdO5I/AAAAAAAAFog/ywSTS9lc2NQ/Easter%20001_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Easter Basket" width="256" /></a>Patti feels much better today. That is a good start for today and actually a great start for any day!<br />
I got some Easter Candy and groceries and Patti is making a nice dinner for us. Feels great to have a holiday spirit at home, especially when my son with us, and we are not alone. It brings back the feeling of a family <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUMt8LOSGI/AAAAAAAAFok/iET8ztV1IQ4/wlEmoticon-smile%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUM1t9M_QI/AAAAAAAAFoo/wyIZUnQGL64/s1600-h/Easter%20002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Easter Dinner" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUM6dpeD1I/AAAAAAAAFos/TAh-Mapr4QQ/Easter%20002_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Easter Dinner" width="256" /></a>So what’s on the menu today? Devilled Eggs, Cornish Hens with stuffing, mashed potatoes, Squash, and for dessert – bi-color chocolate mouse with strawberries. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUM_T4XzSI/AAAAAAAAFow/qU4Swg3kjmM/s1600-h/Easter%20008%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Easter 008" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbUNC3M2kdI/AAAAAAAAFo0/9JfJBoTVhQY/Easter%20008_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Easter 008" width="182" /></a><br />
So… In the last month we had so much happenings, and the last three days are just a logical additions – Time is losing its meaning.. Feels like a year! We are still Full Timers, and still live in our RV, although we know things will change soon. One thing we are very confident – we love RVing, and no matter what happens – we would love to continue what we have started.<br />
So keep on following us as our life are changing shape and form. Isn’t it what makes life interesting?Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com5Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.615431644173178 -117.4255309293823233.42871314417318 -117.63432742938232 33.802150144173176 -117.21673442938231tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-21746230023737467062011-04-21T14:05:00.001-05:002011-04-21T15:19:58.185-05:00Life has a Plan of its own<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">When you plan not to plan, everything goes by the plan. We try to embrace life as it comes and as it flows, but even with this approach, unexpected life changing events are happening to us all the time.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywdSlt3WJ_sM4itzHm8DDZRqvScSZFocuA79fxnqLbSZewCE5nhJPyqdPOJsoQS6TuGKj1yzAjKpEK6iGX7DmtQRTbnPX8QLEFFWNQXdjiXGgayOHVlya2I0nzcKNUbYOmjFiBptHMVGs/s1600-h/KamikazaBird%20010%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Our suicidal bird" border="0" height="403" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCGmB93D7I/AAAAAAAAFmU/tcaOohbw6m4/KamikazaBird%20010_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Our suicidal bird" width="605" /></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"></span><br />
<h3>Practical Move</h3><strong><span style="color: green;">Thursday, April 21st, 2011 </span></strong>- It was Last Wednesday when I received a phone call from my son – “Can you come and pick me up?” he asked. “Sure, I said, I am on the way! That was the beginning of the move. <br />
My son and I were always in contact, but not as near as I wanted it to be. His mom and I went through a bitter divorce, and it was not easy to keep in touch., as I had always the feeling that the kids are detached and repressed. This time around it was very different. My son opened up to me and we got closer. Much closer.<br />
So since last Wednesday he is with me here, in the RV. This is a big change for all of us. I wake up at 5:30 every morning (yes I said five thirty) preparing lunch and drive my son to school – 30 minutes away. I then go to Starbucks and work from there until 2:00pm when I pick him up and drive back home. But this is just one example – there are so many things that change when another person comes to live with you, especially in a very limited space like an RV. Overall – I am extremely happy to be with my son, but this is not a long term solution. Something will have to change.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCG7R35uKI/AAAAAAAAFmY/4yguxHe8d9A/s1600-h/Shabbat%20002%5B11%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Fresh cake for Shabbat" border="0" height="198" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCHDl--NRI/AAAAAAAAFmc/Vh6tck7fbOM/Shabbat%20002_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Fresh cake for Shabbat" width="257" /></a>I have no idea at this moment where this leads. I don’t think that his mom will let him live with me, even though it might be his choice and the best thing for him. <br />
Our planned trip to AK is now not a for-sure thing anymore. We might do it with my son during his summer break, or might not do it at all. It is possible that he may change his mind, and we will go as planned after all. And after that – this is one big question mark at the moment. The best that could happen is that my son will move in with me and his mother will let me have custody and move to a different state. But this is a wishful thinking. Keep on dreaming Motty…<br />
<h2>Busy busy busy</h2>Projects are picking up again, but my time is much more limited, and with the early mornings and late nights I have hard time staying awake, in focus and productive. Patti did not feel good at all last week. She went through a bad flair that just now started to fade away, but this tied her up to the point she could hardly move. The hike we planned for the W/E was cancelled and we pretty much stayed home. <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCHTgCYa7I/AAAAAAAAFmg/30jjXm3pMAs/s1600-h/PassoverDinner%20005%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="My son and I at the Sedder table" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCHwmHBITI/AAAAAAAAFmk/VDlG4h-bMhc/PassoverDinner%20005_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son and I at the Sedder table" width="256" /></a>The stress level started picking up on Tuesday. The original plan was to drive all three of us in the morning, let Patti work in the city while I go to the Dr. (Physical) and go from there to the Sedder, but since Patti did not feel so well, plans were changed. I drop my son at school in the morning went to my appointment and picked him up just to drive back, get dressed real fast and drive all the way back again to Aliso Viejo, where the Passover Dinner (The Sedder) was (about it in a sec).<br />
Then on Wednesday I woke up again very early, drove to school and back, got the RV ready to move and drove with the RV to the shop. Drop the RV, drop Diva (our Pom) at the groomer, found a place for Patti to work (A nice coffee shop with Internet) and drove all the way to pick up my son (over an hour away). When I got there, I found out that his mom convinced him to stay for the night at home, so again – driving all the way back by myself to the shop, hooking up the RV and driving back to the campground.<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCIEvny4DI/AAAAAAAAFmo/XzfdDIXWikw/s1600-h/KamikazaBird%20008%5B8%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="This top bird's boyfriend" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCISceWZ7I/AAAAAAAAFms/t8cxLxN7W-k/KamikazaBird%20008_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="This top bird's boyfriend" width="183" /></a>While all this is happening – I had to deal with urgent issues at work, paying and handling the RV and answering endless number of phones in between. Very stressful day…<br />
So how was the sedder? This is a nice reform congregation (Beth El) in Aliso Viejo, CA. We were surprised to find out that the both the Rabbi and the Cantor were female. Nothing is wrong with that (IMHO) but this is the first time for me to see that. The evening itself was interesting, we met some locals and had a great evening. Patti and my son enjoyed it too, although he would not admit to it. Did I say he is 13? <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TbCIZPCJ0OI/AAAAAAAAFmw/LrvL_Imjdk8/wlEmoticon-smile%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /><br />
Earlier that day, at the Dr office, I was informed that I have to change my life style. With high blood pressure and being overweight – this is not a good thing. Not that I did not know that, but this was a reminder. So there… I need to exercise more. I am not sure if I will give up some of my afternoon nap time, my 4 O’Clock tea time, or my noon siesta…<br />
<h2>Looking forward</h2>As much as I try to restrain my eyes, the fog is just too thick. No idea, not even a clue as to what we are going to do in the next few months. It ranges from giving up RVing, settling down somewhere and raising my son, all the way to simply continuing what we have been doing.<br />
I think the key word and our motto is – embrace life!Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com3Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.61505705506822 -117.4246793314209233.428338555068223 -117.63347583142092 33.801775555068218 -117.21588283142091tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-36426068636538983842011-04-11T23:30:00.000-05:002011-04-12T03:32:28.853-05:00Spring has come, Passover is approaching<span style="color: green; font-family: Kristen ITC;">This weekend has passed too fast. After spending the week with my son I had both kids with me for the whole weekend. We decided to repeat the fun we had on the lake and spend yet another day on the water.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLkqNOb9I/AAAAAAAAFkk/u3R-IISC7f8/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20050%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="LakeElsinore 050" border="0" height="403" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLntP_NHI/AAAAAAAAFko/16b3tptsUrk/LakeElsinore%20050_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeElsinore 050" width="605" /></a><br />
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLqgcFMwI/AAAAAAAAFks/XqUlHvcInMc/s1600-h/RVShabbat%20002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Creating the Challah strands" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLsIglu_I/AAAAAAAAFkw/fp8yS5zU4C0/RVShabbat%20002_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Creating the Challah strands" width="256" /></a>Friday, April 8, 2011 –</strong></span> My daughter decided she would like to join us for the weekend. That is a refreshing change – picked her up and came back home for dinner.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLtRT6k9I/AAAAAAAAFk0/iCGncjDWxwA/s1600-h/RVShabbat%20003%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Braded Challah ready for second rise" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLvTLRGJI/AAAAAAAAFk4/o9xedYKU-OU/RVShabbat%20003_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Braded Challah ready for second rise" width="256" /></a>Patti has been working all day to create a wonderful Shabbat dinner. She becomes very proficient in making the Challah bread, and tonight she actually made an old fashion style Challah from six strands. This is the best one she made ever! Moist, soft, sweet – perfect!<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQLyG-HGWI/AAAAAAAAFk8/r041xTpiAcA/s1600-h/RVShabbat%20004%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="The final result" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL0FtOxFI/AAAAAAAAFlA/yqEDEAX7UGg/RVShabbat%20004_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The final result" width="256" /></a>On the menu we also had ground turkey balls in home made BBQ sauce (oh this tangy sweet sauce taste so good with the Challah), mashed potatoes and onion jalapeno quiche. The wonders that Patti can make from basic ingredients are amazing!<br />
The kids loved the food and participated in the dinner. My daughter read the blessing for the day in both Hebrew and English while my son blessed the bread and the wine. That made me so happy and proud! <br />
<span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong>Sunday, April 11th 2011 –</strong></span> Just skipped Saturday. We took the day slow, and relaxed around the RV. watching movies playing games and surfing the internet.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL2xecGbI/AAAAAAAAFlE/MNeQ1Q96ZE8/s1600-h/IMAG0008%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Old vs New" border="0" height="167" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL4dUe3PI/AAAAAAAAFlI/Grr_789556s/IMAG0008_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Old vs New" width="254" /></a>We decided to go today the Lake Elsinore again, even though it was a little colder and cloudy. I took my camera with me - practicing in shooting birds again. I am getting more and more used to my new camera which is much bigger than the old one. When I take picture with my older camera it almost feels like a toy in my hands compare to this newer one.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL6mUIGrI/AAAAAAAAFlM/rrQa7FUjq28/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20062%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="LakeElsinore 062" border="0" height="399" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL8IlcjoI/AAAAAAAAFlQ/dO8kO4J7RdM/LakeElsinore%20062_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeElsinore 062" width="598" /></a><br />
Both kids drove the boat and chased birds while I am trying to get some nice shots with the right light, angel and position. Not so easy, but I think I did not too bad. A faster lens could help here, but that is something I will get after my next big project.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQL984uuuI/AAAAAAAAFlU/9s3RKO5GnlA/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20064%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="LakeElsinore 064" border="0" height="385" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQMAHjowlI/AAAAAAAAFlY/_YUxuIhfnFU/LakeElsinore%20064_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeElsinore 064" width="580" /></a><br />
For now I am happy with my new body, and still learning and getting used to it.<br />
<h2>Busy week is coming</h2><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQMCdII8JI/AAAAAAAAFlc/U8sRiwmMMzA/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20046%5B3%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="LakeElsinore 046" border="0" height="160" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TaQMENU2xdI/AAAAAAAAFlg/gyiwW5BsLhY/LakeElsinore%20046_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeElsinore 046" width="240" /></a>Next week is going to be busy. The A/C unit is scheduled to arrive on Wednesday, so we may have our RV fixed. I also plan to take care of my annual physical check while here, and visit the dentist, see if he has anything to say. <br />
I also have couple conference call already planned in weird hours. but more important than anything – Passover dinner is on Monday night. We plan on joining a local congregation like we did last year, so I need to call tomorrow and find a place to go. I hope my some will be able to join us this year.<br />
We also close one full month here in Lake Elsinore. We plan to stay here until the end of the month, and start our journey north along the pacific coast.<br />
Have a great week! and check on us again. Exciting days are coming!Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.615557397647741 -117.4248509927978733.428838897647744 -117.63364749279788 33.802275897647739 -117.21605449279787tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-835999584214990402011-04-07T03:44:00.001-05:002011-04-08T03:53:16.377-05:00The Best Kept Secret in SoCal<span style="color: green; font-family: Kristen ITC;">…shortly after we started our drive the houses and electric wires disappeared, leaving behind any sign of civilization. The narrow single lane road winded into the mountain forest exposing endless views of valleys, stream and pure nature beauty... </span><br />
<span style="color: green; font-family: Kristen ITC;">When reading this description many places may come to mind, but not crowded Southern California. We were surprised too.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: Kristen ITC;"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LFVo54DI/AAAAAAAAFio/zK8tgBtEh7k/s1600-h/Waterfalls%20065%5B8%5D.jpg"><img alt="Almost Heaven - Ortega Hwy" border="0" height="401" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LG8kF1bI/AAAAAAAAFis/Ka7SsTh6xf0/Waterfalls%20065_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Almost Heaven - Ortega Hwy" width="602" /></a></span><br />
<h3>A week with my son</h3><strong><span style="color: #242424; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: green;">Thursday, April 7th, 2011 –</span> </span></strong>Spring break is on! – that means the kids are out of school for the whole week. My son already told me he want to spent every minute he can with me. My daughter, you know… <br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LNFsDWvI/AAAAAAAAFiw/xSvKp-8UHMw/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20007%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="My son is driving the boat on the lake" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LOlZ4kwI/AAAAAAAAFi0/goVC44py7Ko/LakeElsinore%20007_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son is driving the boat on the lake" width="256" /></a>Drove on Friday evening and picked up my son and since then we are together. I just don’t know how to express it, but we are getting closer and closer, and creating a very unique experience together. This is a great feeling.<br />
On Sunday we spent some time at the Game Stop and he got some new games for the XBOX and his computer. That keeps him busy (and happy) when I need to work.<br />
<h2>A day on Lake Elsinore</h2><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LSvauzzI/AAAAAAAAFi4/yz5TcHZvifs/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20028%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Gone fishing" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LUIK5d7I/AAAAAAAAFi8/RwW9Yun5E20/LakeElsinore%20028_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Gone fishing" width="256" /></a>On Monday we decided to spend the day on the lake. We drove down the hill to Lake Elsinore got a fishing pole, and rented a pontoon for the day. We had a blast! Patti showed him all the fishermen ties, and how to bait and I showed him how to run the boat. I think we spent at least 5 hours on the lake laughing swimming fishing and enjoying the views around us.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LXMDqqwI/AAAAAAAAFjA/fancki065Ko/s1600-h/LakeElsinore%20074%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="LakeElsinore 074" border="0" height="394" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LZBi6SsI/AAAAAAAAFjE/XWHlE0jgvjk/LakeElsinore%20074_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LakeElsinore 074" width="592" /></a><br />
<h2>The secret</h2><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LdYdWlUI/AAAAAAAAFjI/XuEMJV5wZTQ/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20005%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Crossing the river" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LenLWYeI/AAAAAAAAFjM/aBrKaFgSbbM/TenajaFalls%20005_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Crossing the river" width="256" /></a>Tuesday flew by. After a day off I had to catch up with some work related issues. On Wednesday we planned to go hiking. I also got a phone call from Oren – a customer of mine (yes – the one from AZ). He is in Irvine and arrived a day early for a training, so we decided to spend the day together.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7Ljcr_XZI/AAAAAAAAFjQ/lhKVdvzrQ4w/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20042%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Pure Nature" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7Lko7KszI/AAAAAAAAFjU/Yy_KEbAOFeA/TenajaFalls%20042_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Pure Nature" width="182" /></a>Our first choice was a bigger state park – Limestone Canyon, just East of Irvine. We drove there and found nothing but farms and security cars who told us to go away. Our second choice was a smaller park south of Mission Viejo, named Thomas Reilly Wilderness park. When we arrived we found a small property surrounded by houses with nothing interesting to explore. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwp3sP_Qox5xEDu0ZXhpf3Dhvk-3UAasS91qiZtbtXMiiN1ru1uBZDYlKeTIimpD5Du5eiaUHfjriFGJ1pPNYx9U3LT8fZcsoIEtDGYI-JI5IIYxFB8cEA33ynTF1Mgq0mJyuDGRAKJDzu/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20058%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="The upper Falls" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LrggBBbI/AAAAAAAAFjc/VuCXsO0JDIs/TenajaFalls%20058_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The upper Falls" width="183" /></a>So when plan A and Plan B are depleted – you got to find plan C. <br />
I remembered that the guy who drove me from the GMC Service facility told me about some nice falls around the area – Teneja falls. The road to the falls starts on Hwy 74 – Ortega Highway, where our campground is. When we took that turn we saw some houses and power lines around us, and I was thinking – no matter where you are, in Southern California (SoCal in short) you will always see some sign of civilization. but I was wrong!<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LweISzYI/AAAAAAAAFjg/OoLFSAh9V-w/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20071%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="TenajaFalls 071" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7LynTYH-I/AAAAAAAAFjk/IXEsQxx_ckM/TenajaFalls%20071_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="TenajaFalls 071" width="256" /></a>just 5 minutes later the road became a narrow gravel road, the houses disappeared even on the adjacent mountains, and so as the power lines structures or anything that resembles human intervention. The only sign that people were here was the road we drove on.<br />
The road was narrow and curvy, two cars would not fit on it and there was no place to turn. One side is the mountain up, and the other side is a cliff down. but for the whole time we drove, over 30 minutes, we did not see any car in either direction. All the other trails we looked at were full, but this place was just empty!<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7L5mE2d2I/AAAAAAAAFjo/YvqWvtZO9ac/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20054%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="TenajaFalls 054" border="0" height="183" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7L6sN0RpI/AAAAAAAAFjs/ZrfmHP6IiG0/TenajaFalls%20054_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="TenajaFalls 054" width="256" /></a>At some point we started hesitating if we are on the right way, but eventually we arrived to the parking lot that had a small sign that said Teneja Falls.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7L-ulunyI/AAAAAAAAFjw/6M93ddwjWB4/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20017%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="TenajaFalls 017" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNiAg2sk90xMPGqrWEW4Y06_wJWG_EEN5DvuMTufIUZTz4Tbb43-Y3yvMtDHtQjvgllgQoVU3ZBJi3hqcKMia5jEBdmP6bbiG3Arv7PUEbLsQL7UmwM9ruGG8yzOY_AbQvwOUUuB63_Ux/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="TenajaFalls 017" width="182" /></a>We parked the car, put the hiking gear on – vest, hat, camera and walking stick and all four of us started our hike on the trail – Oren, My son, Patti and I. After a short distance the trail crossed the river and started climbing up towards the falls. The hike was not too long but the falls were magnificent. This time – no writings on the rocks (Almost.. There were some, but not near as bad). The fall itself was in three separate levels with pool at the foot of each stage. It was just us and the nature and it was so peaceful and nice.<br />
It was unbelievable that we could find such a place in this area, and it was a great ending to a clumsy start. We drive back home, and Patti prepared for us a wonderful dinner – Chicken roulade, and chocolate soufflé for dessert. Can you ask for more?<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7MDVVsnmI/AAAAAAAAFj4/F92YPFJuvKU/s1600-h/TenajaFalls%20095%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="The road to the falls" border="0" height="405" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZ7MFtfjQjI/AAAAAAAAFj8/x_q-lat-9r4/TenajaFalls%20095_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The road to the falls" width="608" /></a>Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.614127839714477 -117.4251943155517833.42740933971448 -117.63399081555178 33.800846339714475 -117.21639781555177tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-30213275647875181902011-04-01T14:24:00.001-05:002011-04-02T15:17:55.636-05:00Sun of a Beach<span style="color: green; font-family: Kristen ITC;">What does the Pacific Coast has to offer, and no other place does? Of course –The pacific Coast! with the warming sun rays of spring, and the beautiful sandy beaches you just can’t get enough, or maybe you can? or even more than enough? find out!</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd5_XwBUwI/AAAAAAAAFg0/Mp2bo6xo6go/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20039%5B7%5D.jpg"><img alt="DanaPoint 039" border="0" height="406" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd6CpAUhhI/AAAAAAAAFg4/KKUSQo1vbVc/DanaPoint%20039_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DanaPoint 039" width="611" /></a><br />
<strong><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd6S06vIuI/AAAAAAAAFg8/LQPSUJH-gQ8/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20002%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Stupid Bird knocking on my window" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd6UUI2uKI/AAAAAAAAFhA/H-I_Sg2fODk/DanaPoint%20002_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Stupid Bird knocking on my window" width="256" /></a>Friday, April 1st – Fool’s Day, 2011 –</span></strong> A whole week just flew by so fast. Didn’t even noticed it was here. Wow how time flies. The temperature started climbing and stayed in the 80’s almost the whole week. And us? hmmm… didn’t do much most of the week. On Monday I tied loose ends from the projects I recently finished. Little things here and there. I also got irritated by a small bird that fell in love with our unit, sitting on the bike and flying into our window non-stop every 20 seconds. The first 50 times it looks cute, but after 378 times, it is starting to get old, noisy and annoying. The bird BTW did not stop to this day. no matter what we do. We can make it go for 10 minutes but the bird comes right back.<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd6a4bdETI/AAAAAAAAFhE/oUqygyHgkDE/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20001%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="The dinner I missed - Drunken Chicken" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd6gR2lvrI/AAAAAAAAFhI/l_kJUZM4DYc/DanaPoint%20001_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The dinner I missed - Drunken Chicken" width="256" /></a>Tuesday was an errands day. Drove to Wal-Mart, stopped again at the bank and back home. Those trips are so time consuming that it is unbelievable, took me almost 5 hours just for those two places. I ate a Pita while I was out but Patti already cooked a great dinner for me. By the time I called and asked her not to cook – it was too late. I am going to have a drunken chicken for lunch tomorrow!<br />
<h2>Phone with Roots.</h2><img align="right" src="http://androinica.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/root.gif" style="display: inline; float: right;" />Since I don’t have too much pressure from work right now, I decided to do something I wanted to do for some time – Root My Android. This is not a simple task, and pretty much you need to start over with your phone, so I waited to the right time. In simple words to ‘root’ the phone means to gain full control over it, and access all the areas of the operating system, including those that were blocked by your carrier. You can then install any software you want, upgrade or disable anything you want and bypass any restriction – like the use of Skype only over WiFi – what a stupid concept…<br />
I started around 7:00pm and by 2:00am I crawled to bed, The phone was finally rooted, but naked with no software installed on it. That would be the start of a 3 days marathon to reinstall everything to the state it was before, with all the improvements that I wanted to achieve. Yeah – my Android is LOADED.<br />
<h2>California Beatches</h2><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd7wAuSEqI/AAAAAAAAFhM/OghRC2QR9p4/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20007%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Capistrano Beach" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd702wYB_I/AAAAAAAAFhQ/puDI2fstDDU/DanaPoint%20007_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Capistrano Beach" width="256" /></a>I seem like I have a typo in the title, but I was not sure which word will describe better this story, so maybe the combination would server the best… But let me start from the beginning. On Thursday the forecast was 86 degrees here in So Cal. that was a perfect opportunity to go and spend the day on the beach. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd73NY02sI/AAAAAAAAFhU/HzTj9yXn1KI/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20088%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Catching the sun" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd78dn1EfI/AAAAAAAAFhY/EllSb0wh6LI/DanaPoint%20088_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Catching the sun" width="256" /></a>We chose the closest beach to us – Capistrano beach by Dana Point, and drove down the hill to the ocean. The beach was not too crowded and we found a nice spot to spread our towels and enjoy the sun. We took a walk along the water line to take some pictures and enjoy the coldness of the ocean water in our feet. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8BZkvEpI/AAAAAAAAFhc/G-co_lHFFiA/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20095%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Beach Tree" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8FWrOtTI/AAAAAAAAFhg/WaCEwo6IR7E/DanaPoint%20095_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Beach Tree" width="182" /></a>At some point, a lady got up and ran towards me as if something happen and she needs some help. Without any apology or explanation she approached me and said – “I hope you are not taking picture of those kids because that is not OK with me.” I was thinking – which star did you fall from, weird lady, and why are you even talking to me? I was just going to say - I will take any picture I want and if you want to hide your kids, leave them at home.<br />
Patti, who was just beside me told her – “No, don’t worry, he is just taking pictures of me”. And we continued our walk. This incident bothered me. How rude? She didn’t even apologize, she acted is if she owns the beach and I am some criminal sex offender who just ran out of jail… <br clear="all" /><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8MFtwyKI/AAAAAAAAFhk/J2UoLsdobV0/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20080%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="A Wave as it breaks" border="0" height="405" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8cKXbO7I/AAAAAAAAFho/7K2IECCHepQ/DanaPoint%20080_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="A Wave as it breaks" width="608" /></a><br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8igKkwRI/AAAAAAAAFhs/jGeGQ9UlPZg/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20011%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="DanaPoint 011" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8oub7aQI/AAAAAAAAFhw/R3zgwnHcV00/DanaPoint%20011_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DanaPoint 011" width="256" /></a>As long as I am here in the US (that is over 15 years), I can’t recall a stranger comes to me and talks like that. Is it a different mentality? a whole different nation? Where am I? What does she think? Is it the beach of the bitch? or maybe she is just the bitch of the beach…<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8zI6QxfI/AAAAAAAAFh0/Da7i2731aJY/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20073%5B8%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="The B__ch of the B__ch" border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaSM-xMSf_vWghaToxo96CqcoT4Rl5CmyCS9d8exFxORrAzumXW1JZZtfLw9-89ZCTNMVyflE0a52fpCuOgF38UPvD_4ZvAId4hfpBTRxsfuM5WGHYX31oZpM2_HMlHOdlTte9q7k52fy/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The B__ch of the B__ch" width="182" /></a>I couldn’t help it. I had to go back. I told Patti – Just wait here a sec, I got to go back there. I turned around, got very close to this lady and took a picture of her. She didn’t even say a word this time. She knew I was pissed, and she probably crossed some lines. That was the smartest move she did. I turned back and continued our great time on the beach.<br />
<h2>When not enough is Too much</h2>Patti loves the ocean. At the whole time she had a smile from ear to ear. Didn’t want to leave. I knew that too much sun is not good for her, nor only because of her Lupus, but also because of her sensitive skin. After 3 hours in the sun I told Patti we got to go.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd8_WYNa3I/AAAAAAAAFh8/5prx2onFeXM/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20099%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Mine is the white one with the Mast " border="0" height="398" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd9DV0SimI/AAAAAAAAFiA/Ec1inwKXByE/DanaPoint%20099_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Mine is the white one with the Mast " width="599" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYhxcULMP3hB20T_5F9NxlM5OxPAsUkNUecuOlFxmpqJSCBc2T_0RvL1ExX6NR228-bkxb_OltoZ-LsEL7nKoxCAccFDLtYdRppB8bGtN0mHpcGzG1L7ycUK3tVu57QDhk1NsVlpf5vX0/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20100%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Great Views, Great Food and Great Company" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd9NCB4VtI/AAAAAAAAFiI/baAyi4ER4M0/DanaPoint%20100_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Great Views, Great Food and Great Company" width="182" /></a>We stopped and had a great dinner at the Dana Point Harbor. Patti is usually very criticizing on what she eats and since she cooks so well, she does not compromise with less than top quality food. This time – she did not stop complimenting the food – she just loved her coconut shrimp, and sea bass in Lobster sauce.That by itself worth every bit of this trip!<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd9SnggLnI/AAAAAAAAFiM/5C0n2VU__sg/s1600-h/DanaPoint%20103%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Typical CA PArking lot - Bently Corvette and Cadillac" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZd9ZdkjXnI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/VDtF0C4z_L4/DanaPoint%20103_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Typical CA PArking lot - Bently Corvette and Cadillac" width="256" /></a>All was great until we got home. then Patti started to feel the sun burn. Her skin was red, especially on her hands and feet. Tons of Aloe Vera did not help. She was hot, de-hydrated got a strong headache and in a very strong pain. She could not even take a shower, she was just miserable I suggested to put some yogurt honey and mint on her skin (if it is already cooked we might as well enhance the flavor) but she refused.<br />
Not sure when did she finally fall asleep but when she woke up this morning it was all much better. The headache was gone, and the pain was much more tolerable. By now, it is all gone.<br />
<h3>Spring break with my son</h3>You guessed right. My daughter didn’t come again. She might join later during the week for couple days. But in the meantime the bond between me and my son is just getting stronger, We are just having great time together. He joined us tonight for the Shabbat dinner and even blessed the wine and the bread, in Hebrew! That was so awesome!<br />
Not sure yet what we are going to do all week, but the most important thing is – we will do it together! So tomorrow morning we will sit together and plan.<br />
I wanted to write something about this campground but I will keep it for next time. Anyways – glad you are with us, following along = Thanks you!Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.613751908712835 -117.4239001463012633.427033408712838 -117.63269664630127 33.800470408712833 -117.21510364630126tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-69032238386285705192011-03-27T03:27:00.001-05:002011-03-28T03:31:12.445-05:00Signs of Spring<span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';">The sun and the rain have chased each other all week long at the top of the Santa Ana mountains here in the Trabuco region. The unusual amount of rain filled the lakes, accelerated the rivers and painted the whole area with green. So this weekend we had to take a bite and taste the great flavors and colors around us.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: green; font-family: 'Kristen ITC';"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBFzZiJA1I/AAAAAAAAFfY/d-pAeQPk_iI/s1600-h/03-27-2011_BearWaterfall%20078_a%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Flowers are popping out (Patti's Picture)" border="0" height="364" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF0XQuEAI/AAAAAAAAFfc/frn-8H6Gvg4/03-27-2011_BearWaterfall%20078_a_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Flowers are popping out (Patti's Picture)" width="604" /></a></span><br />
<h3>Closing the week</h3><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF1PxFqaI/AAAAAAAAFfg/e8D2uzPezQU/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%20013%5B9%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="Shabbat Shalom" border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpTO8ySfesvzNyR7BBPP5HWzrncKlUPc8d2Parj0Icia-TgJ1obawax8Gybsabc4QbhrlUP136cvH_AU7IK2bnJMtZsEg_iNy1TInRWR_5_Z0RseYZsadArMs1BdS3QkfYlcCbyObfbjl/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Shabbat Shalom" width="256" /></a>Friday, March 25th, 2011 –</strong></span> Things are falling into place now. We got our truck fixed, and actually we were told that the extended warranty will cover the valve and most of the A/C unit, so next week we will have to haul our home again to the shop.<br />
Thursday was a shopping and errands day. We stopped at the bank, the post office, and finished with a long visit to a local grocery store (I think Vons). Most of the Wal-Mart stores around here are not Super Centers, so we have a chance to use a ‘normal’ grocery store for a change. There are two main differences that I have noticed – there is much more variety when it comes to food, and it is much more expensive. Not sure if the prices of food are high all over southern CA, or just in this chain store, but its more expensive than what we are used too.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF4TwJu8I/AAAAAAAAFfo/K2oOfSgTNc0/s1600-h/OrtegaOaks%20008%5B8%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="Kiddush for Shabbat" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF5Nv0UJI/AAAAAAAAFfs/MKJBEI-wXmo/OrtegaOaks%20008_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Kiddush for Shabbat" width="256" /></a>Anyways – Patti, although not Jewish, is chipping in and creating a great atmosphere of Shabbat, by preparing special Shabbat dinner for us, and lighting the Shabbat candles.So today Patti has baked fresh Challah and Rosemary Chicken with Mashed potatoes, she lighted the candles as I blessed the Shabbat, the wine and the bread. It does give a great feeling that we like. <br />
<h2>Weekend with my Son </h2><span style="color: green; font-size: medium;"><strong>Sunday, March 27th, 2011 –</strong></span> I drove down to the city to get my kids for the weekend. They could not come on Friday as they had to attend a concert with their mom, but on Saturday they planned to come over. My daughter apologized again saying she has so much homework to do, and as much as she loves me and would love to be with me, she prefers to stay home. I wasn’t happy, but she is old enough to decide and I respect her wish. So I picked up my son and drove back.<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF8eXZeVI/AAAAAAAAFfw/EECUh_jxMfA/s1600-h/OrtegaFalls%20029%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="My son by the falls" border="0" height="401" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBF_UHQyWI/AAAAAAAAFf0/2oGeBB_XQWc/OrtegaFalls%20029_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="My son by the falls" width="604" /></a><br />
I think we have a special bond, the two of us. ?Just getting along so nice. He is a good kid and I do have fun and great time being with him. The rest of Saturday was primarily sitting around and talking and looking at his new computer game (Our XBOX controller getting some attention) but today we woke up and knew we are going to do some hiking! I am waiting for it for 2 weeks now!<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGDcCpGmI/AAAAAAAAFf4/xKB-KhAprrs/s1600-h/OrtegaFalls%20077%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="Woodbridge" border="0" height="398" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGEknMb4I/AAAAAAAAFf8/ulSTPsxuxZo/OrtegaFalls%20077_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Woodbridge" width="599" /></a><br />
After a short discussion we have decided – this is going to be a short hike with a nice view. Short and sweet. That’s easy – just 1.5 miles east from here very close to the road there is a set of cascading falls called Ortega falls. <br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGGF7TPOI/AAAAAAAAFgA/FCXQa6QB6FM/s1600-h/OrtegaFalls%20064%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="OrtegaFalls 064" border="0" height="256" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGG7_KmQI/AAAAAAAAFgE/xilUqQwK0xU/OrtegaFalls%20064_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="OrtegaFalls 064" width="182" /></a><br />
The rocks were slippery and we did not have the right shoes or gear. This is also the first time I am trying to use my new camera in a little more advanced mode than what I am used to. There is no Auto Mode here, or a picture of flower and an runner. Just the P-A-S-M modes. Since most of my photos today were of water, I used Shutter priority, although some picture were taken with aperture priority to control DOF. Just playing a little and learning my new camera. It know it will take me some time for me to learn it, but I have patience and I enjoy it. I also used my new camera bag for the first time today, so I need to get used to it too. I will get better!<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGKOtV6VI/AAAAAAAAFgI/5mqbtG4JMJU/s1600-h/OrtegaFalls%20093%5B5%5D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="ugly graffiti" border="0" height="182" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGK9vtpNI/AAAAAAAAFgM/oFzq7eIXhLI/OrtegaFalls%20093_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="ugly graffiti" width="256" /></a>There was one ugly thing that we saw here, and have never seen before, and that really hurt me – all the rocks around the falls were full with ugly graffiti of stupid people who had to write their name to ruin for everyone else. That’s a shame. <br />
We came back home and had a nice dinner (Slow Cooker Chicken with honey) dropped my son back home and drove back to sit and write this blog. <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGNKEALVI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/SsWu_OMEdpw/s1600-h/OrtegaFalls%20033%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="The upper fall" border="0" height="399" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TZBGO3IApfI/AAAAAAAAFgY/1CZwXeFpL2w/OrtegaFalls%20033_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="The upper fall" width="601" /></a><br />
I must have twisted my arm pretty bad sometime today, because my whole shoulder area hurts pretty bad. That will teach me how Patti feels when she gets a flair. <br />
So that’s it – up until now. Next week we are going to get the unit fixed and probably explore the area some more. as of work, maybe some new projects will come in, as I am pretty much done with most of my current projects. <br />
And for you- thanks for joining the ride. We love it, and hope you do to!Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com1Elsinore Valley, CA, USA33.612876288950943 -117.4259171674804633.426157788950945 -117.63471366748047 33.799594788950941 -117.21712066748046tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8408221314082263415.post-40644355889373141852011-03-24T01:54:00.000-05:002011-03-24T02:17:25.382-05:00Rainy week in SoCal<p><font color="#008000" face="Kristen ITC">It has been rainy most of the week this week here on the San Juan mountains Region. We resumed into maintenance mode, and still not done with it. Typical maintenance week of a fifth wheel RV and Truck, </font></p> <a name='more'></a> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvHiO7LsI/AAAAAAAAFeY/3c8xhIO4tck/s1600-h/Misc%20007%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Misc 007" border="0" alt="Misc 007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvOLgmdOI/AAAAAAAAFec/t84qMGOuhSo/Misc%20007_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="602" height="401"></a></p> <h3>I knew something was wrong</h3> <p><strong><font color="#008000" size="4">Tuesday , March 22th 2011 – </font></strong>When I drove my kids back home on Saturday I already knew something is wrong with my truck. I heard a strange high pitch noise, and the break pedal kind of bounced back when I touched it. The car stopped just fine, there was no warning light, overheating or anything that will indicate that something is wrong except it just didn’t sound right. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvbr5Af3I/AAAAAAAAFeg/JsS2ocw1HIE/s1600-h/Misc%20003%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The good life - Laptop, Game controller and a pop." border="0" alt="The good life - Laptop, Game controller and a pop." align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvhgMzVMI/AAAAAAAAFek/lwbbkxqzZr4/Misc%20003_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>Top that with our RV heater – every time is stopped, because the temp was hot enough, there was a strange bang sound. It worked, but just didn’t sound right. Today – it quit completely. The breaker would jump every time we try to turn it on.</p> <p>So with everything going wrong we decided we need some fixing done. We found an RV service not so far and scheduled a visit.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvqZ-Rb5I/AAAAAAAAFeo/4IFdUb99fqI/s1600-h/Misc%20003%5B11%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A visitor at the park" border="0" alt="A visitor at the park" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrvv60W-jI/AAAAAAAAFes/FgFuKIW8Ucw/Misc%20003_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="182"></a>When we drove down the hill today the RPM showed over 5,000. is was at the very end of the red scale. I knew the engine was not running at 5,000 RPM but the high pitch sound was there too. We dropped the RV at the service place, and called GMC dealership in Lake Elsinore. I must say that we were very hesitant since the place had very bad reviews. </p> <p>When we started the truck to drive to the dealership, the sound simple disappeared, and all came to normal. All week it had this sound and now – it is acting perfectly fine…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrv1joPy1I/AAAAAAAAFew/26K-9Ui3Ils/s1600-h/Misc%20017%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Landing Position" border="0" alt="Landing Position" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrv7sqQ6PI/AAAAAAAAFe0/IcP436Qlh0M/Misc%20017_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="256" height="183"></a>When we got to the service department we were surprised bu extremely nice crew. They accepted us immediately even without scheduling, started working on the truck immediately and even offered me a private office where I could sit and work while waiting for the truck. It wasn’t easy to find a problem that does not exist, but based on the clues I gave they found some oil leak from some high pressure lines. It was too late in the day to fix it, so they topped the oil and set an appointment for the next day.</p> <p>In the meantime we drove back to the RV Service place just to find out that the extended warranty guys could not give an answer, and promised an answer within 24 hours. Not so happy with them. Don’t even know their name – some insurance from Chicago that we were convinced to buy when we got our Escalade in Michigan last year.</p> <p>So with the same broken truck and RV we drove back to the campground at the top of the hill.</p> <p><font color="#008000" size="4"><strong>Wednesday, March 23rd, 2011 –</strong></font> Got at 7:30am today, as I had to be by 8:30am at the GMC dealership. After a fast coffee I was on the way. I got there just in time, and they were waiting for me. I did not have to wait even a minute and a shuttle was already on the way to take me back to the campground, some 16 miles away. </p> <p>I am now in closing edges stage as most of my projects are done. That gives less pressure but worries me at the same time. Got to get a new project in line fast! </p> <p>Around 2:00pm they called from the dealership – the truck was ready. They sent the shuttle again to pick me up, and the truck was waiting for me clean and shiny. in 5 minutes I was already on m way back. No idea why did they have bad reviews – I was very happy!</p> <p>The extended warranty guys didn’t call. I hope they will approve it by tomorrow. I need the electric heating A/C unit fixed and the grey water tank valve replaced (it is not sealing anymore). Will update you how it goes.</p> <p>I just need to get some good long term project that will allow us to work without pressure and get some steady income, and that would be great!</p> <p>Otherwise, we did not go out much this week. It is rainy almost everyday. I do hope to get out this Weekend as it looks like there are nice places around here, and I need some fresh air!</p> <p>Some weeks are more exciting than others, but overall – no complaints. Part of RV life <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-left-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_PpOf8WLHrFg/TYrv_GSIGDI/AAAAAAAAFe4/OmKvdAHc8LY/wlEmoticon-smile%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800"></p> <p>So like always – I would like to take the time and thank you for following us along, hope you like it.</p> Mottyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10905245750531969188noreply@blogger.com2