{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1", "title": "Road Trip on Marshmallow Ranch", "icon": "https://avatars.micro.blog/avatars/2026/36/1962506.jpg", "home_page_url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/", "feed_url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/feed.json", "items": [ { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2025/04/13/a-great-start-to-the.html", "title": "A Great Start to the Day", "content_html": "\n
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Thank you, Jesus for getting us here safely!

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I couldn’t believe it…we both slept twelve hours Friday night! We were exhausted. The sound of the rain on the roof was the lullaby we needed. We got on the road about 10:00 yesterday morning and drove till we found a Cracker Barrel near the interstate (I-40, exit 141). We received a Gift Card from there for Christmas so we decided to do that rather than go through the drive through at some fast food joint. It was a great idea! The staff were excellent, the restaurant was clean, the food was wonderful, and even though the place was packed, we were in and out in a timely fashion. We’ll definitely come back here and we may camp in their parking lot for the night instead of stopping at a campground. We had a leisurely breakfast and were ready to face the day.

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There were places coming through the Raleigh Durham area where the interstate was six lanes wide. Apparently the speed limit is just a mere suggestion to these folks because they sped around me like I was standing still. Many delivered the “one finger salute” on their way by. The most excitement we saw on the way here was coming out of the Walmart and being confronted by FIVE police cars and a lot of yelling. I had no idea what was going on, but we beat a hasty retreat to the truck.

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We arrived at the campground at a little after 6:00. The wind was blowing around 15mph so the wind chill was around 45°. Pretty chilly when you’re trying to get a camper unhooked and set up. There were some food items we could have brought in, but by the time we got everything done, we decided a ham sandwich and chips was good enough along with a hot beverage.

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My sister/friend in Florida told me about the pink moon last night but we couldn’t see it for the clouds. Besides, by 8:45 we were in bed for the night. It’s nice we don’t have to go anywhere or do anything today. We can watch church online. And a lazy day knitting will be nice. I brought some lovely purple yarn that Gail gave me last winter to start a pair of socks.

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No rain on the roof last night…just gusty wind.

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🚙💨

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“The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.”” ‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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Gratitude Journal Today, I am grateful for safe travels and my wonderful traveling partner. He’s a good navigator and we enjoy a feisty repartee along the way.
\n\n", "date_published": "2025-04-13T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2025/04/13/a-great-start-to-the.html", "tags": ["Travel","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2025/04/12/parking-on-the-freeway.html", "title": "Parking on the Freeway", "content_html": "\n
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I forgot…April is the beginning of Orange Cone Season. Ugh. We lost at least an hour or two in stop and go traffic. (OK…maybe is was twenty minutes. I don’t remember. 🙄) My brain was zoned out. We stopped at the brand new rest area on the West Virginia Turnpike. Hokey smokes…they spent a gazillionty-teen dollars on the new Tamarack Travel Plaza. Located adjacent to the Tamarack Marketplace which broke ground on August 8, 1994.

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Forward-thinking Governor Gaston Caperton had a vision. He wanted something more than the usual bathroom and vending machine rest area. He envisioned a place that would house artisans from around the state. An open area in the center of the building houses designated areas for artists and artisans to seek their wares. Surrounding the shopping are walls and halls for gallery exhibits. (The quilts and art are to die for!)

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As the population of Appalachia ages out, fewer folks were stepping up and learning the skills of our forefathers and mothers. The Tamarack Marketplace offers educational opportunities. The works are juried to “insure [sic] quality and authenticity of WV-made items.” The food service is provided by The Greenbrier Hotel. It’s definitely a must-see place to visit should you be driving the I-77 corridor through our fine state.

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Anyway, back to the new Tamarack Travel Plaza. The official Grand Opening was December 30th with the Governor and other officials present to usher in the $60M state-of-the-art facility. The building houses the only Popeye’s Chicken in Southern WV. Starbuck’s and Wendy’s are also housed in the building. There is a convenience store area on one end and at the other end, a small Tamarack Marketplace shop offers just a few of the beautiful items from the larger venue nearby. It has the usual fare of travel plazas…fuel and restrooms. FANCY restrooms. While the minimalist design didn’t appeal to me, the sinks were over the top. I’ve never seen anything like them. The faucet is a modern “wash bar” design. On the left end is the hand soap dispenser, in the middle the the water faucet, and to the right is the blower-style hand dryer. All motion-sensor, and resting over an angled sink with a slit for a drain at the back. I wanted to stay in there a play till my hands got pruny, but Mr. FixIt was waiting for me so I finished up and went out to meet him. (Pictures: Before and After, credit to sources on the internet.)

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We drove through a lot of rain on the way and Fancy Gap didn’t disappoint with its pea soup fog. We only saw the evidence on one accident…a semi on its side in the median near Wytheville. It didn’t look like anyone was injured. I was so happy to pull into the campground last night. Oak Hollow Family Campground is beautiful and right off the interstate without sounding like a war zone. It was a fun drive. The further south we went, the more beautiful it became. The flowering trees are majestic. Our dogwood trees got bit by the hard freezes of the last couple of weeks, but they escaped that fate farther south. They look all the world like dotted Swiss fabric lying here and there against a black and new spring green backdrop. The azaleas are in bloom as are the magnolias and camellias. Stunning!

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We arrived in plenty of time to have a light meal and stretch out on our comfy memory foam mattresses for a well deserved rest. Too late for a nap, but restful just as well. Today we’ll enjoy a nice breakfast and head to the Outer Banks. Tonight we’ll go to sleep to the sound of the ocean waves! 

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We don’t have to be in quite the hurry today as we were yesterday. If you aren’t checked in at the campground by 7:00pm at Oak Hollow, they lock the gates and you flat out do not get in. That kinda puts a fire under you. But it’s a totally different deal at the beach. That means we don’t have to be on the road quite so early. Which is fine by me!

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🚙💨

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“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.”   ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

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***Gratitude Journal***  Today I am grateful for safe travels…and that I didn’t scare Mr. FixIt more than once. Maybe twice. 😘
\n\n", "date_published": "2025-04-12T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2025/04/12/parking-on-the-freeway.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Marriage","Art"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/10/26/ridin-with-jesus.html", "title": "Ridin’ With Jesus", "content_html": "\n
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I told you all I was going to drive the route that takes you through the tunnel that goes under the Chesapeake Bay and I was a little nervous about it. Well, I pulled off at the last exit before the tunnel and stopped at the biggest Walmart I have ever seen to visit the ladies room. When I pulled back out on the road, I said a quick prayer and asked Jesus to come ride along with me. I opened my eyes and started laughing when I read the license plate on the car in front of me.

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“Well played, Jesus! Well played, indeed.”

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I realized there really wasn’t anything to worry about. After all, the Eisenhower Tunnel is longer and I go through that without a thought. And what about the Moffat Tunnel on the train, right? Now, THAT’S a tunnel!

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I drove for three hours or so but since I’d been up since 4:30, I pulled into one of my favorite rest areas and climbed in the camper for a two hour nap.

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Just past Charlotte, the traffic on I-64 came to a complete stop. For nine miles we just crawled along. I got to Waynesboro and pulled into a Cracker Barrel parking lot at dusk and slipped into one of the RV spots. I went in and ordered a salad and came out to talk with the gals camping next to me. They were the BEST and we had so much fun talking. There’s a bar nearby that’s playing loud music but that won’t last forever!

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I’ll be home tonight!!!

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-10-26T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/10/26/ridin-with-jesus.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/06/26/almost-ready.html", "title": "Almost Ready!", "content_html": "\n
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I stripped the beds and washed the linens yesterday. I cooked up two pounds of breakfast sausage to put in the freezer. One pound in patties for breakfasts and the other half pound for biscuits and gravy on the road. I went through the kitchen boxes and took out what we really don’t need and added some things we did. Our son and daughter-in-law came out last night with the grandpup to make sure he knew what obstacles to look for in the yard when they mow. Keys have been dispensed. Mail has been held. Kitty has been taken care of. Now the only thing to do is pack the truck, hook up the camper, and hit the road tomorrow. I’ll want to get a pretty early start so we can get to our campsite at a decent hour. I love ending the driving day by 3-4:00 at the latest. That way we can have a rest, fix a nice supper, and head to bed for a good night’s sleep before doing it all over again. We’ll be spending four nights on the road in each direction. Three of those nights will be at campgrounds we’ve stopped at before and loved and one for a new adventure. We take a more northerly route going out, and more southerly coming back. I’d love to have a trip where we could just meander on the two lanes and take as much time as we’d like, but this is not one of those trips. We have things that are more pressing this go round.

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I’m just going to drop in with “picture postcards” till we get there and get settled. 

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Who’s up for a ROAD TRIP???

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🚙

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““You shall not oppress a sojourner. You know the heart of a sojourner, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt.”

\nExodus 23:9 ESV\n
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#Travel, #RoadTrip, #Camping

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-06-26T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/06/26/almost-ready.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/05/18/a-rainy-day-in-the.html", "title": "A Rainy Day in the Woods", "content_html": "\n
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When I woke up early yesterday morning, I looked out the window and it was raining cats and dogs. Of course, I could HEAR it, but it was grey and dismal out there, so I turned over and slept for three more hours! It rained hard off and on most of the day so Gail stayed cozied up in her camper reading and I stayed in mine, deep cleaning and organizing all the cabinets. 

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That stinkin’ mouse shredded half my toilet paper roll! And you know, once you know you have a mouse and you catch it, you HAVE to clean everything in sight! I used half a container of Clorox wipes and this place is neat as a pin. In my purging of the cabinets, I came across the five dish towels I bought on the Outer Banks last year. They were made from an old vintage tablecloth. I decided to use one for a dishcloth and the other four to protect the fabric on the recliners. 

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The two white quilts I bought to go on the twin beds in the camper came yesterday along with the king-size top sheet I bought for backing fabric for the curtains. I’ll have to finish that project after we get back from the next camping trip. We leave tomorrow for four days over toward the Eastern Panhandle to visit family.

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When I was trying to decide on bedspreads for the camper beds, I saw something really pretty. It was made to look vintage….white on the top with a wide yellow border. The vintage tablecloths have some yellow in them and I’d love to play on that. But those bedspreads were over $100 each. Instead, I ordered two of these yellow reproduction vintage tablecloths. I’m going to sew them on one side of the white bedspread so they’ll be reversible. All for less than ONE of the fancier bedspreads would have cost.

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So, the mouse is gone and I haven’t heard another. However…now there are ANTS! Ugh. I’m setting out ant traps. But the worst thing is…that leak we had down at the beach has reappeared. We had really really hard rains yesterday and I think we’re getting water in the camper from a leak somewhere. With campers, it’s not a matter of IF you’ll get a leak. It’s a matter of WHEN you’ll get a leak. We just need to get that taken care of quickly because water kills a camper. I have mitigated it somewhat with an absorbable gel bag that soaks up spills, but that’s just a temporary fix.

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I heard from a reader yesterday that I should not use DCon because the poisoned rodents can in turn poison predatory birds like owls. I only used it the one night, then caught the offending little booger in another kind of trap by DCon. So, I just wanted you all to know I’ll not be poisoning mice anymore. I’ll use this.

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Gail and I did get a little knitting time in last evening. Then we ran over to her house to pick up the box that arrived for me at her house. Once we got back, we were both tired and called it a night. I got to sit in the cleaned and organized camper and sip a hot beverage before bed. I’ll head home this afternoon, strip the beds and wash the linens. Then I can get the clean sheets back on the beds by nightfall. I won’t even unhook the camper when I get home since we’re leaving in the morning. Mr. FixIt is playing in a golf tournament with Mr. FixIt Jr., their youngest, and her boyfriend today so I’m sure I’ll be home before he is.

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I had a really relaxing time this trip…just what I needed.

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Who’s up for another road trip?!?!

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🌸☀️🌸

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“In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.”

\nPsalms 127:2 NIV\n
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#Camping, #Grace, #RoadTrip

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-05-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/05/18/a-rainy-day-in-the.html", "tags": ["Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/05/06/the-looooong-drive-home.html", "title": "The L-o-o-o-o-o-ng Drive Home", "content_html": "\n
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Our peonies will bloom soon!

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Mr. FixIt’s alarm rang exactly five minutes after we woke up. Ohhhh, it was hard to drag myself out of bed, knowing this would bring us home and this trip would be officially put to bed. But, duty called and home beckoned and we were soon tidied up and ready to roll. We stopped for gas and a breakfast sandwich and were on the road by 8:30-9:00.

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It rained off and on which makes travel with a camper slower. You can’t drive in cruise control with wet roads. And you have to drive 5-10 miles lower than the speed limit. We made steady progress. We stopped a couple of times for potty and coffee breaks. It always feels good to get out and stretch your legs.

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We finally got to I-77 and turned north, only to be confronted with an information sign saying all lanes were blocked up ahead due to a crash and we would be asked to take a detour at Exit 19. That meant we actually drove 19 miles into Virginia before the you-know-what hit the fan. Several miles before the detour, we sat in totally stopped traffic for quite some time. We inched and inched forward till we finally made the exit and followed the dense line of traffic. 

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There were no directions to tell us where to go so we all played Pied Piper and drove in single file to who knows where. There really wasn’t anyplace to get off the road till we found ourselves WAY out in the country on a one-and-a-half lane blacktop. There at the tippy top of a hill with the most magnificent views sat a volunteer fire department. We pulled into the lot and I reached for the Rand McNally Atlas to get my bearings. By this time we had circled around nearly to the on-ramp at Exit 24…two miles past the site of the accident. By the time, the road was clear and the detour took us at least three hours…to go five miles forward from where we got off the interstate.

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Mr. FixIt finally found a local news story about the accident. It happened up on Fancy Gap…a mountain in the Blue Ridge that is commonly socked in by fog. It was super foggy yesterday morning…even when we were coming up the mountain. The accident involved four tractor trailers and three passenger vehicles. According to the news report, only one person was taken to the hospital by one of the firemen just to get checked out. By the time the rescue crews got to site of the accident, everyone was out of their vehicles. From the looks of the cars and trucks, I am amazed no one was seriously injured or killed. Thank you, God!

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The rest of the trip was pretty uneventful. Rain, sun, repeat. We got home in time for Mr. FixIt to jump in the shower and head BACK into town for his bowling banquet. That was the entire purpose of coming back home yesterday…he didn’t want to miss his friends at the banquet. I unhooked the camper, pulled out enough food to make a ham, egg, and cheese tortilla and fruit for dessert and I was totally done for. I went inside and took my shower then came back out to the camper to cool off and write my post for today.

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I did get a quick walkabout to see what’s grown since we left. the answer is…EVERYTHING! OMGosh! The whole field looks like it needs brush-hogged. I don't see a whole lot that is impressive in the pollinator garden. There is a lot of Dead Nettle and Buttercups blooming. Daisies will be opening soon then I'll find sweet little wildflowers amongst the grasses. if it were left up to me, I'd leave the whole field alone. but, I'm not sure I can convince Mr. FixIt. We'll see.

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This morning is knitting group then a trip to town to pick up prescriptions and stock up the fridge. I have no idea when we'll be able to fit mowing in. It's supposed to rain for the next ten days! I hope you've been well. I'll be back tomorrow to tell you more stories and such. After I catch my breath!

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🌸🌼🌸

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“My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.”

\nIsaiah 32:18 NIV\n
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#SafeTravels, #Home, #Tired

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-05-06T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/05/06/the-looooong-drive-home.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Road Trip","Pollinator Garden"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/05/05/were-halfway-home.html", "title": "We’re Halfway Home", "content_html": "\n
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Well, we got to the “be-here-by-7:30-or-sleep-in-the-parking-lot” campground at 4:00. Plenty of time to make nice to the nice lady at the desk and ask for a more level site. She accommodated us and in no time at all, we had Grace tucked in between the big girls! Doesn’t she look so tiny??? We are actually one site away from a view of the lake and if it weren’t for that big building on wheels to the left there, we’d wake up with a gorgeous view. That’s ok…I don’t care. I was just really excited to get out of the truck and close my eyes for a few minutes.

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We drove into rain around Raleigh-Durham. It was fairly light but people were driving like maniacs and I am sure I ticked them off driving a few miles under the speed limit. That’s ok…I don’t care. I basically stayed to the right and let them move on. I will say, there is some warped sense of satisfaction when someone passes you going 90 and a few miles ahead, they’re pulled over to the side of the road talking with the friendly person with the blue lights on top of their car. Karma is something, isn’t it?

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I really wasn’t hungry. I cooked us a couple big breakfast burritos before we took off yesterday morning. Then in the early afternoon, we stopped at Bojangles. I love being in the south. The restaurant was packed and we were the only white people in there. I would imagine there are people who might be frightened or uncomfortable in that situation, but we were met with a roomful of smiling faces and friendly greetings. People are people in our eyes and really…we’ve never met a stranger!

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I bought the pulled pork sandwich special but could only eat one so Mr. FixIt had the second one for supper last night. I got up to fix it for him and noticed water on the floor. That is something you do not want to see in a camper. Water kills campers. I took the facing off the area where the water seemed to be coming from and I didn’t find a real source. And there wasn’t a LOT of water…just a little trickle. I had Mr. Fixit turn off the city water to see if that stopped it. (It did!) Then I laid down a desiccant water absorber bag to draw up any water that may continue to come out from under the wall. With a camper, it’s not a case of IF it will spring a leak. It’s WHEN. Because they all do at some point. We’ll sleuth it out when we get home.

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Our site was fairly quiet. The big rigs DO make a lot more noise because they have more mechanical processes going on all the time. We were just happy to chill out and I looked forward to my evening snack of yogurt, granola, fresh fruit and a good night’s sleep. We’ll be back home tonight!

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☔️

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”Then they went to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal and said to him and the Israelites, “We have come from a distant country; make a treaty with us.”“

\nJoshua 9:6 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2024-05-05T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/05/05/were-halfway-home.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2024/04/25/road-trippin.html", "title": "Road Trippin’!!!", "content_html": "\n
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Oh, the work getting ready for this trip was SO much more than I envisioned this time last week! I said I was going to be super organized this time. As my friend Marion said…God giggles. After going to sleep at 2:00, I woke up yesterday morning at 6:00 to get the day started. The camper was piled with tools, sawdust, trash, and the bedding from the queen sized bed, so my first order of the day was to clean it out so I’d have the space to stock the stuff we really needed to take. 

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I went in the house at 7:00 and Mr. FixIt was up getting himself ready. We didn’t pack the truck the night before like we usually do because my sweet husband was indulging my hair-brained idea of accomplishing a camper remodel in five days. He’s a saint! This camping trip isn’t our first rodeo and overall, you take the same things each time. I suggested we just keep all the non perishables in the camper over the winter and save all the lugging in and out of the basement. Then, our little house on wheels will be ready at a moment’s notice to head wherever our hearts desire.

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By the time we got everything loaded up and hitched the camper, it was going on noon. We hadn’t taken time to eat were starved so we stopped in town for gas and the Cracker Barrel by the highway for a very quick breakfast. We headed south on the interstate and we hadn’t gotten to Charleston when I was so sleepy, my head was nodding. I knew I needed to stretch out and take a nap and Mr. FixIt looked about as ragged as I did. So we pulled into a big Lowe’s parking lot and took a two hour nap! We never dreamed we would sleep like that. We could have slept for several more hours except for one thing….

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The alarm on the truck went off. No one was near us…it just started blaring. I turned it off and looked at Mr. FixIt. 

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“God woke us up, right on time!”

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We were both refreshed. We got back on the road at a reasonable time and stopped in Wytheville to get gas and a sandwich. We got to the campground at dusk, and there was a problem. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I remember the lady telling me that once they close the campground, they lock the gate and if you don’t have the code to the opener, you don’t get in. I thought she said 8:30 but it was actually 7:30! We were locked out.

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It was dark, the office was closed and no one was answering the phone. We sat there trying to figure out what we could do when the guy that runs the tennis program came up on a golf cart and asked if he could help. He didn’t have the code either, but he attempted a couple of different numbers. They didn’t work. Right then, another camper came to the gate to get in and once he explained the situation to her, she was happy to let us pull in behind her.

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Our site was easy to find and relatively easy to back into. It wasn’t level at all but it tilted in a direction that I could deal with. We were in the camper and ready for bed in twenty minutes.

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Oh, and Mr. FixIt LOVES the camper! It’s so much more inviting with lots of floor space. The beds are a generous 30 inches. Combine that with the double recliner I installed last fall, the camper is really comfortable. It just feels feels much larger…like you can breathe.

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Our campground is on a lake so I’m looking forward to the view with my cuppa RYZE this morning!

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🩵

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”Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”“

\nIsaiah 30:21 NIV\n
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#RoadTrip, #GodKnows, #Virginia

\n\n", "date_published": "2024-04-25T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2024/04/25/road-trippin.html", "tags": ["Camping","God","Choices","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/18/oh-lucyim-home.html", "title": "Oh, Lucy…I’m Home!!!", "content_html": "\n
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We bugged out a day early and came home. We stayed at Hungry Mother State Park in Marion, Virginia the last night and it is truly a gorgeous place to stay. We were in a little campground called Creekside and while we couldn’t get a site right on the creek, it was still beautiful. The sites are well spaced and we had electric and water. We had a second night reserved, but it was cold and rainy. It got down into the 30’s overnight and with the rain, we couldn’t get out and hike or fish in the lake or sit outside. So yesterday morning, I smiled sweetly at Mr. FixIt and said, “You know, we’re less than five hours from home and you can sleep in your own bed tonight?” It didn’t take him long to decide that was a fine idea.

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I wish the sun would have been out because the colors were absolutely breathtaking! But even with cloudy, drizzly skies they were spectacular. Poor Mr. FixIt…I’d say, “OMGosh! Quick! Get a picture of that!!!” He’d pick his phone up, open the camera, focus, and we’d be past it by then! Bless his heart…he did his best and we did get some good shots but nothing that comes close to what we were seeing in person. It was truly magical and was the “picture perfect” ending to the very best trip we’ve ever taken together!

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We didn’t get home till after 5:00 last night and I was beat. So, here’s a couple of the best shots from yesterday. I’m going to soak in a hot tub and sleep till noon! 

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Thanks for traveling with me vicariously. See you tomorrow!

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🍁

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“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:”

\nEcclesiastes 3:1 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/18/oh-lucyim-home.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","Change","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/16/hello-lakeside.html", "title": "Hello, Lakeside!", "content_html": "\n
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Camping Along the Shore at Jordan Lake - Apex, NC

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We had the most beautiful drive through red wolf and bear habitat. Past marshy canals that house all manner of turtles and and waterfowl and alligators. We were surrounded by fields of cotton ripe for the picking…soybeans and peanuts with their yellowed foliage withered and dry. Carolina barbecue was advertised on hand painted signs along the two lane blacktop. I can promise you…those with the hand painted signs were the best in their county!

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Crepe Myrtle Blooming at the Visitor’s Center on Manteo

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The sky was mostly overcast but we left the rain and the gusty winds at the beach. The sound and the inland waterways were brown and choppy. The further west we drove, the calmer the winds and water till we were tooling along easily without being buffeted from side to side. We didn’t take the time to cook breakfast before we left our campsite because we were sure there would be a huge line at the dump station. But, lo and behold, when we got there, it was totally empty…even though several big campers pulled out ahead of us. In no time we had the dirty deed done and moved on down the road.

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A Big, Beautiful Campsite with Water and Electric

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As we came off the first bridge and arrived in Manteo, I told Mr. FixIt we should really pull into the visitor’s center parking lot and make some ham and egg sandwiches rather than trying to navigate a fast food parking lot towing the camper. We found a parking spot, put the slide out enough that I could get into the “pantry”, aka bathtub, and get the bread and skillet. That bathtub is a convenient place to stow the things that I used to store in the dinette benches. I quickly cooked up a batch of scrambled eggs and heated up the ham slices to melt the cheese. It was better than any quick breakfast food you could get at the arches…and much cheaper, too!

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We only drove about four and a half hours yesterday. Which was long enough considering how little we slept the night before. The wind rocked the camper all night, howling and whistling around every corner. I just got to sleep when I heard a loud bang. I looked all around and couldn’t figure out what it was. Again I drifted off and Mr. FixIt forgot to turn the sound down on his phone and he got a notification. I about jumped through my skin! I crawled over him to grab the phone and turn it down, then promptly dropped it on the floor with a loud thump. Now I’m literally laying across him, feeling around on the floor till I made purchase with the phone and hauled it back up by the charge cord. That’s when I looked at the window and saw what had made the crash earlier. 

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You can see the other loop from our campsite.

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Egress windows in a camper are hinged along the top and swing out so you can crawl through if you need to escape quickly. They have a long handle that can prop the window open for ventilation. But, a big gust of wind can lift it up, pull the handle through the slot in fits through, and then it falls down straight on the outside of the camper. That leaves it free to bang the side of the camper with ever gust of wind…which I’m SURE pleased the people sleeping in the tent right beside us. Oh, who am I kidding…they didn’t get a wink of sleep all night, unlike the folks on the other side. She works in an elementary school cafeteria and drives a school bus. She could sleep though an a-bomb. They were up bright and early, chipper as could be!

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We stopped at Harris Teeter just before we got to the campground. We’ve eaten a lot of eggs the last week and needed to get more. We also needed ice. Even though we have a small refrigerator in the camper, it’s not really big enough to hold much. So we supplement with the cooler. We got to the campground and I was surprised there was still someone manning the gate. We found our campsite and backed in with no problems. However, when I plugged in the camper, my surge protector indicated the post was wired with reverse polarity. We pulled out to go see if we could move to a different site when Mr. FixIt suggested I test another site to see if it was also reverse polarity and it was. So the whole campground was probably affected.

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The closest we got to a sunset.

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You are taking a risk when you plug in like that, but when I had Big TowWanda at The Farm, the house was wired the same way and it didn’t hurt the camper. We were so tired, and it was for just the one night so we took the risk and stayed in that site. I went to bed with a prayer that Grace will be ok in spite of my choice.

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Our campsite is directly across the road from the lake. I can imagine in warmer weather, the mosquitoes probably take you back to the nest to share with their buddies. Out of an abundance of caution, I sprayed myself up with insect repellent and Mr. FixIt and I took a walk down to the water’s edge. We are in a beautiful forest of tall trees with very little in the way of groundcover and underbrush. Jordan Lake is a huge freshwater lake outside the Raleigh-Durham area with three big campgrounds. If it hadn’t been so cloudy, I’m sure we would have had a beautiful sunset.

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Day is Done

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Today we head off to a Virginia State Park for the last two nights of our wonderful trip. I honestly think this has been our best vacation to the beach since we’ve been together. We had so much fun together! We’ll be in the mountains tonight so I have no idea if we’ll have cell service, so if you don’t hear from me for a couple of days, don’t be alarmed. 

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Happy Monday!

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🍁

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“For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills.”

\nPsalm 50:10 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-16T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/16/hello-lakeside.html", "tags": ["Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/15/so-long-seashore.html", "title": "So Long, Seashore!", "content_html": "\n
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Sunrise at the Outer Banks

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As they say, all good things must come to an end and we have to leave this beautiful place today. I finally got a sunrise photo yesterday morning. We aren’t necessarily early risers so we kept missing them. We couldn’t have had a prettier October week at the beach if we would have custom ordered it. Although we did have a couple of rainy days, it wasn’t really bad. There were a lot of people camping here in tents and I’m so grateful we have Grace to keep us warm and dry.

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I did go out in the afternoon to take the big cell phone antenna down. I saw on The Weather Channel that we could possibly get thunderstorms and that thing could have acted like a lightning rod. It isn’t difficult at all to put it up and take it down and it really made a difference in our reception. Even though I was conscious of my time online this week, I do rely on internet to get my posts out everyday. Writing this blog may seem to some like something that could easily be put aside for vacation time, but I’ve written an essay almost daily since its inception and I just don’t feel right if I haven’t had time to write to you all. It is my mission, my ministry, and my therapy.

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The old Oregon Inlet Coast Guard Station

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As I write this, Mr. FixIt is sitting beside me, watching a Tom Selleck movie with his headphones on. The wind and rain is buffeting the camper around as the storm whips through the campground. The neighbors are sitting in their truck instead of their tent to avoid the weather. I would ask them in, but they have two dogs and we just don’t have the extra room. The breeze coming in through the two windows we do have open feels wonderful. 

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The old Oregon Inlet Coast Guard Station

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Now that we are leaving, I can tell you we stayed at Oregon Inlet Campground. On the photo, you can see the blue dot where our campsite is located, and across the long bridge, you can see a short expanse of the old Bonner Bridge that they kept and use as a fishing pier. We went there yesterday and parked in the lot, then walked out through the dunes to the beach. And, just like always, I found several feathers to add to my collection at home. The sky was getting threatening and we cut our walk short. It was a good thing because the rain started coming in sheets about fifty yards from the parking lot. We got back to the camper, dried off, and I heated up the leftovers from our anniversary dinner at Henry’s. Scallops, flounder, hushpuppies, and baked potatoes. I made baked apples for dessert. 

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A Storm Brewing

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We are heading to a campground along a lake today. I’ll send pics and location tomorrow.

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Storm Over the Atlantic

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🌊

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“If the clouds are full of rain, they empty themselves on the earth, and if a tree falls to the south or to the north, in the place where the tree falls, there it will lie.”

\nEcclesiastes 11:3 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-15T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/15/so-long-seashore.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/12/this-was-a-total-day.html", "title": "This Was a Total Day Off!", "content_html": "\n
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We didn’t take a single picture yesterday so here’s one Mr. FixIt took the other night when we were watching the sunset. Sometimes the greatest views are in the opposite direction from where you’re looking.

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We had a nice, slow morning. Pancakes and eggs for breakfast. I love cooking outside. I’d like to have a cocina like they have in Mexico. An open air kitchen with a roof and a ceiling fan. It’s such a great way to cook and keep the heat out of the house. And there’s something primal about cooking outdoors, even if it’s in an electric skillet! Of all my specialty appliances, my big electric skillet is my favorite and I use it all the time. It’s big enough to use in place of a griddle and it’s deep enough to make stew, soup, and chili. It’s so easy to clean, too. I just wipe it out well, pour in some water with a drop of dish soap, and heat it up to a simmer. I turn it off and by the time it’s cool enough to put my hands in the water, I just swish a dishcloth around in it, dump the water, and give it a quick rinse with fresh water. Then it’s ready for the next meal and I’ve never brought it inside.

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After breakfast, we moseyed up the island to Kitty Hawk. We needed to stop at Lowe’s. Then I “had” to visit my friend Jeanne who owns Knitting Addiction Yarn Shop. My bestie Gail sent me a pattern for a soft, squishy winter hat and I thought that would be a great Christmas gift so I picked up the size needle I needed and enough yarn to make two hats and a pair of fingerless mittens. 

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Later, Mr. FixIt had a hankering for a hotdog from Captain Frank’s just down the road from the yarn shop. We stopped at the two antique stores next door then went in for lunch. The only thing I got in the antique stores was a handle for lifting Pyrex pans. I hadn’t seen one for ages and I have some old Pyrex at home.

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By the time we got back to the camper, we were both too tired to do much. We sat outside for a while but there was no wind at all and the mosquitoes were even after Mr. FixIt, and that’s highly unusual. Even with Off! we were both getting attacked.

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It was really a relaxing day…one well deserved. I think we’ll go out on the pier and fish again today. That was so much fun! We really haven’t spent much time on the beach itself this trip. It is such a chore to get our things out there and we didn’t want to spend the money on a beach pass. We have those big wheeled beach totes at home, but Mr. FixIt didn’t think we had room for them. Next time, we’ll strap them to the roof of the truck if need be!

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Yesterday and today were forecast to be cloudy but tomorrow looks like full sun! Saturday has an 86% chance of rain and 34% on Sunday when we leave to head to our next campground. Honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better week to be here!

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🌊

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“Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters;”

\nPsalm 107:23 ESV\n
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#Ocean, #Beach, #Camping

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It’s Apple Harvest Time! Bring the autumn scents into your home with this lovely soy candle.

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-12T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/12/this-was-a-total-day.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/09/what-a-beautiful-day-to.html", "title": "What a Beautiful Day to Explore", "content_html": "\n
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Our campground from the dunes.

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I discovered the sun comes right over the dunes and in my window in the camper and that was the end of sleep for me. But I didn’t mind. I laid there and listened to the faint sounds of the ocean waves and caught the chattering of a Boat-Tail Grackle nearby. The campground was still quiet and peaceful. The Boy Scouts across the road were just starting to move about and the welcome smell of frying bacon and coffee drifted along the row of tents and campers.

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Camphorweed…a member of the aster family.

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It wasn’t long before camper after camper was pulling out and heading home from their weekend at the beach. Sad-faced children pouted as their parents shuffled them along. They waved goodbye to the new friends they made on vacation. It took me back to those days when I went away to summer camp or I visited my cousins. I hated to go back home.

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The dreaded sand burr. Who remembers having your mom pull these out of your feet? Ugh!

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I whipped up some sausage and French Toast for breakfast and we sat at the picnic table, soaking up the sun. After the dishes were done, we drove up to Walmart for one last ditch effort to see if Mr. FixIt’s prescription came in and it did not. While we were there, we picked up a few things we needed to install the new cell phone booster. When we got back, I got everything put together and did a before an after speed test. Wowza!!! This thing tripled my download speed! So I’ll call that a big win!

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Our new cell booster tower!

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Mr. FixIt got his fishing gear put together and I finished cleaning up and organizing from my morning projects and it was time to start supper. I fixed Gail’s Cabbage Roll Casserole. It was SO good. I used the leftover spaghetti sauce I made on Friday. I was telling Mr. FixIt, I think I would rather have this than having the sauce over pasta…and it’s a lot less calories, too.

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The waves were pretty big yesterday!

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After supper and the dishes were done yet again, we went for a walk through the dunes and out on the beach. Some of you may have seen the live video I took of the surf. What beautiful shades of blue! We hurried back to the camper so we could drive over and catch the sunset on the sound side. It was downright blustery out there. I forgot to take a jacket and I was freezing. I fixed us a nice cup of tea when we got back to the camper and that was the end of the most perfect day.

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🌊

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“Thus says the Lord, who gives the sun for light by day and the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar— the Lord of hosts is his name:”

\nJeremiah 31:35 ESV\n
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#Ocean, #Camping, #Beach

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As promised, here is my newest Christmas design. Happy Campmas! A darling little vintage camper all dressed up for the holidays!

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-09T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/09/what-a-beautiful-day-to.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/08/we-have-arrived.html", "title": "We Have Arrived!!!", "content_html": "\n
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OMGosh…what a great campground! We are nestled in amongst the sand dunes in a very narrow part of the island. We cannot see the ocean from our camper, but we can see the sunset over the sound…just not right on the water. It’s so beautiful. We found the perfect place to watch the sunset right across the road from the campground. 

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We drove through quite a bit of rain on our way down here but just as I was backing the camper into our spot, it stopped. By the time we had everything unhitched and hooked up, the sun was shining. We had to make a decision…go over the dunes and see the ocean, or go across the road and watch the sunset. Those rain clouds were still hanging around so we opted to gamble on a beautiful sunset. It did not disappoint!

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It was pretty stuffy Friday night so we slept with the air conditioner going. It killed two birds with one stone…it cooled it down for better sleeping AND it drowned out a lot of the noise from the other campers. That campground was packed. This one is, as well. With Columbus Day on Monday, there are a lot of campers out and about with their kids. We were so happy to see a huge number of Boy Scouts camping this weekend right across from us. There must be 20-25 of them plus their Leaders. They were having so much fun playing organized games when we first got here. But as soon as it got dark, they were quiet as church mice. Good kids.

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Mr. FixIt, Jr., his wife, a nephew, and their friends are renting a beach house several miles south of us this week. We are really looking forward to spending some time with them on the beach fishing and playing corn hole. I brought my knitting with me. I kinda like being this far down on the island…there is very little commercialization down here. Less distraction. Less chance of spending money. Just peace and quiet. It’s heavenly. And now…I can rest for a whole week!

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🍁

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“O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great. There go the ships, and Leviathan, which you formed to play in it.”

\nPsalm 104:24-26 ESV\n
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No ads today. Look for something NEW and fun tomorrow!

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-08T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/08/we-have-arrived.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/06/mountain-miles-are-longer.html", "title": "Mountain Miles are Longer", "content_html": "\n
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Leaving the Greenbrier State Forest Campground

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I love to drive. Mountains, plains, twisty-turny or straightaways…I love them all. This camper is so easy to pull that you hardly know it’s back there. The only thing that gives me even the slightest pause is driving through rush hour traffic in a big city towing a camper behind me. Because people be crazy on the highways. They whip around you and dart right back in front of you with inches to spare. They don’t realize I’m hauling a couple of tons of force behind me and I can’t stop as fast as normal…even with electric brakes on the camper. I was in the middle lane going 65 when a guy passed me in the fast lane on my left. Not a problem normally. But then he turned sharp right in front of not only me, but the right lane, too and zipped off the exit. I think my heart is somewhere on the blacktop in Central Virginia.

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“Country Roads…Take me Home!”

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I can’t tell you where we’re staying while we are here, but it is SO beautiful. It’s in the general area of where we’ve stayed before…just not this campground. The State Park is neat as a pin with spacious campsites nestled in a tall hardwood forest. The camp host is as pleasant as can be. We had a hard time getting level and he loaned us a couple of boards and that was just what we needed. Again, it was nearly dark by the time we had the campsite set up so I whipped up a quick “breakfast/supper”…ham, eggs, and toast. Once I got the dishes cleaned up and sat down, it was almost 9:00. I fixed myself a hot beverage and sat down in our new recliners to write. I think I will smile every single time I sit down in here!

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We stopped in a rest area to take a short break and parked by the cutest little homemade teardrop camper. The couple were so nice and offered to show us their handiwork. He made this little camper in his basement! I forgot to ask him how he got it out! She is a nurse who works with Medicaid matching foster and adoptions with the proper services. I told her she is an angel in disguise because that is such hard work. They were just the sweetest people and we may find them visiting us here on these pages! Isn’t this just the cutest thing?

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Greenbrier State Forest

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I’m really glad we don’t have to travel today. We are going to play tourist and wander around the area a bit. Maybe even catch a nap…I don’t know. I’ll be able to share where we are tomorrow when we leave for the last leg of the drive down to the beach.

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🍁

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“But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.”

\n1 Timothy 6:8 ESV\n
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Boo! Three scary little pumpkins for Halloween.

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-06T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/06/mountain-miles-are-longer.html", "tags": ["Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/04/what-a-crazy-busy-day.html", "title": "What a Crazy Busy Day!", "content_html": "\n
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The last day before every trip is loony toons! We run around with our hair on fire, passing each other saying things like, “Did you grab the…..?” “Don’t forget your….!” “Don’t grab the…… I already got it!” Hokey Smokes!!!

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I had to go back into town yesterday to get a new flush valve to fix the camper toilet. I also got a stair nose to protect the front edge of the slide out since we’ll be climbing up and down there. I stopped the mail and paid the taxes. Did laundry. Cooked a pork roast and finally sat down to eat when our legs would not move another inch. Fried pork roast and sauerkraut…yummmmm!

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I have our itinerary printed and in the truck. I still think we have WAY too much stuff with us, but  we whittle it down after every trip. Whatever happened to the days of grabbing a toothbrush and a charge card and hitting the road? 

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Fixing the toilet yesterday was a lot more difficult than putting the loveseat recliners in the slide out. I was hoping I could avoid taking the toilet out because that gives you a direct opening to the black tank…right under your nose. Ugh! But, in the end, there really was no other way to reach this part without removing the whole thing. I quickly took a couple of large disposable diapers and covered the hole, making sure there was no way they could fall down in the tank. That would be a disaster!

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It didn’t take too long to remove the old part and put in the new one. The more difficult part was an extra step I decided to make. I installed a shutoff valve in the supply line to the toilet. That way, if this ever happens again, we can shut the water off just to the toilet and still be able to wash our hands and do dishes. The gentleman at the RV place showed me some clamps that you have to squeeze shut with a pipe wrench. By that time, my wrists were hurting so bad from all the work I’ve done over the last week, it was almost impossible. But I kept asking God to just give me a little more strength and it finally clicked shut!

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The last chore was installing a stair nose on the front edge of the slideout. This was another thing they happened to have at the RV dealer. Unfortunately, I forgot to ask for black screws. I managed to salvage five from other projects and that is really all I needed to get the stair nose attached firmly. I had to take the mattress off the bed in order to lift it to put a couple of storage tubs under there. I lost the storage space from under the bench seats of the dinette so two tubs took their place. It wasn’t heavy stuff…just some blankets and light kitchen items. I took a good deal of stuff back into the house. Like I said…not enough, but enough for right now.

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So that’s it. I’m fried. My back hurts. My hands hurt. Everything hurts! Too bad I quit drinking 23 years ago! We’re as ready as we’ll every be. At least we don’t have to leave at the crack of dawn. I’m looking forward to exploring a new WV State Park. I’ll report on it tomorrow!

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🍁

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“Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress; let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.”

\nProverbs 31:6-7 ESV\n
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#pain, #camping, #travel, #roadtrip

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I LOVE FALL CAMPING! And, you wanna know what? I’ve never camped at the beach so this ought to be amazing!!!

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-04T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/04/what-a-crazy-busy-day.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/10/03/im-the-exterminator.html", "title": "I’m the Exterminator", "content_html": "\n
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Mr. FixIt doesn’t like spiders and snakes. I wouldn’t say he’s necessarily afraid of them. I mean, he doesn’t scream like a little girl when he sees them. He just politely informs that there’s a spider or a snake that needs my attention. That’s ok…we all have our strengths and he makes up for it in many other ways.

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When I went out the back door Sunday night, I saw a sight I instantly recognized. A shiny black spider with a big abdomen. A Black Widow! I didn’t say a word. I just took off my shoe and kinda smacked it a little. When I turned my shoe over, there was the underside of said spider with the familiar red hourglass. It was then that I showed Mr. FixIt and warned him to watch out when reaching into woodpiles and dark places because this is the time of year the critters are looking for a comfy place to spend the winter.

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We had a crazy busy day yesterday. The first thing I did was make antimacassars for the new loveseat. Who knows what antimacassars are? And how did they get their name. Macassar oil was commonly. Used by men in the early 19th century to slick their hair back. It’s made of scented olive oil or castor oil. Women took to making small cloth covers for the tops of chairs to keep from getting grease stains on their furniture. Mr. FixIt doesn’t wear any product in his hair, but like most hard working men, he works outside a lot and perspires so between that and the natural oils in his hair, he stains the tops of chairs. Now, I could have put something lovely over the back of the loveseats, but the fabric is slick and the camper will be bouncing around, so I chose an older towel…a bath sheet because it was bigger. I cut it in half, hemmed the raw end, folded each half and stitched along the side selvages to creat something akin to a pillowcase. It slips right over the top of the chairs and can be removed to launder. I need to do this on the Big Red Chairs in the family room…in my spare time! lol

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I went into town with a list a mile long. I can get these things done a little faster on my own because there isn’t any discussion going on and we don’t run into people we know and stand and talk for half an hour. (Bless his heart!) I dropped off the old spare tire mount at the welder and told him what I wanted. Then I ran into town and did the shopping and the mount was finished when I picked it up on my way home. Easy Peasy. The only thing I forgot to do was have him drill a hole in the bottom so the rain will drain out. But Mr. FixIt can do that today.

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As happens with all campers, I came home to a mess in the bathroom. The flush valve sprang a leak so now I have to fix that today. I spent a long time last evening going through the camper and organizing the storage since we lost the space under the two bench seats. I’ll finish that up today, too. It’s always something, isn’t it? Oh, and I also have to figure out how to connect the cell booster, but honestly…that can wait till we’re camping.

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I need to pop the pork roast in the oven today and get that packaged up for meals for our trip. 

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Sleep is highly over-rated.

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🍁

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“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

\nJeremiah 29:11 ESV\n
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Personalized Christmas Ornaments are really starting to get popular now. If you are considering a personalized gift item, I have several to choose from in Marshmallow Ranch Designs.

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-10-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/10/03/im-the-exterminator.html", "tags": ["Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/07/26/what-a-lovely-day-for.html", "title": "What a Lovely Day for a Drive!", "content_html": "\n
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We finished packing the truck at around 11:00 yesterday morning. Just in time to have a farewell lunch with Ben and Sue before we had to leave. The guys went over to Wendy’s and got us salads and we sat around the kitchen table and shared one last meal with two of the dearest people we have ever known. I will miss all my Colorado peeps buy my oh my…I’m so ready to be home!

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We stopped at Mom’s…a little diner in Otis, Colorado…and got a to go order for our supper later at the hotel. We weren’t sure if there was food available in Yuma. Most places are only open for breakfast and lunch. Turns out, there is a lounge that serves food right in the lovely, brand new Cobblestone Inn & Suites. Impeccably clean and the staff that we dealt with were wonderful.

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We will get up early this morning and head over to get Grace out of the Quonset hut and move on to our next stop in Kansas. We’ve been keeping our eyes on the weather and it looks like we’re missing storms so far. There was a terrible storm at home Monday night. We watched the lightning and heard the thunder over the security camera. The rain was coming down so hard that it overflowed the gutters and blocked out the camera’s view. Those gutters need cleaned out…they’re full of leafy debris.

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We’re already thinking about all the the things we need to do when we get home!

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?

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“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

\nPsalm 23:1-3 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-07-26T00:00:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/07/26/what-a-lovely-day-for.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Travel","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/07/17/heading-to-the-mountains-again.html", "title": "Heading to the Mountains Again", "content_html": "\n
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I can’t be here this long and not go see my brother again. We’re heading back up to the mountains today for a couple of days to get some more hugs. We’ll be back Wednesday then Thursday Daughter #1 and Big leave for a long weekend in California to visit friends. They won’t be back till late Sunday night.

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I had a great day visiting with my Colorado kids. I went down and picked up Daughter #2 for brunch. (Are you detecting a pattern here? We LOVE brunch!) When she got in the car she asked, “Where are we headed, Mom?” Oooooooh….since it was my choice there was no question. Zaidy’s Delicatessen. They’ve moved since the old days but it was still nostalgic. One of my very first dates with Hubby #2 was to Zaidy’s when they were located down in Cherry Creek. I had my first bowl of Matzo Ball Soup there. So, of course…that’s what I had yesterday. The soup was exactly as I remembered…so savory and delicious. The only thing different was the matzo ball itself. Back in 1978 it was twice the size as the one at the new location, but it didn’t disappoint.

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The other day when we cooked all those traditional Jewish dishes, our friend Abby (who is actually Jewish) didn’t get to have any of them. So I bought some chopped liver and an onion pletzel so she could have them. They were all over at the pool when I got back so I took it over. First of all, she had never heard of pletzel. And second, she reluctantly tried the chopped liver but it was pretty dry. I have to say…mine is better. But she was so happy that I thought of her. And the pletzel was a hit!

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Since they’re going to be gone next weekend, they came over to Ben and Sue’s last night for supper. We had a great visit and we’ll get to see each other again before we leave next week. I will get some time with Little while her mom and sister are gone. We haven’t had time to be together just one-on-one. She and I both love to go junking so we’ll do that and have lunch.

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We’ll blink and this trip will be over. 

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*sigh*

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?

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“But those who won’t care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers.”

\n1 Timothy 5:8 NLT\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-07-17T00:00:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/07/17/heading-to-the-mountains-again.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Family","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/07/05/another-wonderful-day.html", "title": "Another Wonderful Day!!!", "content_html": "\n
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Sue and I got all the prep work done fairly early yesterday and the kids came in the afternoon. The girls went to the pool and the guys did what guys do…whatever that is. I sat and knitted by the pool and visited with the girls. We had a room full of family and friends and laughter because it was storming like crazy outside. We figured the fireworks would be postponed from the weather, but the storm let up about a half hour before showtime. This is the first summer Ben & Sue have lived in their new home so they weren’t quite sure where if they could see the fireworks from their house. Then, I looked up and there they were. We could see them right out of the family room window!

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It’s awfully noisy in town on the Fourth of July!

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We head to the mountains today to see my sweet brother and we’ll be back on Saturday morning in time to see my sister-in-law and brother-in-law coming in from Salt Lake City to see us. They invite us to come see them, but after driving five days across the country, I just don’t having it in me to drive another ten hours each way. I am so grateful they can come here this weekend.

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Hope you enjoyed your holiday!

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“Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.”

\nPsalms 127:3 NLT\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-07-05T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/07/05/another-wonderful-day.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Camping","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/07/01/day-three-are-we-there.html", "title": "Day Three - Are We There Yet???", "content_html": "\n
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The third day always seems to be the hardest when I/we make this cross country trek and yesterday was no different. OMGosh! First of all, we had barely gotten on the road when another big storm started coming at us, so we pulled into another Love’s Truck Stop and parked between two semis. It didn’t look like it was going to be as severe as the one on Thursday, which turned out to be a derecho. So, instead of waiting in the truck, we climbed in the camper and went back to sleep! 

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When the worst was past, we got back on the road and drove through a gentle rain. We hadn’t gone twenty miles when the traffic came to a complete stop. You could look ahead on Waze and see that traffic was backed up for 6.5 miles so we knew it was something serious. Huge wreckers and police cars went up the emergency lane to our right. After about an hour, we started moving forward and were directed off the interstate on a six mile detour. Before long, we were back on the highway and toodled right along to our next campground.

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Yesterday was our longest driving day. A projected drive of just under five hours turned into twelve and Miss Ginny wasn’t necessarily her usually happy, perky self when we got to the campground. But, we got here safely and that’s all that matters. The park itself is darling. It must be run by the city. It’s small and clean. Each site has water and electric and is paved. The sites are generously spaced. The only negative I could make is it was Friday night of Independence Day Weekend and it sounded like WWII out there!

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I’m still managing to stay on my Noom program while we travel which is no small feat. We hit the hay early and today isn’t supposed to be nearly as long or as far. See you tomorrow!

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?

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“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.”

\nPsalms 4:8 NLT\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-07-01T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/07/01/day-three-are-we-there.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/06/29/day-one-down-safe-and.html", "title": "Day One Down - Safe and Sound!", "content_html": "\n
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The view out our camper door last night!

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I woke up at 6AM and started tucking things away in the camper and let Mr. FixIt sleep for another hour. I was puttering around in the kitchen when I heard his alarm go off so I went in to wish him good morning. We were up and dressed and started packing the last of the stuff in the back of the truck. The lawn is mowed. The beds are changed. The dishes are all done and put away. The trash is out. The mail is stopped. The former Mrs. FixIt is watching the cat and watering the plants. My WV daughter and her husband are going to mow the lawn. That part is all set.

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I received a call from the developmental services where my brother lives. He’s having some health issues and they wanted to keep me apprised. Anything that goes wrong with him just breaks my heart and worries me to death. As I was driving and mulling things over (I do my best mulling while driving, you know) I started asking myself the question that pulls me out of the spiral that used to send me into full blown panic attack.

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1: Is there anything at all you can do right now to change this situation?

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If the answer is no, don’t use up the extra bandwidth on something you can do nothing about. If the answer is yes, then do that thing…in a timely, courageous, and caring manner.

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We’ll have a meeting with his staff when we are there next week. Till then, they will keep me apprised if anything changes.

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In the meantime….land’s sake! Are you all inundated with this terrible smoke from the fires in Canada??? As we drove through West Virginia, Ohio, and into Indiana yesterday, the air looked like a milky fog. We got to our campsite just before 5:00. I fixed some supper and we sat outside to eat. That’s when I looked at the Weather Channel and saw the “Unhealthy Air Quality” warning. I actually talked Mr. FixIt into coming inside so we stretched out in the air conditioning and watched videos of great auditions for some of the musical competition shows.

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Traffic was pretty steady and always has too many trucks. I don’t know if you have ever pulled a camper, but when you’re going 60-65 in the middle lane and semis pass you on either side, at the same time, going 70-80…whoooo doggies. That is an experience I don’t necessarily care for. I’ll be glad when we get off I-70 and head further north. Historically, it’s been my experience that the traffic isn’t as crazy.

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So, these are going to be really long days and fairly short nights where I have to regroup, I might be doing a lot more asking questions and a little less writing my lengthy missives to you. I wish I would have had Mr. FixIt take a video of the farmer we followed most of the way to town on our little two-lane blacktop….at fifteen miles per hour. It would have been a very LONG and boring piece of film-making punctuated with a couple of colorful epithets. But for today, I’ll leave you with this video of the air quality as we left West Virginia. I’m praying for the poor people who have to live near this and other wildfires.

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Click here to see the video on my YouTube Channel.

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“And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.”

\nRomans 5:5 NLT\n
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#Smoke, #Fires, #Hazy

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-06-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/06/29/day-one-down-safe-and.html", "tags": ["Hope","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/06/19/into-the-woods-i-go.html", "title": "Into the Woods I Go", "content_html": "\n
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What a beautiful day to drive up along the Ohio River. The sun was shining and it was 81°. The traffic was light. It doesn’t matter what Siri says…it always takes me longer than predicted because I have to stop here and there along the way. It’s just how I roll. But glancing over and catching sight of boats on the river made my heart sing.

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When I stay at a campground for three or four nights, I set up the campsite to be really cozy. I put out a camp rug to keep from tracking dirt and rocks into the camper. I have a camp kitchen set up where I can put the griddle or electric skillet and my tea kettle. The cooler and the kitchen trunk are off to one side and my two folding bamboo tables are strategically placed with on by my chair. I like to sit and have my coffee there and our new camp chairs rock. Like, literally rock. That’s a nice addition to our camping gear.

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Once everything was set up, I fixed myself some supper. I bought a rotisserie chicken and corn on the cob at my last stop. So, I cooked up two ears of corn and cut off a thigh and leg quarter from the chicken. Then I had some watermelon for dessert. By then Gail was back from her church meeting and we sat and talked till dark. 

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This campground was once a strip mine. It was reclaimed at one point and the campground was created. But the drainage was bad and mosquitoes were crazy bad. The feds came in and did another reclamation, filling in the ponds that had formed and culling a bunch of trees. There was one massive sycamore tree that stood like a ghostly sentinel towering over the other trees. I don’t know if Gail was able to throw any weight around, but she did say once that she really hoped they would save that tree. When we came back after the reclamation project was completed…there stood the Grand Dame of the Forest in all her glory!

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I love camping on the weekdays because there are hardly any campers. It makes for a very slow and laid back trip…just my style of camping. I think there may be naps in my future this trip! We can’t do that on the Colorado trip because we’ll be moving on every morning. Mr. FixIt had a wonderful day and spent quality time with Junior FixIt. My bonus daughter has been sick for a week so he didn’t go near them. We can’t afford to get sick!

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I needed this R&R to rest up for the trip out west. These long cross-country drives are getting a little more difficult the older I get. But it’ll be a long time before I give up on them!

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?

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 “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”

\n1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT\n
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Mermaids are everywhere! 

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-06-19T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/06/19/into-the-woods-i-go.html", "tags": ["Camping","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/06/18/my-man.html", "title": "My Man", "content_html": "\n
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I went on a little walkabout today to check out the pollinator gardens. It seems the only flowers right now are the daisies and tons of clover. I found a large patch of pink clover and the field is full of Indian Mock Strawberry (Potentilla indica), formally (Duchesnea indica). It’s everywhere and the little red berries look like miniature strawberries. But, they have no flavor whatsoever. Mixed in with other berries, you can eat them in jam. but I just look at them and smile at their little five-petal flowers and bright dots of red in the field grass. I think the daisies will continue to bloom for a while.

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Mr. FixIt is such a doll. He had an errand to run this weekend and he did it yesterday so he could be here to help me pack up for my girl trip. His back is doing so much better, but I tried to keep him from toting too much heavy stuff. He did bring some jars of canned vegetable soup up from the basement but I took them from him at the top and carried them the rest of the way out to the camper.

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I spent a good portion of the day cleaning and organizing the camper. It is so small that it doesn’t take long till it’s in total disarray. But now everything looks great…neat and tidy. I charged up the battery for the portable drill I use to raise and lower the stabilizing jacks. Mr. FixIt cut up a watermelon into chunks and I filled a container to put in the camper fridge. I didn’t need both big lockers that we use to store our outdoor kitchen items and dry goods. One sufficed.

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I have knitting packed and a good book. I have friends coming for socializing. I love to girl camp. There’s always siesta time in our respective campers during the heat of the day then we come back out at social hour. We all contribute to the meals. I’m bringing some home-canned vegetable beef soup and some spicy pork green chili for the breakfast burritos. 

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I’ll be back Thursday then we take the truck in on Friday for new rear brakes. Mr. FixIt will take it in next week to have the oil changed and the tires rotated. Then we need to stock the camper and pack up to leave on the 28th for our Colorado trip! The summer is always so jam packed full of fun! Mr. FixIt is going fishing today with Junior FixIt so I think I’ll mow before I leave for the campground. I hate to leave all that work for him.

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Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. And Happy Dad’s Day to all the moms who had to do both jobs. Just like Mother’s Day, not all holidays bring happy memories and they can be difficult so if you struggle with this, my heart is with you.

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?

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“As a face is reflected in water, so the heart reflects the real person.”

\nProverbs 27:19 NLT\n
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No ads on Sunday…I hope you have a Blessed Day and get to go out into nature!

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-06-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/06/18/my-man.html", "tags": ["Camping","Love","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Marriage"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/06/08/finding-peace-in-the-rush.html", "title": "Finding Peace in the Rush", "content_html": "\n
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I really picked the right time to start a “lifestyle change”…There’s so much freshness out there!

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I’m reading a devotional by John Mark Comer about eliminating “hurry” from our lives. He posits that we get our schedules so jam packed that we have to rush faster and faster to get things done. When that happens, you have less time for love, joy, and peace. We all need more of all three and we cheat ourselves when we try to cram so much into our lives.

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I enjoyed a lazy start to my day and sat in the morning sunshine…sipping on my mushroom coffee. After breakfast, I sat down at the desk in the office and started working on the schedule for the Colorado trip. Normally, I would have had this all planned out and scheduled at least two months ago, but…well, the shop and the quilt and the impromptu camping trips and SPRING! I had to force myself to sit down and knock as much of it out as I could.

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Before I did anything, I asked God to pave the way for me and make it easy to find campsites. We’re traveling over the 4th of July weekend! I opened the RV Life site and got to work. I had to laugh because just about every campground I looked at had ONE site left and it was exactly what I needed! It still wasn’t a fast process as I was also learning the ins and outs of a new program. I got as far as the trip from Denver home so there are only four or five more reservations to go and that trip will be all set.

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You know, it’s a lot faster to fly. And probably a lot cheaper. But I just don’t have the chops for flying anymore. Watching all those stories of airlines messing up their schedules and leaving people stranded for days…hearing horror stories of lost luggage and brutally scaled back amenities…and watching grown adults slugging flight attendants and other passengers? Yeah….I think I’ll pass. I love our little camper and I love to drive and I love my navigator so I’m good!

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Before I sat down to do all this stuff, I had to make a quick run into town to pick something up at the post office. When I walked in, there were a couple of ladies standing in front of the door catching up…as folks are wont to do in a small town. I pardoned myself as I slipped in the door and check my PO Box. There was a slip announcing the arrival of something I was waiting for. As the ladies continued to chat, I carefully opened the box and pulled out the contents. I can’t divulge what it is yet because it’s a surprise for one of my loved ones. But when I saw it…I gasped out loud. It was even more beautiful that I anticipated and I was just thrilled by the quality.

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The ladies noticed I had a pretty and came over to ooh and ahh. Pretty soon it was two of us and we continued to chat for quite some time. We finally exchanged numbers and became Facebook friends right away. Have you ever met someone who you just click with? You know right away that you’re going to be fast friends and it just tickles you pink? Yep…it was just like that. I love it. We can never have too many friends, can we? And…she invited us to her church. 

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*smile*

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God’s been pretty busy winking at me this week!

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?

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“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones……”

\nProverbs 17:22 NIV\n
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#Friends, #GodWinks, #Vacation

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Setting up the schedule for the cross country trip means figuring out how far to drive every day so we don’t arrive in Denver dog-tired. I love a good road trip so making all these reservations at campsites reminds me…campers get more smiles per gallon!

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-06-08T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/06/08/finding-peace-in-the-rush.html", "tags": ["God","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/05/18/what-a-whirlwind-trip.html", "title": "What a Whirlwind Trip!", "content_html": "\n
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The view of Seneca Rocks from the tent camping sites.

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I was hoping there would be some time for sitting around the campfire, knitting and listening to the birds in the forest on this trip. It was anything BUT that. It was even BETTER! This trip was all about visiting my beloveds and making memories and that is priceless. 

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My only living uncle…my precious Uncle Bud…is a widower. Living on his own and keeping himself busy as ever. He’s 86 years old now when we arrived, he was welding a contraption he designed to pull a submersible pump and copper wire out of a 600 foot deep water well. He is a force to be reckoned with. He took us out to dinner at Cheetah B’s…a little mom and pop restaurant in the building they share with the American Foreign Legion. The Whiskey Glazed Filet Medallions were SO good!

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The second day was spent with my wonderful Cousin Tammy and her husband Alvy. Located at the base of a mountain, their sprawling property houses a wood chip mill, and meat processing facility, a flower stand, and a gorgeous home they built with their own hands. They even cut the timber in their own sawmill. They recently purchased a 27 acre lot adjacent to theirs and Alvy took Mr. FixIt and I in the side-by-side up these crazy 4x4 trails in the rain. I had NO idea where we were. It felt like we were just going around in circles. We went out this one trail and there was a good lined tree blocking the way. We had to go back. There was no room to turn around, so Alvy just started backing down the mountain. I never should have let him see I was getting a little freaked out about not being able to see where I was headed, because that just added to the fun and he gave us a ride to remember, let me tell you. Alvy is a great big, strong, mountain man with a heart the size of the rugged mountain he he’s scrabbled a life on. They raised three equally strong women and now have a passel of grandkids they absolutely adore. It was SO much fun seeing them. The bonus was her middle girl stopped by with her two kids.

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When we got up yesterday morning to sunny skies, I suggested we stay one more day so I could get some of that knitting and listening to the birds in that I was hoping for. But my sweetheart reminded me we had a boatload of stuff to do.

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Who wouldn’t want to stay here a while?

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It’s a good thing we did come home because there was a frost warning for this morning in the area we camped in. It didn’t take us long to pack up and we took our time towing up and down four mountains on our way back. 

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We stopped in Buchanan at a Walmart parking lot. I jumped in the camper and cooked us a delicious meal and we sat there chatting about how wonderful it is to have the freedom and the means to take such adventures and to have someone to share them with. It was a really nice getaway.

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The first morning before all the visiting began.

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We stayed at Seneca Shadows Campground located in the Monongahela National Forest. It is a beautiful place with four loops with well-spaced campsite. There are flush toilets and showers, fire pits, and picnic tables. There is a large tent camping area that overlooks Seneca Rocks so there are a lot of rock climbers that stay there. There are a couple of little stores at the intersection about a mile or so away and they have a climbing school with a huge climbing wall. West Virginia has some of the most beautiful scenery there is and I hope y’all will come see why John Denver called it…Almost Heaven!

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The view from my uncle’s front yard.

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“Ain’t it good to be back home again?”

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?

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“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”

\nProverbs 15:17 NIV\n
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Our camping trip reminded me of this shirt I designed. Memories!

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-05-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/05/18/what-a-whirlwind-trip.html", "tags": ["Camping","West Virginia","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/05/13/road-trip-prep.html", "title": "Road Trip Prep", "content_html": "\n
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Our view over dinner.

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Once you’ve got the first camping trip of the season under your belt, the others take less time to prepare So many of the camping items get put away for the winter and inevitably, you can’t find something you really need. We are trying to keep all the camping supplies in one place, but until that big pole building gets sorted out, things are still scattered around.

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Mr. FixIt and I went to town yesterday to get gas in the truck and go to our favorite grocery store. I haven’t really camped while eating clean and green so it’s a bit of a challenge to figure out what to take. We don’t have a huge refrigerator in the camper so we can’t really load up on too much fresh food. We’ll be camping somewhere fairly remote, however there is a very small grocery store and restaurant nearby. We’ll be visiting family on Sunday and again on Monday night so breakfasts, snacks and one dinner are all we really need to plan for.

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My sister/friend Sue is on a lifestyle change, too. She gave me some suggestions for low and no calorie foods and salad dressings so I picked some up yesterday. We have apples, bananas, and blueberries. Sweet Potatoes and Russet Potatoes. We’ll pick up a rotisserie chicken and some lettuce at the last big grocery store we pass before the campground. I’m sure we’re going to have plenty to eat.

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It will seem strange to not have hotdogs and burgers and s’mores. I haven’t had any real cravings on this program, but I do occasionally like a crunchy, sweet treat. I bought some Purely Elizabeth Ancient Grain Granola to sprinkle on top of my Oikos Triple Zero Yogurt. Add some fruit and it should satisfy any sweet tooth. I ate like crazy yesterday and I still had some calories to spend at bedtime so I added a banana.

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I do want to tell you about this amazing egg scramble I made yesterday. I had leftover fluffy quinoa from supper the night before. I have a mister that I spray vegetable oil on my pans instead of non-stick cooking spray. You hardly get any calories and you aren’t eating heaven knows what in your food. I tossed the quinoa in the skillet with a scant 1/4 cup of cubed ham till it was warm and removed from the heat. I scrambled two eggs and added about two teaspoons of sour cream, two tablespoons of cottage cheese, and a half teaspoon of “All Things Eggs”…an herb blend I purchased at William Sonoma last summer. A little pricey, but it lasts forever and is oh so yummy! I put the skillet back on the heat and poured in the egg mixture. Stir and fold till the egg is set and you have a delicious meal packed with protein and very little fat. 

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We had Wendy’s salads for supper after grocery shopping. We parked at a park on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River and ate then walked the path all the way around the park to get our steps in. It was a stellar evening. It was still in the 80’s and the sky was partly cloudy. The river was a smooth as glass. A beautiful day all the way around. Today, we finish some laundry and pack then off we go bright and early tomorrow.

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Even though I sleep in the camper a lot…because I can…this is our first official camping trip of the season and I can’t wait to spend some quality time in the woods with my sweetheart! I doubt seriously if there will be cell service there so my posts may be spotty at best. But I’ll at least try to get some photos out to you if I’m near service.

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“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

\n1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV\n
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Here is my second set of notecards featuring some of my flower photography. I tried to make one set all shades of pink and this set shades of white. These were all taken at Grandma’s Farm.

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-05-13T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/05/13/road-trip-prep.html", "tags": ["Health","Road Trip","Fitness"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/04/22/historic-williamsburg.html", "title": "Historic Williamsburg!", "content_html": "\n
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Cracker Barrel for the Win…Biscuit Bennies!

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It was perfect driving weather yesterday. The sun was shining with wispy white clouds. It was in the mid to high 80’s and perfect. We only had a couple of patches of bad traffic and we were so glad there were no accidents. We left home around 9:00AM and got into our hotel by 7:45PM. That’s with several stops along the way to stretch our legs and get a snack. We made sure we checked into our motel first, then headed to Cracker Barrel for supper. Mr. FixIt had fish and chips and collard greens. I love Eggs Benedict and had their version…a split biscuit with bacon, eggs, and Hollandaise sauce…a side of grits and fried apples with sweet tea. OMGosh! We are in the south, y’all…it was SO good but I swear I can feel my arteries crackling!

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We were so tired last night…we just came in and crashed. I searched the web to find a good deal on a room. We have to stay over that first day driving down and I’d rather save my money for a nice dinner at the beach, so I looked for a bargain that Mr. FixIt would be proud of. The last few years, we’ve stayed at an old Howard Johnson near Busch Gardens. But the rooms are so rundown and get worse every year even though the prices get higher. This year we stayed at a motel that reminded me of my first night I ever stayed in a hotel of any kind. It was in Gatlinburg, Tennessee before it became trendy and upscale. I’ll tell you the name another time. As you know…I don’t divulge where were are staying while we are actually there for safety’s sake. But, it was clean, the staff was nice, and it only cost $65! I received the Mr. FixIt seal of approval.

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A veritable traffic light! Who wants to shop for Fiesta Ware made right here in WV? We HAD to visit Tamarack Marketplace and Cultural Center near Beckley, WV….where you can see and buy some works of the finest artists from the Mountain State!

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We’ll get up this morning and go to Capital Pancakes for breakfast then head on down to the Outer Banks. Mr. FixIt drove the last three hours yesterday so I could start knitting a pair of socks so my vacation is off to a great start! I love making memories with my sweetheart.

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“You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”

\nSong of Songs 4:7 NIV\n
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I love elephants…I rode one once! And the colors on this design are so vibrant and beautiful.

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Shop Now

\n\n", "date_published": "2023-04-22T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/04/22/historic-williamsburg.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2023/03/16/up-and-at-em.html", "title": "Up and At ‘Em!", "content_html": "\n
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Gail’s New Spinning Wheel…all Tucked in Safe and Sound

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Mr. FixIt woke me with a start yesterday morning at 8:05. We were due at a local garage at 8:30 to drop off the truck to get new brakes. I gently reminded him we weren’t heading out to catch a flight so if we were a few minutes late, we’d be ok. We got the name of this mechanic from Mr. FixIt Jr. This fella did some work for him a few times and he was pleased. Since our usual mechanic couldn’t get us in for a week or so, we decided to give this guy a try. Not only did he get us right in, but his price was far less than the other place and we didn’t have to drive all the way into town. Win-Win!

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We went back home and piddled around the house for a while. I tried to do some laundry. I hate our washing machine. It’s one of those “water savers” which is a joke because no matter how well I load it, I always have to rinse twice. This time, I had it loaded just right. I turned it on and set the dials and buttons and used start (why do there have to be SO many buttons?!) The lid lock light came on, there was a click as it locked followed by a brief hum then….click! The lock light went out. I tried everything. I turned it off and on. Hey if it works for a cell phone surely it will work for a washing machine right?

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Nothing.

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I passed Mr. FixIt on my way out to the camper with an armload of stuff and asked him if he would please go down and commune with that infernal machine and do that voodoo he does so well. He went down, pushed the same buttons I did and…it turned right on! That machine hates me.

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I spent a good deal of time cleaning up the camper and restocking with some of the items I took out last fall. I made the bed and stowed away anything loose that might roll around while I’m traveling to the campground tomorrow. I brought out Gail’s spinning wheel that we picked up for her last month. I tucked it under the dinette table and surrounded it with the bed pillows to protect it. That’s recipes cargo. Those things are really expensive…kinda the Mercedes of spinning wheels. I can’t wait to get it to her because she’s really been looking forward to it. After the month they’ve had in East Palestine, she deserves a getaway with the girls and the opportunity to spin on a wheel she’s wanted for decades.

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Once I had things squared away in the camper, I brought the slide in and locked up for the night. I spent the rest of the afternoon going through my patterns and accessories then choosing what yarn I want to work with next. I think I’m going to make a beautiful red cardigan next. I also brought a soft grey cashmere blend that might be nice. Then at the last minute, I threw in my go to sock patterns and a pretty sock yarn. What can I say…I’ll know what I want to knit when I get there.

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Gail tells me there is no cell service at the campground and there’s probably no WiFi either. So I’ll schedule some repeat posts for you for the rest of the week and I’ll be back live Monday morning! It’s going to be nice to have a break.

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“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

\nHebrews 10:24-25 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2023-03-16T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2023/03/16/up-and-at-em.html", "tags": ["Camping","Choices","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/10/06/travel-days-are-long-days.html", "title": "Travel Days are Long Days", "content_html": "\n
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First, there’s the getting up and going issue…something neither of us are necessarily good at. Then there’s the packing up the camper, tucking everything away, and hitching up. There’s always a stop at the Golden Arches for some iced tea and breakfast sandwiches. This time there was a prescription to pick up at Wally World. And finally, a stop at a rest area on the way where we dump our tanks and fill up with fresh water. 

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I don’t normally travel with a full fresh water tank because it just adds extra weight and that takes more gas to tow. I usually travel with no more than 1/3 tank…just enough to flush the toilet along the way. But, this campground doesn’t have a place where you can fill up your tank and, since we’re going to be here for four days, I need all the water I can get to wash dishes, flush the toilet, and take the briefest of showers during our stay. There isn’t a bath house here…just a solar shower and that’s not happening in October!

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It’s only 121 miles to the campground from our house, but there’s always traffic and potty breaks. Then, we stop at the store closest to the campground and pickup food for our stay. We left at 11:30 and got here at 5:30. We set up the screen tent and the outdoor kitchen and the electric fireplace and sat out there till after dark.

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This is the first time we’ve used the screen room and it worked great. It kept the bugs off us and our food. We leaned the chairs forward on the small table we use and hopefully they won’t gather dew too terribly. Once the dishes were done and things put away, we were both pooped. As I write this, Mr. FixIt is watching a movie on the portable DVD player I so wisely bought for him during one particular camping trip when it was cold and rainy. It’s saved the day on more than one occasion. 

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My sweetie is a TV watcher. I am not. So, the addition of headphones was a BIG bonus! I did bring a couple of movies I wouldn’t mind watching, but I could certainly live with out them. I brought enough knitting projects to keep me busy for a month!

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I think I may have heard an owl way off in the distance at dusk last night, but I wouldn’t swear to it. Hopefully they haven’t all been scared away by the intense reclamation work that went on here at the park during the pandemic. We’ll just have to listen carefully…and maybe I can call them in with the app since they aren’t on the nest at this time of year.

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I’m looking forward to visiting with friends today and honestly…not doing a darned thing! 

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?

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“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”

\nMatthew 6:26 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-10-06T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/10/06/travel-days-are-long-days.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Comfort","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/09/30/have-i-got-a-story.html", "title": "Have I Got a Story for You!", "content_html": "\n
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We lazed around the campsite yesterday morning. I fixed sausage and eggs and heated up some leftover corn cakes for breakfast. Mr. FixIt looked on his phone to see what was nearby. The largest state park in Pennsylvania is only eight miles from here so we picked up around camp and headed to explore.

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Camp hair…don’t care!

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Raccoon Creek State Park encompasses 7,572 acres of mixed forest with lots of trails. Located just 30 miles from Pittsburg, the park is a haven for avid outdoor enthusiasts hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, camping, swimming, fishing, and boating. While there is a large pool at the entrance to the park that includes a long, twisting water slide, Raccoon Lake is a lovely place to fish and play in and on the water. There are boat rentals available, but it is too late in the season for those activities. We really loved the spacious campground with lots of level sites. We drove around and took pictures of the sites that appealed to us and plan to camp there sometime next year.

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Now…I have a great story to tell you!

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Remember last week when we camped on the river? We met these really nice folks from Lewisburg…Sandy and Todd. As we talked with them, it occurred to us we had camped beside them…in the same two sites…sometime in the last few years. We think it must have been 2017 or 2018. Anyway, we figured if we’d run into each other twice in the same place, it was fate that we exchange info and keep in touch, right?

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Well…keep in touch, we did. Yesterday, Sandy sent me a text with a photo…a screenshot of a post she had put on her Facebook page back in 2014 with the message, “Was this by any chance you I met in 2014?”

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I looked at the photo closely. Hmmmm….

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Holy Cats!!!!

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That’s my camper…BIG TOW-WANDA! I was towing it with my Ford Expedition. Shortly after this, I traded it in for the F-150. The photo was taken in the parking lot of the Best Western Hotel. I cannot remember what I was doing there that day. The only thing I can surmise is I was working a shift for someone. I was indeed getting ready to head across the country to live on the farm and help my elderly aunt.

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Sandy and Todd were staying at the hotel as they were on a cross country train trip and Amtrak goes right through Glenwood Springs. I only have a vague memory of meeting them. I do remember talking to a couple about Lewisburg and asking if they knew my friend Nan and, of course…they did. 

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What are the odds of this??? Astronomical! But nothing is out of the realm of possibilities when God is at work. He places us all in paths to cross with others. And now, He’s placed me and Sandy and Todd in the same place at the same time…three times…thousands of miles apart! I’m still flabbergasted. I wish we had taken a photo together when we were camping last week, but we decided we’ll have lunch together the next time we come though Lewisburg, so one of these days…you will see a follow up story!

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Back to what’s happening here…something is up with Facebook and I cannot see the comments you leave, which makes me really sad. I love hearing from you so, until they fix the problem, please feel free to send me a private message with your comments. I so enjoy interacting with you all…especially about this story. I can’t wait to hear from you! Have any of you had a similar experience? Let me know!

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“Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge, but time and chance happen to them all.”

\nEcclesiastes 9:11 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-09-30T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/09/30/have-i-got-a-story.html", "tags": ["Uplifting Stories","God","Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/07/29/day-thirteen-was-the-best.html", "title": "Day Thirteen Was The BEST Day!", "content_html": "\n
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The scary metal Mothman scupture with the creepy eyes!

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According to Little, yesterday was the BEST day yet! We had a couple of lay low days and a couple of really busy canning days so they were more than ready to get out for an adventure! I went in and did the wakey-wakey thing and got dressed and pretty soon we were out and about…looking for something to get into!

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Little posing in front of a mural at the museum.

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The first thing we did was stop at Starbucks for a refreshment and a morning nosh. Then we hit the new Goodwill Store. We found some pretty cool things and Little got some awesome back to school clothes. I found a Mr. Juiceman juicer for $10 that I’m looking forward to trying. I also got a cool teaching kit for the littles for when they head into preschool and kindergarten.

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A poster at the Mothman Museum.

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Once we wrapped up at Goodwill, we hit the road. I had a big surprise in store. Little is at that age where theatrical and creepy ghost stories are ALL that and a bag of chips. So, we headed to The Mothman Museum in Point Pleasant. I don’t know if you saw it or not, but Richard Gere of all people starred in a movie called The Mothman Prophecies in 2002. I remember hearing about the Mothman when I was growing up. From November 16, 1966 to December 16, 1966, several sightings were reported of a man-sized bird-like creature near Point Pleasant, WV. The first newspaper story was published on November 17th about two young couples who were out joyriding near the old TNT factory when this thing swooped down and landed on their car and they took off. It kept getting ahead of them and stood along the road, eyes glowing red only to dash ahead and do it over and over.

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Our picnic supper of the best Chinese food!

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It was all over the news…people were out looking for the mythical creature that became a colorful piece of West Virginia folklore. The good folks at the Mothman Museum in Pt. Pleasant…billed as the ONLY Mothman Museum in the WHOLE WORLD…are doing a brisk business. You too can drop a small bundle and walk behind the camouflaged doors to cast your eyes on such incredible things as the actual watch that Richard Gere wore in the movie or numerous framed copies of the newspaper articles relaying the reported sightings and the uproar they caused. Which segues to the events of December 16th, 1966. The Silver Bridge collapsed into the Ohio River during rush hour killing forty-six people. Twenty-one people survived the plunge into the icy waters. Local scuttlebutt had it that the Mothman was never seen after the bridge collapsed so logically, the two must be tied together, right? This is how myth becomes legend and conspiracy theories are born. For filler, there were pictures and stories about UFO sightings all around the country during the same time period.

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Yummy edamame.

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This was right up Little’s alley, being a theater kid and all. We had our picture taken with everything except the silver metal sculpture located around the corner from the museum. I can’t say as I blame the kid…it’s pretty menacing with its sharp teeth and claws and bulging red eyes glowing like two coals in the night. Yeah, we steered clear of that guy. But, we had to buy the obligatory souvenir t-shirt and a pair of cool socks for Big and a sticker for her mom’s water bottle.

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Little spotted this heron when we were listening to the little band at the shelter in the park.

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We were getting ready to leave when we noticed a huge antique mall just a few doors down from the museum so we dodged in there for a bit. Little found some candy and I found a cookbook and a couple of gifts for Christmas or birthdays…not sure yet. I’m looking forward to reading the cookbook about Julia Child written by Dorie Greenspan…both chefs extraordinaire in their own rights.

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The Ravenswood Cemetery where many of my ancestors rest in peace.

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When we finally finished, Little said they would LOVE to have Orange Chicken for supper. I asked Siri where the nearest Chinese Restaurant was and she told me about one just around the block. I’ll tell you what…that was some of the best Chinese food I think I have EVER eaten. And they gave us SO much of it. I got House LoMein with chicken, beef, and shrimp. We both got an appetizer of edamame. If you haven’t had that…you don’t know what you’re missing. It’s steamed soybeans, served in their hulls. You salt them, then nibble the beans between your teeth just enough to pop the edge of the pod open and you can squeeze out the bean. SO yummy and good for you!

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The old Wilding Graded School built in 1897.

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When we got to Ravenswood where my dad was born, raised, and died, there was an old timey band playing in the park on the banks of the Ohio River. We had to stop and listen while we sat in one of the big metal swings overlooking the water. I scattered my father’s cremains on the riverbank not a football field length away from where we sat, so I regaled Little with stories and showed them pictures of my dad.

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The poor old house looks so bad. I think someone is trying to fix it up, but it’s pretty sad looking.

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Before long, we drove on…stopping first at the cemetery where my Grandmother Roush and other family members are buried, then on out the country road to see what’s left of my Aunt Marge’s farm. It was nearly dark by the time we got home. We were going to go swimming together, but I chickened out when I felt how cold the water was. I ended up sitting on the deck and having a most delightful conversation with this darling grandchild of ours. 

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I fed calves in this barn and my dad raised pheasants here.

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We will rid up Little’s laundry today and pack. We need to pack up all the extra things so we can run to the post office and ship them back to Colorado for them. Then I promised we would go back to the Mt. Zion Church to clean it before they leave tomorrow. So, one more sleep, and my Little Bear will be jetting west to spend some time with Big before she heads off to college.

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The round barn on what was the Butcher’s Farm.

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And…the beat goes on.

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“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”

\nHebrews 13:20-21 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-07-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/07/29/day-thirteen-was-the-best.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/07/17/the-great-white.html", "title": "The Great White", "content_html": "\n
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We left the campground at 10:00 yesterday morning. I’m not going to share the name of the campground. I wasn’t terribly pleased with it, and I haven’t had the opportunity to speak with the owner, so I don’t want to give it a bad review based on the couple of things that I really didn’t like about it. Let’s just say…it’s centrally located and folks seemed to be fine with it. It just wasn’t my cup of tea.

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Little slept like a log through every train. Ahhhhh, the joys of youth. Kids can sleep through anything! The long drive home was a bit of a surprise. I don’t think Little had a concept how long it would take. It was ten hours driving back because we had to stop more often. Let’s just say, we were all really glad to get out of that truck. And Little and I camped in the field last night….with NO trains running 25’ from the camper…all night long!

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On our way back, we stopped at the West Virginia Welcome Center in White Sulphur Springs, WV. We hiked to the top of the hill above the rest area and checked out the view overlooking The Greenbrier Hotel…also known as “The Great White”. It’s a lovely edifice and it’s been forty years since I stayed there. I doubt it’s changed much. 

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We are looking forward to a little down time and pool time today. Maybe I’ll mow…maybe I won’t. As I wrote this, I was just too tired to care one way or the other. I hope you are enjoying a beautiful Sunday!

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“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.”

\nProverbs 17:6 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-07-17T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/07/17/the-great-white.html", "tags": ["Family","Camping","Road Trip","Littles","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/07/14/sweet-tea.html", "title": "Sweet Tea", "content_html": "\n
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Ahhhhh….sweet tea! Nectar of the gods. Southern house wine. There is nothing more refreshing on a hot summer day than a mason jar (or in this case, a Kerr jar) of southern sweet tea. The way the light shines through the amber richness. The way the sweat drips down the jar. The way the ice tinkles against the glass. I have to admit, there are indeed a zillion true souther ladies rolling in their graves when I say this, but…I don’t use sugar. I do like it sweet though, so I use stevia. Yesterday morning, I mixed up a batch of hummingbird juice for the feeder. I use a quart jar, put in one cup of granulated sugar and fill it to within a half inch or so from the top with water. I stir it with one of my wooden spoon so I don’t chip the rim. When I fill the feeder, I always have about a cup or so of the sugar water. So, I added ice and filled it the rest of the way with tea. It wasn’t quite sweet enough so I added on packet of stevia and it was perfect.

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When I was a little girl, my mom would take us to my Aunt Dixie’s house. She made the BEST iced tea. She started by putting a couple heaping spoonfuls of sugar in a heavy glass. She always used an iced tea spoon…you know, the long handled ones? She put in a Lipton tea bag and poured boiling water over the spoon to “cut the shock” so it wouldn’t break the glass. She only filled the glass about half full You stirred to dissolve the sugar and wished for it to cool faster. Then you filled the glass with ice cubes. The kind you cracked out of an aluminum ice cube tray. Now THAT…that was the very best iced tea I ever tasted and I’m sure it’s because it was made with love. I clearly remember the last time I sat at her table and asked her to make me a glass. I had just returned from England and was about to embark on my life out West. I never got the opportunity to ask for that tea again.

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As I sipped this ambrosia, i got to work and…the sweater is finished! It took me seventeen days. I would have had it done sooner, but there was mowing to be done and getting ready for this trip. And, it was a new pattern. I’ve never made a cardigan sweater before so there was a learning curve for me. I have to say, I really love this pattern and I’ll make more cardigans in the future. I did learn some things along the way. Bulky yarns and big needles make quick work but the ends are particularly hard to weave in and hide. There’s a lot less yarn per skein so you definitely need to buy more than you think. I was really happy the extra yarn I bought matched. And, while this yarn feels soft to the skin, the sweater is REALLY heavy. And I had to go over every join and woven end with a needle and thread to keep the yarn ends from working out. I’m worried that the yarn will pick easy so I need to show Big how to tuck in any loose ends. See that little white button on the backside of the sweater button? That anchors the button so it doesn’t pull out your yarn. those six little bone buttons came from my grandma’s (Big’s great great grandmother’s) button box. So, Big will be carrying a little piece of her ancestry with her. Overall it’s a beautiful Bippity Boppity Blue and I’m sure she’ll love it.

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The other big chore yesterday was changing out the actuator on the new camper. It’s not hard at all, but it was a two person job. The actuator is the motorized lift that helps raise the camper top. Unfortunately, the actuator broke when the roof was in the raised position. It took me a while to visualize what I needed to do to fix it. I unplugged the old one and removed it. Then I plugged the new one in and Mr. FixIt held the switch that extended the rod to match the same length of the broken one. That way, I was able to just slip the new one into place and fasten two nuts. Easy peasy! It went down like it was supposed to. There is a design flaw that makes the motor prone to catching rainwater in it. So I put silicone around the seams. Hopefully that will keep the water out.

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We’ll have a big day today driving nearly five hundred miles. Then we have a whirlwind thirty-six hours with the family. Therefore, I’m not going to write a post the next two nights. I’ll schedule something easy ahead of time and I’ll be back Sunday morning. 

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Prayers for travel mercies!

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???

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“And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.”

\nIsaiah 30:21 ESV\n
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\n\n", "date_published": "2022-07-14T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/07/14/sweet-tea.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/28/its-that-time-of-the.html", "title": "It’s That Time of the Trip", "content_html": "\n
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This is the point in the trip when I say to myself…”What on earth was I thinking??? I’m too old for this!” I got a decent start yesterday. There was a portion of the drive with no rain. And, there was a goodly portion where I thought maybe I’d made a wrong turn and was in a car wash! Holy cats!!! Of course, you have to slow WAY down, which adds time to your trip but give you a better chance of actually making it. Of course, if the truckers had their way, they would have used cow catchers on the front of their trucks to just move us slow pokes out of the way. Relaxing, it was not.

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I killed time by asking Siri to read me a story. The folks who program her have a great sense of humor and I soon found myself laughing out loud with delight. It’s the simple things. The sky lightened up in the middle of the day and I thought just maybe we were home free. But, not so much. The sky on the horizon got darker and darker the closer I got to the campground. I pulled into a grocery store to pick up something for supper. Mac and cheese I could heat up in the microwave. And a “superfoods salad”. Comfort balanced with healthy.

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As soon as I came out of the store, the sky opened with a vengeance. And, of course, when you are parking a camper, you have to park way out on the periphery. I waited a while but it didn’t look like it was going to ease up any time soon so I made a made dash for the truck. The upside was, the rain wasn’t freezing like a Colorado rain, so I was ok. I got to the campground and went into the office to sign in. There was a woman ahead of me, and by the time I got checked in, there was a line of campers out on the road. Oh, right…this is Memorial Day Weekend! Welcome to camping season! 

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The owner escorted me to my site, a pull though, than you God! I waved him off and just sat there till the rain slacked up a bit. It finally did and I got the camper set up. I am getting the hang of doing it quicker, but its still a king-sized pain in the patoot and it’s not going to work out for me. It’s one thing if you are going to a campsite and staying for a week or two. It’s quite a different deal if you are moving every day. NOT convenient for that kind of camping, but still a very cool camper overall.

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I’d have to say, the trip home is always more challenging. I’m tired. I’m cranky. I’m a month older. I haven’t had a shower in five days and I have to drive with me in the truck! I’m leaving this morning in time to get the camper to the dealership to fix what has now become a laundry list of things that shouldn’t need fixing on a brand new camper. I’ll gently yet persuasively give them a piece of my mind. I’ve been told I have a way of telling people to go to H E double toothpicks and they don’t seem to mind the trip. Maybe I can pull that off again!

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Mr. FixIt is waiting for me at home!

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?

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“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

\n2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-28T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/28/its-that-time-of-the.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Camping","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/27/the-calm-after-the-storm.html", "title": "The Calm After the Storm", "content_html": "\n
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Just when I was totally overwhelmed with camping and traveling and putting a camper up and down in the rain and doing it all by myself…along comes God and says, “Here…take a nice nap. And when you wake up, I’ll have something pretty for you to see!”

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I awoke yesterday morning to a chilly, gray, wet day that was thankfully not actively raining. I only had to drive through a little bit of drizzle a couple of times. I had my eye out for a coffee shop and was prepared to get a cuppa joe and a pastry when I saw…the sign! Perkins Pancake Shop!!! JUST what the doctor ordered. There is no schedule when you’re camping so I pulled in and sat down away from others. And enjoyed the HECK out of a nice hot breakfast with really GREAT coffee! I gave the waitperson a very nice tip because she was working her tail off. I wrote “God Bless You…have a great day!” on the receipt. It’s the little things.

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What a mood lifter! I toodled through the Iowa farmland as the early morning fog was lifting. The windmills reached their arms high, disappearing into the low hanging clouds, slicing through the air to bring much needed electricity a la Mother Nature. The fertile black earth has been furrowed and planted and neat rows of spring green corn is sprouting up everywhere. Herds of black cattle with their babies in tow dotted the fields on either side of the road. The constant hum of the wheels on the road set the backdrop of my silent journey east.

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I crossed the Mighty Mississippi at Davenport, Iowa keeping my eyes carefully on the single lane crossing the bridge. It’s “orange cone season” for sure. As I turned south on I-74, I watched the sky growing heavy and dark in the direction I was heading. I often ask Siri multiple questions as I drive. For instance, she can tell me, based on my speed and the local traffic, just how long it should take me to get to my destination. When I asked her what the weather was doing in Galesburg, Illinois, she confirms my suspicions. There was a thunderstorm when I was heading.

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Fortunately, the storm was moving northeast while I was moving southeast and I did not have to put the camper up in the rain. I had it set up in no time and settled inside to eat my lunch and stretch out for a nap. I was awakened by the sound of rain on the roof and lay there listening. I love that sound. After a while, the rain stopped and the light outside turned golden. I grabbed my phone and headed down the through the tunnel of trees to the lake where I knew a spectacular sunset was coming. 

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All those beautiful clouds reflected the most gorgeous light down across the lake and into my very soul. God reminds us that…even in the darkest of times…there is beauty in His creation. I hold onto His promises in times like these and remember this is not my home. I’m just passing through. 

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And with that, I leave you with His handiwork.

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Allison Lake Storey Campground - Galesburg, Illinois

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?

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“And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.”

\nMatthew 8:26 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-27T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/27/the-calm-after-the-storm.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","The Grand Adventure","goRVing","God","Peaceful Moments","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/08/day-four-was-a-doozy.html", "title": "Day Four was a Doozy!", "content_html": "\n
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I woke up at 5:30 yesterday morning and couldn’t get back to sleep. I couldn’t get the camper together because quiet hours last till 7:00 and besides…it’s the weekend. There’s nothing worse than sleeping soundly in your wonderful camper, only to hear the person next door lifting their jacks and clunking around. I waited till 7:30 then I tried to be as quiet as I could. People were already moving around, so I hope I didn’t disturb them too much.

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I got on the road about 8:30. I checked the road reports and the weather and was concerned to see the conditions deteriorating in western Nebraska throughout the day and into the night. Strong winds, hail, and severe thunderstorms were predicted. As I’ve told you, this camper can’t go up or down in strong winds, so I told Mr. FixIt I was going to have to play it by ear as I got closer. 

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About the last fifty to seventy-five miles were brutal. The winds were blowing so strong straight at me that it was making my truck gear down! I’ve never experienced that before. At first, I was afraid something was wrong with my truck, then I figured it out. There was no way I could camp at Lake McConaughy, which was disappointing. 

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I pulled into the Walmart gas station in Ogallala and plugged my son-in-law’s mom’s address in the GPS to see how much further it was. It was only another 200-some miles…about 3.5 hours of driving. It was 1:30 (Mountain Time) and I would much rather be with family than stay in a hotel. So, I made the executive decision to just drive the rest of the way. That made 470 miles the first day, 333 the second, and 530 the third! I didn’t HAVE to put my camper up…I could have stayed in the house. But I so love having my own little bed and play house!

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And now…I’m whupped. I need to acclimate slowly to the altitude and not get overheated. It was 90 degrees when I got here yesterday. I’ll sleep in, sip on my electrolytes, and be a happy little camper. I thanked God repeatedly for the travel mercies. Let me thank you for all your prayers and words of encouragement. It was a fun drive!

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Happy Mother’s Day!!!

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?

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“So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.”

\nHebrews 4:9-10 ESV\n
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#MothersDay, #RoadTrip, #Colorado

\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-08T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/08/day-four-was-a-doozy.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Travel","Camping","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/07/day-three-was-great.html", "title": "Day Three Was Great!", "content_html": "\n
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Yesterday was by far my easiest day yet. I woke up around 7:30 and was catching up with my correspondence when the camper suddenly shook from a gust of wind. A storm front was coming through and I needed to get moving…fast. These a-frame campers are awesome, but there are a few drawbacks with them. You should not put them up or take them down when it’s windy. The two half’s of the roof are only connected with something akin to bungee cords and a very strong wind could send them flying in opposite directions. 

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I threw my stuff together quickly and got it from the camper to the truck, then carefully lowered the top and was ready to go in record time. I love when I don’t have to unhook my camper. It makes for a quick exit in the morning. The rain quit as soon as I sat in the truck. I got on the road by 9:00 and headed west. Well…north, then west. I drove up and picked up I-80. Even though it is a major trucking route, it’s not nearly as crazy as I-70 is. 

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I don’t find Iowa boring at all. I love all the beautiful farms, the windmills, and the gently rolling hills. I only stopped once or twice at the cleanest and prettiest rest areas I’ve ever seen. I took a fifteen minute break and chatted with you all on a FB Live…which is always fun! One of these times through, I need to set up a meet in greet at places along the way! I’d love to meet you all sometime! I caught up with a lot of people on the phone which was lovely.

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This is one of those trips where I’m flying by the seat of my pants. I made no reservations, and so far, I’ve had great luck finding campsites. It’s the time of year. The kids are still in school and the weather has been crappy so I have better luck getting spots. When I got into the campground last night and registered, I was given several site choices. I drove around to see what was available and selected the one I wanted. I went to the office and informed them of my choice and by the time I got back, there was a young couple setting up a tent and they already had their music blasting. I backed into my site and rolled down the window to listen. Nope.

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I pulled back out of the spot and headed to the office to request a different site. I am not picky, but I am too old to pay to listed to young kids party. They should have a great time..fine. I just don’t need to camp next to them if I can help it. I chose a much smaller area and got set up in record time. I ate supper from the cooler and stretched out to write. There is a camper nearby playing music. That’s ok, I understand that. Some people want the music as an accompaniment to the camping experience. Me? I want to hear birds, not the BeeGees. (Ok, they’re old, too! lol) So, I just turned on my sound machine and wrote my post as usual.

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Oh…I have something really cool to tell you. You’ve heard me say many times how God provides my every need? Well, I was lamenting to Mr. FixIt last night how expensive the gas is in the Midwest. He called me later to tell me I got a letter in the mail from the State of Colorado Department of the Treasury with a check for $284! He took a picture and sent it to me. It turns out, there is an unclaimed property division and they track down people who have money coming to them. This must have been something to do with Mr. Virgo. He had an account with the bank the letter mentioned. Just a little gift from God to offset the higher gas prices. Our God is such a good provider!

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So, today I drive across Nebraska. If it goes like yesterday, it’ll be a piece of cake. Hopefully, there will be dry roads and sane drivers. And, finally…I should be in Colorado some time tomorrow!

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?

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“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

\nMatthew 11:28 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-07T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/07/day-three-was-great.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/06/day-two-is-in-the.html", "title": "Day Two is in The Books!", "content_html": "\n
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I didn’t sleep well the first night on the road. You know how it is when you get out of your routine and you don’t drink enough water or eat the right stuff. And, my brain was still moving when I finally laid my head on the pillow. I did sleep…but fitfully. And there’s not a lot of places to wander around in this tiny camper. I could have made a cup of tea, but it all seemed like too much bother at 3:00am. 

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I fiddled around once I finally woke up and by the time I got hooked up and on the road, it was already 10:00! I forgot to check my tire pressure before I left the campground so I pulled into a service station. The machine was broken and it crossed me to actually LOSE air pressure. I went to another one, and it was broken as well! They should have a sign on them and it didn’t even occur to me to see if there was a phone number I could call to complain. Lesson learned.

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I decided to drive the three miles back to the campground and ask if I could plug in my extension cord and pump up my tires with the portable air compressor I carry with me at all times. She did me one better. She had me pull around to the back and her husband pumped up my tires for me with his big air compressor. The folks who own Grandpa’s Farm Campground in Richmond, IN are the best. And…if you ever travel through and stay over on a Saturday night, they have Camp Church on Sundays…complete with coffee and donuts! Check them out if you have the opportunity.

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I no sooner got on the road till the rain hit. Everything from drizzle to downpour and back again on a gray and murky day. I-70 was absolutely crazy! And they are still working on it…with big portions closed…in Indianapolis. I am driving the northerly route and cut across Illinois on a diagonal. I wanted to get as far north of the bad storms as I can. The relief I felt was palpable when I left all that traffic behind and sailed along through America’s bread basket. Beautiful farmland…rich, dark, and flat stretched out on either side…anxiously waiting to burst forth their bounty. This far north, the redbud looks like it did on our way to the beach in the middle of April. They haven’t quite started to gain their brilliant green leaves that contrast so beautifully with the fading purply-pink of their blossoms.

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I had a long talk with my precious friend, Sparky as I drove through the rain yesterday. I miss her so desperately. I try not to focus on that loss too much as it hurts so deeply. I told her I would never go on a camping trip again without “taking her with me”. She hated camping but she went anyway. I hated losing her…but she died anyway. This is what she gets for leaving me…camping revenge. I may hear about this when I get to see her again…but she’ll just have to deal with it for now!

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I stopped at a rest area in the middle of the sprawling farmland for a rest. Now, this is the first time I’ve come up against a downside of this kind of popup camper. I can’t just hop out of the truck, run back to the camper, and stretch out for a nap, use the potty, and eat some lunch. If the weather were nicer, I could certainly have popped up the camper and taken a snooze, but I’m not doing that in a downpour. So, I rummages around in the truck and found a small blanket. I created a turban around my head, leaned the seat back, and slept for an hour. I was so refreshed when I awoke. 

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I grabbed a snack and hear the man in the semi next to me calling out for my attention. I rolled the window down slightly and he asked how I like my camper. He and his lady friend bought one recently and this weekend will be their first outing. He’s never camped before and they are going to see the country together. I had to smile. He is retired Army. He did three tours in Iraq, for which I thanked him profusely. We had a lovely chat and I wished him a fun and abundant life on the road. 

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I knew I was getting close to the campground I stayed at last night when I passed a sign for Pekin, IL. My grandparents lived in Mishawaka, IN when my mom was born, then they moved to Pekin, IL and two or three more babies came along. They moved around to find work during the depression and this was where they landed before returning home to West Virginia. If the weather had been nicer, I might have gotten out and looked around but as it was…I moved on down the road.

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I was a little puzzled when I saw the time of my projected arrival come and go on the GPS. That’s when I suddenly realized, I had crossed over the date line between Eastern and Central time. Which meant…I had another hour to go! I don’t know why I forget that every time. It’s not bad coming in the other direction because it feels like you’re not driving as long. But going west forces you to change your expectations.

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As I was nearing the end of day two, I sent up a prayer and asked God to ease up on this rain so I could get set up without getting soaked. He was so generous to oblige when the rain stopped about 10 minutes before I got to the campground. I got a beautiful site…flat and level, with a nice view. I didn’t have to unhook so it was no time before I had everything set up and I was comfortably snuggled in the Big Birdhouse. I fixed supper from the stuff in the cooler and settled in to write my daily letter to you all.

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Another day done. Mr. FixIt worked on the new fire-pit today then went to the youngest granddaughter’s softball game. It’s a busy time of year for everyone and I’m thrilled to be spending it doing something I love…driving and camping…and heading toward people that I love. So…stay tuned for another installment of…The Grand Adventure!

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“And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.””

\nExodus 33:14 ESV\n
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It was a really busy day. Mr. FixIt helped me get the truck loaded up. I got on the road about 9:45 which was pretty respectable. I was really surprised I got such a good night’s sleep before. I have to give credit where credit is due…Jesus has been working overtime catching all my cares! I stopped for gas. Did you know that if you download the app for Walmart, you can get $.03 off per gallon? Every little bit helps.

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I stopped by the DMV because I couldn’t put my finger on the title for the truck. I always carry my titles with me in case I need to trade in a vehicle in an emergency. I was worried it would take a long time to get out of there, but I didn’t even sit down and they called my number. They weren’t busy at all. That’s another secret…go early on Wednesdays and you can get in and out of the DMV pretty quickly.

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I got to the RV Service Center around 12:30. The part didn’t get in and I told them I really needed to get moving. I brought a great cooler with me and I’ll just use that. It’ll be fine. I did notice one thing, the hitch was set too low for the camper and the nose was lower than the rear. I stopped in at the place where we bought it to see Gabe, the awesome trailer dude who did our walk through. He sent his techs out and they fixed it and I was on my way!

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I stopped to get some groceries before I got on I-70 and put them in the cooler. I was disappointed to find I cannot open the tailgate on the truck while it’s connected to the camper so I needed to unhook when I got to my campsite…something I was hoping I didn’t need to do. I went through some of the stuff in the truck and moved what was necessary for last night into the camper. The rest I’ll deal with when I stop tonight. I need to keep a weather eye out today as there is a storm coming up from Oklahoma. Traveling through the central part of America is dicey at this time of year. 

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Oh, I figured out a couple things yesterday. First, these little twin beds are so much easier to make than the big bed that’s turned sideways in a lot of the campers today. I ordered cot sized mattress pads and sheets online and they fit perfectly. However, I knew they would slip off easily with tossing and turning. So, I bought some of those stretchy sheet grippers and put four of them, evenly spaced, completely across the back to hold everything in place. Bingo! Problem solved!

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Another thing I did…when I hooked up the camper at the dealership, I wanted to check the brake lights and the flashers. The turn signals were easy. You just turn one on and go back to check it then you turn the other one on and do the same. That won’t work for testing the brakes. I puzzled over it for a minute, then I took my cell phone, opened the camera app, propped the camera up against the chain link fence and started the video. Then I went up and pressed on the brakes and turned on the flashers. When I replayed the video, I could see they were all working fine!

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I was pretty chilly yesterday. I am really glad I still have the electric blanket and heater in the camper because it was supposed to get down to 47° last night! I was really whupped by the time I got everything done and wrote this post. Today won’t be nearly as hectic as yesterday was so I won’t be so tired at the end of the day. (I had to laugh…Mr. FixIt and I talked and texted at least a dozen times. You’d think we hadn’t been together 24/7 for the last three years! lol)

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?

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“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.”

\nPsalm 127:2 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-05T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/05/first-day-done.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/04/another-grand-adventure-begins.html", "title": "Another Grand Adventure Begins!", "content_html": "\n
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May the Fourth be With You!!!

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I’ve lost count how many Grand Adventures this makes. The other day, Mr. FixIt was talking to one of his friends about my upcoming trip. He told the fellow I was about to embark on another adventure and will be pulling the camper to Colorado by myself. The guy was shocked. He said, “I don’t think I’d let MY wife do that!” Mr. FixIt laughed. “You don’t LET your wife do things. You support them doing the things they want to do that makes them happy!” Have I mentioned how much I love this man??? We haven’t spent more than a few days apart in the last three years. I’m going to miss him like crazy!!!

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I have the portable kitchen packed. I have my clothes packed. I have the knitting projects I want to work on and the magazines I want to read. I made a wonderful supper of baked steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, and my home canned half-runners. (I’m going to need to can another bushel this fall.) I have a stock of Mr. Bee Potato Chips for the family. I searched like crazy and finally found the “add-a-pearl necklace” that Hubby #1 gave me when I turned eighteen. Now it goes to Big as her graduation gift. 

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I have the truck in tiptop shape. I need to make a few stops on my way out of town today, then it’s just me, Mavis (my GPS), my Rand McNally Atlas and the open road. 

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Even with the bad stuff happening around the world…life is good, y’all! And if you don’t like what’s happening…VOTE! And pray…a lot!!!

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?

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“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

\nPsalm 23:3 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-04T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/04/another-grand-adventure-begins.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Big Birdhouse"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/03/the-sweet-smell-of-spring.html", "title": "The Sweet Smell of Spring", "content_html": "\n
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We are solidly in spring now. Tornado season is cranking up, and so my thoughts turn to the drive across tornado alley in the coming days. My living room is in utter chaos as I begin ardently sorting and deciding what I honestly need to take rather than doing what I usually do…throw everything but the kitchen sink in the truck and never use a tenth of it. The struggle is real.

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The RV dealership called me this morning to let me know they have a tracking number for the part they ordered for my fridge. They expect it to arrive today…tomorrow morning at the latest. I told them that was good, because one way or another, I’m taking the camper tomorrow. I can’t wait any longer…I need to hit the road.

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We went to town last evening for the youngest granddaughter’s senior night for softball. It was a BBQ, and afterwards, the kids played the parents in kickball which was loads of fun. I knitted as we sat and chatted with the former Mrs. FixIt. When we got home and I walked into that messy living room…my anxiety started to rise. Am I going to be ready to go tomorrow? What was that I was supposed to remember? Oy! Instead of freaking out, I sat down with my knitting and worked a couple of rows. Then I started writing my post for today, and soon I was feeling all zen again. 

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It is so easy to borrow time from the future and spend it before you even get it…all in your mind, of course. Every time a scenario presented itself in my Nervous Nelly brain, I tossed that ball over to Jesus and reminded myself, I cannot tell the future. It could turn out 1000% different than I could ever dream anyway. Every time I bring myself back to where I am in the current moment, my blood pressure goes down and I can breathe again.

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One of the most beautiful harbingers of spring is the sweet smelling lily of the valley. We had these sweet little flowers growing by the steps to our front porch when I was a child. I distinctly remember picking them and inhaling their heady fragrance deep to my core and thinking there was nothing finer in this world than a spring day. I went to my friend’s on Sunday to pick something up and he had me pinch off a sprig to smell on my way home. What a trip down memory lane. 

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I have a video consult with my endocrine surgeon this morning at 9:00 then I can go full tilt packing for the trip. In the meantime, I’m just going to chill and enjoy the process. 

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?

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“And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat.”

\nMark 6:31 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/03/the-sweet-smell-of-spring.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/05/02/farm-living-at-its-best.html", "title": "Farm Living at its Best", "content_html": "\n
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We live on five beautiful fairly flat acres in West Virginia. To say we are “hobby farmers” is a stretch. We’re more like a sod farm that doesn’t harvest and sell our sod. We grow a few things. And, other than the cat, we have no livestock. We basically have a really large yard that we keep mowed because it brings us such joy and peace. Not only the act of mowing, which is highly therapeutic, but also the looks of the verdant green when the afternoon sun hits it just so. The air gets a bit of a golden green glow and…well, it’s just lovely. And we feel so blessed to be its stewards.

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I know many of you wish I’d keep at least part of it for pollinators. I keep thinking I will…then spring comes and I’m itching to get out there on the mower for my “farmer fix”. I keep ruminating, and perhaps next year will be the change. But, for now, I’m keeping like it is. It makes me happy. And, Lord knows…there’s so much sad in the world. We all need a little more happy.

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Yes today was not the lay low day of rest I was planning on. Since I’m leaving midweek for Colorado, Mr. FixIt needed me to help him with a few things he can’t do alone. We went out on the deck and put the cover over the pergola. Some of the market lights seem to have gathered moisture during the winter so I removed the covers and dried them out so we can light them. Then I went out to change the turn signal bulb in the driver’s side mirror. 

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I watched the YouTube video that showed exactly how to do it. I wasn’t sure I was going to be successful because it was really complicated. And, since it’s such a tiny space to reach behind, I had to use my headlamp in order to see back there. With a great dial of fiddling around and moving the mirror this way and that, I finally got it off there, removed the front cover, and replaced the bulb fixture. When I turned on the engine and flipped the turn signal, it was still making the rapid clicking which indicates a burned out bulb. 

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I couldn’t figure out why it would do that till I went to the back of the truck. It turns out, on the rear of the truck, there are two bulbs on each side for the turn signal…an upper and a lower. The lower was burned out. I put the light housing back in place so I could take Mr. FixIt’s truck and get a replacement bulb in the auto store in our little burg. I also ran over to my friend’s house to pick up something he had for me as a memento from my friend Diane who passed away in December.

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When I got home, Mr. FixIt was adjusting the hitch a little higher for the camper. I needed to help him with that before I could work on the turn signal, but we made quick work of it and were done in no time. Then I hopped on the riding mower to finish the last of the mowing for the week. By that time, Mr. FixIt needed to get ready to go to his end of the year bowling banquet. He only substituted this year so he didn’t bowl very much, but he still loves to go to the banquet and visit with the folks…some of whom he has bowled with for over 35 years.

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I finally sat down and knitted for a while in the quiet of the evening. I listened to the birds, then the thunder, and finally the rain. Another day is done. Two more sleeps and it’s time to go on a road trip! 

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You up for an adventure???

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?

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“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”

\n1 Peter 3:7 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-05-02T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/05/02/farm-living-at-its-best.html", "tags": ["Farm Life","Road Trip","Fitness"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/04/29/yet-another-trip-to-town.html", "title": "Yet Another Trip to Town", "content_html": "\n
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I loved those weeks during the winter when we went a whole week or more without driving to town once. I get so tired of that drive…even though I love driving and the countryside is beautiful. It’s just that, there’s no such thing as a “quick trip”. Every trip turns into a full day ordeal and all I want to do is get home and do stuff that needs doing. After the trip to the beach, we have either been in town or at the farm every day or spending all day mowing…every single day. 

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I thought we’d have an at home day yesterday, but I woke up and told Mr. FixIt I’d better get to the DMV and get the plates for the new camper so I can get them on for the trip. While I was in town, I decided to go get the oil changed and the tires rotated on the truck. I had to wait nearly two hours so I ran over to the pharmacy to pick up my meds then settled in to knit for a little while.

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I still have a couple of yarns left from earlier trips to the beach so I picked one with beautiful muted primary colors. About three years ago, I had some yarn in a basket and when we were expecting the great grandkids over, I hid the basket behind the loveseat so they couldn’t get in the yarn. Things got busy and I didn’t get back to knitting for quite some times. When I got back into knitting this winter, I pulled out that yarn and two or three of the yarn were just ruined by moths. 

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I salvaged this one and thought I might have success with it. But, alas…I ran into three places that had been damaged before I was even finished with the toe. You really can’t knit something with multiple strands tied together so I just chucked it in the trash and decided it was a lesson learned. I need to place these yarns in the freezer before I store them in bags with cedar chips or lavender to keep the moths out of them. It’s a shame to have to throw out beautiful and expensive yarns.

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The other day, I noticed the turn signal light on the driver’s side mirror has a lamp out. I tried to buy one at the auto parts store but was told I have to get it from the Ford dealership. I ran over to the parts department and…guess what? They had to order it and it’ll be in this morning. That means…ANOTHER drive to town! Argh!

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Meanwhile, I bought a beautiful hydrangea for the former Mrs. FixIt for her upcoming birthday. Since I’m leaving for the Colorado Adventure next week, I wasn’t sure I’d get to see her again before I go so I swung by her house on my way home. I really like her a lot. She showed me around her flower gardens. I am in awe of her green thumb! I could kill a silk plant…no lie.

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So, after we go to town to get the light bulb for the truck, we’ll head out to the farm to fix the water pump on the well. Remember how I told you as soon as mowing season hit, we wouldn’t have a spare minute? Well, I wasn’t kidding! I’m not complaining…I love doing it (except for all those trips to town, that is). It keeps me young and healthy and there’s no place I would rather live than in West Virginia country and no one I’d rather be with than my sweet man.

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It’s Friday all ready. This time next week, I’ll be on the road to see my Colorado peeps! I can hardly wait!!!!!

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?

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“Wisdom is with the aged, and understanding in length of days.”

\nJob 12:12 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-04-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/04/29/yet-another-trip-to-town.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Choices","Road Trip","Control"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2022/02/02/pink-flamingos-and-minions.html", "title": "Pink Flamingos and Minions", "content_html": "\n
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I wish I could have had a blowout birthday party for my sweetheart. You don’t turn 70 every day! But, covid precautions and an upcoming surgery is keeping me close to home and pretty sheltered, so I’ll have to make it up to him when the weather warms up and we can party outside! My bonus son came to the house and decorated the yard for his dad’s special day. He asked Mr. FixIt what he wanted for his birthday. Since we are all about experiences over stuff, the guys will go out for a day of golf come springtime.

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We have been keeping a weather eye out and it looks like the cold front and ice storm are sliding into Ohio tomorrow. My poor Mr. FixIt spent his birthday taking the truck in for an oil change and tire rotation. Then I had him go looking for chains for the truck…just in case we need them to get to the hospital on Friday morning. We’ll head up there early to avoid any ice. I’d rather pay an extra day for a hotel than to get stuck somewhere. And even if we don’t need the chains this trip, it’s not a bad idea to have them should we need to make a trip to town for an emergency and the roads are bad. Ever the Girl Scout.

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I didn’t have the outside light on when Mr. FixIt came home last night, so he didn’t see the Happy Birthday greeting till he got to the back door. I loved seeing the look on his face, but when he found out his son came out to do that for him, he really melted. Men have such soft spots for their kids, and when they do special things, they just go all gooey.

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I cleaned up the kitchen and baked an apple pie for my sweetheart instead of a birthday cake. Then I worked on the sweater I’m knitting. I had to study the pattern, and look at a YouTube video to double check how to do one of the step. Eventually I had it figured out and I’m working down the body of the sweater now. I tried it on and took a picture to send to my friend Gail to see what she thought. Gail is an amazing knitter. She has been knitting so long, she just makes things…often without a pattern. She knows how to adjust patterns for size and how to choose the right yarns for a project. She sent me a picture yesterday of the newest granddaughter in a hat and matching mittens she had just whipped up. Amazing!

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So, the adventure begins today instead of tomorrow. Our room has a separate bedroom with a door so Mr. FixIt can watch his shows and I can keep myself in the calm zone before surgery. I’m taking my knitting and of course, my writing goes wherever I go. You should see us when we stay in a hotel. We each have an overnight bag and a big trash bag with our favorite pillows. Mine also includes my favorite fuzzy blankies. We have a cooler and a snack bag. I have my portable desk and he has his hanging clothes. Then there’s my purse which is the size of a small tote bag and my knitting…which actually IS in a tote bag. You’d think we were staying a couple of weeks instead of a couple of days. But, we’re always comfortable, we have what we want to keep us busy, and we don’t get all freaked out that we forgot something. If we ever do, there are stores.

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Prayers for travel mercies, please!

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❄️❤️❄️

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“The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.”

\nNahum 1:7 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2022-02-02T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2022/02/02/pink-flamingos-and-minions.html", "tags": ["Health","Road Trip","Crafts"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/10/18/when-you-find-a-great.html", "title": "When You Find a Great Place to Stay, Stay There!", "content_html": "\n
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Big Bird! A lot like Birdie, but bigger, with twin beds so the dinette stays up, and more storage!

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We are camping at a beautiful state park we’ve never been to before. Our initial plan was to stay here a couple of nights, then head toward Gettysburg and tour the historic sites…something I’ve always wanted to do. We sat in the sun yesterday afternoon and had lunch surrounded by falling leaves. The weather is cool with lots of puffy white clouds in the clear blue sky. We are steps from a huge lake. And, we’re tired.

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Camping on a lazy Sunday afternoon!

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We’ve been running around like crazy this year with SO much driving. And, here we are with this really great new camper in a really great new (to us) state park so…we decided to just stay here for a few more days. We drove around the park with the site availability map open on my cell phone and picked a beautiful site tucked in the woods. It sits far enough away from the road that the noise is minimal and it’s just a short walk to the lake. It’s a win/win, I think.

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The campsite we had the last two nights. The sites are spread out and surrounded by trees.

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Our truck is packed to the gills with a lot of the camping gear that came out of TOW-Wanda and Birdie. We are trying to figure out just exactly what we really NEED for the new camper and where and how to store it most efficiently. We don’t want to just throw things in this camper all willy-nilly then wonder where we put it. Staying put will give us time to do just that. And to rest and enjoy CAMPING…not just sleeping in the camper one night then moving to the next place like we did to and from Colorado.

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A camp breakfast…a steaming plate of ham and eggs!

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I love the fact that I’ve spent more nights sleeping in a camper this summer than I ever have…other than the time I traveled full time. Camping is “the great escape”. My dear friend Ben would beg to differ with me. He grew up farming in northeastern Colorado and spent far more nights than he would ever want to remember sleeping outside to beat the heat in a house without air conditioning or fans. Or sleeping in the hay loft. Or just outside on the ground. Camping isn’t fun to him.

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The view out the big window over the kitchen!

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I know it’s not fun to a lot of people. But for me? It’s like living in the children’s books featuring The Boxcar Children. It’s like my childhood fantasy of riding my bike to Canada. It’s the soothing place that helped heal my broken heart after losing Mr. Virgo. And, it’s the place my sweet Mr. FixIt and I can go to escape the workaday world of life on five acres. We only have to mow another time or two. And before long, the snow will fly and Big Bird will be tucked away for the winter in our building…hopefully! We still need to clear out a space for her.

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The view out the skylight right over our heads!

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But, for now…we are celebrating our “Anniversary Month”, enjoying our new treasure, and getting the rest we need. That is a gift worth it’s weight in gold!

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?

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“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

\nMatthew 6:33 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-10-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/10/18/when-you-find-a-great.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Gratitude","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Marriage","Big Bird"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/28/the-call-of-the-wild.html", "title": "The Call of the Wild", "content_html": "\n
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Ever since I downloaded the birding app…Merlin, from the Cornell Lab…my ears perk up when I hear a bird. I’m beginning to notice if it’s a call I haven’t heard before. We are in the midst of a massive display of birds as they migrate south for the winter. The chances of hearing a new one is pretty big right now.

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As I prepared to write my post last night, I caught the call of an unfamiliar bird. It was rapidly getting dark out and this bird was very close in our forsythia and flowering quince thicket outside our bedroom window. I quickly pulled out my phone and recorded the bird’s call and the app identified it as a Swainson’s Thrush. I did not set eyes on the bird itself, but so far this app has been really accurate in identifying bird calls.

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When my youngest went off to kindergarten and I was walking in Glenwood Canyon every day for exercise, I took a geology class to give me something to look for and explore as I walked. It passed the time, I learned new things, and it gave me a greater understanding and appreciation for my surroundings. That’s the way this app is for me. I am a lifelong learner. Any time I can learn new things, I’m a happy camper.

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We left yesterday morning at 7:30 to go to Columbus for my parathyroid scan. They’re still trying to find the two that went AWOL during surgery. It was a very long day. A Sestamibi scan isn’t hard to do. They give you an injection of a nuclear isotope, then they wait fifteen minutes and do the first scan. The first scan takes about ten minutes to do. The hardest part is laying very still after they tell you NOT to move! My ankle itched. My elbow hurt. I had a hair tickling my nose. But I did not move.

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An hour later, they do the second scan. This time with a CT machine. That one takes twenty-five minutes. I made the time pass by counting to sixty twenty-five times. I didn’t make it…I kept falling asleep. The third and final scan is just like the first one…ten minutes of laying perfectly still. They handed me a card with my name and the name and amount of the radioactive isotope they gave me. The technician told me if I have to go through an airport scanner, I would set it off and to show TSA the card. Cool! Now I want to make reservations and fly somewhere before it leaves my body in three days!

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The Nuclear Medicine tech was the nicest guy. His name was Mike. We made small talk. Somehow, Marshmallow Ranch came up…I mean, when DOESN’T it come up, right? Anyway, mike says when the kids are all grown and off on their own (they have SIX!), his wife is all about getting an RV and cruising the country full time. He said he was the one unconvinced. I gave him some sage advice…have his wife join Girl Camper and listen to the podcasts and learn all things camping and try it out for a year or two before committing to the whole enchilada.

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I don’t regret the way my story unfolded, but maybe I should have held onto my Colorado house and leased it out or used it as an AirB&B. But, then again…if I had, I may not have ended up dating Mr. FixIt at all. And that would be tragic to have missed all the fun and love we have together. By the third scan, Mike informed me he’d had lunch with his wife and she was going to look up Marshmallow Ranch. So, Mrs. Mike…if you’re here, welcome to this wild ride. As my Mr. FixIt says… “There’s always an adventure with Ginny McKinney!”

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?

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“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”

\nJeremiah 17:14 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-28T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/28/the-call-of-the-wild.html", "tags": ["Health","Overcoming Obstacles","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/24/mums-the-word.html", "title": "Mum’s the Word", "content_html": "\n
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It’s mum season. Pumpkin spice everything is everywhere. I’m sorta kinda ready this time. I always hate seeing summer leave us, but I know we will have stretches of “Indian Summer” in a little while so there’s still lots of time to get out and do fun things. I was too busy yesterday to take any photos for this morning’s blog, so I went through my archives and chose some pictures I took of beautiful autumn flowers to share with you today.

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I always say I’m going to plant flowers “this year”…but I end up looking at the price tags and thinking… “I could have a great camping trip with that money!” So, I drive around and visit nurseries and take some great photos. They’re free, they never die, and I can pull them up and look at them whenever I want. I can kill a silk plant…seriously. I’m always amazed at the flowers we have outside that I haven’t managed to kill. That’s because I leave it all up to God to do the gardening. I’m just along for the joy ride.

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Mr. FixIt changed the oil in my truck for me yesterday in preparation for my trip to camp with the girls this weekend. The weather has really taken a turn and it’s predicted to be pretty darned chilly. I rummaged around in the guest closet yesterday afternoon, pulled out an electric blanket and set it by the front door to take with me. I have leggings and sweatshirts packed. I’ll find my hiking boots and wool socks and put them in the truck. I think I’ll even take a heavy coat for sitting around the fire. I have my small ceramic heater in the camper already. The furnace for the camper is actually located under the dinette, which is currently down in a twin bed position, so I can’t light it. It doesn’t matter though…that little electric heater really warms up a small camper in no time.

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I always wait till I get to the town nearest my destination before I buy what I need to contribute to the communal meals when I camp with a bunch of girlfriends. That works out really well with this little a-frame camper. Normally, I would just go in and fill the fridge and pantry in a bigger camper. But I’d have to pop this one up in order to get in and that isn’t feasible. This way, I can just drive the last ten minutes, get set up, and then put everything away. 

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I went through my camping supplies yesterday that I keep packed and ready to go. I use a rechargeable drill to lower and raise the stabilization jacks on my campers. I know I had the charger for my drill earlier this summer in preparation for camping. But now I can’t find it anywhere. So… “Mr. FixIt’s Mercantile” to the rescue again. He has one of everything and two of most, so I just raided one of his drills and chargers. I charged the battery up in it to make sure it’s working right for when I set up today. I may not have been a full-fledged Girl Scout, but I was a Brownie…and that’s pretty close! I like to have every possible scenario covered…just in case.

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I have food prepared for Mr. FixIt for when I’m gone. I made a big pot of spaghetti sauce yesterday and we had it over spaghetti squash last night. SO good! It’s so packed with meat, he can eat it like a Sloppy Joe, or add beans and chili powder and have a nice pot of chili for the weekend. He has sandwich fixin’s and a full pantry, so he isn’t going to starve. I just like to leave him some “love in a pot” when I go somewhere so I know he’s well cared for.

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He has plenty to do to keep him busy. It’s time to close the pool for the year. The garden needs pulled up. The burn pile is growing ever larger so that could use doing. What I really hope he does is put his feet up, call a friend, take a nap, watch a movie. If I’m going to be out playing with the girls, he should be relaxing, as well.

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And, so…it is autumn.

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“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

\nIsaiah 40:8 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-24T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/24/mums-the-word.html", "tags": ["Camping","Comfort","Change","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Friends","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/23/home-is-where-you-park.html", "title": "Home is Where You Park Birdie", "content_html": "\n
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It rained all Tuesday night in Indiana. We awoke to a veritable pond surrounding our camper. I said a little prayer the night before that there would be at least a small break in the downpour…just enough to get things packed up and on the road. When I woke up, I listened. Nothing! The rain had stopped for the moment. I sprang up out of bed, threw on my clothes and told Mr. FixIt he’d better hustle his butt up out of bed because I was closing up shop as fast as I could. We were up, dressed, packed, and on the road in less than fifteen minutes. Good thing, too…it started raining again with a vengeance.

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I-70 is a barrel race with automobiles, trucks, tractor trailers, RV’s…it’s crazy. Add some really heavy rain and road construction and you’ve got white-knuckle driving extraordinaire! I was SO glad to turn off the “I-70 Raceway” onto US-33 and ease on down the road to West Virginia. We are always pleased as punch to see that “Welcome to West Virginia” sign over the bridge as you cross the Ohio into Almost Heaven Land. Even more so yesterday.

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We had just passed Lancaster, Ohio when we went around a curve and…all the windows in the truck fogged up at once. I looked at the thermometer on the dash and we went up ten degrees in just a couple of miles. We had crossed through the cold front. Things were about to get interesting. Those few miles in front of a moving cold front are dicey. The abrupt temperature change causes winds and heavy rain in most cases and by heavy rain, I mean car wash heavy. I hit standing water on the highway and couldn’t see the vehicles around me. For a split second, my foot said “HIT THE BRAKES!” Fortunately, my brain was there with “Not so fast, Jack!” Mr. FixIt and I both had our noses as close to the windshield as we could get and in a few hundred feet, the sky cleared up. There were cars and trucks and RV’s parked on both sides of the highway where they took shelter. That’s too scary for me. I just stay in the middle lane with my emergency flashers on and keep moving careful forward. I feel safer that way.

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We stopped and picked up the cat from the Kitty Hilton. I expect one of these days, Mr. FixIt will decide it’s cheaper for him to just stay home with the cat and let me go on these trips by myself. Wowza!

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We got home just before it started raining again. I refused to go inside at first. I hate when a trip is over. So, I stretched out in the camper, watched the rain on the back window, and relaxed. Mr. FixIt will change the oil today…unless it’s too wet, which is highly likely. In that case, I’ll run to town to get it changed. And tomorrow, I head off to camp with some of my girlfriends for the weekend! Gotta take advantage of every moment in the camper that I can possible get, because winter is coming. It’ll be here before we know it.

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“But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift.”

\nEphesians 4:7 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-23T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/23/home-is-where-you-park.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","West Virginia","Road Trip","Home","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/22/one-more-day.html", "title": "One More Day", "content_html": "\n
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We woke up this morning and got the camper closed up before it sprinkled. The drive was easy, but there are an awful lot of trucks on I-70. The detour around Indianapolis was a sight to behold. Miles and miles and miles of traffic in both lanes…sitting at a complete standstill. Coming from the west wasn’t such a big deal because there was a clearly marked detour on I-465 circling around the south of the city. However, by the time we joined I-70 again, the westbound lanes looked like a parking lot and we were ever so grateful we weren’t going in that direction.

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We drove in and out of little rain storms…nothing more than a few minutes with the windshield wipers on. When we saw the big cross at Effingham, we knew we were almost there. We went to get something to eat before we went to the campground so we wouldn’t have to come out again. I will tell you this…it will be a LONG time before I eat fast food again. Ugh! We made sandwiches several times, but we never once cooked…either in the camper or on the outdoor grill. I am really looking forward to a good home cooked meal from our kitchen.

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We were thrilled to get the very same campsite we had last time here at Grandpa’s Farm Campground in Richmond, Indiana. We got the camper set up, opened up the curtains to see the view of the walnut trees in the campground, and hunkered down for the night. The owner tells us these trees only produce every other year and since last year was a bumper crop, we shouldn’t be awakened in the middle of the night with a loud bang on the roof. I certainly hope not. We camped under oak trees a couple of times and those big, fat acorns sound like a gunshot when they hit the camper roof!

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As much as I love traveling, I am looking forward to next week. We get home tomorrow, then I leave Friday to go camp with some girlfriends for a couple of days. We have to go to Columbus on Monday for another scan trying to find my parathyroid glands who have gone AWOL. Starting Tuesday, we have no major plans for a while. I really am looking forward to some down time!

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“If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.”

\nPsalm 139:9-10 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-22T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/22/one-more-day.html", "tags": ["Camping","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/21/finding-feathers-and-pennies-from.html", "title": "Finding Feathers and Pennies from Heaven", "content_html": "\n
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I didn’t sleep very well the first two nights of this trip for some reason. Probably because we’re leaving the family. And it’s been really hot so we have to sleep with the AC on and I don’t like that. At any rate, I was awake before dawn both Sunday and Monday mornings. When we got ourselves up and around and were putting things away, I saw something peeking out from behind the power box. On closer inspection, I found a perfectly beautiful primary wing feather from what I believe is a wild turkey. Someone carefully wedged it behind the power box to be found by another camper coming in for a stay and I was delighted. I plucked it from its hiding place and carefully tucked it under Mavis, the GPS, for safe keeping till I get it home and add it to my collection of found travel treasures. I also found a penny…so it was a big “message” day. Someone saying hello!

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We had every intention of camping at Graham Cave State Park in Danville, Missouri last night but we got there so early in the afternoon. Today’s drive was going to be very long, so we decided to keep on trucking and stopped for the night in Mulberry Grove at Cedarbrook RV Park & Campground. It is an older place that definitely needs updating, and there were mostly seasonal rigs there. But, it was clean, off the highway, and very quiet on a Monday night deep in September. The moon was full, the sky was clear, and even though there was a storm predicted, we battened down the hatches, took a very welcome hot shower, and called it a day.

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We head to eastern Indiana today. Because we traveled longer yesterday, our travel day will be shorter. We are expecting cooler weather today which will be a welcome respite from the oppressive heat we experienced yesterday. We stopped at a rest area in the middle of Missouri around 2:00 yesterday afternoon and it was 92 degrees. It was overcast all morning so you didn’t really feel the heat. As soon as we stepped out of the truck, the sun broke through and it was like standing in front of a fiery furnace. There was a gal with a flat tire on her cargo trailer and a guy was changing it for her. This is exactly why I have AAA Plus…so I can get help should we ever need it, no matter the circumstances.

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One more sleep and we’ll be back on the Ponderosa…aka Marshmallow Ranch. Two nights at home and I take off to camp with my girlfriends for two nights! Honestly…we’ve been gone nearly a month and we’re having a blast! I think we could do this thing full time! 

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“The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

\nPsalm 121:8 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-21T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/21/finding-feathers-and-pennies-from.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","Peaceful Moments","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/20/good-morning-kansas.html", "title": "Good Morning, Kansas!!!", "content_html": "\n
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Ok, y’all…western Kansas is flat…and windy…and flat. And, did I say windy??? Wowza! We’re talking wind-tunnel windy! We’re not in Kansas, Toto windy! When we set up the camper, I had to make sure Mr. FixIt had a tight hold on his side then we threw a rope over the top to anchor it down. I took it down yesterday morning between gusts and all went well.

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Traveling east on I-70 was a little different yesterday with all that wind. It buffeted me around a little and it took more concentration to drive. It was a long driving day…about six hours or so. So by the time we got to our campsite, I was a little over stimulated. And when I get over stimulated, I get snippy. It’s nothing personal, but the person who will catch the brunt of that snippiness will be the person in front of my face. And we all know who that will be…my beloved Mr. FixIt. 

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I recognize it. I hate it. But, it’s also hard to stop. So, when we arrived at the campground last night, as he started to get out of the camper to direct me back into the site, I placed my hand gently on his arm and said softly… “Please just stay here in the truck with me, will you?” Without saying a word, he shut the door. I backed into the campsite with the slightest self-correction of my angle, and placed it perfectly. Then I asked him to please go back and tell me when I was back far enough to still be able to put the rear stabilizing jacks down. He did. And…just like that…it was done. No snippy. No frustration. No feeling bad afterwards. I think we may just have stumbled on the solution to the “I’m sorry for what I said when I was backing up the camper” problem!

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Carol #2, me (camp hair…don’t care! , and Carol #1

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When I realized the other night that I had vastly overestimated our ability to drive all the way to Salina, Kansas the first day…I got out the iPad, opened the app “RV Parky” and reconfigured our itinerary. I realized this would put us in the Topeka area the second night. And, my dear friend Carol #1 lives in Topeka! I texted her as soon as I knew where we were camping and she and a friend, Carol #2, came over. Carol #1 has been following Marshmallow Ranch since before Mr. Virgo died. It was so good to see her. We ordered Chinese food and sat around until the mosquitos started to eat us alive. I hated to say goodbye, but we promised to connect again in the future!

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Lake Shawnee Campground - Topeka, KS

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I stumbled on a real treasure of a campground here. Lake Shawnee Campground is actually a city park operated by the City of Topeka. There’s a large lake and a lovely campground right on the shore with lots of big trees for shade. And, it’s only $24 for a site with electric and water! It was super easy to get to from the interstate. It was incredibly clean and quiet and our site was right across from the bathhouse.

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Eastern Kansas is so much prettier than western. About the time you get to Salina, you start to see some changes in the topography. The grasses are greener and there are some rolling hills. Then you enter the Flint Hills and there are trees! As we travel east, there will be more trees and hills in Missouri. We will camp in “The Show Me State” tonight at a place I’ve never been and I’m really looking forward to sharing it with you. In the meantime, we’ll enjoy our coffee alongside the lake shore this morning before we head out on the open road. 

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“In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

\nProverbs 3:6 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-20T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/20/good-morning-kansas.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Road Trip","Friends","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/18/hitting-the-roadagain.html", "title": "Hitting the Road…Again", "content_html": "\n
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I showed Ben & Sue the Merlin Bird ID app from Cornell Labs yesterday. Sue and I sat at the table and recorded a couple of birds. We saw a huge hawk in their yard but it was gone too fast to get a picture for identification. As we sat and talked over coffee, Sue pointed out something in the shrub outside the window. I went out to look and found a feather with a reddish-orange shaft. I did a Google Lens search and found it to be from a male Northern Flicker (red-shafted). I haven’t had time to research when that bird is here, so I’ll have to do that later.

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I’ve always loved sitting at the breakfast table with Ben & Sue. There are always vibrant discussion and we end up solving all the world’s problems over a couple of cups of coffee. I’ll miss our time with them. I’ve become very close to them over the years and they are my family, too.

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Vacations are always way too short, aren’t they? Even when you’re retired, you have to go home sometime and it’s usually right when you’ve relaxed and really started to enjoy yourself. Daughter #1 and family came over again last night and we had a barbecue and a great around table discussion. I so love this family and I’m going to miss them all. Daughter #2 and her wife work through the weekend, so we said our goodbyes on Wednesday. I’ll miss them both as well. 

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We’re getting up early this morning and I’ll bake one last batch of buttermilk biscuits and we can take some on the road as breakfast sandwiches for the next couple of days. Tonight we’ll be in Kansas! The weather has really changed since we got here in early September. The nights are really nippy. I brought my little ceramic heater that I always keep in my camper because you never know when you’re going to have a chilly night…even in the middle of summer. 

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I camped in a tent at Beaver Creek State Park one year…I can’t remember if it was spring or fall. I was so very cold the first night. So I dug around in the back of my truck and found my little ceramic heater and an extension cord and put it in my tent. It was a lifesaver! I have a feeling, by the time you read this, I’ve turned it on and been glad we had it with us. Birdie has proven to be a great little camper and we are thrilled with our purchase.

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So long, Colorado! See you next spring!!!

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“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way;”

\nPsalm 37:23 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/18/hitting-the-roadagain.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Family","Travel","Camping","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/09/mommying-never-ends.html", "title": "Mommying Never Ends", "content_html": "\n
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Daughter #2 and I had the best day yesterday. We got together early for coffee and actually sat inside a nearly empty Starbucks. It was so wonderful to visit with her…one-on-one. We went back to her house and worked side by side again for a few hours and got her front lawn nearly finished. She just has a small pile of sticks to bag up and trim the edge along the sidewalk. 

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She told me the sprinkler guy had come out to fix her system and set up the timer. It was supposed to come on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:00pm. However, it came on at noon on Tuesday and again at noon yesterday. The control box is down in the crawl space so I got my flashlight from the truck, pulled the wooden covering from the access, and got down the two steps to peek inside.

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My former father-in-law was an extremely frugal guy. He did things in that house that still make me scratch my head. A couple years before he died, he told his only son he should take some of the money he’d been saving all these years and update the house. When they went in to start the demo, they found he had installed an in-ground sprinkler system, but had the control panel mounted on the wall in the spare bedroom. Odd place for it, to be sure…but I’m sure much easier for him to access. When they did the remodel, they moved the box to the crawl space…right on the edge of the opening so you don’t actually have to go IN there.

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When I checked the settings, it was scheduled to come on every day at noon. I sat and puzzled on that for awhile, then asked my daughter if they had a power outage sometime since the sprinkler dude was out…and they had. That had to be the answer. The system reset itself when they lost power. I reset everything then, on Monday when we visit, I’ll show her how it works and how to reset it. There should be a battery backup in case of a power failure, so I’ll research that, as well.

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It didn’t take long for us to finish the mowing. We sat in the shade on the porch with a bottle of water and congratulated each other for a job well done. I came back to Ben and Sue’s in the afternoon and took a well deserved nap. I think we all did. It’s been really hot the last few days, but the evenings and nights are blessedly cool. Mr. FixIt and I went out and brought supper home so no one had to cook…salads and chicken. After the news, I went around and took some pictures.

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I love this little oasis in the middle of one of the larger Denver suburbs. Two acres with a garden and flowers, trees, and an abundance of squirrels and birds. The bathtub came from the most recent remodel in their house. I really want this tub…not only because it’s a great size, but because it belonged to Ben and Sue and it’s from the oldest part of the house. It’s small enough to fit in the bed of the truck so we CAN take it home…however, of all things, I forgot to bring the weight distribution bars for the hitch. The former owners had them installed, but you really don’t need them with a camper the size of Birdie. With the added weight of that iron tub, we would absolutely HAVE to have the weight distribution hitch to keep the rear end from sagging. So…no cool tub for me, doggone it! I’m sure I’ll find one in West Virginia or the surrounding area.

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We found out yesterday, my brother is being moved to his new apartment on Friday. At first, I thought…how inconvenient! We are all heading there on Friday to help him celebrate his 70th birthday this weekend. Then I realized, this is such a God thing. He’s moving on the very weekend we are all going to be there to help him get settled in his new digs! What an amazing Father we have. This move has been in the works for the last year and a half…all times when we were unable to be there due to covid. Then, all of a sudden, everything came together for the move to occur when we’re there! There are NO coincidences!!!

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Little gets to come “camp” with me tonight! Fourteen and still wants to camp with Nana…I’m pretty jazzed. I can hardly wait to spend time with her again. It’s laundry day and get things ready for the trip to the mountains tomorrow. I can’t believe it’s been nearly two weeks since we started Birdie’s Grand Adventure! 

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“So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

\nPsalm 90:12 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-09T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/09/mommying-never-ends.html", "tags": ["Family","Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/03/the-grand-prairie-and-birdies.html", "title": "The Grand Prairie and Birdie’s Grand Adventure", "content_html": "\n
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If we were just meandering around the country with absolutely no agenda, there are some places we would have stopped and explored some more. Like…oodles of antique stores and quilt shops, for one thing. And there were some interesting museums that explored the history of pioneers heading west. I would love to see that some day. But I’m ready to see my kids!

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We left Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Waterloo, Nebraska yesterday morning. The day broke cloudy and cool which made for great sleeping weather and driving was easy on the eyes. Since we were so far north of I-80, “Mavis” the GPS took us due south on US-77. What a great road! Seventy miles per hour four lane with NO traffic. Unfortunately, it was over all too soon and we were off to the dodgems of the long haul truckers heading west. We passed through several rainstorms but they weren’t nearly as heavy as the once we saw earlier in the week.

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The Grand Prairie really amazes me. Long stretches of fields filled with thousands of round bales of hay. Soybeans and corn and grains of every variety as far as the eye could see. But the one thing that takes my breath away is the blanket of yellow Prairie Sunflowers. These aren’t the big heads of cultivated sunflowers grown for seed, oil, and other byproducts. These are wild and gangly and….everywhere! They look a lot like what we call Black-Eyed Susans back home. When we arrived at our campsite last night, the whole place was surrounded by fields of these beautiful flowers that make me smile. 

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As we were driving along, I noticed a dark moving “cloud” and immediately caught my breath. 

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“Look! A murmuration of birds!”

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A murmuration is when a flock of birds fly together and as they soar around, they come together and expand, and create moving shapes in the sky. They are mesmerizing. They flew up from the fields of corn, did their sky dance, and just as rapidly…settled back down into the field again. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a really big murmuration…and this one could be seen from quite a distance.

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We decided to cut our day in half yesterday and stop at Lake McConaughy in Ogallala, Nebraska. I’ve never been here and it was such a shock to come over the hill and see this huge body of water. The next thing you notice is how low the water level has fallen. The entire west is in a mega drought. I’ve seen reservoirs drop, but this is shocking. The lake is still huge and a major source of recreation in the area. Just about every license plate in the campground was Colorado. We were really lucky we hit the place yesterday, because they are booked for the next several days for Labor Day Weekend.

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One “benefit” of the low water level is the broad, sandy beaches left exposed. People rush here to camp right down on the sand and by last evening, it was beginning to resemble Ft. Lauderdale. It was fun to watch. These huge tractors with massive tires towed the campers and 5th wheels down to the beach and backed them into their places. Then, when it’s time for the campers to leave, the tractors come back and haul them back up to the parking lots and their owners hook up and head on home. I’ve never seen anything like it.

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Everything has been working well with the camper. And, as with all mechanical things, little stuff needs tended to from time to time. As I was backing into the campsite yesterday afternoon, when Mr. FixIt noticed the brake light on the drivers side was burned out. He went to pop off the lens and found it was glued on. This happens frequently because the lens attaches to the light fixture itself with two small plastic hooks. It’s very easy to break one of those hooks when changing a burned out light bulb. And the easiest fix is with glue. We will need to do a permanent fix with new rear light fixtures. They aren’t very expensive. We can order them from Amazon if we can’t find them at a trailer supply store in Denver. No big deal.

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Everything in life requires maintenance. I’ve been enjoying the “tuneup” traveling with my sweetheart has afforded me. I think Birdie is the best camper we could have bought to keep us in close quarters. And hours in a pickup truck, toodling across the miles is an excellent way to keep the communication going. Every time Mr. FixIt and I take a trip, we always say “That was the BEST one!” 

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And yet…each one gets better!

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“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!”

\nPsalm 141:3 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/03/the-grand-prairie-and-birdies.html", "tags": ["Camping","The Grand Adventure","Comfort","Road Trip","Marriage","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/02/this-land-is-your-land.html", "title": "This Land is Your Land, This Land is My Land…", "content_html": "\n
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The Sun Rose on Birdie at the Lake Storey Campground in Galesburg, IL

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We woke up yesterday morning to a cool 66 degree morning in Illinois. I don’t reveal the name of the campground where we stay until we’ve gone to the next one. The Lake Storey Campground in Galesburg, Illinois is very nice. It’s clean, quiet, and the lake is so pretty. The first time I was here, I was traveling with a friend of mine from a women’s camping outing in South Dakota. We just happened upon this place. We had dinner then noticed there was probably a nice sunset so we walked down to the lake. This sunset picture was five years ago. Too bad my sweetheart didn’t get to see this, because it was one of my most memorable sunsets ever.

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The Same Campground…Six Years Ago

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The sun came up yesterday, the sky was clear, and there was no evidence of the massive rains we received the day before. We took our time waking up. We like to plan our travel days so we arrive early enough to enjoy the next campground…to go for a walk, to make a nice supper, to sit together quietly in our camp chairs and talk. We like to drive in an unhurried fashion, stopping here and there to explore and stretch our legs. That’s why it’s going to take five days and four nights to get from West Virginia to Colorado.

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Same View Yesterday Morning

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When Hubby #2 and I brought the baby to West Virginia for the grandparents to see her for the first time, he had one week off. It wasn’t the first time we drove from Colorado to West Virginia and back in one week. That was absolutely miserable. But, when you’re working full time and you are poor as church mice, you do what you have to do. Now that we are older and retired, there’s no hurry to get from Point A to Point B. 

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I love driving across Iowa. The farms are pristine. The fields are chock full. The barns are amazing. There are silos and grain elevators everywhere. It was so obvious we were in the bread basket of America. Everywhere we went, we met the nicest people. We stopped in pretty rest areas and gazed at the amazing wind turbines that are capturing Mother Nature and putting her to work in people’s homes and farms. We hopped up to I-80 and, while the road had us feeling like we were riding a washboard most of the day, there really was a lot less traffic than there had been on I-70.

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I spent months planning this trip and I wanted ever single stop to be memorable. I can’t wait to tell you about the campground we stayed at in Nebraska last night. It was a sight to behold! We got in around 5:00, which is perfect. The campsites are spaced far apart with lovely grass lawns between them. And, for me, the very best thing is…no one had a campfire. At least not close enough to cause me any respiratory issues.

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I don’t know if it’s still because this camper is so new to us and the shine hasn’t left it, but I honestly think I am enjoying camping in this little a-frame more than any other camper I’ve had. It’s so small. As a matter of fact, I showed pictures to my friend Diane and she couldn’t believe it was big enough for two people. You may remember when I was pulling the Girl Camper Raffle Trailer, I took my non-camping friend with me for a weekend of fun with a group of gals. While that camper was much smaller than what I was used to, this one is micro in comparison. 

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First off, there’s no bathroom. So, the “Tinkle Tank” is pressed into service during the night…unless you want to walk over to the camp bathroom. Which isn’t a problem…but I like the convenience of not having to go outside. As far as showers…just about every campground I’ve ever been to has had a bath house. I am not averse to taking a sponge bath in between showers. This camper has a sink and a hot water heater. I don’t know…I think the reason I like this so much is, it’s get back to the basics of camping. Short of sleeping in a tent on the ground, it’s a “no muss, no fuss” alternative to hauling a “house” with you with a large flat screen TV and a massive stereo system. And…we get 17mpg pulling Birdie. That’s a bargain! It’s tiny, it’s cozy…and it’s a REALLY good thing we like each other, because you’re really up close and personal in a little a-frame camper.

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We are now within a day’s drive of Denver, but it’s a LONG day’s drive and I’m not sure we want to put ten or more hours in today. So, I’m looking at campgrounds between here and there. Something that will get us into Denver after only four hours or so would be perfect. Hang in there with us…adventure awaits!

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“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

\nEphesians 4:32 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-02T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/02/this-land-is-your-land.html", "tags": ["Camping","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/09/01/we-beat-ida-but.html", "title": "We Beat Ida, But…..", "content_html": "\n
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The Cornfields of Illinois

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There was a cold front that swept down through the Great Plains yesterday and it brought TONS of moisture with it. We woke up yesterday and took our time getting the camper packed, but as soon as we pulled out of the campground, it started sprinkling. We needed to check the air in the trailer tires. It took three stops to find an air pump that worked. I have my portable compressor with me, but we forgot to pack an extension cord. Just as Mr. FixIt was adding air to the tires, the sky opened and he was pretty wet when he got back in the truck.

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We stayed Monday night at Grandpa’s Farm Campground in Richmond, Indiana. We stayed there once before when the bearings went out on the big camper a few years ago. I stayed there on my way across country several times and love it. When we got on I-70 West, we’d only gone a few miles when there was a sign saying there would be major construction delays and to get off at the next exit. I don’t know why we didn’t, but it wasn’t long till we were sitting in a parking lot. Between the heavy rain and the construction, our 4.5 hour drive turned into about a 9.5 hour journey. 

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It wasn’t all bad, though. The middle of the day was stellar. The sky was clear and we drove through the gorgeous farms of Indiana and Illinois passing field after field of God’s bounty…corn, soybeans, sunflowers. We drove by Pekin and Peoria…both places my grandparents lived. Three of their children were born in Pekin. We finally got to our campground last night around 5:45. It had been raining so hard and I couldn’t imagine setting up this camper in that. I was afraid we’d have to sit in the truck till the storm let up, but we prayed that God would give us a window…and that the camper would be dry inside. He delivered on both counts and we were snug and dry inside before it started to pour again.

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The View From Our Campsite Last Night….Cool and Wet!

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We thank God profusely for travel mercies and the blessings he bestows on us. And we thank you for your good thoughts and prayers for our safety. It takes a village!

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“Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.”

\nJames 5:18 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-09-01T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/09/01/we-beat-ida-but.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Gratitude","God","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/08/31/outrunning-the-rains-of-ida.html", "title": "Outrunning the Rains of Ida", "content_html": "\n
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We seem to have left West Virginia at a most opportune moment. As we drove across the flat farmlands of Ohio yesterday, we put more and more miles between us and the heavy rains that are the remnants of Hurricane Ida. The forecast over the weekend said our home could see 1-4” of rain by Thursday. Our day, however, was lovely. The skies were overcast so there wasn’t any blinding glare on the windshield. It was a decent 80 degrees, but still didn’t feel terribly hot out there.

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I am so glad we packed the camper and truck on Sunday night. It rained in the night, so the camper was buttoned up tight. That only left a few things to bring out yesterday morning. That also meant we didn’t have to get up at the crack of dawn. There was no rushing or last minute worries. We took Pumpkin to the Kitty Hilton and hit the road officially at about 11:00. We got to our campsite at 4:30. We stopped a couple of places along the way. A nice rest area. An RV dealer. (We saw the campers like ours that have the dormers on the ends so we wanted to check them out. For $18,000…I’ll make do with what we have, thank you!) We stopped for something to eat. It was a very easy day.

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When we got to the campsite, we each did the next thing that needed doing. Once we were set up, we turned the AC on and stretched out for a little rest. Evenings will be harder on Mr. FixIt than they will be for me. I don’t watch TV but he sits down with it every night. No TV in this camper, so he’s entertaining himself in other ways…puttering and wandering about chatting with other campers. He loves that sort of thing. He did bring me a Drumstick Ice Cream…so he made big points on that one!

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Rain is predicted overnight. Not the rain from Ida…just the typical rains of an August in the MidWest. Undoubtedly, we will have to close up the camper in the rain this morning. I asked an A-Frame Camper group on Facebook if it was normal to get a little water inside when you open and close the camper and they assured me it was. Any water inside a camper freaks me out, but this isn’t enough to cause damage. The most common comment was, “Hey…we figure it’s still better than camping in a flooded tent!” And that, I suppose, is quite true.

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Tonight we will end up in Illinois for the night. I’m trying to stay in State Parks as much as possible this trip. I’ll let you know how it goes! Have a good day today!

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?

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“Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.””

\nActs 14:17 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-08-31T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/08/31/outrunning-the-rains-of-ida.html", "tags": ["Camping","The Grand Adventure","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/08/30/birdies-grand-adventure-shes-off.html", "title": "Birdie’s Grand Adventure… She’s Off!", "content_html": "\n
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For the day before a Grand Adventure, we were pretty mellow. Mr. FixIt finished mowing the back yard and did some fixit things around the house. Our house sitters came and learned the ropes and picked up all the keys. The laundry is all done and folded and either packed or put away. The footlocker we use for our camp kitchen has been restocked and is ready to load up in the back of the truck. Our totes are being filled with clothes and shoes at the last minute. The hanging clothes are waiting in the wings. Food gets picked up at a shop near our destination to keep things simple. The clean bed linens will be put on this morning as it was raining hard during the last hours of light yesterday afternoon.

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I’m trying to keep things super simple on this trip. This little camper is REALLY little. No storage space to speak of so we need to be creative. The totes will fit under the twin bed. Two of the milk crates with shoes fit in a cabinet under one end of the twin bed. The other two, with towels and bathing supplies go under the big bed. I bought some suction cup hooks to hang towels and things on. I’ve even entered our first destination in the GPS already. I think we’re pretty well set!

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We’re both pretty tired. Saturday was a very long, hot day filled with hard work for both of us. I ended up getting sick from the heat. I wasn’t as careful as I have been…drank water instead of my electrolyte drink, and really should have waited longer after eating to go out and finish the mowing. At this stage of the game, saying you’d think I knew better is a pretty moot point. But, I bounced back fast…no worse for the wear.

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Luckily, this camper is not at all difficult to tow. I have a feeling my days of hauling a big 30’ camper across the country are over. I know…never say never, but that big girl wears me out. This little gizmo is a dream to pull so I’m thinking it’ll be much more fun. Oh, and of all things, that terrible pain I had in my hip is GONE. I prayed over it. I iced it, I rubbed CBD lotion on it. I took NSAIDs for it. I even had my friend Marion send some Reiki energy. By yesterday morning, it was just gone which was SUCH a relief. I was so worried it was going to dampen our trip. 

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Thank you, God…for all you do for us!

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“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”

\nPsalm 121:1-8 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-08-30T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/08/30/birdies-grand-adventure-shes-off.html", "tags": ["Travel","The Grand Adventure","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/08/21/birdie-and-blue-skies.html", "title": "Birdie and Blue Skies", "content_html": "\n
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Remember I told you we’d had an inordinate amount of rain in the last week? Well, my friend Diane sent this to me today and this verifies it. We had at least 6.5” of rain at our house in the last seven days. They don’t see that in seven MONTHS out in Colorado and other parts west! It’s crazy. Where the grass had been laying dormant…crispy as dried hay…it’s suddenly turned green again and I swear you can HEAR it growing! We’ll be mowing again this week.

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After driving down to Huntington Wednesday and back home Thursday, I turned right around and went back down yesterday to pick Birdie up from the RV Hospital. They sealed the skylight, let it dry, and sealed it again. Tim says if it leaks this time, there’s a hole somewhere else! Let’s hope he got it and we don’t have to worry about that again! I decided to stay over and camp at a local campground last night. It’s very near the interstate and man, was the traffic noise loud. But, if I left the fan on, the white noise drowned it out.

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The campground was packed, and it was one of those places where the sites are pretty close to each other. I have to say, though…as I was writing this, folks were being pretty polite and staying within their campsites. Even the children have put their bikes and toys away and are settling in for the evening. That’s pretty impressive. My campsite is near a small lake with a fountain. I walked around a bit and said hello to people. Everyone was friendly…West Virginia is a friendly state.

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The afternoon was really hot, so I returned something to Menard’s that I didn’t need. I’m trying to work out storage in the little camper. When I had my first little camper, I thought it was terribly small. And it had overhead cabinets as well as a pantry and closet and drawers. This little a-frame has one drawer under the microwave and one small cabinet under the sink. It has storage under one of the bench seats of the dinette (which is converted down into a twin sized bed for Mr. FixIt). There is also a moderate amount of storage under the big bed. 

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Because the top collapses down for travel, you cannot store anything on the beds. I bought some milk crates…two pink and two blue…two for Mr. FixIt and two for me. One of each color slides easily into the door to the storage under the dinette bench. The other two will slide under the twin bed. I also have two long, flat tubs that will fit in the storage space under the big bed to use for cooking utensils and linens. We will each have a small carry on that will stay in the truck.

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I bought one of those plastic units that has three drawers in it. It fits perfectly on the counter over the microwave. That will hold our food and snacks. It will either go under the twin bed for travel, or back in the truck. As I plan the storage, I want to keep in mind we’ll be stopping for overnight stays on our way out to and back from Colorado. We aren’t going to want to do a lot of “decorating” or moving things around. I want to make this as simple and seamless as possible. 

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I was going to run a hose over the camper yesterday to see if the leak is gone, but it was so hot, I was afraid to spray cold water on it for fear of damaging the seal. I’ll do that this morning before I leave. If there’s any leak, it has to go back over to the little camper clinic. I have every faith in them, though and I’m sure they fixed it just right!

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As I was tucked in writing this, the katydids were going crazy in the campground. There were a lot of trees around so it was nice to hear more from Mother Nature once the traffic sounds subsided. I hope you are enjoying a beautiful weekend and doing something fun. Before we know it, the snow will fly and have us hibernating back inside again.

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“And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.”

\nGenesis 1:31 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-08-21T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/08/21/birdie-and-blue-skies.html", "tags": ["Camping","West Virginia","Peaceful Moments","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/08/20/guardian-angels-and-rainstorms.html", "title": "Guardian Angels and Rainstorms", "content_html": "\n
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We’ve had an incredible amount of rain in the last week after going through a prolonged dry spell. It’s been a blessed relief but that doesn’t make driving in it very pleasant. When I towed Birdie down to Huntington on Tuesday, I drove through a steady rain till I was nearly at my destination. I took my time, did not use cruise control, and never went over 55mph…60 at the most. 

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We lost a fellow classmate a few weeks ago to a tragic car accident. I went all through school with Cheryl, though I didn’t know her terribly well. We ran in different circles. Still, when I learned the circumstances of her accident, it haunted me for a while. There were so many similarities. Cheryl was a fairly new widow, getting back out into the world, and was traveling alone when a semi lost control. She must have been passing him or was driving in a lane adjacent to him, because the weight and power of the tractor trailer pushed Cheryl through a guard rail, across the median, and into oncoming traffic. She didn’t stand a chance and we were all devastated by her sudden loss. (Correction, Cheryl was driving in the oncoming traffic and was hit head on by the semi. Still, a car was pushed through the guardrail by a semi with the same tragic results.)

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As I drove north through the storm coming home yesterday, I was driving cautiously. The rain wasn’t too bad in the beginning. I started to pass a semi and felt this chill. I thought of Cheryl and her accident. I moved back in behind the big truck. Where he and the rest of the traffic kept up their pace, I slowed way down. It wasn’t too much further and the skies opened up. The kind of downpour where the windshield wipers cannot keep up. More and more cars pulled over on the shoulder and turned on their emergency flashers. I turned mine on, too…but I kept driving. I’m too afraid to stop on the side of the road when visibility is poor. I’d rather drive in the center lane with my flashers on and stay far enough back that I can stop, but not so far back that I can’t see.

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Suddenly, brake lights started lighting up ahead of me and I slowed down to a crawl. There, in the sound bound lanes, was a semi…jackknifed. At first, I thought he must have been heading south, but I later learned on the news…he was traveling north, went through the guardrail, and was turned completely around. Just like what happened to Cheryl. Two people were sent to the hospital and as far as I know there were no fatalities. But, I know as well as I know my own name…my guardian angel told me to slow down and not to pass the semi in the rain. She was working overtime yesterday.

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Every time I get behind the wheel, I wrap my hand around a wooden cross that I have hanging from my rear view mirror. I have no idea where that cross came from. It just showed up one day out at the farm. It was on my grandma’s dresser one morning so I picked it up and hung it in my truck. I wrap my hand around that cross at the beginning of every trip and ask God to keep us all safe as we travel that day. When I saw that wrecked semi, I wrapped my hand around the cross again and thanked God for protecting me.

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I soon outran the storm and by the time I got home, it was back to a gentle drizzle. I called the RV dealership and they said Birdie will be ready by late this afternoon. I’ve decided to go back down to get her today, tow her to a local campground, and stay overnight near the dealership in case anything shows up that I need to get fixed while I’m down there. If all goes well, I’ll tow her back home tomorrow and we can start packing up for the big trip.

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I went to Menard’s when I was in Barboursville yesterday and picked up some storage containers that I think might work well. I’ll try them out at the campground tonight. That way, if they don’t fit right, I can return them while I’m still in the area. With all this running around, it’s hard to believe I’ve actually had more restful sleep in the last three days than I’ve had in quite a while. I guess, going full speed ahead wore me out enough to make me sleep soundly.

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“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”

\nPsalm 91:11-12 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-08-20T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/08/20/guardian-angels-and-rainstorms.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Prayer","God","Road Trip","Birdie"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/08/05/another-dayanother-doctor.html", "title": "Another Day…Another Doctor", "content_html": "\n
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I told Mr. FixIt yesterday…we are at “that age” now. When you have WAY more doctor’s appointments than you’ve ever had in your life. It makes me crazy. I wish we could sync everything and get all of our appointments out of the way in one week then we could go a long stretch without another one. But, unfortunately, that’s rarely how it works out when you are dealing with two people with different diagnoses.

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I had an appointment a couple of weeks ago with a new endocrinologist. I am still dealing with the hyperparathyroidism that led me to have surgery in Florida in March. If you were following along at the time, I had an adenoma (and the parathyroid gland it was attached to) removed from my neck. The surgeon was only able to visualize the top two glands. The bottom two are somewhere in my chest imbedded in my thymus gland. That would be fine if my parathyroid hormone and calcium levels were normal. But, they aren’t. They’re elevated and that indicates I have at least one, if not more, adenomas. 

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Hyperparathyroidism is an invisible disease…except on paper, and in your body. The person suffering from it surely knows they have it by the symptoms. Diffuse, migrating pain. Hair loss. Extremely grouchy mood. Insomnia. Muscle cramps. Acid reflux and indigestion. Nausea and vomiting. Skin problems…itching, rashes, dry, cracked, peeling. Heart palpitations. Calcification of the arteries. Loss of bone density. Terrible brain fog. The list goes on and on. 

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If left unresolved, it can cut years off your life. Dana Delany, Garry Shandling, and Jamie Foxx all had hyperparathyroidism. It is actually among the most frequent endocrine diagnoses. I was so disappointed that the surgery was only partially successful. I made the decision not to go back down to Florida to the Norman Parathyroid Center. That’s a long way to go for testing and appointments when I can go to The Ohio State University. My appointment with a new endocrinologist surgeon is today, so I would love it if you could send some prayers and good thoughts…not only for safe travel there and back, but for a skilled and confident surgeon who can take care of business fairly locally.

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I remember calling my mom years ago and every conversation was about her and my brother’s most recent trip to the doctor, what was wrong with them, and what medicine they’re now taking. I used to get so weary and frustrated that all she talked about was what was wrong. Now…now I have a lot more empathy for what she was going through and wish I would have been a bit more patient and insightful with her. Water under the bridge…however, I try not to vent my spleen every time I talk to my kids.

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In the meantime…girls, it’s tomato season here in West Virginia. We stopped at my favorite greenhouse last night and bought four big, juicy tomatoes…fresh off the vine. We had tomato and mayo sandwiches (with a thin slice of ham on them) for supper last night. Oh, my…that’s heaven right there! I hope you are enjoying this first week of August as much as we are. I’m ready for another camping trip!

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“But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.”

\nMatthew 9:12 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-08-05T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/08/05/another-dayanother-doctor.html", "tags": ["Health","Hope","Aging","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/07/30/yesi-went-to-townagain.html", "title": "Yes…I Went to Town…AGAIN!", "content_html": "\n
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You know how it is when you’re getting ready for a trip. There’s always something you have to do before you can leave. And, this time it was kind of important. Remember my three hour trip to the DMV this week? Well, I went out yesterday morning to put the new license on the little camper. I pulled out the plate and…the sticker said 2020. I looked in the envelope and there was no sticker for 2023. So, guess who had to go BACK to the DMV?

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*insert eye roll and heavy sigh here*

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I got the new sticker. They were kind enough to not make me sit through the whole “take a number and wait” thing. It only took a half hour or so. I had a few other errands to run and headed home to do laundry and start packing up a few things. I put the new memory foam topper on the bed and dressed it with fresh sheets. I pulled a quilt from the house to fold at the foot of the bed. The fridge is still ice cold. My friend Gail’s husband is handy with electrical issues and campers so he’s going to see if we can figure out why the fridge only works when we have it plugged into an extension cord. I bought a new GFI outlet yesterday so we’ll try that first.

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Even the very best cared for camper needs a little tuneup after a while. We are so grateful the previous owners loved this little trailer and took such good care of her. We’ll do our best to show her all the love. Still thinking about a name. I don’t know if you have ever seen how one of these things fold up, but it’s seriously like origami so I’m looking for some kind of name that reflects that. 

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We’re off for a road trip and some time away from mowing and home responsibilities. The kitty is cared for. And I get my man alone in the woods! Life is good!

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?

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“also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God’s gift to man.”

\nEcclesiastes 3:13 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-07-30T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/07/30/yesi-went-to-townagain.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/07/24/easy-as-pie.html", "title": "Easy as Pie!", "content_html": "\n
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Look what followed us home!

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I’ve been vacillating for weeks regarding my big camper. Honestly…the only time I camp in it is at home. My truck isn’t powerful enough to pull it up hills, let alone mountains. Mr. FixIt and I love to camp together. But he doesn’t quite see the point in sleeping in the camper at home like I do. So…if I want to get him to camp with me, it’s going to have to be in a camper more suitable A) to the size of my truck, and B) to suit us at our age. 

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I still want the basics: a bed out of the rain, a sink and running water, a microwave, a cooktop, air conditioning and a furnace for chilly nights. I like the idea of solid walls. I don’t want the canvas tent feel of a regular popup but, I DO love the low profile and lightweight, easy towing they provide. I’ve been around campers for several years now and I’ve been to the biggest RV show there is. I’ve learned from the best of the best, Janine Pettit and Gail Bable…my Girl Campers Extraordinaire and partners in all things camping.

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A couple of years ago, Gail and I met Janine at the Country Living Fair in Columbus, OH to help her man the booth for Girl Camper. We had three camping trailers there and the one that I just loved was Gail’s A-Liner. It was so tiny yet when you popped it up, it looked like a little Swiss A-frame. Her neighbor painted sunflowers on it. It was cute as a bug.

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Once I started looking for smaller campers this spring, I realized Covid caused a huge boost in camper sales. They are hard to find new…especially the smaller ones. People selling their campers have discovered they can jack up their prices and desperate people will be willing to pay top dollar for a safe vacation. Camping is enjoying a resurgence of immense popularity.

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I can’t tell you how many sellers I’ve contacted, inquiring if they still have the camper. One was exactly like my first camper and I was really interested in it, however…within an hour of posting the camper for sale, he already had three people lined up to come see it and four more people as back up. This happened over and over.

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Then, earlier this week, I saw an A-farm camper…much like Gail’s only bigger. Roomier. Newer. 

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Oooooooooh. 

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I texted and asked if it was still available…two days after it posted. Yes, it was. I looked and thought and then decided against it. The idea of having to pop the top was bugging me. I wrote back and said thanks for your time but I think we’ll pass. Another day went by. I couldn’t get that A-frame out of my head. So, I prayed. 

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“Lord, if you want me to have this, make it easy and effortless.”

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I texted yesterday and said, “On second thought, I’d like to come see the camper. Is it still available?” I was absolutely certain it wasn’t or that she had six people lined up to come see it. After all, it was Friday now.

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“Yes, it’s still available.” No one was coming to see it. She told me at least two dozen said they were interested and she would wait and wait and wait and no one showed up to actually look at it. She was a little frustrated by that…as I can imagine. I made arrangements with her, came home from having lunch with some friends from high school, and asked Mr. FixIt if her remembered that cute little A-frame camper and did he want to go look at it with me?

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He did…and we hopped in the truck to drive over two hours to check it out. The moment I saw it, I knew…she was ours! She was just waiting for us. And, Susan…the owner was just as sweet as can be. It turned out, we have so much in common. She is also a widow. She and her late husband used to camp in tents, but they were aging and she was over all that packing and hauling, setting up and breaking down. She wanted a bed. Period. In came the A-frame. But, when her husband died, she didn’t have the proper vehicle to tow and she had never towed the camper before. Now, she is thinking if she can find a camper van that she can just drive places and sleep in, that’s what she’d rather have.

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I encouraged her to check out Girl Campers and explore the idea of a camper van and, who knows? We might end up sharing a campfire one of these days!

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We completed our transaction and they showed us how everything worked. I am able to set it up and take it down all by myself, which is necessary if I go off camping with my girlfriends. The camper was purchased from my good friend, Lynn Butler…owner of Setzer’s World of Camping. It had recently been in the shop to have a skylight replaced. The other two skylights and the Fantastic Fan had been recaulked. It had a new air conditioner put in it in 2018 and had only been camped in once since then as her husband became ill a couple of years ago.

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In other words…the perfect camper was dropped in our lap. The perfect size, the perfect weight, the perfect amenities, and at the perfect price. She doesn’t have a bathroom, but there are these cute little popup tents you can buy that work as a bathroom outside at the end of your camper. You put a little portapotty in there and it works great for overnight trips to the loo.

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I towed her home and…I am not kidding…I had to remind myself it was actually back there. It pulls so smooth and easy. It didn’t change my gas mileage at all. We just kept feeling like someone should pinch us because it was truly effortless.

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Thank you, God…for always being the provider and bringing the things we need in our lives. This will be the perfect addition to our family’s adventures. We can get back to camping. We can sell the big camper and get the money back that we paid for the new one…plus enough to pay for camping for a good while. We were positively giddy all the way home. We already have our first camping trip scheduled for next weekend!!!

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Now…for the most important part.

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Her name. 

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What shall we name her???

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?

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“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

\nJames 1:17 ESV\n
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#Gifts, #Camper, #Blessings

\n\n", "date_published": "2021-07-24T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/07/24/easy-as-pie.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Gratitude","goRVing","Girl Camper","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/05/26/pumpkins-magnificent-adventure.html", "title": "Pumpkin’s Magnificent Adventure", "content_html": "\n
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Pumpkin

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For those of you who’ve followed a while, you’ll know I lived in my camper for a few years and vowed never to have pets again. Mr. Virgo’s little dog died just three months before he did and it was all just too much. I didn’t want to lose any more beloveds. Then, when I came off the road, I inherited a farm cat I dubbed “Boy Cat”. When I was gone on a trip over Thanksgiving, I came home to a tiny little kitten with exactly the same markings as the long-haired big boy except he had a short, sleek coat. I named him “Kitty Boy”.

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While Boy Cat eventually warmed up to me and marked me as his by rubbing his face on my legs, Kitty Boy was as wild as wild could be and took off like a shot if he saw you. No rubs and chirps, but he came back every day to be fed and slept soundly through the winter in his bed box complete with an electric warming pad. While not a terribly enthusiastic cat person, I came to love them and watching their antics around the farm.

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Boy Cat and Kitty Boy

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When the time came to move to join Mr. FixIt at the Ponderosa, the farm kitties moved quite happily to my cousin’s barn down the road and adjusted well. Fast forward to Halloween 2019. Mr. FixIt and I had been married a year and I took off for several weeks camping all around the state of West Virginia in the Girl Camper Raffle Trailer. When I returned, here was this little black kitten someone had dumped and Mr. FixIt had been feeding him. I wasn’t thrilled to be tied down with another pet, but when this little thing shot straight to me like she’d been waiting forever to see me...well, let’s just say...she’s home.

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We woke up yesterday morning and decided it was THE day to take TOW-Wanda down to Setzer’s World of Camping to get some leaks fixed. We haven’t moved that camper for at least two years...maybe three. As a matter of fact, we weren’t really sure when we camped in her last...save for sleeping out there in the field at the Ponderosa. All four tires and the spare were low on air so I got them pumped up. Mr. FixIt struggled and finally got the big tarp off of her. The battery was dead so we had to plug her into shore power to raise her up with the electric tongue jack.

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Towing TOW-Wanda to Setzer’s

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It was already near noon by the time we got her completely hooked up and ready to go. I went and closed the doors to the car. Mr. FixIt went to close the doors to the bay. We were sweating buckets. We grabbed a couple of electrolyte drinks and hopped in the truck for the three hour drive to Huntington.

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When we got there, we went inside to register with Matt in the service department and told him all the things we wanted fixed. We visited a little while, then went back out to unhook the camper so the tractor could pull it into the shop. I needed a tool to unhook the weight distribution hitch so I went over to the storage compartment in the belly of the camper. When I opened the hatch door, I stood there so confused for a few seconds. There was Pumpkin! She cautiously peeked her head out and looked around...sniffing the air.

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Now, Pumpkin is like most cats I’ve ever known. She’ll let you pet her for a few seconds then when she’s had enough, she’ll turn around and bite you a good one! Not this time. I picked her up and she literally climbed me and planted her head under my chin. Bless her heart! It never occurred to us that she would have jumped into the belly of the camper. And she’s black as night so you would never see her in there with all the gear and cargo we carry.

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Pumpkin Peeks Out From Her New Roomy Carrier

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Fortunately, she was no worse for the wear. We gave her a drink and sat with her for a while in the truck, running the air conditioning so she’d cool off. We stopped at the first Walmart we came to and bought a collapsible pop-up pet carrier and got her settled in on a nice clean blanket and hit the road home. She does really well in the car on the interstate. And she does fine for the short ride to town, which she often makes with Mr. FixIt. But you put this poor kitty in the car and go very far on these twisty turny West Virginia roads and she lets loose from every orifice. I don’t know what to do about that. The only time we ever go far is when we have to take her to the vet...or, when she’s a stowaway on an illicit adventure, apparently.

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From now on, we’ll double and triple check compartments on the camper when we leave for a trip. This could have had disastrous results, and should serve as a warning to others, but fortunately...all it left us with was a very snuggly kitty...and some blog fodder!

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?

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“The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.”

\nPsalm 145:9 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-05-26T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/05/26/pumpkins-magnificent-adventure.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","West Virginia","Warning","The Cats","Farm Life","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/04/25/when-you-take-your-goats.html", "title": "When You Take Your Goats to Arby’s...You Must be in West Virginia!", "content_html": "\n
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We got in last night exactly twelve hours after we pulled away from the condo. Although we were tired and felt like we’d gone ten rounds with an alligator, the trip itself was so smooth. I knitted for the first four hours or so, then switched off and drove the rest of the way. I so enjoy our time together and our conversations. Interspersed with stretches of companionable silence, we solve the world’s problems and share stories and laughter. This was truly a treasured trip I will always remember.

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Just after crossing the border into West Virginia, I suggested we pull into Lewisburg and get a bite to eat. As we got in line at the drive through, I noticed something moving in the trailer in front of me. It was a little dark, but then he turned around the corner and I could see what was inside. 

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Goats!

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Two beautiful white nanny goats and a black billy goat were happily munching on hay as their owners went through the drive through for sandwiches. I smiled and turned to my sweet husband.

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“We’re home!”

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?

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“Happy are you who sow beside all waters, who let the feet of the ox and the donkey range free.”

\nIsaiah 32:20 ESV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-04-25T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/04/25/when-you-take-your-goats.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","West Virginia","Road Trip","Marriage"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/03/18/guess-where-i-am-hint.html", "title": "Guess Where I Am? Hint: The Peepers are Peeping!!!", "content_html": "\n
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Pollen coating the parking lot in Savannah, Georgia

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Yes...we made it home last night by 9:00. Not the original plan, but...once my husband starts seeing how many miles it is to home on the road signs, we’re done. There’s no stopping that draw, no matter how hard I whined. In all actuality, I was really ready to be home in our own bed and the peepers greeted us where ever there was any standing water...all the way out the two lane. I stood at the edge of the driveway and tears stung my eyes at that beautiful sound...SPRING!

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We started our day just south of Savannah, Georgia at 10:00 yesterday morning. I drove for the first three hours or so, then Mr. FixIt took a turn at the wheel. I took over in Wytheville, Virginia and drove the rest of the way home. We had an easy drive. We avoided the terrible storms that are hitting the south this week. As a matter of fact, it didn’t rain a drop till we were emptying the truck at home. We did see a couple of accidents, but no emergency vehicles so hopefully the occupants were ok.

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South Carolina roadside filled with white flowers

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I love it down south...spring comes early and everything is green and lush. But I swear...there are WAY too many people south of the Mason Dixon Line. Y’all are seriously crowded and I don’t know where all those people were coming and going to, but I-95 is like the Daytona 500...day and night. When we walked out to the truck yesterday morning, there had been a light rain during the night and it washed the pollen into wide yellow stripes like paint on the asphalt. It’s no wonder we were both sneezing like crazy.

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Heading up Fancy Gap in Virginia

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So, now we are home and in reverse isolation. We have been in crowded areas where the coronavirus mutations are running rampant. Even though we both are fully vaccinated, we could still carry the virus to others who may not be. That’s fine with me. I can use a little down time on the Ponderosa and out at the farm. Once the first few days were over after the surgery, I’ve felt better every day. And, so far, the pain I was experiencing before the surgery hasn’t returned. I did have pain in my hands yesterday while driving. I told Mr. FixIt, the educational materials on the parathyroidectomy specifically said if you had joint pain before, you may still because it doesn’t take away things like arthritis, which I know I have in my hands. I happy with the results and pray it stays that way. Now I can relax a while before mowing season starts!

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?

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“With all your heart you must trust the Lord and not your own judgment. Always let him lead you, and he will clear the road for you to follow.”

\nProverbs 3:5-6 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-03-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/03/18/guess-where-i-am-hint.html", "tags": ["Travel","West Virginia","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/03/17/day-documenting-a-lost-year.html", "title": "Day 365: Documenting a Lost Year That Saved Me", "content_html": "\n
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I woke up in the stillness of our hotel room. My husband slept quietly by my side. I turned over and reached for my phone...6:05. I closed my eyes, willing myself back to sleep...to no avail. I felt...uneasy. My radar was up and I couldn’t figure out what was wrong. Usually I’ll take a quick look at the news, but yesterday I went straight to the weather. As soon as I saw the first weather warning for the south, I sat bolt upright in bed....just enough to stir Mr. FixIt. He knew by the look on my face, I meant business.

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“We need to head home...today.” I handed him my phone with the weather map. 

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“Yeah...I heard something about this last night.”

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He was worried enough to take notice of the weather, but worried enough to leave the sunshine a whole day early? Hmmmmmm....maybe not.

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I smiled at him and said, “Come on, get up! I miss the neighbor’s rooster!” 

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He laughed. I don’t think he likes the rooster as much as I do!

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We were packed and on the road in fairly short order. He wouldn’t let me drive, even though I felt much better yesterday than the day before. He is a wise man. By the time we stopped for the evening, I was whupped...and all I did was ride along and read road signs.

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I love road trips. We left the interstate for a while and cut off a few miles getting from Port Richey to Jacksonville. We passed lots of roadside stands selling strawberries, blueberries, and Vidalia Onions. We didn’t stop though. We basically just drove and talked and ate popcorn all day. It was a nice way to end what was often a wicked hard year.

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I won’t count the days anymore. Things will change along the way and I’ll note them, but no matter how hard you beg, God will not tell you how many days you have on this earth. I documented a year...yet ANOTHER year. A year out of EIGHT years that I’ve shared with you. There was fear, sadness, hope, love, frustration, boredom, loneliness, pain, and change. So, so much change. Isn’t that the one thing we can always count on in life? Change? I’d be a lot happier if I didn’t have to face quite so MUCH change in just one year, but we don’t get to choose that either. We only get to choose what we do with it. 

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I think I’ve done ok with my lost year. I think, in many ways...it made me find more of myself. But I truly, truly wish all those beautiful people had just one more year to love their people. That’s the thing about life. 

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We always think there is time.

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NOTE: If you are in the way of the storms this week, please do be careful! My prayers are with you!!! ?

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?

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“The angel showed me a river that was crystal clear, and its waters gave life. The river came from the throne where God and the Lamb were seated. Then it flowed down the middle of the city's main street. On each side of the river are trees that grow a different kind of fruit each month of the year. The fruit gives life, and the leaves are used as medicine to heal the nations.”

\nRevelation 22:1-2 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-03-17T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/03/17/day-documenting-a-lost-year.html", "tags": ["Travel","Choices","Change","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/03/09/day-from-sea-to-shining.html", "title": "Day 358: From Sea to Shining Sea...the Atlantic to the Gulf", "content_html": "\n
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Mavis has taken me on many adventures. She and I met the day I left Colorado in my rear view mirror and headed for West Virginia and a whole new life. I didn’t realize how very much I needed her, till I stopped along the way and picked her up. Mavis is my GPS. She tells me, almost without fail, exactly where to turn. She lets me know in advance what lane I need to be in for the upcoming exit on strange turnpikes. She reassures me I am on the fastest route, and if not, she either lets me know how long we may face delay or in worst case scenarios...redirects me in a safer direction.

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As we drove yesterday, heading from Historic St. Augustine to Tampa, we decided to turn Mavis off for a while and mosey down A1A...the old route that follows the ocean down the length of Florida. We passed incredible mansions and little beach houses...some no more than shacks, really. I let my mind wander to the kind of people one might find inside. It’s definitely spring down here so there were hundreds and hundreds of bikers riding up and down, parked outside old rundown watering holes and greasy spoons. Or those whose pristine hogs were strapped to trailers on the back of spendy pickup trucks...on their way down to the yearly right of testosterone display that is bike week.

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The bougainvillea are breathtaking! You smell flowers and salty sea as you travel south in the succulence of spring. It’s dizzyingly decadent...as though you are biting into some forbidden fruit...the juices dripping from your chin and leaving you with a sense of satisfaction no mere apple could ever give. My heart explodes with joy, as it always does, when my eyes first meet the sea. We crack the windows, our companionable silence broken only by the cry of gulls and the rumble of a good Harley. Oh....there is nothing like the revelry of springtime abandon. Especially after the long, hard season we have seen. 

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I cannot let myself obsess with others who eschew precautions and flaunt their maskless faces in the Florida sunshine. I understand their needs. I fear for their health and the health of the unprotected. We have done our parts...we have both vaccines on board. We always wear masks (double masks down here!) and we practice safe social distancing. And we pray for all the others...but mostly for the others who will have to take care of these reckless partiers.

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As we get close to the Daytona Speedway, I brought Mavis back to life and she started directing me again....leading me in the right direction, keeping me safe. It made me smile, and reminded me....as much as Mavis does for my driving, God does for my life...as long as I keep Him plugged in and I listen to His directions. He is the GPS of my life...I’m just the copilot. He brought us safely to our cozy, clean hotel where we will stay till Thursday after the surgery. The bed is divine. I stretched out to rest for a bit, pulled up a coverlet, and was asleep in moments.

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We are safely here.

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?

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“Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk.”

\nPsalms 119:105 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-03-09T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/03/09/day-from-sea-to-shining.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/03/08/day-we-found-spring.html", "title": "Day 357: We Found Spring!", "content_html": "\n
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Spring has been hiding in the south and we didn’t know it! We drove through South Carolina and Georgia then on into Florida yesterday. We had every intention of staying in the historic district of St. Augustine so we could go over and walk at the fort. Then by the time we arrived, we were both too tired. But we still had a lovely hotel room in a safe and quite neighborhood and I negotiated a good rate. One of the benefits of working in a hotel in a past live...negotiating skills.

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I must say, we continue to be pleasantly surprised that people are wearing their masks everywhere we go! There has been one man in a rest area without his mask. I have asked Mr. FixIt to please stop telling people they should have a mask on. Just move away from them and leave them alone...you don’t know who carries a gun! Fortunately, it’s only been the one guy so far.

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We are at the front end of spring break and this is Bike Week in Daytona Beach, so the coast is busy. We brought our own food so we eat in our room and stay away from people. Being super careful before the surgery! I don’t want anything to get in the way.

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The drive yesterday was lovely...sunny and 66 degrees! The wind still had a little nip in it, but so lovely. The trees are budding and flowering here and the grass is green! What a delicious treat! I happened to look down at the odometer and caught it just as it turned over...100,000 miles!!! Wow, no turning back now...she’s mine till I bury her somewhere in a field, I guess!

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I caught a picture yesterday of my Girl Camper bags that I use for luggage. I received one of the medium bags last year for Christmas as my Girl Camper Guide Christmas gift. I loved it so much, I ordered another medium bag and one large bag and had them embroidered with “Girl Camper” as well. I just love the colors and they absolutely make me smile every time I see them. I just went on Land’s End to see if they’re still available in this pretty red and teal plaid, but they aren’t.

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Road trips are so wonderful...even when you can’t get out and do as you please when you get there. Just seeing the road whip by and getting a change of scenery is good for the soul. I’ll be so glad when Thursday is behind us!

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?

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“The Scriptures say: ‘God will tell his angels to take care of you... ””

\nLuke 4:10-11 CEV\n
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\n\n", "date_published": "2021-03-08T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/03/08/day-we-found-spring.html", "tags": ["Health","Travel","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/03/07/day-the-ups-downs-of.html", "title": "Day 356: The Ups \u0026 Downs of Travel", "content_html": "\n
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The View from Fancy Gap, VA Looking Out Over NC

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This feels pretty normal. Well, if you call still wearing an N95 mask and carrying your own cleaning supplies with you to go over the hotel room when you arrive...normal. The drive was the same as always. We popped a frozen container of my homemade beef and noodles in the HotLogic Mini and plugged in into the converter, then plugged the converter in one of the 12v outlets in the truck. Four hours later, when we stopped for gas, we pulled it out and had a nice hot home cooked meal. SO good and so much better for you than fast food.

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I love coming over Fancy Gap. I remember the first time I ever drove this mountain. A friend and I were heading to Myrtle Beach pulling TOW-Wanda and it was raining cats and dogs. The fog was so thick you could hardly see the end of the hood of my truck. I followed the tail lights of the semi in front of my in order to get over the mountain. THAT was a trip!

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The weather was cool and the sunshine was bright. The traffic wasn’t bad at all, even driving through Charlotte at rush hour. That’s what happens when you travel on Saturday. We got a good rate on a room at a Comfort Inn. It isn’t crowded at all. Surprisingly, people are wearing masks. As a matter of fact, other than those in their cars, EVERYONE wore masks. Maybe they’re not falling for this “open everything up everywhere” nonsense. I hope not, because...we’ve seen this movie before and it doesn’t end well.

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I love staying in a hotel. And honestly, it’s not a big deal to strip the bed and put your own mattress cover on it. We used the sheets that were on the bed, but left the thin, sheet like coverlet pulled down. We also used a new antibacterial fabric spray that Tide came out with, so I think we’re good. The only downside is, Mr. FixIt and his TV. Normally in the evenings at our house, I watch the news with him, and maybe an episode or two of The Big Bang, then I’m off to the bedroom to write. But when you’re in a hotel room, there’s no escaping that noise. We worked out a compromise. He watched Indiana Jones...a movie he’s seen a dozen times so he didn’t have to have the sound up too far. And, I had my headphones on with my “writing background”....a thunderstorm. It’s all about give and take in a relationship.

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Day one....done!

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?

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“God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones. You will overpower the strongest lions and the most deadly snakes.”

\nPsalms 91:11-13 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-03-07T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/03/07/day-the-ups-downs-of.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","Comfort","Courage","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2021/02/07/day-the-pushmepullyou.html", "title": "Day 328: The PushMe-PullYou", "content_html": "\n
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Do you remember the movie “Doctor Doolittle”? There was a two-headed llama called a PushMe-PullYou. I always got a kick out of it because...being a Gemini...I could really relate. I’m always going in at LEAST two different directions...often times more. That has become decidedly more difficult since I am “of a certain age” now. But it is complicated by one of the nasty symptoms of my hyperparathyroidism. 

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I have read so much about this disease in the last six months and it’s fascinating. It’s a disease than can cut your life short, yet the culprits are four tiny little glands no bigger than a grain of rice attached to the back of the thyroid. It’s not easy to diagnose. The symptoms can sound like they’re all in your head which, unfortunately, too many doctors assume are. And, they can make you feel like you’re going crazy or getting Alzheimer’s. 

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Once I finally got on the right track towards a diagnosis, then the fight became finding a doctor that believed me. We have to be our own advocates when we are ill. When I grew up, I was taught that doctors are to be revered and never questioned. Then I was was married to one for 21 years and I know for a fact...they put their pants on one leg at a time, just like the rest of us. That being said, it does take a bit of diplomacy when showing your primary care doctor the evidence that substantiates a diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism. It seems, they may put their pants on one leg at a time, but their egos to bruise easily.

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I’ve been blessed that the nurse practitioner in my PCP’s office is the one who ordered my tests and made the diagnosis. I didn’t have any trouble getting a referral to an endocrinologist, however, I was not at all happy with the first one I saw. He essentially blew me off. I had to be assertive (which isn’t always my strong suit) and press for a second opinion. The next endocrinologist totally got what I was saying, evaluated my tests, and agreed...I needed to see an endocrine surgeon.

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I could have tried someone relatively close by...but Hubby #2 definitely suggested I see someone who does a lot of these surgeries. The parathyroid glands are near the vocal chords and you can paralyze one, or both (God forbid) during surgery, so you want someone who knows what their doing. I found that in the Norman Parathyroid Center in Tampa, Florida. I’ve gone through the initial intake and had my consultation with a surgeon. And he agrees...it’s a slam dunk case of a parathyroid adenoma and it needs to come out.

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Last week, I got my surgery scheduled. We have to be there a couple of days early to have a covid test done. We spent the better part of the last couple of days planning our trip to Florida. It will come a couple of weeks after having our second Covid Vaccine shot. We’ll leave Pumpkin at the Kitty Hilton and head south. The first three days won’t be the fun part. Getting there and getting settled in our hotel in downtown Tampa, getting the covid test, and getting my bearings for the trip over on the day of surgery.

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The hotels the center use give you a good discount, and offer free parking and a ride to and from surgery. Because of Covid restriction, Mr. FixIt can’t come to the hospital, so I wanted to get a room nearby that he could be comfortable with. He wanted us to get one place that we would stay in during the whole trip. We want to stay fairly close to the beach, and in order to be more affordable, that would make for at least an hour drive each way. I would be a nervous wreck the morning of surgery if we got stuck in traffic. And if it caused me to miss my surgery...well, that would NOT be good. So, the first three nights are in the city. Then the following six nights are at the beach.

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If one has to have surgery, I can’t think of any place more wonderful to recuperate than a sunny beach on the Gulf Coast of Florida! I found a lovely suite with a kitchenette so we can cook in our room and not have to worry about dining out. And it’s just minutes from great beaches and quaint little tourist towns, and other sites. I felt so much better once I got that all scheduled. Now I just have to reserve a space for the kitty and make sure everything is squared away on the Ponderosa and we’ll be ready to rock and roll. 

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I’ve read many testimonials from other patients and actually have a friend from high school that has had this same surgery. They all remark they had no idea how BAD they felt till they had the surgery and felt wonderful again. Many of them remark the bone pain they have had for years is gone within hours after the surgery. Sometimes it takes a little longer, but most feel markedly better in a short amount of time. I’m really looking forward to getting this over with and I can get on with my life and feel better. I have LOTS of stuff to do yet!

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?

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“Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.””

\nLuke 8:50 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2021-02-07T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2021/02/07/day-the-pushmepullyou.html", "tags": ["Health","Wisdom","Choices","Change","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/11/10/day-on-the-air-withginny.html", "title": "Day 241: On the Air With....Ginny McKinney", "content_html": "\n
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I was up bright and early yesterday...padding into the kitchen, wiping the sleep from my eyes. I hit the button on the coffee grinder, filling the water reservoir to the whirring sound of the burrs. As the coffee drip, drip, dripped, I stared out the kitchen window at the beautiful, crisp morning. 

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I carried my coffee into the office and quietly closed the door behind me. Mr. FixIt was still snoozing and I didn’t want to disturb him. My laptop is not terribly old, but I don’t use it very often anymore. I do all my writing on my iPad. Every time I need to start that laptop, there is invariably 20-30 minutes of updates that slow it down. But, once it’s up and running, everything works great. 

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My interview with WSAZ was scheduled for 10:10 and I was ready. This was the second time I got to be on with them as a camping and travel specialist. The girls on the Lifestyle Desk are heading to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg this week in a really cool motorhome. Fortunately, someone from the RV dealership is driving down with them so they don’t have that learning curve to deal with on top of getting the camping experience under their belts.

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I love interviews. I was telling my dear friend, Janine Pettit...Camper in Chief for Girl Camper...these kinds of things are addictive. Every time you give an interview, you get a little more confident, a little more comfortable. And each time is more fun than the last. 

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You can find the interview on WSAZ’s website HERE. 

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?

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“So I ask you to make full use of the gift God gave you when I placed my hands on you. Use it well. God's Spirit doesn't make cowards out of us. The Spirit gives us power, love, and self-control.”

\n2 Timothy 1:6-7 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-11-10T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/11/10/day-on-the-air-withginny.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Cooking"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/10/18/day-coming-home-to-a.html", "title": "Day 219: Coming Home to a Mystery!", "content_html": "\n
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Eleven and a half hours. Wow...what a drive! At least this time we didn’t have to drive through rain. It was a perfectly gorgeous day. The colors were a bit muted from the recent hard freeze, but the sky was clear and the air was crisp. When we crossed the Blue Ridge Mountains, I could see what looked like wildfire smoke in the distance. The further we went, and the lower the sun set, I became certain that was what I was seeing. I’ve seen enough wildfires in Colorado to know the difference between clouds and smoke. 

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When we got to Tamarack on the West Virginia Turnpike, we could actually smell the smoke. I checked online and there were no fires in West Virginia or the surrounding states. It had to be from Colorado! When we got home last night and I had time to check the government’s air monitoring website, there it was...clear as day. You can follow the plume of smoke in a straight line from Colorado to southern West Virginia where the sun was going down blood red. How eerie...and so sad...and scary. What is happening to our atmosphere from all these wildfires? I really have no idea.

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We finally arrived home about 8:30pm...way past dark. The first thing we saw when we pulled in the drive was tire tracks through the grass alongside the house. We got out the high beam flashlight and followed the tracks all the way around the house and out the driveway on the other side. We checked all the doors. Not a thing was out of place. We looked at each other, baffled. Could we have driven around the house before we left and not remembered? We were trimming branches but that was the week before we left. These tracks had to have been made earlier in the day because the leaves were mashed down. We decided maybe it was time to put up those security cameras we’ve been talking about. But for the time being, there was plenty to get done and we got to work emptying the truck.

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Later in the evening, one of the kids called to say they had come out to get firewood yesterday but they couldn’t find any. Mystery solved! I know it sounds odd, but we live out in the country and our “yard” is actually more of a field that surrounds our house. These people never think twice about driving on what you might think of as a lawn. Things are different in the country. We always parked in the yard at Grandma’s house. 

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Now comes the job of unpacking and putting everything away. NOT my favorite part of vacation. But, we are so grateful to have had time away spent with family and to be delivered back home all safe and sound. Thanks for coming along with me!

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❤️

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“You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.”

\nDeuteronomy 28:6 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-10-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/10/18/day-coming-home-to-a.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Gratitude","Grace","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/10/12/day-rain-rain-go-away.html", "title": "Day 213: Rain, Rain, Go Away!", "content_html": "\n
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When you are on vacation at the beach, it’s supposed to be sunny and warm, right? Well...maybe not so much in October. I’m always a little apprehensive about coming to the beach at this time of the year because of the threat of hurricanes. This year it seems we are getting the tail end of some rain from the latest storms to devastate the south. I think they are clearing out now, hopefully. 

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After a relaxing morning, we decided to drive back up the coast to some Farmer’s Markets we passed on the way down. One was just ok. One was SO crowded, we didn’t even stop. And the last one was just right. I took lots of pictures of pumpkins. I love pumpkins...they are such happy fruit. There were all kinds of jams, jellies, pickles, sauces, relishes, fruits and vegetables canned...at exorbitant prices, I might add. There were still tons of fresh fruits and vegetables available, including strawberries! There had to have been a dozen different varieties of apples for sale and they were gorgeous. Baked goods, fudge, and kettle corn rounded out the selections in the main building. You could buy meat and seafood in the back. And, there was a machine that squeezed oranges and bottled the juice for you while you waited. That smelled divine!

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Mr. FixIt wandered around while I was looking at the jarred goods. When he came back, he told me there was a guy making fried green tomatoes in the central area. He had samples and they were really good. We bought a tray and two fresh BLT’s he had just made on fresh baked bread. By the time we were ready to go back out to the car, the rain was pouring and we had parked clear across the lot. By the time we got to the truck we were soaked, but that little picnic tasted SO good!

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When we walked back into the condo, the AC was running and we were still damp. It took me two hours to warm up. We had such a good time though, so it was all worth it. It was a quiet day filled with football and just hanging out. The kids weren’t here yet when I was writing this. They were due in later in the evening. There are actually a lot more people here than I thought there would be. The last couple of times we were here in the fall, there were hardly any people. I think most of the places offered their timeshare guests the opportunity to still have their week if they came in October. That’s our best guess, anyway. I’m glad we have all of our food here and we don’t have to go anywhere. I have the meals I am responsible for prepared and in the freezer so I’m just pretty much taking it easy this week. It feels really weird to not be doing something or canning something!

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❤️

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“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

\nPsalms 4:8 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-10-12T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/10/12/day-rain-rain-go-away.html", "tags": ["Fun","Peaceful Moments","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/10/11/day-just-a-little-hour.html", "title": "Day 212: Just a Little 12-Hour Road Trip!", "content_html": "\n
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It is only 566 miles from our home to our condo. Google Maps says it will take 8 hours and 37 minutes to make that trip. I would say that is possibly true...in Kansas. But we’re not in Kansas anymore, Toto. Google simply does not understand West Virginia miles. Nor does it take into consideration the tail end of a hurricane passing through or a long and tortuous orange cone season. The last time we were down here was a year and a half ago and they are STILL working on the very same stretches of road. I told Mr. FixIt, I recognized the same piles of dirt! 

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Other than the rain and the road construction it was pretty smooth sailing. Except for the driver’s side windshield wiper. The tip broke off the blade and it slipped further and further out of the channel with every swipe so I had to find a Walmart and get some new blades. By the time I came back out, the rain was pouring but we found a Sheetz station with a canopy and I changed the blades post haste.

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We carted more stuff with us than we ever have this time. We are avoiding the grocery stores here so we brought our own food. I also brought cleaning items and went in the condo and wiped down all the high touch surfaces before we took anything in. The sheets and pillows were provided. We don’t mind sleeping on sheets that we can tell were washed well, but we still brought our own pillows. We brought our own blankets as well. And, the first thing I did was strip the bed and put a brand new mattress cover on the bed. My stepson bought them for both the A & B sides and will leave them with us. That way, we can launder them, put them away, and bring them the next time we come down.

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It is really a shame it was so cloudy, rainy and foggy coming through the West Virginia mountains. The colors are magnificent this year, and if it would have been sunny, I could have gotten some great shots. Instead, I snuggled up under my car comforter and fell asleep for Mr. FixIt’s first driving shift. We only saw one small accident on the way down and thank God that He delivered us safely here. The kids arrive sometime late today! I’ve never had a “family vacation” except when my own kids were little. Family beach vacations are de rigueur for my husband’s family so I’m pretty stoked!

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❤️

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“If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”

\n‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139:9-10‬ ‭NIV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-10-11T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/10/11/day-just-a-little-hour.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Love","Road Trip","Memories","Marriage"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/10/10/day-ten-ten-twenty-twenty.html", "title": "Day 211: Ten Ten Twenty Twenty", "content_html": "\n
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Mr. FixIt and I had a list as long as your arm yesterday and everything had to be timed according to when businesses opened and closed. One of the last errands was to get ice for the cooler. We pulled into the parking lot of the Ice House and the strongest memories washed over me. When I was really little, we used to go to my Aunt Marge’s house for visits and we often took a block of ice with us so she could make us her world famous homemade peach ice cream.

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Sitting there, looking at the delivery bay, the stairs with the iron pipe railing and the painted cinderblock building just pulled me back to my little girl self. I was standing on the floor in the front seat of our 1952 Oldsmobile 98...remember how big those cars were? I stood there watching my dad climb the steps and return in a few minutes with a big block of ice. He wrapped it in newspaper and put it in a box in the trunk, then threw an old quilt over it to keep it from melting too much before we got to my aunt’s house.

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The sign at the Ice House means summer and peach ice cream, cold watermelons, fried chicken in a basket and checkered tablecloth. It meant car rides with the windows down...holding your hand out the window, experimenting with aerodynamics or maybe the pinwheel you were lucky enough to get at the Five & Dime. It meant pin-curls and ponytails, seersucker sun suits and a new pair of Keds. It meant mom in a crisp sundress and dad in slacks with a soft white shirt with the sleeves rolled up. It meant love.

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A man came out to the railing and asked if he could help us. We asked for a block or two of ice for our cooler. He said they stopped making the blocks a few years ago...the only sold a couple a year. They didn’t have dry ice either. That is being saved for his medical clients because of covid. He said even if we had an account, the smallest he could sell us was fifty pounds. We talked a little how times have changed and I told him about my fond memories of this place. What is really cool, though...Mr. FixIt has much the same memories as I do since we both grew up here. It’s one of the things that makes being with him so special...our common history.

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We ended up buying a big bag of ice at the store when we picked up the last of the items we needed for our trip. We came home and put the cover over TOW-Wanda for the winter. I didn’t get her ready to sell in time, so I’ll try in the spring. This will protect her from the weather and I’ll sell her in the spring.

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So, I have everything I can get done...done. If it isn’t, so be it. I have my knitting and my writing implements and a few magazines packed. Lots of food. And I am taking my big electric skillet. There aren’t a lot of pots and pans in the condo and this will serve double and triple duty. We are driving straight through today. I’m really looking forward to seeing the colors in the mountains and can’t wait to see the beach!!!

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❤️

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“God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones.”

\nPsalms 91:11-12 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-10-10T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/10/10/day-ten-ten-twenty-twenty.html", "tags": ["Travel","Gratitude","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/08/23/day-burning-down-my-memories.html", "title": "Day 158: Burning Down My Memories", "content_html": "\n
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I was a new widow when I bought my first camper. A little 16’ job with everything I needed. I miss that little camper...the original TOW-Wanda. I still regret trading her in for the big behemoth I own now, but...water under the bridge, you know.

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I always wanted a camper although I had never pulled one. I camped in a tent a couple of times and once drove cross country in an old VW Poptop Van, but actually having my own camper eluded me. 

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I tried to get Hubby #2 to buy one and he refused. It never occurred to me to go out and buy one myself. I wasn’t brave enough to do such a thing back then. But Mr. Virgo understood my wanderlust and, while not an avid camper himself, was anxious to see that I got to do all the fun things I wanted.

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When he died suddenly while we were looking at the camper for our retirement, I thought my dreams would end there. But, something stirred within me almost from the beginning of widowhood. I was determined to have that camper and found a way to make it work.

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Little TOW-Wanda came into my life just a few weeks after the funeral. I carefully stocked her and as soon as the spring snows melted, I was off on The Grand Adventure through the wilderness and backroads of Colorado by myself.

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I am so glad there were no forest fires to speak of that summer, or I might have lost the heart for this fun way of life. I traveled a circle clear around the state at least twice in those three months. One particularly beautiful stretch was heading west on Colorado Route 14 through Poudre Canyon. I hadn’t been through there since the High Park Fire of 2012 the year before. It was devastating to see the blackened vegetation...the trees standing like gnarled fingers pointing to the sky.

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I drove to the far west end where the fire had spared the canyon. I found an empty campsite right on the edge of the Cache la Poudre River and backed in. It was early in the camping season. The kids were still in school, and I had just about every campground I went to all to myself. 

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I had camped in Rocky Mountain National Park for a few days prior to my arrival in Poudre Canyon. I saw wildlife galore on that trip...elk, deer, turkey, mink, ermine, marmot, Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls, moose, coyotes. Everything except a bear. The last morning at this campsite, I talked with Mr. Virgo...as I did most mornings. I thanked him for bringing all the beautiful animals to enjoy...I really appreciated them. But, could he please just bring me at least one bear???

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I packed up and headed west on Colorado 14 and began the long, steady climb up to Cameron Pass. By the time I got to Joe Wright Reservoir, my engine was getting a little hot. I decided to pull in the parking area and gaze at the still frozen water. Signs of spring were coming to the high country as the fresh green leaves were popping out on the aspen trees and the undergrowth was beginning to show signs of life. Finally, when the engine and transmission were cooled, I took off to the tip top of the pass.

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I had just crested the pass at 10, 249’ and began the slow descent down when I noticed the most odd thing. Someone had placed a huge statue of a bear, right along the highway where it makes a sharp bend to the right. I slowed down to look at it, then realized...to my sheer delight...it was a real, live bear! Standing on the edge of the road, the sheer drop off behind him. I stopped the truck and stared. Thank God there wasn’t someone coming along behind me! I tried to snap a photo of the bear, but the memory was full on my phone and by the time I reached for my digital camera, it had disappeared over the edge. I realized that memory was for me alone. 

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I don’t believe I have seen another bear in the wilds of Colorado since that one magical morning on Cameron Pass. And now...Cameron Pass is burning, as is much of Colorado and points west. Climate change has brought increasing drought and prevailing winds so the fires continue to become worse and worse.

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I don’t know when, or if, I will ever have the opportunity to go on an adventure like that again. But I must say...the memories of those three months pulling my camper through the majestic Rocky Mountains have never faded and remind me of God’s reckless love for me...to grace me with these memories that still fill my heart.

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❤️

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“God is the one who rules the whole earth, and we that live here are merely insects. He spread out the heavens like a curtain or an open tent.”

\nIsaiah 40:22 CEV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-08-23T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/08/23/day-burning-down-my-memories.html", "tags": ["Travel","Uplifting Stories","Strong Women","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","God","Wisdom","Peaceful Moments","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/02/13/the-partys-almost-over.html", "title": "The Party’s (Almost) Over", "content_html": "\n
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Have fun little girl!!!
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I didn’t sleep well at all my last night in the little rpod. I lifted the shade over the bed at about 1:00 in the morning and watched the clouds flitting over the bright, shiny moon. I smiled as I thought of all the beautiful places I’ve been in it. I felt my phone buzz and saw my friend Diane had texted me. She’s the “non-camper” that I took camping back in early October. She wanted to know if I was still in the camper. (Yes, we often chat in the idle of the night...we are both night owls.) Finally, we both decided we might sleep if we had a bowl of cereal. lol

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As I sat nibbling on Raisin Bran, I got to thinking...wouldn’t it be nice if you could tow a camper around and live in it a little bit before you buy it? You can rent some models, but it is not an exhaustive list to choose from. I knew within a week of living in Big TOW-Wanda that there were things I really didn’t like about it. For one, the windows didn’t open very far and you never really got a nice cross breeze.

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After having this little beauty for the last five months, I’ve just about decided to sell the big camper and downsize to the rpod 196. There’s really nothing major I would want to change on it. I think I would put some sort of rain guards or an awning over the tops of the sliding windows so I could have them wide open when it rains. Other than that...it’s golden. And that comes from really living in it over time.

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I was telling Mr. FixIt how much I would miss this camper and being on the road with her, but just as much as that, I am looking forward to getting some things done around the house that have been pushed to the back burner. I’m not sure how much camping we’ll get to do this summer anyway with all the work that needs doing on the house in order to get it on the market. I do know there will be a trip to Colorado!

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When I did finally wake up yesterday after a fitful hour or two of sleep, it was so quiet. No rain! The rivers are high and overflowing all around and this little respite was short lived. As soon as I got the rest of the items packed up and the bed stripped, the drizzly rain started again. I hooked up in the wet and waited till I got to Setzer’s to sweep out the camper. It was useless to do it beforehand with all the dirt and wet I was tracking in.

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I hauled on over to the dealership and unhooked in what was now a very steady rain. Everything was out of the camper and I handed over the keys. It felt really weird to leave without towing something! As I pulled away, I stopped and snapped this picture and said a quick prayer...for the new owners...and for safe travels home for both of us. She’s gonna make someone very, very happy in a couple of days!

\n\n\n

And now...back to work!

\n\n\n

Here’s the link for the camper. If you buy a ticket (or three) I promise I’ll stop bombarding you with these links. (Ohhhh, that’s not fair. The raffle ends tonight at midnight. Still...) There are also links in the story for all the wonderful companies who partnered with us to bring the camper from “Factory to Fabulous” as well as the HoldYou Foundation. It’s worth your while to go check them out.

\n\n\n
\n[girlcamper.com/introduci...](https://girlcamper.com/introducing-the-r-pod-196-from-factory-to-fabulous/)\n
\n\n\n

❤️

\n\n\n
\n

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

\nGalatians 6:9 NIV\n
\n\n\n

\n\n", "date_published": "2020-02-13T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/02/13/the-partys-almost-over.html", "tags": ["Uplifting Stories","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","goRVing","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/02/12/please-sharethe-last-chance-for.html", "title": "Please Share...the Last Chance for Raffle Tickets!", "content_html": "\n
\"\"
Praying for lots of ticket sales to help the families of critically ill children. And, for the new owners of this sweet little camper!
\n\n\n

The last five months have been SO much fun! Traveling through five states, camping at several state parks and private campgrounds, over 6,000 miles driven, plus some boondocking off the grid. All in one of the coolest little campers I’ve ever had the privilege to spend time in. I’m seriously considering selling Big TOW-Wanda and getting an rpod 196. I love the floor plan, it is so super easy to tow, the kitchen is really workable, the sofa is honestly indistinguishable from a residential as far as comfort (and folds down into a twin bed to boot!) There is SO much storage and the bed is situated so no one has to crawl over their bed partner to get out in the middle of the night. And to top it all off, the windows let in an amazing amount of light. They had me when I saw the window over the bed!

\n\n\n

I spent the day yesterday clearing out the things I’ve toted around with me on the trip. It’s amazing what can accumulate in five short months! There were things that stay with the camper, things that go back to Janine, things that go home, and things to throw away. As I sat and sorted, I prayed for the new owners of this little camper...that they see beautiful sights, that they enjoy peaceful solitude and/or family adventures, and that all their travels are safe and secure.

\n\n\n

Thank you all so much for joining me on this journey! I’ll post a farewell photo tomorrow. In the meantime, if you could please do us the honor of sharing this link with everyone you know, I would be ever so grateful. The monies from ticket sales goes to the HoldYou Foundation to assist families who have critically ill children with the practical things they need...keeping the lights on, buying groceries, gas for the car to get their child to and from the doctor. It’s a wonderful charity that the Girl Campers supports wholeheartedly. If you have access to a newsletter or mailing list, that would extra super special! We are getting down to the wire now. We have extended the hours to purchase tickets to midnight on Valentine’s Day! Wahoo!

\n\n\n
\n[girlcamper.com/introduci...](https://girlcamper.com/introducing-the-r-pod-196-from-factory-to-fabulous/)\n
\n\n\n

❤️

\n\n\n
\n

“and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”

\nIsaiah 58:10 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-02-12T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/02/12/please-sharethe-last-chance-for.html", "tags": ["Uplifting Stories","Prayer","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","goRVing","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/02/11/raindrops-resting.html", "title": "Raindrops \u0026 Resting", "content_html": "\n
\"\"
On a rainy day, I head to the campground with the sweetest little camper in tow...the rpod 196.
\n\n\n

Getting the camper out of the mall was a lot easier than getting it in there. When I took it in, it was facing in the opposite direction of where I wanted it. And, when we made the arrangements to display the camper in the first place, we all failed to take into consideration the full length of the camper plus the hitch and the truck. There was no way I could make enough three corner turns to get it turned around on my own.

\n\n\n

The maintenance man came to the rescue with a wooden pallet and a floor jack with a fork lift on it. We unhitched onto the pallet and he manually turned the camper till it was where it needed to be....which happened to be in exactly the perfect spot to hook up to the truck and pull it out.

\n\n\n

I had such a blast driving it through the mall. There are tons of walkers there in the mornings and I was there bright and early to avoid the crowds. I waved as I slowly drove behind the security guard who walked ahead of me making sure everyone knew I was coming out with this monstrosity behind me.

\n\n\n

I was really glad to see it was raining and warm yesterday morning. It would have been a real mess if it had been snowing. I got on the interstate at around 10:00am. I had a reservation already made at the campground, a hot cup of coffee, and my GPS. I didn’t need directions to where I was going, but I like knowing how much further I have to go when I am towing. 

\n\n\n

It rained like crazy while I was driving down here. At one point, as I was crossing a river, I could barely see through the rain. Luckily, I wasn’t driving very fast when I hit some standing water and felt the camper fishtail a little bit. It is very important not to hit your brakes when you feel that because you can easily hydroplane out of control. I took my foot off the brake and the camper came right back in line. I dropped my speed an additional 5mph and let people go around me if they wanted to.

\n\n\n

The staff at the campground were waiting for me with warm greetings. One of the nice things about camping in the off season is people have the time to chat a spell. Mary was delightful. There was a young man in a golf cart to escort me to my site. I was a little disappointed in the price of the campsite, but pickings are slim in this neck of the woods so I took what I could get. It is a full hookup site which doesn’t do me any good other than the electric since the camper is winterized. I am conveniently located near the bathhouse which is handy.

\n\n\n

I was up very late the night before and awoke early yesterday. I had to unhook in the pouring rain so the first thing I did was get the heater going. I had to remove the propane tank when the camper was on display in the mall. Whenever you hook up a new tank to the gas lines on a camper, you have to bleed the air out of the lines till the propane gets through. This involves turning on a burner on the stove and holding a long handled lighter flame to the burner till it catches. Then you turn on the second one. Once you turn off the burners, you can start the furnace and it should light right up, which it did.

\n\n\n

The next step was to turn on the refrigerator in preparation for getting a few groceries later. But first, I was chilled to the bone so I piled the blankets on the bed and crawled in till I was nice a toasty. Around 3:00, I went to the Piggly Wiggly for some food to get me by for a couple of days. I will turn in the camper on Wednesday and head back home.

\n\n\n

As I am writing this, there is a gentle rain falling and bigger drops falling from the trees overhead. I love this sound. I have my electric blanket on and this wonderful rechargeable lamp from FLI Products is casting a warm glow to the room giving it such a homey feel. When I first saw the wallpaper in this camper, I have to admit...I was slightly taken aback. But I have come to absolutely love it! It’s so cheerful with the colors and patterns and I think Janine did a tremendous job. Spoonflower has over 750,000 patterns to choose from and I never would have thought to put these patterns and colors together. But they really work. I will definitely keep them in mind the next time I decorate a camper and make it my own.

\n\n\n

Today is all about writing and cleaning out the camper. It is a bittersweet day, but I bought myself something special to cook in my Hot Logic Mini portable cooker so I’ll have a yummy dinner waiting when I’m done!

\n\n\n

❤️

\n\n\n
\n

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”

\n1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-02-11T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/02/11/raindrops-resting.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","West Virginia","goRVing","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2020/02/10/the-last-trip-with-the.html", "title": "The Last Trip with the RPod and The First Trip of 2020", "content_html": "\n
\"\"
Heading out for the last trip in the rpod today! What a fun little camper this has been. Don’t forget to buy your tickets!
\n\n\n

Well, today I go get the rpod and drive her out of the mall. The raffle is this Friday (Valentines Day!) so I’m taking her out on one last camping trip before she goes into storage to await her new owner.

\n\n\n

The last trip in this sweet little camper. I have really enjoyed my time with her. And, it’s my first road trip/camping trip of 2020! I’m looking forward to snuggling up for a couple of days of writing and cleaning things out.

\n\n\n

It’s been a crazy busy, super fun five months! I was just telling Mr. FixIt over the weekend that I haven’t had time to even consider Seasonal Affective Disorder this winter. Part of that is the mild winter we’re having. And part is all the writing and traveling I’ve been doing. 

\n\n\n

I am looking forward to having a little rest this week then I’m getting busy stripping wallpaper in the dining room! As my sweet husband says...life is always an adventure with Ginny McKinney!

\n\n\n

❤️

\n\n\n
\n

“Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.”

\n2 Corinthians 8:11 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2020-02-10T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2020/02/10/the-last-trip-with-the.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/11/06/safety-on-the-road.html", "title": "Safety on the Road", "content_html": "

\"Camping “Being safe in the woods means staying aware of your surroundings and listening to your gut.”

\n

There were only two times on this last trip that my antennae went up as I paid close attention to what was happening around me. The first time was when I was at Calhoun County Park trying to see a meteor shower. This park only has eight campsites in the first place. And I was there in the middle of the week after school started so there was no one up there camping. There were people in the community building both evenings but they didn’t come over near me.

\n

Sometime after dark on the second night, a car drove slowly by my camper out to the end of the park and stayed there for about ten minutes. I turned off all the lights in the camper and peeked out from behind the blinds. The car came back and just drove right on by without slowing down, so the tension in my shoulders eased. Mr. FixIt told me he very nearly came out to camp with me out there but he resisted the urge.

\n

The second time I was even remotely concerned was at the last campground I stayed. Twin Falls is stunningly beautiful, as you can tell by the photos I took. But the campground itself is located on the very top of a long and winding mountain, pretty far away from the main park buildings. At this time of year, the campground office and store is closed and there wasn’t a campground host.

\n

On the first night, I read the story about the couple who were boondocking on South Padre Island and went missing. Then surveillance video showed a man and woman, not the owners, driving the truck and camper across the border into Mexico. They were later found buried in shallow graves on the beach. This freaked me out, I will not lie. The next evening, the man who was camping over on the next row walked through the woods between us to come talk to me when I pulled in after spending time at the lodge, writing.

\n

He told me he had tried to flag down the park worker who had just driven through the campground on a side-by-side but couldn’t catch his attention. He also said he didn’t have a phone so he couldn’t call anyone. He told me someone had come to the bath house earlier in the afternoon and their car was there for a couple of hours. After they had gone, this man went over to the bath house and someone had smeared feces all over one of the stalls in the men’s room. 

\n

Ok, that was creepy, but the man seemed harmless enough. After all, he introduced himself by name. And I know stuff happens in campgrounds. I know how to handle myself and to watch what’s going on. I told him I would let someone at the park office know what had happened and he was grateful. As he turned to leave, he swung back around with a big smile and said, “I suppose you saw me all over the news last night!”

\n

Um…no, I did not. I thought to myself…what did you do that put you on the news?

\n

I swung the door of my truck closed. Then he proceeded to tell me he rode his bicycle all the way from California to look for the father he never knew. Apparently the news had followed him across the country on his quest. I wished him luck finding his dad and I went to tell someone about the men’s room.

\n

That was the night when the truck started making a grinding noise and the first thing that went through my head was “What do I do if I get stuck here? What if the bathroom vandal came back? What if “Bicycle Man” wanted to get friendly?” My imagination started to get the better of me and I had to pray myself to peace. And ask my gal pals to pray for me as well. And, I texted Mr. FixIt to come “help me check out this truck”. 

\n

I wasn’t really scared. But I was leery. And I was tired and a little road weary after six weeks of camping. It didn’t hurt a bit to get my strong, capable husband to come help me out and be my encourager. He told me he ran into one of my friends at the mall that week. She had been reading about my journey and she told Mr. FixIt she didn’t think she could do that and didn’t I get scared?

\n

“Nope! She’s the bravest woman I know!” 

\n

Knowing he feels that way about me, and that he worries but lets me have my lead, makes me feel wonderful. I have spoken with my closest friends about this….I could never, EVER have done what I’m doing while I was married to Mr. Virgo. Not only did I lack the self confidence, but he would NOT have liked me being gone. He didn’t like me being gone for the weekend to Denver to see the kids. He wouldn’t have stood for me being gone the majority of six weeks. As a matter of fact, when we first started dating, he said he wasn’t interested in dating someone who wanted to spend much time apart. 

\n

Mr. Virgo liked me being right there with him. When he watched TV, he liked me to watch TV with him. He didn’t like it if I was on the computer or the iPad or the phone either. Because, he wanted to discuss the show with me during the commercials. I did these things because I loved him, not because I loved watching TV. When you’re married, you do things sometimes that you don’t particularly enjoy. It’s called compromise.

\n

Mr. FixIt came into my life when I was a free-spirited, independent, remote-camping gypsy who spends long hours writing. He knew what he was getting and gives me space to grow and spread my wings. That’s one of the things I love about him. I make it up to him by traveling and going to the beach and never saying a word about his bowling two nights a week. I cook him yummy meals and take him camping whenever I can. We treat each other with respect, honoring each other’s interests, and we have a lot of fun together.

\n

It’s a win-win for us both.

\n

❤️

\n
“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”\n

Ephesians 5:33 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-11-06T02:30:14-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/11/06/safety-on-the-road.html", "tags": ["Faith","Overcoming Obstacles","Camping","West Virginia","Growth","goRVing","Wisdom","Courage","Warning","Choices","Widow","Road Trip","Marriage"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/11/03/back-to-the-comforts-of.html", "title": "Back to the Comforts of Home", "content_html": "

\"Camping “My little office on the go in the R-Pod 196”

\n

One thing I really was challenged by with I was touring West Virginia was internet accessibility. If it weren’t for the fact I’m a writer and I had deadlines to meet, I wouldn’t have really cared. But when you write every day, for yourself and for others, you have to be creative in how you stay connected.

\n

There was a delicate balance I walked. On the one hand, I needed accessibility. On the other, I craved getting lost in the woods. I chose campsites based on the view first. I always looked at the campground maps when I made my reservations and chose the one off by itself. The one with the view….the quiet…the peace. My second criteria was electric. I didn’t really need water or sewer hookups. The r-pod has plenty of water tank capacity, both fresh and wastewater.

\n

My last question was always, “Where can I get cell or wifi?” There were campgrounds I stayed in that had neither. In that case, I drove to the lodge to use theirs. There was one campground that had AT&T, but not Verizon. This picture was taken in the kitchen of the r-pod while I was camped at Watoga. I was pleased when the camp-host said the campground has WiFi at both bath houses. Then he added, “It’s really slow, though.”

\n

He wasn’t kidding. One little bar. As a matter of fact, every place I stayed had either one little bar of cell or one little bar of WiFi. It was a tad frustrating. Anyway, there at Watoga I happened to be camped right beside the bath house. And, if I was away from that window, I couldn’t send or receive anything. I stood a lot at that window when it was time to upload my posts or check my e-mail or Facebook. This was my little office that particular week.

\n

I was telling Mr. FixIt about this the other night when he came to camp with me at Twin Falls. I told him I used to complain about the WiFi at home. Now it’s going to feel like high-speed fiber-optics! Well, until I get used to it and then I’m liable to complain again at how slow it is. 

\n

Yesterday was a much better day. Mr. FixIt and I went to town to buy a warming pad and a storage tote to make Pumpkin a nice warm bed out in the pole building. We also bought a litter box. We already had the feeding dish/water bowl combo. I think Pumpkin is a girl but we’ll know for sure when we take her in to get her shots and checkup on Tuesday.  Now I feel really good about her bedding situation and she has already come to love the building. I think she feels safe in there.

\n

I’m so excited to go to my home church today. I have really missed my church family! I’m heading out to the farm this afternoon after church to get the house ready for winter. And then there will be far less items on that very long to-do list. Giving myself permission to have some down time with family and falling in love with a little black kitten just might be the best things I’ve done for myself in a very long time.

\n

❤️

\n
““Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is.”\n

Psalms 39:4 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-11-03T02:30:13-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/11/03/back-to-the-comforts-of.html", "tags": ["Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Comfort","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/11/01/reentry-begins.html", "title": "Re-Entry Begins!", "content_html": "

\"Black “And, just like that…two became three.”

\n

It was a very long day yesterday. I ended up pulling the camper myself with my truck and it did fine. Mr. FixIt is pretty sure the problem was a rock in the brakes. We’ll get it checked before we head anywhere with it. That was a big relief. 

\n

The weather yesterday was terrible driving home. We came through some torrential rain and as soon as we got home, the weather channel gave a tornado warning from the same storm. There are thousands without power from the wind. It seems I got home just in time for some wintery weather. I’ll have to winterize the camper after all…something I was hoping to avoid by heading south. We’ll still get there, but there’s quite a lot of work that needs to be done here at the Ponderosa before we can leave. The cold weather just caught up with me, I’m afraid.

\n

As I’m writing this, I am home and snuggled in bed…in the camper! I can’t give it up yet. Re-entry has always been a problem for me. I love sleeping in a camper and this camper is especially comfortable. So, we’ll try a little cold weather camping this week and see how she does. After all, we’re out on five acres…it’s like our own little campground!

\n

Another little thing happened yesterday. My world shifted. Mr. FixIt sat me down after breakfast yesterday and told me he had something to tell me. Oh, what woman wants to hear THAT? It seems, that while I was gone Mr. FixIt has been keeping company with someone else…a little black kitten that someone dumped at the Ponderosa. He’s been feeding it. Honestly, I didn’t know what to say. I’ve been determined to never have another pet. Then, when I got out of my truck at the house, this little black fur ball came running to me like it had been waiting its whole little life for ME! I’ve never seen such a friendly cat and my heart melted.

\n

And, like that…two became three.

\n

We have a cat!

\n

❤️

\n
“There is no fear in love...”\n

1 John 4:18 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-11-01T01:30:08-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/11/01/reentry-begins.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Love","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","The Cats","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/31/the-red-carpet-treatment.html", "title": "The Red Carpet Treatment", "content_html": "

\"R-Pod “Sitting on a red carpet of maple leaves, the 2020 R-Pod 196 is one of my favorite campers.”

\n

You know the story of the toothache going away as soon as you get to the dentist? Well, Mr. FixIt is here (YAY!!!) and we took the truck for a long drive…all round the park, up and down hills, around and around curves and…..nothing. Not a sound. Except, when I very first pulled out of the campsite, the brakes squeaked. A long time ago, I was driving over a dirt road in the boonies of Colorado and suddenly the car started making this horrible grinding, screaming noise. When I stopped…the noise stopped. I had no idea what to do. Finally, a couple stopped and asked what was wrong. 

\n

When I described the noise to the man, he suggested perhaps I had a rock stuck in the brakes. He directed me to put my foot on the brake, put the car in reverse, and back up with my foot still on the brake. When I did, the rock was dislodged. I don’t know if that was the problem here, but when I pulled forward again with the truck, there was no squeak, no grinding…nothing. Good news…I hope! Great news…Mr. FixIt is here!!!

\n

Since the truck seemed to be working fine, we went for a hike to see the falls here in Twin Falls State Park. It rained and was a little chilly so when we got back to the camper, I heated up some chili I had in the freezer. It really hit the spot. 

\n

So, this was the last night of the West Virginia Tour. It was so, so beautiful. And the r-pod worked perfectly. We’ll pull it home with Mr. FixIt’s truck today and watch my truck carefully. When I get home, I’ll have it checked to make sure it really is ok. I’ll leave you with a last look at the camper sitting on a beautiful red carpet of maple leaves. This part of the tour has been really special and I can’t wait to get back on the road to head south.

\n

In the meantime, I’m going to spend a few days at home for some much needed family time and attend my home church on Sunday. Thanks so much for traveling along with me! 

\n

? 

\n
“The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”\n‭‭Psalms‬ ‭121:7-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬
\n", "date_published": "2019-10-31T01:30:59-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/31/the-red-carpet-treatment.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Marriage","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/30/premonitions-and-pioneers.html", "title": "Premonitions and Pioneers", "content_html": "

\"Pioneer ‘Visiting a Pioneer Farm is a step back in time.”

\n

Yesterday was a strange day from the get go. I woke up at 3:30 in the morning knowing something wasn’t right. I couldn’t put my finger on it, but I had an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. After determining I hadn’t eaten anything that would cause such a feeling, I got up, wrapped my camp jacket around me and stepped outside to look at the stars. The sky was crystal clear and the stars looked so close you could just reach up and touch them. I stood there for awhile in my bare feet letting the energy from the earth seep up through my body. When I was sufficiently chilled, literally and figuratively, I went back to bed. But I couldn’t get back to sleep until dawn.

\n

I finally woke up at around 10:00…absolutely unheard of for me these days. I’m usually awake with the chickens. I stumbled around, did my morning toilette, then dressed and cleaned the camper. Finally around 11:30, I packed up my writing implements and headed for the lodge and good WiFi. I created a movie of the best photos I’d taken on this WV tour and wrote till about 3:00 in the afternoon. 

\n

I headed to the Pioneer Farm that’s on the back of the park property. This farm was abandoned for a long time, but people were always vandalizing it so now there is a farmer and his family living here. There was no one home when I was there so I wandered around taking pictures and marveling at its timeless beauty. I sat for a while and watched two horses and a donkey browse on the sparse grass in the meadow and felt more peaceful than I had most of the day.

\n

On my way back to the campground, I stopped at the Nature Center and introduced myself to the Naturalist. Tammy is a cat bird. She has a coal country drawl that put me in mind of the Deep South but she assured me she was born and raised within a stone’s throw of the park. She apologized that she had recently let all the critters go. She normally traps possums and raccoons, tags them, and keeps them in the Nature Center for a few weeks to teach people about them. Then she sends them back off into the wild to track their whereabouts and traps another one to tag.

\n

Tammy wasn’t originally hired to be a Park Naturalist. She was supposed to be a campground attendant. She doesn’t have a degree in biology, but she has a knack for nature…two and four legged. She was taking campers for nature hikes when the Park Administrators saw they had a gem in Tammy and told her she should apply for the Naturalist position. And the rest is history. She was a delight to talk with. She smiled as I left and called after me…”Put me in your book!” You bet I will, Tammy!

\n

As I was pulling back into the campground, it happened. There was a low grinding noise coming from my truck and I knew that is where my uneasiness was coming from. Something hasn’t been quite right with the truck for a couple of days but I just couldn’t discern exactly what was troubling me. A sound, maybe? A smell, perhaps? Whatever it was, I kept shifting it to the back of my mind…yet still monitored the situation.

\n

When I heard that noise, I knew there was something mechanically wrong with the truck. And that puts me in an uncomfortable position. First, I am here alone. There are two other campers in all of the campground and I am grateful for them. But they aren’t going to help me in this situation. I do not like being in a situation I cannot get out of quickly. It stems from being trapped in a garage as a young child and sexually assaulted. To say I have control issues is putting it mildly.

\n

I went into the camper and made myself sit down and think. What I wanted to do was hook up the camper and get out of here, but of course…that wasn’t the right thing to do. I texted Mr. FixIt but I knew he was working and his phone would be in the truck. Then I texted my besties, Janine and Gail, and asked them to pray that I would calm down and everything would work out. Within minutes I felt much better and realized this whole thing is an adventure and an educational opportunity, so why not make the most of it!

\n

Mr. FixIt called me a few hours later and he’s going to drive down this morning. He’ll check out my truck. We can tow the camper with his truck. And, either he’ll follow me to a mechanic or we’ll have the truck towed. That’s what I have AAA Plus for. We’ll go home tomorrow. I am so grateful for my friends who pray for me. And I am exceedingly grateful for a wonderful husband who takes good care of me. Wouldn’t you know it would happen at the last park on the last day? But I’m exactly where I should be. I have everything I need right here and I can get some work done while I wait. Thank God I wasn’t pulling the camper up the side of the mountain with no cell service!

\n

❤️

\n
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”\n

Philippians 4:19 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-30T01:30:07-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/30/premonitions-and-pioneers.html", "tags": ["Faith","Family","Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Prayer","Camping","West Virginia","Gratitude","Grace","God","Courage","Warning","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Change","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/29/welcome-to-my-living-room.html", "title": "Welcome to my Living Room!", "content_html": "

\"Woman “The camper is the kitchen, bath, and bedroom…the great outdoors is where I live!”

\n

I got to my new campsite in the middle of the afternoon. The mountains I drove over yesterday weren’t anything like the ones last week but man, the road up into the campground here at the park is really, really steep! This truck did a great job pulling the r-pod in these West Virginia hills. When I arrived at my site, I was amazed to have this entire mountaintop to myself! I didn’t have any concerns about that, but I was pleased to see two more couples come into the campground with trailers. 

\n

It’s quiet as a church mouse up here. I heard some owls just after dark and a coal train. And the squirrels were in the hickory trees all around me all afternoon. I opened the awning and set up my chair outside and enjoyed the 75° temps and the warm sunshine. A few weeks ago, I purchased an adapter for my tripod so I could use the iPad as a camera. I got it out and played with it for awhile. I had a blast setting the timer for 10 seconds then running to see if I could get in the picture in time!

\n

I wanted to tell you about what happened yesterday. I always sit in my truck before I pull out and pray for travel mercies. I list off all the things I’m going to be talking with Him about as I drive. Then I pray the Prayer of Jabez and ask Him to send me whoever He needs me to talk with that day. I hadn’t driven a hundred feet when I came around a corner and there was a whole crowd of folks my age sitting around a campfire. I stopped and rolled down my window.

\n

“You kids look like you’re having entirely too much fun!”

\n

“Oh, we are!!!” Everyone turned around and smiled and waved. We made some small talk and one of the gals asked if I was traveling alone. I told her all about Girl Campers and how I’m taking this camper around for a few months and we are raffling it off. One thing led to another and the subject of my writing came up. When I told them my writing is faith based and that I even have a Sunday Evening Prayer Circle, one woman came over and took my hand and asked if I would pray for her granddaughter who is sick with ulcerative colitis. I opened my blog and added her name to the prayer list. Before I left them, I took their hands and prayed with them…right there in the campground. God is so good…I asked, He delivered. Immediately! I know it happens so often, I shouldn’t be amazed. But I am always in awe at that.

\n

I’m in the home stretch of the West Virginia tour now. Just one, maybe two more nights and I’ll be back at the Ponderosa for a few days. It’s been such an amazing trip and I’ve seen some beautiful places. I’m looking forward to heading south next week. If you all have any recommendations for campgrounds or state parks in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina…I’d love to hear them!

\n

❤️

\n
“Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, “I gave birth to him in pain.” Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.”\n

1 Chronicles 4:9-10 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/29/welcome-to-my-living-room.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Prayer","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Growth","Gratitude","Grace","God","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/28/rounding-out-october.html", "title": "Rounding Out October", "content_html": "

\"Bluestone “Bluestone Lake is gorgeous this time of year.”

\n

Today is moving day so that means I get to tell you where I have been the last few days. I arrived at Pipestem Resort State Park on Thursday. I’ve been here before, but never camping. There’s a tram that takes you down in the canyon to the lower lodge that sits on the Bluestone River. There is a restaurant, gift shop, and artisan center on the canyon rim at the top of the tram. There is an equestrian center, golf course, pool, recreation center, nature center and a main lodge with every amenity you could want.

\n

The campground is large. The interior sites have full hookups and are pretty close together. The sites around the perimeter are roomier and of course they back up to woods. There is a very large camping area with no hookups. I was told there is a major upgrade coming adding more service sites and leveling them out…something that is sorely needed.

\n

The weather has been typical WV autumn…unpredictable. Yesterday dawned sunny and clear but within an hour we were socked in with clouds. Then, by 3:00, it was sunny again clear through sunset. The foliage is still beautiful but is definitely past the peak of color. This happens where we get cold, rain, and wind…which we had last night.

\n

I drove over to Bluestone State Park yesterday. There is a large dam on the Bluestone River which has created a large lake. The park is smaller, less developed, and more remote then Pipestem which is less than ten miles away. There is one main campground with a few full service sites and electric only sites. There is a more primitive and rustic campground on up the road. The primitive campground sits right on the lake and is popular for fishing.

\n

One thing I thought was pretty cool. There is a campground on the far side of the lake that is accessible only by boat. Each campsite has it’s own dock. That would be a lot of fun, I would think. There is more wildlife activity at the Bluestone Campsites because they are less densely populated. Bears, fox, and bobcats frequent the area as well as more common deer, raccoon, possum, skunks and squirrels. There are occasional sightings of otters and mink.

\n

Bluestone State Park has a large number of cabins spread around on a wooded hilltop. One of the cabins sits beside a very old cemetery that has been there long before the park came to be. I couldn’t find anyone who knew the history of the grave sites so I will have to do some research on my own.

\n

Again, there are so many amazing photos from this weekend but I am limited to what I can send over two bars of cell service. I’m planning on creating a video of this month’s circuit of the stunning State Parks of West Virginia. I’m afraid you’ll have to wait for that or see the photos as I have the opportunity to upload them. 

\n

Today I head to the last park on my WV Fall Foliage Tour…Chasing the Sun. I’m supposed to camp there till Friday, but I’ve decided to cut it short just a little so I can go home for a few days before I head south. Well, actually…before WE head south. I’ve talked Mr. FixIt into doing the southern circuit with me!!! Bless his heart…he has been awfully patient having his wife galavanting around the countryside. I need to get back and help him with a few chores and get a few things done to be better prepared for more camping.

\n

❤️

\n
“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”\n

1 Corinthians 7:3 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-28T01:30:32-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/28/rounding-out-october.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Love","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Marriage","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/27/between-the-trees.html", "title": "Between the Trees", "content_html": "

\"Autumn “Sitting by the river is soothing to the soul.”

\n

Being a writer is a wonderful thing. I can get lost in a blank page, creating worlds from my thoughts. It’s like magic…making something from nothing. I pray over my keyboard. I ask God to bring me words to say and people who need them. I am humbled when someone reaches out and tells me how my words have encouraged them or helped to ease the pain of their particular loss. I am quick to tell them…it is not me. I am merely the transcriptionist.

\n

When I pray the Prayer of Jabez, I ask for God to give me those Blessings with my name on them. I ask Him to expand my territory and to walk with His hand over me to keep evil far from me so that I may not feel/cause pain. I love when He brings people to me. It happens daily and I am so blessed by His generosity.

\n

As I sat yesterday in the r-pod, working on a writing project, I noticed the camper next door had turned their outdoor speakers up and were playing loud music. Not over-the-top loud…just annoying because it was disturbing my flow. I stopped and looked at the clock. Just after noon. I had been working straight through since breakfast. I sighed and closed my iPad.

\n

Should I go say something to the people? Should I give them a stern look as I pass by? Should I report them to the park office? I sat and prayed for discernment and wisdom. As I washed up the breakfast dishes, I looked out and there were two children…maybe ‘tweens…carving pumpkins! They didn’t have their noses glued to an electronic device. They were camping with their family and doing fun, creative things in the outdoors.

\n

I smiled as I dried my hands. Just WHO is the one with her nose glued to an electronic device? Oh, yes…that would be ME! I laughed as I looked up and said, “Ok, ok…I get the hint!” After taking a look around the camper to make sure things were unplugged and safe to leave, I donned my jacket and headed to the Fall Harvest Festival. 

\n

I watched a chainsaw artist carve a bear out of a log. I sat and listened to some live Bluegrass music. I went to the river and sat in a chair and read for an hour. I put my book away and just breathed in the smells of the day. The aroma of good food from the lodge kitchen. The smell of wet leaves and swift river water. The earthy smell of wool as the sun warmed my sweater. I closed my eyes and listened to children throwing rocks in the river and an elderly couple chatting softly as they walked slowly by…their feet shuffling through the leaves.

\n

I thanked God for reminding me to remove the plank in my own eye before I asked my neighbor to remove the sliver from theirs. 

\n

It was a really good day.

\n

❤️

\n
“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”\n

Matthew 7:5 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-27T01:30:43-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/27/between-the-trees.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Prayer","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Growth","Gratitude","Grace","God","Peace","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/26/time-travel.html", "title": "Time Travel", "content_html": "

\"Coffee “Coffee and sunshine and a little nosh!”

\n

As I explored the latest West Virginia State Park on my camping itinerary yesterday, I took a king sized jump back in time. The last time I was at this particular park was with Hubby #2. I can’t tell you the year, but my guess is it was the summer of 1979, although it could have been later. I remember bits and pieces of that trip. I remember feeling so extravagant to travel to such beautiful places. We stayed a night in this lodge I am sitting in as I write this post. Oh, my…so much water over the dam since then.

\n

I sat there in the morning sunshine, watching the river making riffles on the smooth stones below. The trees are yellow and brown and still-green here. Tiny little splashes of red and orange peek through as you move your eyes across the steep hillside at the far edge of the river. By 1:00 in the afternoon, the brilliant sun of morning gave way to the clouds portending the heavy storms predicted this weekend.

\n

I haven’t met a West Virginia State Park I haven’t liked. This trip has seriously been magical and something my heart and soul so desperately needed, if for no other reason that to remind me how dearly I love Mr. FixIt. Not that there has ever been a question. We all have a tendency to get wrapped up in the busyness of life and forget to stop and appreciate what we have. I’m just as guilty of that as anyone.

\n

Getting away also reminds me of the independence I cultivated for my self after Mr. Virgo died. I either got out and had adventures, or I would spend the rest of my life sitting at home alone. And that is just not me. I need solitude from time to time…to refresh and recharge and stretch my abilities. When I do that, I am a much better partner for my husband. I am more patient, more loving, and decidedly happier. This is a benefit for both of us.

\n

I’ve been gone for quite a bit this year. Between Girl Camping trips, six weeks in Colorado for my daughter’s wedding, and this Charity Trailer Raffle Tour, I think I have spent more time away from home than I was there. I have a patient husband, to be sure. But we are missing each other a lot so we are working on our itinerary for the next two months and figuring out the best way to travel AND be together.

\n

It is supposed to rain a lot this weekend so I’ve saved my writing and indoor projects till then. I need to take advantage of the sunshine when I can. When I woke up yesterday morning, it was 37 degrees. By the time I rousted myself to get coffee, it was 8:00 and 42 degrees. I took the electric griddle outside and cooked with it sitting on the picnic table. I fried a whole package of bacon and carefully placed the cooked strip between layers of paper towels and slipped the entire batch into a zip lock bag. Stored in the refrigerator, these will be eaten up long before they would spoil. I did the same with a batch of pancakes and stored them two to a sandwich bag. That way, I’ve cooked several days of breakfasts ahead of time. When it’s raining this weekend, I can still have outdoor cooked meals.

\n

As I finished writing this piece, I watched a little boy, maybe four or five years old…walking along the river. Bright yellow leaves rained down around him. With hands reached out, he laughed as he tried to catch them…his feet crunching on those he missed. He picked up rocks on the river bank and watched out for his little brother toddling along behind him. They were out with their dad. I love seeing dads with their littles…teaching, loving, experiencing the joy of the day. I close with this thought. Wouldn’t it be a better world if the littles spent more time outside with their dads? Or moms, if dad isn’t around? Or with anyone who loves them and wants to teach them about the world and about life? Wouldn’t it be better than handing a child an electronic device to keep them quiet…engaged in learning what someone else is teaching them? Maybe something that isn’t reflective of your values? I’m not being judgmental here. There were plenty of times I let my own little watch too much TV in order to have some peace. It just seems we are raising a generation that’s greatest skill is dissociation. I’m not sure how you put the smoke back in the bottle.

\n

With that thought, I have spent entirely too much of my morning sitting here with my own set of electronic diversions so I’m heading out to enjoy this day before the rains come and I get stuck inside. I hope you have a beautiful weekend wherever you are. Put the phone down…go outside and play. You’re never too old to “go places and do things”, as the Girl Campers say!

\n

❤️

\n
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”\n

Proverbs 22:6 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-26T01:30:14-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/26/time-travel.html", "tags": ["Faith","Family","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Peace","Wisdom","Aging","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip","Littles","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/25/overcoming-challenges.html", "title": "Overcoming Challenges", "content_html": "

\"Camping\" “Kicking back in my Vasques at the campsite at the end of the day makes all the challenges melt away!”

\n

Yesterday saw its fair share of challenges. First, I was wide awake at 5:30am. I drove over Droop Mountain on Wednesday and frankly…I was a little concerned about pulling the camper over it. At 3060 feet elevation with a 9% grade, it is a considerable piece of real estate to cross over, especially hauling a camper. 

\n

The first thing I did Wednesday evening was take a long, hot shower to empty water out of the fresh tank into the grey tank. I knew I needed to offload as much weight as I could before I took on the mountains and curvy West Virginia roads the next morning. When I awoke at 5:30, I pulled out my atlas and went over my route for the umpteenth time. One side of my brain said, “Nope…not gonna.” But the adventurous side…the side that knows I can do all things with Jesus said, “Yep…we’re gonna do this!”

\n

I hooked up the camper and pulled it over to the campground dump station. It was 8:00 in the morning and 37 degrees…a tad chilly. I got everything emptied and cleaned and put away, then headed out. My first obstacle was coming up the hill from Watoga State Park Campground into Seebert. There is a sign that tells you there is a sharp drop off on the right. In other words, the “shoulder” of the road is about…I don’t know…a hundred feet down, maybe? It was really no big deal…you just hug the center line and pray no one else is coming. And when they are, you stop. It doesn’t matter who might be behind you…they can just wait.

\n

I was really pleased at how smoothly the Droop Mountain crossing went. My transmission temp stayed in a reasonable temperature range. There was a good deal of fog at the base, but I soon broke through to perfect sunshine and crisp air. The leaves that high are a bit past their prime, but still beautiful.

\n

My biggest challenge came when I got to the campground. I asked the fellow in the check-in office if the sites are level and he said, “Ma’am, I have to be perfectly honest. They really aren’t it’s a challenge to get things level.” I didn’t want to hear this because, of all the things I left at home, it was my assortment of levelers. Keith followed me out to my site and we stood there looking at it. 

\n

“Wow…that has quite a grade, doesn’t it?” I said.

\n

He allowed that it did. He brought me some scraps of wood he had salvaged from campers leaving them behind. I pulled further forward where the grade wasn’t quite as steep, and unhooked. I walked all around and finally realized, I did not have enough blocks with me to make up the difference because my stabilizing jacks wouldn’t reach the ground. 

\n

I drove back over and was about to buy a couple packages of levelers when Keith said he would look to see if there was another site. He had offered two others earlier but I just didn’t like them. They were small, crowded, and right on the road. Finally he came up with an available site and I drove around to look at it. It would be a little tricky backing into it, but it was long and level and faced way back in the woods. It was perfect. 

\n

I hooked back up and towed to the second site and got settled in. It made for a long day, but the results made me much more comfortable than the first site. Sometimes you have to listen to your gut. The only place for that trailer to go if the chocks gave way was down the side of the mountain. It is a perfectly good site for a motor home or something small like a popup tent camper…it just didn’t work for me.

\n

Keith apologized for wasting three hours of my day. I explained that I am a writer and an educator. I’m an experienced camper. But there are lots of people out there who haven’t had any experience and want to learn. These kinds of experiences offer me opportunities to teach others and hopefully avoid unfortunate pitfalls. Those kinds of things can really dampen one’s joy toward a new activity, and I want you to have as much success as possible when you “Go Places and Do Things”!

\n

❤️

\n
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”\n

1 Peter 5:7 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-25T01:30:39-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/25/overcoming-challenges.html", "tags": ["Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Camping","West Virginia","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/23/coffee-with-wanda-belle.html", "title": "Coffee with Wanda Belle", "content_html": "

\"Autumn “The many colors of Autumn”

\n

I was pouring my coffee yesterday and my mom popped in my head. She often does, but yesterday she “came” to have coffee with me. Mom loved her coffee…hot and black. She had a Pyrex coffee pot and I was enamored with the way you could watch the coffee brewing…bubbling up through the center tube into the glass handle of the lid then seeping down through the grounds. There was never a time when there wasn’t coffee on the stove.

\n

Until she got older. Then it was “too much work” or “the pot is just too heavy to lift”. Then she turned to Sanka. Ok, there might be some of you who like Sanka. If you do, I mean no offense…I don’t mean to “yuck your yum”. But…ugh! Any instant coffee is a poor substitute for the real thing, in my humble opinion. I felt she had just…settled.

\n

As I poured my coffee and thought of Mom, I could almost hear her say, “Why are you bothering with this whole rigamarole? You get out the grinder and the beans. You measure and grind till it’s just so. You measure again and pour the bottled water in the coffee maker. You plug it in and wait. What an ordeal. Just get yourself a jar of Sanka!”

\n

I smiled.

\n

“Yeah…no, Mom. It my routine. It’s my pleasure. When I have that first sip of hot, strong coffee (with cream and stevia, please) I’m in heaven!” Is it more work? Not that much. When I first started this trip, I bought a “pour over” thingy. I used it for the first week or two and stopped at the first Walmart I came across to buy a 4-cup Mr. Coffee. That’s the perfect size to fill my Tervis coffee cup twice. And the second cup is hot in the electric coffee maker.

\n

Someone gave me a hand grinder and a French press many years ago. I used it when I was on The Grand Adventure in Colorado those three months after Mr. Virgo died. Many times I didn’t have electricity but I wasn’t about to turn to instant. Making coffee off the grid was a lot more work than this…but oh, it was the best coffee ever! I thought about bringing that setup with me on this trip but I knew, even without electricity, I can use the little Mr. Coffee because of the solar panels on the roof of the r-pod. Isn’t that a trip? I haven’t tried it yet…but I will before this ride is over.

\n

I’m camping in the woods again this time. I love waking to see the trees all around, to hear the wind rustle through the leaves, to step out of the camper into the glorious light of autumn shining with that rare amber light of fall. I believe I’ll take my coffee down to the river and set a spell before I start my project of the day. I hope you get outside and enjoy some of this before winter sets in.

\n

❤️

\n
“You make darkness, and it is night, when all the beasts of the forest creep about. The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God. When the sun rises, they steal away and lie down in their dens. Man goes out to his work and to his labor until the evening.”\n

Psalms 104:20-23 ESV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-23T01:30:12-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/23/coffee-with-wanda-belle.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Camping","West Virginia","Peace","Aging","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/22/a-perfectly-beautiful-day.html", "title": "A Perfectly Beautiful Day", "content_html": "

\"Cheers\" “Dining al fresco in the glory of autumn.”

\n

Now that I have left the last campground, I can tell you about it. Some of my friends who have camped there guessed where I was. Revelle’s Family Campground is just up the road from Elkins, WV in a little burg called Bowden. There’s a fish hatchery there…and lots of cabins and campgrounds. I’ve driven past Revelle’s since I was a teenager. They actually opened when I was sixteen and the just celebrated their 50th Anniversary.

\n

The current owners purchased it in 2015. It was a little rundown and they have put a lot into it, bringing some of it’s glorious past back to life. They have lots of fun activities like WVU Football Tailgate Parties and bingo every other weekend. There are over 200 campsites with several backed right up to Shaver’s Fork of the Cheat River…a stocked trout stream. About half the sites are permanent campers…meaning, they lease out the spot to one person on a yearly basis. Those campers treat their travel trailers like a mountain cabin and often only come for weekends. There are some who come to spend the summer.

\n

I was really taken by the lovely surroundings and the equally lovely owner, Katharine. I can already envision organizing a Girl Camper trip next October to show off the amazing colors this time of year.

\n

Yesterday was my travel day to the next campground. My route took me on a two-lane blacktop that climbed over mountains, twisting and turning through forests of hardwoods, evergreens, and the ever present mountain laurel. It was sunny and absolutely gorgeous as I climbed through the Allegheny Mountains and the colors were spectacular. Every turn was more beautiful than the last. However, there were NO turnoffs or scenic overlooks and I couldn’t very well stop in the middle of the road to take pictures so I will have to search the internet for the photos taken by others of this area to give you some idea. I’m telling you…words cannot do this day justice.

\n

Along the way, I saw a sign for an old general store which is really more of a museum these days. I was fortunate to find a parking place out front and welcomed the opportunity to get out and stretch my legs. The owner was graciously greeting the crowds of people as they made their way to the portico out front. When he greeted me, he asked where I was from. When I told him Parkersburg, he lit up. He was born and raised just a couple of miles from me and graduated the year after Mr. FixIt and me and knew my sweet hubby back in the day!

\n

Tom Shipley’s mother left this farm to him, thus ensuring the little store and grounds would stay open and in the family. Tom says it’s a lot of work, but he’s been there since 2004 and is a fixture in the community. There is a small log cabin located on the grounds not far from the huge main house. It turned out to have been built by Tom’s great-great-great grandparents. What a treat that must be to have that family legacy remain in the same hands throughout the generations. I would have loved to have stayed longer, but I needed to move on. But, not without purchasing some jars of homemade apple butter, red raspberry jam, and cherry jam first. Tom carried my purchases out to the truck for me and gave me a big hug…”for Parkersburg,” he said.

\n

Unfortunately, as I crested the last mountain, the clouds gathered and that was the end of the glorious sunshine. Still, it was quite beautiful as I closed in on my final destination. I got unhooked and set up and within minutes, I had people wanting to come see the camper and buy tickets for the raffle. The only way to purchase tickets is to buy them online at girlcamper.com . I can’t tell you how many people reach for their wallets when they find out we are raffling off this trailer!

\n

There is WiFi at this campground, but no cellular because of the blackout area of Greenbank Observatory. I’ll write about that another day. The WiFi is pretty slow and has to be shared by all the campers, so I don’t know if photos will come through to post or not…we’ll see. In the meantime, it was supposed to rain all last night and all day today. I have an indoor project to do today, so that will be perfect timing.

\n

❤️

\n
“Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.”\n1 Chronicles 16:33 ESV
\n", "date_published": "2019-10-22T01:30:02-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/22/a-perfectly-beautiful-day.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/21/take-a-little-time.html", "title": "Take a Little Time", "content_html": "

\"Crimson “The color crimson is startling in the woods of WV.”

\n

I tell people all the time…”Self care is NOT selfish!” This weekend I took a little time for some self care and it felt wonderful. First was the old time music and folk dancing Saturday. Then yesterday, I took off early and drove over to see family in Grant and Pendleton Counties. The aunt that I cared for when I first moved back here from Colorado has been living with her brother, my Uncle Bud, for the last three years. She is suffering from dementia now and I am not at all sure she knew who I was. Which is probably a good thing because she doesn’t necessarily like me much. She was quite personable during our visit, which was nice.

\n

I helped around the house…cleaning the kitchen and picking up. I took a chuck roast over and put it in the crock pot for them along with noodles and a pumpkin pie. They should eat like royalty for a few days on that. I shared pictures with them and we swapped stories for a while before I left to go to my cousin’s house for a while. I haven’t seen her since Thanksgiving last year so it was a long overdue visit.

\n

As I was driving back to the campground late in the afternoon, I got to the top of Middle Mountain and saw this amazing tree. Actually, I saw amazing trees everywhere. But it was raining all day and very foggy on top of the mountain. I pulled over to the side and stood with my camera ready…just willing the fog to part long enough to capture the beauty of this lone tree on the mountaintop. It was well worth the wait, don’t you think?

\n

The mountain sides look like a rich tapestry with everything from green to garnet, scarlet to sunshine yellow. It was mesmerizing and it was all I could do to keep my eyes on the road. Stunning! It’s this time of year that makes you hold your breath. In the spring, when the green leaves pop out, you know there is a long stretch ahead with lovely foliage. Then this time of year comes and we sit and wait for the proverbial “other shoe” to drop. Because, in a heartbeat it will be gone and the trees will reach for the sky with naked bony fingers grasping at the winter winds that whip through them.

\n

So, till that time comes, I will gaze in wonder and will share that with you as I travel this path to see where it leads me. Today is a travel day for me. My next stop is the first campsite I have had without electricity so I’m going to rely on the solar to power me off grid. I can’t wait to see what I can still do in the camper without shore power!

\n

❤️

\n
“\"Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten by the sword; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.\"”\n

Isaiah 1:18-20 ESV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-21T01:31:56-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/21/take-a-little-time.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Change","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/20/waiting-for-home.html", "title": "Waiting for Home", "content_html": "

\"Beautiful “The house I wanted for a B&B in Elkins…it always makes me wonder…what if?”

\n

I’m not kidding when I say I spent just about every moment of the forty years I lived in Colorado waiting for the day I could move back home. Oh, there was a stretch of time when I was young and cocky and I thought I knew better than those “old fogeys” back home who were SO out of touch. Little did I know I would give my right arm to return to my roots one day.

\n

I had the opportunity to come home when Hubby #1 and I split up, but I turned it down. My daughter was about three years old at the time, and I wanted her to have broader horizons than I had growing up so I elected to stay in Denver where I had no family support and a relatively small social circle. 

\n

When I was married to Hubby #2, there was some talk about going back home, but he is a Colorado boy, born and bred. You just don’t take them out of that climate and plop them down in humidity. I remember dreaming at night that if anything happened to him, I’d hightail it home as fast as I could.

\n

Then, Mr. Virgo came along. He was my best bet to get back because he was born and raised in South Philly. But he had tried his whole life to get back to Colorado, which he adored, so I knew there was a very slim chance we’d actually move back to West Virginia. However, I did get him to discuss the possibilities of owning a B&B somewhere back here. 

\n

I’ll never forget those days when we would do internet searches for B&B’s for sale. We found a big house in the historic district of Parkersburg that was a real possibility. But the one I had my heart set on was actually here in Elkins, WV. It was right across the road from the back side of the Davis & Elkins campus. It had seven bedrooms and five full baths with a large commercial kitchen. I was in love!

\n

Mr. Virgo? Not so much. This is where the wheat was separated from the chaff and I realized it was never gonna happen. He had put his roots down in Colorado and there would be no budging that man. Now, every time I am near here, I have to drive past “my B&B”. I have no idea who bought it. It doesn’t look as though it has been turned back into the B&B it was many years ago. When I see it, I am reminded that we don’t work on our time. We work on God’s time. And it wasn’t time for me to be here back then.

\n

I do have an affinity for this little town though. Mostly because of the college and the Augusta Heritage Center which works to preserve the old timey ways of our ancestors. I was thrilled to spend the afternoon with “my people”…folks who obviously love their heritage as much as I do. I’ve seen some beautiful places on this trip already. But I think this stop has been my favorite so far. I just wish Mr. FixIt could have been with me. He would have enjoyed this so much.

\n

❤️

\n
“And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not.”\n

Deuteronomy 8:2 ESV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-20T01:30:07-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/20/waiting-for-home.html", "tags": ["Family","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Love","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Widow","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/19/allegheny-autumn-splendor.html", "title": "Allegheny Autumn Splendor!", "content_html": "

\"Autumn “Oh….be still my heart! Autumn’s splendor in the highlands of West Virginia!”

\n

I slept so soundly Thursday night. Maybe it’s sleeping by moving water that makes me drift off quickly and sleep all night…a welcome treat. It was pretty darned nippy yesterday morning and it will be even colder tonight. I got chilled when I first arrived at the campground. I went through a couple of mud puddles and the camper had been splashed from the tires. I got a pail of warm water and washed it down, but I was chilled to the bone. It was’t long after dark that I got in my warm, flannel jammies and hopped in bed under the electric blanket. I still didn’t warm up till after 10:00.

\n

I awoke to the sun coming over the far ridge…lighting the leaves along the river with a beacon of gold that reflected on the window shades of the camper. I slipped the shades up and stayed snuggled under my warm blankets for another hour before I ventured out to begin my day. After a cup of fresh brewed coffee, I took a hot shower in the camper. It’s awfully nice to not have to traipse across a cold campground to use their bathroom facilities in the middle of the night or the chill of the morning.

\n

When you camp and live in a small space, it’s important to stay on top of the cleaning and organizing daily or you end up just throwing things everywhere. I can’t stand living in a cluttered environment, especially in close quarters. In touring with the r-pod, there is always someone who wants to have a peek inside and it’s just easier to spend a little extra time every morning making sure everything is presentable.

\n

I drove to town and had lunch at CJ Maggie’s in Elkins then drove over to the Davis and Elkins College. What a gorgeous campus. D&E is a small liberal arts college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. With an enrollment of only 805 students, it offers a 13:1 Student/Faculty ratio and both national and international accreditations. D&E is also the home of the Augusta Heritage Center, keeping Appalachian music and skills alive for future generations. There are opportunities to hear Old Time music, both at the summer series and Old Time Week in October. I am especially interested in the Fiddlers Reunion today, as well at the Flat Foot Dance  competition. It speaks to my roots and I’m really looking forward to going.

\n

After my tour of the college campus, I drove up into the Stuart Recreation Area, a densely forested federal park along the banks of the Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. The trees are at their peak of glory here in the Allegheny Mountain Range, part of the Appalachian Mountains. This morning’s low was predicted to hit 30 degrees, bringing us the first frost of the season. If I stay around West Virginia too much longer, I’d have to winterize the camper to keep the water lines from freezing. But a couple of hours of freezing temperatures aren’t enough to cause damage. The weather is predicted to get warmer after this weekend freeze.

\n

I’m having a lot of fun on this trip and it reminds me of those early months and years after losing Mr. Virgo. I traveled for much of the first three years after he died. The big difference between then and now, of course, is the degree of grief healing that has taken place. As I became a different woman in the aftermath of Mr. Virgo’s death, so too have I become a different person on the other side of deep grief. I think we all change and remake ourselves multiple times in our lives. Our “being” is not static…it is ever-evolving. 

\n

As my dear friend Sue told me the other night…”We love this new you.” So do I, my friend. So do I.

\n

❤️

\n
“that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ,”\n

Colossians 2:2 ESV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-19T01:30:32-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/19/allegheny-autumn-splendor.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/17/what-a-difference-a-day.html", "title": "What a Difference a Day Makes!", "content_html": "

\"Fall “One day sunny and warm, the next day blustery and cold. Still…a day camping is better than anything else!”

\n

When I arrived at Stonewall Jackson Resort Campground on Wednesday, it was a lovely, warm day. This campground is decidedly different from Cedar Creek. Where Cedar Creek was more rustic and filled with nature, trees, deer, squirrels, and all manner of birds, Stonewall Jackson is quite “resorty”. There were a lot of really big rigs…the huge, expensive Class A motorhomes that are just passing through. There are a lot of resort amenities here, too. A golf course, a huge lodge, a grand lake with a big boat that tours around in the evenings…weather permitting. It just has an altogether different feel and I honestly think I prefer the far end of a campground that might be visited by bears over this…even though it really is quite nice.

\n

The sun was shining when I arrived and I spent the afternoon reorganizing the pantry in the kitchen. I wasn’t sure what all I would need on this trip so. I brought way too much “stuff”. So far, I’ve sent Mr. FixIt home with extra stuff every time he comes to camp with me. This time, I knew I had too much in the big pantry because I just kept pushing things to the back and only using what was in the front. I have an empty tub in the bed of the truck that I throw the things I am not particularly using so a big bag of heavier stuff went out there. The rest got more evenly distributed throughout the camper so the shelves weren’t overloaded.

\n

Once the organizing was completed, dinner was done, and the dishes washed and put away, I went for a walk around the campground before turning in for the night. I know we are almost at the end of Daylight Savings Time and it’s already getting dark way too early. Once the time change hits us, it will be getting dark at 5:00pm…making for some long nights to fill in the camper. Since I don’t watch TV as a rule, I’m working on writing, reading actual books (wow), and knitting. 

\n

I spent almost the entire day yesterday over at the park lodge. The WiFi at the campground slowed down markedly because it started raining at 5:00am and people were stuck inside their campers. I’m sure they were surfing the web and maybe live-streaming movies. The WiFi at the lodge was much faster and I settled in after breakfast and sipped coffee as I met some writing deadlines. Along about 11:00, the hostess of the restaurant gasped and pointed out the window. Leaves were swirling about and the rain was coming down in sheets. I jumped up and asked them to watch my stuff…I’d be right back.

\n

Leaving the camper in the campground unattended worried me and I wanted to drive back over to check on it. It was fine and I breathed a sigh of relief as I drove back over to the lodge to finish a piece I was working on. When you are put in charge of something that doesn’t belong to you, you don’t take chances with it. I don’t take this charge lightly.

\n

Today is a gypsy day and I am leaving this campground. I have tentative plans for another further east, but that leads me into the mountains and the low Friday night is near freezing. I need to get the propane refilled and decide if it’s worth staying in the mountains, or should I move a bit further south. Weather forecasts can change quickly this time of year, and there is something special I would like to do this weekend where I was originally planning to stay. Something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. So, we shall see where I land. Sometimes those are the best travel days…when you end up doing something entirely unpredicted.

\n

❤️

\n
“But God made the earth by his power; he founded the world by his wisdom and stretched out the heavens by his understanding. When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; he makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.”\n

Jeremiah 10:12-13 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-17T01:30:23-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/17/what-a-difference-a-day.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Comfort","Peace","Courage","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/16/eat-pray-camp.html", "title": "Eat, Pray, Camp!", "content_html": "

\"R-pod “The r-pod 196 nestled in the trees at Cedar Creek State Park near Glenville, WV”

\n

I moved to the next campground easily enough yesterday morning. Mr. FixIt met me at the McDonald’s in Glenville for breakfast so I could get my travel coordinates before we parted company for another couple of weeks. We had the BEST weekend! It was our first wedding anniversary, which I had told you about. When he arrived at the campground Saturday night, he greeted me with a dozen roses and a sweet card. I greeted him with a warm supper and a big hug. We hiked, biked, and chatted with folks he knew in the campground. (Have I told you he knows EVERYONE?!) We rested and watched movies and took naps. And we just flat out enjoyed not having cell service or TV to distract us from enjoying each other’s company. It was wonderful!

\n

Speaking of no cell service, we had just finished eating lunch out in front of our camper on Monday when Mr. FixIt’s phone rang! We could barely hear a woman’s voice and she was saying something about coming to the office. We thought it must have something to do with his insurance policy because the call came from his agent’s office. That was really weird.

\n

After lunch, we decided to go for a bike ride around the state park. It’s such a great place to ride bikes because the campground is essentially flat. When we got back to the camper, Mr. FixIt reached to remove his wallet from his back pocket and…it was GONE! We looked in both trucks and all over the camper and campsite, but he figured he had to have lost it when he was riding his bike.

\n

I hadn’t realized till I got back to the camper that he wasn’t right behind me. I got off my bike and took off my helmet and gloves and here he came. It turned out he had gotten his shoe lace wrapped around the bike pedal and had to stop at the camp store to get untangled. He assumed that is where he lost the wallet. So, we got in the truck. I prayed out loud.

\n

“Jesus, please help us find my husband’s wallet!”

\n

We took off driving very slowly…looking for a brown wallet amongst the equally brown leaves all over the roadway. We hadn’t had any luck when we passed a couple out for a walk. 

\n

“You haven’t happened to find a wallet, have you?”

\n

“Nope…sorry. We haven’t seen a thing!”

\n

“Ok, we’ll keep looking. Thanks!”

\n

While we were talking to the couple who were walking, another couple rode past us on their bikes on the other side of the truck.

\n

Suddenly, we heard the walking couple.

\n

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!”

\n

I looked in the rear view mirror and they were waving us back and pointing at the couple on the bike. The bikers rode up to us.

\n

“You looking for a wallet? I just turned one in at the park headquarters building! They have it waiting for you!”

\n

I stuck my hand out the window and looked up and shouted, “Thank you, Jesus!!!”

\n

We drove on up to the building at the park entrance and sure enough, it was Mr. FixIt’s wallet…intact with his one lone dollar bill and his credit cards. As we were driving back to the camper, he looked at me and said, “Man, that was really lucky!”

\n

I looked at him with a level stare and said, “No, honey…luck had nothing to do with that. What did I do as soon as we got in the truck? I prayed that Jesus would help us find your wallet, didn’t I?” He nodded in agreement. “Then, we asked the walkers if they found a wallet and they didn’t. But they asked the bikers, and THEY did…and had turned it in. All in the space of about ten minutes after I prayed! That was a prayer answered, sweetheart…plain and simple.”

\n

He had to agree. Especially when we were sitting at breakfast yesterday and he checked his phone.

\n

“Huh…I have a missed call.” It was from the same number that got through in an area with no phone service. They had called back and left us this message.

\n

“Hi there…this is __________ from you insurance agent’s office. We received a call from the folks at Cedar Creek State Park saying someone found your wallet. You need to check in with the headquarters office to get it back.”

\n

I looked at Mr. FixIt and smiled. “See? You can add getting a phone call in an area with no cell service about your lost wallet to the list of steps God took to return it to you!”

\n

I’m gobsmacked when God does these things…especially when it shows another person that He’s really REAL and cares about ALL the things, not just the big stuff. Even a wallet that falls out in the leaves.

\n

❤️

\n
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”\n

John 15:7 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-16T01:30:46-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/16/eat-pray-camp.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Grace","God","Wisdom","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/12/go-with-the-flow.html", "title": "Go With The Flow", "content_html": "

\"WV “Early morning fog on the lake. Almost Heaven…West Virginia”

\n

So, I know I told you I wouldn’t be running to town every whipstitch, however…I really do need to write some things for a deadline I’m facing…AND, I needed to get some reservations for this trip. I ended up heading into town to use the WiFi at McDonald’s. I wasn’t finished when I saw my battery was almost gone on my iPad so I packed it up and headed back to the campsite and plugged in. 

\n

It was early enough in the day that the fog hadn’t burned off the lake yet and I stopped in the road to take a photo. There was another, even more spectacular view on down a ways, however, there was someone coming up behind me so I had to move on. Sometimes the most beautiful, unforgettable photos get left to memory and never see the light of day. Those are really special.

\n

The campground is filling up and I just realized this is Columbus Day weekend. I imagine there will be crowds of people there by later today. Some campgrounds close by the end of October around here. I managed to get West Virginia camping all the way through to the first of November. Then I am going to either have to head south or winterize the camper. There will be some nights in the next week that will get down to the 30’s. It won’t be a problem unless it gets down and stays down, which it is not likely to do at this time of the year here.

\n

As I am writing this, I am listening to a group of college girls. They are FaceTiming with one of their moms and it is hysterical. They are talking about their hair and what to do with it for some special event. It reminds me so much of when my older daughter was that age. I was so young and I really loved the kids. As I was driving into town earlier, Daughter #2 called and we chatted for a while. It’s crazy how fast they’ve grown and how long ago those crazy fun times in McDonald’s really were.

\n

\"Sycamore “Sycamore Tussock Moth Caterpillar”

\n

The second picture is a Sycamore Tussock moth caterpillar. It was climbing up my tire at the campground…not surprising seeing how I’m camped in a grove of sycamore trees. I looked it up and they aren’t poisonous, but they can irritate your skin if you happen to be allergic to them. They said it is best to move them away with a stick or piece of paper, which is exactly what I did.

\n

I hope you have a wonderful Saturday and enjoy the autumn weather, wherever you are!

\n

❤️

\n
“Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.”\n

James 5:7 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-12T01:30:33-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/12/go-with-the-flow.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Peace","Presence","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/11/slow-down.html", "title": "Slow Down", "content_html": "

\"Country “There’s something special about moseying out country roads instead of roaring through on an interstate.”

\n

There is something special about driving on a two-lane blacktop in the fall. First, you’re forced to slow down…especially in West Virginia. There are a lot of 15 to 20 to 25mph turns in these parts. Beyond safety issues is the sheer beauty around every curve. 

\n

I love how the leaves fall in a shower of gold and red light in the sun. I love how the car in front of you stirs them up into a whirlwind that splashes on your windshield as you drive through them. I love how the the denuded trees cast lines on the roadway making it seem to glitter and shimmer as the miles fly under your wheels.

\n

The morning dew glistens as the leaves flutter in the breeze of your passing. The whole world takes on an auburn glow with rich yellow, tawny bronze, and deep indigo undertones. Crows and turkey buzzards circle overhead, waiting for the tasty morsels of the unfortunate squirrel or groundhog that doesn’t make it across the pavement in time. 

\n

Deer stand tenuously on the shoulder of the road seeming to be making a decision. Should I go? Should I stay? My mind wills them to turn and run up the hill away from my approaching bumper…left to live another day. Chipmunks seem to be enthralled with the macadam madness that cuts through their turf. Scoot out fast. No…wait! Dart back quick! How I keep from hitting them, I’ll never know.

\n

I arrived at my next campground shortly before noon. I stopped at the store on the way so I could buy chili fixin’s. Mr. FixIt was talking about chili the other night and it’s been on my mind ever since. I got unhooked and mixed up a batch for the crockpot. I made plenty to have leftovers for the freezer.

\n

This is one of the best things about traveling with a camper. With a well equipped kitchen and a stocked pantry, you can eat healthy and save a lot of money on the road. Avoid the fast food places and steer clear of processed foods and your food budget can go a long way. I have homemade chicken noodle soup, beef and noodles, pepperoni rolls, cinnamon rolls, taco meat, potato soup, pizza, old fashioned noodles, and now chili in the freezer. Potatoes, sausage, cheese, salad greens, broccoli, cauliflower, oranges, grapes, eggs, potato salad, sliced turkey, avocado, yoghurt, milk, and cottage cheese in the fridge. I have an assortment of dry goods in the pantry, including microwave popcorn if I want a snack. We’ll be eating like royalty this weekend when Mr. FixIt arrives.

\n

There’s and upside and a downside to this campground. Gorgeous woods. No internet at the campsite. I’ll have to drive to town to post this. If I didn’t have writing deadlines, I’d just cut the cord for the duration, but alas…my “work” is never done! There are worse things than writing every day!

\n

❤️

\n
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge.”\n

Psalms 19:1-2 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-11T01:30:15-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/11/slow-down.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","Peace","Courage","Presence","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/10/what-would-grandma-say.html", "title": "What Would Grandma Say?", "content_html": "

\"RP196\" “Autumn Glow Lights up the R-Pod”

\n

I camped the last two nights at a park hardly anyone knows about and I’d almost like to keep it that way. Except…it’s so uber cool, I just have to share. I’ve written about Calhoun County Park before. Mr. FixIt and I took a drive out here once and took pictures of the Heritage Village…a collection of buildings that were transported here and restored. There’s an old general store, a school house, a church, and a post office among others. The post office was from Freed…not too far from Grandma’s farm. Grandma introduced me to some of the Freed family.

\n

When we came out to the park that time, we saw a little campground and I was intrigued. As it turns out, Calhoun County Park is a designated “dark sky site”…meaning there is minimal light pollution and it’s easy to see the stars. The last couple of nights were peak meteor events. The first night was blanketed in dense cloud cover but last night was clear as a bell. Still, at the time I am writing this, I haven’t seen any.

\n

When I got up yesterday morning and went outside, there was something about the light and sounds and smells that took me straight back to my childhood. Grandma’s farm is probably 15 miles or so from here as the crow flies so I’m practically camping in the backyard. It got me to thinking about her and what she might think of this little adventure I’m on. 

\n

My grandma always loved me, but she…like several of my family members…thought maybe I was a full bubble off the level. I have always marched to my own drum and never really did things in a traditional way. Here I am, out on 258 acres and not a soul in sight. Oh, there were some folks up at the community building the last couple of nights. And yesterday a state patrolman came through the park on his rounds. But that’s the extent of it. Grandma would think I was off my rocker!

\n

Was I scared? Not really. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have a care in the world, but fear didn’t really enter into the picture. I have protection. I have street smarts. I know the fire department is only a couple of miles away and I passed a policeman’s house not a mile from the park. Mr. FixIt is 20 minutes away at the Ponderosa. I have great cell service. I’m good. 

\n

I decided yesterday was a good day to figure out how to use the convection function on the convection microwave. On the R-Pod Owners V2 Facebook page, they talk about the “Cinnamon Roll Challenge” so I decided to bake some. Granted, they were from a can, but baking is baking, right?

\n

It took me a little bit to figure out how to work the stove. I read the directions but it wasn’t until I watched a YouTube video that I totally figured it out. I baked the rolls…5 in the can…and iced them. I ate one and packaged the others for the freezer because Mr. FixIt is going to join me this weekend for another weekend of camping. AND…our first wedding anniversary is Sunday, so what better way to celebrate than getting lost in the woods with my sweetie?!

\n

The autumn colors have really shown up the last couple of days and I’m in the most beautiful state to enjoy it. Almost Heaven…West Virginia! Today, I head to another State Park to enjoy more scenery and color!

\n

❤️

\n
“Let the trees of the forest sing, let them sing for joy before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.”\n

1 Chronicles 16:33 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-10T01:30:37-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/10/what-would-grandma-say.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Growth","Gratitude","goRVing","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/09/check-engine-light.html", "title": "Check Engine Light", "content_html": "

\"Check “How many times have you seen this come on…right in front of the dealership?!?!”

\n

I was heading through Marietta, Ohio yesterday afternoon on my way from one campground to the next. My preferred Ford dealer is there and as I was driving by, I got “the nudge”. The thought went through my mind…“Check your engine light!” Literally…I was right in front of the dealership when I looked down and…

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It was ON!!!

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I kid you not! I got goose bumps. Ok…I drove down a block, turned around, and came back. I pulled up as close to the service entrance as I could while pulling a camper behind me. Luke, the Service Supervisor, came out and checked the truck with the computer. One of the oxygen sensors was bad. They checked and had one in stock and they had a free technician. I unhooked the camper, pulled the truck in, and went out to the camper to stretch out and read. An hour later, they called and the truck was ready.

\n

You cannot tell me prayer doesn’t work. You cannot tell me the Holy Spirit doesn’t guide us. How many of you sent up prayers and good thoughts for travel mercies for me yesterday? Well, they worked…and I thank you for those prayers!

\n

But most of all, I thank God for always watching out for me. I love it when He comes through with a megaphone because there was absolutely nothing subtle about that call. Wowza!

\n

I got to the next campground just before dusk. I never reveal where I am in real time when I’m traveling alone so I’ll have to let you know the day after I leave. But, talk about peace and quiet…it’s crazy quiet here. I was hoping to see the night sky, but the clouds stole in just as I was unhooking. Maybe tonight. In the meantime…great cell service and a deadline to meet. What a great place to write!

\n

❤️

\n
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”\n

Psalms 8:3-4 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-09T01:30:08-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/09/check-engine-light.html", "tags": ["Faith","Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Prayer","Camping","West Virginia","Gratitude","Grace","God","Peace","Wisdom","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/08/autumn-sweet-autumn.html", "title": "Autumn, Sweet Autumn!", "content_html": "

\"Autumn “It looks like we will finally get a little color after all!”

\n

I stayed an extra night at Beaver Creek State Park so I’d have an uninterrupted stretch of writing time. The other Girl Campers left Sunday, but my friend Gail is the Camp Host for Beaver Creek so she stayed to keep me company. In the past I have dreaded autumn because winter comes right after. But autumn…sweet autumn. The time of harvests and gold, apples and honey. Crispy, crunchy autumn…I’ve come to love it!

\n

It rained all night Sunday and the majority of the day yesterday. It stayed cloudy and cool which made snuggling up in the camper with my iPad and writing a rare treat. I took a break in the afternoon and went over to visit my friend Jan and see her farm…Paradise Acres. She is my age and runs a 200+ acre farm, plays in an Old Time band, sits on boards, campaigns for political candidates, and takes college classes. She is a retired Presbyterian minister. She has more energy in her little finger than I could ever hope to have!

\n

\"Woman “My friend Jan gazes out over her fields of corn at Paradise Acres.”

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When I got back to the campground, Gail was there to greet me with a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup and hot rolls. What a wonderful way to spend my last night camping in one of my favorite places in the world. I am heading out and about today. It’s going to be a gypsy camp day…meaning, I have no idea where I will sleep tonight. I want to see the meteor shower for the next two nights, skies willing, so I need to be somewhere away from city lights. I’ll let you know where I end up!

\n

In the meantime, we’ve had a good deal of rain. I think perhaps enough to pull us out of imminent fire danger in West Virginia. Mr. FixIt said there were places near the Ponderosa that received as much as three inches of rain in a very short amount of time. We have been parched here. The reason the fire danger was so high this fall was the overgrowth of vegetation from the unusually wet spring and summer we had. The vegetation is thick. Add dry weather and heat and it created dangerous conditions. I think we are past the worst of that now.

\n

\"Old “Jan’s barn at Paradise Acres. She holds Old Time Music concerts here.”

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As I was driving back from Jan’s farm this afternoon, I could really see the change in color in the leaves. Lots of yellows and some reds now. I’m looking forward to my drive today and checking out the autumn leaves. I can’t believe how early it’s getting dark already. The r-pod is comfortable and it stays nice and toasty in here. I think this new Adzel material they built the walls with is a better insulator.

\n

❤️

\n
““As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.””\n

Genesis 8:22 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-08T01:30:03-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/08/autumn-sweet-autumn.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","Gratitude","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Change","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/06/cooking-in-the-rpod.html", "title": "Cooking in the RPod!", "content_html": "

\"Cooking “Even with a compact, kitchen, cooking in the RPod is really easy.”

\n

Saturday is Soup Day at What a Hoot. The Girl Campers gather at Beaver Creek State Park in the spring and fall…both wonderful times to camp and both offering cool nights when a hot mug of soup is most welcome. Yesterday morning it was all of forty-one degrees when I woke up. The perfect day to get out the crockpot and make something yummy.

\n

I’m really getting the hang of cooking in the RPod. It’s a compact kitchen, but there is plenty of storage in the ample pantry…even for this monstrous 8-quart slow cooker. There are always several varieties of soup at the Saturday evening meal. This year, I decided to make beef and noodles…a wonderful comfort food that never fails to satisfy.

\n

I bought a big chuck roast, some pre-diced onions/celery/carrots, a large pack of sliced mushrooms, some beef broth, a family sized jar of prepared beef gravy, and a 24oz. bag of frozen noodles. I sear each side of the roast in my iron skillet, then sauté the veggies and mushrooms, and put it all in the crockpot. I pour the bottled gravy and about a cup of the beef broth over the whole thing and simmer it on low for about eight hours. About an hour before I’m ready to eat, I throw in the bag of noodles and add another cup or so of beef broth. I turn it up on high and when the noodles are done, it’s dinner time! One of the nice things about having the leftovers is packing up individual containers and putting them in the freezer for meals down the road. 

\n

I realized last night, I haven’t been as conservative with water as I thought and my freshwater tank is down to 1/3 full, which means I have approximately 10 gallons left on board. I have at least two more nights camping before I can refill my fresh water and dump the grey and blackwater tanks so I’ll need to watch more carefully. I can warm up leftovers the next couple of days and use paper plates so I’ll be fine.

\n

I think Diane had a good time camping. She enjoyed the girls and the campground. She learned a lot about staying in a travel trailer. The only camping experience she ever had was sleeping in a tent in Girl Scouts…which she hated. She really liked the RPod. I don’t know that camping will be an activity she seeks out in the future, but it sure was fun to show her the ropes and to spend some time with my good friend. There have been a lot of people who never dreamed of camping and end up enjoying themselves…whether or not they ever take it up as a pastime. 

\n

❤️

\n
“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”\n

Hebrews 11:8-12 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-06T01:30:58-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/06/cooking-in-the-rpod.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","Gratitude","Comfort","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/10/05/setting-up-the-spare-room.html", "title": "Setting up the “Spare Room”", "content_html": "

\"RPod “Converting the sofa to a spare bed in the RPod 196!”

\n

I’m Back!!! Mr. FixIt and I had a wonderful time camping together and the little break was just what I needed to recharge. There’s nothing like being in the woods in a little camper. Losing Mr. Virgo taught me to really appreciate every moment and this week has been grand!

\n

On Monday, we checked into Tomlinson Run State Park in the tippy top of the Northern Panhandle of West Virginia. The drive up was lovely as we followed the Ohio River on Rt. 7. Mr. FixIt drove separately and followed along behind me. We got to our campsite by mid-afternoon and unhooked. It’s a lovely campground, located on top of a hill and densely wooded. The sites are all nicely spaced apart from each other. We had electric but no water. That’s not a problem, really. You just use the water you carry with you in your fresh water tanks. We rode our bikes around the campground, we cooked outside, and we spent as much time as we could sitting out looking at the stars.

\n

We left Tomlinson Run on Wednesday and headed to Beaver Creek to meet up with the Girl Campers. Mr. FixIt loves to hang out with the girls and they really enjoy him as well. We had fires in the Solo Stove which is wonderful…so much less smoke than a conventional campfire but still enough that you feel as though you had the camping experience. We had some rain here Wednesday night. Quite a bit actually. 

\n

Mr. Fixit left yesterday mid-day to head home. My friend Diane joined me last night. Diane graduated from high school with me but we didn’t know each other back then. She and I didn’t really become good friends till I moved to the family farm in West Virginia in 2014…the year after Mr. Virgo died. I needed to find someone who could help me unload a truck so I called her to get a recommendation. We became fast friends after that. 

\n

I tried to get her to camp with me several years ago, but Motel 8 is roughing it to Diane. Then, when she found out I was taking the RPod out for a road test, she texted me with a bombshell. She wanted to come camping with me! She knew I’d be writing about my camping experiences and wanted to offer her services as “blog fodder”. “Camping with the Non-Camper!” Brilliant! This could either be really, really good…or really, really bad. I’m happy to report that, so far, she seems to be having a grand time! She fits right in with these great gals.

\n

As is always the case, there’s always a good deal of food at these events and last night was a smorgasbord. Tonight is soup night…my favorite night during What a Hoot. Everyone brings their A-game on soup night and we all go around taste testing each person’s creation. I decided to do something a little bit different this year and make beef and noodles. I’ll stick the chuck roast in the crock pot in the morning and let it simmer all day. It will be a welcome addition, I am sure.

\n

This morning was predicted to be 41 degrees! After a long stretch of hot, dry weather, I am really welcoming the cooler temperatures of fall. I needed to make a reconfiguration of the camper to accommodate my guest. I turned the jack knife sofa into a twin bed. The back of the sofa is a little bit higher than the seat when it’s laid out flat. I bought some firm upholstery foam sheets to lay down on the lower section to make an even base and place my inflatable mattress on top. It was cool enough for the furnace. Today is Pioneer Days down in the Historic Village. The grist mill will be running and there will be tours of the village buildings. Our friend Gail’s son wrote a book about the haunted history of Beaver Creek and will be on hand to sign his books.

\n

So far, the trip is fabulous and so is the RPod 196! The tickets are on sale on girlcamper.com for $10 each and the proceeds benefit the Hold You Foundation, an organization that assists families with critically ill children. This is a wonderful chance to support a worthy cause as well and get the opportunity to buy a wonderful camper! It’s good to be back!

\n

❤️

\n
“We love because he first loved us.”\n

1 John 4:19 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-10-05T01:30:44-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/10/05/setting-up-the-spare-room.html", "tags": ["Family","Uplifting Stories","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Growth","Gratitude","Love","Peace","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip","Marriage","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/28/i-love-fall-camping.html", "title": "I Love Fall Camping!", "content_html": "

\"Camping\" “The week in review…dressing up the dinner table, camping like a girl in the RPod 196.”

\n

The crisp nights of fall lend themselves to camping in a big way. The days are still plenty warm to enjoy outdoor activities and the nights are cool enough to sleep well. I love to spend the evening around a campfire…to slide the windows in the camper open and pile on the warm blankets. There’s nothing like making memories in the golden light of fall!

\n

Yesterday was a busy day from the get go. A leisurely breakfast with Mr. FixIt and a day full of errands catching up with the business of the week. Then we drove to the farm and enjoyed a few hours of peace and quiet in my happy place.

\n

The last two weeks were packed full of fun and learning experiences. I drove over two thousand miles and visited Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and came within four miles of Michigan. We have our great granddaughter’s second birthday party tomorrow so I told Mr. FixIt I am NOT stepping foot in a car! Today is a piddle around the house day and prepare for the upcoming week of fun camping. This time I get to take my sweetie camping with me for four whole days!!!

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It’s the last weekend of September. It’s officially autumn. I know I always say this at this juncture, but…where on earth did this year go???

\n

❤️

\n
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”\n

Galatians 6:9 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-09-28T01:30:14-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/28/i-love-fall-camping.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/26/driving-the-northerly-route.html", "title": "Driving the Northerly Route", "content_html": "

\"Barn “This barn catches your eye traveling I-80 across Ohio.”

\n

I love to drive. That is probably one of the biggest reasons I love camping…because I have to drive there. Yesterday saw me driving across Ohio on I-80. I’ve never driven this route before. I always travel I-70 when I go to Colorado so I was really looking forward to a change of scenery. Ohio did not disappoint.

\n

The farms of the Buckeye State are beyond beautiful. Looking more like still life paintings by Andrew Wyeth, the farms are pristine and perfect. One barn in particular caught my eye and I had to research it when I got to the campground last night.

\n

There was a large mural painted on the side with a portrait and quote of Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th president of the United States and former Governor of Ohio. You can find a story about the artist here.

\n

https://www.thenews-messenger.com/story/news/2015/10/05/new-mural-mark-turnpike-milestone/73370206/

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Another super feature of the Ohio Turnpike is found in the Service Plazas dotting the stretch of well maintained highway. I-80 is a toll road through Indiana and Ohio. Instead of “rest areas”, the Service Plazas actually have camping spots in the back with electricity so you can sleep in your camper overnight with air conditioning. Every interstate in America should have these! I’d want them especially in Indiana, Missouri, and Kansas for my cross country trips to see my Colorado family.

\n

As I wrote this last night, I looked back and the fun two weeks I’ve had. I’ve learned a lot and seen a lot and most importantly enjoyed it all! This trip is reminiscent of the journey I took after Mr. Virgo died…but without the grief and sadness. A kind of “do over” with fresh eyes. There is nothing like cool crisp days with farms and trees tinged with gold and stacks of pumpkins and mums everywhere. America, the beautiful!

\n

❤️

\n
“They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty— and I will meditate on your wonderful works.”\n

Psalms 145:5 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-09-26T01:30:12-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/26/driving-the-northerly-route.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Fun","Gratitude","Peace","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/20/wv-hotdogs.html", "title": "WV Hotdogs!", "content_html": "

\"WV “WV Hot Dogs….one of the finest pastries ever to be found in the Mountain State!”

\n

We had a small gathering of Girl Campers who came to see the new R-Pod all dressed up over at Setzer’s on Wednesday. It was a long day and we were all pretty tired by the time we got back to the campground. One of the girls that arrived said she was so excited because she brought WV Hotdogs. I thought to myself…this gal must really like hotdogs. A bit later, someone asked if anyone brought dessert and Deirdre said, “Yep! I brought WV Hotdogs!!!” Everyone was ooooohing and ahhhhhhing. I totally didn’t get it.

\n

After a dinner of steak and assorted sides, Deirdre brought over a small white box from her camper. When she opened it, there were several cream filled pastries…WV Hotdogs! It seems to me now that I’ve thought about it, the term was way back in the recesses of my mind where words go to die. I just needed to dust it off a little back there and find it!

\n

The pastries were delicious, by the way. And we had the “leftovers” with coffee yesterday morning. Two of the girls had to leave right after lunch and I had the campground to myself till suppertime when Janine and Lynn came back. We had Mississippi Pot Roast for supper along with fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. It was a very relaxing day. Today, I’m packing up the camper and heading home for a couple of days before I had out for Elkhart, IN on Sunday.

\n

On the road again!

\n

❤️

\n
“in every way and everywhere we accept this with all gratitude.”\nActs 24:3 ESV
\n", "date_published": "2019-09-20T01:30:01-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/20/wv-hotdogs.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","goRVing","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/18/the-girl-camper-trailer-reveal.html", "title": "The Girl Camper Trailer Reveal!", "content_html": "\"Girl\n

Today’s the day!!! Tune in at 3:00 on the goRVing Facebook page for a live reveal of how Janine has taken our little R-Pod 196 from “Factory to Fabulous!” We are so excited to show you all the special touches that have totally transformed this camper into a cozy, elegant showstopper.

\n

\"Girl “Janine used bright and cheerful wallpapers from Spoonflower to give the camper an elegant, artsy feel. Campers don’t have to be brown!”

\n

We came to Setzer’s RV Center in Huntington yesterday and were greeted by the owner…our good friend, Lynn Butler. I handed her a laundry list of little things that needed doing. First off, the scissor jack that I bent needed replaced. Then they filled my propane tank and provided me with a water hose so I could fill my freshwater tank. They replaced a low point drain cap that was missing. Once I was plugged into power, I was all set.

\n

\"Girl “Mixing different patterns delineates different living areas giving the camper a much roomier feel.”

\n

We spent the evening finishing up the decor. We put the memory foam mattress topper on the bed and dressed it. After a meal of smoked ribs, we settled in for the night, each in our own little campers…in the parking lot of the RV dealership! We were locked in, safe and sound. There is nothing….nothing like snuggling into your little camper. It has always been a tiny sanctuary for me…my safe place. My happy place. 

\n

\"Girl “Custom fabric was used post factory to make the living area more homey. This jack knife sofa folds out to a twin sized bed.”

\n

Today will be really busy, but fun. I can’t wait till you get to see the interior of this camper. Last night was my first night sleeping in it so I’ll have to tell you about that tomorrow! 

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\"Girl “The kitchen is compact but fully functional. A deep stainless steel sink with a goose neck faucet is a big plus.”

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AND…Raffle Tickets go on sale today on GirlCamper.com

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❤️

\n
“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”\n

Proverbs 14:23 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-09-18T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/18/the-girl-camper-trailer-reveal.html", "tags": ["Travel","Strong Women","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","goRVing","Peace","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/17/chasing-the-sun.html", "title": "Chasing the Sun!", "content_html": "

\"2020 “2020 RPod 196…taking her for a test run for the next four months!”

\n

I’ve been trying to come up with a great name for my epic trip. I have decided I’ll be chasing the sun to stay warm as I travel further south so that’s just what I’ll call it. And yesterday was officially the very first day!!! And what a crazy day it was.

\n

First, we had to pack up our hotel room. It is absolutely amazing what two people can accumulate in three short days! Once we were packed up, we headed to Advanced Auto Parts to buy a 2” ball for my hitch since that’s the size the RPod needs. I found one, but they didn’t have a wrench big enough to handle the job so I went across to the Goodyear store. They didn’t have a big enough tool either. So, rather than keep searching, I just went back to Advanced Auto and bought a new hitch at the correct size and we headed to Hershey Park to pick up the new camper.

\n

When we arrived, our little camper was sitting all by herself at the end of the row. We hooked up and off we went. We had an easy, uneventful trip till we pulled into the field at the Ponderosa. I miscalculated a small incline and caught one of the scissor jacks and bent it. It’s no big deal, it didn’t hurt the camper at all…but it did hurt my pride because I knew better than to come in at that angle. We’ll just chalk it up to being overly tired because we were!

\n

It was wonderful to see Mr. Fixit! He had a pan of my smoked ribs out of the freezer thawing and I popped them in the oven as soon as I walked in. We fiddled around with the campers a little here and there. Janine had a spill in hers from a jar of balsamic vinaigrette that fell out of the cabinet so she had quite a sticky mess to clean up. We were all really excited to dine al fresco on the deck by the pool.

\n

And, just like that…the evening was over and Janine and I both retreated to separate rooms to do our writing while Mr. FixIt watched his evening shows. It was too hot to dry camp in the field without air conditioning so we went for comfort and slept indoors. Today we are driving down to Huntington to Setzer’s RV to get some fine tuning on the campers and I will get my official walk through to learn the inner workings of the RPod. I’m going to have to come up with a cute name for her! Any ideas?

\n

❤️

\n
“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.”\n

Proverbs 28:13 NIV

\n 

\n", "date_published": "2019-09-17T01:30:53-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/17/chasing-the-sun.html", "tags": ["Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Strong Women","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","goRVing","Courage","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/16/weve-come-a-long-way.html", "title": "We’ve Come a Long Way Baby!", "content_html": "

\"Early “Camping in the early days in Denver. This is just down the street from where Ben & Sue live!”

\n

Janine and I spent our time at the RV Show yesterday browsing around for content for our blogs. We stood for eight hours and walked nearly 10,000 steps. By the time the show was finished, we were exhausted but then there was work to be done. Processing and editing photos, writing blog posts, calculating trip routes and travel times. All the logistics that come with the postmortems of a travel show.

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I’ll bet we didn’t get to see one tenth of this show. And even that was overwhelming. We did see a couple of really cool campers. We saw some really EXPENSIVE campers. We saw everything from bargain basement, bare bones boxes to luxury on wheels. It’s amazing what some of the interiors of these campers look like. Marble counters, high end furnishings, and appliances that look like they come out of the finest kitchens. It boggles the mind that people would pay half a million dollars for a fancy bus.

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There are so many accessories….many that you definitely don’t need, but there are lots that were pretty handy. One was a rechargeable work light that would work well to illuminate a campsite if you arrive in the dark and need to back in. We have some really fun accessories that I’ll be sharing with you after the big reveal next week. We are still holding back the majority of the photos till then.

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In the meantime, they are breaking down the show overnight. I need to get a smaller ball on my hitch to fit the new camper. Janine and I are heading to the Ponderosa today then to Huntington tomorrow. We’ll dry camp out in the field tonight! So please keep us in your prayers for travel mercies today. I am so excited about pulling this camper today!

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❤️

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“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”\n

Proverbs 2:6 NIV

\n", "date_published": "2019-09-16T01:30:40-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/16/weve-come-a-long-way.html", "tags": ["Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Strong Women","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","West Virginia","Gratitude","goRVing","Grace","God","Wisdom","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Change","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/15/the-really-really-big-show.html", "title": "The Really REALLY Big Show!", "content_html": "

\"Women “Janine, her BFF Carol, and me in front of the R Pod at the Hershey RV Show.”

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Ok, so I thought Friday’s show was busy? Hokey Smokes!!! Yesterday was absolutely insane at the RV Show…but SO amazingly fun! Hundreds of people came and walked through the camper. Everyone loved the decor and if they didn’t…it was probably a guy. Guys don’t necessarily get the whole “decorate your camper” thing. That’s why most campers are varying themes of BROWN. I think a guy takes a look and says, “Yeah…that won’t show dirt. Use that!”

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I do have to say, the folks at Forest River are stepping up their game in the new R Pod. The cabinets are a lovely shade of grey and the walls are off white. It is a perfect canvas on which to decorate in whatever style strikes your fancy. The light colors along with multiple large windows brings in an abundance of light which is exactly what I am looking for in a camper. I am going to switch the mattress out. I’ve never found an RV mattress that I found satisfactory. I am very choosy about my mattresses. I have an extra memory foam mattress at home so I’ll switch it out when I’m there next week.

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Janine and I were so exhausted when we got back to our hotel room yesterday. We both took a long nap, then headed out for dinner. Our meal was ok. I was disappointed in my main course. I had pasta and meat sauce with Italian sausage. The sausage had been left in the skillet too long and was actually burnt. When the waitress took my plate, she asked if there was something wrong. I explained and she offered something different. By that time I was full from just the pasta and sauce and didn’t care for anything else. 

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Pretty soon, the manage/owner came out to talk with me. He said he took my entree off the check. In the process of our discussion, I informed him I had a good understanding of what he was going through. I told him about Mr. Virgo working in the Food & Beverage industry all of his career. He lit up and we began a long discussion comparing notes of who worked where and when. This is something I always found fascinating with Mr. Virgo. No matter where we were, he could find someone who knew someone and there was always common ground. It made me smile.

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I told him our story. I told him about going out to buy the camper and how he died while we were looking. I told him about buying the little camper and taking it out in the wilderness and backroads of Colorado. I told him about selling my house and buying the big camper and getting rid of 95% of my personal belongings. I told him about being on the road in the camper and writing about it and how I came to know Janine. Then, I told him the happy ending of the story…running into Mr. FixIt and how we are just about ready to celebrate our 1st Wedding Anniversary.

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A happy ending. It’s never “The End” though…is it. Mr. Virgo died. But it wasn’t the end. It was the end of many things…but not of him. Or of me. There is always more story to be written…even when you cannot believe you can survive another moment after such a painful loss. Being away, doing something different, learning new things, expanding my territory. All these things offer a lovely perspective of life. I can’t think how my life could be any more perfect than what it is. I am so incredibly grateful. Telling my story gives me this gift every single time.

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❤️

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“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”\n

James 1:17 NIV

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\n", "date_published": "2019-09-15T01:30:02-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/15/the-really-really-big-show.html", "tags": ["Travel","Uplifting Stories","Grief","Strong Women","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","Growth","Gratitude","goRVing","Wisdom","Humbled","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/13/full-moonfriday-the-th.html", "title": "Full Moon...Friday the 13th", "content_html": "

\"Full “Tonight is a full moon AND Friday the 13th! What could POSSIBLY go wrong?”

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If you have ever worked in an emergency room, you know it is guaranteed to be crazy busy on the night of a full moon and any Friday the 13th. Add the two? Yikes! Let’s just say, I’m super happy I am going to go work an RV show today and not an ER!

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Yesterday was insanely busy. I got up early and finished packing. Mr. FixIt had to work so I loaded up the truck by myself. Although I started early and it was only 73 degrees, within an hour I was sweating buckets and things became decidedly more difficult. I managed to get everything finished around 11:00 and headed to town. I had some errands to run before a doctor’s appointment at 2:45. The Doctor ran really late so it was 4:15 by the time I was finished. 

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As I walked around the back of my truck in the parking lot, I noticed the hitch wasn’t on my truck. Mr. FixIt usually does that for me because a hitch with all the gear to use weight distribution bars is really heavy. I had to drive all the way home and hook it up myself before I could head out of town. I was really tired by 10:00 and started looking for a hotel room. I finally found one around Hagerstown, MD and stopped for the night. There’s a long stretch through the mountains where the pickin’s are slim.

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I love traveling by night. The traffic is lighter and the moon was amazing! By the time I got settled in my room, it was 11:30 so I was whupped. I don’t have to be at the RV Show till noon so I could sleep in this morning!  Gotta be ready for a busy, busy couple of days!

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❤️

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“For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’ ””\n

Luke 4:10-11 NIV

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\n", "date_published": "2019-09-13T01:30:48-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/13/full-moonfriday-the-th.html", "tags": ["Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Fun","Gratitude","goRVing","Grace","Love","God","Courage","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Choices","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2019/09/12/making-memories.html", "title": "Making Memories", "content_html": "

\"Little “Little Bit, taking a walk in her pretty party dress.”

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Someday, when our great granddaughter grows up, I want her to look back on her memories of me and think, “Wow! My Gigi was REALLY brave!” I want there to be family stories like, “Remember the time Gigi went on that five month camping trip on her own??? That was awesome!” But more importantly, I want her to remember running into my arms after church and plastering me with wet kisses and huge hugs. Of leading me around by the finger to show me the awesome wonders of her tiny world.

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These babies are going to grow so much in the next few months! Little Boo will be turning over and trying his best to talk. Little Bit will be close to being a big sister by the time this trip is finished. Pictures aren’t quite the same thing. Same with my Colorado grands. Big is BIG…driving, Sophomore in high school. Little is really digging theater class and is rocking middle school. They are past that “needing Nana” stage. I want to enjoy these little while they still want to be around me!

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I got the storage tubs packed yesterday. They go in the bed of the truck this morning. I need to load up my clothes, pack a cooler, and get everything in the cab of the truck. My truck has a Super Crew Cab so there’s plenty of room to pack things that are more delicate. And, I have a clothes rod across the back seat and I literally use the truck as a closet. I am sure I have too much, but I can always correct the load when I’m home between trips.

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I have a list that I’m almost through. I can work on that all morning and leave this afternoon. I told you…this last week would FLY by. And it has! So…here we go!!!

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??“On the road again…”??

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❤️

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“But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life.”\n

Luke 21:18-19 NIV

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\n", "date_published": "2019-09-12T01:30:57-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2019/09/12/making-memories.html", "tags": ["Road Trip","Littles","Chasing the Sun - Girl Camper Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/10/08/spontaneity.html", "title": "Spontaneity", "content_html": "\n
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I'm not a huge planner. I fly by the seat of my pants most of the time so when my niece texted early this week and said she had a three day weekend break from college, I'm like \"Heck yeah, girlfriend...I'm there!\" No matter that I left the farm at 9:30 and didn't get to my niece's sorority house till 6:30. I'm all about the trip!

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Yesterday was our chance to go explore. We were going to go into Indianapolis, but at the very last minute decided to go to Louisville. We went to Nashville, Indiana first. Nashville is filled with block after block of small shops, galleries, artisans and restaurants. We arrived in Louisville in time to catch our breath and head to the Old Spaghetti Factory for dinner. We went out afterward to walk off all that pasta. We went down to the waterfront park and watched the sternwheeler take off. We were going to a blues festival but I was unsure about going into an unfamiliar neighborhood after dark when the only way in and out was with an Uber driver. Especially with a cute little 19 year old. We decided to head for 4th Street Live...a long stretch of restaurants and bars with live music in the square. On our way, my niece spotted a horse drawn carriage and shyly asked if we could do that. She'd never done it before. So, of course...we did, because I'm the cool aunt!

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Spontaneity. Flexibility. The ability to enjoy the next thing that comes around the corner without having to map it all out. That's the way I like to live my life. You never know what you might miss if you are too rigid in your planning. Seeing my niece's face when I said we could take the carriage? Priceless! We'll both remember this weekend...far more than any tchotchke I might have bought her for her high school graduation or Bat Mitzvah.

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❤️

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“give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.\"”

\n‭‭Luke‬ ‭6:38‬ ‭ESV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-10-08T01:30:54-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/10/08/spontaneity.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/10/07/the-mothman.html", "title": "The Mothman", "content_html": "\n
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In mid-November of 1966, five men were digging a grave near Clendenin, West Virginia when they reportedly saw a \"bird man\" with a seven foot wingspan swoop down over them. The next month, two couples were cruising the backroads in a area called TNT outside of Point Pleasant, West Virginia (named for the old munitions plant that was located there) when they saw the same creature swoop down over their car. It allegedly followed the car for some distance and understandably freaked the couples out. This was big news and in all the papers at the time.

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In mid-December of 1967, I was preparing to go to my eighth grade dance when a special news announcement came over the television. The \"Silver Bridge\" that crossed the Ohio River at Point Pleasant failed and crashed into the cold, dark water below during rush hour. The bridge was filled with holiday shoppers and workers going home to their families. Forty-six people died. There were conspiracy theorists then, too. They thought the disaster was related to the Mothman. Or, perhaps it was the Curse of Chief Cornstalk in retaliation for the attacks on his people by the settlers pushing into the west. At any rate, there was never a sighting of the Mothman after the bridge collapsed. Scientists theorized what the hapless victims actually saw was a particularly large sandhill crane that had wandered off its migratory path. They can grow as tall as a man and have seven foot wingspans and reddish feathers around the eyes.

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Those were the days of flying saucers and little green men, duck-and-cover drills in grade school, and the very real threat of annihilation by atomic bombs just 90 miles from Miami. Our parents still remembered Orson Welles broadcasting the drama series \"War of the Worlds\" on the radio causing mass hysteria across the country when people thought we were actually being attacked by creatures from outer space. The Roswell Incident was just twenty years old when this now mythical creature made its appearance over the sleepy town of Point Pleasant.

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Mass hysteria, mob mentality, and the power of the imagination still wreaks havoc when something gets a foothold. And now, with the whole world separated by mere nanoseconds thanks to the Internet, large crowds of people are seen in videos as they rush down the streets of college campuses chasing scary clowns. The psychology of that fascinates me.

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Anyway, I digress. I went for a drive the other evening. It was warm and the colors were really starting to look gorgeous so I meandered down the river roads till I found myself near Point Pleasant. I had never seen the Mothman statue nor the bridge that replaced the fallen Silver Bridge so I went the extra fourteen miles to see them. I was a little disappointed that I got there after the Mothman Museum had closed for the night...fall hours, you know. West Virginia is a fascinating state. You never know what you're going to find around the next bend.

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❤️

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“And this is how I saw the horses in my vision and those who rode them: they wore breastplates the color of fire and of sapphire and of sulfur, and the heads of the horses were like lions' heads, and fire and smoke and sulfur came out of their mouths.”‭‭

\nRevelation‬ ‭9:17‬ ‭ESV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-10-07T01:30:04-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/10/07/the-mothman.html", "tags": ["Fun","Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/10/06/on-the-road-again.html", "title": "On the Road Again...", "content_html": "\n
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I swear...this has been a really busy autumn! My niece texted me last week and she has a three day weekend break from college so I'm off to Indianapolis today to explore with her. I can't wait! I've loved her since the moment I held her in my arms when she was born.

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I really don't know anything about Indianapolis other than driving through on I-70 when I go cross-country. Is there anything I really shouldn't miss??? I'm not taking TOW-Wanda. She's just too big and cumbersome on trips like this. I have GOT to get a smaller trailer so I'm more apt to take off and explore. The right one will come along. I'm going camping one last time on the weekend of October 21st then TOW-Wanda gets put to bed for the winter. At least she's here at the farm so I can go out and visit.

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...just can't wait to get on the road again!

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? ❤️

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“Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.”

\n‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭28:6‬ ‭ESV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-10-06T01:30:09-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/10/06/on-the-road-again.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/09/14/on-the-road-again.html", "title": "On the Road Again", "content_html": "\n
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I am so excited for this weekend! I'm pulling the camper up to Columbus to get some warranty work done. While it's in the shop, I'm bunking with good friend and mentor, fellow Sister on the Fly and Girl Camper...Janine Pettit. Janine has a podcast called Girl Camper on iTunes and it's all about traveling the back roads of America and learning how to camp like a girl. Janine has been promoting the Girl Camper movement since 1999. She's not the only visionary in this field. Maurrie and Becky from Sisters on the Fly, Mary Jane Butters with her Glampers on the Loose, and Julie Thorsen from Girl Camping...just some of the great women who promote this lifestyle. I think the original Girl Camper was Mazie Morrison, mother of the real life sisters who founded Sisters on the Fly. She was one amazing woman. She had moxie.

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Janine will be at the Country Living Fair and I get to hang out with her and meet and greet the fair goers as they meander around the Campers that will be there. TOO fun...and all the beautiful vendor booths are more than worth the trip to one of the four annual fairs put on by Country Living Magazine. I'm excited to attend. This will be my third fair.

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I'll send pictures along as the week progresses! Prayers for travel mercies.

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❤️

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“For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you to guard you carefully; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’ ””

\n‭‭Luke‬ ‭4:10-11‬ ‭NIV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-09-14T01:30:27-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/09/14/on-the-road-again.html", "tags": ["Fun","Road Trip","Country Living Fair","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/09/13/road-trip.html", "title": "Road Trip!!!", "content_html": "\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-09-13T01:30:56-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/09/13/road-trip.html", "tags": ["West Virginia","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/30/a-simple-life.html", "title": "A Simple Life", "content_html": "\n
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I was amazed how easy it was to navigate in and out of Washington, DC. It took me longer to get my truck from the hotel garage Sunday than it did to drive deep into the Shenandoah Valley. I was inside for three days in meetings in the air conditioning so I didn't get out till Sunday morning. I walked around and saw the White House, the Washington Monument, and the American History Museum. I've visited DC many times and I'm always thrilled each time I return. Now that I realize how easy it is to get there from WV, I may go back and spend more time exploring.

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After staying overnight up on the mountain at my cousin's, I headed back to the farm yesterday. The very real concern of that roof leak came to the top of my list of things that need doing. I stopped at Lowe's and texted my friend who knows about such things to find out exactly what I needed. Armed to the teeth with paint and brushes, plus a flat of drinking water, I noticed the beautiful mums in the garden center and decided to buy one for the front porch. Mums mean Autumn is near. I love an all white bouquet, so I bought the white one.

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It's too hot to paint the roof just yet, but it'll be cooling off before long. In the meantime, I've been on a treadmill for weeks so I'm taking a couple days off to regroup. Sitting on the porch reading...that sounds wonderful. Save my place...I'll be back soon.

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❤️

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“When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.”‭‭

\nProverbs‬ ‭31:21‬ ‭NIV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-30T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/30/a-simple-life.html", "tags": ["The Farm","Peaceful Moments","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/29/strathmore-farm.html", "title": "Strathmore Farm", "content_html": "\n
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Strathmore Farm = My Great-Grandfather Lived Here
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The Covered Bridge at Strathmore Farm
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Inside the Covered Bridge at Strathmore Farm
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I remember this house from a trip we took there in 1955 after my uncle was killed in a plane crash. This was my Great Grandfather's house.

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-29T01:30:44-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/29/strathmore-farm.html", "tags": ["Family","Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/26/in-his-house.html", "title": "In His House", "content_html": "\n
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I plugged the address of my hotel into the GPS, checked my messages one last time in Wi-Fi range, took a sip of my coffee, and hit \"GO\". Mavis, my lovely electronic travel companion, immediately piped up.

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\"Follow the highlighted route.\"

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Cool, chica...road trip!

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I love to drive. The fact that I've put 42,000 miles on my truck in 23 months should be proof enough. This trip to DC brought me over Shenandoah Mountain with its myriad twists and turns and steep 9% grades. The Virginia/West Virginia border crosses at the peak with a stunning view of the Shenandoah Valley below. Purple mountains' majesty.

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Once at the bottom, on the Virginia side, there is a long straight stretch that takes you through a portion of the George Washington National Forest. The sun was just reaching the 10:00 point when I noticed the way it beamed down through the trees, sending rays of light splashing on the gun-barrel highway. I glanced behind and ahead...no one within sight. I pulled over, turned off the truck, rolled the windows down, and breathed deep the loamy wet scent of the deciduous forest floor. The morning dew dripping from leaf to leaf sounded like bacon frying far off. Bird songs echoed like the plunk of a small waterfall...lilting, melodic. Life in C Minor.

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Vivaldi's Four Seasons wafted out the sunroof to serenade the unseen creatures in the woods. A breeze stirred, it's gentle fingers brushing a tendril of my lengthening gray against my cheek...the cool air bringing a thrill on the backs of my bare arms. Autumn is nearing. Mother Nature is wearing the tired green of late summer. I closed my eyes and smiled.

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I had miles to go. In a couple of hours I would be weaving my way through the lunch hour traffic of our nation's capital. But, for this one moment, here on a deserted stretch of wooded highway, I enjoyed a quiet gathering in God's holiest of churches. I was in HIS house. And, in that moment, my life was perfect.

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❤️

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““But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.”

\n‭‭Job‬ ‭12:7-10‬ ‭NIV‬‬\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-26T01:30:39-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/26/in-his-house.html", "tags": ["Fun","Gratitude","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/04/napping-in-the-rest-stop.html", "title": "Napping in the Rest Stop", "content_html": "\n
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So, it's 90 degrees, you've been driving four HOURS, you've snacked on everything within reach in the cab of your truck, and it's nap time. What do you do? Why, you pull into this beautiful shaded rest area by a lake, put up the window shades, crack the windows, lay your seat back, put your hat brim down over your face...and snooze for an hour. After you lock the doors, of course. Safety first, you know!

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A fairly uneventful day. I left Topeka by 8:30 and a little after crossing the Mississippi River, my speedometer dropped to zero, my odometer readout went blank, and my cruise control stopped...but everything else was working fine. I asked Siri to take me to the nearest Ford dealer. Twenty-five miles later, I pull into Farina, Illinois at 4:29. They close at 4:30! The nice young man ran a diagnostic and there is a sensor in the transmission that tells the speedometer how fast it's going. It misfired but when they started it back up, it reset itself. They said there's nothing dangerous to it and if it happens again, just pull over, turn the truck off and restart it. It will reset automatically and then get it fixed when I get home. Thank you, God! Nothing dangerous. Nothing expensive.

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Still really hot in the middle of the breadbasket of the Midwest. As I write this, I'm sitting in a Bob Evans in Terra Haute having breakfast for dinner. I deserve a little comfort food! I could drive on in if I want. It's not that much further. I'll let you know when I get home!

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❤️

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-04T01:30:23-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/04/napping-in-the-rest-stop.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/04/sunset-oversomewhere.html", "title": "Sunset Over...Somewhere!", "content_html": "\n
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Who knows? It was a l-o-n-g day yesterday. I left Wichita at 8:30am and arrived in WV at 2:00am. Safe, sound, and somewhat sane! lol
I'm sleeping till noon! ❤️

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-04T01:30:08-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/04/sunset-oversomewhere.html", "tags": ["Gratitude","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/02/the-cathedral-of-the-plains.html", "title": "The Cathedral of the Plains", "content_html": "\n
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Driving across Kansas gives you lots of time to think. And sing at the top of your lungs to every song you know on your playlist. I always stop a lot to break up the drive. There are lots of grain silos, corn fields, sunflowers, and wind turbines on the I-70 corridor through America's breadbasket. I always look for something unusual to go see. In this case, there's a huge cathedral sitting out on the planes looking as \"at home\" as the QE2 would in Central Park. The Russians who emigrated and founded this church smuggled wheat sewn in the hems of their garments when they rushed away from home. Unfortunately, they also brought the scourge of Russian thistle with them as well.

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I had every intention of camping in Salina, KS last night. However, by the time I got there, it was dark and still nearly 100°! So, a motel sounded like a better option!

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The ground was still moving beneath me long after I stopped for the night. I'm meeting Sisters on the Fly friends today in Topeka! Look out...it will never be the same!

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❤️

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“‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty.””

\nHaggai 2:9 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-02T01:30:55-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/02/the-cathedral-of-the-plains.html", "tags": ["Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/08/01/on-the-road-again.html", "title": "On the Road Again!", "content_html": "\n
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Heading east today. Stopped for a bite to eat. Who doesn't love listening to the Allman Brothers singing \"Whipping Post\" in IHOP, right? Alone again, but so much to be grateful for...so much to look forward to. Life is an adventure. What will I see today?

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❤

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-08-01T01:30:23-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/08/01/on-the-road-again.html", "tags": ["Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/07/26/dusty-summer-days.html", "title": "Dusty Summer Days", "content_html": "\n
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The thermometer at the bank read 102° as I pulled into Delta. The sharp glare of the late July sun glinted off the glass of the passing cars creating a kaleidoscope on the walls of the tired storefronts. A group of brown-haired children played in the dusty lot near an old antique store, their skin the color of beechnuts from countless hours of summer fun. I adjusted the radio and \"Old Black Dodge\" by Sean Rowe came on. I looked up from the dial and something caught my eye.

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Cars. Old, dusty, rusty cars. A whole row of them in an empty lot off to my right. I pulled into the next available parking spot and walked the two blocks back to get a closer look. I love cars. I don't know a ton about them but oh, I love cars...especially old cars. My grandpa had an old Model A Ford that he converted into a farm truck. I loved that thing. It didn't have a muffler and the clutch was really tricky. He let me drive it once in a while. That mish-mash of a truck instilled the love of rusty junk in my heart.

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I got to the lot full of old cars and noted their cracked windshields, rusty red fenders with flecks of the original paint colors still clinging to them, horsehair and excelsior barely covered with shreds of dingy brown upholstery. Printed in the lower corner of each windshield in red wax pencil was the simple direction \"Do not raise the hoods!\" It made me curious as to what one might find if one was wont to disobedience. I didn't touch.

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A young man was there photographing these ancient relics...ghosts of a time when post-war bobbie soxers cruised the streets on a Saturday night with Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley & His Comets blaring from the radio. The young man turned to me and broke into a huge, little boy grin and said, \"You'll never find so many of these babies in one place...anywhere!\" You'd think he'd invented cool. He turned around for one last shot then ambled back up the street to his car.

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I went down the line and read every make and model thinking maybe the details would miraculously stick with me. But, no...I know makes like Ford, Plymouth, Oldsmobile. But models and details are lost on me. I see these rusty hunks of metal as works of are...sculptures silently disappearing back into the earth. And, on this day in the sweltering heat of Western Colorado, I stood and paid homage to a simpler time...a simpler world. A time when there was dignity and honor and respect among the citizenry. When children were safe and elders revered. When cars were sturdy and your dad could work on them.

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Finally, the heat got the better of me and it was time to move on from this trip down memory lane...the dusty old bones of an era long gone left shimmering in a little town called Delta.

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❤️

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“I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses.”

\nJoshua 1:3 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-07-26T01:30:37-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/07/26/dusty-summer-days.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Fun","Road Trip","Memories"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/06/15/dillon-reservoir.html", "title": "Dillon Reservoir", "content_html": "\n
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Dillon Reservoir....knee deep in June!!!! Seriously, can it get any better than this??? Nothing but love! ❤️

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Officer's Gulch

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Copper Mountain...stellar day!!!

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-06-15T01:30:29-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/06/15/dillon-reservoir.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/06/14/travel-mercies.html", "title": "Travel Mercies", "content_html": "\n
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First off, let me thank you all for the beautiful birthday greetings and the prayers for safe travel! I arrived safely both nights.

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Sunday I traveled from Bristol to Cedars of Lebanon State Park in Lebanon, TN. I didn't get far traveling because I got a late start and I spent over three hours getting new tires! argh! I arrived at the campground after dark. I couldn't find any place to register and the office was closed so I drove into my favorite campground, found a quiet spot and \"set up\". This consisted of taking my bicycle out of the backseat of the cab of the truck and chaining it up to the trailer hitch. Then I laid out my yoga mat, a picnic blanket, an old electric blanket (both doubled) and put my sleeping bag on top. I finished the bed with my pillow and the minky throw from my bed. I cracked all four Windows and the sunroof about three inches, hung towels on the windows and the sunshades in the windshield. Then I ran an extension cord into the back seat and hung my camping fan down at my feet.8 I climbed in, locked the door, turned on the fan and turned off the light and slept 8 hours! I couldn't stretch my legs out all the way but I was really quite comfortable.

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Last night I pulled into a chain hotel in Salina, KS at 10:30 central. 16 hours on the road with a break here and there. I got a good AAA rate. Needless to say, I was exhausted and this is all you get this morning.

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Just a couple spots of traffic...one accident that was taken care of and didn't look bad. And that's it for now.

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❤️

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“in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

\nProverbs 3:6 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-06-14T01:30:37-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/06/14/travel-mercies.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/06/12/road-tripagain.html", "title": "Road Trip...Again!!!", "content_html": "\n
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I am 1264 miles from CO...the GPS is set and I'm heading west!!!

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-06-12T01:30:24-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/06/12/road-tripagain.html", "tags": ["Travel","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/06/08/road-trip.html", "title": "Road Trip!!!!", "content_html": "\n
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I can't believe it's finally here...the first day of another adventure!!! Do you all realize you've been riding along with me for nearly 60,000 miles??? We've been on so many trips together...CO, WY, NB, SD, NM, UT, KS, IL, IN, OH, WV, TN, KY, VA, NC, SC, MD. Today, I'm heading back down to Bristol, TN to visit family for a few days. TOW-Wanda is staying here. I have places to stay when I travel this time and I'll only be gone about six weeks so it just didn't make sense to drag her around. I have all my camping gear packed up so I'll be doing some tent camping.

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I'll have much more flexibility without the camper so I'm looking forward to doing a little more exploring this trip. I'll post pictures of interest and update you as to my progress.

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I look back at my early travels. Honestly, I'm not sure how I did what I did the first year. I was pretty lost.

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The Brandi Carlile concert last night was absolutely amazing! One of the very best I've seen...truly. If you ever get the chance to see her live...you really should! Talk to you soon!

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❤️

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\n

“You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out.”

\nDeuteronomy 28:6 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-06-08T01:30:23-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/06/08/road-trip.html", "tags": ["Travel","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/05/11/road-trip.html", "title": "Road Trip!", "content_html": "\n
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Annnnnnd....I'm off! Leaving a day early. Let the games begin, girls!!!!

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-05-11T01:30:16-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/05/11/road-trip.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/05/10/road-trip.html", "title": "Road Trip!", "content_html": "\n
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TOW-Wanda needed a checkup. Her hot water heater went out again. ? Getting her all fixed up. A couple spots on the roof needed a little sealant. Mr. Fixit Dude says I've scraped the roof with a couple tree branches so I need to be more mindful of that in the future. One puncture in that rubber roof can mean disaster for the whole trailer! At least the work is under warranty.

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?

\n\n", "date_published": "2016-05-10T01:30:05-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/05/10/road-trip.html", "tags": ["TOW-Wanda!","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/04/17/a-step-back-in-time.html", "title": "A Step Back in Time", "content_html": "\n
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The ubiquitous produce market. The south is dripping with them. My cousins and I took a \"buggy\" ride down the hill last week to pick up some produce at Scotty's Market in Bluff City, TN. One step across the threshold and time seems to slow down. From rutabagas to fresh North Carolina strawberries, the options are plentiful. There is a row of chippy painted chairs in a line in the back. A respectable collection of cast iron cookware graces a wall. The clerk offers me a strawberry as I wander around. The floors were gravel and gave the space a quiet atmosphere. Large flat plank tables held the produce. Workers hovered over bins and picked over the fruits and veggies, pinching away the bad bits. I love stopping to really experience the flavor of the small towns when I travel.

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This is such a beautiful time to travel. Where have your travels led you to a pleasant surprise?

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❤️

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“Then God said, “Let the land sprout with vegetation—every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. These seeds will then produce the kinds of plants and trees from which they came.” And that is what happened. The land produced vegetation—all sorts of seed-bearing plants, and trees with seed-bearing fruit. Their seeds produced plants and trees of the same kind. And God saw that it was good.”

\nGenesis 1:11-12 NLT\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-04-17T01:30:47-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/04/17/a-step-back-in-time.html", "tags": ["Travel","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/04/05/on-being-alone.html", "title": "On Being Alone", "content_html": "\n
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I love road trips. I love to drive because I do my best thinking behind the wheel of my truck. I work through all kinds of issues as the miles fly by. I have whole conversations with people and they always end up going my way. I make plans, solve problems, write stories. I do this best alone. Don't get me wrong...traveling with Mr. Virgo was a hoot and a half! He always had a good story or a funny joke. He always spotted the best places to stop and enjoy a good view. Travel with Mr. Virgo was a joy! I know some don't, but I travel well alone.

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I drove to Louisville yesterday. I'm spending the next two days solid with a media consultant creating my new website. I'm really excited about it! The drive down was lovely. Rain coming out of WV and across most of Ohio gave way to sunny skies in Kentucky. It gave me six hours of fairly uninterrupted drive time. Eating was fine. Exercise was not but I did walk the steps to the third floor several times so that counts as something!

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Stay tuned for more fun adventures! There's SO much going on in the background that I can't talk about yet but it's gonna be awesome!

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❤️

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“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.”

\nJames 1:22-24 NIV\n
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\n\n", "date_published": "2016-04-05T01:30:53-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/04/05/on-being-alone.html", "tags": ["Travel","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/03/21/honey-im-home.html", "title": "Honey, I'm Home!", "content_html": "\n
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Wow...what a week! Every single one of you should take a break from FB for a few days. I admit, I peeked a couple of times. My granddaughter was out of state at a swim meet. I got a smarmy message from some guy I had to take care of. And even a sabbatical can't stop Fitness Friday. It was great to be away from any negative influence but I sure missed all your positive energy. You're my daily dose of Vitamin LOVE!

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Where to start? I drove to Blackwater Falls State Park on Tuesday to meet with Janine Pettit, Girl Camper extraordinaire. She brought her best friend, Carol from New Jersey. We had adjoining rooms and it was like summer camp sleepovers! The park is gorgeous and we were there with the Tucker County Tourism representative. Girl Camper is hosting a Go Girl Go camping weekend in May at Blackwater Falls. We still have a very limited number of spots left so if you would like to join us, let me know.

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Wednesday morning found me working in my room while Janine and Linda toured the area. I was recently invited to submit a proposal to speak at an international conference in DC in August so I had to focus and get that done. The process was complicated by the need to update some social media and do a little online housekeeping first so it was time consuming. Wednesday afternoon we hiked. Carol is also into fitness so we ran down and back up 242 steps to the lower observation deck overlooking the falls and took the lodge steps two at a time with deep lunging steps down the halls. I'm sure the security footage was entertaining. We ended the night with a working dinner.

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Thursday after breakfast, Carol headed back to New Jersey and Janine and I sat down to record a Podcast on \"Solo Women Travelers\". I'll let you know when it goes live. We also discussed my upcoming Podcasts as the Travel Correspondent for Girl Camper: Going Places, Doing Things. My first will be on Camping in Colorado. Janine is darling and extremely knowledgeable on technology, media, and marketing and I always learn so much from her. And besides that, she's great fun!

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After recording Thursday, I took off for my cousin's house. And what road trip of mine would be complete without a diversion? I saw the sign for Spruce Knob, the highest peak in West Virginia at 4863 feet, and turned off the beaten path. It was 44° and really windy at the top of the observation tower but the views were breathtaking. I backpacked up the other side of this mountain back in 1979 and it was amazingly beautiful with the rhododendron in full bloom in June! I saw an unusual bird this trip, slowly crossing the road...a Woodcock. It has a strange dance. Google it!

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I went to Harrisonburg, Virginia with my cousin and her husband on Friday. We took over the front end of a 1920's Cadillac that he is having rebuilt. The hot rod guy had recently finished rebuilding a 1934 bus and took us for a ride to a local barbecue restaurant for dinner. Such fun!

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Saturday dawned with snow on the ground, much to my dismay. I wanted to crawl into bed and pull my covers over my head! However, that's not what we do when we are focused on fitness. My friends back home started texting back-and-forth about the Blues Festival being held in Marietta Saturday night. How could I resist four hours of dancing for exercise? So, I took off and came home. The music was fabulous and the dancing was great fun. Four of us pooled our money to buy 20 tickets for the raffle, and we won! We will split a year's worth of tickets to live music in the mid Ohio Valley. How cool is that?

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That was my week. My time away reinforced my decision to focus on fitness and my observations on life and not talk about grief all the time now. I will be restructuring my blog next month so that my earlier writings will be more readily accessible when you are needing more support during early grief. I want my readers to see there is life after loss. What message do I send if, after three years, my loss is all I can talk about? You never \"get over\" grief. But you DO get through it. There will certainly be times we revisit darker topics as that is the nature of grief. However, what we do with the rest of the life that we are gifted with depends a great deal on us. That's my focus now...living a life that is genuine, full of joy and purpose, and in as good health as I can achieve. My focus is on \"Positive Aging\" and all that entails. I'm so glad to be back home on the Ranch! Thanks for keeping the fire going while I was gone!

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❤️

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“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green,”

\nPsalm 92:14 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-03-21T01:30:12-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/03/21/honey-im-home.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/03/16/taking-a-break.html", "title": "Taking a Break", "content_html": "\n
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I realized the other day how much I enjoy social media. \"Enjoy\" is a kind way of saying I cannot unhook from my phone, iPad, and laptop. Cannot. The thought sends feelings of dread through me. What if someone needs me? What if I miss something? What will they think if I don't write back in a timely fashion? What if they just came on board...will they stay if they're met with this \"Declaration of Independence\"? It's ridiculous. But it's so true. It has contributed to my sedentary lifestyle and subsequent weight gain. In keeping with my new \"Strive to Thrive\" message, I'm unplugging till Monday, March 21st. Not absolutely unplugging like...locking my phone in the car. I have a brother with a developmental disability that I need to be available for. So, I vow to check my phone once in the morning and once in the evening for the next six days!

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See you Monday!

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❤️

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“The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”

\nMark 6:30-32 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-03-16T01:30:49-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/03/16/taking-a-break.html", "tags": ["Health","Fun","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Control"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/03/15/sunrise-on-the-ohio.html", "title": "Sunrise on the Ohio", "content_html": "\n
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Along with the time change comes the bursting forth of life from a sleeping earth. Trees are flowering, crocus and daffodils are creating carpets of soft color here and there, and with that comes the trademark thunderstorms of the Mid-Ohio Valley. The crash of thunder rolls and reverberates up and down the water, echoing off the banks on the far side. It fills me up with memories of growing up six blocks from the Ohio River.

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I've been walking and biking for exercise and the last three walks have taken me up the hill right past my childhood home. I played in the woods on that hill when I was growing up. My first bike was a heavy monstrosity, single speed, coaster brakes. I never could ride all the way to the top of that hill without stopping. Not even standing up on the pedals. My first attempt to walk it last week was so sad. I couldn't get to the top without stopping to catch my breath. The second time, I didn't have to stop but I couldn't carry on a conversation. Yesterday, I got all the way to the top and talked the whole way. Progress! My trainer is out of town and I'm on the road for a week so I have to keep this pace up on my own. I plan on hiking in the state park and I'll have my bike with me so I'm hoping to get some riding in as well. Next week...kayaking!!!!

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Again, I'm not sure of the reception and Wi-Fi capabilities where I'm going. It's right in the middle of the mountains so don't worry if you don't hear from me for a bit. I haven't taken much in the way of a break for awhile so maybe this is an excellent opportunity to step into nature and some girlfriend time. Till then...Thank you for being here!

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❤️

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“The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.”

\nPsalm 65:8 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-03-15T01:30:56-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/03/15/sunrise-on-the-ohio.html", "tags": ["Fun","Road Trip","Fitness"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2016/01/08/snow.html", "title": "Snow!", "content_html": "\n
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Last winter in WV was dismal. Cold, windy, snow...snow...and MORE snow. Denver was downright balmy till late. This year, Colorado is getting socked with snow upon snow and people were mowing their lawns New Year's Eve in WV! Annnnnd....where am I? In the cold and snow...both times. It's not so bad though. Look at this beautiful picture. I went up to the cemetery yesterday to say goodbye to Mr. Virgo on my way out of town. We had about 5 or 6 inches of new snow overnight. There was a low ceiling of clouds so as I climbed the hill I was enveloped in their gauzy swirling mists. I snapped this shot as the sun was just starting to burn through. This is the view from his grave. Isn't it beautiful? It's so peaceful and quiet up there. I love going up to visit him. I imagine him in the wind.

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The drive back was fine. There were cars and trucks in the ditches and median but by the time I went through it was just slushy. It was icy and snow packed over the passes but I just dropped the Jeep in 4WD and exercised caution.

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My friend Marion Corbin Mayer and I are hosting a Salon on January 17th from 2-4. If you live in the Cincinnati area, please come. I'd love to see you! Marion will be showing her beautiful paintings and I will be speaking about \"Left Turns & Lemonade\".

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Creative Catalyst Studio is located in the Essex Studios Complex, 2515 Essex Place #231, Cincinnati, OH 45206. Please RSVP to Marion, 513-368-1994 Free, but space is limited. There are over 100 studios at Essex so you need to call to get into the building.

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❤️

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“From whose womb comes the ice? Who gives birth to the frost from the heavens when the waters become hard as stone, when the surface of the deep is frozen?”

\nJob 38:29-30 NIV\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2016-01-08T02:30:44-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2016/01/08/snow.html", "tags": ["Travel","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/23/autumn.html", "title": "Autumn", "content_html": "\n
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God must delight in the change of seasons. Look at this...unbelievably beautiful! I'll bet he lines the angels up and says \"Watch this!\" Then He waves His arm across the land spreading red and gold and yellow across the world and they all applaud when we stop and take notice.

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TOW-Wanda had a \"Doctor\" appointment at the RV hospital in Columbus yesterday. Her water heater stopped working in Myrtle Beach. I went ahead and had her winterized while I was there. I've been taking things out of the cabinets. Some stuff is getting pitched. Some comes in the house with me. I'm not sure how I'm going to handle sleeping in the house. I'll try it but I've got mixed feelings. If money was no object, I would head South. But then I would miss all the really cool opportunities for hanging with my WV friends and going to hear live music.

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Honestly, the idea of voluntarily going without running water for the next five months, waking up with ice on the inside of the windows, and having to dispose of \"potty bags\" every week is seriously unappealing. I did it. I proved to myself how strong and capable I am. I'll just really miss my girl. I'll set her up as my \"she shed\"...a place I can go out to and pretend camp and take naps. That'll be good.

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❤️

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“Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.”

\nPsalm 39:4-5\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-23T01:30:49-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/23/autumn.html", "tags": ["Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/17/amazing-autumn.html", "title": "Amazing Autumn", "content_html": "\n
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What a glorious drive yesterday. We stayed in a KOA north of Charlotte. You can sure tell we have come up north...it's cold!!! But the colors became more vivid the farther we drove. There were a couple of things I would have liked to see but we didn't have the time. I've always wanted to go to Mt. Airy which is the town Mayberry was designed from. Also, I've always wanted to drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway. But, we needed to get checked into the state park campground in case it filled up for Bridge Day. I don't think we needed to worry because there are still plenty of spots open, probably because we are far enough away from the festivities.

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It's so beautiful here but c-o-l-d! It's supposed to go down to 27 tonight! These leaves won't last long after that. So today will be perfect!

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❤️

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“This was my situation: The heat consumed me in the daytime and the cold at night, and sleep fled from my eyes.”

\nGenesis 31:40\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-17T01:30:55-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/17/amazing-autumn.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/16/perfection.html", "title": "Perfection", "content_html": "\n
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There is nothing more perfect than a cloudless sky, the gentle whoosh of the waves at low tide an hour after sunrise...coffee in hand, and 74 degrees. It was as if the fish knew we were leaving and came out to put on a show. They were leaping in every direction...stingrays catching air like stealth bombers of the sea, little silver fish called \"spots\" splashing, and even a couple of small sharks arcing over the waves. After two weeks watching the unsuccessful fishermen on the shore, it was a delight to watch them pulling in fish after fish.

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It was really sad to leave the beach yesterday. I tried to justify staying longer but there are things that need attending to. I definitely want to be back by 10/23 for our class dinner and coffee with the Divas on the 24th. I need to winterize the trailer. You all will be pleased to know I will be sleeping indoors during the coldest winter months this year...WITH running water! It was quite an adventure last winter living in my camper at -25 wind chill and a foot and a half of snow but one I don't particularly care to repeat! I would like to escape to warmer weather in February, but we'll have to see how that works out.

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We stayed just north of Charlotte last night. It wasn't nearly as wonderful as going to sleep to the sound of the sea. Sigh. I'll just have to figure out a way to get back there. We're heading to cooler weather the next few days. Time to pull out the jeans, sweaters, and electric blankets. Our next stop is Bridge Days at The New River Gorge bridge in Fayetteville. Once a year, they close the bridge to traffic and you can walk out on it and watch crazy people bungee and BASE jump off of it!!! This ought to be exciting! Stay tuned for fabulous photos of the colors and sites.

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❤️

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“‘Bring me some game and prepare me some tasty food to eat, so that I may give you my blessing in the presence of the Lord before I die.’”

\nGenesis 27:7\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-16T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/16/perfection.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/15/goodbye-myrtle.html", "title": "Goodbye Myrtle", "content_html": "\n
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It's so hard to say goodbye after such an amazing trip! We squeezed every bit of fun out of the last two weeks that we possibly could. But the very best was time spent on the beach, contemplating the beauty of our surroundings and eating our way through the South. Y'all sure know how to show a girl a good time down here! Seafood is one of my all time favorites and it was absolutely wonderful.

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We stayed at Ocean Lakes Family Campground near Surfside Beach. It is literally a city unto itself. They keep the place immaculate and it runs like a well oiled machine. Security is ever present without being intrusive. You don't get into this place without a pass. Unless you walk up the beach. The beach sustained some damage from the storms the first week and maintenance was quick to repair it. I can't say enough good things about this place.

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Today we are off to...I don't know, someplace fun. We need to wean down on the fun thing or we'll crash when we get home. Of course, we DID spend our last evening doing laundry at the Soapy Suds Laundromat! That ought to help.

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❤️

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“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.”

\nHebrews 11:8\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-15T01:30:38-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/15/goodbye-myrtle.html", "tags": ["Travel","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/09/the-great-lockout.html", "title": "The Great Lockout 3", "content_html": "\n
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Who remembers \"The Great Lockouts, 1 & 2\"? Back in February or March, I got locked out of my trailer and had to break in through the storage compartment under the bed. After getting in, I went back out to put the stuff back in the compartment and when I tried to re-enter the door I had just come out of, it was still locked and I was back outside without the key. Everything came back out of the compartment and I broke in...again. Did I mention it was about 34 degrees? And raining?? Hard??? I said bad words.

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Guess who got locked out of the trailer yesterday? Ummmmmm....it wasn't me. But, in my friend's defense, she didn't know how touchy that lock is. And, this time it was a lovely 75 degrees in Myrtle Beach. Nothing makes you say bad words at the beach! We laughed. The people driving by on their golf carts laughed. My life is anything but boring!

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❤️

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“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”

\nPsalm 126:3\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-09T01:30:53-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/09/the-great-lockout.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Camping","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/03/weather-update.html", "title": "Weather Update", "content_html": "\n
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We were thrilled to have a break in the weather today. We're expecting more rain in the next 24-36 hours. It's really windy this evening. Once we get past this we should have clear, sunny skies for awhile. We are expecting friends to join us tomorrow so that will be fun! Little Jack is enjoying our walks on the beach and getting very brave in the waves. The beach is lovely, even in the rain

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❤️

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/03/weather-update.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Gratitude","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/10/01/ocean.html", "title": "Ocean", "content_html": "\n
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We arrived in Myrtle Beach around noon yesterday. The rain was threatening to hit and any of you who have a travel trailer understand all that is involved in setting up. First off is getting into your site and situating the trailer in the perfect spot. You need to check the level of your trailer and drive one side or the other up on a levelling block under one of the wheels. You put blocks called chocks in front of and behind the tires to keep the trailer stationary then it is safe to unhook the hitch. You unhook your safety chains, emergency brake release cord, and the power cord from the vehicle. (This was used for brakes and brake lights on the trailer as you travel.) You also have to remove the weight stabilization bars and the sway bar. Once that is all done, you finish levelling the trailer with the tongue jack. Then there are the utility hookups...water, electric, cable, sewer. Because I live in my camper, my tanks need emptied more frequently so that's always the first thing I do when I get set up. Rugs, chairs, table, grill, gas fireplace, propane, coolers, the dog run, canopy...all things that need to get set up when you arrive. All needing to be done pretty quickly before the rain settled in. My travel companion needed to walk her little dog because he spent much of the last two days in his crate as we traveled. She walked down to the beach and snapped this picture for me. I'll get down there soon. We are camped about nine trailers back from the water!

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I only slept two hours Tuesday night in the truck stop so with the long drive and messing with the camper, I was exhausted last night. Today will be a lay low, kick back day. Unfortunately we are having to keep a weather eye out on the skies. Hurricane Juaquin is going to affect us rain wise in the coming days. We'll know more by Sunday about when, where, and IF he makes landfall. This could be interesting....another adventure. One I don't care to experience if I can help it, thank you.

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❤️

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“Let the sea resound, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy;”

\nPsalm 98:7-8\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-10-01T01:30:46-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/10/01/ocean.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/30/fog.html", "title": "Fog", "content_html": "\n
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For miles there were signs flashing over the highway...\"Dense Fog Ahead - Reduce Speed According To Weather\". As we climbed the mountain, the heavens opened and the wipers couldn't keep up. I couldn't figure out which was worse...pulling off the side of the road and risk being hit or ride along as best I could keeping the truck in front of me in my view. At least if I kept a safe distance from his flashing tail lights, I could be pretty sure we'd be safe.

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Sometimes life is like that drive over the mountain. Scary, unpredictable, stormy...like driving blindfolded. Yesterday, my friend was an excellent co-pilot keeping a close eye out for hazards coming up, watching the GPS, the road atlas, and the Weather Channel simultaneously. As we drove over that scary mountain, we talked about God. We talked about seeing the blessings He brings us in our day to day lives...recognizing the littlest things like a choice parking spot or a storm holding off till you are under shelter. We are so quick to seek His assistance when things run amok. But we tend to forget to thank Him for the sunshine and that good parking spot. Let me tell you, we were both grateful to pull off the road for the night at 7:30. And we each thanked Him for getting us there safely.

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❤️❤️

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“then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and olive oil. I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied.”

\nDeuteronomy 11:14-15\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-30T01:30:27-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/30/fog.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/29/almost-heaven.html", "title": "Almost Heaven!", "content_html": "\n
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Ahhhhhh....this is exactly what I've been waiting for. Camping in the dense woods of West Virginia. We are a little too early in the season for the good colors. I'm thinking it'll be better next week on our way back through. I love the sound of the wind in the trees and the varied wildlife in the area. We stopped today at Tamarack, a beautiful building featuring gorgeous items handcrafted by some of the best artisans of our fair state. We ate in their restaurant....fried green tomato sandwiches! Yummmm! We headed back on the road and stopped for the night in Little Beaver State Park not far from Beckley.

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Our goal is to drive over to New River Gorge this morning. The road down into the gorge is far too steep to take TOW-Wanda, so we unhooked last night before dark and we'll be ready. We'll decide today where we want to camp next. This is one of the best things about traveling a girlfriend. She and I both have the same sense of adventure and spontaneity. It's fun having company to share the experience, she's a good navigator, and we can split the expenses making it much more affordable. We get along great and we know each other well enough we can tell the other when we need a break without hurt feelings.

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Day one done. What's next?

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❤️

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“The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.”

\nGenesis 2:9\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-29T01:30:17-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/29/almost-heaven.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/28/bohemian.html", "title": "Bohemian", "content_html": "\n
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I have a gal pal that I hang out with a lot. We enjoy traveling together because we like the same things, we get along well, and what one doesn't think of to get into, the other one does. OMGosh! If we would have been real life sisters, our mom wouldn't have stood a chance. It's probably a good thing we DIDN'T know each other growing up...it could have been trouble. Then again, I'll bet anything my life would have been different!

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We've been planning a trip to Myrtle Beach for months. And now that it's getting close to going, we can't stand to wait so we're leaving early. It started out one day early. Then three. And now, it's five! Oh heck, we're leaving today instead of Friday. Cannot wait because there is nothing like pulling out on the open road, your house tagging right along behind you, a full tank of gas, a cup of coffee, a road map, and a partner in crime. With absolutely no schedule!

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Yep, this is my life! I'll send you postcards!!!

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❤️

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“My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.”

\nPsalm 45:1\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-28T01:30:29-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/28/bohemian.html", "tags": ["Camping","Fun","Choices","Be Joyful!","Road Trip","Friends"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/20/more-from-the-country-living.html", "title": "More from the Country Living Fair", "content_html": "\n
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    \n
  • \"\"
    Antiques!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Americana!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Apples!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Tiffany & Lori!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Dashing Diner!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Happy Camper!
    • \n
  • \"\"
    Country Living Magazine!
    • \n
\n\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-20T01:30:36-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/20/more-from-the-country-living.html", "tags": ["Fun","Girl Camper","Girl Campers","Road Trip","Country Living Fair","Crafts"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/04/magic.html", "title": "Magic", "content_html": "\n
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After a 12 hour drive, I finally reached my perch overlooking the Ohio River. I would never have driven that long if it hadn't been for my traveling companion driving behind me and pushing me along. I think I played every song on my playlist! The river is so peaceful and beautiful...it makes me want to cry. Or maybe I'm just too tired. Either way, I am happy to be here and certainly happy to be out of that truck.

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Thank you God for travel mercies.

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❤️

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-04T01:30:25-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/04/magic.html", "tags": ["Faith","West Virginia","Gratitude","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/09/03/listen.html", "title": "Listen", "content_html": "\n
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When I travel anymore, I don't usually make reservations. I prefer to listen and go where I'm told. Yesterday was a long day of driving, battling gusty winds through the breadbasket of America. When the light began to change in the west, I started listening to my heart. I was watching for signs for RV parks, but we were way out in open, rolling farmland with few commercial venues. My eye kept being drawn off to the right when I suddenly heard that faint whisper...\"Go there!\"

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A mile from the highway was a small sign that read Lake Storey Campground. We pulled in, got an electric only site for $14, hooked up, and had leftovers from lunch. The sky was turning pink when I told my travel buddy I thought there was a lake nearby. We walked down a gravel path through a canopy of trees when suddenly there was a clearing and...BAM! God started showing off! We caught the most gorgeous sunset ever...all because I listened.

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Where does that voice take you?

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❤️

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\"At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them.\"

\nLuke 4:4\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-09-03T01:30:29-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/09/03/listen.html", "tags": ["Faith","Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/08/02/memories.html", "title": "Memories", "content_html": "\n
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Making memories...it's what we do every day, whether we mean to or not. Sometimes we have choices and we can make beautiful memories intentionally. Yesterday was one of those days. As a matter of fact, this whole week will hopefully be filled with wonderful memories that my grandchildren will tell their kids about. We're off to a pretty good start.

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After a very long five hour drive, we got our campsite set up. We had a little quiet time then headed to Carbondale for dinner at a traditional '50s style diner. The kids really enjoyed that. After dinner, we went to Redstone and met two of their seven grandparents for live music and dancing. I love blended families when they work together with love for the kids and grandkids...and for each other. We all sat together and loved on the kids and visited. What a wonderful example for the children. I'm very proud of us.

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While we sat and listened to music, my older grand daughter and I made lanyards. Who remembers camp and all the great arts and crafts you did? Well, this is Camp TOW-Wanda! We have coloring books and colored pencils, pipe cleaners, friendship bracelets, Minions Monopoly, fishing, boating, hiking, campfires, s'mores, weenie roasts, swimming, adventure park rides, horseback riding, and a rodeo to do by the time we head home on Thursday. Then....shhhhhh, don't tell the kids, but we're all going to see Kelly Clarkson and Pentatonix in concert Thursday night!

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Does Nana know how to plan a camping trip or what????

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❤️

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\"So Abram said to Lot, “Let’s not have any quarreling between you and me, or between your herders and mine, for we are close relatives.\"

\nGenesis 13:8\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-08-02T01:30:33-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/08/02/memories.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Family","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","Fun","Wisdom","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/07/15/sweet-coloradough.html", "title": "Sweet ColoraDOUGH!", "content_html": "\n
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Lisa sparkles. She is my mentor in the happy wanderer department. Young enough to be my daughter, she is actually one of my Sisters…Sisters on the Fly, that is. When I first met her, she was who I knew I wanted to be when I grew up. She can make the BEST Cream of Mushroom Soup in a Dutch oven. She can dance till the sun comes up. She can walk into a roomful of strangers and have them eating out of her hand in five minutes. She has a smile that melts your heart and you want to be her best friend forever. She never treated me any different just because I was new at camping, new at being a Sister, new at being alone. She is brighter than the sun!

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Lisa has a passion for many things in life, but the independent coffee shop owner is who she chooses to champion. In these days of posh, shiny, impersonal coffee shops that spring up overnight on every street corner, Lisa holds the \"little guys\" close to her heart and wants you to know where you can find them so you too can support them…keeping their doors open in a tough economy. She wants you to know their stories. What made them decide to open a coffee shop? Was there someone in their lives that encouraged them to go for that dream? Where do they get their coffee? Do they offer anything other than the \"Elixir of the Gods\"? What do they want their customers to come away with when they leave their establishment? How do they give back to the world? There are as many stories out there as there are coffee shops, and I'm one of her minions heading out there to sacrifice myself to the caffeine and sugar rush just to find out the skinny and report it on her blog. I'll be posting a coffeehouse review once a month and I'll leave you a link here so you can read it and find these treasured places.

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The Local Coffee House Finder is online and you can search on your phone to find these these locally owned gems as you travel the highways and byways of America. Heck, there might be some in your own backyard you weren't aware of. So get out there and drink up. And if you don't drink coffee….well, even though I don't understand you, I'll love you anyway and offer you a nice cup of tea!

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❤

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Read all about Sweet ColoraDOUGH here...a locally owned coffee and donut shop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

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\"A kindhearted woman gains honor, but ruthless men gain only wealth.\"

\nProverbs 11:16\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-07-15T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/07/15/sweet-coloradough.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Travel","Uplifting Stories","Fun","Road Trip","Uncategorized"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/07/14/towwanda-grande.html", "title": "TOW-Wanda Grande", "content_html": "\n
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I've had the big trailer for 9 months now. She's 29'5\" from the hitch to the spare tire on the back. That's long when you're used to 16'. Add the truck and I'm a good 42' long with a topper and a kayak. I'm definitely haulin'!

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This life isn't for everybody. I've had women drop their jaw when they learn I live full time in this thing. Most men want to give me a high five. I tried explaining to someone how I don't like sleeping inside houses now because they make me feel claustrophobic. It's not the SIZE…it's the idea of being cooped up in one spot. I feel sorry for people whose views never change. They don't know the joy of taking off on vacation and packing everything you own. You literally have everything you need right behind you. I love traveling and pulling over at lunch time to fix something to eat, stretching out for a little siesta, then heading back out on the open road.

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I am a vagabond. A meanderer. I live a bohemian life. But I am a realist. There are a few drawbacks to living like this. Gas isn't cheap so if you can spend long stretches of time in one spot it sure helps the budget. This reduces the wear and tear on both your vehicle and your camper. There's not a ton of storage so I have a rule…if something comes in, something else has to go out. The sinks and countertops and stovetop are lower than those in a conventional sticks and bricks home and believe it or not, that discourages me from cooking sometimes. It's just awkward. The wastewater tanks have to be emptied when you're dry docked, as I am a good portion of the time. That means hooking this monstrosity up and hauling it across town to the nearest RV dump. And, because it's so big and hooking up is such a chore, I am far less likely to take off and go on a spontaneous adventure.

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That being said…it's mine. I own it, lock stock and memory foam mattress and the security of that alone makes everything else worthwhile. Yes, I love my life…my little house on wheels.

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God Bless this Trailer Home!

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❤

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\"By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.\"

\nHebrews 11:9-10\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-07-14T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/07/14/towwanda-grande.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Gratitude","goRVing","Downsizing","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/07/03/adventurers.html", "title": "Adventurers!", "content_html": "\n
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I absolutely surprised the heck out of myself this trip. I haven't slept in a tent in 35 years and even then it wasn't a terribly successful endeavor. It was with Hubby #2, it was late June, and we were setting up a little two man tent in the snow on Wolf Creek Pass. I blew up two little air mattresses that I insisted on having only to stick a fork in one and proclaim that one as HIS. It was cold, we had poor equipment, and I did not have fun. Along about 11:00 when I was praying I'd fall asleep, a car pulled up and turned off the engine and lights. No doors opening and closing. No sound at all. I got brave enough to look out and in was a small motor home. I informed hubby #2 if he ever wanted to get me alone in the woods again, it would be in one of those. We never got alone in the woods again.

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So, tent camping left a bad taste in my mouth and I've sworn I would never do it again. Then my truck broke down. And a tent seemed like a viable, albeit TENTATIVE solution. Voila! Little did I know I'd love it! Now, instead of changing the whole living situation and getting two smaller campers…I think I'll just invest in a little higher quality sleeping bag and a couple more comfort things and take off with my tent anytime the urge strikes me! Win-Win!!!!!

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❤

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\n

\"By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise.\"

\nHebrews 11:9\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-07-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/07/03/adventurers.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Camping","Be Joyful!","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/29/serenity.html", "title": "Serenity", "content_html": "\n
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This was my view last night as I sat on the patio visiting with my friends. This is such a magical place. I've posted from here many times and its beauty never ceases to amaze me. The mountain you see in the distance is Mesa Verde, home of the Ancient Ones…the Cliff Dwellers. There's good energy here. But alas…it was just a short stay this time as I head out on the road again today. Not at all sure where I'm heading. Footloose and fancy free…that's me!

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Sue and I had some good discussions about my book this weekend which will involve some revisions but will make it even better. I'm looking forward to getting this done.

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I'll send pics of the sights today.

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❤

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\"He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to go down.\"

\nPsalm 104:19\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/29/serenity.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","The Grand Adventure","Gratitude","Peaceful Moments","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/28/tent-camping.html", "title": "Tent Camping", "content_html": "\n
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Ok, it's probably been 35 years since I slept in a tent. It was quite the adventure. In all actuality, I slept fairly well. I made sure the food was locked up in the car and I slept with my gun within reach, especially since the camp host said there are bears there regularly. I woke up once during the night to use the facilities and it was a bright enough moon to see so I wasn't worried. The lady in the campsite next to me just marveled that I camp alone. Gosh, it wasn't like I was alone. The campground I stayed at had eight loops so there were plenty of people there.

\n\n\n

It was a really long day though. I was up early and made it to Montrose in time to meet one of our fellow Ranchers for lunch. I was thinking of stopping at Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgeway but by the time I got there it was 93 degrees. I just could not make myself go in. I did stop in Ouray at Mouse's Chocolates…my all time favorite candy store. Then I hightailed it to Durango to take the yoga class my friend teaches. Afterwards we had dinner then came to her house. I saw some incredible scenery driving through the mountains today. God's country!

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❤

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\n

\"He wraps up the waters in his clouds, yet the clouds do not burst under their weight.\"

\nJob 26:8\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-28T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/28/tent-camping.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Travel","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/26/exhausted.html", "title": "Exhausted", "content_html": "\n
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\n\n\n

It took me 12 hours but I finally got here! What a day!

\n\n\n

I need to give this a lot of thought. I'm beginning to wonder if this trailer is just way too big. It's not that I can't handle a rig this size. Pulling and parking aren't a problem. But I can't be ruining a vehicle by towing this behemoth. I've missed little TOW-Wanda almost from the get go. I bought the big one with the idea it would be parked on the farm and remain fairly stationary. The little trailer was so easy to just up and go somewhere. I am finding myself far less inclined to take off and camp for a weekend when it means hauling this 'house' around. I could sell it and buy two smaller trailers. One for CO and one for WV. That way I wouldn't have to drag it across the country. Or just one that better fits my needs. I don't know…it's just something I'm giving thought to. I swear, at this rate I'm going to own my bike, my kayak, and a duffle bag!

\n\n\n

❤

\n\n\n
\n

\"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.\"

\nProverbs 13:12\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-26T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/26/exhausted.html", "tags": ["Colorado","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Choices","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/25/git-yer-motor-runninhead-out.html", "title": "Git Yer Motor Runnin'…Head Out on the Highway!", "content_html": "\n
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\n\n\n

Oh, how I love a road trip! There's always so much to do to prepare though. It was SO hot and muggy yesterday. I had no choice but to empty the back of the truck and take the heavy items into the garage where I am staying. I'll go through it all when I get back. Most of the weight comes from my tools for jewelry making. When I get back from this trip, I should have some time to make some jewelry.

\n\n\n

We had a terrible storm in Denver right at rush hour with funnel clouds, golf ball sized hail, and flash floods but, thank God, it skirted around us. That is my biggest fear living in my camper. I'm praying for good travel weather as I leave today.

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I don't know what kind of cell service or wifi I will have in the next week so my posts may be sporadic. I'll write as I can and post pictures of the beauty of Colorado in the summer. Take care and I'll see you soon!

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❤

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\n

\"Whenever the ark set out, Moses said, “Rise up, Lord! May your enemies be scattered; may your foes flee before you.” Whenever it came to rest, he said, “Return, Lord, to the countless thousands of Israel.”

\nNumbers 10:35-36\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-25T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/25/git-yer-motor-runninhead-out.html", "tags": ["Colorado","Camping","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/24/getting-ready-to-roll.html", "title": "Getting Ready to Roll!", "content_html": "\n
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After a quick trip to the mountains this past weekend for Strawberry Days, I am preparing to hit the road for my mid-summer break. I got the cover on my kayak to protect it from the sun. It will be stored on my truck most of the time anyway so I needed to protect it since UV light kills kayaks. Next, I need to get a bunch of the stuff out of the back of the truck and reduce my load. I'll be heading out Thursday. I'll be going back through Glenwood to Ridgeway then over the Dallas Divide to Durango for a few days. I'll be camping there with one of my dearest friends with a dual goal in mind…catching up and discussing my book. It's time to get it published and move on to the next thing. Now that I have the majority of my downsizing out of the way, I have more free time to devote to writing and redeveloping my web presence. But first….some much needed R&R. Just peace, and quiet, and water, and a good book. Maybe a little fishing. Sigh.

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I did something SO fun yesterday! I got a private message from one of our fellow \"Ranchers\" last week asking me if I would be interested in meeting her for coffee. Since she lives near IKEA, and I needed to return something there, we met in the cafeteria and visited for two hours. It was not only fun, it was touching and oh so humbling to know this gal has been reading my blog for TWO YEARS! Thank you for the invite, Konnie…I had a blast!

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❤

\n\n\n
\n

\"Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’ ” Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.\"

\n1 Samuel 20:42\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-24T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/24/getting-ready-to-roll.html", "tags": ["Colorado","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/19/strawberry-days.html", "title": "Strawberry Days", "content_html": "\n
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The Roaring Fork Valley on the Western Slope of Colorado used to be a huge strawberry producer. Over a century ago, the luscious fruit was celebrated with the first annual Strawberry Days Festival…the longest running festival in Colorado. Actually, in those days, people were so spread out, they would celebrate anything just to have an excuse to get together. Hence, there is the Dandelion Festival, Potato Days, Burning Mountain Days, etc. Strawberry Days runs the third full weekend of June. There will be food and arts & crafts booths, live music, children's programs, a parade, free strawberries and ice cream, a Miss Strawberry Days Scholarship Pageant….you know, the quintessential small town summer festival. And, I'm going! It will be an excellent opportunity to see tons of my friends without running around all over to visit here and there. I get to visit with my brother so I'm really super excited about that. And I'll be leaving TOW-Wanda at home and staying with my \"parents by choice\". They stood up for me at our wedding after my mother had passed away and my father was in a nursing home. I'll take my bike with me and tool around town. It's going to be so much fun!

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I had a lunch meeting yesterday with my good friend, Lisa. She has developed an app that helps you find a local coffee shop. There are no chains listed as this is only for small mom & pop shops. Great app! You can download it in the Apple Store. Just look for The Local Coffee House Guide. I will be blogging for her at least once a month, reviewing and introducing you to a new coffee shop. I'm excited to do this for many reasons. I love the idea of supporting local business owners, I love coffee, I can do this as I travel, and…I adore Lisa! She has a true gypsy spirit. She's also a Sister on the Fly and we help our Sisters whenever we can! My first interview/blog will be with SWEET COLORADOUGH​…a local bakery/coffee shop with really GREAT COFFEE and the BEST. DONUTS. EVER!!! I can't wait!

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❤

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\n

\"Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.\"

\nGenesis 1:11-13\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-19T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/19/strawberry-days.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/03/moonrise.html", "title": "Moonrise", "content_html": "\n
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Too bad this photo doesn't do last night's moonrise justice but I had to take it with my cell phone. My good camera is under the couch in the back of the camper and just wasn't accessible. It was a beauty!

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I stayed the night near Columbia, Missouri last night. I'll probably shoot for western Kansas tomorrow night to avoid severe storms predicted for tomorrow evening then slide on into Denver Thursday. I've been amazed how light the truck traffic has been but wait till tomorrow. It's always bad in Kansas. Things are going smoothly. I took a break midway to see the Lincoln family cabin. Tourist services told me how to get there. It was about 20 miles off the highway. When I got there it was closed which was disappointing. I got back on the highway and just kept on going.

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Feeling good, the truck and trailer are operating well, gas is a full dollar cheaper than when I came out in October and I'm getting one whole mile per gallon more than the last trip across country. My iTunes is keeping me occupied and the occasional phone call. Life is sweet!

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❤

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\n

\"Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach, for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.\"

\nProverbs 22:17-18\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-03T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/03/moonrise.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/02/good-morning-from-indiana.html", "title": "Good Morning from Indiana!", "content_html": "\n
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I didn't sleep well Sunday night. Most people left the campground right after the music was over, but several stayed and some people took advantage of the empty field and drove ATVs around all night. So, needless to say, I slept sporadically.

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I was going to stay overnight last night with my friend in Troy, Ohio but she has been blessed with a ton of real estate business so I'll visit with her on my way back. I drove till 2:00 in the afternoon then pulled into a rest area for a 2 hour nap. I drove for another couple of hours before stopping for the night. As I have done in the past, I won't be revealing exactly where I am each day. This is to appease my safety conscious family and friends. But it's a very nice, clean, quiet, safe RV Resort just off the interstate. My adventure of the day was a yucky one. My black water tank was full and unfortunately was clogged so emptying it was a yucky chore. But I got it done. Thank God for the shower in this camper!

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I love to drive. I do some of my best thinking while I'm driving. One of my dearest friends asked me last night how it feels to be traveling alone again. I had so much company in the last few months that I was seldom really off by myself. And it's interesting. It's different this time. Not boring. Not really lonely. But I feel room in my life and in my heart. Not an emptiness like I felt before. Not an urgency to replace something I've lost to fill up that void either. No, this is different. I feel a space opening up in me. A place of peace…of ease…of calm. Like the soothing flow of a river after making it through rough water. I'm not sure what this is yet or what it means, but it feels good.

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❤

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\n

\"I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.\"

\nEzekiel 36:26\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-02T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/02/good-morning-from-indiana.html", "tags": ["Travel","Positive Energy","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Comfort","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/06/01/peace-love-rock-roll.html", "title": "Peace. Love. Rock \u0026 Roll!", "content_html": "\n
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\n\n\n

Ok…that was just about the most fun weekend I've ever had. I know, I say that a lot but this was quite the experience. I took this panorama of the campground to give you some idea how huge this place was. Yesterday's music was awesome! Merle Haggard was the headliner and wrapped up the weekend. He did a great job. But, for me, the highlight was Brandi Carlile! OMGosh, she put on an absolutely amazing performance. And I came away with a new group that I'm looking forward to following…Elephant Revival. They are a Colorado based band and the lead vocalist is fabulous. Unfortunately, the two days they perform in Colorado this year are days I'm already booked.

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I feel so energized by this experience. There was such a good energy here. Everyone got along. Friendships were formed. I made new friends. I learned new music. It was peaceful. It was full of love and cooperation. I didn't see a single negative thing. The place was kept clean. A full 95% of the trash generated is being recycled! 95%! That is absolutely amazing!

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Everywhere I go I meet the most interesting and beautiful people. Tonga was a joy and she's connecting me with this really cool earth mother in Colorado. The guy in the coffee shop has read Marshmallow Ranch! I let the girls camping next to us use my power strip to charge their phones. They left us a gift of bread from the Farmer's Market.

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I'm so happy I don't watch TV or the news because my world is a beautiful place!

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❤

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\"“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.”

\nMark 9:50\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-06-01T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/06/01/peace-love-rock-roll.html", "tags": ["Uplifting Stories","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Peace","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/05/30/tent-city.html", "title": "Tent City", "content_html": "\n
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\n\n\n

This is amazing. Every day more people come and squeeze into any available space in the campground. I've never seen anything like it! I hope to get a panoramic view of the field tomorrow. Thank GOD it hasn't rained. This field isn't referred to as \"Mudville\" for nothing! We were brilliant…we selected the family camping area so it is really quiet. At least it is right now because the late show is still going on.

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I'm sitting outside my \"home\" as I write this. I'm trying to imagine. What if this was how we all HAD to live? Crammed together in a field. People living in makeshift tents, screen rooms, old buses and vans. Large, energy guzzling RVs and travel trailers like mine. What if this was our real home? Water and food would soon become an issue. As would sanitation. Rains would turn this lovely new-mown hay field into a boggy quagmire. Tempers would soon flair. The sense of peace and love and community created by the joint intention of the gathering would soon be lost…given away to fear and greed and envy. Fight or flight. You see it in third world countries every day. I experienced it in the jungles of Mexico many years ago.

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As I'm sitting here, I look at my \"home\" and I'm filled with humble gratitude. I am positively affluent! I have a clean, safe place to live. I am free to live wherever I choose. I am so very grateful for everything God has blessed me with. Truly.

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❤

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\n

\"Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy.\"

\nPsalm 47:1\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-05-30T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/05/30/tent-city.html", "tags": ["Travel","Overcoming Obstacles","Strong Women","Hope","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Gratitude","Courage","Peaceful Moments","Downsizing","Choices","Change","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/05/29/andit-begins.html", "title": "And...it Begins!", "content_html": "\n
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What a treasure it is to gather with a large variety of humans seeking the same goal. Four days of peace, music, and fun in the sun! The vibe is good...mellow. Reminiscent of the early outdoor concerts of the '60s. Aging hippies getting their groove on. Middle aged couples trying to recover a part of the dream. Days when they were filled with love and promise. Days before the pressures of life took away their ability to play. So here, they don their tie dye and walk barefoot, holding hands with hopeful love. And with the right portion of sun, sound, and sensual dancing, sparks are igniting the embers of a long, too cold winter. And it's summer!!! Young people smelling like patchouli and herbal refreshments, dreads, flowing gauzy skirts dancing with that sheer freedom youth allows. Little ones running around blowing bubbles and chasing balloons.

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A music festival thrusts you into a melting pot of humanity. It is an excellent opportunity to throw off that coat of conformity and allow you to fly...to allow you to be YOU!

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It just doesn't get much better than that. Celebrate life!

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❤

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\"David and all Israel were celebrating with all their might before the Lord, with castanets, harps, lyres, timbrels, sistrums and cymbals.\"

\n2 Samuel 6:5\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-05-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/05/29/andit-begins.html", "tags": ["Uplifting Stories","Strong Women","Positive Energy","Camping","Fun","Aging","Presence","Peaceful Moments","Be Joyful!","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/05/28/live-the-life.html", "title": "Live the Life", "content_html": "\n
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Well, the sun has set on this chapter of my Grand Adventure. For those of you who are relatively new, here's a recap. Husband died, sold the house, bought a trailer, gave everything away, moved to West Virginia to take care of Aunt, didn't work out, house sat for six weeks, lived in my camper on the banks of the Ohio River during the worst winter WV has seen in many years (without running water!), listened to tons of live music, renewed friendships and made lots of new ones, bought a bike and a kayak, downsized even more, and now I'm heading for the Nelsonville Music Festival then back to Colorado for the summer. Whew…I'm exhausted just thinking about it!

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This was an expensive lesson I learned here. I paid to move things here. If I would have known the time with my aunt was going to be so short, I would have done things differently. I think the biggest take away is to never make assumptions. Always communicate your needs and desires clearly and listen to the spoken and unspoken words of others. Don't put all your eggs in one basket…have a contingency plan. Forgive. Nurture relationships. Appreciate your surroundings. Pray…a lot! And remember Who guides you through this wilderness.

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I ran errands all day yesterday, but the most satisfying thing happened at dusk. I fit the last thing into the back of the pickup truck like the last piece of a puzzle. There's no more room…but I own nothing else so it really doesn't matter. To stand back and look at my handiwork was gratifying. To stand back and marvel that every single thing I own is resting on eight wheels was pretty humbling. Well, minus the items stored in my friend's basement but I'll be going through those in the fall and getting rid of more.

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I did it! I simplified my life. Now, the only thing left is to LIVE it. Wanna come along???

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❤

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\n

\"My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.\"

\nPsalm 131:1-2\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-05-28T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/05/28/live-the-life.html", "tags": ["Travel","Uplifting Stories","Overcoming Obstacles","Strong Women","Positive Energy","TOW-Wanda!","The Grand Adventure","Wisdom","Downsizing","Widow","Road Trip","Starting Over"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/05/27/morning-has-broken.html", "title": "Morning Has Broken", "content_html": "\n
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One more day! My friends and I hit the road tomorrow for the Nelsonville Music Festival. I'm really excited…now. Yesterday morning? Not so much. Yesterday I was overwhelmed. I had a list a mile long. I knew I needed to go out to the farm for at least one, probably two loads. I have taken several loads to the local mission. I've donated to the church resale shop. I've taken four loads to family members. A friend is keeping a couple of paintings for me as well as Mr. Virgo's wall clock. I took at least five or six truck loads to another friend for storage. I'm so grateful they have the room and offered to help me out. So, I was faced with two trips out to the farm, a couple loads of laundry, and the list.

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The festival will be hot and crowded. I had a picture in my mind of campers crammed together like sardines with no method of escape. Three things that have bothered me in the past…heat, crowds, no escape. Then, on top of that, I need to be fresh to head west on Monday. Too much. Too, too much. I woke up at 4:00, overheated and queasy. I promptly texted my friend and said I couldn't go. I just wanted to hit the road. And in true friend fashion, she said…well, I can't post what she said. *grin* Suffice it to say, she did what we always do to each other. She virtually grabbed me by the scruff of the neck and said, \"Cut it out!\"

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She was right, of course. I was feeling overwhelmed and trying to unburden myself with one of three missions coming up. I couldn't let go of the stuff at the farm. It had to be moved, no question. I couldn't let go of Colorado. I need to see my babies. So the only thing to let go of was the music festival…something I've looked forward to for five months. When your head is spinning with worry, you can get stuck there, spinning forever like a forgotten 45. Fortunately for me, I have friends who won't let me get by with that crap. I love them for that.

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What totally turned my head around was when my friend said… \"Nelsonville is not your enemy. Anxiety is!\" Bam! I snapped right out of it. It's amazing what the mind can do to you.

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And now? Everything is off the farm!!! Downsized even further, yet it will be pruned further still in the fall. Now I'm looking at Nelsonville as my reward…and I can't wait! Today I have a zillion things to do before we leave tomorrow. Once I get to the music festival, I'm going to kick back and chill for four days!!! Yes!!!

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❤

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\n

\"“Have you ever given orders to the morning, or shown the dawn its place, that it might take the earth by the edges and shake the wicked out of it?\"

\nJob 38:12-13\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-05-27T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/05/27/morning-has-broken.html", "tags": ["Overcoming Obstacles","Positive Energy","Wisdom","Fear","Courage","Choices","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/05/02/views-of-my-day-rivers.html", "title": "Views of My Day: Rivers, Hills, \u0026 Candy", "content_html": "\n
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Big tugboat pushing 15 barges upriver.

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This has been a busy and really FAST couple of weeks! The trip to Tennessee and bookend stayovers in Kentucky took me to Tuesday. Thursday was a quick overnight to the other side of the state. I no sooner got back into town late yesterday afternoon when the phone started ringing. Drinks and apps with one friend, several phone calls when I got home, then a later dinner with another group of friends. I have never socialized as much in my life as I have here in WV. I have met some of the nicest people and reconnected with friends from high school that I hadn't seen in years.

\n\n\n

One of the most difficult things a widow often faces is loneliness. So often, our spouse is our best friend and we don't kindle new friendships or nurture old ones because our time is taken up by our relationship. I always had this deep, nearly unrecognized feeling that I wouldn't have Mr. Virgo very long so I spent every moment with him. Consequently, I found myself having to build a social network when he was gone by reconnecting with old friends and meeting new ones. Fortunately, I have no trouble making friends. My youngest says I could talk to a tree.

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If you have trouble finding friends, think of something you enjoy doing...riding bikes, kayaking, walking, gardening, to name just a few...and join a club. Ask at church. Take a class. Don't be afraid to start a conversation. I met the gal I had dinner with last night at a vendor/craft show last November when I was visiting my cousin. We just hit it off right away and bonded. I've made great friends through Facebook. One of my friends grew up a block from me but I never met her till last year when I was driving cross country. She was following my journey through a mutual friend. Patti and Carol and Vicky were either Sisters on the Fly or Marshmallow Ranch followers. I can't stress enough the importance of finding your tribe. I don't want to grow old alone. I want lots of people in my world. It makes life interesting.

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❤

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\n

\"The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.\"

\nProverbs 14:1\n
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Stern wheeler - Valley Gem out on a party cruise.

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River traffic.

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Germany Valley, WV

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The Elusive Potato Fondant. Found in the general store at Seneca Rocks on Thursday.

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One of the many faces of the river.

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-05-02T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/05/02/views-of-my-day-rivers.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","West Virginia","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/29/nashville-country-living-fair.html", "title": "Nashville Country Living Fair", "content_html": "\n
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Co-Owners of Woodstock Antiques and Consignments

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Country décor...just my style!

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More décor...

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More décor...

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More décor...

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More décor...

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More décor...It was a wonderful experience, this trip!

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-29T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/29/nashville-country-living-fair.html", "tags": ["Travel","Fun","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/28/cedars-of-lebanon-state-park.html", "title": "Cedars of Lebanon State Park", "content_html": "\n
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TOW-Wanda Grande and Free-da!

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Ginny!

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Last night's campfire.

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Ernest Tubbs Recording Studio and Record Shop

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Great neon sign in Nashville!

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Cute little trailer converted into a food cart.

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Savannah Candy Company

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-28T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/28/cedars-of-lebanon-state-park.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","Fun","Road Trip","Country Living Fair"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/27/sisters-and.html", "title": "Sisters #1 and #2", "content_html": "\n
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Well, this was a really fun week and hard to believe we're heading out on the road already. We'll stay in Kentucky tonight then on home tomorrow.

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We got to spend time with Maurrie and Becky…the original Sisters, of Sisters on the Fly. They are the greatest girls and I'm proud to be their Sister.

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I was interviewed yesterday for a story about brave girl campers. What an honor! I'll share it with you when it's been published. There may be an opportunity coming up that I'll let you in on once the details are worked out. Not to be cryptic, but I don't want to jinx anything. ;-)

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A good time was had by all! I'll post more photos of the fair when I get home!

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❤ y'all!

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\"We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.\"

\n1 Thessalonians 2:6\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-27T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/27/sisters-and.html", "tags": ["Travel","Sisters on the Fly","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Road Trip","Memories","Country Living Fair"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/25/my-travel-buddys-trailer.html", "title": "My Travel Buddy's Trailer", "content_html": "\n
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Wow, what a day! Slow start then headed to the Country Living Fair. I didn't find anything for decorating my camper. I did, however, find a cute little summer dress. :-)

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We've walked a hundred miles today! Ok, maybe not a hundred, but a lot! We're heading back to the park to prepare for the party tonight. BBQ and live music! Yeehaw!!!

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-25T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/25/my-travel-buddys-trailer.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Road Trip","Country Living Fair"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/22/road-trip.html", "title": "Road Trip", "content_html": "\n
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My travel friend picked this place to camp the first night. She did good…it's beautiful! A little over halfway to Nashville!!!

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\"TOW-Wanda Grande\" and \"Crackin' Rosie\"! Travel buddies!

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Mmmmm…sautéed garlic mushrooms on veggie burgers with melted Brie. Divine!

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They are preparing for the Rolex Race this weekend.

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My travel buddy this trip.

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We rode our bikes around the complex a little to stretch our legs.

\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-22T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/22/road-trip.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","The Grand Adventure","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2015/04/20/the-grand-adventure.html", "title": "The Grand Adventure", "content_html": "\n
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The summer after Mr. Virgo died, I began what I referred to as \"The Grand Adventure\". Not only was I going out in the world to do and see things I had never experienced before, I was also doing it all alone…for the first time in my life. I had taken respite weekends before, but nothing like I was about to face. It was daunting and exhilarating, melancholic and joyful. It was a time of many violent shifts in my psyche, my mood, my thinking. I wasn't at all sure I could DO it…period. Let alone, do it alone. But I knew I needed to. I needed to take the first step down the path or I would never make it through the valley of death that is grief.

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After buying Little TOW-Wanda and getting some obligations taken care of, I took off for the hills. I circled Colorado twice in three months and then took my oldest daughter and her family to see Mt. Rushmore. Those months alone on the road were exactly what I needed. I connected with my broken heart. I allowed myself the gut-wrenching sobs that come with that kind of pain. I explored places inside me that had never seen the light of day. It was cathartic and exhausting and allowed me to crawl out of the wreckage…at least the initial crash.

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Grief is a crazy thing. It transforms you in ways you never, ever considered. And, as uncomfortable and painful as it is, it's an easy place to stay. It's much easier to pull the covers over your head and to be excused by society with \"Oh, poor dear…she lost her husband, don't you know.\" Complicated grief is an actual diagnosis. Every grief is different. Each person walks his/her own path. As incredible as it may seem, you can get too comfortable in your pain when moving through it seems insurmountable. After all, who looks at a fire and says \"Oh, yeah! I can walk through that!\" Especially when you can't see the other side. The thing is, there are pockets of sweetness along the path that you'll never know are there until you stumble upon them in the flames. And these sweet spots are SO worth the journey.

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The Grand Adventure, Part 2 saw me selling my house, drastically downsizing, and reincarnating my little 16' camper into TOW-Wanda Grande, the behemoth \"Porta Party\" that I call home. My first stop has been WV, beloved home of my youth. And, if you've been following along this whole time, you'll know the initial intent was to care for an elderly aunt on the family farm but that ended at Christmas. It's very sad that the relationship has been permanently damaged, I'm afraid. But the sweet spots inside that painful scenario brought me to the river, and to further opportunities for healing and growth. I will be forever grateful to my friends for allowing me to live on their property. It's been a scene of transformation and I am peaceful.

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This week will see the beginning of Part 3 as The Grand Adventure continues. A friend and I head out Tuesday for parts south. I am thrilled to see what is around the next bend and will bring you along with pictures and commentary. I wonder what delicious, juicy, excitement life will bring me next?

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❤

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\"Thus they set out from the mount of the LORD three days' journey, with the ark of the covenant of the LORD journeying in front of them for the three days, to seek out a resting place for them. The cloud of the LORD was over them by day when they set out from the camp.\"

\nNumbers 10:33-34\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2015-04-20T01:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2015/04/20/the-grand-adventure.html", "tags": ["Travel","TOW-Wanda!","Camping","The Grand Adventure","Fun","Gratitude","goRVing","Courage","Widow","Road Trip"] }, { "id": "http://mashmallowranch.micro.blog/2014/12/03/strolling.html", "title": "Strolling", "content_html": "\n
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I am preparing to fly to Colorado for a couple of weeks. Father-in-law #2 turns 90 this weekend and we are having a family reunion/birthday party for him. I took him out for breakfast the week before I left for West Virginia and he was telling me of his upcoming birthday. He wanted to make sure I was coming. Even though I hadn't planned to go back quite this soon, how can you turn down an invitation like that? So, I'm preparing to fly in the opposite direction than usual. It feels a bit strange.

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My aunt and I had gone shopping on Monday and when we heard the forecast for freezing rain, we agreed it would be best to head out a little early. I quickly gathered the essentials and headed back to town. I was planning to stay at my cousin's last night but his wife was sick. I decided to go ahead and drive to Columbus to stay the night at Easton Town Centre. (I'm flying from Dayton this time. It saved me over $300 which I quickly ate up in hotel bills, but…it's a much needed break.)

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I walked around the lovely shops in the foggy cold air, snug and cozy in my full length blue fox coat. (Please don't think ill of me for wearing fur. Mr. Virgo bought me that coat for our first married Christmas. I had been complaining how cold I was so Christmas morning arrived along with a huge box under the tree addressed to \"My Baby Doll\". Inside was the most beautiful coat I had ever seen. I had a flash of guilt about all those animals. Then I saw the look of absolute joy on Mr. Virgo's face and I melted into a quivering little puddle on the floor. That man loved me with the white-hot heat of the sun and, protesters beware, I will wear that coat and feel the love all the way from Heaven!) It seems there are at least a dozen women in Columbus who agree it's a pretty gorgeous coat. The lights, the sounds, the smells, and the warm fuzzies of the season are in abundance in this retail megalopolis. I felt utterly decadent ordering a burger for dinner with a scoop of ice cream for dessert. I felt totally pampered when I treated myself to the free sample of peppermint bark in Williams Sonoma. I felt incredibly indulgent when I bought a couple jars of Turkey Brine mix for the next two Thanksgivings, half price! I've had a full day of entertainment and food for under $50. OK, not including lodging…yikes! Merry Christmas to me! :-/

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Heading into the Holidays doesn't seem laced with as many land mines as last year. I saw little children visiting Santa and didn't feel compelled to run into his arms begging for a new heart like I did last Christmas. I'm actually looking forward to seeing my favorite Santa next week when I go to the mountains. I want to thank him again for his compassion. I am sure there will be moments. Like walking through the men's department in Penney's yesterday, spotting a beautiful sweater, instinctively thinking \"He'd look so good in this.\" Sigh. It's a little less painful this year…really, it is.

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❤

\n\n", "date_published": "2014-12-03T02:30:00-06:00", "url": "https://marshmallowranch.com/2014/12/03/strolling.html", "tags": ["Family","Fun","Road Trip"] } ] }