Yosemite Day 6, June 8,2012 Heading Home
What a great week. We saw some amazing California country, Mother Nature at her best. Yosemite is one of the most beautiful parks in the country. Hetch Hetchy was a new experience for all of our group. I don't think any of us visited it before. The campfires in the evening are always fun, especially on song night. A fun group of people and love traveling with SIRS 15 RV group.
Well, we had to do it! GO BACK DOWN PRIEST GRADE! I was not looking forward to that ride again but it was not too bad. Ed said it was ok and the coach seems to finally be repaired. Well at least until something else goes wrong. Ed decided to take Highway 20 to Jack Tone road home this time. It was about 30 miles longer but a very straight road. We got stuck behind one of those RV Motorhome Rentals! geeez, I am thinking those renters have no business out on the road. This guy was going maybe 40 per hour in a 60 mile zone, a string of vehicles behind him so far it was out of sight. Needless to say that poor guy had many a honk and gesture by the time all these vehicles passed him. Then we were lucky enough to get behind three huge farm equipment sprayers and a fuel truck and chemical truck, five vehicles that were going about 10 miles an hour, they could have pulled over many times but were being so rude and had traffic backed up for miles. I do believe they also had verbal and hand gestures as well. Even with the two idiot incidents, it was a pleasant ride home. It was nice to see the Amador County Line sign. Love to travel and see this beautiful country with good friends but it is always nice to be home.
Hope all our fellow travelers had a safe trip to their destinations. Looking forward to our next adventure!
Until next time....
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Yosemite Day 5 June 7, 2012
Yosemite Day 5 June 7, 2012
Woke up to another sunny day here at Yosemite Lakes Campground. We got another surprise this morning, since we had so much leftover sausage, pancakes and eggs, the guys cooked breakfast again. I can tell ya, the women can get used to this mighty quick!!! Thanks again guys!!!
Today we headed to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. We thought it was about seven miles but turned out to be about 25 miles. The Hetch Hetchy regional water system plays a key role in water delivery in the state of California. On a daily basis, this system provides drinking water to 2.6 million residents and businesses across Southern Alameda, Northern Santa Clara, San Mateo and San Francisco counties. The system generates 1.6 billion kilowatt hours of clean hydroelectric power annually for the City and County of San Francisco, as well as Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts.
The water coming out today was spectacular, it was like swirling around and looked like it was going uphill, if that makes any sense… guess you had to be there. There is a great hiking trail to the water fall. If we planned better, proper shoes, water etc. I even could have made that hike.
Tonight Butch, Betty, Arnie, Marilynn, Gail, Jeff, Dave, April, Ed R, Dorothy, Ed and I went to the Groveland Hotel for dinner. We were supposed to go to a restaurant closer to the campground but they left a message at the office their refrigerator went out and all they were serving was cold sandwiches. What was strange when we were driving back to camp the restaurant seemed to be full. Oh well their loss. Our dinners were ok at the Groveland, they were a little stingy on the serving of wine and soup. The desserts were awesome tho!
Len, Paula, Steve and Sue had a nice fire going by the time we got back. Our last night in camp. It is always a bit sad the end of our trips, we have such an amazing group that have fun and laugh a lot, just a good time. We just have to look forward to more adventures. Tomorrow we are all leaving and going in different directions, safe travels to all my dear friends..
So until next time…..
Woke up to another sunny day here at Yosemite Lakes Campground. We got another surprise this morning, since we had so much leftover sausage, pancakes and eggs, the guys cooked breakfast again. I can tell ya, the women can get used to this mighty quick!!! Thanks again guys!!!
Today we headed to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. We thought it was about seven miles but turned out to be about 25 miles. The Hetch Hetchy regional water system plays a key role in water delivery in the state of California. On a daily basis, this system provides drinking water to 2.6 million residents and businesses across Southern Alameda, Northern Santa Clara, San Mateo and San Francisco counties. The system generates 1.6 billion kilowatt hours of clean hydroelectric power annually for the City and County of San Francisco, as well as Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts.
The water coming out today was spectacular, it was like swirling around and looked like it was going uphill, if that makes any sense… guess you had to be there. There is a great hiking trail to the water fall. If we planned better, proper shoes, water etc. I even could have made that hike.
Tonight Butch, Betty, Arnie, Marilynn, Gail, Jeff, Dave, April, Ed R, Dorothy, Ed and I went to the Groveland Hotel for dinner. We were supposed to go to a restaurant closer to the campground but they left a message at the office their refrigerator went out and all they were serving was cold sandwiches. What was strange when we were driving back to camp the restaurant seemed to be full. Oh well their loss. Our dinners were ok at the Groveland, they were a little stingy on the serving of wine and soup. The desserts were awesome tho!
Len, Paula, Steve and Sue had a nice fire going by the time we got back. Our last night in camp. It is always a bit sad the end of our trips, we have such an amazing group that have fun and laugh a lot, just a good time. We just have to look forward to more adventures. Tomorrow we are all leaving and going in different directions, safe travels to all my dear friends..
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| Hetch Hethcy Dam |
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| Hetch Hehtcy Dam |
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| Hetch Hetchy Lake |
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| Waterfall |
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| Tunnel leading to the path for the waterfall |
So until next time…..
Yosemite Day 4 June 6,2012
The weather was much better this morning, was mighty cold during the night be at least the sun is shining. The day started with a great breakfast cooked by the guys. They served pancakes, sausage and eggs. It was a great treat especially for us women. Thank you very much fellas!!!!!
The plan of the day was to go back to Yosemite and do the tram tour. Those in attendance, Ed and Dorothy, Butch and Betty, Arnie and Marilynn, Len and Paula and Ed and I. The other couples did a bit of sightseeing in the Groveland area. The day was gorgeous in the Yosemite Valley. Our tour guide Christine was excellent, sharing the history of the park and some personal stories. The Falls were flowing and the river was still running moderately. The park is getting crowded with the kids out of school, so glad we were able to get this trip in before it got too bad. We had a bit of lunch when we returned to Yosemite Lodge and then back to camp.
The pooches....
This evening was heavy snack night (still cannot spell that H word) and a very nice variety we had. We had a campfire again this evening which was nice. We seldom get fires in anymore with the fire danger in California. It was an early evening for most of us, I think the festivities of the night before, some were still recovering.
Tomorrow the plan is Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
So, until next time………
The weather was much better this morning, was mighty cold during the night be at least the sun is shining. The day started with a great breakfast cooked by the guys. They served pancakes, sausage and eggs. It was a great treat especially for us women. Thank you very much fellas!!!!!
The plan of the day was to go back to Yosemite and do the tram tour. Those in attendance, Ed and Dorothy, Butch and Betty, Arnie and Marilynn, Len and Paula and Ed and I. The other couples did a bit of sightseeing in the Groveland area. The day was gorgeous in the Yosemite Valley. Our tour guide Christine was excellent, sharing the history of the park and some personal stories. The Falls were flowing and the river was still running moderately. The park is getting crowded with the kids out of school, so glad we were able to get this trip in before it got too bad. We had a bit of lunch when we returned to Yosemite Lodge and then back to camp.
The pooches....
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| China |
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| Guess who? |
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| Yep, it is Gracie |
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| Jake |
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| Marilynn holding Kara |
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| Buddy |
This evening was heavy snack night (still cannot spell that H word) and a very nice variety we had. We had a campfire again this evening which was nice. We seldom get fires in anymore with the fire danger in California. It was an early evening for most of us, I think the festivities of the night before, some were still recovering.
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| Gnome at Yosemite |
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| Betty with her Gnome |
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| Christine our tour guide! |
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| Bridal Veil Falls |
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| Climbers on El Capitan Can you see them? |
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| One of many meadows in the park |
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| Maureen and Ed Hope everyone on this trip had a good time! It was an awesome trip! |
Tomorrow the plan is Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
So, until next time………
Friday, June 8, 2012
Yosemite Day 3 June 5, 2012
We woke up to chilly weather this morning. It got pretty cold last night and even had to put an extra quilt on the bed. Today was a free day. Butch, Steve and Jeff went to play golf. Ed R., Leonard went fishing and Ed N. decided to go just to watch. After hiking through poison oak and the terrain getting steeper and steeper almost a 50 foot drop off to the creek Ed decided to go back to camp, on the way encountered a four foot snake across the trail. Ed was NOT a happy camper. Dorothy, Marilynn and I took a ride to Groveland. It was not a retail shopping experience by any means. Only a few shops and not much merchandise. We did have a nice lunch in the Country Café. The rest of our group stayed back at camp and just relaxed.
The fishermen, Ed R. and Leonard returned without fish but had some stories to tell. Seems Len was catching a fish, somehow fell in the creek and the water was mighty cold and with the windy weather, losing the fish, Len was NOT a happy camper. When they returned, here is where the story gets a bit sketchy. Due to many adult beverages consumed in the afternoon, not too sure of the events, I think it was Len and Ed R. that decided to start a song about their day adventure. When the golfers returned, it was requested that Butch write the tune for the lyrics. All the guys were in a circle putting this thing together and may have had some input to the masterpiece. Due to more adult beverages being consumed the decision was made to start dinner early. We had another feast of BBQ Steak, beans, salad, garlic bread, rice, potato salad and dessert. Totally awesome, one thing this group does well is EAT.
We had our campfire and Betty brought out the guitar for Butch. For a while Butch was trying to play the broom but does much better with the guitar. We sang our usual songs, in anticipation of the debut of the masterpiece that was created that afternoon. At first there was a bit of trouble with tune matching the lyrics, perhaps some of trying to sing it did not help either. Butch was singing a tune a bit later and just happened to fit in with the lyrics. You Tube will never be the same.
Printing the sorta kinda lyrics to the tune, Due to content, discretion is advised.
Leaf of three, let it be. I agree show me a tree, so I can pee.
I got stung by a bumble bee on my way to pee pee while I was going wee wee.
I began to choke so went and found a goat which I carried in a tote, I bought it a coat.
I put the goat wearing a coat in a boat and rowed across the moat, when the boat began to float.
I had a stroke while rowing the boat and croaked.
Composed by SIRS 15 otherwise known as Old Farts Club.
Well, I cannot compete with that, so until next time....
We woke up to chilly weather this morning. It got pretty cold last night and even had to put an extra quilt on the bed. Today was a free day. Butch, Steve and Jeff went to play golf. Ed R., Leonard went fishing and Ed N. decided to go just to watch. After hiking through poison oak and the terrain getting steeper and steeper almost a 50 foot drop off to the creek Ed decided to go back to camp, on the way encountered a four foot snake across the trail. Ed was NOT a happy camper. Dorothy, Marilynn and I took a ride to Groveland. It was not a retail shopping experience by any means. Only a few shops and not much merchandise. We did have a nice lunch in the Country Café. The rest of our group stayed back at camp and just relaxed.
The fishermen, Ed R. and Leonard returned without fish but had some stories to tell. Seems Len was catching a fish, somehow fell in the creek and the water was mighty cold and with the windy weather, losing the fish, Len was NOT a happy camper. When they returned, here is where the story gets a bit sketchy. Due to many adult beverages consumed in the afternoon, not too sure of the events, I think it was Len and Ed R. that decided to start a song about their day adventure. When the golfers returned, it was requested that Butch write the tune for the lyrics. All the guys were in a circle putting this thing together and may have had some input to the masterpiece. Due to more adult beverages being consumed the decision was made to start dinner early. We had another feast of BBQ Steak, beans, salad, garlic bread, rice, potato salad and dessert. Totally awesome, one thing this group does well is EAT.
We had our campfire and Betty brought out the guitar for Butch. For a while Butch was trying to play the broom but does much better with the guitar. We sang our usual songs, in anticipation of the debut of the masterpiece that was created that afternoon. At first there was a bit of trouble with tune matching the lyrics, perhaps some of trying to sing it did not help either. Butch was singing a tune a bit later and just happened to fit in with the lyrics. You Tube will never be the same.
Printing the sorta kinda lyrics to the tune, Due to content, discretion is advised.
Leaf of three, let it be. I agree show me a tree, so I can pee.
I got stung by a bumble bee on my way to pee pee while I was going wee wee.
I began to choke so went and found a goat which I carried in a tote, I bought it a coat.
I put the goat wearing a coat in a boat and rowed across the moat, when the boat began to float.
I had a stroke while rowing the boat and croaked.
Composed by SIRS 15 otherwise known as Old Farts Club.
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| Guys assisting with the song |
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| Guys assisting with the song |
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| Butch could not find his guitar so here is the substitute |
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| The original composers Len and Ed |
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| Dinner |
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| Campfire groud starting to gather |
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| Len and Butch with a special song |
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| Continuing with the special song |
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| Grand Finale Debut of Leaf of Three composed by Len and Ed Music by Butch and input of whatever by the rest of the guys! |
Yosemite trip Day 2 June 4, 2012
Yosemite trip Day 2 June 4, 2012
• Woke up to a very nice day; however the forecast is calling for rain today. We are going to Yosemite Valley Floor today and planned on taking the open air tram to get to see most of the highlights of the park and decide where we would like to explore. Steve called at 7:00 am to reserve tickets and informed due to the weather change coming they were cancelling the tours that day. We all decided to go to the park anyway and just wing it. Inside the park the first stop was Yosemite Falls. It is early enough in the year where the falls are still spectacular. When we got down to visitor parking, we all broke up in smaller groups. Ed, Dorothy, Ed and I stopped at the Grille for lunch, went over to the Visitors center and museum. The skies were getting a bit ugly but it was still warm. We walked up to the lower Yosemite Fall site and took some pictures. By this time the skies were looking a bit ominous so we started back to the car. We took a wrong turn and missed our trail and finally found a bus to get back to the parking area. Most of our group were there waiting for folks to return, a few already started back to camp. Our timing was pretty good because as we were leaving the park the rain did start. We did stop at a meadow so Ed could take a look at El Capitan and the climbers. There was a tent on one of the ledges up there and some climbers had hammocks set up to sleep in. I bet they had a miserable night with the rain and all, but they are supposed to be prepared for all conditions… good luck to them. By the time we got back to camp it was pouring and everyone were in the rigs trying to get warm. Len came around a couple hours later with umbrella in the pouring rain to inform that Happy Hour and heavy snacks (cannot spell that H word) were cancelled for the evening. The rain did stop about 6:00 and all the pooches were out for their walk and potty break, it was a long day for the dogs in our camp.
Across the road from us, a group of about 4 adults at least 4 or 5 kids and 5 dogs. Last night they had a huge fire and lights up having a great time. They have one 5th wheel and about four tents for the kids. When it was raining they were all including the dogs in that one rig, bet it was cozy. They have been an entertaining group to watch. Remember we don’t have TV!!!
Tomorrow is a free day, not sure what the plans are since we did not meet up tonight. I did hear Golf in there somewhere so figure some of the guys will be doing that. Hetch Hetchy was another idea being considered. The rain has stopped and hope the storm has moved out and back to sunny skies tomorrow..
So, until next time…
• Woke up to a very nice day; however the forecast is calling for rain today. We are going to Yosemite Valley Floor today and planned on taking the open air tram to get to see most of the highlights of the park and decide where we would like to explore. Steve called at 7:00 am to reserve tickets and informed due to the weather change coming they were cancelling the tours that day. We all decided to go to the park anyway and just wing it. Inside the park the first stop was Yosemite Falls. It is early enough in the year where the falls are still spectacular. When we got down to visitor parking, we all broke up in smaller groups. Ed, Dorothy, Ed and I stopped at the Grille for lunch, went over to the Visitors center and museum. The skies were getting a bit ugly but it was still warm. We walked up to the lower Yosemite Fall site and took some pictures. By this time the skies were looking a bit ominous so we started back to the car. We took a wrong turn and missed our trail and finally found a bus to get back to the parking area. Most of our group were there waiting for folks to return, a few already started back to camp. Our timing was pretty good because as we were leaving the park the rain did start. We did stop at a meadow so Ed could take a look at El Capitan and the climbers. There was a tent on one of the ledges up there and some climbers had hammocks set up to sleep in. I bet they had a miserable night with the rain and all, but they are supposed to be prepared for all conditions… good luck to them. By the time we got back to camp it was pouring and everyone were in the rigs trying to get warm. Len came around a couple hours later with umbrella in the pouring rain to inform that Happy Hour and heavy snacks (cannot spell that H word) were cancelled for the evening. The rain did stop about 6:00 and all the pooches were out for their walk and potty break, it was a long day for the dogs in our camp.
Across the road from us, a group of about 4 adults at least 4 or 5 kids and 5 dogs. Last night they had a huge fire and lights up having a great time. They have one 5th wheel and about four tents for the kids. When it was raining they were all including the dogs in that one rig, bet it was cozy. They have been an entertaining group to watch. Remember we don’t have TV!!!
Tomorrow is a free day, not sure what the plans are since we did not meet up tonight. I did hear Golf in there somewhere so figure some of the guys will be doing that. Hetch Hetchy was another idea being considered. The rain has stopped and hope the storm has moved out and back to sunny skies tomorrow..
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| Half Dome |
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| Bridal Falls |
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| Len and Paula |
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| Yosemite Lakes Campground |
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| Maureen and Ed |
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| Steve and Sue |
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| Phyllis and Gary |
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| Arnie, Marilynn, April, Len, Paula, Dave and Ed |
Yosemite trip Day 1 June 3, 2012
Yosemite trip Day 1 June 3, 2012
We do not have TV connections here unless you have satellite; I think two rigs have TV. There is no cell service and no internet unless you go to the lodge up by the office and it is a very slow dial up connection. Ed and I did take the Ipad up late evening and was able to get mail. There are some amenities there, TV, pool table and other tables to play cards etc. We will have to get the group up there some evening to play. Without the electronics and no cell service, thought I would get antsy but it has been sort of nice. Short term anyway! LOL
Day one for us, however the majority of the Sirs 15 RV group arrived yesterday. We met up with Dorothy and Ed at Raleys in Jackson about 9:50 am and started on the trip up Highway 49. This was the first trip for the RV since the repair. We were having engine trouble with the coach for the last year when it would bog down on hills. We had it into CAT for repairs twice and the second time it appears they got the problem resolved. Believe me when I say it got the ultimate test on this trip on the steep twisty Priest Grade on Highway 120. I followed in our new tow car, as we have not had the tow gear installed parts are ordered so hope it will be set up by the next trip. We finally gave up the Smart Car for a Chevy HHR that is easy to tow without a lot of prep to tow. Loved towing the Smart Car but when we had to drive 527 miles home from the Desert with no cruise control, decided to upgrade to a larger car. Not really sure what the HHR stands for, however Ed calls it the Horney High Roller. Does that surprise anyone? Anyway, we are following Ed and Dorothy, another RV is in front of them and there is nowhere to turn off this road or a passing lane. An idiot in a jeep behind me was riding so close and trying to pass on double line on curves just about any stupid way he could think of. When he did pass I was so hoping a cop was around, he could have had a huge pile up and people killed. What an @ss. We arrived at Yosemite Lakes Campground about 12:10 pm. We are about 19 miles from Groveland and 5 miles from the entrance to the park. Most of our group, Len and Paula, Dave and April, Butch and Betty, Arnie and Marilynn, Gary and Phyllis, Steve and Sue, Andy and Jan were already in camp, Ed and Dorothy, Ed and I thought we were the last ones in but Jeff and Gail were the last to arrive, making ten couples.
The weather was very pleasant; we set up camp and visited all afternoon. Happy Hour at 5:00 pm as is the custom. The Hosts of this trip, Len, Paula, Dave and April were providing the main course a BBQ turkey and side dishes, half of the group also brought side dishes. What a feast. That turkey was so good, moist just cooked perfect. All the dishes were awesome and we ate very well that night. Dessert was red velvet cake. After dinner we were outside visiting and of course the stories and laughter which I so enjoy with this group.
We do not have TV connections here unless you have satellite; I think two rigs have TV. There is no cell service and no internet unless you go to the lodge up by the office and it is a very slow dial up connection. Ed and I did take the Ipad up late evening and was able to get mail. There are some amenities there, TV, pool table and other tables to play cards etc. We will have to get the group up there some evening to play. Without the electronics and no cell service, thought I would get antsy but it has been sort of nice. Short term anyway! LOL
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| Andy and Jan |
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| Dorothy and Ed |
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| Butch and Betty |
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| Arnie, Marilynn, April, Len, Paula, Dave, Ed Jr. Ed Sr. |
So until tomorrow…..
Farewell MY ORFN…
Farewell MY ORFN…
The little Smart Car served us well over the last few years. It was a great tow car, never even knew it was behind the Contessa. We decided to get a larger car to tow especially since we sometimes drive it home from the Desert, and 527 miles is a little rough in a Smart Car especially without cruise control. We also needed a car to hold Beau when we take him out and about. We decided upon a Chevy HHR. They are a a retro of the old Chevy Suburban. Chevy stopped making them in 2011 to push the Chevy Cruise, a new model. So now we have a bright red Chevy HHR, waiting for the tow equipment parts to come in from Camping World. I miss the little smart car, fun to drive, but now we can take folks with us on excursions when we are traveling and that is nice…
The little Smart Car served us well over the last few years. It was a great tow car, never even knew it was behind the Contessa. We decided to get a larger car to tow especially since we sometimes drive it home from the Desert, and 527 miles is a little rough in a Smart Car especially without cruise control. We also needed a car to hold Beau when we take him out and about. We decided upon a Chevy HHR. They are a a retro of the old Chevy Suburban. Chevy stopped making them in 2011 to push the Chevy Cruise, a new model. So now we have a bright red Chevy HHR, waiting for the tow equipment parts to come in from Camping World. I miss the little smart car, fun to drive, but now we can take folks with us on excursions when we are traveling and that is nice…
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