Time sure flies

For weeks I've been wanting to fill you in on our doings, but projects and down time (and life) get in the way. Where does time go? I'll see how much I can get done before I have to start dinner in 37 minutes.

A few weeks ago, Sam got shot with the Covid vaccine and it hasn't affected him a bit. What do you think? Does he look normal to you?

I've been learning how to use my new tablet, and I really like it. We haven't had one before and I would love to use it to write blog posts, but I'm not sure how to access photos from my phone. Anyone have any suggestions?

Frankie and Dingus are thriving and play together almost every day. 

Mom Virginia, on the other hand, fell in her bedroom about 4 weeks ago, didn't break any bones, but acquired a pacemaker. She's been in rehab and will come home next week. Tomorrow is her 87th birthday. We haven't been able to see her, of course. I'm sure some of you are in similar situations, and it's so hard.

But having professional babysitters take  care of her has allowed us to get away from home a bit more!

Sam had a doctor's appointment in Safford, so we spent the day over there, thrifting and eating pizza. 

We visited friends in Arivaca (no photos, just hours of conversation) and on the way home, stopped at the Longhorn in Amado for dinner. I've never been there and it's beautiful inside, with great food. Longhorn Grill & Saloon

Then last weekend, we splurged on a hotel (thanks, Tim!) in Yuma. After 30+ years in southern Arizona, it's time we exited the San Diego freeway to see the town. Our tour guides were awesome! Bob and Shelly are fellow RVers working and renovating a cute small home there. In years past, we've dropped in on them in Salt Lake City and Mesa, and they're also bicycle buddies. And brewery buddies. We have fun.

The next morning we toured Yuma Territorial Prison. Fortunately, despite appearances, they no longer take prisoners. 

It's a fascinating place, in operation from 1876 through 1910.

It's right on the banks of the Colorado River, so we did one of my favorite things, a nature walk.

Back at the ranch, we continue to detail the Honda. Have I ever mentioned how slowly we work?

Sam focuses on the exterior and engine compartment, including headlights. 

Now they look like new. 

Sam also dehydrated the remaining jalapenos from last year's garden, to make chili powder. 

Also several pounds of serrano peppers that were given to us. Taste tests are ongoing, but they're both spicy!

We freed up room in our storage trailer by selling an extra mattress and box spring to a friend here in Mescal. The new beneficiary even helped me with delivery. 

On the same note as my first photo, Sam has been seeing dogs running in the sky.

And livened up his day with a new mohawk.

It was based on this drawing by one of his younger riders. Every day on the bus, Sam greets every child by name, acts as a tour guide, sometimes sings, or occasionally has the kids bark at his boss as he supervises the loading zone.

In spite of this, or more likely, because of it, he received this great gift on his birthday last month, from another young student. 

We should all strive to be so popular!

(Full disclosure -- this post took way longer than 37 minutes. In fact, it's now the following day.) I enjoy catching you up on our life. Have a great day.