Now you may ask, "What's in Smith Center, KS?" Well, it's the home of Peterson Industries, the manufacturer of the Excel 5th wheel. We're here to get a tour of the factory and also some get some minor warranty work completed.
Wouldn't you know it. Mel & Karol Nefzger are here also. They came from Idaho to also get some work completed. The service area is first class. They have a lounge that is open for clients 24 hours per day.
The factory tour really impressed us all, especially William. It's amazing how it all comes together. Now we know why this is such a great 5th wheel. It confirms our decision to go with the best. The people working there really take pride in their work. It sure gives one a lot of confidence in their product. Thank you to everyone at Excel for all their work.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
July 27 - 28 - Offutt AFB, NE
Offutt AFB, where we stayed, is just south of Omaha, the home of our niece Amanda Price, recent dental graduate husband Jason, son Jaden and the newest addition, daughter Jordin. What a fun time we had at Dave's Barbecue. They are getting ready to move so seeing them was a real treat. Our granddaughter Anna especially liked holding the baby.
William found a great playmate in Jaden. They really got into the DS play system. Almost didn't know they were at supper because of the intense play between them.
We had to do laundry and thankfully we were at the base. They usually have very good facilities and Offutt was no exception. The commisary was where we picked up some great corn fed beef. You could cut it with your fork. Oh soooooo good.
William found a great playmate in Jaden. They really got into the DS play system. Almost didn't know they were at supper because of the intense play between them.
We had to do laundry and thankfully we were at the base. They usually have very good facilities and Offutt was no exception. The commisary was where we picked up some great corn fed beef. You could cut it with your fork. Oh soooooo good.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
July 25 - 26 - Des Moines, IA
Well, we leave Savage, MN and sure enough the weather man was right. We just finished hitching up Endeavor II and the rain started. It was pretty heavy to start but then ended when we crossed into Iowa. We're headed to Des Moines for a two day stay at Cutty's Des Moines Camping Club.
They were celebrating Christmas in July here. There was an exchange of gifts and other celebrations. Something different, for sure.
This is the largest park we've been at yet. They have 525 sites. We found five other Excels here too. It rare to find one other Excel so five was unheard of. The park afforded all amenities including the beloved swimming pool for the grand kids. They had a great time swimming and playing minuture golf.
The best part was the fresh corn from the stalk. It was so sweet. I'd forgotten how good fresh corn is. We're glad we stopped here.
They were celebrating Christmas in July here. There was an exchange of gifts and other celebrations. Something different, for sure.
This is the largest park we've been at yet. They have 525 sites. We found five other Excels here too. It rare to find one other Excel so five was unheard of. The park afforded all amenities including the beloved swimming pool for the grand kids. They had a great time swimming and playing minuture golf.
The best part was the fresh corn from the stalk. It was so sweet. I'd forgotten how good fresh corn is. We're glad we stopped here.
Friday, July 25, 2008
July 21 - 24 Savage, MN
We decided to come back to Savage, MN and check some things out. Our time here before was too short for doing some of the things we wanted. We went back to the Town & Country RV Park and really enjoyed ourselves. So far on the trip, I'd have to say that this has been the best park.There is a very peaceful trail behind the park, if you can tolerate the mosquitos. We used lots of special formula repellant. It worked pretty good with only an occasional bite. It's a great place for quite thinking.
We were unable to connect with John & Mary Jelinek again but did meet up with Howard & Barb Schacht for a great evening meal in St Paul. Howard turned me on to a the author Lee Child and I was able to return three of his books after having them for just ten days. He is a really good writer of the type of books I enjoy.
This week was just for doing research on some possibilities for travel next year. Most of our questions were answered and it looks like we'll be back here for the summer. We met with David & Jill Olmstead, RV park owners, and found a friendship in the making. We look forward to seeing them again next year.The weather has really held up for us so far. Rain is forcasted though on Friday when we're scheduled to leave. Oh well, it'll help wash Endeavor II, I hope.
Monday, July 21, 2008
July 6 - 19 - Great Lakes NavalTraining Station, IL
Wow, it's been 45 years since I passed through these gates for the 1st time as a new recruit. I felt a relief knowing that this time I was only a visitor. I have to admit though that there was also a great pride knowing that I had completed a "journey" that changed my life forever.
We are scheduled to stay here for two weeks to attend a wedding in Chicago on July 12th. The campsite was about 100 yards from the Lake Michigan looking south east. Morning sunrises were spectacular over the water. We were actually able to see a portion of the Chicago skyline from the beach on a real clear day. There are great breezes coming off the lake too. They help to beat the humidity.
Every morning we were awakened by the cadence call of the sailors out for their morning run. I sure was glad I wasn't part of that run. The final hill was a killer for sure. Then there was Tim G on the beach. He was a recent graduate of the Basic Underwater Demolition School and getting himself ready for the rest of his training as a Navy Seal. I'm not too sure about the running with an arm full of a large tree or the doing push ups in the cold water of the lake. According to the women with me, he sure was in "good shape".
Then there was the real reason we were in Chicago. The marriage of Jason, our nephew, to Jamie. It was held at the Palmer House and was a real fun time for all. This will truly be a day for them to remember.
We have now picked up our grandson. This will give us some good quality time which is very hard to come by these days. It'll be a great time for us seeing them exposed to new experiences.
Chicago was Chicago. Big city with $25+ parking, traffic, traffic and more traffic. Oh yes, there is Millennium Park. Chicago has done a great job of changing things for the tourist. It's a lot more interesting than what I remember. Then again a lot changes in 45 years.
Seeing the family was also a great time. We were able to go to 6 Flags Park with my sister, Marge, and the boys John & Nick. It was more roller coasters and high rides. The best part was when my grandson wanted to go on the Giant Drop. It's a ride that climbs 200 feet into the sky before dropping riders into a high-speed free fall. Well, two thirds up the ride, he says, "Papa, you know I'm afraid of heights". Talk about being committed with nowhere to go but up and then down. He made it through OK. Needless to say he did not want to go again.
Then we had Roseann's mom, sister, Mary, and nephew, David, out to the base for a visit of our "condo on wheels". We shared some very fresh lake salmon and a great time was had by all.
Wednesday we were able to meet up with old friends from Albuquerque, Al Mason, Joan Carter and their son Jeffrey. It's what our journey is all about. Reconnecting with people who have touched our lives along our journey of life. We'll see them again for sure.
Laundry day and clean up the RV. Rain is coming down with a vengeance. We haven't seen this much rain in a long time in Albuquerque. I hope the RV floats. :)
Friday brought our niece Jennifer out for a visit. It was good to see her and hear about her life's dreams and aspirations. We wish her the best. She was able to share in attending a USO concert given by Lt Dan's Band, Gary Sinise of CSI: NY fame. What a thrill. Picnic supper on the parade grounds, Navy trainees all around and great music. What a way to spend a Friday night. We'll remember that for a long time for sure.
Can't believe it's already Saturday. Two weeks have just flown by so quickly. Time does fly when you're having fun. Time to pack things up and move on down the road tomorrow. It's been great.
We are scheduled to stay here for two weeks to attend a wedding in Chicago on July 12th. The campsite was about 100 yards from the Lake Michigan looking south east. Morning sunrises were spectacular over the water. We were actually able to see a portion of the Chicago skyline from the beach on a real clear day. There are great breezes coming off the lake too. They help to beat the humidity.
Every morning we were awakened by the cadence call of the sailors out for their morning run. I sure was glad I wasn't part of that run. The final hill was a killer for sure. Then there was Tim G on the beach. He was a recent graduate of the Basic Underwater Demolition School and getting himself ready for the rest of his training as a Navy Seal. I'm not too sure about the running with an arm full of a large tree or the doing push ups in the cold water of the lake. According to the women with me, he sure was in "good shape".
Then there was the real reason we were in Chicago. The marriage of Jason, our nephew, to Jamie. It was held at the Palmer House and was a real fun time for all. This will truly be a day for them to remember.We have now picked up our grandson. This will give us some good quality time which is very hard to come by these days. It'll be a great time for us seeing them exposed to new experiences.
Chicago was Chicago. Big city with $25+ parking, traffic, traffic and more traffic. Oh yes, there is Millennium Park. Chicago has done a great job of changing things for the tourist. It's a lot more interesting than what I remember. Then again a lot changes in 45 years.
Seeing the family was also a great time. We were able to go to 6 Flags Park with my sister, Marge, and the boys John & Nick. It was more roller coasters and high rides. The best part was when my grandson wanted to go on the Giant Drop. It's a ride that climbs 200 feet into the sky before dropping riders into a high-speed free fall. Well, two thirds up the ride, he says, "Papa, you know I'm afraid of heights". Talk about being committed with nowhere to go but up and then down. He made it through OK. Needless to say he did not want to go again.Then we had Roseann's mom, sister, Mary, and nephew, David, out to the base for a visit of our "condo on wheels". We shared some very fresh lake salmon and a great time was had by all.
Wednesday we were able to meet up with old friends from Albuquerque, Al Mason, Joan Carter and their son Jeffrey. It's what our journey is all about. Reconnecting with people who have touched our lives along our journey of life. We'll see them again for sure.
Laundry day and clean up the RV. Rain is coming down with a vengeance. We haven't seen this much rain in a long time in Albuquerque. I hope the RV floats. :)
Friday brought our niece Jennifer out for a visit. It was good to see her and hear about her life's dreams and aspirations. We wish her the best. She was able to share in attending a USO concert given by Lt Dan's Band, Gary Sinise of CSI: NY fame. What a thrill. Picnic supper on the parade grounds, Navy trainees all around and great music. What a way to spend a Friday night. We'll remember that for a long time for sure.
Can't believe it's already Saturday. Two weeks have just flown by so quickly. Time does fly when you're having fun. Time to pack things up and move on down the road tomorrow. It's been great.
July 20 - Portage, WI
Stayed at Sky High Campground & RV Resort last night. What a great place except for the "bumps" in the internal road. It caused the RV to pitch a little more than I would have liked. All is well though.
They have everything that will keep the kids occupied. It's a place built for entertaining families. This is only for a night so the pool is the place to hang out.
I can't believe the road conditions. I haven't seen this many pot holes and rough spots in a long time. Thank goodness for Air Lifts. They really help smooth things out. Northern IL and Wisconsin have been the worst so far. I hope they don't have rough winter.
They have everything that will keep the kids occupied. It's a place built for entertaining families. This is only for a night so the pool is the place to hang out.
I can't believe the road conditions. I haven't seen this many pot holes and rough spots in a long time. Thank goodness for Air Lifts. They really help smooth things out. Northern IL and Wisconsin have been the worst so far. I hope they don't have rough winter.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
July 3 - 5 - Wisconsin Dells, WI
The trip to "The Dells" was the toughest so far. The roads were the roughest and then we got stuck in accident traffic. Took us over an hour to go just 8 miles. Seems that a large truck had run off the road and burned. This was the 1st accident we've seen this trip. There have been a lot of tickets being given by the highway patrol in all the states. They have been on the lookout for sure. All in all, the driving has been smooth and stress free.
Belonging to the FT'ing RV family has the benefit of meeting new friends. We had the pleasure of spending time with fellow FT'ing Excel owners, Tom & Donna Clapham. It was a great way to celebrate the 4th of July, hamburgers, hot dogs, beans, potato salad and some drinks. Fun for all. We look forward to seeing them again down the road.
Roller Coaster, Roller Coaster & more Roller Coasters and after all that there is always the Wave Pool. That was the order of the day at Mt Olympus Park. As with any of these parks, you arrive early (0930) and then stand in line to get on the rides. The parking attendant was very nice though. He made me park over 4 slots to make sure that I wouldn't be "trapped" in the parking lot. We also ran up the stock price of the sun screen makers for sure. I felt like a grease pit at the end of the day but no sun burn.
The "Dells" have been hit hard by the recent rains. One of the lakes got drained by a broken levy. We saw a sign renting a pontoon boat for $0.95 / 4 hrs. The only thing was there was NO WATER and it was stuck in the mud. Funny but sad. The town wasn't really busy for that weekend holiday. At least not like I expected it to be. There were lots of deals to be had from the local merchants and the parks. Two for one sales abounded every where.
So far the weather has really been our freind. We're just trying to used to the bugs and humidity again. The air conditioning has been running more than ever. Then one steps outside and you feel like it's time for another shower.
Up early and off we go to our furthest East destination, Great Lakes, IL.
Belonging to the FT'ing RV family has the benefit of meeting new friends. We had the pleasure of spending time with fellow FT'ing Excel owners, Tom & Donna Clapham. It was a great way to celebrate the 4th of July, hamburgers, hot dogs, beans, potato salad and some drinks. Fun for all. We look forward to seeing them again down the road.
Roller Coaster, Roller Coaster & more Roller Coasters and after all that there is always the Wave Pool. That was the order of the day at Mt Olympus Park. As with any of these parks, you arrive early (0930) and then stand in line to get on the rides. The parking attendant was very nice though. He made me park over 4 slots to make sure that I wouldn't be "trapped" in the parking lot. We also ran up the stock price of the sun screen makers for sure. I felt like a grease pit at the end of the day but no sun burn.
The "Dells" have been hit hard by the recent rains. One of the lakes got drained by a broken levy. We saw a sign renting a pontoon boat for $0.95 / 4 hrs. The only thing was there was NO WATER and it was stuck in the mud. Funny but sad. The town wasn't really busy for that weekend holiday. At least not like I expected it to be. There were lots of deals to be had from the local merchants and the parks. Two for one sales abounded every where.
So far the weather has really been our freind. We're just trying to used to the bugs and humidity again. The air conditioning has been running more than ever. Then one steps outside and you feel like it's time for another shower.
Up early and off we go to our furthest East destination, Great Lakes, IL.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
June 30, July 1 - 2 - Pine City, MN
We moved to the north side of Minneapolis to Pine City. Here we were able to meet up with our other friends, Barb & Howard Schacht. They were gracious enough to guide us to the shopping mecca, "Mall of America". Not being a super shopper myself, I was still impressed to see so many stores under one roof. It is an "experience" that one should have one time. I'm not sure about a second visit.
We were able to spend a quite evening with them at the RV Park sharing supper and catching up on all the happenings. Being nurses and also military, there were lots of stories to be told.
Driving around through all of the construction really wasn't too bad. Then again our travelling was limited to mid day. I'm not so sure I'd venture out during rush hour here. The I-35 bridge is almost complete. It's my understanding they're looking at September for an opening date. That should help out a lot.
We were able to spend a quite evening with them at the RV Park sharing supper and catching up on all the happenings. Being nurses and also military, there were lots of stories to be told.
Driving around through all of the construction really wasn't too bad. Then again our travelling was limited to mid day. I'm not so sure I'd venture out during rush hour here. The I-35 bridge is almost complete. It's my understanding they're looking at September for an opening date. That should help out a lot.
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