Tow Dolly Blues Solved

If you read my last post, you know how we loaded the Monte Carlo on the dolly last time we moved. Let's just say, it wasn't pretty! So we've solved that problem (maybe created other problems?).

We traded the Monte Carlo for a Saturn Vue. We can now tow 4-down and not deal with dolly any more. In addition we are able to install a medical scooter lift so I can go running around without help. And, with this color, I should be able to pick it out in a parking lot! I understand several things changed for the 2008 Vue, but I can tell you it's a great ride. If you are considering a new vehicle, you really might want to look at a Vue. By the way, we learned that most vehicle manufacturers offer some discount/rebate if you are disabled and install adaptive equipment on the new vehicle. Be sure to check it out.

We are still in Apache Junction, AZ (for another 10 days or so). Our next stop is about 10 miles down the road in Mesa for a week. Hate these long drives!

We are working our way to Casa Grande for the Western Gypsy Gathering (February 10-16, 2008. It looks like Nick has a great lineup of speakers and entertainment. If you haven't made plans to attend, check it out at www.gypsyjournal.net and if you don't subscribe to the Gypsy Journal, you can subscribe at the web site as well. Nick has a real way with words and his newsletter is always packed with places to go and things to see and not just the well-known places. He and Miss Terry ferret out the off-the-beaten-path and the unusual places. I read the Journal from front to back as soon as it comes in. Oh, and Miss Terry has some great recipes to share. We will be there as vendors and as participants so stop in and say Howdy. I'll have some chainmaille for sale if you are interested. Our "booth" will be outside our motor home in the commercial area. Just look for the PRE-PAID LEGAL and IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION banners.

The weather here has been really great. I understand why so many people choose to winter in Arizona. This snap shot is just at the back of our motor home. We have picked several of the pink grapefruit and they are delish! The oranges, lemons, tangerines, limes, etc. are every where. I bought a 4 lb bag of naval oranges for $1 yesterday. With all the cold weather in Florida, California fruit may be a big seller this year.

We are headed out for some sightseeing tomorrow so look for new posts and pictures next week. I appreciate ya'll taking time to read my blog. I hope it brings a smile (and maybe a little jealously for our fine weather). I'll be back soon.....

Tow Dolly Blues

OOPS!!!!!! I guess it was bound to happen sooner or later, but it could have been much MUCH later. As you can see in the pictures, I didn't stop quite soon enough when loading the car onto the dolly.

And to top it off, I could not get out of the car. The fender of the dolly was next to the car doors. John went back into the motor home and brought me a book and coffee while we waited for Good Sam Emergency Road Service to come to our rescue. Not to give a commercial, but I'll always manage to pay my annual fee for GS ERS. Those guys have saved my bacon more than once!

We have been laughing about it, but I can assure you, we weren't laughing at the time. As far as we can tell, there was no collateral damage. A Monte Carlo is a front wheel drive so when the front tires were hanging out in space, there was no way to move the car. And John didn't have his Wheaties for breakfast...

The service guy put a floor jack under the front of the car and lifted it clear of the dolly. John drove the motor home forward until the wheels were over the right spot on the dolly. Once the jack was released and removed, the car was ready for tiedown on the dolly. I think the service guy didn't want to let us try to load it a second time while we were in his call area.

I'll bet he has had fun telling about the silly old woman that couldn't tell when to stop!

Yet another reason NOT TO USE A TOW DOLLY; TOW 4 DOWN!

Here's wishing you and yours and bright and prosperous new year. May you have full pockets, a warm bed, good food & good friends. Remember to laugh at least once a day! It burns calories and extends your life.