Wow, did I sleep good after having stayed up the night before watching the Royal Wedding, but I needed to get up and get a few things done before I depart for the airport.
I don't know what is about leaving for a trip, but I always have to have the house completely picked up. I guess because I hate to come home to a week old mess and with the laundry done, dusting, plants watered, house vacuumed, pets cared for I was ready to go.
Tracy picked me to take me to the airport and with one bag and a carry-on I was on my way. I used my miles to buy my ticket, but they now charge $20 to check a bag. I really didn't want to lug 2 bags around, so I decided to check one. I was informed that for $50 I could up grade to First Class and my bag would be free! It took me 1 second to whip out my credit card. At 6'3" I can use every inch of space.
The flight from Redmond to Portland was smooth and quick. I had one hour in between my flight to Palm Springs, which gave me time to stretch my legs and grab something to eat. It was also nice to be able to board the plane first as part of the first class cabin.
The flight was smooth and I was extremely comfortable and the flight was actually early. It took a little over 4 hours and I had flown from Redmond to Palm Springs California. My folks were here to get me and they look great. Sunny California has treated them well and they had a great tan. I happen to be suffering from a long Central Oregon winter and my skin was as pasty white as snow, I need some serious sun!
I'm looking forward to spending some time away and feeling some much warm spring weather.
I left my chickens, cats and house in good hands of a good friend and told him I would pay him in eggs.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Day 270, PTL it's Friday
Yes I must admit that I got up at 2am and watched the Royal Wedding. My mother is 100% English so it's in my blood to support the Monarch and the Royal family.
After watching the "I will's" and the double kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace I figure I had enough time to get a few hours of sleep before starting my day.
At work it was the typical Friday morning Coffee Clatter and then I was off to do interviews for the new airport manager. It was a very interesting process with two good candidates.
The interviews were done by 1pm and I was back in the office for the rest of the day.
My Friday night consisted of doing chores and getting ready to take a trip tomorrow to sunny southern California. I managed to get two loads of laundry done, clean the kitchen, dust and water plants. I had also let the chickens out so I cleaned up their pen and coop and topped off their feeder.
Having watched the Royal Wedding I was dead tired so I went to bed early. It had been a long day.
After watching the "I will's" and the double kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace I figure I had enough time to get a few hours of sleep before starting my day.
At work it was the typical Friday morning Coffee Clatter and then I was off to do interviews for the new airport manager. It was a very interesting process with two good candidates.
The interviews were done by 1pm and I was back in the office for the rest of the day.
My Friday night consisted of doing chores and getting ready to take a trip tomorrow to sunny southern California. I managed to get two loads of laundry done, clean the kitchen, dust and water plants. I had also let the chickens out so I cleaned up their pen and coop and topped off their feeder.
Having watched the Royal Wedding I was dead tired so I went to bed early. It had been a long day.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Day 269, Thursday and the Business Expo
It was another morning intermittent snow showers and sleet. It had the look and feel of winter but here is April 28th.
Today at work is our Business Expo and I would be busy all day working on the event which runs from 11:45am to 6pm. The event starts off with a lunch and then moves into the Business Expo which showcased 50 business's and their products and services. With the weather being so horrible it was a great way to spend your day the attendance was very good. However as the hour passed 5pm the attendance dropped off dramatically and the vendors started to pack up. Instead of finishing at 6pm were were packed up and done by 6pm, which honestly felt good. It had been a long successful day.
Following the Expo I had a "meet and greet" for two candidates for the new Airport Manager position. I had been standing all day, so I knew my time was going to be limited. I stayed around an hour and then headed for home.
Justin brought my trailer back shortly after I arrived and hooked it up to the John Deere and backed it back into its spot under the roof behind the shop. Justin said he was eager to work on the trailer and would be in touch after he got back from the Pismo Beach Rally in late May.
By 8pm it was already 31 degrees and it was bitterly cold with the wind. I was done for the day.
I checked my computer and found that I had more pictures of the Nash. I still think it's a great car, but as my brother pointed out it is a project and just how many projects can I take on? It's a very good point but I still think I need to consider looking at it.
Today at work is our Business Expo and I would be busy all day working on the event which runs from 11:45am to 6pm. The event starts off with a lunch and then moves into the Business Expo which showcased 50 business's and their products and services. With the weather being so horrible it was a great way to spend your day the attendance was very good. However as the hour passed 5pm the attendance dropped off dramatically and the vendors started to pack up. Instead of finishing at 6pm were were packed up and done by 6pm, which honestly felt good. It had been a long successful day.
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| Back undercover |
Justin brought my trailer back shortly after I arrived and hooked it up to the John Deere and backed it back into its spot under the roof behind the shop. Justin said he was eager to work on the trailer and would be in touch after he got back from the Pismo Beach Rally in late May.
By 8pm it was already 31 degrees and it was bitterly cold with the wind. I was done for the day.
I checked my computer and found that I had more pictures of the Nash. I still think it's a great car, but as my brother pointed out it is a project and just how many projects can I take on? It's a very good point but I still think I need to consider looking at it.
Day 268, Wednesday
This morning was beautiful and not as bitterly cold as yesterday, it was actually 30, instead of 22. Okay, so it was still cold but the sunshine and clear skies made up for the cold.
Work was busy as usual, and I worked through my lunch, so I could go to my workout at 4:15pm. Today for the first part of the workout we were going to go for a run. I was really looking forwarded to getting out in the sun and breathing in the fresh air. My trainer has an intern who is learning the ropes and he has been helping out and pushing me to do even better. We ran for about two miles and then they made me do sprints where I would ran as fast as I could for 30 seconds and then jog for 30, etc. I managed to keep up and not pass out from lack of air which for me is amazing. After the run we did some upper body and then some stretching, which was greatly needed.
On my way home I stopped off to see my trailer and to see Justin's 1954 Bel Air, but he didn't bring it. My trailer was there and Justin had some time to look at it and the determine the extent of the water damage. The verdict was that it was a great little trailer with extensive wood damage and rot, but he won't know the extent of the damage until he pulls it apart. He believes it will need substantial frame repair, flooring, all new electrical, many new windows etc. He quoted me a very lose ball park figure and I was thrilled! It was right where I figured it would be. Of course this number could go down or up depending on what he finds once they pull it apart.
Justin will be bringing the trailer back tomorrow and he is focused on finishing up his Westwood in time for the big vintage RV show in Pismo Beach California on the 17th. When he returns he wants to talk about the trailer and getting it in. He estimates it will take between 3 to 4 weeks to completely rebuild. He is so busy I told him I would love to have done, but if he wants to work on it in between others I would understand. He appreciates the flexibility and having someone who is easy to work with.
I have still been thinking about the 1951 Nash Ambassador Super Airflyte and how great it would look pulling the trailer. My brother in Portland totally gets it and talked about how fun it would be to take it to Yellowstone National Park. That would be an unbelievable experience and a trip of a lifetime. We texted each other back and forth and sent several vintage photos of Yellowstone to capture the feel of what that experience would be like.
Back at home I let the chickens out, which made them very happy. I check the coop and they only laid 3 eggs. I can't figure out what is causing the sporadic egg laying and low production.
It was a very nice day and I was ready to turn in early.
Work was busy as usual, and I worked through my lunch, so I could go to my workout at 4:15pm. Today for the first part of the workout we were going to go for a run. I was really looking forwarded to getting out in the sun and breathing in the fresh air. My trainer has an intern who is learning the ropes and he has been helping out and pushing me to do even better. We ran for about two miles and then they made me do sprints where I would ran as fast as I could for 30 seconds and then jog for 30, etc. I managed to keep up and not pass out from lack of air which for me is amazing. After the run we did some upper body and then some stretching, which was greatly needed.
On my way home I stopped off to see my trailer and to see Justin's 1954 Bel Air, but he didn't bring it. My trailer was there and Justin had some time to look at it and the determine the extent of the water damage. The verdict was that it was a great little trailer with extensive wood damage and rot, but he won't know the extent of the damage until he pulls it apart. He believes it will need substantial frame repair, flooring, all new electrical, many new windows etc. He quoted me a very lose ball park figure and I was thrilled! It was right where I figured it would be. Of course this number could go down or up depending on what he finds once they pull it apart.
Justin will be bringing the trailer back tomorrow and he is focused on finishing up his Westwood in time for the big vintage RV show in Pismo Beach California on the 17th. When he returns he wants to talk about the trailer and getting it in. He estimates it will take between 3 to 4 weeks to completely rebuild. He is so busy I told him I would love to have done, but if he wants to work on it in between others I would understand. He appreciates the flexibility and having someone who is easy to work with.
I have still been thinking about the 1951 Nash Ambassador Super Airflyte and how great it would look pulling the trailer. My brother in Portland totally gets it and talked about how fun it would be to take it to Yellowstone National Park. That would be an unbelievable experience and a trip of a lifetime. We texted each other back and forth and sent several vintage photos of Yellowstone to capture the feel of what that experience would be like.
Back at home I let the chickens out, which made them very happy. I check the coop and they only laid 3 eggs. I can't figure out what is causing the sporadic egg laying and low production.
It was a very nice day and I was ready to turn in early.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Day 267, Tuesday April 26
Not a very exciting day, but it was sunny and a nice change from yesterday. The overnight low was 22 and when I drove to work it was 27. I like to be postive about each day and start off with a good attitude, but today I was a little tired of the cold.
Work was busy with an Excutive Board meeting over the lunch hour and the highlight was having lunch from Baldy's BBQ. I spent most of the day writing my monthly news article, scheduling the speakers for May's Leadership class and sorting through papers on my desk.
It was also, workout day, so I left the office and had a phone conference on the way to the gym. The meeting was frustrating to say the least and this group actually thinks they don't need follow Roberts Rules of order or any rules for that mater; I was dumbfounded. These people who I respect, basicly said they didn't want rules, because that would mean they would have to follow them. I'm all about professionalism and transparency and this was a blaintent slap in the face to both. I was late for the gym and beyond disappointed in this Board.
My trainer tried to get my mind off my meeting, but I'm affraid I was too disappointed and upset. I usually can keep a good perspective and set my boundaries but this was too much. I worked up a good sweat and my tardiness meant I only got a half hour workout.
I stopped off at Costco on my way home, pickimg up a few items and then heading home. I was ready to forget the work day and unwind. I let the chickens out, they always make me chuckle and I collected 3 eggs. I don let work into my home so I forced myself to forget my frustrations of the day.
Work was busy with an Excutive Board meeting over the lunch hour and the highlight was having lunch from Baldy's BBQ. I spent most of the day writing my monthly news article, scheduling the speakers for May's Leadership class and sorting through papers on my desk.
It was also, workout day, so I left the office and had a phone conference on the way to the gym. The meeting was frustrating to say the least and this group actually thinks they don't need follow Roberts Rules of order or any rules for that mater; I was dumbfounded. These people who I respect, basicly said they didn't want rules, because that would mean they would have to follow them. I'm all about professionalism and transparency and this was a blaintent slap in the face to both. I was late for the gym and beyond disappointed in this Board.
My trainer tried to get my mind off my meeting, but I'm affraid I was too disappointed and upset. I usually can keep a good perspective and set my boundaries but this was too much. I worked up a good sweat and my tardiness meant I only got a half hour workout.
I stopped off at Costco on my way home, pickimg up a few items and then heading home. I was ready to forget the work day and unwind. I let the chickens out, they always make me chuckle and I collected 3 eggs. I don let work into my home so I forced myself to forget my frustrations of the day.
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| A 1951 Nash Ambassador Super would look awesome pulling the Traveleze trailer. |
At 8pm I received a phone call from a person who I had emailed about a car for sale. He was selling his 1951 Nash Ambassador Super, which is quite possibly the ugliest car ever made, but it would be perfect for pulling the trailer. The shape is awesome, and it extremely unusual in both form and function. He told me the car is not perfect and that it looked better in pictures. It needs chrome work, driver floor repaird, interior and possibly paint. It is however a great driver, that you can have fun with until you deside to do a full restoration. Mechanically it is very sound, drives great and gets over 22 mpg on the highway. The unique thing about the car is that the seats fold down into a bed and the car even comes with a bug screen for the window when camping.
I soon had forgotten all my cares and could go to bed with vissions of a 1950 Traveleze trailer being pulled by a 1951 Nash.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Day 266, Monday April 25, and it's snowing
The Monday morning alarm went off and when I put my glasses on and looked out the window it was spitting snow. Winter just does not want to let go and I wanted to pull the covers over my head and wake up when summer arrives. It was going to snow off and on all day and it was a typical spring day with rain, snow, sleet and sunshine.
At 1pm I ran home for lunch and the winds were so strong I was wondering if their might be damage. The trees were moving and the house was popping. I usually let the chickens out at lunch, but it was just too windy and I figured they would be better if they stayed in. I had gone to the feed store on my way home, so I had a fresh bag of cracked corn and filled their feeder clear full. I gathered 5 eggs so after a long dry spell, production was looking better.
There was no word on the trailer today, but tomorrow I plan on stopping by to take a look at a car Justin has, a 1954 Chevy Bel Air 2 door sedan. I've been looking for something to pull my trailer and Justin just happen to have this car and is thinking of selling it. Who knows, this might be the car that I have been looking for, I'll give it a look over tomorrow.
It was a blustery day and winter weather blew back in with full force. The only sign of spring was the fact that the lawn is now green and the daffodils are blooming.
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| 1954 Chevy Bel Air |
At 1pm I ran home for lunch and the winds were so strong I was wondering if their might be damage. The trees were moving and the house was popping. I usually let the chickens out at lunch, but it was just too windy and I figured they would be better if they stayed in. I had gone to the feed store on my way home, so I had a fresh bag of cracked corn and filled their feeder clear full. I gathered 5 eggs so after a long dry spell, production was looking better.
There was no word on the trailer today, but tomorrow I plan on stopping by to take a look at a car Justin has, a 1954 Chevy Bel Air 2 door sedan. I've been looking for something to pull my trailer and Justin just happen to have this car and is thinking of selling it. Who knows, this might be the car that I have been looking for, I'll give it a look over tomorrow.
It was a blustery day and winter weather blew back in with full force. The only sign of spring was the fact that the lawn is now green and the daffodils are blooming.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Day 265 Happy Easter
Sunday morning was cloudy and rainy. I got ready to go to church and drove part way there in a complete downpour. It was a far cry from yesterday, but I remember many an Easter, where it rained, hailed and was sunny all in the same day.
The rest of the day I spent working in the garage and restoring two interior lights for the Packard. I purchased the lights at the Portland Swap Meet and they needed to be cleaned up. I pulled them apart and then used a copper wire wheel brush to polish off the rust and tarnish. They cleaned up great, and now all I need to do is hook them up, so that when the doors open they come on, but that will have to wait until another day.
It turned out to be another nice day, not as warm as yesterday, but still very nice. At 8pm I went for my run and then I cam home for a late dinner of ham, spinach salad, baked potato and ugly deviled eggs.
Happy Easter
By the time I got home it was turning out to be a fairly nice day. I got home and let the chickens out and they had laid 3 eggs. I gathered them up and added them to the batch in the refrigerator. Since it was Easter I figured I should make some deviled eggs. You wouldn't think it would be that difficult to hard boil eggs, but every time I do, something goes wrong. I have been told to boil eggs for ten minutes once the water starts boiling. The last batch didn't turn out done enough, so today I'm going to boil them for 12 minutes.
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| Boiling eggs |
The eggs boiled for 12 minutes and I pulled them off the stove and then ran cold water over them cooling them quickly. I then put them in the refrigerator for later. When I came back to them and started peeling them the shell did not want to let go of the shell. I peeled half a dozen and some were soft and the other just held tight to the shell, they were a mess. I got enough to make some deviled eggs, but they looked horrible, I need my mom! I know the eggs were fresh, as I had just gathered them from the coop. How hard can it be to boil water with eggs in it. The next time I boil eggs I'll boil them for 15 minutes and see if that makes a difference.
The rest of the day I spent working in the garage and restoring two interior lights for the Packard. I purchased the lights at the Portland Swap Meet and they needed to be cleaned up. I pulled them apart and then used a copper wire wheel brush to polish off the rust and tarnish. They cleaned up great, and now all I need to do is hook them up, so that when the doors open they come on, but that will have to wait until another day.
It turned out to be another nice day, not as warm as yesterday, but still very nice. At 8pm I went for my run and then I cam home for a late dinner of ham, spinach salad, baked potato and ugly deviled eggs.
Happy Easter
Day 264, Saturday, May 23
It was the first day that actually felt like spring, the sun was shining, the birds were singing and for the first time in a long time, there wasn't that cold bite in the air. I'm sure there are still a few snow flakes left to come before summer gets here, but it was nice to feel the sun and not need a coat.
There were plenty of chores to do outside, raking the yard, pulling weeds, picking up pine cones, mowing the lawn and blowing the bark-dust out of the gravel paths (thanks to the chickens).
The Chickens had laid 4 eggs by 10am, so I let them out to enjoy the day. They really are amazing little creatures and love to be near me when I'm out in the yard. I think they know where their main source of food comes from, but still it's fun to have them around.
I had several errands to run in town too, so I fired up the old Packard and put the top down. I turned on the oldies music (i Pod Shuffle) and ran to town. It was really a beautiful day.
When I got back home, I decided with the trailer at the restoration shop, I could move the pickup behind the shop and pull the BMW out of storage. All of the cars are on battery chargers, so I unplugged the charger, but when I went to start the car there were no lights. The battery was dead! BMW batteries are over $300 and they last about 3 years. I was not going to buy another one, so I called Sears and while they couldn't find one for my car, he said if I brought the battery in we could size one up. I thought "great", so I went to jump in the Cadillac, and its' battery was dead too. I had forgotten to put the charger on it and it had been sitting for over a month, ugh! I knew the pickup was working, so I loaded the battery up and off I went.
I arrived a Sears 20 minutes later and within a few minutes we had found a battery with the same dimensions, cranking amps and reserve charge. I was soon back on my way home and I had the battery in place in no time. With a turn of the key the car fired right up. The fuel gauge was reading nearly empty, which is not good for storing a car (can't believe I did that), so I went to fill the car up with premium fuel. With premium at a $4.15 a gallon I was happy it only took 11 gallons. This is by far my most fuel efficient car I have, so I will probably driving it a lot more as fuel prices climb for summer.
With all of my chores done and the sun sinking low on the horizon, I decided it was time to go for a run. It had been a perfect day.
There were plenty of chores to do outside, raking the yard, pulling weeds, picking up pine cones, mowing the lawn and blowing the bark-dust out of the gravel paths (thanks to the chickens).
The Chickens had laid 4 eggs by 10am, so I let them out to enjoy the day. They really are amazing little creatures and love to be near me when I'm out in the yard. I think they know where their main source of food comes from, but still it's fun to have them around.
I had several errands to run in town too, so I fired up the old Packard and put the top down. I turned on the oldies music (i Pod Shuffle) and ran to town. It was really a beautiful day.
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| With a new Sears Die Hard battery, she's ready to go for summer, when and if it ever arrives. |
I arrived a Sears 20 minutes later and within a few minutes we had found a battery with the same dimensions, cranking amps and reserve charge. I was soon back on my way home and I had the battery in place in no time. With a turn of the key the car fired right up. The fuel gauge was reading nearly empty, which is not good for storing a car (can't believe I did that), so I went to fill the car up with premium fuel. With premium at a $4.15 a gallon I was happy it only took 11 gallons. This is by far my most fuel efficient car I have, so I will probably driving it a lot more as fuel prices climb for summer.
With all of my chores done and the sun sinking low on the horizon, I decided it was time to go for a run. It had been a perfect day.
Day 263, Friday
In Thursday's mail, I had received the 1990 Rolls Royce Service Manual on CD and I was anxious to get to Lance, to see if it would help him with the cruise control and now airbag light. I called him and said I would drop it off on my lunch break which I take at 1pm. He was excited and hoped it would have the information he needed. I think after 6 month, he is getting a little tired of having my car take up space in his shop.
After dropping off the CD, I wanted to take a quick trip to look at a trailer that I have been driving past for years. It only took me 5 minutes to get there and the owner of the trailer was sitting out in front of his business soaking up the sun. When I got out of the car he asked if he could help me and I asked if I could look at his trailer. He said it was not for sale, but sure I could look at it. I asked him what year it was and he wasn't sure, but he knew his Dad bought new and that he had it when he bought the property back in 1957. I guessed it was a 1955, and it looked like it was 19' to 20' and it said Terry on the front so that part was easy. It has two doors and has been sitting in the same spot for nearly 60 years. The paint has faded but the siding was perfect with no dents, not even hail damage.
I ended up spending about 40 minutes chatting with the guy (Bill) and I really enjoyed talking with him. He is quite a character and has lots of stories about the area. When I left I asked him to add my name to the long list of people who want the trailer if he ever decides to sell it. He laughed and said he would.
I was a little late getting back to the office, but it was Friday and I had a long day the day before. I had still had thank you notes to get out to yesterdays speakers and then the day was pretty much done.
At 6pm I was to meet Tracy, her friend Lorraine and her boys Eddie and Brock at the movies. We were going to see Hop, which seemed appropriate since Easter is on Sunday. It was fun movie and we topped it off with ice cream afterwords.
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| 195? Terry |
I ended up spending about 40 minutes chatting with the guy (Bill) and I really enjoyed talking with him. He is quite a character and has lots of stories about the area. When I left I asked him to add my name to the long list of people who want the trailer if he ever decides to sell it. He laughed and said he would.
I was a little late getting back to the office, but it was Friday and I had a long day the day before. I had still had thank you notes to get out to yesterdays speakers and then the day was pretty much done.
At 6pm I was to meet Tracy, her friend Lorraine and her boys Eddie and Brock at the movies. We were going to see Hop, which seemed appropriate since Easter is on Sunday. It was fun movie and we topped it off with ice cream afterwords.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Day 262, Thursday Leadership
I was out the door at 7am to run some errands before the Leadership program began at 8am. I needed donuts, coffee, fresh fruit, bottled water, and other snacks to get us through the day.
The day started off with a tour of the Fire Department, then the Police Department, then lunch, and then a drive to Bend to meet with the District Attorney, the Sheriff and to take a tour of the County Jail. It was a long day and the tour of the jail actually went 45 minutes longer than scheduled, ending at 5:30pm. No one complained because the information and tour was outstanding. By the time I got back to the office, unloaded my truck and got home it was 6:45pm. It was a great day and I think everyone learned a lot, I know I did, and this is my 6th year running the program.
It was nice to be home and to be able to changed into more comfortable cloths, and the first thing I wanted to do was check on the chickens and let them out. They only laid 3 eggs, so production is definitely down. My friend Tracy had called and wanted to bring her friend Lorraine from Portland and her two boys Eddie and Brock over to see they chickens. They had never feed chickens by hand or collected fresh eggs from a coup, so Tracy thought this would be fun for them. They arrived shortly after 7pm and the chickens were running around having a great time in the yard. We fed them crackers and collected the 3 eggs and the boys had a great time. It was hard to believe that it was April 21, as the temperature had already dropped into the 30's, burr, so our time with the chickens was kept short.
After everyone left, I grabbed a bite to eat and then started doing my laundry. I get the clothes done Thursday night, peel the sheets off the bed Friday morning and by Friday evening all my laundry is done just as the weekend begins. The best part is clean sheets Friday night and laying in bed on Saturday morning.
The day started off with a tour of the Fire Department, then the Police Department, then lunch, and then a drive to Bend to meet with the District Attorney, the Sheriff and to take a tour of the County Jail. It was a long day and the tour of the jail actually went 45 minutes longer than scheduled, ending at 5:30pm. No one complained because the information and tour was outstanding. By the time I got back to the office, unloaded my truck and got home it was 6:45pm. It was a great day and I think everyone learned a lot, I know I did, and this is my 6th year running the program.
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| hungry chickens |
After everyone left, I grabbed a bite to eat and then started doing my laundry. I get the clothes done Thursday night, peel the sheets off the bed Friday morning and by Friday evening all my laundry is done just as the weekend begins. The best part is clean sheets Friday night and laying in bed on Saturday morning.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Day 261, Wednesday
The morning started off gray and very cold, with heavy frost blanketing everything. It was a complete contrast to yesterday, but its a typical string day on the high desert.
The work day was back to back meetings, which made the day fly by. Tomorrow will be my monthly Leadership program which I facilitate, so again it will be a full day. We always provide snacks and a continental breakfast, so I needed to run to the store to do some shopping.
I ended the day with my workout, which would normally be on Thursday, but has been displaced due to the Leadership program .
The chickens only laid three eggs and I let them out when I got home, so they could spend a couple hours out in the yard. I'm not sure what has happened to their production but they are not producing.
The work day was back to back meetings, which made the day fly by. Tomorrow will be my monthly Leadership program which I facilitate, so again it will be a full day. We always provide snacks and a continental breakfast, so I needed to run to the store to do some shopping.
I ended the day with my workout, which would normally be on Thursday, but has been displaced due to the Leadership program .
The chickens only laid three eggs and I let them out when I got home, so they could spend a couple hours out in the yard. I'm not sure what has happened to their production but they are not producing.
Day 260, The Traveleze comes out of hibernation
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The Traveleze hooked and ready to head to Bend. |
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Heading down the long drive and one step closer to restoration. |
I had forgotten what a great shape this little trailer has and when I pulled it out from behind the shop, I couldn't help but think, what a neat little trailer. I even think Justin liked it more than he remembered. We talked about its shape, we looked at all the flaws and we discussed the many possibilities for it's restoration; and with the Traveleze firmly hooked to Justin's Dodge, the little trailer rolled down my driveway for the first time in 8 months.
Today was my workout day and with the weather being so nice, we decided to go for a run. This was my best run to-date, with my lungs performing great and my legs holding up with no problems. I think we ran a little over 3 miles in about 27 minutes, which was my best time so far. It was an awesome feeling, to be able to breath and to be able to run again.
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The 1950 Traveleze behind the 1950 Anderson at Flyte Camp Vintage Trailer Restoration in Bend, OR, both in need of a little TLC. |
Following my workout I couldn't help but drive over to Flyte Camp and see my trailer and the many awesome projects that Justin and his team were working on. I am so envious of their talent and ability to restore these beautiful rolling works of art. These guys are amazing and gave me a complete tour. I really appreciate what they do and feel very comfortable having them working on my trailer. I wanted to give Justin a small token of my appreciation, so I had brought a dozen eggs from my chickens. Nothing says, thank you, better than farm fresh eggs. Well, cash works too, but that will come after the restoration.
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| A 1963 Shasta undergoing a complete restoration. |
It was a great day and I look forward to hearing Justin's thoughts on my trailer after he has a chance to dig into it and asses the extent of deterioration.
Back at home the chickens had spent the afternoon out in the yard and they only laid 2 eggs, or did they lay some out in the yard? Tomorrow I am going to leave them in the pen until I get home after work and my workout. They always lay their eggs by early afternoon and I'll see if there are more than two.
I have the Leadership program on Thursday so I'll be working out again on Wednesday, and maybe stopping by Flyte Camp.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Day 259, Monday and trailer pick up day.
Monday morning came early in the predawn hours of 4am, as I was awoken to the sound of cat trying to hack up a hairball in the other room. I jumped out of bed, turned on the light and ran to the other room just to get there to see he cat hack all over the tile floor. This was a mixed event, on one hand he hacked up the mess on the tile floor and not the carpet, but on the other hand I still had to clean it up. I decided that the good out weighed the bad and quickly cleaned it up and went back to bed.
Work was busy, and I had memorial service to go to in the afternoon for a wonderful man who had really contributed to development of the community. There was also a service in the morning for the wife of a gentleman I serve on a Board with. I think one service was all I can manage in a day but my thoughts and prayers are with both families for the loss of their loved ones.
As for the trailer today was not going to be the day, but tomorrow at 10:30am is. I am just so ready to find out what it's going to take to get this trailer back to functional and restore its charm.
At 3:15pm I left for the service that was to start at 3:33pm. It was a wonderful tribute and lengthy, with the eulogy ending at 5:30pm. I couldn't help but think what a life well lived and done well.
The day was absolutely beautiful and even though it was sunny with blue skies it was cold. I spent a few minutes working on the trailer getting it ready for tomorrow and clearing everything out of the way. Tomorrow will be a big day in the life of the Traveleze. Hopefully once at the restoration shop we can find out how bad the damage is and what it will take to get it back on the road.
Work was busy, and I had memorial service to go to in the afternoon for a wonderful man who had really contributed to development of the community. There was also a service in the morning for the wife of a gentleman I serve on a Board with. I think one service was all I can manage in a day but my thoughts and prayers are with both families for the loss of their loved ones.
As for the trailer today was not going to be the day, but tomorrow at 10:30am is. I am just so ready to find out what it's going to take to get this trailer back to functional and restore its charm.
At 3:15pm I left for the service that was to start at 3:33pm. It was a wonderful tribute and lengthy, with the eulogy ending at 5:30pm. I couldn't help but think what a life well lived and done well.
The day was absolutely beautiful and even though it was sunny with blue skies it was cold. I spent a few minutes working on the trailer getting it ready for tomorrow and clearing everything out of the way. Tomorrow will be a big day in the life of the Traveleze. Hopefully once at the restoration shop we can find out how bad the damage is and what it will take to get it back on the road.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Day 258, Sunday
It was anther typical Sunday, a few house keeping chores in the morning and then off to church. This is Palm Sunday, so the service was actually a performance and narration of the crucifixion as performed by the church choir. They did an outstanding job!
After church I worked a little more around the house and out in the yard. My brother spent most of the day over on the 40 acres and he and my nephews got most of the trees and the holes around them all filled in with dirt. They even gave them all more water, which I'm sure they appreciated. I walked down the row of trees and straighten a few up and took off all the tags that were on them from the nursery.
The chickens spent most of the day outside and made a huge mess in the yard and in the courtyard at the front door, tossing bark dust everywhere. I was not happy, but after a few minutes with a broom and the garden hose I had the place looking good again. They only laid 2 eggs, the slackers.
I went for my run at about 7:50pm and it felt good to get the exercise in, but it was starting to get cold, so I was glad to get home.
After church I worked a little more around the house and out in the yard. My brother spent most of the day over on the 40 acres and he and my nephews got most of the trees and the holes around them all filled in with dirt. They even gave them all more water, which I'm sure they appreciated. I walked down the row of trees and straighten a few up and took off all the tags that were on them from the nursery.
The chickens spent most of the day outside and made a huge mess in the yard and in the courtyard at the front door, tossing bark dust everywhere. I was not happy, but after a few minutes with a broom and the garden hose I had the place looking good again. They only laid 2 eggs, the slackers.
I went for my run at about 7:50pm and it felt good to get the exercise in, but it was starting to get cold, so I was glad to get home.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Day 257, First car show of the season
By the time I got home around 2:15pm the trees had arrived across the street and my brother, his boys and a few hired hands were unloading the 14 trees. Each tree was estimated to weigh about 900 lbs and it took the help of a forklift and small tractor to get them all in place. I parked the Packard the head of the driveway and went to help.
After about an hour of carefully placing and back-filling, each tree was now in its new home. Tomorrow we will have to do a bit more straightening and added lots of water to make sure they are happy in their new home. On Monday the gentleman who is farming the land will help my brother place an irrigation line to drip water the trees and we will flood them to make sure they have all the water they need to rooted.
At 5pm I was to be at my good friend, Mary Ann's, 40th Birthday party. I had just enough time to shower and get ready to go. Mary Ann was going to get a dozen eggs from chickens and a large orange feathered chic taped on top from my friend Tracy and me as our gift. I'm sure it was going to be a great time.
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| The first outdoor car show of the season |
Saturday, April 16, 2011 marks the first outdoor car show of the season and the weather looked like it was going to cooperate. I had washed the Packard the weekend before, so it was ready to go. Registration began at 9am and the show runs until 2pm. I planned on being downtown shortly after 9am, so I had a nice leisurely morning waking up.
The show had approximately 112 cars and I was number 105. The temperature was in the low 50's and there was no wind, so it was actually very enjoyable. The sun tried to burn through high clouds, but there was just enough overcast that it never fully made it out.
I had lots of people stop and look at the Packard and it was fun hearing their stories about once having a Packard back in the day. Many people had no idea of the story behind the Packard Motor Car company, or that they were once the top of the line in luxury automobile in the world. At 1:30pm they had the awards ceremony and the Packard took 2nd Place in the all "stock" category.
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| New trees on the 40 acres |
By the time I got home around 2:15pm the trees had arrived across the street and my brother, his boys and a few hired hands were unloading the 14 trees. Each tree was estimated to weigh about 900 lbs and it took the help of a forklift and small tractor to get them all in place. I parked the Packard the head of the driveway and went to help.
After about an hour of carefully placing and back-filling, each tree was now in its new home. Tomorrow we will have to do a bit more straightening and added lots of water to make sure they are happy in their new home. On Monday the gentleman who is farming the land will help my brother place an irrigation line to drip water the trees and we will flood them to make sure they have all the water they need to rooted.
At 5pm I was to be at my good friend, Mary Ann's, 40th Birthday party. I had just enough time to shower and get ready to go. Mary Ann was going to get a dozen eggs from chickens and a large orange feathered chic taped on top from my friend Tracy and me as our gift. I'm sure it was going to be a great time.
Day 256, TGIF
It has been one long week and today I'm supposed to drive to Albany for meeting. I just can't figure out how to justify driving 268 miles for a 2 hour meeting, so I decided to call in.
The meeting was at 10am to noon and the phone call in worked great. The meeting was a massive disappointment and to say I was upset, was an understatement. I'm all about following the rules and this group decided to break from Roberts Rules of Order and standard parliamentary procedures, removing two of us from the discussion and holding a vote without us. I plan to voice my extreme disappointment and expect the Board of this organization to address the issue. This must not be allowed to happen again, or I will simply will resign for the way they chose to operate using bad business practices. Needless to say the meeting was very disappointing and I was sad to see this meeting run in such an unprofessional manner.
The highlight of the day was the fact that it was Friday and the downtown was hosting a "Walk the Art Beat" event, where merchants hosted local artist. This event was all featuring local childcare's art from the schools. The weather cooperated and the event was a great success. I managed to get home around 8pm and I was very tired. It had been a long week.
The meeting was at 10am to noon and the phone call in worked great. The meeting was a massive disappointment and to say I was upset, was an understatement. I'm all about following the rules and this group decided to break from Roberts Rules of Order and standard parliamentary procedures, removing two of us from the discussion and holding a vote without us. I plan to voice my extreme disappointment and expect the Board of this organization to address the issue. This must not be allowed to happen again, or I will simply will resign for the way they chose to operate using bad business practices. Needless to say the meeting was very disappointing and I was sad to see this meeting run in such an unprofessional manner.
The highlight of the day was the fact that it was Friday and the downtown was hosting a "Walk the Art Beat" event, where merchants hosted local artist. This event was all featuring local childcare's art from the schools. The weather cooperated and the event was a great success. I managed to get home around 8pm and I was very tired. It had been a long week.
Day 255, Thursday
I was very hopefully that this would be the day the trailer would moved one step closer to a new life as a restored trailer. I was pretty excited that it was going to towed to the shop for a closer look, but by early afternoon I hadn't heard anything, so I sent a text. I received a texted back that he was on his way to Seattle to pick up a new trailer that he had purchased. My heart sank and I was truly disappointing. However, I can appreciate the need to jump on rare find of a new trailer and this one was a beauty.
I started to wonder that perhaps I'm a bit of a bother and he would rather not work on my trailer, or that perhaps he knows its not worth fixing and doesn't want to tell me. What I do know is I need to ask and just find out. I sent a text, providing an easy out and a chance to go our own ways, but I was assured that he did want to work on my trailer and to please be patient and he would pick it up by Monday - I had his word. I felt better and again had hope for the little trailer.
So with that, I went to my workout and the Traveleze will have to wait a little longer.
I started to wonder that perhaps I'm a bit of a bother and he would rather not work on my trailer, or that perhaps he knows its not worth fixing and doesn't want to tell me. What I do know is I need to ask and just find out. I sent a text, providing an easy out and a chance to go our own ways, but I was assured that he did want to work on my trailer and to please be patient and he would pick it up by Monday - I had his word. I felt better and again had hope for the little trailer.
So with that, I went to my workout and the Traveleze will have to wait a little longer.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Day 254, Wednesday and time to pay taxes
With April 15th on Friday, I wanted to get my taxes paid. I owed big time and I decided to get them in the mail today. At noon I ran to the Post Office and sent the payments certified mail. I know they won't sign for them but at least I had proof I sent them should something happen.
Next I needed to run to the DMV t see if I could a temporary trip permit for the trailer. Tomorrow is the Day that Justin is going to pick up my trailer and take it to his shop. He is going to look at it up close and see what exactly needs to be done and give me a cost estimate. While I know there are other trailers out there, I want this one. I want to see if finished and then if I decide to find something else I let it go, knowing that I took from trash to treasure.
As it turned out, I can't get another trip permit as you can only get one per year. This leaves me in a dilemma, in that I can go ahead and license the trailer for $120, but if Justin says the trailer isn't worth fixing, than I just licensed a big rolling trash can. I placed a call to Justin to see what he thought, but he was unavailable. I'll have to wait until tomorrow and see what he says. I might have to trailer a trailer to Bend.
Tonight I ran my loop in 20 minutes and I felt pretty good. Tomorrow for my workout we are going running along the river in Bend, so I'm looking forward to that. My trainer pushes me much faster than I normally run myself, so it's always real workout.
By the time I got home from my run the sun was down and the chickens had all gone back to the coop so I looked them up for the night.
It was a great day.
Next I needed to run to the DMV t see if I could a temporary trip permit for the trailer. Tomorrow is the Day that Justin is going to pick up my trailer and take it to his shop. He is going to look at it up close and see what exactly needs to be done and give me a cost estimate. While I know there are other trailers out there, I want this one. I want to see if finished and then if I decide to find something else I let it go, knowing that I took from trash to treasure.
As it turned out, I can't get another trip permit as you can only get one per year. This leaves me in a dilemma, in that I can go ahead and license the trailer for $120, but if Justin says the trailer isn't worth fixing, than I just licensed a big rolling trash can. I placed a call to Justin to see what he thought, but he was unavailable. I'll have to wait until tomorrow and see what he says. I might have to trailer a trailer to Bend.
Tonight I ran my loop in 20 minutes and I felt pretty good. Tomorrow for my workout we are going running along the river in Bend, so I'm looking forward to that. My trainer pushes me much faster than I normally run myself, so it's always real workout.
By the time I got home from my run the sun was down and the chickens had all gone back to the coop so I looked them up for the night.
It was a great day.
Day 253, Tuesday
It was nice to sleep in, as apposed to yesterday and getting up at 5am. Today was nothing but meetings and I was ready for my workout after sitting all day yesterday at a conference and drive for 5 hours.
Following my workout I had a Finance Committee meeting for the Son's of Norway. I had enough time after my workout to grab a protein shake at Safeway and then head to the meeting. The meeting lasted about an hour and half and then I headed to Costco to pick up a few items including more protein shakes, Laura Bars and Special K cereal.
My poor chickens had spent their second day in the coop, so tomorrow I plan on letting them out at lunch for an afternoon of freedom.
Following my workout I had a Finance Committee meeting for the Son's of Norway. I had enough time after my workout to grab a protein shake at Safeway and then head to the meeting. The meeting lasted about an hour and half and then I headed to Costco to pick up a few items including more protein shakes, Laura Bars and Special K cereal.
My poor chickens had spent their second day in the coop, so tomorrow I plan on letting them out at lunch for an afternoon of freedom.
Day 252, A drive to Eugene
My day started at 5am, as I got ready to drive to Eugene for the first full day of the Governor's Conference on Tourism. I needed to leave by 5:30am, in order to get there by the 8am breakfast. It was very cold and raining slightly as I left the house, so I was a bit concerned that I might run into snow on the mountain.
By the time I got to Sisters, it was snowing, so I knew the mountain pass was going to be a bit of trouble. When I passed Suttle Lake, it was snowing hard and I had to shift into 4 wheel drive. I was behind several cars and we were all driving about 30 mph. At the top of pass, about 5,500 feet, the roads were packed snow and it looked like January. There are two mountain passes to go over with in about 10 miles and soon I was heading down the western side of the Cascades.
I have driven this pass hundreds of times and know exactly how long it takes (2 hours and 15 minutes) and I know where the one hour mark is in both direction. I was about a half hour behind schedule, so I knew I was going to be late.
I got to the conference at 8:15am and I checked in and went to the breakfast session. I was only going to be at the conference for the day and I planned to leave by 6pm to get back home. The conference was a little repetitive and I had heard several of the speakers before, so I was not thrilled. The luncheon speaker was great, talking about Twittering and Facebook in the work place.
I left the conference at 6pm and stopped to get something to eat. The roads were better on top, but I still slowed way down as the temperature was 26 and the roads were slick with ice. I finally got home at 9pm; it was one long day.
I checked on the chickens and they laid 4 eggs...slackers.
By the time I got to Sisters, it was snowing, so I knew the mountain pass was going to be a bit of trouble. When I passed Suttle Lake, it was snowing hard and I had to shift into 4 wheel drive. I was behind several cars and we were all driving about 30 mph. At the top of pass, about 5,500 feet, the roads were packed snow and it looked like January. There are two mountain passes to go over with in about 10 miles and soon I was heading down the western side of the Cascades.
I have driven this pass hundreds of times and know exactly how long it takes (2 hours and 15 minutes) and I know where the one hour mark is in both direction. I was about a half hour behind schedule, so I knew I was going to be late.
I got to the conference at 8:15am and I checked in and went to the breakfast session. I was only going to be at the conference for the day and I planned to leave by 6pm to get back home. The conference was a little repetitive and I had heard several of the speakers before, so I was not thrilled. The luncheon speaker was great, talking about Twittering and Facebook in the work place.
I left the conference at 6pm and stopped to get something to eat. The roads were better on top, but I still slowed way down as the temperature was 26 and the roads were slick with ice. I finally got home at 9pm; it was one long day.
I checked on the chickens and they laid 4 eggs...slackers.
Day 251, Sunday, no call on the trailer
So Saturday I had discovered a 1954 Yellowstone trailer for sale in Ashland and I sent an inquiry into its availability, but today the add has been pulled. I had obviously gotten to it too late. What a neat looking trailer, it's was 19' with two doors and each door had a round porthole window. I have a feeling this will be on my "someday must own" list. It would be a great transition trailer, as I work towards my ultimate goal of a 1950, 30' Spartanette.
Sunday was nice enough to actually go outside and work in the yard. I was actually able to mow the lawn for the first time of the season. The yard always looks so much better after it's mowed, even if the lawn isn't exactly green yet. The mower sucked up the last few leaves of fall and all the pine needles that blew down over the winter. I have also learned that it sucks up chicken poop too.
The chickens enjoyed the day outside digging and making their usual mess. The egg production was at 6 for the day which was good.
I was able to wash the Packard and get her looking good again. Next weekend is the first car show of the season and I might be able to go down for part of the day.
As the sun started heading closer to the horizon I figured I had enough time to go for run. I ran my usual loop which is a little over 2 miles and half way there I ran into my friend and neighbor Jon, who was just leaving his house. He lives exactly 1 mile, so walked with him back to my house. I gave him a dozen eggs and headed home. I was feeling like I kind of cheated on my run so I thought I should run the loop again, which I did. I ran a total of 3 miles and walked 1.
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| A 1954 Yellowstone that got away. |
Sunday was nice enough to actually go outside and work in the yard. I was actually able to mow the lawn for the first time of the season. The yard always looks so much better after it's mowed, even if the lawn isn't exactly green yet. The mower sucked up the last few leaves of fall and all the pine needles that blew down over the winter. I have also learned that it sucks up chicken poop too.
The chickens enjoyed the day outside digging and making their usual mess. The egg production was at 6 for the day which was good.
I was able to wash the Packard and get her looking good again. Next weekend is the first car show of the season and I might be able to go down for part of the day.
As the sun started heading closer to the horizon I figured I had enough time to go for run. I ran my usual loop which is a little over 2 miles and half way there I ran into my friend and neighbor Jon, who was just leaving his house. He lives exactly 1 mile, so walked with him back to my house. I gave him a dozen eggs and headed home. I was feeling like I kind of cheated on my run so I thought I should run the loop again, which I did. I ran a total of 3 miles and walked 1.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Day 250, Saturday
As much as I wanted to spend the day outside working in the yard, there was still a cold wind and despite the sunshine it just wasn't that warm.
I spent the morning doing my inside chores and I even had some time to look for cars and trailers on line. I did find one very interesting trailer that I made an inquiry on and I hope to hear from the owner. This could change my entire thought process with the Traveleze and I might buy this new found trailer instead. I do feel I need to finish the Traveleze, but if this other trailer turns out to be what I hope it is, I'll sell the Traveleze.
In the afternoon I did manage to go outside an work on the yard a little and haul the cupola I built for the shed across the street to the shed. My brother has the shingles to finish it but hasn't brought them to me, so I figure he can put them on, once the cupola is up on the roof. I also ran some errands in town and bought gas for the John Deere mower, which hope to fire up tomorrow for the first time of the season.
The chickens spent the day out side and laid 6 eggs. Friday they only laid 2 eggs and it was time for talk if they kept that up, but with production back up I was feeling better.
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| The inside of a trailer I hope to buy. |
In the afternoon I did manage to go outside an work on the yard a little and haul the cupola I built for the shed across the street to the shed. My brother has the shingles to finish it but hasn't brought them to me, so I figure he can put them on, once the cupola is up on the roof. I also ran some errands in town and bought gas for the John Deere mower, which hope to fire up tomorrow for the first time of the season.
The chickens spent the day out side and laid 6 eggs. Friday they only laid 2 eggs and it was time for talk if they kept that up, but with production back up I was feeling better.
Day 249, Friday
Another Friday and it's cold and windy. The one positive note is that the lawn is starting to turn green after a long cold winter. This weekend I might even have to fire up the old John Deere mower and even out the green clumps.Tonight is a birthday party for a very close friend and we are all meeting for dinner at Red Dog Depot. I have been hungry all day, so not only am I looking forward to seeing good friends but I'm also looking forward to eating!
There a total of 8 of us for dinner and I had the fish-n-chips, which were excellent. It has been quite a while since we had all been together, so it was great to see everyone.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Day 248, more snow
It's hard to believe that it is indeed spring as the weather keeps telling me it is winter. With the high creeping up near 38 it was a very cold and windy day. Small storm fronts kept blowing in and at any given moment it could snowing, hailing or sleet. If you waited a few more minutes you might even see the sun, but it was still cold.
This was the second day of our training and we spent the morning learning how to better communicate and avoid stress. We finished the session a little before noon and the rest of day was pretty typical.
My workout was at 4:15pm and as I left Redmond it was snowing hard and looking like January. By the time I got Bend the black was behind me but heading this way. We had just enough time for a 25 minute run before the bad weather hit Bend and then we spent the rest of my time doing strength training and stretching.
At 6pm I had my monthly Sons of Norway meeting and didn't get home until 9:15pm. It was a long day and I was tired.
This was the second day of our training and we spent the morning learning how to better communicate and avoid stress. We finished the session a little before noon and the rest of day was pretty typical.
My workout was at 4:15pm and as I left Redmond it was snowing hard and looking like January. By the time I got Bend the black was behind me but heading this way. We had just enough time for a 25 minute run before the bad weather hit Bend and then we spent the rest of my time doing strength training and stretching.
At 6pm I had my monthly Sons of Norway meeting and didn't get home until 9:15pm. It was a long day and I was tired.
Day 247, It's snowing
I got to work and it started snowing like it was the dead of winter. The snow quickly started to cover the ground and we all feared that this might actually accumulate into something. Luckily after only about an hour it stopped snowing and started to clear up. By noon it was actually a very nice day but very cold.
I had driven the Mercedes to work and it got caught in the snow storm, so I needed to wash it and put it back in the garage. It was sunny and 37 degrees at 6pm. I washed the car quickly and nearly froze my hands off and got it put away as fast as I could. I was ready to go in and stay in.
Since I had the garden hose out, I let the water run for several hours to fill the pond. Over the winter the water level had really dropped and the fish needed a little attention.
Back inside I called on a Packard engine that was listed on Craigslist and it sounds like it would be perfect for my 120 convertible. I'm hoping to replace the engine that is in my car with a correct engine and add the overdrive transmission that I bought at the Portland Swap meet. Tomorrow I need to call a shipping company and see how expensive it might be have it shipped to Redmond, it might be cost prohibitive.
I had driven the Mercedes to work and it got caught in the snow storm, so I needed to wash it and put it back in the garage. It was sunny and 37 degrees at 6pm. I washed the car quickly and nearly froze my hands off and got it put away as fast as I could. I was ready to go in and stay in.
Since I had the garden hose out, I let the water run for several hours to fill the pond. Over the winter the water level had really dropped and the fish needed a little attention.
Back inside I called on a Packard engine that was listed on Craigslist and it sounds like it would be perfect for my 120 convertible. I'm hoping to replace the engine that is in my car with a correct engine and add the overdrive transmission that I bought at the Portland Swap meet. Tomorrow I need to call a shipping company and see how expensive it might be have it shipped to Redmond, it might be cost prohibitive.
Day 246, Tuesday and workout
Tuesday morning was deceivingly nice, but there was still a crisp bite in the air. At work we still has Christmas lights up in the trees at work and my co-worker and decided it was time they come down. It was a little cool, but the sun was nice and we got them down in no time.
My workout was at 4:30pm and it had been a week since my last visit. I did run a bit last week at the swap meet but I had a feeling I was really going to suffer. We went for a 20 minute run to get started and it felt great. Back at the gym we did a lot of stretching to help my back and to keep my calf from cramping up.
After working out I went to see the trailer guy and check on his progress with the 48 Westcraft. His crew had been working on it for weeks and was really starting to look great. His shop was full of projects and I was hoping there would be a chance that my trailer could get squeezed in at some point. He said he would come get it next week and they would start taking it part, so they can see what needs to be done. If the damage isn't too extensive and the price to repair it isn't cost prohibitive, I'd like to have he trailer done before June. He thought that might be possible, so I'll keep my fingers crossed.
My workout was at 4:30pm and it had been a week since my last visit. I did run a bit last week at the swap meet but I had a feeling I was really going to suffer. We went for a 20 minute run to get started and it felt great. Back at the gym we did a lot of stretching to help my back and to keep my calf from cramping up.
After working out I went to see the trailer guy and check on his progress with the 48 Westcraft. His crew had been working on it for weeks and was really starting to look great. His shop was full of projects and I was hoping there would be a chance that my trailer could get squeezed in at some point. He said he would come get it next week and they would start taking it part, so they can see what needs to be done. If the damage isn't too extensive and the price to repair it isn't cost prohibitive, I'd like to have he trailer done before June. He thought that might be possible, so I'll keep my fingers crossed.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Day 245, Monday April 4
After getting up early the last 4 days, it was awesome to get to sleep until 7am. I woke up feeling refreshed, but still feeling like I needed a day of rest.
Work was very busy and it was a good day. I came home to let the chickens out at noon and collected 4 eggs and then it was back to work.
The rest of the day flew by and I was home by 5:30pm. The first thing I needed to do was lay down! I took a 20 minute nap and then was ready to do a few things around the house. I also needed to run up to my brothers house and deliver a birthday card to my Nephew for his 13th birthday.
Work was very busy and it was a good day. I came home to let the chickens out at noon and collected 4 eggs and then it was back to work.
The rest of the day flew by and I was home by 5:30pm. The first thing I needed to do was lay down! I took a 20 minute nap and then was ready to do a few things around the house. I also needed to run up to my brothers house and deliver a birthday card to my Nephew for his 13th birthday.
Day 244, Sunday, last day of the meet and time to head home.
The Swap Meet opens an hour later today, so I got sleep in until 5:30am, YEAA. We all checked out at the front desk and we all took advantage of the hotel's continental breakfast.
The gates opened at 7am and this time we drove our over, so we could hook out trucks and haul everything home when the event was over at 1pm.
I had to walk every inch one last time just in case something showed that I hadn't seen before. I love this event every year and I was sad to see it come to an end once again. It's amazing how fast time flies and before I knew it was 1pm and we hooked up and hauling the 1966 Buick Skylark GS home to Redmond.
After dropping the car off and unloading all the unsold parts, Jon took me home at 5pm. I unpacked and started doing laundry. The lawn has started to turn green so I decided it was time to start up the sprinkler system. I also thought I should saw down one of the junipers that I had tied up after the snow flattened them.
It was nice to be home, but I missed my friends and the smell of car parts.
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| 1966 Buick Skylark GS, in primer ready for paint |
I had to walk every inch one last time just in case something showed that I hadn't seen before. I love this event every year and I was sad to see it come to an end once again. It's amazing how fast time flies and before I knew it was 1pm and we hooked up and hauling the 1966 Buick Skylark GS home to Redmond.
After dropping the car off and unloading all the unsold parts, Jon took me home at 5pm. I unpacked and started doing laundry. The lawn has started to turn green so I decided it was time to start up the sprinkler system. I also thought I should saw down one of the junipers that I had tied up after the snow flattened them.
It was nice to be home, but I missed my friends and the smell of car parts.
Day 243, Saturday and more car parts
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| Large trailer at P.I.R. |
The weather was cool and spitting rain. The forecast has was for showers all day but the sun did manage to show up every now and then.
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| Gretchen and Me |
The Swap meet closed at 5pm and we went back to the hotel. We had dinner reservations for 13 at 6:30pm which gave us time to clean up and rest a bit. I sat next to my friends Gretchen and Todd - awesome people! This is a great group of people and I enjoy seeing them all together once a year. This was my 18th Swap Meet!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Day 242, Friday at the Swap Meet
Today was the first full day at the swap meet and the weather was a little cool and overcast, but it was not raining. My alarm went off at 4:45am and I met Jon and Richard at 5am to go for breakfast. Following breakfast we caught a bus to the Expo C enter where Venders were let in at 6am. After setting up the booth with the parts that Jon brought, I was off to walk around and see what was at the meet.
There were a number of cars that caught my eye, including two 1950 Plymouth's, 2 door coupes, and a very unusual 1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan Town Sedan. The car needs a complete restoration but it is so unusual and rare that its worth restoring and it would look amazing pulling the Traveleze trailer.
Another car that really caught my eye was a complete restoration project and a car that looked like a total mess for $25,000, but it was a 1947 Cadillac Convertible. This car would take $50,000 to restore yet it would be worth over $100,000.
It was a long day of looking at cars and parts and the swap meet was open until 7pm. After closing down our booths we headed back to our hotel and 13 of us all went out to dinner
Tomorrow is another early morning, so bed time came early.
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| 1950 Plymouth |
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| 1949 Lincoln Cosmopolitan |
I walked around for about 3 hours and coverd a portion of the outside lots. I really didn't see many cars that would work for pulling the Traveleze trailer. I've been told that I really need a car with an 8 cylinder engine, to have the strength to pull the trailer. If I can find a 50's car with a modern engine and suspention would be the best, but I like original cars.
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| A huge project in a 1947 Cadillac convertible |
It was a long day of looking at cars and parts and the swap meet was open until 7pm. After closing down our booths we headed back to our hotel and 13 of us all went out to dinner
Tomorrow is another early morning, so bed time came early.
Day 241, Thursday and the start of the Portland Swap Meet
I think I look forward to the Portland Swap Meet more than Christmas. There is something about looking at endless cars and parts for four days. I have been going to this event for 18 years now and I never get tired of it. I'm hoping to that I might find a great car to buy that would I be able to pull the Traveleze with.
There is always a buzz of excitement getting to the swap meet and I can't wait to go see what's there. The meet covers acres and acres and thousands of cars and parts. My first run around turned up s few nice cars but nothing I thought I had to have.
By 6pm most of the venders had showed up but tomorrow will be the official opening of the event and lots more cars will arrive.
Our group went to Chinese for dinner and we had a great time. I was in bed by 9pm and the alarm was set for 4:15am.
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| 1966 Buick Skylark GS |
My friend Jon picked me up at 7:15am and we were on our way to Portland. We had several stopped before we were ready to hit the road. After getting a tire fixed on the car trailer and getting gas we finally heading to Portland. Jon was taking a 1966 Buick Skylark Gran Sport to sell and a bunch of parts. We arrived in Portland at 11:30am a minute before our friends from Eugene and Prineville showed up. By 12 noon we were heading to the swap meet to set up booths.
By 6pm most of the venders had showed up but tomorrow will be the official opening of the event and lots more cars will arrive.
Our group went to Chinese for dinner and we had a great time. I was in bed by 9pm and the alarm was set for 4:15am.
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