Hold That Thought .....

We interrupt the Ghost Town Trail to bring you this exciting news.  There's nothing better than meeting new RV friends along the byways and trails of the old West.  When I found out Doug Laning was parked at my all time favorite Empire Cattle Ranch, I was determined to make the trip out and say hello.

I travel these roads at least once every time I'm in Tucson, but had no idea there was actually places you could park, as in BLM land.  All I knew was nearby ranchers kept cattle here during the winter and spring.  

I can definitely see why.  The open expanse offers great feed for cattle and an amazing landscape to ride horses.  

I was a little surprised that the roads were not in better shape, with potholes everywhere.  People drive their RV's back here?

Then I came to Cienega Creek.  It wasn't the water but the five inch jump up the side of the concrete.  I'm not sure I have enough nerve to drive my rig down here.  I figured there would be a matching drop off on the other end.  No big deal for my Jeep, but OUCH in my rig.

Up the hill, I was surprised to find six or seven rigs parked all around the area.  This is WAY cool!!  Then I saw it ..... the White Lion .... parked about halfway up the hill in a perfect spot.  And there sat Doug and Yuma.  I've been reading his blog for several months and wanted to meet the guy who likes to hike as much as I do.  

Gosh ... he even dressed up real spiffy!!  I think he was a little surprised I actually showed up though.  After all, it isn't often a perfect stranger drives all that way to say hello.  Yuma greeted me with great enthusiasm.  What a sweetheart he is!!

We spent the next two hours talking like old friends while I scratched Yuma from head to toe.  In no time I got a nice sunburn from the wind and rays.  Really, I need to get sun a little more often!!  In the blink of an eye, it was time to head back home.  How time does fly when you're having fun.

You definitely need solar out here, although Doug said some people just ran their generators.  I've never thought solar would be cost effective for me because I'm not out in the boonies much.  I'm rethinking that now ... I would LOVE to park out here for a couple of weeks.  And Quartzsite!!!!!

On the way back home, I stopped to check out these beautiful flowers.  These would look very nice in my back yard.

Apparently a wild flower of some kind.  I'm going to the nursery to see if I can find some seed.  

Or maybe I should go take a look first.  Yesterday I found this magnificent fairy duster right out my front door.  I guess I won't be buying any more of those!!

I had a great time Doug.  Thanks for your hospitality.  It was nice to spend time with someone who loves animals as much as I do!!  That Yuma is the BEST!!

On my way out I drove through the camping area and was surprised to find two HUGE rigs, at least 40 footers.  I'm talking the fancy painted immaculately waxed rigs I would never expect to see here.  No doubt now, I'll be back with my motorhome next year.

I'll return to the Ghost Town Trail tomorrow.  Until then, I hope you have been blessed with toilet paper!!