Author: Stan.Cromlish (Page 4 of 5)

Summer RV Tour 2023: Brother Highway Beckoned

February 4, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Bertha, a 2015 Forest River Sunseeker 3200, provided me with two years of enjoyment on the road, and I sold her to a new owner to continue her journey. On March 31, 2023, I welcomed the newest member of the family – a 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA. A majestic road companion, that I have affectionately christened Bertie Bea. Bertie became my home away from home for my next journey along Brother Highway. We wove our way through the heart of America, seeing sights and visiting friends. When I first turned the key, Brother Highway beckoned, and Bertie Bea answered with a purr that promised countless adventures.

The Journey Begins

The journey unfolded from April 22, 2023, to September 3, 2023, carrying us through a tapestry of states – Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington. Each state offered a unique chapter, a patchwork quilt of experiences stitched together by the hum of the road beneath us.

Nebraska saw me visit Tim Brewster and hang out for a week in Kearney, Nebraska. It was off the Cheyenne, where I visited the rodeo grounds of the Daddy of’em All, Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo. The week was spent preparing for the first epic stop of the trip, Alcova, Wyoming, and the chance to fish the epic Grey Reef section of the North Platte River.

The sun danced on the waters of the North Platte River, and the promise of a day filled with fishing adventures beckoned. Brian and Rowdy, my trusty companions, and I shared laughter, stories, and the thrill of reeling in catches against the scenic backdrop of the river. To learn how I earned my new handle, Mr. Botangles, check out my post about our epic day on the waters of the Grey Reef Section of the North Platte River – An Unforgettable Day on the North Platte with Rowdy and Brian.

Next on the map was Kaycee, Wyoming, the hometown of the legendary rodeo cowboy and musician, Chris Ledoux. Chris’ son Ned continues delivering the music that drives my passion for life on the road and living the western lifestyle. A visit with Larry Sandvick added a touch of rodeo flair to Bertie Bea. The bareback rigging coozies I picked up became cherished souvenirs, serving as a nod to the spirit of the West.

Cody, Wyoming, became a rendezvous with a couple of old friends, Sid McFarland, a rodeo clown from Prattville, Alabama, and Timber Tuckness from Meeteetse, Wyoming. Sid’s fiftieth year in the rodeo business infused the legendary Cody Night Rodeo with nostalgia, where he performed from Memorial Day through August 9. Sid’s professional antics kept the crowd in stitches, and his fire truck act left the crowd wanting more each night. For two weeks, we shared laughs, applause, and stories beneath the starlit Wyoming sky until the call of the road beckoned me to continue my journey along Brother Highway.

Melrose, Montana, and the Sportsman Lodging and RV Park introduced a new challenge – my first back-in parking spot for the 36-foot Bertie Bea. The skies threatened rain, adding an extra layer of complexity. A decision to leave early and camp at Indian Creek Campground in Deer Lodge, Montana, spared us the potential mud wrestling match.

Loon Lake, Washington, presented a humorous twist in our journey. The camping spot at Teri and Paul’s lake house was a challenge – a narrow driveway, a tight parking space, and the need for precise maneuvering. Describing the process of backing a colossal RV into a postage stamp spot became a tale of comedic trials, turning what could have been a stressful situation into an adventure punctuated by laughter.

Spending two weeks with Teri, Paul, and their son Grayson on Deer Lake brought a deeper connection. Fishing off their dock, exploring the scenic wonders of Central Washington, and sharing stories added warmth to the journey. The humor and camaraderie infused the journey with memories that would linger long after the road ahead unfolded.

Brother Highway called, and after spending the week of the fourth of July in Washington, I started the journey east towards Idaho.

The road beckoned me in the Summer of 2023 and the trip was one of not only seeing what was around the next bend but fishing pristine waters along with hanging with old friends and new. From Belmont, North Carolina to Loon Lake, Washington, Bertie Bea and Brother Highway kept me excited about what life will hold over the next hill or around the next curve. Follow your dreams and look for the next installment of Life on the Road during the Summer 2023 RV Tour.

Protect Your RV from Water Issues

January 27, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

In the past three years, I have learned much about protecting Bessie, Bertha, and Bertie Bea from water and temperature changes. Bertha received a new roof from Flex Armor Greensboro, and Bertie Bea has received regular maintenance since I bought her in March 2023.

What do you do while you live in the RV full-time?

For Bertie Bea, I have added water leak sensors from AiDot in strategic places to ensure no water infiltration. And, if they alarm, drying the areas out as quickly as possible. The water leak sensor under the shower has gone off several times due to a lousy shower seal. I will be fixing the shower seal shortly to resolve this issue.

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Shower Water Lines and Shower Bay

AIDot Water Leak Sensor Under Sink Water Lines

The AiDot Water Leak Sensor System includes a WiFi-enabled hub and three water leak sensors that allow you to set them where you need them to monitor for water leaks. I can attest that the alarm will definitely get your attention along with the push notifications and text messages so that you know exactly where water is infiltrating. The AiDot mobile application gives you all the data to keep your RV safe from water issues.

AiDot Water Leak Sensor Information as seen in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

AiDot Water Leak Sensor leak notification information in the AiDot iPhone mobile application

Water issues can ruin any trip to your home away from home, but with strategic water leak sensors, you can ensure your space is safe from water leaks. Ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your space from water issues.

*This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you purchase after clicking on one of these links

Bertie Bea at Kick Back Ranch & Event Center

Cold Weather RV Preparation

January 16, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When traveling in the RV in the winter, you must pay attention to the weather because cold weather can affect every system, especially the water system. Through trial and error, including freezing my water pressure regulator, I have been able to mitigate most cold weather issues in Bertie Bea.

Heat

Heat in the RV can either be provided by a propane or diesel fuel furnace or an electric heat pump. In Bertie Bea, there is an electric heat pump that works well when outside temperatures are over 40 degrees Fahrenheit and a propane furnace. Built into the heat pump is a feature that allows propane heat assist, which will automatically switch to the propane furnace. Eighty-five percent of the time, I leave the propane assist feature turned off and supplement it with electric space heaters. But, with the temperatures of the next few days being forecast in the high teens and low twenties, I will opt for the propane assist feature in order to keep the interior of the RV at least sixty-five degrees. I’ll supplement it with the space heater.

Water

With temperatures being below freezing for several days, there are several options when it comes to handling water. I’ve figured out the best method is to just fill up the freshwater tank. Bertie Bea can hold 70 gallons of water on-board which is plenty for three or four days unless running the washing machine. The evening before overnight temps are going to drop below freezing; I will unhook the RV from the external water source, turn on the water pump, and hunker down. The furnace and heating pad will keep the onboard water from freezing.

Inclement Weather

If the weather is calling for freezing rain, sleet, or snow for a period of time, you will need to make sure that the slide toppers are free from snow and ice before retracting them to travel. If you have steps coming into your RV, make sure they’re free of ice and use your handrail entering and exiting so that you limit the chances of slipping and falling.

With a little preparation, your RV will provide you with a warm and snug home on the road even when the weather turns cold. Bertie Bea is wonderfully appointed and prepared for most anything Mother Nature can throw at her.

Easy Peasy Vegetable Beef Soup

January 15, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

I’m a fan of the CrockPot Slow Cooker and single pan/pot meals, and this vegetable beef soup is no exception. It’s an easy-to-put-together recipe, and you can cook it all day when it’s super cold in the RV.

Five Ingredients make up this recipe.

1 pound of stir fry beef
1 pound of seasoned fajita beef strips
1/2 cup of flour with seasonings for the stir fry beef
- Chupacabra Brisket Rub
- McCormick’s Montreal Steak Seasoning
- Weber Seasonings Cowboy Seasoning
1/2 cup of flour without seasonings for the seasoned beef strips
1 Can Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes – Roasted Garlic
1 Package of PictSweet Vegetable Soup Mix
4 Boullion Cubes or 1 Can of Beef Broth

Instructions:

Add two cups of water to the bottom of the crock pot, four bullion cubes, and set the crock pot to high.
Add diced tomatoes to the crock pot as it is heating.
Flour the beef and brown in two tablespoons of olive oil.
Add browned beef and vegetable soup mix to the crock pot.
Top off the crock pot with water and stir until well-mixed.
Cook on high for two hours and then reduce to low for the last three hours.
Serve hot with Pillsbury Crescent rolls.

Stan’s Infamous Beef Stew Recipe

December 10, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

This beef stew is a stick-to-your-ribs meal that pairs well with a Coors – The Original Banquet Beer – and either Pillsbury Crescent Rolls or King’s Hawaiian Sweet Hawaiian Rolls. I enjoy it on cold or rainy days in the RV and it’s easy to put together even on work days when you can’t get away from the phone or the computer. It’s an easy prep and just let it cook in the Crockpot Slow Cooker all day.

Recipe

2 1/2 pounds of Beef Stew Meat
1 pound of Honey Gold Bite Sized Potatoes
8 ounces of Baby Carrots
8 ounces Sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms
1 Large Yellow Onion
1 Can Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 Can Beefy Mushroom Soup
1 Pouch Mushroom Onion Soup
3 Beef Boullion Cubes
3 or 4 Bay Leaves
1 to 2 teaspoons of Minced Garlic
1 Cup Flour
Seasonings
- Chupacabra Brisket Rub
- Nature’s Seasonings
- McCormick Cowboy Seasoning
- McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning
1/2 cup to 1 cup Canola Oil

Instructions

Pour 1/2 cup to 1 cup of canola oil into the pan and start it heating. I use setting 5 on my propane stove in the RV.
Put one cup of flour into a gallon Ziploc bag and add seasonings to the flour at your chosen quantities. I liberally use Chupacabra and Nature’s Seasonings then finish up with Cowboy and Montreal Steak to get the flavor I enjoy.
Put all stew meat into the Ziploc bag and shake till all pieces are coated evenly with flour.
Set the Crockpot to high, pour the can of Cream of Mushroom Soup into the Crockpot, and add one can of water.
Pour the Beefy Mushroom Soup into the Crockpot and add another can of water.
Add the pouch of Mushroom Onion Soup for flavor
Brown meat in the oil until 90% to 95% done and add to the Crockpot.
Add minced garlic, bay leaves, and bouillon cubes, and let the stew simmer for about an hour in the Crockpot.
Quarter the onion and add to the stew. It will separate as it cooks
Cut potatoes into halves and add to the stew
Add carrots to the stew
Add mushrooms to the stew
Let simmer on high for three to four hours and it will be ready to serve.

RV Tales: Embracing Nature’s Symphony in Yellowstone

November 23, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

As an avid nature enthusiast and a firm believer in the therapeutic power of the open road, embarking on an RV adventure through Yellowstone National Park has been a dream come true. The journey began with the selection of two remarkable campgrounds, Bridge Bay and Madison, both promising a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility to the wonders of America’s first national park.

Stan, Rowdy, and Mike – 2021 Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Bridge Bay Campground: Lakeside Bliss

Our RV found its temporary home at Bridge Bay Campground, perched along the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. The view from our campsite was nothing short of mesmerizing, with the sparkling waters of the lake stretching out before us along with the elk that routinely traverse the campground. The RV, with all its amenities, became our comfortable oasis amidst the wilderness.

Old Faithful – Yellowstone National Park

Guided by the call of exploration, we hopped into my trusty Chevrolet Equinox, ready to unravel the mysteries of Yellowstone. The first stop on our adventure was the legendary Old Faithful. The Equinox effortlessly navigated the winding roads, delivering us to the iconic geyser just in time for its majestic eruption. Watching Old Faithful shoot a column of steam and water into the sky was a humbling reminder of the untamed forces at play beneath the Earth’s surface.

Madison Campground: Forest Retreat

2021 with Bertha in the Madison Campground

Transitioning to Madison Campground felt like entering a secluded forest retreat. Our RV nestled amidst towering lodgepole pines, creating an intimate connection with nature. After a day filled with exploration, the RV became a haven of comfort, providing a perfect setting for sharing stories and savoring the moments.

Driving my Equinox from Madison, Mike, Rowdy, and I set our sights on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The car allowed us to effortlessly traverse the park, reaching the canyon’s edge to witness the majestic Yellowstone River carving its way through the rugged landscape. The Equinox became the ticket to the diverse landscapes and wildlife that make Yellowstone an ever-unfolding masterpiece.

Paint Pots and Beyond: RV Adventures Unveiled

The Paint Pots and Grand Prismatic Springs of Yellowstone National Park

Returning to the RV, we eagerly set out for the Paint Pots, a geothermal wonderland that painted the ground with vibrant hues. The RV served as our command center, allowing us to plan our exploration and immerse ourselves in the surreal landscapes that surrounded us.

To cap off our Yellowstone odyssey, we booked a guided fishing trip for cutthroats and lake trout in the pristine waters of Lake Yellowstone. Loading up the Equinox with fishing gear, we set out for a day of angling against the backdrop of the lake’s tranquil beauty—a perfect finale to our RV adventure.

In the end, camping in an RV at Bridge Bay and Madison Campgrounds was not just a vacation; it was a personal journey of discovery and connection with the wild. Yellowstone, with its geysers, canyons, paint pots, and serene lakes, became a canvas where memories were painted with each mile traveled and every site explored. As the RV rolled out of the park, the echoes of nature’s symphony lingered, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the beauty that our great outdoors hold.

Kick Back Ranch: My Home Away From Home

October 15, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Driving Tour of Kick Back Ranch & Event Center

As a regular visitor to Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in the charming town of Ramer, Alabama, I find myself drawn back time and again to this haven of Southern hospitality and outdoor bliss. Each visit to this rustic retreat unfolds new layers of tranquility and excitement, making it my home away from home.

The crown jewels of Kick Back Ranch are its five ponds, glistening in the sunlight, and harboring an abundance of bass, bream, crappie, and carp. For a fishing enthusiast like me, these ponds are a treasure trove of endless enjoyment. Casting a line into the clear waters becomes not just a recreational activity but a therapeutic experience, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Alabama countryside.

What truly elevates the Kick Back Ranch experience is the genuine warmth exuded by Jerry, Mindy, and the entire staff. Their Southern hospitality is not just a catchphrase; it’s a living, breathing aspect of the ranch. From sharing local insights to ensuring that every need is met, their dedication transforms a mere stay into a memorable journey.

The variety of activities at Kick Back Ranch ensures that boredom is a distant thought. The exhilarating water slide adds a playful touch, providing a refreshing break from the fishing adventures. The calendar is dotted with numerous events, ranging from community gatherings to live concerts, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration.

The RV park and accommodations seamlessly blend comfort with rustic charm, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Waking up to the sounds of nature and the promise of another day filled with possibilities makes each stay a cherished memory.

In essence, Kick Back Ranch & Event Center isn’t just a destination for me; it’s a sanctuary where Southern hospitality meets outdoor excitement. From the ponds teeming with fish to the warm smiles of the staff, every aspect contributes to an experience that keeps pulling me back for more. If you haven’t experienced the magic of Kick Back Ranch, it’s time to embark on a journey that promises unforgettable moments and a sense of belonging in the heart of Alabama.

Planning the Summer RV Tour 2023

October 4, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When I started planning the Summer RV Tour 2023 trip, there were several places I wanted to visit, and my goal was to not have to drive more than 600 miles on weekends between work weeks. I knew I had to be in Alcova, Wyoming for a fishing trip on Saturday, May 13, and I didn’t close on Birdie Bea until March 31. That meant I had to make sure the RV had all its maintenance completed and I had to leave Belmont no later than April 22. With my personal requirement to be anchored no later than 4:00pm every day, I would have to take into account two very hard weekends of driving in excess of 800 miles.

What planning application do I use for my RV Trips?

For my trips, I use a number of sources to determine sights and other places of interest that I want to enjoy during my trips. As far as planning my trip, I use RV Life’s RV Trip Wizard which is a subscription based application to plan all my trips. It has all the right tools and it sets safe routes based on the size of Birdie Bea at 13′ 6″ tall and about 55′ long with Rosie in tow. RV Trip Wizard gives me everything I need to plan my trips.

Setting up a trip with RV Trip Wizard – Summer RV Tour 2023

Once you have logged into RV Trip Wizard, you will see a screen that looks similar to this:

You will click Create Trip and set up your trip information by inputting the trip name and when you plan to leave.

Knowing that I had to be in Alcova, Wyoming by 5/13/2023, I found a campground that would work in that area first. So, that I knew how much distance I had to cover by the arrival date. In looking at the Alcova area, there were four campgrounds to choose from.

Once you pull up the region, you can start looking at the campground details by clicking on one of the four campgrounds in the RV Life Trip Wizard GUI.

By clicking on Park Details, you can then see if this location will suit your needs and you will also be able to read reviews.

Once you determine if that campground is the choice, you will need to click Add to your trip and set the dates.

After you add your first stop, then you can start filling in the other stops along your way based on your preferences. At the end, your trip will look much like this one with distances, driving times, and other pertinent information related to your trip.

As you can see, the first three weeks of the trip had very long legs, but once I made Alcova, the trip distances started shortening to spend more time exploring areas of interest.

In conclusion, RV Trip Wizard is my go to tool for planning my RV tours because it has all the information I need in one convenient location. Check it out here.

An Unforgettable Day on the North Platte with Rowdy and Brian

September 23, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

In the heart of Wyoming, where the North Platte River weaves its serpentine path through the rugged landscape, adventure called to us like a siren’s song. With my good friend Rowdy and our seasoned guide Brian, we embarked on a fly fishing expedition down the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River. Little did we know that this journey would be etched into our memories, not just for the pristine rainbow trout we would catch, but for the unforgettable mishap that would unfold in true Hemingway fashion.

The Promise of the River

Our journey began at dawn as the sun cast its golden hues across the vast expanse of the Wyoming wilderness. The North Platte River, shrouded in mist, was a picture of serenity. Rowdy and I eagerly listened to Brian’s instructions, the river’s soft whispers guiding us into its secrets. The promise of a day filled with rainbow trout and tales spun from the river’s depths hung heavy in the air.

The Tumultuous Pursuit

The Grey Reef section of the North Platte was known for its feisty rainbow trout, and our pursuit of these elusive fish was an adventure in itself. As we floated downstream in our trusty drift boat, Brian’s eyes never left the water. Rowdy and I cast our lines with precision, letting the flies dance beneath the surface. The river became a silent observer of our dance, where man and fish engaged in a timeless battle.

In the true spirit of Hemingway, our pursuit was intense and unyielding. We felt the tug on our lines and the thrill of the fight as the rainbows tested our mettle. The river’s currents were our battleground, and every catch was a triumph over nature’s forces.

Release of another North Platte Rainbow by Brian

The Tangle of Fate

But in the midst of this epic struggle, fate had its own plans. As I cast my line with a fervor only rivaled by Ahab pursuing Moby Dick, disaster struck. The trolling motor, a vital instrument in our quest, caught the line, and the propeller was ensnared in a web of my own making. Brian, the stoic guide, tried to assist, but his efforts only led to further entanglement.

We found ourselves in a comical tableau, three men grappling with a trolling motor, a propeller, and a mess of tippet and flies wrapped unmercifully. In true Hemingway fashion, this mishap became a metaphor for the chaos of life and the unpredictability of the wilderness.

Laughter Amidst the Chaos

Instead of frustration, we found ourselves overcome with laughter. Our guide, Brian, a man of few words, couldn’t help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Rowdy, with his trademark irreverence, made light of my predicament. In the midst of our tangled mess, we discovered the camaraderie that comes from shared misadventures.

At that moment, the North Platte River, the fish, and the tangled mess of equipment faded into the background. We were three friends, bound by the chaos of the moment and the shared laughter that echoed through the canyon walls. It was a reminder that the best stories are often born from the most unexpected circumstances.

The Redemption of the River

After what felt like an eternity, we finally freed the trolling motor, disentangled ourselves, and got back to the business of fishing. The river, seemingly amused by our antics, rewarded our persistence with a flurry of rainbow trout. Each catch or miss was a testament to our tenacity and the resilience of the human spirit.

As the sun began its descent over the Wyoming landscape, we returned to the landing, tired but triumphant. The North Platte River had tested us, tangled us both literally and figuratively in its mysteries, and ultimately rewarded us with its treasures.

Painting by Julie Thurston from one of the beautiful rainbows of the North Platte River in Wyoming

Conclusion

In the spirit of Ernest Hemingway, our day on the North Platte River was a reminder that true adventure lies not just in the pursuit of fish but in the unpredictable twists of fate that shape our journey. It was a day of laughter, camaraderie, and, yes, several epic tangles that tested our mettle.

As we drove away from the Grey Reef section of the North Platte River, the sun setting behind us, I couldn’t help but smile. Our adventure had all the elements of a Hemingway story – the pursuit, the mishap, and the enduring friendship forged on the water. It was a day that would be etched in our memories, a tale to be told any time we gathered for years to come.

The Call of the Road

March 6, 2022 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The road and I have been like brothers
From all the miles and time we’ve spent together
Yeah, we’ve seen it all
We both seen changes in our time
Busted dreams and detour signs
We keep rolling on
“Brother Highway” by Ned Ledoux

Since the day I was born, I have been traveling the highways and backroads of the United States with my parents or as a solo traveler. I don’t know why the road has such a hold on me, but I know that it’s my happy place.

The roads that appeal the most to me are the long, straight two-lane roads that have hills or mountains in the distance, or roads that end in Small Town America where neighbors still help neighbors. My travels take me to small towns and big cities which have broadened my horizons to see the differences in the American experience which include food offerings, mores, and the cultural differences.

Enjoy these images from the 2022 RV Adventure:

Kick Back Ranch & Event Center
Poche’s RV & Fish Camp
Kemah, TX

I know that I have been blessed to be able to see the many facets of the United States of America during my RV road trip of the past almost two years. The views are breathtaking and the people I’ve met give me confidence that, as a nation, we are not as divided as the media might lead you to believe.