Canada Border, WA, OR with the Stocks

The friendliest place on the web for anyone with an RV or an interest in RVing!
If you have answers, please help by responding to the unanswered posts.

Dean & Linda Stock

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 30, 2006
Posts
1,195
Location
Cypress, California
I wasn't going to post after we left Canada, but we have some good tips for those who follow us so they can save $ and possibly get through the border better.  Also, we have a request for help.

August 25 Day 1 Arlington, WA (1 hour outside Seattle)

What a frustrating and maddening day!  We had trouble getting out of our space because the RV park is so tight and there was a tree on one side and a pole on the other.  One of our neighbors kindly volunteered to move his car when he saw Dean scratching his head trying to figure out how we could get out, and we really appreciated it.  Then, as we stopped to dump trash, a nice older man who had owned his coach for 3 years and only taken it on 3 short trips, asked if he could watch Dean hook up.  Dean said it was fine with him.  Then the two of them--teacher and student--went through how to use the Blue Ox.  Dean said the man obviously needed to know much more than he did, and so many people have been kind to him that it was time to pay it forward.  I was sure Dean would be rewarded for his kindness by a good border crossing.  NOT!

The RV park managers/owners are so wonderful.  At check-in, they had advised us not to go the Pacific border crossing right by the park because it was very hard to maneuver through it with a large rig.  We had also noted "long lines" and waits of as much as an hour there.  Instead, they recommended the Peace Arch crossing.  So we set off.

Oh, my goodness!  We couldn't believe how long the line was when we got to Peace Arch.  It went further than the eye could see. Advice to others--Use another crossing!  Dean is waiting until we get to Oregon to address an overheating problem, and so of course, in the stop-and-go (mostly stop), within a few minutes we had overheated.  Dean was able to pull out across the speedy Nexus lane for those with passes and over to the side of the road to let the  RV cool off.  Mistake!  We should have stayed in line and just killed the engine, because the line was almost at a standstill.  So the line grew and grew.  After we cooled off, the line was even longer.  Dean had planned on cooling the engine (he tried adding anti-freeze, but it was full)  and then just pulling in behind the other vehicles.  But, with the new longer line, we couldn't get back in because we couldn't block the Nexus lane until we found a kind soul who would let us in.

Finally there was a big gap and Dean started the engine and went for it.  The line was so slow that people were getting out of their cars and buying coffee at the duty-free store.  After the first couple of hours, people had to use the bathroom.  There was a park right next to the line, so they dashed off to the washrooms.  Then, all of a sudden, the line started to move by yards instead of inches.  People were running full out, trying to catch up with their cars (probably with their passports inside) before they got to the border. I am so glad we have our washroom with us!  It took us about 3 hours to get to the point where the 2 lanes split into 8 border kiosks.  At least 2 people circumvented the whole process by using the Nexus lane (which probably took less than 5 minutes instead of the 3 hours we spent).  They cut in line a few cars in front of us.  Who knows how many other cars did the same thing before we got to the point where we could see it?  I was livid!  I am writing a letter about the situation with proposed solutions to the "boss of the border crossing" and to my U. S. senators.  We are supposed to be a nation of laws and justice for all.  It would be very easy to use K-rails to keep them in the Nexus lane and not let them cross over.  Then, they should take their keys, have them serve a one-hour penalty (like hockey) in a penalty area, and then put these errant vehicles in the turnaround and send them back to the end of the line in Canada.  The guy who cut two cars in front of us had a bumper sticker, "Keep your hands off my guns!"  I thought, "You are so lucky I don't have a gun right now!"

Once we got to the kiosk, the agent was very nice.  After hearing my rant about "cutters," he actually gave me some other issues that he believed should be addressed in my letter.  The first thing you notice when you come across the border is a large patch of dead long grass and a sculpture made of wire with a rectangular opening it.  It is ugly!  And, the symbolism of barbed wire reminds me of our border with Mexico.  This area is our "Welcome to the USA."

We weren't able to get a spot in the RV park we had selected, Lake Pleasant RV Park, which only has 28 spots.  My #2 pick, a casino, was having a very famous rock group performing and said their RV parking was full.  My #3 choice was Angel of the Winds Casino.  It is forever my #1 choice from now on.  It is 4 minutes from I-5, off Exit 210. Eureka--I have found it! Their gas is 30 cents a gallon cheaper than any we've seen since we crossed the border, and if you get a players' card, you get an additional 7 cents a gallon off.  Their diesel price is $3.88, so we'll only pay $3.81.  In Canada, we paid $1.42Canadian/liter (equivalent to $5.68 Canadian/gallon).  Current exchange is US dollar=95 cents Canadian.  The casino gives you the best exchange rate I was able to find after contacting my home FCU, my home bank, and a few banks in Seattle.  They also give you  a coupon book with $5 cash and $5 off their inexpensive but good restaurant.  Their coffee shop has a menu full of amazing prices--99 cents for strawberry shortcake, $1.49 for salmon and chips.  There are other deals in the coupon book as well.

Staying at Angels of the Wind Casino, 30 amps, water and dump available, very secure, $16


August 26 Day 2 Arlington, WA (1 hour outside Seattle)

Our cat, Sherlock, had a tough night.  He was moaning in pain, rolling on the floor when we awakened, and he had nausea.  So, first thing, we called the nearest vet, Dr. Kat(herine) Engelsma, in Marysville, about 25 minutes away.  Vets now do the same tests a medical doctor would do on a person.  Sherlock had extensive blood work, etc.  We waited while all the tests were done.  The vet diagnosed him with another bout of pancreatitis, and said he needed to spend the night in the hospital so he could receive fluids, antibiotics, and pain killers.

By this time, it was early afternoon.  We hadn't eaten because we had just dressed and left this morning, so we stopped at a Red Robin.  I had a great Cobb salad.  We find their food to be consistently good.

We went to the Museum of Flight in Seattle.  Dean only had about 3 hours there before they closed, but he enjoyed every minute. He said the displays are the same as last time, but he still learned new information.  Meanwhile, I enjoyed my book in the parking lot.

It was only 5:00, so we went to the movies, missed the film we wanted to see, "The Butler", but found "Blue Jasmine" was timed just right.  Neither of us enjoyed it.

Staying at Angels of the Wind Casino, 30 amps, water and dump available, very clean and secure $16


August 27 Day 3 Arlington, WA (1 hour outside Seattle)

We got a call from the vet that Sherlock was much improved and we could pick him up after 2:30, so that screwed up our day.  We will miss the $800 (including $100 for special food) it cost to get him healthy.  We're very glad to get him back, however.  He isn't his normal self, but he is not in pain and not nauseated. 

Pets are just like children, and we really appreciated the detailed explanations the vet gave us, as well as her thoroughness and caring manner.  We added two days to our stay here so that if he has any further problems, we'd be near this vet who we think so highly of.  Besides, we haven't seen our favorite places in Seattle yet on this trip.

I spent the day trying to plan where we could stay in Tacoma/Puyallup area for a few nights and where we might park the RV on the Olympic Peninsula.  My best shot was the Puyallup Fairgrounds.  Although it is just a blacktop parking lot with hookups, that is all we need. However, all I get is a busy signal.  Their fair starts September 4, and of course Labor Day weekend is just a few days away.  That doesn't matter so much, because there is a total lack of decent RV parks who can accommodate coaches as large as ours (38').  I made about 20 phone calls and even tried The Great American Casino in Lakewood, but they were very explicit that we couldn't spend the night and must be inside the casino gambling.  Even then, if they had people come in cars, they would ask us to leave because we take up too many spaces.  Eventually, I gave up on Tacoma and we'll just drive on through it on the way to Olympia, where I did make reservations.

If anyone knows of a good park with 30 amps that can reasonable take a 38' motorhome in the Tacoma/Puyallup/Olympia Peninsula area, please let me know.  There was lots that I would like to do there, and I would include a week or so there on another trip or maybe ask for a date change in Olympia and put it back into this trip.

Staying at Angels of the Wind Casino, 30 amps, water and dump available, very secure, $16
 
August 28 Day 4 Arlington, WA (1 hour outside Seattle)

Seattle has not had rain for 30 days until we came.  We broke the spell, and it has rained every day.  Last night it poured.  When it stopped this morning and the prediction was for 6 dry hours, we headed to the attractions that were outside. 

On our way to the Washington Park Arboretum, we had to weave through neighborhoods near the park.  We saw gorgeous landscaping in front of middle-class houses.  These people take their gardening seriously and are aided by Mother Naure's rain.  The arboretum is a huge area with a mixed forest and paths.  The trees are magnificent.  If you enjoy walking in serenity while listening to birds, you will enjoy it.  Admission is free.  You can walk on asphalt paths or nicely mulched trails.  I never realized how hilly Seattle is.  It is second only to San Francisco, and there are many elevation changes and stairs if you choose the trails.

Just about half-a-mile away is the Japanese Garden, which was really pretty and peaceful.  (Picture 1)  Admission is $4. (Pictures 1, 2, and 3)

We made a splurge for lunch and went to Ivar's Salmon House.  This is one of 3 nice restaurants that Ivar's has, in addition to their cafes which specialize in chowder.  We had eaten here before, and I love the feel of the First Peoples motif.  It's as if you enter a Kwakiutl longhouse and get a great view of boaters, paddleboarders, and kayakers besides. (Pictures 4, 5, 6, and 7)  I had never tasted king (Chinook) salmon, and it was on my To Do List in Alaska.  Unfortunately, we got there 2 days too late.  But it's in season here, and it was even more delicious than my usual Coho (silver).  I enjoy their art.  When we were here before, they had a beautiful picture of a fish made with nails.  I asked about it, and the waitress said that we'd pass it on the way out.  We looked for it and asked, but they recently remodeled and may have stored it away. They have an interesting bas relief fish, as well as much totem-like art.

Staying at Angels of the Wind Casino, 30 amps, water and dump available, very secure, $16, great WiFi when you can get on it, which is most, but not all, of the time
 

Attachments

  • IMG_3721.jpg
    IMG_3721.jpg
    62.8 KB · Views: 40
  • IMG_3724.jpg
    IMG_3724.jpg
    98.6 KB · Views: 39
  • IMG_3726.jpg
    IMG_3726.jpg
    69.7 KB · Views: 26
  • IMG_3741.jpg
    IMG_3741.jpg
    84 KB · Views: 33
  • IMG_3743.jpg
    IMG_3743.jpg
    56.9 KB · Views: 31
  • IMG_3732.jpg
    IMG_3732.jpg
    51.4 KB · Views: 36
  • IMG_3739.jpg
    IMG_3739.jpg
    49.9 KB · Views: 41
Linda, you would have to back track a few miles, but there is a very nice big rig park in Bothell, WA.  50 amp FHU.  It's called Lake Pleasant RV Park.  Right in the middle of a city; but the campground is tucked away and the sites are all around a small lake.  Very nice.

Did you get the overheating figured out?  Ask Dean if he has hosed off the engine and radiator yet.  Ours was covered in dirt when we came back from Alaska and that can cause overheating.

Marsha~
 
Marsha/CA said:
Linda, you would have to back track a few miles, but there is a very nice big rig park in Bothell, WA.  50 amp FHU.  It's called Lake Pleasant RV Park.  Right in the middle of a city; but the campground is tucked away and the sites are all around a small lake.  Very nice.

Did you get the overheating figured out?  Ask Dean if he has hosed off the engine and radiator yet.  Ours was covered in dirt when we came back from Alaska and that can cause overheating.

Marsha~

I tried Lake Pleasant, and they were booked forever--many, many days.  I haven't been posting because I've been in a frump without WiFi, good campsite, or nearby attractions, and spending tons of money not having any fun to show for it.  Long story (almost 2 weeks long) made into 1 paragraph.  Sherlock (aged 4, too young to be sick) spent 1 night in the hospital, and almost a week of daily outpatient visits, shots, etc--cost $1000.  We couldn't leave because we would have to repeat costly tests at another vet and we really loved Mount Vernon VCA docs.  We finally got the OK to go, Sherlock still only 50% of his usual self.  We traveled 8 miles in 6 hours.  It turned out to be a broken fan clutch, so no fan to cool the engine.  And, we're having beautiful warm weather.  We stayed at Cabela's overnight and arranged a tow.  The tow driver noted he was hooking us up that he was seeing steel belt on our inside tire (we had very new tires when we left for Alaska), apparently caused by wearing incorrectly.  We boondocked 3 nights at Freightliner awaiting the part.  They only took one day to fix it, but it cost us $2000.  Then over to the tire place, where we dropped over $800 on one tire.  Ugh!  Bad luck runs in 3's?  Mysteriously, at times the Jeep just shuts itself off--very disconcerting when traveling down the freeway.  But, we couldn't get it fixed over Labor Day, so that's at the top of our To Do List.  Just as mysteriously, it now keeps running.  However, we will still get an engine tune-up ASAP.  We're ready for good luck!  It's overdue.

Anyway, we did do some sightseeing, and now we are in a WONDERFUL FHU campground.  Sherlock is 100% back.  I am happy, so I will be posting again
 
September 8 Day 15 Olympia, WA

We were excited to return to one of our favorite serene places, Weyerhaueser's Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection, second only to the display in Washington, D. C.  The whole area is a heavily wooded forest, and as you stroll toward the entrance, you are transported to the time when it is said that a monkey could have swung from tree to tree across the whole United States. 

As we entered, we were impressed with a fabulous display of Dan Reeder paper mache (papier mache') art called "Fantasy and Frolic."  Papier mache' means "mashed paper", and Dan says there's nothing French or mashed about his art, so he anglicized the term.  All he uses are paper, glue, and cloth--no chicken wire as other artists do.  There were only about 20 pieces, but they were exquisite, and everyone left with a smile on their faces.  I really liked the dragons (pictures 1 & 2), but the "Happy Hippo" made me laugh, too.  Those that were for sale were in the $2000 range, so I took a good long long and didn't buy.

The bonsai artistry is also amazing.  Unfortunately, we went at mid-day and everything had multiple shadows, so Deans 81 pictures were a disappointment--I think the worst day we've had photographically in 7 years of RVing.  So, I'll have to use my words.  One amazing dish less than 2' long held 59 (not a typo) separate trees from the same parent tree--some from seeds, some from cuttings that were initiated in 1964.  One dish held a tree that was 700 years old!  I enjoy the scene bonsais over the singles (Picture 3, 4, 5), but seeing a coast redwood as a bonsai drew a gasp from me!  Wow!  When you think of the huge sequoia redwoods and then see this perfectly miniaturized bonsai, it is extraordinary. (Picture 6)

Staying at Olympia Campground--absolutely lovely- large trees, FHU--30 amps, pull-thru, great WiFi.  It's only 50% occupied, so we're space every other site.  Pride of ownership park.  The owner/manager was out this morning blowing the small leaf debris off the blacktop roads.  Pristine! $34
 

Attachments

  • IMG_3781.jpg
    IMG_3781.jpg
    55 KB · Views: 19
  • IMG_3787.jpg
    IMG_3787.jpg
    71.2 KB · Views: 18
  • IMG_3838.jpg
    IMG_3838.jpg
    50.9 KB · Views: 17
  • IMG_3840.jpg
    IMG_3840.jpg
    57.2 KB · Views: 19
  • IMG_3845.jpg
    IMG_3845.jpg
    58 KB · Views: 16
  • IMG_3847.jpg
    IMG_3847.jpg
    63 KB · Views: 19
That is why we don't use Peace Arch crossing, especially on a long weekend. The Aldergrove crossing is not generally as congested, highway 15 goes straight south to meet I-5 at Bellis Fair mall in Bellingham. FYI, there is no duty free coming north at Peace Arch so take exit 275 to the truck crossing if you wish to shop. Booze is a LOT cheaper. ;D
 
Dean & Linda Stock said:
I tried Lake Pleasant, and they were booked forever--many, many days.  I haven't been posting because I've been in a frump without WiFi, good campsite, or nearby attractions, and spending tons of money not having any fun to show for it.  Long story (almost 2 weeks long) made into 1 paragraph.  Sherlock (aged 4, too young to be sick) spent 1 night in the hospital, and almost a week of daily outpatient visits, shots, etc--cost $1000.  We couldn't leave because we would have to repeat costly tests at another vet and we really loved Mount Vernon VCA docs.  We finally got the OK to go, Sherlock still only 50% of his usual self.  We traveled 8 miles in 6 hours.  It turned out to be a broken fan clutch, so no fan to cool the engine.  And, we're having beautiful warm weather.  We stayed at Cabela's overnight and arranged a tow.  The tow driver noted he was hooking us up that he was seeing steel belt on our inside tire (we had very new tires when we left for Alaska), apparently caused by wearing incorrectly.  We boondocked 3 nights at Freightliner awaiting the part.  They only took one day to fix it, but it cost us $2000.  Then over to the tire place, where we dropped over $800 on one tire.  Ugh!  Bad luck runs in 3's?  Mysteriously, at times the Jeep just shuts itself off--very disconcerting when traveling down the freeway.  But, we couldn't get it fixed over Labor Day, so that's at the top of our To Do List.  Just as mysteriously, it now keeps running.  However, we will still get an engine tune-up ASAP.  We're ready for good luck!  It's overdue.

Anyway, we did do some sightseeing, and now we are in a WONDERFUL FHU campground.  Sherlock is 100% back.  I am happy, so I will be posting again

Not the way you want to end your fantastic holiday.  I am glad things are getting better now.  Have a safe trip home

Diane
 
September 7 Day 14 Olympia, WA

We have been visiting capitol buildings as we travel through states, and Washington's is magnificent, but confusing.  It is part of a 5-building "campus," called The Capitol Group.  We parked in front of a building, only to discover it labeled "INSURANCE."  Another was labeled, "THE TEMPLE OF JUSTICE."  The Legislative Building (Capitol) is on a knoll overlooking Capitol Lake at the southern tip of Puget Sound. 


We didn't go through any security at all, which is unusual these days, but Washingtonians want it to be "The People's Capitol", so they just have lots and lots of cameras. 

Construction of the Capitol took 6 years and was completed in 1928.  The federal government gave Washington 132,000 acres of timber, so the capitol construction didn't actually cost state taxpayers anything. The Capitol is made of concrete, lots and lots of marble, and sandstone so that it wouldn't burn down like other states' capitols that utilized wood.  Its claim to fame is the 287' tall brick and sandstone dome (with cupola), which is the tallest masonry dome in North America. The dome and chandelier, were built in New York in pieces and shipped by rail to Washington, where it was then assembled. The ceiling of the interior dome is a neck-craning 175 feet above the rotunda floor.  The  101-foot chain attached to the dome holds an ornate 5-ton bronze chandelier, the largest chandelier ever created by Tiffany. (Picture 1) It has over 200 light bulbs. They have to build scaffolding to clean it and change light bulbs, which last time cost $5600, so they only do it every 10 years or when 2/3 of the light bulbs are burned out.  During the 2001 earthquake, the chandelier bounced for several DAYS afterwards.  The dome had to travel by train in parts an be assembled when it got here.  The four firepots ln the corners of the rotunda symbolize the ancient Roman signal lights used to call the first Senate into session over 2000 years ago.  Embedded in the floor is the Seal of the State. (Picture 2) Washington's likeness in the seal looks like he hasn't slept in weeks and is really dour (my opinion).  Without furnishings, the Capitol weighs 99 tons.

They claim to have 42 granite steps because Washington was the 42nd state in 1889, but the people who climbed them say there are 45.  There never was a U. S. flag with 42 stars because they waited for the next state, Idaho, I think, and made a flag with 43 stars.  These steps lead to the second floor, where the main entrance is located. 

The Campus has 50 landscaped park-like acres with beautiful trees.  They even have a large greenhouse on site.  The brochure boasts spectacular bulb and annual planting, but we looked and didn't see any.  The designers were the planners of New York's Central Park.

When we visited the U. S. Capitol, there was a large hall with 2 statues from each state.  Replicas of Washington's were just inside the building when we entered.  The first is of Marcus Whitman, a physician, who brought a lot of settlers here.  Unfortunately, there was an outbreak of smallpox.  Dr. Whitman was unable to save many of the Native Americans.  If the medicine man isn't effective, not only does the patient die, but the doctor is killed, also.  Dr. Whitman was killed.  The second represents Mother Joseph, a Catholic nun, who oversaw the construction of many hospitals and promoted education and other social services.  She lived to be 79 years old.

Both the Senate and house meet every January for 105 days during odd-numbered years and 60 days during even numbered. The governor can call for extra sessions, and probably will do so this year.  Proceedings are televised.  The lieutenant governor is elected every 4 years and presides over the Senate.  He may be from a different party than the governor.

The Senate is a lot more traditional and formal than the House.  It is much quieter in the Senate (of course, that could be due in part to only having half as many people). The Senate has microphones.  The House does not; I guess they have to shout.  The House has copper throughout; the Senate has brass. Senators dress in business suits.  Representatives wear "office casual."  Senators stand up and vote in roll-call fashion, whereas the House utilizes electronic voting machines.  Washington was the first state with electronic voting because they had so much hydro-electric power.  It was developed by Thomas Edison himself.

All government officials from the governor on down, receive $43,000/year + their per diem.  The two houses are considered equal, but they used dogwood flowers in the Senate carpet to symbolize tall dogwood trees, and therefore their superiority.  The House carpet has large Pacific Rhododendrons, the state flower, at the entry.  Throughout the rest of the room's carpet is forest trillium, a low-growing flower, representing that they are the lower house.

The 49 senators get single desks, (Picture 3) while in the House, representatives have double desks. (Picture 4) The representatives have state-supplied phones and computers. The Senate chambers are smaller than the House chambers.    The original mahogany desks are still used, though they have been modified to include hook-ups for electronics and phone, which are currently banned.

Senators serve staggered 4-year terms, while representatives serve 2-year terms. There are no term limits, but they have had only one 3-term governor.  There are no age limits, except on judges, who must retire at age 76.  32% of the legislators are women.  The 98 state representatives (61 D, 37 R) elect a speaker of the House.  Sometimes they have 2 speakers who alternate because there are 49 reps from each party.  In both houses, there is no filibustering--you can only speak for 3 MINUTES!!!  In both houses, generally, Democrats choose to sit on one side and Republicans on the other. Right now, the Democrats control everything but the Senate, where 2 renegade Democrats have joined with the Republicans in their caucus.  One of them is now the leader of the new Republican majority.  Committee leadership has been split 50/50. Seating is kind of a free-for-all.  They all go in and choose a seat, but if a legislator senior to you asks for the seat you are in, you have to give it up. They have never had a third party legislator. No one, not even the governor, can come on the floor of the legislature without an invitation.  All proceedings in both houses are televised so people can watch at home.

A bill can originate in either house.  They used to read each bill aloud.  Now, since all the legislators can read, they just announce the title of the bill.

All the original lighting in the building still exists and was created by Louis Comfort Tiffany himself.  However, in 1960, a snowstorm collapsed the skylights and snow covered the desktops for awhile before it was discovered.  They replaced desktops with exactly the same materials and eliminated the skylights.  It was a little dark in both chambers when we visited, but when they are in session, they turn on hidden lights where the skylights once were.  The House has a beautiful chandelier.(Picture 5)


The  Reception Room is very elegant and is used for formal state ceremonies, receptions, and meetings.  The centerpiece is a fireplace which has never been used because of concerns about setting the place on fire.  Above the fireplace is a picture of George Washington.  The guide said that most pictures of him do not show his true self.  He was a large man, 6'4" tall and over 200 pounds.  He had red smallpox scarring all over his body, and these scars are never shown.  He didn't have a "good jaw," so his jaw is always enhanced. (Pictures 6 & 7)  A Tiffany chandelier,(Picture 8) heavy velvet draperies with real gold thread in them, and a teakwood floor give you a feeling that you're in a special place. Carpet covers the floor, but occasionally it is removed for events such as the Governor's Inaugural Ball.  Anyone can come and eat and dance the night away for a $100 ticket.

Staying at Olympia Campground.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_3762.jpg
    IMG_3762.jpg
    57.9 KB · Views: 14
  • IMG_3772.jpg
    IMG_3772.jpg
    67.9 KB · Views: 15
  • IMG_3764.jpg
    IMG_3764.jpg
    53.8 KB · Views: 15
  • IMG_3757.jpg
    IMG_3757.jpg
    55.8 KB · Views: 11
  • IMG_3761.jpg
    IMG_3761.jpg
    50.9 KB · Views: 12
  • IMG_3753.jpg
    IMG_3753.jpg
    64.2 KB · Views: 10
  • IMG_3754.jpg
    IMG_3754.jpg
    48.5 KB · Views: 12
  • IMG_3773.jpg
    IMG_3773.jpg
    55.9 KB · Views: 11
September 13 Day 20 Portland, OR

Dean and I think the Washington Park Japanese Garden in Portland is the best Japanese garden we've visited anywhere in the U. S., and if there's a Japanese garden and we're within 100 miles, we go visit it. (Pictures 1,2,3) We've visited this lovely serene garden many times, even before we were RVers, and it's our only MUST DO in Portland.  There is lots of symbolism, like the stones at the base of the pagoda that are in the shape of the island of Hokkaido.  The red stone represents Sapporo, which is Portland's sister city.  There are pretty koi, ponds with lily pads and walkways, a tea garden with a ceremonial Tea House, a raked sand and stone garden, and bridges,  I've used ideas we got here in selecting plants for and landscaping our front yard, which now needs a refresher since we've put our energies into RVing and let a gardener tend it. 

Just down the road is the enormous Rose Garden.  While in the City of the Roses, I had to stop by, even though I knew we were at the end of the rose season.  They have done a remarkably good job of keeping the roses blooming, though I've seen it in June, when it is even more impressive.

Staying at Fairview-Portland RV Park.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_3904.jpg
    IMG_3904.jpg
    78.7 KB · Views: 18
  • IMG_3905.jpg
    IMG_3905.jpg
    92.2 KB · Views: 15
  • IMG_3906.jpg
    IMG_3906.jpg
    100.8 KB · Views: 17
September 15 Day 22 Portland, OR

Yesterday, we were scheduled to go to the Oregon Zoo, but with the temperature predicted to be 90?, we eschewed the idea.  We knew that the animals would be lethargic.  We thought we'd miss the zoo totally because today there was a 70% chance of rain with thunder and lightning. 

In late morning today, it was cool and thickly overcast. We heard thunder in the distance.  We decided to go for it and hope the forecasters were wrong.  As we entered the zoo, they told us they had been without power from a lightning strike, but they were hopeful that the weather would hold.  Parking was $4, and 2 senior admissions were $20.

This zoo has the most beautiful forested setting.  This is probably the best-designed zoo we've visited.  The designers put comfortable sleeping areas for the animals right next to the windows, so you could see all the animals, whether they are active or not.  In our opinion, the enclosures were comfortably large for all the animals except the cats.  The animals appeared very healthy.  There is a heavy emphasis on supporting programs to preserve endangered animals with zoo funding.  Because it is situated on a hill, there are many slopes, but they are gradual and have flat spots in between.  The food at the grill was excellent, something we don't expect at a zoo.  The staff to guest ratio was outstanding--lots of knowledgeable workers everywhere.  It is laid out like a 4-armed octopus--it would be hard to get lost.  This is a right-sized zoo; it took us 5 hours to see everything. 

The animals were out and active.  The bears were out for a walk about. (Picture 1)  The wood duck wanted to share his opinions. (Picture 2)  There was a heavy emphasis on ecology education,  and they walked the walk. (Picture 3)  The lorikeets were gorgeous and friendly.  (Picture 4)  Caracals with their big ears aren't often seen in zoos, and this one came up close. (Picture 5)  I don't think we've seen the Speke's gazelle before (Picture 6).  They are herbivores who are hunted for food by everyone, it seems--people, cheetahs, lions, wild dogs, leopards, hyenas, and pythons.

Staying at Portland-Fairview RV Park.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_3907.jpg
    IMG_3907.jpg
    55.5 KB · Views: 13
  • IMG_3912.jpg
    IMG_3912.jpg
    74 KB · Views: 12
  • IMG_3918.jpg
    IMG_3918.jpg
    55 KB · Views: 15
  • IMG_3921.jpg
    IMG_3921.jpg
    42.1 KB · Views: 11
  • IMG_3939.jpg
    IMG_3939.jpg
    82.8 KB · Views: 18
  • IMG_3948.jpg
    IMG_3948.jpg
    70.1 KB · Views: 15
You didn't visit the Forestry Center while you were at the zoo ? Right there on the same hilltop. We really liked it.
 
September 17 Day 24 Canyonville, OR (I-5,100 mi. N of CA border)

We only drove about 100 miles of easy driving.  This rave will conclude our log.  From here, we will boogie home, with a 3-day stop at Lake Tahoe, where we honeymooned 45 years ago.

About 5 years ago, RVForumers Chris & Mimi Pennings told us about Seven Feathers Casino & RV Resort.  I knew Chris had high standards, and he spoke glowingly about this place, so I put it in my Oregon file with his name so I'd pay special attention to it.  Thanks for a great recommendation.

They say it listed on the Top 10 RV Resorts in the U. S., and I believe it!  Everything is beautifully landscaped and pristine.  They inspect each site when you leave before they park the next in-coming coach.  A friendly "valet" guides each rig to its site.  Each site has a large pull-thru concrete pad with a concrete patio area with table.  There is a long, wide grass strip between each site with a satellite-friendly tree and bushes. 

There's plenty to do.  They have an indoor heated pool and hot tub, a fitness center, a media center, horseshoe pits, and a play area.  There are winery tours to the Umpqua Valley Wine Country and golf.  You can stroll along Jordan Creek or bicycle in common areas.

It's a perfect spot for a rally.  There is a large gathering room with a full kitchen and large screen TV and a barbecue pavilion. 

There's lots of service--mail and message service and concierge service.  Wifi works beautifully--and we knew it would just from looking at how everything else is topnotch. Their cable has 24 channels, including all the major networks.  They even have courtesy phones and a telephone connection at each site.

A pull-thru is $34 (minus 10% if you get a player's card from the casino).  A back-in is $2 less.

Thanks to everyone for your replies, recommendations, and information!
 
Thanks to you, Linda, for once again taking us along on your adventure.  You're such a good writer!

Margi
 
Yes, indeed, we do enjoy traveling along with you and Dean.  Thanks to both of you for taking the time both to write and to get the photos.  I know it's not always easy!  But, just so you know, even the "downers" were interesting and we were sympathetic while following along.

Re Seven Feathers.  Yes, it's a wonderful little gem of a campground.  They also have a very nice hotel across the road.  We stayed there once in between motorhomes when we had to make a trip up there.  I was very impressed with the hotel.  Very clean and nicely furnished.  They've got a goldmine in that whole property.  The food is good too.  In fact, I had one of the best pieces of ham there that I've had in years.  I tried to buy some through their supplier, but they only sell to places like Seven Feathers.

Continue enjoying your trip home.  And Happy Anniversary to you both!

ArdraF
 
Seven Feathers also has a wonderful seafood buffet on Thursdays and every fourth Friday.

Margi
 
Tom and Margi said:
Seven Feathers also has a wonderful seafood buffet on Thursdays and every fourth Friday.

Margi

We won't get to try it this time, but maybe next time.  Things just get better and better here.  We just discovered that their diesel gas is 30 cents a gallon less than we paid at Flying J about 5 miles back, $3.75 vs $4.05.  Somewhere there is a list of the Top 10 RV Campgrounds.  After visiting here, I want to try them all!  And the price here was just right--not exorbitant as one might expect.
 
ArdraF said:
Yes, indeed, we do enjoy traveling along with you and Dean.  Thanks to both of you for taking the time both to write and to get the photos.  I know it's not always easy!  But, just so you know, even the "downers" were interesting and we were sympathetic while following along.

  In fact, I had one of the best pieces of ham there that I've had in years.  I tried to buy some through their supplier, but they only sell to places like Seven Feathers.

ArdraF

Thanks so much.  Because I know you are a history buff,  I thought of you when I was learning about Washington and how his skin was covered with red scars and how he was so tall.  I wanted to send  you the info in an e-mail but at that point I think we had terrible problems trying to get WiFi access. 

Dean worked all day today on our satellite set-up.  We haven't had service for quite a while, and he has the guy who does the parts saying it is the provider and the provider saying it's an equipment failure.  When he called the provider that took over from Motostat, he wouldn't give him configuration figures until Dean became very insistent.  Dean is beyond frustrated.  Dean didn't call names or use profanity, but the tech took offense and is upset with Dean.  I'm not sure he'll work with Dean again.  I don't know what else he can do, but Dean is stubborn and won't give up easily.

Ham wasn't offered on the buffet or in the restaurant.  We never eat breakfast out, but maybe we will tomorrow morning.
 
Linda, I just finished the book 1776 by David McCoullagh (spelling) which documents George Washington's early involvement in the American Revolution.  It was very good.  Since I'm a DAR, I was especially interested in it.

We haven't had service for quite a while, and he has the guy who does the parts saying it is the provider and the provider saying it's an equipment failure.  When he called the provider that took over from Motostat, he wouldn't give him configuration figures

We dumped our motosat a couple of years ago and now use air cards via a cradlepoint router which is much faster; and we don't need to worry about parking under a tree... ;D .  We could not get our motosat to work reliably and were so frustrated with them; they said we needed new equipment at the tune $$$.

BTW, when we were in the Tetons we saw a very large bull moose....what fun!

Marsha~
 
Marsha/CA said:
Linda, I just finished the book 1776 by David McCoullagh (spelling) which documents George Washington's early involvement in the American Revolution.  It was very good.  Since I'm a DAR, I was especially interested in it.

We dumped our motosat a couple of years ago and now use air cards via a cradlepoint router which is much faster; and we don't need to worry about parking under a tree... ;D .  We could not get our motosat to work reliably and were so frustrated with them; they said we needed new equipment at the tune $$$.

BTW, when we were in the Tetons we saw a very large bull moose....what fun!

Marsha~

If you're going to QZ or Moab, can I do a quick read?  I'm currently reading about Teddy Roosevelt.

Great info on the Motosat.  It's been a money pit, and I am so unhappy about paying monthly and getting nothing for it.  So, this info is great!!!

So glad you saw the moose!  Where's his picture?
 

Latest posts

Forum statistics

Threads
131,752
Posts
1,384,328
Members
137,524
Latest member
freetoroam
Back
Top Bottom