Day 19

Day 19

February 5, 2015

Miles: 2638 (I looked at the tripometer that hasn't been cleared since we started our journey, so it's most accurate for all the driving We've done...)

I cheated a little.  I started my blog for day 19 within the 24 hour clock on my phone so the post would log on the correct day.  However, I then cashed in my sleep chips cos dang I was TIRED! And I knew L&M would wake me at some ungodly hour to go outside and then I'd be stuck awake.  Thus, it's second watch, 2 bells at home; it's first watch, 8 bells as we sit; it's first watch, 6 bells on my phone (since we've actually cross the time zone line but the location we stay at works on AZ time).  To say my body (and my phone) is confused would be an understatement.

Thursday was good, mostly.  For some reason every time we get ready to go, some people get a little too spazzy while we are packing up to weigh anchor.  I really wish I could just get everything done myself, but I know that isn't fair to those that actually want to do something.  And it's extremely crazy on my part to not utilize the extra hands to help.  Maybe I need to devise a checklist for each of us.  Divide all the tasks to be completed and have them printed out so we each have our list and we can stay out of each other's way and still get things done quickly and efficiently... Yes, I think that's what needs to be done.  Before you saying anything, I realize that is micromanaging.  Trust me, I know it and I hate to do it really but this additional stress with not knowing what was or wasn't taken care of and by whom.... I just have to find a way to make this all easier.

If you couldn't tell, we packed up and headed further West.  We are camped for a few days near Yuma, AZ, on the CALIFORNIA side, obviously!!  It's quite nice out here, really.  I can't tell if the haze we've been seeing is a vehicular pollution or if it's evidence of southern Mexico burning, but all the mountains have a much more subtle presence now.  The horizon is blurred in all directions.  But man does it make a beautiful sunset.  As Brover pointed out tonight (we had a nice chat for the first time in a while... I miss him), the sunsets on the west coast seem bigger somehow. And now that we are getting closer to the actual coast, I'm noticing it more and more.  Don't get me wrong, the Texas sky will always be the biggest, but there is something about the skies out here....

Either way, found an actual dog park today for the pack.  DQ and I took them in while Grumpy sat in the truck and pouted (not getting into that now).  Lil and Roo were in their element since I started them on dog parks as soon as I could.  For the first time, Jackrabbit seemed to enjoy himself as well.  He was social and friendly. It was kinda fun seeing him out there carrying on with all the other dogs.  Luce, well, bless her heart. The park is right near the airport so of course anytime a plane came close she hightailed it to the gate so someone would let her out to get back in the truck.  I've never seen a dog so obsessed with a truck. le sigh. Weird dog.

I set up a little sitting area outside for us.  Part of the problems we are having as a crew is lack of socializing.  So maybe if we set up the "porch" then we can sit outside and meet more neighbors?  Hope this works.

I hope we figure out some semblance of unity soon.  There seems to be growing tensions and frustrations.

Off to take a real shower, with hot water.

I love you. 

I miss you. 

Goodnight!

Xx