Catching Up After a Long Absence

You may know that we lost Russell's Mom on April 17th, exactly 2 months shy of her 88th birthday. She has been in failing health for several years and too weak to hold her own weight for the last few months. We elected to not add to her confusion by moving her to a nursing home and instead moved in to be with her. It was a period of confusion, frustration, and many funny stories. We also had time to enjoy being together and reflect on what's ahead. Betty was able to leave her failed body and rejoin all of the people she was missing here on earth. As our friend Linda said, "She is living again!"

However, we were ready to hit the road again and resume our own lives. We did that, leaving Texas for the first time since October. We drove a new route through west Texas in hopes of missing the many fires, but you can't miss the evidence of fire much anywhere in west Texas. We know the consequences of fire and felt terrible for the people involved.

We saw majestic sunrises and sunsets driving through New Mexico and Arizona and talked about the place we have been. We speculated about others that we will have to stop and see; next time.

One dramatic difference from our last trip west was the stretch north of Kingman, AZ approaching the Nevada border. Last year the road and bridge bypass over Hoover Dam were under construction and an absolute nightmare. All of that is finished! The new highway is beautiful and a dream to drive. We were especially excited to see Hoover Dam from the bridge and the view did not disappoint. We will go back soon to park and walk the bridge for the full effect.

Over the last years of travel, we have used the opportunity to investigate real estate and the prospects of living outside of Texas. We've checked out high-rises in cities and raw property in the countryside, cabins in the mountains and bungalows on the shore. We've considered cost of property, taxes, ease of living, winter climate, availability of health care and nearby activities. We want to continue RVing, just have a home-base for winter.

When Russell saw an article about Las Vegas, it seemed a natural choice to both of us. The city was attractive for all of the above reasons and made even more feasible by the very anemic housing market here. Luxury cars are more expensive than some of the condos we've seen. We have narrowed the field and hope to have a winter home soon. We will put out the "OPEN" sign and expect company! However, there is much to be done...like actually making a purchase!

We are enjoying Vegas for the month, affirming that this really is a place of diverse activities, but we are talking about the next destination. As Russell's cousin Gary said, "You just wonder what's over the next hill!"