February 12 - 20, 2011 "Produce, Music & Mexico"

Finally……………..warm weather returns to the RGV, with highs near 80 and lows in the mid 60’s. Perfecto! Well almost. It’s windy here most days, with winds of 15-20 mph gusting to 30-35. We have gotten somewhat used to it, although when it’s whipping at 35 or better, it really rocks the rig. It’s funny, on windy days we don’t have many visitors; maybe the rocking rig makes them think, “Don’t go a knocking”. Hmmmmmm…………Afternoon delight?

Which leads me to an “interesting” topic; Just what do you and your significant other use as code word(s) for a little, shall we say, “making whoopee?” Here are a few we have heard here in this “Retirement Community”. We took a nap. We read a book. And from one of the guys, “I had cake for lunch”. That one took me awhile to figure out; but they are from Quebec, so now it makes sense. (Insert mini history lesson 101 - From Marie Antoinette, “Let them eat cake”. Google it if that doesn’t jog your memory.) Now, how in the hell did I get here? Starting talking about wind, and ended up eating cake. Guess we (us guys) do have a one track mind. (CC just nudged (?) me to get on with the Blog.) OK, on to other events of the week.

CC and I both enjoy fresh produce, and one advantage of staying here in the RGV, is the plethora of fruit and vegetables available. Our usual routine is to purchase on weekends and Wednesdays, that way we always have the freshest fruit and vegetables available. The pineapples here are to die for, and are mostly from Southern Mexico, they are soooo sweet and juicy; peeled and cored $3 each or 2 for $5. CC wanted some tangerines, and after peeling and tasting one, she commented, “this tangerine taste funny”, to which I replied, “yea, that’s because you’ve never had a FRESH one before.” (As always, click on any of the pictures to enlarge.)

While shopping for veggies, we stumbled across some local talent performing, a gentleman by the name of Lynn Dvorak; a classically trained, masterful musician that has played with numerous bands throughout his career. He plays the newest Yamaha TYROS keyboard, and records every track of all the songs he plays. He has worked with many notable entertainers over the years, including such stars as Rod McKuen, Gordon MacRae, Ray Price, Freddy Fender, Mel Tillis, Johnny Paycheck, Dave Dudley, Tammy Wynette, Myron Floren and JoAnn Castle from the Lawrence Welk Show. (Turn your speakers up, and click on the following link for a sample of his music from his website.) If you like it, and would like to hear more, just click on the “Links” at the top of his website, scroll down, and click on the “Reverbnation” link. We enjoyed him so much; we’re going back this Wednesday to hear him perform again and the cost for all of this, $0.00. Yes free. I’m starting to really enjoy this lifestyle. Now if someone would just come out with a good nickel beer, I’d be in hog heaven! Hope you enjoy the music.  

http://www.lynndvorak.com/music.htm

Of course, no week would be complete without at least one trip SOTB. I’ll leave you with the following photo, because after all, a picture is worth a thousand words. Choose yours very carefully! (Keep it clean as this blog is Rated RV-13)

Until next time, take care and stay well................

January 24 - 31, 2011 "Going to Mexico"

A number of our friends and family have expressed concern for our trips SOTB (South of the Border), to Nuevo Progreso, MX. There have also been warnings from the State Department, that travel SOTB may not be safe. I can only speak from personal experience, and say there are certain areas of any metropolitan city in the USA that one should be careful and prudent. I dare to say that ANYONE going into East Los Angeles, at night, flashing large amounts of money, would and could be a target of unscrupulous activity. The same is true SOTB. With that being said, I thought a photo essay of the trip across the border and back might ease some of the concerns our friends and family have for our safety.


Approaching the bridge at 9:30 AM this morning showed very little traffic, pedestrian or auto, in either direction. One thing I did notice was some freshly paved asphalt about 3” thick that had been laid in the southbound lanes, with numerous sensors and cameras surrounding that area. I have heard, but not confirmed, that these sensors, beneath the asphalt can sense the density of steel in any auto or truck, and if that “number” is greater than the manufactures specs, it will trigger a vigorous inspection by Customs and Border Patrol agents, that will assume the vehicle may(?) be trying to smuggle weapons SOTB to aid the drug cartels. Any importation of weapons or ammunition is strictly prohibited, and if caught, can result in long term imprisonment for the perpetrator.


Another set of sensors imbedded can actually track US currency, via the new magnetic strip placed in the currency. It is legal to take up to $10K US SOTB, but it must be declared. Any amount in excess of $10K is strictly prohibited. This action is a joint effort by US and Mexican authorities to prevent US dollars (drug money) from entering Mexico and being turned over to the drug cartels for operational expenses and to purchase illegal weapons. There is a $2 fee for vehicles to cross the bridge. For those that choose to walk across, parking on the US side is available for $2 for an all day pass. (Click on any picture to enlarge)

Pedestrians can cross for only $0.25 by merely placing their quarter in the turnstile, and walking across. There are not inspections or special permits/visas of any kind for pedestrians. If you have the dinero, that is all that is necessary.

The walk across the Rio Grande River is about ¼ mile.

Halfway across the bridge is the “Official” International Border with this sign of recognition.

As you descend into Mexico, there are a few young children and mothers yelling for pedestrians to give them “a nickel”.  Some people do, others don’t. Most of the young children are at the bank side of the bridge and stick their baseball caps between the supports of the bridge in an effort to extrapolate a “donation”.

Upon entering the Immigration and Customs area in Mexico, pedestrians aren’t even noticed. Just walk on through with no questions asked.

Pictured below is our neighbor, Carl, here at the park, with his “Harem” Jane, Carla and CC, at the entrance to Nuevo Progreso, MX.

Within the first block after crossing the bridge, you will notice the presence of the Mexican Military, armed and almost nonchalant about the coming and goings of the gringo’s.

This is the main street of Nuevo Progreso (NP), with numerous shops; mostly dental clinics and pharmacies, general merchandise stores, and restaurants. There is no need to exchange dollars for pesos, as dollars are the preferred currency here. According to long time Winter Texans, the prices in NP are somewhat higher this year when compared to last. There is much speculation, that the increase is due to paying the Cartels to stay out, OR, that many of the businesses are actually owned by the Cartels and they have added about 10-15% to last year’s prices. When we asked a few of the business owners about these theories, they all told us the same story, “NP is too small of a town for the Cartels to be interested in.” The real truth probably lies somewhere in between these theories, but either way, we have never felt threatened in the least.

Mainstream pharmaceuticals are definitely less expensive SOTB; on average about 60-75% less than in the US. Tequila is also a real bargain, as we have seen top quality brands such as Patron Anejo or Gran Centurion Anejo, or any premium Scotch, Gin, Vodka, Canadian, or Burbon, selling for about a third to a forth of their cost north of the border. There is no sales tax in NP, so the price posted is the price paid in stores. Street vendors are, as always, willing to “deal”; and will shout out “almost free today”. Even with the $1.25 per liter the State of Texas charges to import distilled spirits, it makes them a desirable purchase, to consume, or, as we do, give as gifts. (OK, we consume a little, but that’s all).

With shopping done, it’s time for lunch. Prices at most of the restaurants are comparable to the US. The real bargains in NP are at the sidewalk taco vendors, or the smaller cafes scattered around, where two can dine for as little as $5, excluding margaritas, which can be found for as little as $1 each.

As we head north to the border, passing many stores, street vendors, and an occasional beggar, we can see the Mexican Military.

Make sure you have your quarter for the fee to cross the bridge; if not, there are attendants that will make change for you. For those of you driving, the charge for the bridge crossing is $1.95.

This afternoon, we left Mexico about 4 PM, and the foot traffic was almost non-existent.

OK, better have your passports handy as you enter Customs and Immigration, pictured below. This is the only time you will be asked for any identification. The agent will also ask what items you are bringing back that you have to declare. My advice is to be honest, as the alternative may not be pleasant; seizure of item, and/or a hefty fine for trying to smuggle items into the US illegally. I have personally witnessed some that carry liquor across in shopping bags, and do not declare it, thus saving the $1.25 per liter Texas tax. IMHO, $1.25 is not enough to risk the hassle; if you can afford $10 - $30 for a bottle of liquor, you can afford to pay the modest tax.

Well, that’s all folks. You have successfully crossed into Mexico at Nuevo Progreso, and back into the US. You are now able to find you car and drive to the destination of your choice.

Until next time, take care and stay well…………

January 1 - 7, 2011 "Budget 2010 Final Numbers"

The final numbers are in; our first 6 months of “full timing”, total expenses averaged $3,523 per month. While we certainly didn’t live extravagantly, neither did we live like paupers, and much to my amazement, we were actually $648 per month under budget. When we began this lifestyle in May 2010, I had to “guesstimate” what our expenses would be. I know some full timers spend more, and some spend less. Could we live this lifestyle for $2,500 per month? Absolutely, as there is easily $1,000 per month in “wants”, not “needs”. (Click on image below to enlarge)

New Year’s Day, we were invited by our neighbors, Carl & Carla, to a afternoon feast of black eyed peas and chicken, served over white rice, and sided by coleslaw.  The recipe was developed as a personal gift to Carl by renowned Chef Paul Prudhomme, on their last visit to New Orleans.  Thanks to Carl, Carla, and Paul;  it was outstanding.

Do we really NEED to go to Nuevo Progreso, MX as often as we do? (Rhetorical question- no need to answer).  It is just one of those “wants” we could trim from the budget, but CC enjoys it, and I am in search of the ultimate $2 margarita AND the ultimate lunch under $5. Today’s trip started at Pancho’s for the best $2 “Rita” we have found, but we’re still searching. Then it was across the street to The Iguana House for Progreso style lonches; 5 for $4.99. CC and I split the order and we both left feeling very satisfied.

After lunch we ventured the 6 miles north to our home for the winter, Country Sunshine. The park is starting to fill, and today there were more people in the pool than usual, honing their “Bobbing” technique. Of course, CC and I are newbie’s, and MUST take every opportunity to develop our skills as well, as it was in the 80’s today, and the water was a wonderful 88 degrees.

Since we had a light lunch, we decided to pay a visit to the 6th Street Market, here in Weslaco. The ribeyes looked especially good, and at $8.99 per pound, were reasonably priced. Add a baked potato and a glass of wine, and diner at Chez Sol Crucero was served. Neither of us managed to finish our steak, since we are now on a change of lifestyle and are determined to shed a few LB’s that we have slowly put on while being here.

CC and I are out the door by 7:15 am, and walk for 2 – 3 miles before CC goes to one of her 8:00 am exercise classes. This week she had chair, Zumba, Yoga, and an advanced exercise class at our neighboring park, Southern Comfort. Both RV parks are Encore Properties, so we can take advantage of any activities / amenities provided at either park.

Now I know what you are thinking; not another trip to Nuevo Progreso? You betcha! CC and I just hate to turn down an invitation, and while perfecting our “Bobbing” skills every afternoon in the pool, someone mentions lunch SOTB, that is all it takes; we’re in. Do we look like we’re having fun yet? (Click on the picture to enlarge. Notice how bored to tears everyone looks - NOT)

That sums up our week. We hope yours was as enjoyable as ours. It is predicted that the high today will only be 79, so we may just have to go to the pool. I know, it’s a tough life; so for all you rookies out there, don’t try this at home without adult supervision. Until next time, take care and stay well……

December 26 - 31, 2010 "Happy New Year"

Wow! 2010 has been a memorable year, and tomorrow I/we plan on sitting down and reflecting, but for now, I shall post a brief blog on our activities for the week, as it is New Years Eve, and CC and I have BIG plans ;-) (Wink, Wink) LOL

We have been sedentary too long, so a day trip was in order.  Today’s destination is Roma, TX.  Roma was founded in 1765 and incorporated in 1836.  It serves as a port of entry from Mexico into the U.S. via the Roma-Ciudad Miguel Aleman International Bridge.  Prior to Texas independence from Mexico in 1836, the town was listed as under the jurisdiction of the town of Mier, Mexico and served under Spanish rule.  Many old original buildings still exist, albeit in a state of disrepair. (Click on images to enlarge)

We stopped and talked with a fellow Border Patrol Agent, as we gazed across the river, and he commented that most of the “fishermen” on the banks were really "scouts for the Cartel", and as soon as he would leave his post, they would throw the rafts in the water and try to make it across the Rio Grande in broad daylight, no less.

From Roma, it was southeast bound for Los Ebanos, the only hand drawn ferry crossing on any of the US borders. When you drive down the curving old highway that leads to Los Ebanos, it is like driving into a land that time forgot. On either side of this rural road, native greenery such as a wide variety of cacti and mesquite trees thrive. The chains of rolling, pebbly hills which come to an abrupt end at the rusty, railroad tracks have yielded numerous legends of lost buried treasure and several ghost sightings, unique to the area.

And today, New Years Eve, we once again ventured to Nuevo Progreso, in search of the elusive $15 Gucci purse for CC. Some would argue that they are forgeries, and I would have to agree. But why one would spend $600 - $2,000 for a purse is foreign thinking to me. After all, a purse is a purse is a purse, and is merely a carrier of “stuff”; pictures to follow as soon as we can reclaim it from customs.

From CC and I, we wish you all a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Until next time, take care and stay well……….

November 3 – 18, 2010 - "We be Winter Texans"

We arrived at our new “home” for the winter in Weslaco, TX, the Country Sunshine RV Park. http://www.rvonthego.com/Country-Sunshine.html Originally, we had planned to stay here until Dec. 15, and move to either a different park in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), OR, move to Arizona. The first week we were here, we drove around and looked at 20 – 25 different parks in the RGV, extending from Mission, TX on the west end to Port Isabel on the east end, a distance of about 60 miles. We also charted average daily high and low temperatures, not only in the RGV, but Arizona as well. After we discovered that the RV parks in Arizona are about 40% - 50% more than they are here, AND, the average temps in Arizona are 4 – 7 degrees cooler, we decided to extend our stay here until March 15. CC and I have made an appearance at the heated pool (85 degrees) and hot tub (104 degrees) every day since our arrival.

With that decision behind us, it was time to do some exploring, so it was off to Nuevo Progreso, south of the border, in Mexico. From our new “home” it’s a 5 mile drive to the parking lot, where $2 allows for all day parking. Walk up to the bridge, pay your $0.25 each and walk across. That’s it; no inspections, no customs, no immigration – nada. It didn’t take long to realize we were in Mexico, as the street vendors were aggressively “hawking” their wares as we strolled down the sidewalk. It reminded us of landing in Puerto Vallarta and being bombarded by the time share sales people at the airport. We just smiled, replied, “no gracias”, and kept walking. By the time we had covered 3 blocks, we were both in need of some refreshment, so we stopped at one of the many sidewalk bars, the Red Panty Bar. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ob-1/3323032415/

On to lunch, at The Arizona, where for $9.95 USD, two can dine with margaritas included. We chose the beef fajitas, and they were very good. The presentation is not exactly what we expected, but good, none the less, and the portions were sized perfectly for our appetites.

(CC blogs) I had the opportunity to go to a “Ropa” (Ropa vieja, which is Spanish for "Old Clothes"). Ropas are located in large buildings where the old clothes donated from Goodwill, Salvation Army and the like are piled up on the floor 10 or 12 feet high at times. Those interested shoppers can climb up on the piles and dig through, pulling and tugging for special treasures; the cost of these purchases is 20 to 30 cents a pound.

A Winter Texas couple here at County Sunshine had married earlier this year so the park residents decided to put on a mock wedding for them. Part of the wedding festivities was to find the wedding parties attire at the ropa. The ladies of the park invited me on this wonderful adventure. We had a lot of fun climbing, laughing, giggling, crawling, tugging and pulling clothes at three different ropa locations. At the end of the day the exhausted group found a bridal gown and numerous bridesmaids dresses in need of some alterations. (Pictured below, in the foreground is Gayle, the blushing bride) And finally, what better way to end a wonderful shopping trip, but with a dip in the pool.

Since South Padre Island (SPI) is less than 60 miles, we decided to make a day trip, and check out things just southeast of our “home”. It was wonderfully warm, around 83, when we arrived. I captured this flock of fledgling sandpipers as they scampered in the shallow waters looking for lunch, with watchful Mom nearby and out of the picture.

After a stroll along the beach, and some “shelling”, we decided it was time to silence our growling tummies. Daddy’s was recommended as THE place for seafood and Cajun on SPI. Starting with calamari, and culminating with the main entrée of blackened red snapper, topped with shrimp and crayfish, the food was fantastic.

The following day it was back to the grindstone, and our winter job with The Border Patrol of apprehending illegal immigrants.  In the picture below, CC and her partner, zoom by on their way up river to make an apprehension. No doubt the culprit was young, as CC the cougar, was wide-eyed as she flew by.

Neighbors here at the park, have told us about a “burger joint”, in nearby Donna, TX, Gonzales Burgers, with instructions to get there early, as they open at 10:30, and close when they are out of meat. It's difficult to see in the picture below, but there is NO signage at all; NONE. The place was very crowded, and we waited about 30 minutes after we placed our order, to get our meal. This place is truly amazing, no signs, no advertisement, only word of mouth that drives their business; the quintessential "American Dream Success Story". The burgers are HUGE, probably ¾ pound each. CC and I both ate only half, and were stuffed, so we took the remaining half home for dinner.

That pretty much sums up what we’ve been up to the last couple of weeks, not to mention a couple of pot luck and buffet dinners offered here at the park. These Winter Texans love to eat. If we have a meeting scheduled, be on time; but if there is food involved, get there at least 15 minutes early. As they say, “The early bird gets the worm”.

Till next time, take care and stay well…………………….