GOD KNEW I NEEDED YOU

Showing posts with label Mr. Complication. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mr. Complication. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

EXCEPTIONAL~Self-Care 2026; Castle Rock-WA


This morning, I eased into the thrust of the Resurrection message with a follow-up of Yeshua's entire mission before He left Earth … and am anticipating the upcoming Pentecost message, a couple weeks from now.

Today's earlier Post: April 6, 2026 - HU YAVO-He Will Come: (https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2026/04/hu-yavo-he-will-come.html)

Just like the seasons change and shift, we are reminded that change and growth go hand in hand. When it comes to growth, we must step outside our comfort zones and feel a little “uncomfortable” sometimes: pushing through the discomfort, you may discover beautiful things yet to be explored ๐Ÿง

I think this is something we grow into - realizing our time isn’t endless ⏳, and it deserves to be spent in ways that actually fill us up ๐Ÿ‘, not drain us ๐Ÿ”Œ It’s not about shutting people out ๐Ÿคจ, it’s about holding onto the parts of our day that bring personal peace ✌️

What brings me personal peace is workouts ๐Ÿ’ช and designing ๐Ÿ“:

The Darebee Choosing To Be Exceptional workout is safe for a 69-year-old woman to do. The workout is accessible and can be done anywhere, making it a convenient option for those looking to improve their fitness without the need for gym memberships or expensive equipment. This Full Body Workout is designed to be simple, safe, and accessible, making them suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, including seniors. The bodyweight training aspect of the workouts helps to reclaim strength, balance, coordination, and energy, which are essential for maintaining quality of life and mobility; emphasizing the importance of movement and choice in achieving exceptional results. The workout can be tailored to suit individual fitness levels and goals, ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit from the program. I've also added some alternative # exercises following the Darebee Worksheet, for those who may need the alternatives.

Muscles Worked
Squats~Aim for 10 reps x2Push-Ups~Aim for 5 reps x2Bridges~Aim for 10 reps x2Bicycle Crunches~Aim for 10 L & 10 R x2Reverse Crunches~Aim for 5 reps x2Supwerwoman Stretch~Aim for 5 reps x2
Darebee Exceptional Workout [How-To] Video/1 Set: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2qsMvBrKNk)

Squats are generally safe for a 69-year-old woman to do, provided she follows proper guidelines and modifications, if needed. Squats enhance lower body strength and cardiovascular fitness - this workout includes various squat variations that target multiple muscle groups, such as the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and abdominals. Here are some key points to consider: it's crucial to perform squats correctly to avoid knee pain and other injuries. Proper form includes keeping the back straight, knees tracking over toes, and not allowing the back to round. Modifications: Women can also perform less strenuous squats with chair assist (shown following the workout sheet). You can also utilize a wall to perform squats, to build strength safely. Personalized Approach: The number of squats to do daily should be personalized based on an individual's fitness level, health status, and experience with strength training.

Arm Extension Squats~Aim for 10 reps x2

#Chair squats are a versatile, low-impact exercise that can be adapted for all fitness levels, making them an excellent addition to any strength or functional training routine. Chair Squats help build leg strength, glute tone, and core stability while being low-impact and accessible for beginners, older adults, or those recovering from injury. They also improve posture, balance, and functional movements such as sitting down and standing up from a chair, which translates to better performance in daily activities. Additionally, chair squats can support bone health, particularly in the hips and spine, making them suitable for individuals concerned with osteoporosis. How to Perform Chair Squats: Use a chair that is stable and not on wheels; a firm dining chair or sofa can work if needed. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing forward, and spine neutral. Engage Core: Keep your chest lifted and core tight. Lowering Phase: Bend your knees and push your hips back, lowering your butt toward the chair. Gently tap the chair with butt without fully sitting down. Rising Phase: Press through your heels, engage your glutes and hamstrings, and return to standing.

Chair Squats~Aim for 10 reps x2

Floor Push-ups can be challenging - but safe, for a 69-year-old woman, especially if she has not been performing this exercise regularly. It is crucial to start with wall push-ups or other easier variations to reduce the amount of body weight being lifted and the strain on the joints. As strength improves, the woman can gradually progress to floor push-ups. It is also important to focus on maintaining proper form and technique to prevent injury. If wrist pain is an issue, using push-up bars or dumbbells can help maintain a neutral wrist position and reduce discomfort. Regular practice of push-ups can help rebuild and maintain muscle mass, counteracting age-related muscle loss and improving overall physical function.

Floor Push-Up~Aim for 5 reps x2

#Incline Push-ups can be a safe and effective exercise for a 69-year-old woman, provided she follows proper form and safety guidelines. Here are some key points to consider: Proper Form: Incline push-ups require a straight body line, engaging the core, and keeping elbows at a 45-degree angle to protect joints. Wrist Pain: If she experiences wrist pain, she can place a rolled-up towel under her palms. Core Engagement: A strong core is crucial for stability and posture, helping prevent lower back strain during the movement. Consistent Progress: Incorporating incline push-ups into her routine 2-3 times per week, slowly increasing reps or moving to a more difficult variation as strength improves. Heed Your Body's Signals: If you feel pain, stop immediately. It's best to regress to an easier modification rather than pushing through discomfort.

Bodyweight Incline Push Press~Aim for 5 reps x2

#Wall Pushups for a 69 year old woman, can be a safe and effective exercise if performed with proper technique and precautions. Proper technique is key to ensuring safety, and starting slow and gradually building strength, is advised to avoid overexertion or injury.

Wall-Push-ups~Aim for 5 reps x2

Bridge exercises are generally safe for a 69-year-old woman to perform, provided she follows proper form and is mindful of her fitness level. The bridge exercise is a functional movement that translates directly to everyday activities like getting up from a chair or walking. Its benefits for older adults are numerous, and it is a safe, accessible exercise that requires no special equipment. Here’s why it’s a cornerstone of senior fitness: Strengthens the Core: A strong core supports the spine and helps improve overall posture, which can be particularly beneficial for those with lower back pain. Enhances Balance and Stability: By strengthening the glutes and lower back, bridges help improve stability, reducing the risk of falls. Supports Back Health: This exercise strengthens the muscles that support the lumbar spine, which can help alleviate common lower back issues. Boosts Hip and Glute Strength: Strong gluteal muscles provide power for walking and climbing stairs, while strengthening the hips aids in mobility. Improves Posture: Engaging the back and core muscles helps seniors stand taller and with better posture. Here are some key points to consider: Proper Form: Ensure that the woman is lifting her hips upward in a controlled movement while engaging her core and gluteal muscles. This is crucial for safety and effectiveness - forgetting to brace the abdominal muscles can put extra pressure on the lower back. Actively engage your core throughout the entire movement = suck in & hold stomach muscle firm. Start Slow: Begin with easier modifications like the supported bridge or reduced range of motion to build confidence and strength safely. Listen to Your Body: If you feel pain, stop immediately. Exercise should feel like a muscle-building effort, not pain. Consistency: Incorporating bridge exercises regularly, even in short sets, is more effective for long-term strength and stability. Use Support as Needed: Instead of holding the hips up in the air, place a yoga block, firm pillow, or rolled-up towel under your sacrum (the bony part at the base of your spine) for support. This allows you to reap the benefits of the stretch and muscle engagement without needing to hold yourself up. Breathe deeply in this supported position. Reduced Range of Motion: Lift your hips only a few inches off the floor, rather than creating a full straight line. Focus on the core and glute engagement in this smaller movement. Bridge on a Bed: If getting on the floor is difficult, the exercise can be done on a firm bed. The slightly elevated surface can make it easier to position yourself.

Bodyweight Glute Bridge~Aim for 10 reps x2

The safety of Bicycle Crunches for a 69-year-old woman depends on her overall health and fitness level. While the exercise can be beneficial for many, it is essential to consider the individual's spinal health and any existing conditions. Spinal Health: The exercise involves flexing and rotating the spine, which can place stress on the intervertebral discs. If the woman has a history of back pain or osteoporosis, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before performing bicycle crunches. Core Strength: A strong core is crucial for stabilizing the spine during the exercise. If the woman's core strength is compromised, she may be at a higher risk of injury. Technique: Proper execution of the exercise is key to minimizing the risk of injury. In conclusion, while bicycle crunches can be beneficial for many, they should be approached with caution, especially for individuals with specific health concerns or those who have difficulty maintaining proper form.

Bicycle Crunch~Aim for 10 L & 10 R x2

#For seniors looking for alternatives to air bikes for HIIT workouts, there are several effective options that can provide similar benefits. Here are 2 alternatives to consider: High Knees: is generally considered safe for a 69-year-old woman to do, provided she follows the guidelines for safe exercise practices. Here are some key points to consider: Strength and Balance: This exercise can enhance strength and balance, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining mobility. Proper Technique: Ensure proper form and technique to avoid injury. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort and stop immediately if needed.

High Knee Steps Exercise.~Aim for 10 L & 10 R x2

#Cardio Mini Cycle Exerciser: Biking is a powerful cardio workout; the large muscles of your lower body will get a boost in strength from biking. During pedaling, you mainly work the thigh muscles (quads, hamstrings) and glutes, as well as the calf muscles; but start with short, low-intensity sessions of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the duration as your endurance improves. You can split the total time into several shorter sessions, such as two 5-minute sessions. Focus on consistency and gradually incorporate more resistance to challenge yourself and achieve the best results.

Weighted down to keep it from bunny-hopping ahead; feels like a 10-speed changing gears.~Aim for 10 minutes of pedaling x2

Leg-lift Crunches are not recommended for a 69-year-old woman due to the potential risks associated with these exercises. Leg-lifts can flatten the lumbar spinal discs, while crunches can put excessive stress on the lower back and neck. Try doing wall mountain climber planks instead, as this takes stress off the back while building up the core muscles.

Leg-lifts Crunches~Aim for 5 reps x2

Planks effectively strengthen the core muscles vital for maintaining stability and preventing falls in seniors. Wall Mountain Climber Planks can be safe for a 69-year-old woman if her overall health & fitness level, has been maintained; if she is in good health, has a stable cardiovascular system. You should listen to your body, prioritize proper form over duration, and stop if you feel any sharp pain, especially in her lower back or wrists. It is important to note that while planks can be beneficial, they should be approached with caution, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those who have experienced injuries in the past.

Wall Mountain Climber Planks Exercise~Aim for 5 reps EA Leg x2

The Superwoman Stretch exercise is generally considered safe for older adults, including a 69-year-old woman, as long as it is performed correctly and with proper technique. However, it is essential to consider individual health conditions and any concerns that may arise, especially for those with pre-existing health issues or concerns about joint health. Listen to Your Body: If you feel pain, stop immediately. Exercise should feel like a muscle-building effort, not pain.

Avoid lifting your head too high. While it may feel like you're getting a better workout by lifting your head, it can strain your neck and lead to discomfort. Instead, keep your head in a neutral position, aligned with your spine. Do not arch your back excessively. This can put undue stress on your lower back and lead to pain. To avoid this, engage your core muscles and focus on keeping your back flat throughout the exercise. Practice proper breathing; It is essential for maintaining stability and maximizing your performance. Inhale deeply through your nose as you lift your arms and legs, and exhale slowly through your mouth as you lower them.

Superwoman Stretch; Hold this position for a count of 2, while breathing steadily~Aim for 5 reps x2

I relaxed by drinking a refreshing cup of Caramel flavored coffee - and laughed out loud, when I glanced outside and my imagination kicked in ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿ˜‚ Maybe I was a little loopy after that invigorating workout; or maybe I should not indulge in a full-bodied 2nd cup of coffee: I swear I saw Bigfoot with a mohawk, standing at the edge of my front yard ๐Ÿค”: I took a picture ๐Ÿ“ธ & enhanced it with some highlighted features ✍️; hoping maybe you can see him, too.

I have a pretty active imagination with the cloud formations, too ๐Ÿ˜‰

Still chuckling every time I glanced outside, I managed to get the bedding switched out ๐Ÿงบ & the finished afghan was spread on the bed ๐Ÿ›Œ - with the long ends tucked under at the edges: I'm pleased ๐Ÿ‘Œ with the way it turned out; I didn't expect to be, when I ran out of yarn in Coalinga-CA: we drove into town to buy more … but the holiday season was over, and the sparkly white & pink ombre was no longer available, anywhere. Holland had driven me to every yarn store in Hanford-CA, with no luck forthcoming. So, I saved the special balls of yarn for the end panels ๐ŸŽฏ๐Ÿงฃ, rewrote my pattern in the making ๐Ÿ’ก✍️, & finished the main body of the afghan in alternating black-red-yellow-& green chevrons, and hoped it wouldn't look too weird when completed. The end result turned out a whole lot better than anticipated, and I'm sure Yeshua ☝️ (Who has designed, crafted, & created everything, so beautifully) had a hand in that, and gave me a wink ๐Ÿ˜‰ when I stood back looking at it and feeling very thankful that it actually looked quite artistically nice ๐Ÿ˜

MOD XXXL Chevron St. Afghan

It is also v.e.r.y. heavy; I get a workout ๐Ÿ‹️‍♀️๐Ÿ˜ฑ just hefting & spreading it; I designed it to fit my giant bear of a man … but, Mr. Complication ๐Ÿค  is currently in the dog house ๐Ÿคจ

George Thorogood & The Destroyers - 'Move It On Over' Lyrics:  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZwPl7vO0uo&list=RD1ZwPl7vO0uo&start_radio=1)

That said, I hope your day - as mine was - was filled with exceptional moments, wrapped in peaceful joy, and touched with the gentle reminder that He is risen, that hope is alive, and that His love is still making all things new ๐Ÿ˜˜

Thursday, January 30, 2025

A GIFT; Fortuna-AZ

I do love my Gift, and I am thankful for Elohim's gifting … but sometimes, Mr. Complication can make the Day a challenge.

Today was challenging.


Neither one of us feel very well at the moment, and testiness was sparking; so, I gathered my stuff and retreated to the spare room that I am using as my {creative space}: where I can shake the challenging moment off ๐Ÿ™, veg out, listen to some old school tunes (today's selection was 'The Doors', 'Iron Butterfly', 'KC & The Sunshine Band' & 'Wild Cherry'), and keep my hands busy with something productive until the friction settled ✌️

I also watched the Tulsi Gabbard interrogation, where the shameless demonrats highlighted their hypocritical selves to the nth: they intend to make this second President Trump Term, as difficult as they did the 1st. All they are focused on - as they have been with e.v.e.r.y.s.i.n.g.l.e. nominee to date - is angrily grilling the nominee to find out if they are going to be prosecuted the same way they prosecuted President Trump in and out of the White House, the past 8 years. It's sad that this is what the world is seeing of our Government: uncontrolled NWO obamanite brats in full-throttle-bratty meltdowns - the obamanites and rhinos all need to be spanked soundly and sent to bed for long naps (God knows, the majority of them are walking cadavers, only kept alive by the sparking lust of political power that generates those political asses). It was clear to me that the Trump Derangement Syndrome is not going to go away any time soon. I couldn't take any more of the hypocritical hype (with one old fart shouting so furiously at Tulsi, spittle flew towards his hot mic), so I made a lunch sandwich, and found a movie to watch ๐Ÿ˜Š

BLT Lunch Sandwich, with garlic on the side ;-)

I just don't have the time to give to nonsense - we are dealing with real life situations here: I'm not going to get sucked into a political brawl over tarnished crowns: all politicians swim in the same pond - one portion of the pond may be murkier and muddier … but, it's still the same pond. And though I do support President Trump because I believe he really does have the best solutions to what ails America; but I am not happy with all of his decisions. I am nobody's fool. I watch. I listen. And time always tells.

Speaking of time … thank Elohim for the dust storms that kept us from getting to Brownsville-TX!

We have both been watching various news sources for information about gang activities, border jumpers that use power saws to cut through the Border Wall, and drug cartels with itchy trigger fingers: we currently are about half an hour from the border: in Brownsville-TX, where we were wanting to go on our recent Holiday Road Trip, we would have been ON the border … where it is now being reported that drug cartels have placed live bombs, waiting to be triggered by movement.

WARNING ISSUED LAST NIGHT: "Travelers urged to be cautious as Mexican drug cartels plant explosives along Texas border."

A flyer, posted in Spanish, shows photos of the explosives and reads, "Don't touch, don't move, don't manipulate."

Patricia Driscoll, CEO of Cipher Group and a military contractor, expressed her concern.

"It's a shame that those are images I thought I left behind in the combat zone in Iraq and Afghanistan," Driscoll said. "Never in a million years we really thought that we would be seeing that so close to home."; reports also raise questions that the explosives could be a form of retaliation or warning, especially following President Donald Trump's recent executive order designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations.

Thank Elohim for the dust storms that kept us safe - our lungs do struggle, and we are energy-drained; but we are alive ๐Ÿ‘

After I finished off my sandwich, I got to work.

I patterned this knitted man's slipper after the vintage, "The Bootie" pattern - with a few modifications of my own, to fit my man ๐Ÿ˜‰

My man likes to wear camo … so, that is the color I used to make this gift for my Gift ๐Ÿ˜˜

BIG MAN SEED ST HOUSE SLIPPER~MOD Revised "Bootie" Pattern: Fortuna-AZ: 
(https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2025/01/big-man-seed-st-house-slippermod.html)

This knit slipper set will be good for him to slip on his feet in the warmer months … but, he prefers the heaver crochet Slipper Socks set in the cooler season; so, as I had some leftover yarn, I whipped up a new pair of those for him, too ❤️

BIG MAN HOUSE SLIPPER SOCKS~MOD Revised Unisex Slipper Socks:  (https://roadgypsiesvalandholland.blogspot.com/2024/01/big-man-house-slipper-socksmod-revised.html)

Yes, Mr. Complication is a complicated Gift - but, I want every blessing from this gifting that Elohim has for me.

Life is a Gift.

Love is a Gift.

Sometimes both get messy; and that's okay.


I'm going to continue to trust Elohim's Plan as I infuse our home with comfort ๐Ÿ™ - He knows what's best for me & He' never steered me wrong ๐Ÿ˜

Thursday, December 19, 2024

REDEMPTION, PT #1~Oatman-AZ


December 16th: I titled this Blog entry, "Redemption", because Holland went out of his way to get me to the donkeys in Oatman-AZ, before we leave Arizona.



When Holland told me a couple days ago, "this marriage has been over for a long time" - I just emotionally withdrew, and pulled into myself: facing an unknown and uncertain future - love (a feeling I never expected to feel again, and a feeling Holland treacherous cultivated) has nowhere to go. A life tilted - twice now (widowhood, the 1st time; and callously withheld, this time in a power play move); with me wondering if it would ever be righted again. When I did speak, I said, "Okay; if that's the way you want things, I'm not going to fight you anymore about your choice. I am still surrounded by love: my two other Husbands have never abandoned me - they loved me; they love me, still. I will live my life, drawing on  their love to help me go forward." Holland looked confused, and asked, "You were married twice?" I said, "No. I was married once, for 44 years; but, I am also the Bride of Christ since 1965 … therefore, I have 2 Husbands. You aren't ready to be a Husband, Holland; you swore you wanted me for your wife … but, you never really wanted to be a Husband, and you have bucked against marriage every day for the past 23 months - I've missed you in my Life, and I will miss you in my Life; but I'll be okay because I am never alone. I am surrounded by a Heavenly Host, and my Husbands' love surrounds me on all sides."

So, I'm pulling back and drawing on the strengths I drew on as a Widow before I became a Wife, again. There’s no more time for other people’s bullshit. When raw grief cracks a person wide open and leaves them helplessly exposed (as Bob's physical death did, in the winter of 2018), I quickly learned what’s worth hard work, what’s worth my depleted emotional energy, and what’s not worth any of my time or energy at all. I am not giving any more of my precious time to a situation Holland has already given up on.

We are still legally married, though Holland has initiated a separation. I'll still be here when he decides to ditch the Redmill caveman mentality; but for the time being, I am unavailable be toyed with: physically (I am not going to be used; by anyone, for any reason) - and emotionally (I am going to protect my internal peace, and give my poor heart a break). He does not get to be rewarded for treating me badly.

My widowing years revealed there’s no room for other people’s bullshit, or trauma drama in my life anymore. It has taught me the importance of focusing on things that really, truly matter. I have learned – up close and personal – how fleeting our time on Earth is; and I am determined to make what little I have been granted, count for all it is worth.

Life is short.

Life can be gone in a heartbeat.

I don’t know what the future holds for me; and I really have no plans at all for how to proceed forward, other than just placing one foot in front of the other and moving forward.

So, that's what I did this morning - I didn't overthink all the ramifications of accepting Holland's offer to take me on a Daytrip to Oatman-AZ: I just packed, and went. 

Unquestionably, Mr. Complication is a major complication, and our current situation is a weird reality. But, this weirdness is his {normal}: this weirdness is "the Redmill Way'.

Pat's text; forging new friendships are important - but keeping marital connection lines open, is more important.

Today's Daytrip is a redemptive action; Holland wants to maintain a friendship between us - friendship is workable, if the lines don't get blurred on his end.

Blythe-CA from Fortuna-AZ; 1 hr 45 min (98.5 mi) via US-95 N
Today's Daytrip Plan …
Shaved head contemplation ;-)

Holland had planned this Oatman-AZ Daytrip to travel a new route: he had never been this way before, either. Normally, he would have gone via the Havasu route, but we've driven through Havasu City many, many times - and since this is  my BD month, he planned something new.

Castle Rock Mountain-AZ; we had visited the Castle Dome Mines Ghost Town, there - under that large domed rock.
The Bug Station was closed - one less detainment along the route. YAY!

When we drove through Quartzsite-AZ, on our way to Blythe-CA, we both noticed, and commented, that there doesn't appear to be that many snowbirds flocking to the BLM land sites (Bureau of Land Management) - there were very few set-ups: it looked like a ghost town, compared to how it usually looks. Normally, by this time of year, RV's are so jam-packed, bare land is hardly visible.

Passing through Blythe-CA, trying to locate the tie-in road needed to reach Hwy #95-CA (GPS was being a putz & misdirecting us), we unfolded the paper map … I gave Holland the directions according to the Map, and he didn't think that was right; so, he pulled over - read the Map himself, and pulled back out on the roadway to continue forward. When he spotted Road #6 (that I had told him about), he said, "Huh; you were right, after all …"

So, I laughed and asked him repeat that statement twice more ;-)

Fields of cotton everywhere; Blythe-CA
Trying to locate the road we need to tie into Hwy. #95-CA
Paper Map employed.
Affirmation sounds SO GOOD ;-)
GPS is easily confused - and to be fair … we are all on a route none of us have ever been on, before.

We passed through Indian Reservation Land, located in San Bernardino County: Holland says this is the largest county in CA (with 20,105 square miles) - the county's surrounding counties include Inyo to the north, Kern and Los Angeles to the west, Orange and Riverside to the south, and Nevada and Arizona to the east. Holland has lived in & worked in every part of San Bernardino County … though this part, is new to him; as well as to me. Together, we've been through Needles several times, we've stayed a couple months in Barstow. I always enjoy a week or two, in Barstow ;-)

San Bernardino County is also the largest county in the United States, excluding boroughs in Alaska. It's slightly larger than the states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island combined, and is also slightly larger than Switzerland.

We passed through what used to be a thriving little desert town, named Vidal-CA; but there really wasn't much to see - train tracks; a couple of colorfully tagged vacant buildings, that looked to have been empty for a considerable amount of time (1 of them just had 2 walls standing); a motorhome graveyard; what appeared to be the train masters cottage; and a brightly painted house, well-tended to, that I found out was "Wyatt Earp's Cottage" … and yu'all know how excited I get when we stumble upon Old West Memorabilia :-D

Vidal-CA
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vidal,_California)
Wyatt Earp's Cottage; Vidal-CA
(https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=78548)

Route #66's popularity led to its downfall: traffic swelled beyond its two-lane capacity, and in 1956 (the era of moi ;-)), legislation created the Interstate Freeway System. Over the course of three decades, five separate interstates bypassed segment after segment of Route #66 - Holland remembers the actual roadway, he tells me story after story of his mother driving back and forth on the original route to visit family members; it was replaced. Holland loves freeway travel; I love backroad travel: today he is "treating me" with a Christmas-BD Roadtrip that will include more Route #66 surprises before we leave here.

Coming into Needles-CA, there were piles of desert dirt and gravel piled up here and there, blown by the wind to where they stand (the wind blows through Needles, like a hurricane); and the color of these piles was a pretty emerald green. Holland says that is the natural color of the rock in this region. It was very pretty. I didn't get a picture of it because I was busy marveling at it. Then, behind that marvelous sight, were piles of red - Holland says these bright colors come from the minerals in the soil.

It was almost like the Spirit of Christmas had blanketed the gritty hills of Needles-CA ;-)

Temperature in Needles-CA
CA makes it pretty impossible to get roadside Route #66 'proofs" :-(

We spotted our first couple donkeys on the outskirts of Oatman: I was so excited!

Oatman-AZ from Blythe-CA; 2 hr 9 min (118.3 mi) via US-95 N
Donkeys! The little baby was a beggar - as soon as we rolled to a stop, he hoofed his little self right over to my window, looking for a handout :-D
He's such a cute furry little beggar … but we had nothing to feed him.
Donkeys everywhere along the road to Oatman.
Getting closer to our goal :-)


The Mining Ghost Town of Oatman-AZ, sits on the old Route #66. The Gold Road Mine opened there in the early 1900's ... and was home to a $10 million find that put the Town on the Map.

Though Oatman became a mining center … it actually got it's name from a teenage girl who was taken captive by marauding Indians - Holland told me this story weeks ago, when he planned the Thanksgiving Roadtrip there, that was postponed until now:

Oatman-AZ Lore~How Oatman Got It's Name: https://www.cedarcityutah.com/opinion/oatman-arizona-day-a-center-of-western-lore-and-lovable-burros/article_ee3c910f-0f52-5e9d-8930-eaf3729b42bc.html & https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/81424/retrobituaries-olive-oatman-pioneer-girl-who-became-marked-woman

The entire entrance into the Town of Oatman had been turned into a Desert Christmas Lane; with tinseled garlands, vintage Christmas Balls, homemade bric-ร -brac gewgaws … and I Iiked it ;-)

Christmas in the Desert :-D
Oatman-AZ sits at an elevated 2,700 feet, on old Route 66 (Highway #10, Oatman Highway) between Kingman-AZ, and Needles-CA
Christmas decorated Creosote Bush; Oatman-AZ

Elohim is so faithful to me this year's BD month: I have been missing my lighted Christmas Lanes drivebys - and here, in this arid desert wasteland, He provided Christmas color to delight my eyes draped over small, rounded, creosote bushes & the long, pokey, leathery leaves of Agave plants leading to the entrance of Main Street.


Christmas decorated Agave Plant; Oatman-AZ
Route #66 Donkey Crossing notation; Oatman-AZ
Arizona is an open-carry State: we like that!
Main Street; Oatman-AZ
The odor along Main Street was ripe with donkey droppings - but it was fun to watch the donkey's interacting with the people ;-)
I burst out laughing when I read this sign … I am a Gift. I am a diamond in the rough; and, I have a classy ass ;-)
Oatman's shot-gun-main street; about 7 minutes to walk both sides of the street.
A suckling donkey on a restricted diet, wearing warning stickies.

The mountains around Oatman are rich with gold, silver, and other minerals. At a time when gold was selling for $20 an ounce, miners removed more than $36 million from the mountains. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Oatman was a booming mining town with more than 10,000 residents, two banks, seven hotels, 20 bars, and a dozen other businesses.

There was so much gold in the mountains around Oatman that another rush—one of the last in the desert—occurred in 1915. This brought with it another influx of prospectors, miners, saloons, and other businesses. A newspaper, the Oatman Miner, was established and the town once again prospered for several years.

In 1921, a fire swept through Oatman, destroying many of the buildings. Miraculously it missed the Oatman Hotel which today is well-known for two reasons: It was where Clark Gable and Carole Lombard spent their wedding night after being married in nearby Kingman on March 18, 1939.

Durlin Hotel~Oatman Hotel-AZ: 
(https://www.nps.gov/places/durlin-hotel.htm)

Hotel Sign, now & in past days.

Clark Gable and Carole Lombard: https://carole-and-co.livejournal.com/991199.html

During World War II, however, the federal government needed other metals for the war effort and many of the miners left the area for higher-paying jobs. Some of Oatman’s mines shut down completely while others slowed their operations. In the 1950s, Route 66 was rerouted and the new interstate bypassed Oatman completely.

Mining machinery; Oatman-AZ
Vintage Gas Pumps & a well hand pump for fresh water, between the vintage towers.

Vintage gas pumps interest me, because they weren't boring hunks of metal; and I am old enough to remember my bio-father pumping gas into his vintage vehicles at some of these pumping stations along the highways.

Red Crown Gasoline was originally introduced by the Standard Oil Company in 1892, as a higher quality offering to its customers.

The Standard Oil Company was broken up in 1911, with over 30 different companies splitting apart and being created as a result. When the main Standard Oil Company was broken up, Red Crown Gasoline wasn't withheld by one gasoline chain, rather several of Standard's spin offs gained the rights to sell Red Crown. Some of these chains included - but are not limited to; Standard of Nebraska, Standard of Indiana (later known as Amoco), Sohio, and Standard of California (now known as Chevron) - just to name a few.

Research doesn't reveal exactly happened to Red Crown Gasoline, but the prevalent thread among all internet sources concerning this brand, indicate that the entire brand was dissolved sometime around 1967 … with Standard Oil Of Indiana being the last one to carry it.

We drove over a narrow, snaky road that took us around tight, sharp, hairpin corners along the highs and lows of the Sitgreaves Pass; which eventually led us to the famous Cool Springs Station that held a place in the history of Route #66's heyday … and a cameo in a Jean-Claude Van Damme movie - where it was blown to smithereens; very little of it remained after Hollywood-CA left Oatman-AZ

It was also a want on Holland's Bucket List list ;-)

Our route over Sitgreaves Pass, along Arizona's Route #66: elevation of 3,586 feet, in the Black Mountains of Mohave County, Arizona.
Sitgreaves Pass:  (https://barbaragregorich.wordpress.com/2020/03/01/mountain-passes-sitgreaves-pass/)
Very visible mine shaft opening …
The road over Sitgreaves Pass is very narrow, very steep, and very snaky - the people who traveled this original Route #66 roadway in bulky, heavy, elongated nosed vintage cars … with very dim headlights, deserve metals: the very skimpy and widely spaced very low rock & plaster-style {guard rails}, are silly on a road like this one!
This youngster was not happy with us when we arrived - he was very vociferous about his displeasure: I think Betsy's loud diesel motor noise, probably hurt his tender eardrums.
I hiked a bit uphill to get a backwards glimpse of the hell ride we survived ;-)
You can see the distant zig-zag roadway through the mountains, as you look out over the peaky horizon; I like the view.
The top of the hillside was covered with burial tribute mementoes …
When I got back to Holland & Betsy … the noisy youngster was still hanging around - and blocking the passenger door; so, I gently petted him and wondered at his quivering; Holland thinks he may have been mistreated, so was scared. I climbed into Betsy through the passenger door on the driver's side and wiggled into my seat - no small feat for this chubby keenager, hahaha (Keenagers are 55+ persons that embody a youthful spirit & active lifestyle).
This stop was one of Holland's Bucket List "to do's" …
Cool Springs Station; #8275 Oatman Road, Historic Rte 66, Golden Valley, AZ
1920s Route 66 Gas Station: (https://www.route66coolspringsaz.com/history.htm)
Holland says the stone work is the original stone masonry. Cool ;-)
Holland bought a fancy root beer; I walked away with an over-sized Coke, a Route #66 Tee, a Route #66 Shot Glass, & a Route #66 Magnet.
55 Chevy pickup; Cool Springs Station-AZ
Vintage Gas Pumps; I remember the Pegasus pumps were bright red with a white globe globe topper and a red etched flying horse on it's face.
YES! We did ;-)

An then we were heading towards Kingman, where we planned to book a room for the night, stashed our duffel bag ... and drive to Aunt Gaye's, for a nice, long, visit :-)

I like Holland's Aunt.

Coming into Kingman-AZ; wind-blown sand sometimes erases the edges of highways, here.
Kingman-AZ from Oatman-AZ; 49 min (28.6 mi) via Co Hwy 10 & Oatman Hwy
These electric sci-fi looking truck are so ugly! They fascinate Holland, but their androgynous styling just turns me off.
On our way to Aunt Gaye's; Kingman-AZ

We had a fun time with Aunt Gaye - and plan to go back again, while in AZ

When we got back to our motel room, evening was settling on us, and the sunset was pretty.

Sunset; Kingman-AZ

We unwound by watching a movie before slipping off to Dreamland; though we are not playing the 'friends with benefits' game (not being a bitch, just protecting my balancing peace), Holland had planned another redemptive Daytrip for the following day to the Superstition Mountains.

Mr. Complication is a complicated complication.

Despite the weirdness of Life in the present, I am content. Except for the my husband's pig-headed devotion to the Redmill egotistical nonsense concerning marriage, I really do have a good life.

I know Who holds my tomorrows - and eventually Holland will realize that marriage is not a choke collar.

I need space.

And he needs time.


We got back home, here in Fortuna-AZ, before noon the following day; we'll hit the road again, Monday morning :-D

I bought the hoodie in Oatman - basically for the motto; and the black tee in Cool Springs; basically for the same reason - and I mentally sang the song while paying for them ;-)
John Mayer - 1961 'Route 66' Lyrics: 
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WEBDNKxYb0)
Nat King Cole was the original singer in 1946, but I like this upbeat version better - it's one I know ;-)