POST 1089; APRIL 04, 2013; WINDSOR, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

Two days ago, April 02, 2013, SAM AND ME said our goodbyes to Craig, Carson, Augie, and Karen...embarking on our fifth walk across America...about 3,200 miles, to the Peace Arch, Blaine, Washington.

Please say HELLO to KAREN ESTEY and AUGIE...both of whom rolled out of bed two hours earlier than normal to see us off.

The White House On The Corner where SAM AND ME have spent  pleasant days during 4 different visits. 

Karen asked if I could return to share  Christmas once again with them.

We shall see.

The Bridge over the Scuppernong River.  Crossing over meant we were really on our way.

Our first map.  Columbia, North Carolina is at the far right hand side at the start of the orange line.  Our first destination is at the home of Pat Dodson, at the split of the orange line.  From Pat's, we will take the upper orange line, following route 308 to the village of Windsor.

Clicking on the image will enlarge it making reading small print easier.

The orange lines come together again at the top near the large town of Roanoke Rapids, N.C., near the state of Virginia border.

We should reach Roanoke Rapids in 4 days...

We have been rushing to stay ahead of a major weather system bearing down on us from out of Texas...promising to bring strong winds, rain, large hail stones, and potential tornadoes. 

Mail Box Art.

The home of Pat Dodson, where SAM AND ME enjoyed Pat's company for two nights.

Please say HELLO to PATTY DODSON, our hostess for the past two nights.

During the day yesterday, Pat and I drove to her friend REE, living in the town of Plymouth, N.C.  Ree is suffering from multiple cancers, and further slowed down from reconstruction surgery of a crushed pelvic and left leg.  Ree is two years younger than I.  We chatted, we three, for a couple hours...leaving me with realization of my good fortune to walk to these brave exceptional ladies, making certain that I waste not a moment of the pain-free time they are being denied.

This is the sleeping arrangements...on the front porch of Pat's home...comfy on the cushioned couch fully protected from the elements. 

It is still quite cold in this part of North Carolina, but I was toasty all night, sleeping soundly in the quiet of the countryside.

Please say HELLO to SHIRLEY.  Shirley has her own cozy restaurant at the intersection of Route 45 and 308 on the outskirts of Plymouth, North Carolina.  Opening at 5:30 each morning, Shirley offers up delicious BBQ, along with many selections of sandwiches, soups, and meats...all prepared to each customer's desires. 

Since Patty, like Karen, sleeps late in the mornings, I walked the 2 miles to Shirley's for my egg/bacon breakfast on toasted bread...and a BBQ sandwich for the road.

Shirley and I agreed to share hugs if I put up a second pic.....

I came out ahead on this one !

Walking from Pat's on Highway NC 308, crossed the Middle River, which empties into the Sound.

By paying attention, discovered this rather large (about 1.5 foot long) turtle sunning on a log.

Wetlands extend some distance from the salt waters of the Sound.

The NC 308 roadway, however, proceeded to make a continuous shallow ascent from the Atlantic Ocean waters toward the distant Allegheny Mountains.

As we proceeded towards the town of Windsor, the massive storm was closing in on us...heavy clouding overhead...increasing cold descending...it was becoming a real race for SAM AND ME to reach a safe haven in Windsor before the rains began.

The "Southern" way of remembering historic moments from the past.  These signs are found throughout the South.

We reached downtown Windsor as the rain clouds moved overhead. 

We checked in at the local Bed and Breakfast Inn...only to find the $69.00 price beyond out budget.  The one motel, we discovered, was over 3 miles away on US 17, which we crossed over one hour ago...too far to return before the rain began.

;...I was beginning to become concerned that we would be caught unprotected from the gathering storm...decided to proceed out of town too find a spot to erect our tent and slip inside...SAM also fits INSIDE our tent...a bit cramped, but she is good company.

As we walked out of town, a pickup truck backed out of the driveway of a large historic-looking home.  I walked over to the truck, introducing myself, asking if the driver could recommend a nearby place where SAM AND ME could find protection from the imminent rain.

Please say HELLO to NEAL.

Neal listened to my plea...smiled...yes, I know just the place...for which Neal gave verbal instructions to find the Roanoke/Cashie River Center.  Explaining he had an appointment at the moment, but would meet us at the Farmer's Market, which led the way to the River Center.

SAM AND ME found out way to the Farmer's Market...and true to his word, Neal promptly drove up. 

Please click click to enlarge the above document.

Seems Neal the the Manager of the Non Profit organization...the ROANOKE/CHASIE River Center...one of three such centers...the other two being in the city of Washington, North Carolina (which we walked through two weeks ago), and surprise of all surprises, the Visitor Center in Columbia, North Carolina...only two blocks from The White House On The Corner...which I have visited in the past.

Neal showed us where we could set up our "camp" under extensive covered patios surrounding the building housing offices, meeting rooms, and educational rooms.  Then, Neal took me on a detailed tour of his highly unusual (for me) educational River Center.  For the next two hours, we enjoyed chatting about his involvement in formulating and leading hands-on classes on gardening, nature, the local river...which, by the way is the LONGEST River in the United States which begins and ends in the same County.

Neal then telephoned the local Sheriff's Office, explaining that "Bruce Maynard", walking across America, would be spending the night at the River Center - quite unusual...to which the Sheriff's Office responded...you mean SAM AND ME???...we already know Bruce...as he has been here before (indeed, I did walk through Windsor one year ago on my 4th crossing of the USA...and they remembered me).

So, SAM AND ME have been welcomed back...safely protected from the passing storm.

As Neal and I were chatting, the rain began...starting out with heavy HAIL and bitter cold.

Neal's map of the region served by his all volunteer organization.

As I type this blog update, I sit under the patio roof...fingers frozen to the bone...wearing all four of my sweaters and coats...and still shivering uncontrollably...IT IS VERY COLD...be we have shelter.

The ROANOKE/CHASIE River...about 100 yards from our overnight sleeping spot.  Taking this photograph, it was still hailing.

The main building as seen from the river.

SAM AND ME  will spend the night under the above protection...and grateful to have the pleasure to do so.

The rain is predicted to continue until mid-day tomorrow.  We will stay put until it is safe to venture out.  Our goal is to continue North on NC 308 toward Roanoke Rapids, which will take at least two more days.

The weather is predicted to be pleasant for the next few days.

Again, my mantra...around the next corner...over the next hill...awaits the that which we most wish for...

Thank you, Neal...and the town of Windsor for taking SAM AND ME in.

POST 1088; APRIL 01, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

The cold front passed through Columbia, North Carolina early this morning, bringing the most spectacular Spring day.  Another cold front is dipping into northern North Carolina tomorrow.  35 miles from Columbia the temperature will dip to 30 degrees - below freezing. 

All is ready for SAM and ME to begin our new Odyssey across America just after daybreak in the morning.  SAM is packed up, except for this computer.  No one - including myself - wants us to leave. 

Karen is entering a critical phase of her current cancer treatments...which she has endured for nearly 10 years...sometime tomorrow CT results will be known.  This afternoon Karen asked me if I had my DELTA Miles Card with me...yes, Karen, I have it and am prepared to fly back on a moment's notice.

I asked Karen how is it that I, a complete stranger, have been invited and embraced as a friend and family...she smiled...I collect people, Bruce...once accepted into our realm, you are ours forever.   Yes, Karen collects people...but unlike most of us, she does not let them go...countless of us love her dearly and count ourselves among the fortunate to be with her in spirit if not in person during this, the time when she is preparing to meet us once again...as Karen says..."on the other side".

With a heavy heart, SAM and ME will cross the Scuppernong River Bridge as Sol rises in the East... looking back once more on the White House On The Corner.

Took a stroll with SAM around town this morning, thanking my many new friends and neighbors for accepting me in their town...and saying goodbye for now. 

The Winery was my last stop before returning home.

Inside the Winery is the Coffee Shoppe of Shari and John, pictured in part above.  Among the most pleasant comfy coffee shops in all America.

Please say HELLO to GABRIELLA, daughter of Shari and John.  Gabby lives about 10 miles from Columbia and is dedicated to help Mom and Dad in their new endeavor.

Ordering a Cappuccino, I asked Gabby to prepare it as though she herself were to drink it...it was spectacular!

One block from the Winery is the Columbia Marina...now home to three sailing yachts...just across the street stands the White House On The Corner.

Please say HELLO to JOSE'.  Jose' hailed SAM and ME as we walked to town.  We chatted for nearly 30 minutes about Jose's wish to travel across America...free as SAM and ME seem to be...alas, his wife recently left him, leaving their children in his care...so, his obligations are first to his children...then perhaps, Jose' will embark on his dream trip.

Hearing more and more...Jose', like so many others, referring to SAM and ME as an inspiration...the reality that there really can be adventure and travel in their future...in the mean time, they follow SAM and ME here on our blog.

...a humbling place to find myself...what better way to enter into old age.

Our objective tomorrow is 28 miles from Columbia...West on US 64 to the home of Karen's friend Pat Dodson, who awaits SAM and ME for the night.

...and so, it begins again...

...for whatever reason, I admit to being just a bit afraid...SAM and ME will, however, do our best to be worthy of your following.

POST 1087; MARCH 30, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

Finally, Winter seems to be letting go.  Mornings are now in the mid 40s with highs around 65 or so.  The past two days found SAM and ME walking for 3+ hours west on US 64 and US 94 (the parallel service road)

The sinus condition is also diminishing day by day...but not yet gone...give it another day or two should do it.

A weather front is moving into Columbia within 24 hours and should pass by Monday night.  SAM is fully provisioned, tested, and ready to roll.  Physically, I, too, am OK.  Psychologically, however, I do not want to leave.

Karen and Craig have been spectacular hosts, making me feel as one of the family.  As I cross over the Scuppernong Bridge, I will take with me the promise of Karen and Craig to fly out to Bellingham just as soon as she has the current regimen completed...that is enough to sustain me.

Scuppernong River looking south from the Bridge.

US 64 as it crosses the Scuppernong River Bridge entering Columbia.

SAM coasting along on US 94...the US 64 service road.

Please say HELLO to JEWELL.  Jewell hailed as SAM and ME walked past.  We spent a good 20 minutes chatting about walking...and his project to police the yard of his friend's home.

Wetlands along US 64...all this time, thought these breathtaking flooded woods were swamps.  Am pleased I have been corrected...NO swamps around here...just wetlands.

Crossing the Scuppernong River Bridge, this is the view of the local Marina and the home of Karen and Craig distant center...the White House On The Corner.

Not far from downtown Columbia, North Carolina, are the Vineyards on the Scuppernong.  Have not actually walked to the vineyard's, so no photograph to share.  The grapes are vined locally, offered for sale at the Winery.

Please say HELLO to SHARI and JOHN, proprietors of the Coffee Shop located inside the Winery.  We chatted for well over an hour...about walking and a wide range of other fascinating subjects.  Seems we are of a mind (we think alike) and will try to keep in touch.

Please say HELLO to GAYLE, Proprietor of the Winery. 

Gayle and I have shared some quality chats, including Wine Tasting of her excellent wines for the past 2 years that I have been visiting Columbia.

Sitting on the street side veranda under umbrellas, chatting with Shari and John, Gayle popped out..."wondering when you were going to stop in to say hello...". 

Gayle's Scuppernong Winery.

POST 1086; MARCH 27, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

Early this afternoon, made the tentative decision that SAM & ME would be on the road tomorrow morning. 

Spent much of the afternoon looking over Karen's shoulder as she worked her way through PayPal Donation program...finally achieving full integration of all details and links from PayPal - Google Blog - my bank.  The first donation transaction is currently in process...to take a day or two to complete the bank transfer phase.

Because of the many hours invested by Karen, we have decided it would be appropriate that SAM & ME remain in Columbia at least until we know the entire system works.

Also reached sister Carol in De Kalb, Illinois, who admonished me by shouting over the phone...ARE YOU CRAZY...the snow is still deep on the ground up here...and you are still fighting a drippy snoz....I want to see you, but ALIVE...not DEAD.  Stay until your are fully healed.

Replied...yes, Carol...you know I'm crazy...but not particularly stupid...

So, SAM & ME have  (with much pleasure) postponed our departure for a few more days. 

The Donation Button is located at the top of each blog update page.

SAM & ME have walked our walk using only Social Security $$ together with the generosity of dozens of new friends offering themselves and their homes to make our journey more pleasant.  We have received numerous requests for a Donation Button on our blog...and now it is available...

...thank you all ever so much for your kindness and support.

SAM & ME will be making more short forays from Columbia into the local "wetlands".  We have been emphatically advised that there are NO SWAMPS in this area...there are, however, many WETLANDS.

 * * * * * * * * * *

Update on Division II College Basketball:

Both Men's and Women's Western Washington University (Bellingham, Washington), are only two games away from the national championship.

WWU Men's Basketball won it all in 2012.

POST 1085; MARCH 26, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

Yes, I know we have been absent for nearly a week.  Truth be known, retreated under the feathers fending off a torrential outpouring of SINUS activity... fearing it might be contagious (a serious matter for Karen, who has some effort to maintain white blood cell count up...i.e., immune system health). 

Reaching Columbia 1.5 weeks ago, the coughing began.  It maxed out 48 hours ago, during which time, got nearly no sleep from fear of drowning in the sinus flow into my lungs...not nice!

Checked into the County Health Clinic where we have been assured it was not the flu or a cold or some other undesirable infectious process...pure and simple sinus gone crazy. 

One benefit...damaged heel healed nicely in the interim.

Even so, Karen threatens to hide SAM if I try to leave before the onslaught of congestion stops...so, looks to be another few days before SAM & ME head west.

Sunset over the SCAPPERNONG River...from my bedroom window.

SAM & ME did get out a couple times when Karen wasn't looking.

Downtown Columbia, North Carolina.

Walking South out of town, the roadway passes through near non -stop swamp.

These swamp waters are not more than a foot or two above sea-level.  Much of the swamp water moves very little, collecting thick growth of green scum...live plants, some growing into leafy floating colonies.

Some homes have been built nearly on top of the plant-laden swamp waters.

When not sacked out, have done and redone SAM.  Our 6 - 8 mile walks have discovered weak points in our recent modifications...which have been further redesigned to assure SAM survives the coming 3,100 mile stroll and roll.  Also, loading of SAM's provisions is critical in SAM "roadability".  Since she must be pushed 100% of the time, cg - center of gravity - is important for steering.  Have also further gleaned out items of low priority to make a bit of room for some food items.

C.L., our local Barber - I always have C.L. cut my hair when I pass through -, gifted a sturdy light weight chair.  Standing - even when stopping to rest...and after setting up our tent...is VERY uncomfortable.  Thank you, again, C.L.

Frank, C.L.'s next door neighbor, who owns and operates the local marina, has gifted us a seat cushion... had to leave ours in Bellingham.  Use the seat cushion when crawling around the ground making adjustments to SAM or when moving around the tent...saves the knees!...thank you, again, Frank.

I owe special thanks to Ann and the staff of the County Medical Center for taking in this old man for a bronchial checkup.  If I do find a job, would hope it is with a staff like you'all. 

Of course, just being in the home of Karen, Craig, Noah, and Carson is a special treat in itself.  Karen is the Chef; but, Craig has the culinary touch, too...plus, is master of so very much more. 

Walking away from the white house on the corner ... perhaps for the last time...is going to be difficult...

Now, to listen to my pillows (4 of them) in my delightful four poster bed...hoping for a coughless night of restful dreams.

POST 1084; MARCH 19, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

A pleasant weather day in Columbia, North Carolina today...low lying fog with misting liquid sunshine early on, changing to clear skies with zephyr winds allowing warm afternoon.  Had the pleasure of joining Karen cleaning out her flower garden...nice to have dirt under fingernails again.

SAM is essentially complete.  Fashioned a tubular rigid rectangular frame held together with wrist-band type VELCRO.  Stretched over the frame is original oil cloth refitted to suit the new frame.  The oil cloth cover / side panels, are installed with more of the same VELCRO, allowing quick-disconnect to fold back the rain cover for internal access.

The two white boxes are plastic sized to hold a one-gallon water bottle; i.e., when crossing open range land and deserts, can carry two gallons plus a half dozen 20 oz water bottles (smaller 20 oz bottles are stored on internal shelf-supported plastic dish-pan type containers.

SAM opened up for internal access.  The silver tubes hold the quick-release VELCRO firmly holding the rain proof cover in place.

This photograph shows SAM already carrying the tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, and two of six small waterproof carry bags.  The small bags are designated for like items, such as:  medicines/cosmetics; socks & underwear; electrical items; spare shirt and pants.  Computer has it's own insulated carry-on type bag which fits snugly against the side of the carry chamber.

Was able to re-mount SAM and ME plastic sign.

The small wheels are mounted in "U" frames with Pintal shafts.  Lift them out of the mounting plate...reinsert them into the bottom of the plate...provides back-up pivoting front wheels.

Original design structure carries the entire load suspended on thick plastic mold plates.  I have added thick walled extruded aluminum square tubing...one on each side, mounted directly onto the rear axle...reaching in one piece to the front axle; i.e., SAM's load is carried directly on the axles.  Cross tubing members add support in the center of the floor.

SAM is provided with excellent suspension which takes additional shock loading.  In the early days of walking, the main axle broke while walking...due to excessive weight.  Discovered the factory used an extruded alu. axle with drilled brake mounting holes dead center...the location of the axle failure.

Contacted the Canadian factory, discovering they have a heavy-duty axle without the drilled holes.  Purchased two new axles (one spare).  SAM has performed beautifully on the first heavy duty axle...but still carry the spare along just in case.

The front wheel has a bicycle-type calliper brake.  Each rear wheel is provided with bell-crank type activation of honest-to-goodness shoe brakes.  I have added a positive stop (another of my VELCRO bands) to hold the shoe brake lever (one lever activates both brakes simultaneously) tightly closed...a definite secure parking brake.

SAM from the rear.  I have added the two shelves and the second (one on top) pushing handle (also serves as rain cover mounting frame installed yesterday).

These shelves provide space for plastic pans (tied down with wire ties) to carry miscellaneous items...snacks, water bottles, flashlight, maps, spare gloves, utensils, etc.  The "bag" at the bottom contains eight (8) Butane Bottles for my Butane stove, which is carried in the forward chamber.

SAM's recent makeover has eliminated ALL electrical items...but has also given up considerable storage space.   Have therefore, eliminated at least 40% of original provisions...mostly clothing and electronics...

SAM is now a lean mean green machine.  Must be pushed 100% of the time...except on down grades, where she requires some considerable restraint to keep her from gaining too much speed.  Reduction of over 150 pounds of "stuff" should help me hold her back descending the many 8% 5-mile long hills crossing the Allegheny - West Virginia - mountains.

We shall soon see.

Karen has set up the procedures for SAM's new "Donation" Button.  Hope to have it installed in the next day or two.

POST 1083; MARCH 18, 2013; COLUMBIA, NORTH CAROLINA

* * * * * * * * * *

So nice to be sleeping in my big four-poster familiar bed again...dining on super home cooked food - Karen is a master chef -, and spending time with old friends.

Decided to take this morning off...did just absolutely nothing...but enjoy the boys going off to school...the light drizzle dimpling the serene waters of the Scappernong River...just a short stone throw from my upstairs window...and snuggling back into the feathers for 2.5 hours after a grilled ham sandwich lunch.

Craig spent hours cleaning out his backyard store room...Karen grabbed a shovel and attacked some weeds in her flower beds...both making me feel guilty.

So, I bit the bullet and attacked SAM.

Removed SAM's Solar Panels, Controllers, Switches, House Battery, and ripped out all the wiring I so lovingly installed so many years ago...yes, it has been nearly four years since I designed and built SAM's self propulsion system.

Stripped of all her finery, SAM looked naked and forelorne. 

Using existing extending twist poles, Velcro bracelets, and existing Solar Panel adjustable supports, built a new rectangular frame for SAM.  Over this frame, I fashioned a rain cover using SAM's original oilcloth coverings[

.The rectangular frame incorporates a "second" handle bar...raised about 6 inches above the factory designed handle, giving SAM access into our tent at night and a second push / controlling handle for more convenient pushing geometry...i.e., do not have to bend when pushing as in SAM's original design...allowing me to stand straight when pushing and walking.

Loaded up 3/4 of SAM's provisions to verify form and fit, took SAM for a quick tour around the town of Columbia. 

She is now light as a feather, has room for all necessities, and is impervious to all but the strongest downpour and gale-force winds. 

Built two bakealite shelves into SAM's hind quarters for storing her stove and food items. 

Push comes to shove, SAM could be loaded ready for the road within an hour.

Craig says I have not yet worn out my welcome, so have no definite schedule to once again follow the Sun into the far West.

My digestive system seems to have quieted some during the past 24 hours, relieving some nauseous feeling I endured the past couple months...sure hope it remains so.

Is now evening...and dark outside.  In the morning, will clean up the awful mess I created on the front porch - SAM's work area.  Then I can pitch in to help Craig and Karen do some yard Spring cleaning.

Tomorrow hope to post images of our "new" SAM.

Will also pursue adding a "Donations" Button.  Must admit to a a bit less stamina and energy than when SAM and ME started out three years ago.  A little pampering would be most welcome.