We arrived in Quartzsite on Sunday, the 13th, after a windy drive across the desert. There were parts of the trip that really challenged my driving ability with the heavy crosswind and dusty conditions. We got set up with our coach and Clarksons positioned next to each other and our awnings creating a great dining area. In lieu of a daily update, I’m including some of the messages that were sent out on the Monaco email list that most of us attendees monitor.
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Here's a link to a few “Quartzsite Day 1" pictures.<http://tinyurl.com/39sshe>

“You can't even imagine what y'all are missing! In spite of all the talk and the wild stories, don't believe a word that George or Bill tell you!!!!“Yep, we're having a great time together. Today was a day of major accomplishments - we managed to hold several folding chairs down and keep them from rising into the Desert Sun. It was a tough job, but we gave it our best effort.“There are now 5 coaches gathered around the campfire and more are expected on Wednesday. John Fraser, where are you? We all kept our ears close to the radios in anticipation of your arrival, but..."no joy"! We are also expecting nearly five coaches to arrive on Thursday. We have plenty of real estate to protect and preserve - the natives all want to encroach on our valuable land - but we're holding out for all the space we can claim. We're looking forward to seeing the majority of the West Coast Gang pull in and add to the merriment we've enjoyed up to now. Remember, if you aren't here to defend yourself, we'll get some pleasure talking about ya! Fred, Bill, Don, Ron, Elmer, et al...and spouses...

<http://picasaweb.google.com/GeorgeandGeri/Quartzsite2008Day3>

Today was a quiet day, with new arrivals but clouds, wind, and cooler temperatures.

<http://picasaweb.google.com/GeorgeandGeri/QuartzsiteDay4>

“It's been a fantastic four days with many surprises, laughs, and the meeting of new friends. We now have 12 coaches surrounding the campfire. The list of arrivals continues to grow, and so far we have Anderson, Clarkson, Cederholm, Crawford, Fraser, Greer, Morrisey, Bahnson, Rea, Eyster (with friends) and a Country Coach with Harsh (from Hart Ranch). We're expecting the arrival of Ostrander and Wigton on Friday.“There have been some interesting discussions around the fire, a greatThursday evening potluck, and some fantastic photo ops. Of course, the truth-stretching (lies) is rampant so we are looking forward to some "spin doctors" to keep everything in its proper perspective. And I really need to get Clerc here to help me defend my virtue and reputation!!

“The RV Show doesn't open until Saturday, but we've already started to scout out the shopping areas. Bill Crawford managed to visit the infamous bookstore. He actually observed the owner walking around the store wearing a sweater, a cowboy hat, boots and a thong. Bill claims tried heto avoid an obvious look, but he was able to describe, in detail I might add, the texture of the guy's buttocks skin! Nice try, Bill!

“Somebody erected a "Sobriety Checkpoint Ahead" sign at the entrance to our parking area, but there has been NO enforcement of the warning - so far! Fred, Charlie Eyster's friend and close relative of Fire Marshal Bill, started the campfire this evening with the world's handiest hot dogroaster you've ever imagined! That sucker had our fire going in less than 30 seconds - and sounded like a hot air balloon! We were afraid that the neighbors might call out the Fire Department when he lit that hummer off!!“Our weather has been "Southwestern Mild". That means a slight desert breeze with temperatures in the "shorts" range. Anderson and Greer, and soon Clerc, are loving the comfortable climate. Nighttime brings lows in the ____ties, but it makes for great sleeping weather.

“Enough for now - just remember, if you aren't here, you're fair game for the conversations! Wish you could all join us! It's beginning to look like a Beaudry's parking lot with all the beautiful coaches. Check out Gorgeous George's (Cederholm) photos for the accurate images of forcedrelaxation and great times!!

“Crash'n'Burn Lew - on a high-speed low approach to the information highway

<http://picasaweb.google.com/GeorgeandGeri/QuartzsiteDay5>

Here are a few more photos from the big Quartzsite shindig.

http://picasaweb.google.com/GeorgeandGeri/QuartzsiteDay67

“We've got most of the "mug shots" ready to be posted tomorrow once the last couple is located (there was a lot of shopping done today on "Day 1" under the big tent). We'll be able to put names with faces for everyone who's here...George C.

Here are some pictures of the group (well, most of the group - see album description) gathered to-date in Quartzsite.

<http://picasaweb.google.com/GeorgeandGeri/QuartzsiteCrowdJanuary2008>

“Of course, it's deserted (pun intended) here in the desert now, with half the group huddled in front of TVs watching football and half trolling for bargains in the markets. George C. Heading back to Peoria, AZ tomorrow :-(


We have had a fantastic time here in Quartzsite with all the new faces we’ve met and the wonderful times with all the varied characters. Today, Saturday the 26th, we took a drive up beyond Parker to Nellie’s Bar, or the Desert Bar. It’s a place that is impossible to describe without actually experiencing it. It was an old mine that has been renovated into a bar, is only open on weekends, serves sandwiches and beer, and has live entertainment from 1PM to 5PM. It was quite the place and a real trip!

Tomorrow we leave after two weeks of dry-camping and head for Casa Grande for two nights.