Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri are at Lake Bistineau State Park through Nov 17th.Some family will be stopping by, to participate in disc golf, hiking & other fun. We’ll find time to enjoy delicious burgers on the lake at Our Place Bar & Grill.Some of our upcoming journeys below, along withvideos/photos/links tracking our adventures. Also, visit us at TomsMaHauL onFacebook & YouTube.
November 15 -17: Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri have been to Lake Bistineau State Park many times, since we were dating in high school in the 70s. We, always, enjoy our time in this area.
November: Lake Bistineau (LA) & Gladewater (TX), along w/ Thanksgiving holiday family time. December 5 – 8: Return to Jefferson, to recall our times when Mama Joie (Teri’s Mom) enjoyed spending her birthdays in Jefferson during this time for many years. We’ll unveil other plans for December, but we’re, still, discussing our New Year’s Eve plans.
October 11 – 13: Pine Island RV Park/Caddo Lake & Benefit Costume Contest at Made In The Shade
Great crowd & participation at Made in the Shade!!! We were part of the costume contest fundraiser for Shriners Childrens Hospital, so Teri couldn’t compete, but Teri enjoyed dressing the part to support the effort.Teri captures a photo of Made In The Shade’s Shaggy w/ Tom, taking a break from their deep discussions to solve all of the world’s problems.
We enjoyed our time at Pine Island RV Park near Caddo Lake. The park was full, but Pine Island RV Park owners, J.R. & Wanda, always seem to have a spot for us, and they put is in an RV spot w/ a great view of the boats on the Big Cypress Bayou & the many East Texas Burn Run benefit motorcycles that passed by. We dined at Hookers Pub & Grub, as well as The Lighthouse in the Caddo Lake area. Great service at both places. Perfect weather all weekend!
September 30 – October 2: New Orleans Convention
Teri’s Video #1: Sharing one of our We Are Here report videos while we hung out for part of the evening along the New Orleans bank of the Mississippi River. Tom checks for crow poop on his favorite Stetson flat cap.
Teri’s video #2: Trippin’ w/ Tom Teri watch the ship on the Mississippi River approaching and we sing our stunning & persuasive rendition of “Proud Mary” (Ike & Tina Turner style)
Teri’s video #3: Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri watching the ship on the Mississippi River, that Tom calls “The Big Boss Man”, squeezing under the bridge. Tom quotes (blues legend) John Lee Hooker in the video when Tom says “I’m the Big Boss Man. I do the payin’ off” & Jed Clampett (Beverly Hillbillies) “Woo Doggies!”We had a break between business gatherings, & took a stroll on the RiverWalk in NOLA (New Orleans). Tom captures a photo from when we stopped along our walk.Teri shares a photo of Tom overlooking the Creole Queen paddle-wheel riverboat on the Mississippi River. Earlier in the evening we strolled around New Orleans, and followed the BPCC bowling team as they went to compete at the downtown Fulton Alley (bowling alley w/ several La. colleges competing). Then, after dinner, we spent some of the evening on the RiverWalk watching the ship traffic.
September 18 – 22: Tom Michaels Appreciation Event Weekend
___Photo w/ all of the band members from SnakeBone, TEAZUR, Rewind TXK & White Trash Wannabees joining Tom & Teri in pre-show group photo at the legendary Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club Restaurant & Bar in Jefferson. Tom was very humbled by these bands putting together a special event to celebrate Tom’s 45 year broadcasting career – always supporting the regional musicians & local businesses.Photo of White Trash Wannabees rockin’ the stage as Tom & Teri danced. AWESOME night at Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club Restaurant & Bar. After a special dance, Teri hugged Tom & said “You did it!”. Tom replied “WE did it!”Kimmy Garcia (WTW drummer) presented Tom w/ one of his drum cymbals – autographed by the members of the 4 bands. Very nice! Greatly appreciated. This will be displayed & cherished!Photo of Tom w/ the security detail. On the left in this photo is Michelle Fox. We appreciate Michelle for providing the legendary Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club Restaurant & Bar for this event. Very special to Tom, Teri & our family!The TEAZUR band surprised Tom & the big crowd, when they walked on stage & performed w/ their “TOM” shirts! Thanks TEAZUR! Lead singer, Tobie Turner, later presented Tom w/ a “TOM” shirt, autographed by members of the bands. Thank you.Photo of SnakeBone rockin’ the huge crowd on the iconic Auntie Skinners stage. Thanks to SnakeBone lead singer, Brian Smith, who we hear colluded w/ Randy Frierson (bass player for Rewind TXK), to do their part to assemble 4 AWESOME bands together to play on the same night, at the same venue, w/ free admission for Tom Michaels fans.SnakeBone presented Tom w/ the bobble-tail Kick Ass Award! We thought about putting it on the dash of our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome, and we’d see it kicking ass while we drive over the bumpy I-20 around the Fairgrounds.Photo of Rewind TXK rockin’ after midnight at Auntie Skinners Riverboat Club & Restaurant during the Tom Michaels Appreciation Night. Thank you White Trash Wannabees, SnakeBone , TEAZUR & Rewind TXKPhoto of our sons, Justin & Tim w/ Tom. Thanks to our sons, along w/ Regan & Missy. After their work day Friday, they drove from NW Louisiana & made it on time, to be a special part of a memorable night for our family. When our sons were teens & young adults, they worked in the radio business w/ Tom, before going on to their own careers. Photo of Tom w/ his sister, Mary. Mary left work in Dallas, and made it to Auntie Skinners before the first band played. Years ago, for a short time, Mary was part of a music research project with Tom in the radio business.
September 14: 20th Annual Highland Jazz & Blues Festival in Shreveport
Our son, Justin, shares a few photos of Mom & Dad (aka Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri) at the Highland Jazz & Blues Festival in Shreveport. The bands & other performers provided great entertainment for the large crowd, along w/ a variety of products at many vendors & we enjoyed some great grub from the food trucks. Thanks to Justin for keeping us updated on the LSU football victorywhile we enjoyed the bands.
Tom & Teri had a great time at the Highland Jazz & Blues Festival!The weather was good, & we got there early enough to set up our chairs in the perfect shady spot.
September 6 – 8: Made In The Shade 8th Anniversary Bash in Jefferson
We had a BLAST at the Made in the Shade 8th Anniversary Bash Saturday with a party in the courtyard w/ WTW on stage.Peggy captures a photo of Trippin with Tom & Teri w/ White Trash Wannabees guitarist/vocalist, Donnie Dodson (& few band members behind), during a band break.Tom & Donnie provided commentary that had us all laughing for the photo. Teri captures a photo of White Trash Wannabees rockin ‘ the Made in the Shade 8th Anniversary Bash. Perfect weather & big crowd of folks that know how to have A LOT of fun!Tom, quickly, started behaving himself, when he saw that the photographer was roaming around the Made in the Shade 8th Anniversary Bash. Thanks, Peggy, for the photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri dancing to the stunning & persuasive sounds of White Trash Wannabees on the Made In The Shade patio stageTeri & Tom enjoying a dinner at KnightLight Theatre & Tavern. Check out Teri’s hat that she bought earlier at Made In The Shade.Tom bought a perfect Led Zeppelin IV (Zoso) shirt at Caddo Mercantile Antiques , where Teri captured a photo of Tom hanging out with the ghost of Jim Morrison.Couldn’t help but stop in at places to buy some great items around Jefferson. Tom captures a photo of Teri at Enoch’s Wine Cellar & Coffee shop. After sampling a flight of wines, while Tom enjoyed a cup of Enoch’s coffee, Teri chose a bottle of Enoch’s Stomp Jefferson Gold that was enjoyed at the Made In The Shade Anniversary Bash. Thanks to Ray at Calavera Leather Co. for selecting Teri’s cigar. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoying a Friday evening dinner in the bar area at The Haywood House in Jefferson.
August 28 – September 2: Family Birthdays Celebration Gathering in Destin
Passing Navarre Beach near Destin, FloridaTeri found Tom by Dad’s pool early in the morning, inspecting the yard work that Tom & his brother did the day before. Teri said “What are you up to this morning?” Tom’s reply “I guess that I’m retired, so I’m trying to get used to it”.Teri listens to Tom’s music selection, while dipping her feet in the pool early one morning.Some of the TomsMaHauL crew enjoy after lunch pool time at Dad’s place in Destin. L-R: Regan, Justin, Missy, TimSaturday evening, some of our family gathered to celebrate 4 birthdays (between 15 & 89) at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Destin.
August 15 – 18: Lake Hawkins & TEAZUR Band Performance
We’ve been in RV spots all around Lake Hawkins RV Park over the years, but this is the first time in this spot. This spot is so long, Teri declared it “TomsMaHauL Blvd” while we were here. This spot (#5) would be perfect if you have family visiting your site, or if you brought a boat. Great view of the lake. Photo of Tom & Teri enjoying a Thursday evening dining experience at The Hangout at Lake Hawkins Restaurant & Pub across the county road from Lake Hawkins RV Park.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a great meal at Taste of Italy By The Lake on Friday evening. Every time that we’ve been in the Lake Hawkins area over the years, we’ve, always, made time for some, tasty, Italian food.Photo of Teri & Tom stopping to look out at the lake & beach area, w/ theTomsMaHauL motorhome in the background.We had a GREAT time Saturday night w/ TEAZUR rockin’ the stage for a packed crowd at The Hangout at Lake Hawkins Restaurant & Pub! Always a fun show w/ this band, everywhere that they perform!
August 2 – 4: Texarkana – Forest Lake RV Park
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri & theTomsMaHauL motorhome enjoyed time at Forest Lake RV Park. We enjoyed some local shopping, restaurants & local bands (SnakeBone & Lee Mathis & the Brutally Handsome). Early one morning, Teri hiked around the pond a few times, while Tom did some motorhome modifications that Tom had been planning to knock out. Around the lunch hour, we enjoyed some time in the Forest Lake Rv Park And Events pool. Before Tom entered the pool, he captured a photo of Teri testing the waters. The water temperature was perfect (nice n’ cool, but not too cold).Teri captures a photo of Tom (all smiles) when his ribeye, twice stuffed potatoes & green beans were placed in front of him at The Duke Bar & Grill in Texarkana. We enjoyed a great meal w/ very friendly service. Lee Mathis & the Brutally Handsome were great on stage. We, thoroughly, enjoyed conversations w/ the Friersons of Rewind TXK! Congrats to the Friersons on 43 years.We enjoyed a great dinner at Naaman’s Championship BBQ in Texarkana, & a rockin’ Saturday night with SnakeBone at The Arrow.
It was a smooth ride from Bossier City to the south side of Marshall. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo: Enjoying the cool air conditioning of the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at Piney Woods Village RV Park. 5 miles from here is Twisted Pines Winery, where we’ll enjoy food, beverages & live music on Saturday evening. Between now & then, we’ll roam around this area &…try to stay outta trouble.There’s a car show in downtown Marshall every second Saturday. We strolled into Rüeggenbach Brewing Co. that is located in the downtown square around the beautiful courthouse/county seat. Enjoying hummus & pretzel bites, local brew with Jim Taylor performing live. Very nice place. We haven’t been thrown out. Yet.Before Tom was escorted out, he made a quick purchase, buying Teri a 6 pack of “Abraham Drinkin’ from Rüeggenbach Brewing Co in downtown Marshall. Who escorted Tom out? Answer: Teri.Cool can design of “Abraham Drinkin” at Rüeggenbach Brewing Co in downtown Marshall. A 3 story brewery. There’s even seating on the roof. This place is what we call “a do-over”. Meaning, we shall return. Very nice bar tenders. Great staff, all around. We enjoyed the food & live music. All ages welcome. Dog friendly. They also serve the local Twisted Pines Winery products. Looking forward to our time at Twisted Pines for a Saturday night performance.We had a great time at Twisted Pines Winery! Tyler & the Davis family did an excellent job organizing, and hosting, this SOLD OUT event. The weather was perfect!The band that opened the show at Twisted Pines Winery included Logan Hall (steel guitar), Nick Brumley (guitar/vocals) & Presley Haile (guitar/vocals).The Adam Hood band was amazing! Top quality sound mix, and the band related to the crowd very well. Adam is a great songwriter/performer. Below are more evening photos of Adam’s performance at Twisted Pines Winery––
June 20 – 23: Driskill Mountain & Creekwood Gardens
We arrived at Creekwood Gardens by suppertime on Thursday. After unhooking the Jeep & setting up the motorhome, we strolled through the garden area before sunset. The garden property is NICE! MANY weddings & other events have been held here, & we know why. Because, it’s a beautiful place.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri @ the beautiful Creekwood Gardens (LA). If you come here in an RV, talk to Gary, because he’ll have the details & he will guide you in to your spot. Amazing work by the family here over the years, to create this (huge) beautiful place.Teri captures a photo of Tom, while Tom read the roadside marker at the trailhead to Driskill Mountain (Louisiana’s highest point). Tom appreciates Historical roadside markers, and stops to read many of them along our journeys.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri completed our hike to Louisiana’s highest point – Driskill Mountain.Tom took of Teri under a big toppled tree along the trail. We avoided the “False Mountain” trail (for skilled hikers), and we stuck to the Driskill Mountain trail (easier path). Warm temperatures during the hike, but we had plenty of water & just took our time.This pile of rocks adds a few more feet to the 535ft elevation of Driskill Mountain (Louisiana’s highest elevation). Teri had Tom pose for this photo.We enjoyed a great conversation w/ the owner of Cotton Top Print Shop in Ruston, where we found a great selection of several Driskill Mountain shirts, caps & stickers. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri bought the shirts in the photo, and we did a sticker exchange. When you stop in, get the owner of Cotton Top Print Shop to tell you the great story about her display of the band The Doors.
Teri’s video report w/ special guest, Tom, at the trailhead of Driskill Mountain, Louisiana…
June 5 – 8: Destin, Florida
Teri was presented w/ this dessert dish while we enjoyed a family dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Destin. We haven’t been to a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in decades, & it was great to enjoy time at the restaurant again.It seems that we’ve sort-of extended our Tom & Teri 45th anniversary celebrations this year. While in Destin visiting family, we were treated to a nice dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. This was one of the desserts presented. Nice!
Below,Tom shares a few photos of the A-10 (always been Tom’s favorite). We used to see plenty of A-10s in the sky over Bossier City @ Barksdale Air Force Base, but it’s rare to see an A-10 at Barksdale these days. While visiting family in Destin, we stopped in at the Air Force Armament Museum @ Eglin Air Force Base. It was cool to see the MOAB (Mother of All Bombs) & so many planes & other armament on display.
June 3 – 5: Pensacola, Florida
Though it’s a work related journey, we’re finding time to explore the area & enjoy the beach.Teri attended a gathering at the Hilton Hotel Conference Center. When not attending the conference, we explored some of the surrounding area & made time to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant along Pensacola Beach. Teri captures the late evening view of the skyline in Pensacola.Teri’s photo of a beautiful sunset on the Gulf, along the main highway at Pensacola Beach.
Teri shares a few photos (below) along our trolley ride Tuesday evening, after attending a conference during the day. Pensacola gets PACKED w/ tourists this time of year! Even early in the week, this area’s population grows by A LOT! There was even a Tuesday concert on the beach, that had thousands of people in attendance. Traffic can be crazy, but we were on the trolley & just enjoyed the entire 2 hour ride while observing the area.
We’ve enjoyed our work trip in Pensacola & meeting some very nice folks at the many places that we visited.
May 23 – 27: Memorial Weekend in East Texas
While in East Texas, we stop in at a few wineries – Twisted Pines Winery (southside of Marshall) & Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery (Harleton). We, always, enjoy our times at Bear Creek Smokehouse/Gift Shop/Event Center in Harrison County. When the TomsMaHauL motorhome is stationed in Jefferson, we enjoy the town, as well as roaming around other areas within a short drive in the toad (our Jeep that we pull behind the motorhome).
After arriving in Jefferson, we unhooked the Jeep & set up the motorhome, followed by strolling over to McGarity’s Saloon in Jefferson, for supper & singing along w some songs performed by Jennifer McMullen. Friendly crowd. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a short drive in the toad (Tom’s Jeep) to Bear Creek Smokehouse/General Store/Event Center on the NW side of Marshall (TX). The meal was EXCELLENT, and the friendliest workers all around. We love the business entry sign.Tom hanging out & talking to the longhorn at Bear Creek Smokehouse/General Store/Event Center. Tom will talk to any creature that will listen.While Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were roaming around East Texas during the Memorial holiday weekend, we drove just south Marshall and enjoyed the new Twisted Pines Winery. Twisted Pines Wineryis a wonderful family owned business! We enjoyed excellent service, interesting conversations, grazing board & pizza. Teri enjoyed the wine & purchased a bottle, plus a Twisted Pines tshirt for Tom. Very enjoyable time! This place is on our “do-over” list (meaning that we shall return).Tom & Clint mean business! Behave yourself! Teri captures a photo of Tom w/ Clint Eastwood @ Calavera Leather Co. in Jefferson. Great products! Tom never misses an opportunity to pose w/ cardboard standups.Before returning to homebase (the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome in Jefferson), we stopped in at Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery in Harleton. Teri bought some bottles of wine, & we enjoyed the time strolling around the property. Thanks to the friendly staff at Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery for the photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri. Very enjoyable time!!! Corks Fine Dining at Enoch’s Stomp offers a beautiful view of the vineyards and hillside.We stopped in at Caddo Mercantile Antiques & browsed the thousands of records along w/ turntables, 8 track players & more, and Teri bought two t shirts of her favorite rock band (AC/DC). We stopped next door at the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas where Teri had an ice cream cone & Tom enjoyed a milk shake & REAL Frito pie (chili poured into a bag of Fritos).
Mid May: Hangin’ Out in SoBo (South Bossier)
We enjoyed cruises in our ’69 Chevelle, including a stop at the Red River National Wildlife Refuge along the Bossier City Teague Parkway. Teri captures another photo of our ’69 Chevelle Malibu on a beautiful day.Photo from an after-work Friday evening dinner at The Seventh Tap Brewing Project in the Bossier City East Bank District. The smashburgers & chili n’ cheese fries were delicious. Teri enjoyed one of the 98Rocks 40th Anniversary brews (“Whole Lotta Lager”).
May 1 – May 5: Beavers Bend/Broken Bow (OK)
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri and the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome has enjoyed 2, beautiful, sunny days along the Mountain Fork River at Beavers Bend/Broken Bow Lake. Our family from Shreveport-Bossier join us through Sunday.The sirens have sounded, to notify of rising water in the river, from the opening of the Broken Bow Lake dam gates. No worries. It seems to be a daily thing. Here’s our morning sippin’ coffee view, as the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome is right on the Mountain Fork River.We’ve viewed otter, beaver, eagles, geese & more critters along the banks near us. We’re off the grid (so to speak). No cell service in the State Park at Beavers Bend, so a few times a day we drive nearby to check emails & messages. It’s, always, great to return to Hochatown and enjoy dinner at the Grateful Head Pizza Oven & TapRoom. Teri captures a photo of Tom as we enjoyed some delicious Grateful Head pizza.
April 29 – May 1: Ardmore (OK) – Red River Rose RV Resort
After leaving the Quartz Mtns, we intended to stay in Sulphur (OK). A devastating tornado hit the town over the weekend, and there were some area highway closures. So, we found Red River Rose RV Resort in Ardmore, where we were welcomed by a nice young lady at the check-in office. Teri picked spot #45, because it would be easy to remember (45th Anniversary).While Teri was on her laptop doing some remote work, Teri captured a photo of Tom cleaning the bugs off of the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome windshield. Between Lake Altus & Ardmore, we ended up w/ A LOT of HUGE bug splatters. Bubba BadToTheBone (our old cat & interior pest controller) chilled out, while watching Tom (exterior pest controller).During our stay in Ardmore, we enjoyed a dinner @ TWO FROGS GRILL. LOTS of autographed guitars & other memorabilia from music stars that have performed here over the years. Excellent food & friendly service. –After we got settled in our RV spot, we went to the, nearby, 2 Frogs venue. EXCELLENT food, service & prices! Lots of memorabilia from music stars that have performed here.
April 25 – 29: Quartz Mountains & Lake Altus, Oklahoma
Behind the wheel, Tom was focused on making the sharp turns, while Teri captured a photo of our view while cruising in the Jeep through some the Quartz Mountains at Lake Altus.
A week after we were married 45 years ago, we journeyed from Louisiana to Oklahoma, & climbed a mountain & enjoyed a dinner at the Quartz Mountain Lodge. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri returned 45 years later, to enjoy a dinner there again. Sharing a few photos here….
––Teri captured a photo of the daily morning view from our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome homebase location near Lake Altus, Oklahoma. Thanks cousin Diane for the perfect RV spot.–45 years ago, we climbed one of the Quartz Mountains. This time, we were a little slower, & better prepared, but we managed to climb a mountain 45 years later. Teri captured a photo during our climb. Tom blends in, but maybe you can spot him?––When we made it to the Quartz Mountains in Oklahoma. Teri & Tom’s cousin, Diane, encouraged Tom to park under this cover. Tom was nervous, because there was only ONE INCH clearing from the highest point of the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. We made it work, and good that we did, due to storms (that produced hail in areas).Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri, Diane & Hank (the dog), before we departed the Quartz Mtn area. Thank you, cousin Diane, for the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome stay at your place! Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri and the TomsMaHauL motorhome were safe during one evening of very strong Oklahoma storms.
April 23 – 25: Lake Texoma
We enjoyed our stay at Lake Texoma RV Resort (Pottsboro, Texas). Very nice RV park. We explored the lake area & learned a lot.
We cruised around many areas of Lake Texoma, including a drive to Denison (TX), where President Eisenhower was born. Lake Texoma was made from the Red River. One side of this LONG dam is full of water for Lake Texoma, and the other side is far below with forest land & the restart of the Red River. As soon as we got on the dam from Texas, we were in Oklahoma.
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April 21 -23: Lake Hawkins RV Park
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo from our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at Lake Hawkins RV Park. Great view of the lake. We’ve been visiting this park for several years. All of their rv spots are great, but we’re glad that we booked early and got our favorite rv spot.Tom captured a photo of Teri managing the evening fire. After Tom savored some of his favorite lasagna & Teri enjoyed manicotti @ Taste of Italy By The Lake, we made the short scenic drive back to Lake Hawkins RV Park, where we enjoyed the fire & some music on a cool night. Overnight low was 41. During our visits to this park, we, always, enjoy some strolls around the park, the beach & boat launch area.
Photos, links & more, from prevous journeys to Lake Hawkins on this TomsMaHauL website journal page HERE
April 19 – 21: Avinger/Jefferson
While Avinger Station RV Park was homebase for the TomsMaHauL motorhome,Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed Thursday night dinner, and the great song selections & banter of Jennifer McMullen at McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon – Jefferson, TX. There’s not a dance area in McGarity’s, but we made a space because Teri wanted Tom to dance to a song that we once danced to when we dated in high school.Looking out of the motorhome door, as the Saturday morning storms blow through Avinger.We enjoyed returning to Avinger Station RV Park. A nice, clean, park that is centrally located to many great communities & Lake O’ The Pines.
Photos, videos & more from other TomsMaHauL Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri visits to this area HERE
April 14: Tom & Teri 45th Anniversary Day
On April 14th, 45 years ago, we were married @ the Barksdale Air Force Base Chapel.We’ve been busy working ahead at our jobs, so we can take a motorhome journey to celebrate 45 years. After work hours, Teri has been busy preparing some of our meals for the journey, and Tom has been preparing the TomsMaHauL motorhome (pulling one of our Jeeps) for our road trip. But, we weren’t too busy to put on our city duds & take time for a nice Anniversary dinner at The Pearl Shreveport. We enjoyed excellent food & service at The Pearl. Thanks to the friendly owners (couple celebrating 46 years) for a wonderful chef-prepared dessert.
April 8: Total Solar Eclipse @ Los Pinos Ranch Vinyards (Pittsburg, TX)
Thanks, Regan, for the photo. We enjoyed the time at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX. The boxes of meats, cheese, grapes & more, were very good. The bottles of Los Pinos wine were enjoyed, as well as some cigars. We migrated out into the vineyards when the sky got dark for several minutes during the total eclipse. We took our solar glasses off for the viewing of the total eclipse for an AMAZING view! Grateful to be in the perfect spot for that viewing. We met some folks, and made some new friends, which is always good.Sold out crowd at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX. After a great lunch was served, we moved to a spot in the vineyards to prepare for the total solar eclipse.Teri captured a photo of Tom w/ our oldest son, Justin, at the Eclipse & Sip event at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards.Tom captured a photo of Justin, Teri & Regan viewing the beginning stages of the eclipse, near the vines at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX
April 6: Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri @ The Barksdale Air Force Base Car Show
Trippin w/ Tom & Teri at the Barksdale Air Force Base Visitors Center, checking in, before heading to the base Exchange car show.About 50 beautiful vehicles supporting the car show at Barksdale Air Force Base. Tom captures a photo of Teri with her ’69 Chevelle.
April 5: 98Rocks Whole Lotta Lager Party @ The Seventh Tap Brewing Project
Teri captured a photo of Tom on stage with some of the 98 Rocks staff (Al, Bobby Cook & NukeMan) as the Charlotte’s Web Band prepares to perform at the The Seventh Tap. Look for the 98Rocks Whole Lotta Lager (inspired by Led Zeppelin) at some local spirits locations and some restaurants that serve local brews. Great design on the collectors cans. Looking forward to a few more, different, 98Rocks brew flavors coming this year from The Seventh Tap Brewing Project.
Easter Sunday: Family Gathering at Our SoBo Home
Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri w/ our family at our South Bossier (SoBo) home. We enjoyed Easter Sunday. L-R: Missy, Tim (arm in a sling), Justin, Regan, Teri, Tom
March 22 – 24: Grand Ecore, along Bayou Pierre
After morning rain, we experienced a little drizzle, at times, while driving down Hwy 71 to Grand Ecore RV Park. There was a very welcoming office crew, when we checked in. Tom bought some of the firewood at the check-in office, for Teri’s final pit fire of the season, Soon, it’ll be too warm for campfires. Many projects here that are almost completed. New pool, splash pad, huge community fire pit, paved hiking trail & more. While setting up the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome, Tom spotted a bald eagle from our RV spot, looking towards Bayou Pierre.We always go to Bermuda, when we get down to this part of Louisiana, to enjoy a meal at the Cane River Commissary. Very popular place, because the atmosphere, food & service are great. The weather was a bit too cool this evening, so Tom didn’t wear his Bermuda shorts? Or, as a Waskom friend calls ’em “Bermooduh shorts”.Teri captured a photo of Tom “representin'”. Green onion flavor Down Home Meats brand sausage, Calavera Leather Co. t-shirt, The Seventh Tap cap & Lake Bistineau State Park coffee mug. Some clouds for early morning breakfast, before the sunshine & great mid-day hiking weather along the 2.5 mile Grand Ecore RV Park newly paved hiking trail.Tom decided to take a photo of Teri while she prepares our early morning breakfast at Grand Ecore RV Park. The wool lined denim jacket was worn by Teri’s father, when taking the family camping back in the early 70s. The jacket kept Teri warm early in the morning, along w/ Tom’s fresh brewed hot coffee in her TomsMaHauL mug.
VIDEO: Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri stop along the new hiking trail at Grand Ecore RV Park.
February 23 – 25: Carthage Texas
We had a great RV spot for the TomsMaHauL motorhome at Carthage RV Campground.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed time in Carthage (TX), including a Friday evening dinner at The Texas Tea Room. Great meal, and friendly service!An excellent meal was enjoyed at The Texas Tea Room in downtown Carthage. Below are some photos of our tour through the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.We had a great time touring the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in Carthage. We picked some songs on the Jukebox, and listened to our selections while viewing the many wonderful displays. GREAT museum!
Below are a few photos of a Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri stop on Hwy 79 in Carthage, to view the “Gentleman” Jim Reeves Memorial. Jim Reeves, his wife & his dog, are buried here. A huge guitar on the path to the monument.
Below are a few photos from a visit that we made in the Carthage area, at the Footprints In The Sand Monument. The Footprints in the Sand Foundation did a wonderful job w/ this monument.
February 8 – 12: Destin, Florida
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri w/ some family at the original Dewey Destin Seafood Restaurant, near Crab Island in Destin (FL). L-R: Joe, Lily, Tom, Teri, Regan, Justin, Missy & Tim
January 14: Shreveport Symphony performing Def Leppard w/ 98Rocks
Photo of Tom on stage at the show, welcoming everyone & mentioning some sponsors at Riverview Theater. Then, Tom shouted “Rock Rock ‘Till You Drop – Rock Rock Never Stop!” (line from a Def Leppard hit) & the performance started. Fun crowd. Great time!Photo of Tom & Teri in the crowd. Teri was whistling LOUD & dancing in her seat, the whole night. Our family, along w/ Tom’s co-workers & 98 Rocks fans, had an excellent time at the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra concert to celebrate the music of Def Leppard.The Shreveport Symphony, joined by Windborne Music & the rock band, celebrated with a very enthusiastic crowd, as the show came to a close.
New Years Eve: Shreveport Elks Lodge
Trippin’ w/Tom & Teri returned from South Louisiana, to rock into the New Year at the Shreveport Elks LodgeChasin’ Benjamins rocked the stage at the Shreveport Elks Lodge on New Years Eve. Teri kept Tom busy on the dance floor.Party favors (New Years hat & horn) were provided. Tom put the horn up to his ear, while walking around the place, and (frequently) saying “HUH??!!! HUH??!!!” It was obvious that Tom was having, entirely, too much fun.
December 28 – 31: Deep South Louisiana in Morgan City
We’re around the swamps & bayous of deep south Louisiana near Morgan City, to celebrate the 80th birthday of Tom’s Mom. Photos & more from previous visits to this area HERE
December 20 -22: Pre-Christmas Journey to Lake Hawkins
A tree took this photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri, while we stopped along a trail at Lake Hawkins RV Park. When the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome pulled up to the entry booth on Wednesday, Liz greeted us w/ a smile, while her daughter drove an atv to deliver firewood to our RV site. Great family-run park that we’ve visited for many years. Merry Christmas to Liz, Ryan & their wonderful family, & thanks for your on-going efforts here.We just happened to come across some A+ boudin at R&C Beverage Mart. After taste-testing the regular flavor, Tom knew that the boudin was made by someone from our state (Louisiana). It was THAT good! So good that Tom stood outside at the sign, hollering at those driving by to “Come & Get Ya’ Some!”. Within walking distance of our RV spot at Lake Hawkins RV ParkWhen we get over to this area, we never pass up a chance to enjoy EXCELLENT Italian food at Taste of Italy on The Lake. Tom is a lasagna aficionado, and he loves their lasagna. NOTE: BYOB
Mid-December: Rockin’ Out In Downtown Shreveport
Some of our family gathered in downtown Shreveport at The Noble Savage to support & encourage the young brother & sisters in the band Anna Lee’s Revolver. Teri had Tom on the dance floor for several songs. Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri getting ready to head out on a date (dining & dancing w/ Anna Lee’s Revolver at The Noble Savage).
December 7 – 10: Always GREAT to Return to Jefferson
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a great meal at the veteran-owned McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon – Jefferson, TX. We hate that we didn’t get to sing along w/ Jennifer Anne McMullen, as she had an area private party gig, but we enjoyed the live dinner music provided.We found these Christmas bicycles on the side of a neighborhood hill. Cool! We didn’t hang around for Christmas Zumba @ Art on the Bayou Gallery Jefferson, Texas, but we found some more stocking stuffers w/ Sarah in their store. Then, across the street to see Hollye, Richard & crew at The KnightLight Theater, where lasagna, shrimp wraps, beverages & more, were enjoyed for dinner.We enjoyed a delicious family dinner in the beautiful Excelsior Ballroom during the Christmas season. We enjoyed some dancing to the great selection of songs from the band REWIND at Auntie Skinners Riverboat Club.While we were in the area, we restocked on some of our favorite coffee from Port Jefferson Coffee Roasters.Among the many places that we visited, we stopped in at Nutty’s Peanut Butter store to restock our supply of their tasty flavors! Made in Jefferson.
November 24 – 26: Wright Patman Lake & Texarkana Fun
Teri captured a photo of our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome spot at Rocky Point Campground on Wright Patman Lake near Domino (TX).Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed an early Friday supper at Naaman’s Championship BBQ near I-30 in north Texarkana. Excellent food, environment & service! This place is, definitely, a do-over (we shall return).After returning from an early supper in Texarkana, we enjoyed a beautiful sunset. Great view from ourTomsMaHauL motorhome spot at Rocky Point on Wright Patman Lake.Big crowd enjoyed the excellent sound quality, stage production & song selection of TEAZUR on stage at Fat Jacks Oyster and Sports Bar Texarkana AR. We always love their rendition of the National Anthem to start their shows. The guys in the band are some of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet, & they appreciate the support of the many fans that follow them around the ArkLaTex.
November 4: Teri’s ’69 Chevelle Malibu in the Car Show @ Coffee On The Red (Bossier City, LA)
Teri’s photo of Tom sippin’ coffee at our Chevy. Huge crowd at the Coffee on the Red Car show in Bossier. Perfect weather! Lots of cool vehicles. Teri’s ’69 Chevelle looks great, shining in the morning sun.Videos & photos of our Chevy at car shows & cruisin’ on the roads… HERE
October 27 – 29: Caddo Lake/Uncertain Halloween Parade & More Fun
We were grateful that Pine Island RV Park (Karnack & Uncertain, Texas) had an available spot for our TomsMaHauL motorhome. We’ve been to this RV park several times over the years, & have always enjoyed our stays. Beautiful view along the Big Cypress Bayou, near Caddo Lake.We enjoyed time on the Texas side of Caddo Lake – dining on the patio at Big Pines Lodge, lunch at the Bear Creek Smokehouse 80th Anniversary weekend, meeting folks at the Caddo Lake Lighthouse, stopping at Johnson’s Ranch, the huge Halloween parade in Uncertain & more! It was great to see old friends, and make new friends (which is always good). A very eventful, and fun, weekend.
Among the stops during our weekend TomsMaHauL.com motorhome journey was to be a part of the 80th birthday for Bear Creek Smokehouse General Store & Event Center. Great meal & Bear Creek Smokehouse birthday cake. We enjoyed ice cream & live music on the porch, along w/ a carnival.Teri spent time with the animals around this, beautiful, property. A lot of folks (from all across the ArkLaTex) stop by to enjoy time at Bear Creek.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri stopped in for great beverages & conversations w/ about 40 entries in the Uncertain/Caddo Lake Halloween Parade that were signing up at the Caddo Lake Lighthouse. Teri captured a photo of Tom strolling around the parking lot to check out the many decorated parade ATVs, golf carts, motorcycles & more.Photo of The Skipper & Mary Ann on the Gilligan’s Island S S Minnow float. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri found a parking spot in downtown Uncertain (TX), where Teri captured photos of the some of the many entries in the Caddo Lake Halloween Parade. The large parade was guided by the Uncertain Volunteer Fire Department truck, as the parade rolled to several locations around the area.
Teri strolled around & captured this video (below) of about half of the 40 entries in the 9th Annual Caddo Lake Halloween Parade in Uncertain (TX). We had a great time watching this parade, and it was enjoyed by the hundreds of families that were around our location, as the parade rolled on to several other locations.
Several more Halloween Parade photos in our gallery at TomsMaHauL Facebook.Teri captured a photo of Tom checking out the old truck, when we stopped in at Johnson’s Ranch on Caddo Lake. When Tom & Teri dated in high school, Tom had a gold ’51 Chevy pickup truck. We love old trucks!
October 14 – 16: Lake Hawkins RV Park, Texas
On our way to Lake Hawkins RV Park, we stopped at a rest area near Waskom, Texas, to take turns using our solar glass while viewing a solar eclipse. Then, we continued on our way to Wood County. After arriving at Lake Hawkins RV Park, we strolled around and noticed more additions to the park, since we were here last. Then, it was a short drive in the toad (the Jeep we pull behind our motorhome) to enjoy a dinner on the patio at Taste Of Italy by the Lake. Excellent lasagna! And, beautiful weather. Lake Hawkins RV Park website HERE. Lake Hawkins RV Park Facebook HERE
Early October: Red River Revel, Seventh Tap & Hurricane Alley
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed the first of serveral 98Rocks 40th Anniversary events. Some of the best ArkLaTex musicians put on a great show @ the Red River Revel in Shreveport.As some of the regions best musicians prepared to play, NukeMan, Bobby Cook & Tom smile at the cameras with the Governor’s commendation award for 98Rocks, before turning the Red River Revel stage over to an incredible band.Our songs, Justin & Tim, w/ “Dad” (Tom) holding the commendation award, joined by the 98Rocks NukeMan in the 98Rocks hospitality tent @ the Red River Revel.When Justin & Tim were younger, they worked at the radio station w/ Tom, before going on to their own careers.Trippin w/ Tom & Teri enjoying an early October Saturday night at Hurricane Alley LIVE in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier. Packed place.Tom w/ the staff at The Seventh Tap Brewing Project in Shreveport for another 98Rocks 40th Anniversary event.
September 30: Downtown Shreveport – Family Gathering to Celebrate Tom’s Birthday
What a Saturday night in the city!!! Our family gathered at The Noble Savage Shreveport for dinner to celebrate Tom’s birthday. GeminiiDragon & the New Orleans Trauma Unit band performed an excellent show! Blues on steroids! Christian Simeon was in a zone on his guitar. Positive & relatable messaging by GeminiiDragon & her singing style is powerful & unique. Excellent original songs + great renditions of popular blues & rock songs! We wish the band safe travels for their first journey to the UK. Teri’s photo of the band on the stage.Thanks to our son, Tim, for the photo of Tom spinning Teri during a dance at The Noble Savage Shreveport as GeminiiDragon & The New Orleans Trauma Unit band performed their stunning & persuasive rendition of “Come Together” (Beatles). How about this? A nice surprise! When we got ready to leave, we discovered that our sons, Justin & Tim, had paid for the family’s meal & beverages.
September 28- 30: Marion County (TX)/Jefferson
The TomsMaHauL motorhome arrived in Jefferson before lunch. First, we stopped & enjoyed GREAT conversations w/ Laury & crew at the current City Hall location in the Visitors Center (where we pay our RV spot bill). Then, we strolled into McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon – Jefferson, TX for lunch. Always good food & service. Enjoyable conversations w/ some of the staff, too.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed supper at The KnightLight Tavern Thursday night. Good to see (owner) Richard. Always great to see Hollye, who did a great job w/ a 15-top table near us. And, our server this time was Zoey (daughter of the legend Bugs Henderson – we used to attend all of the Bugs Henderson shows when he would perform around here).After Thursday’s supper, though, we strolled around town & stopped in at the Haywood House Restaurant & Cocktail Bar for a tour of this wonderful, Historic building. The “well room” was cool! Upstairs cigar bar. Halloween decorated dining areas. We strolled into the bar area, where Teri magically levitated herself to get this photo of Tom below.Friday –the City-wide Rummage Sale, plus stopping in at some of the stores, and visit with friends, before attending the Becca Anderson Memorial Rodeo on the east side of Jefferson.
September 22 – 24: Lake Bistineau & Bayou Dorcheat
An impromptu TomsMaHauL.com motorhome journey: Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed Lake Bistineau State Park. It’s been quite awhile since we’ve been down to this area. We stopped at Our Place Bar & Grill for some burgers on the patio& some meat pies w/ a little shopping at Reynolds Country Store.Teri walked up to the field near our campsite, and captured this photo. Lake Bistineau State Park offers a 6-mile equestrian trail w/ a large field leading to pathways through the woods.Even with very little water in Lake Bistineau (due to the drawdown because of the invasive giant salvinia), it is, still, a beautiful place. This park was the first place that we camped, when we were dating. We tent camped back then, and even when our sons were young boys. Many, many moons ago. A Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo from a dock overlooking the lake bed, just a short walk from our TomsMaHauL motorhome.Bayou Dorcheat is 115 miles, with the source in Arkansas & the mouth of the bayou at Lake Bistineau, Louisiana.
September 1 – 4: Grand Ecore (LA) Labor Day Weekend
Teri had work to do in a Natchitoches office on Friday (9/1), so Tom secured a spot for the TomsMaHauL motorhome along Bayou Pierre at Grand Ecore RV Park (about 5 minutes from Natchitoches).It has been many, many, moons since we’ve enjoyed Billy O’Con‘s guitar style, and we spotted that Billy O’Con & Badd Apple are peforming at Mama’s Blues Room (Natchitoches) on Labor Day weekend.We were up early in the morning along Bayou Pierre at Grand Ecore RV Park. Tom captured a photo of Teri making breakfast at the TomsMaHauL motorhome. Saturday afternoon/night, we’ll stroll into the Historic Front St. shops in Natchitoches + a dinner w/ groovin’ time at Mama’s Blues Room at Mama’s Oyster House and Papa’s Bar and Grill w/ Billy O’Con and Badd Apple rockin’ the stage.Thanks to the NSU student (our server) for the Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo at our table at Mama’s Blues Room at Mama’s Oyster House and Papa’s Bar and Grill on Historic Front Street along the Cane River in Natchitoches. Glad we arrived a little early, because within an hour, the place was packed!Teri captured a photo of Billy O’Con and Badd Apple rockin’ Mama’s Blues Room in Natchitoches. The last time that we saw Billy was w/ Betty Lewis & the Executives at Music City Texas Theater in Linden, several years ago. There is so much GREAT musical talent all around the ArkLaTex, and Billy is a legendary guitarist in the Natchitoches area. The band’s song selection was excellent! We loved the band’s rockin’ version of Poke Salad Annie, along w/ many other interesting renditions of popular songs.
Mama’s Blues Room at Mama’s Oyster House and Papa’s Bar and Grill & Billy O’con’s band, had a huge crowd. Outside, a festival w/ Zydeco & Cajun bands sounded great on the huge stage next to the Cane River along Historic Front Street. We stopped & listened awhile, before heading back to Grand Ecore RV Park.
August 4 – 6: Gladewater, Gilmer & Los Pinos Ranch Vinyards (TX)
Heat warnings didn’t keep up us from rolling westbound I-20 to Antique Capital RV Park in Gladewater. The motorhome air conditioning units worked well. The park has a nice pool with covers. During our stay, we rode in our Jeep (that we tow behind the motorhome), and visited places in Gladewater, Gilmer & Los Pinos Ranch Vinyards (near Pittsburg TX).
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a Friday supper in Gladewater at Skippers Pier Coastal Cajun Kitchen . Great crew of workers in this popular place. Well managed. Very good food! One of our followers suggested this place, the last time that we were in this area. We’ve dined in this building before (when it was a different restaurant), and the current owners can be proud of the staff that works here. This place is, what we call, a “do-over” (we shall return).Teri made a wonderful breakfast at Teri’s TomsMaHauL Diner (our motorhome in the morning). Then, it was time to support the locals, so we stopped in Gladewater & Gilmer, before arriving for a mid-afternoon meal at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX. We’ve been here many times over the years, & even shared some of these experiences w/ family from other areas in our nation. Thanks to Silver (nice lady) who served us a DELICIOUS tapas platter, and Teri a flight of wine flavors, + Silver provided this photo. Also, we enjoyed lobster mac n’ cheese + salads. The Los Pinos wine sales & souvenir store has some very cool items to offer. Excellent service from the Los Pinos staff! We had a brick oven pizza boxed up & enjoyed, later in the evening while back at the motorhome.
July 21 -24: Destin (FL) – Family time + Vehicle Transport
For this trip, Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri flew a direct flight from Shreveport Regional Airport to Destin-Ft. Walton Beach Airport, near Eglin Air Force Base.The rest of our Shreveport-Bossier City family drove down a day earlier, and stayed a day later, before they teamed up to transport a ’93 GMC Typhoon from Destin to Bossier City.The family did some chores around Dad’s place, & enjoyed the time visiting with family. Dad’s pool was very enjoyable. Photo of Teri chillin’ out in the pool, sporting her new TomsMaHauL cap. Part of this journey included our sons (Tim & Justin), along with Missy & Regan, preparing to transport a 1993 GMC Typhoon from Destin to Tim’s garage in Bossier City (La).
Some of the family enjoyed time at area disc golf courses, a Destin brewery & Dewey Destin’s shoreline restaurant. A journey to the beach educated us in the fact that, during this time of year, the beaches are VERY crowded with tourists from all over the nation & other parts of the world. We are, usually, here in February every year, when this area is not as crowded.
During this journey, Tim & Missy made a great team, spending time in the garage, preparing the ’93 GMC Typhoon to put on the trailer to transport back to Bossier City. File photo of Tim & Missy at the beach in Destin.One day prior to the Destin journey, we celebrated Tim’s birthday at Taqueria San Miguel restaurant in Bossier City. L-R: Tim, Regan, Justin, Tom, Teri & Missy
More photos, videos & info from previous Destin jouneys on our Destin, Florida journal page HERE
July 1 – 6: New England – Vermont & New Hampshire
Time for a Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri video – checking in from downtown Montpelier (VT). A great vantage point for the city’s fireworks show on July 3rd, following a downtown parade. On Independence Day July 4th, we were at private annual patriotic presentation & fireworks show (HUGE!), nearby – presented by a retired military general in the family. Many family members from the new England area, as well as family from the Southern & Midwestern U.S., were in attendance.
Vermont is noted for it’s old-timey covered bridges, and below is a video that Teri made, when we found the oldest, remaining, covered bridge (built in 1844). As you see in the video, the bridge is, still, used for traffic today. One car at time. Emily’s Bridge is, also, an attraction for those that investigate hauntings, as Emily was a young lady that was going to elope w/ her love, and the meeting place was the bridge but… he didn’t show. The story is told that Emily ended her life on the bridge.
We found one of the tallest mountains in New England. Mt. Mansfield in Stowe (VT). We rode the gondola to the top, where you can see several states & Canada. Fun ride. Our ears made popping noises. The Canadian wildfire smoke still lingers over this area of New England, but maybe, you can see the many mountains in the distance?Near the top of Mt. Mansfield is the Cliff House Restaurant (Stowe, VT). We enjoyed a meal, before catching the gondola ride back down (near Smuggler’s Notch). Great food & service at the Cliff House.Before beginning our trip back to Louisiana, we stopped for some beverages & lunch at Spot on the Dock restaurant/bar on Lake Champlain. There’s been a debate for decades, to include this lake as one of the Great Lakes. For a brief period in 1998, the United States government officially recognized Lake Champlain as one of the Great Lakes. Apparently, the government changed it’s mind, though. This lake connects to Vermont, New York & Quebec Canada.Teri captures a photo of some of the family at a large 4th of July gathering & fireworks show. In the photo is Tom w/ his brother, sister, father, uncle & cousins. We are VERY grateful for the kindness & hospitality shown by all of our family during our visit. Photo of Tom, Teri, & brother Marc. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri arrived at The Homestead in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It was a great to visit Teri’s brother, Marc, for lunch. Marc built a cabin in the mountains years ago, & it’s his go-to place on many weekends (especially for some area military veterans biker events). We, also, enjoyed a wonderful supper at Uncle Butch’s house, w/ family gathering in Montpelier, Vermont. We’ve enjoyed time w/ Tom’s Dad (from Florida), Tom’s brother (from Iowa) & Tom’s oldest sister (from Dallas). We enjoyed a HUGE family patriotic fireworks show w/ family pot-luck food on the 4th.
June 23 – 25: Jefferson Weekend – Power Restored In Marion County – Hickory Hill @ 1852 On Austin Street
When in Jefferson, we always enjoy browsing through the stores, and dining @ local restaurants. You might spot us enjoying a milk shake, while strolling around the Jefferson General Store. After very high winds, due to a stong storm,over250,000 homes & businesses were without power in NE Texas & NW Louisiana for almost a full week. We stayed in our motorhome & ran the onboard generator at times during the week, while waiting for power restoration at our South Bossier home. Once most in the area had power restored, we kept our word to visit Jefferson, Texas. We love Jefferson. Above is a photo of Tom near Caddo Mercantile Antiques,Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri took the short walk from the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome to 1852 on Austin Street restaurant/bar/entertainment venue in Jefferson. We arrived a few hours early, and were surprised that our reserved table was right next to the stage for the Hickory Hill performance. Very nice place! Great food & excellent service! It was a very memorable night.We enjoyed the weekend in Jefferson. Good to see Richard & Hollye at The KnightLight Theater, where we enjoyed a nice dinner w/ Frank & Cathy at our table. Enjoyed a Saturday visit w/ Laury @ the store on Walnut Street, plus Angie & Sarah (Made in the Shade), The Willow Tree, the crew at Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas (Moody dogs, Frito pies & Tom’s mandatory milk shake) & stops at so many other places around town. We even spotted some new businesses, when Teri had Tom stop for a photo op in front of Junkin Is My Jam.
June 8 – 11: Hot Springs – Catherine’s Landing, Ouachita River, Lake Catherine & Surrounding Area
The Ouachita River is a 605 mile long river & is the 25th longest river in the U.S.
The weather was perfect, when Teri decided it was time for this video, while some of the TomsMaHauL crew were on the Ouachita River near Lake Catherine, so Tom did camera duties. Nice boat from Catherine’s Landing.
That video was done before (our sons) Justin & Tim took turns driving the boat in a (surprise) pop up storm – a few miles (or so) back to the boat dock. Heavy rain (some hail), strong wind & a few lightning flashes.
During a boat ride on the Ouachita River & Lake Catherine (AR), our sons played the game of “Trust My Direction”. Who’s idea was this? Yes, it was Tom’s idea! What did Mom (Teri) think of Dad (Tom) teaching them this game?We enjoyed the boat ride on the Ouachita River, along w/ docking at Lake Catherine State Park & some anchor & swimming time. A severe storm popped up & made for a perilous journey back to the boat dock. Thankfully, Regan was at the RV, while the rest of us were on the water, as Regan brought in the awnings & secured things around our campsite, because camping equipment in other RV spots incurred damage.
While the TomsMaHauL crew visited, nearby, Hot Springs, Tom, Justin & Regan were securing a table for 6 at Grateful Head pizza, while Teri, Tim & Missy made this short video at Hot Springs Hot Water Cascade…
Missy captured a photo of Tom, while Tom had that “What the heck is this” look on his face, while stopping to check out an art figure in Hot Springs.Missy captured a photo of Teri and son, Tim, during a tour of The Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa in Hot Springs. The hotel has been hosting guests since 1875.
Regan, captured this video (below) of Tom at Robo World (offering “caffine, cold treats & modest seclusion”) in downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. Tom couldn’t pass this place up, and Tom will tell you “this place is a do-over” (meaning, we shall return).
Teri may be the Mom, but she can, still, run w/ the younger ones. Tom captured a photo of Teri w/ our son, Tim, after Tim challenged his Mom to a foot race on the Catherine’s Landing disc golf course, near Hot Springs. The family enjoyed the disc golf course, several times, during our stay at Catherine’s Landing.
Typical weather this time of year. The pop-up storm came and went within an hour, providing a calm wind & some sunshine, which was perfect for our sons to grill for their Mom’s (Teri) birthday. Teri decided it was time for another quick video. It was kind of funny, because Teri & Tom sang along with, and did some dancing, to some good music that our sons selected. Missy grabbed a deck of cards to demonstrate some “magic” card tricks that she learned. We sensed that our neighbors thought “those crazy people from Louisiana”.
After the storms passed, the sun came out. Tom captured a photo of our sons grilling & preparing Teri’s birthday dinner in our RV spot at Catherine’s Landing.
Catherine’s Landing offers RV spots, yurts, cabins, cottages, zip-line, hiking trails, tent pads, pool & many amenities. More photos, videos & links from other visits to this area, on our Hot Springs/Catherine’s Landing website journal page HERE
May 26 – 28: Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park (near Natchitoches, LA)
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoying the pool at Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park. More on this rv park HERE
Below, Teri surprised Tom by making another TomsMaHauL.com Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri short video. This was during our dining experience at Cane River Commissary, where Tom unveils his definition of… “professional”….
We enjoyed a great meal at one of our favorite restaurants, when we get down this way. The Cane River Commissary. Friendly service & great food. Tom also bought a Cane River Commissary shirt, because he liked that it noted that the official location of the restaurant is in Bermuda, Louisiana. Thanks to our server for this photo. Tom is sporting one of his favorite Down Home Meats caps. Tom says that the cap adds a little class to his frame.Before heading back to the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park, we stopped at the Flying Heart Brewing & Pub – Natchitoches location & enjoyed the live music from Will Maranto & the Usual Suspects. Great selection of popular songs, including some cool originals. We enjoyed the conversations w/ several workers.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed an evening along the Cane River in Natchitoches. Photo from our table on the patio at The Loft/Landing Restaurant & Bar. Perfect weather to see the folks board the Cane River cruise paddle boat, and watch the activity along the riverfront. We enjoyed great service, and a delicious Natchitoches meat pies appetizer. Then, we stopped in at Mama’s Oyster House and Papa’s Bar and Grill. Nice meal and very friendly service.Teri captured a photo of Tom in front of the Laughing Sam’s Discs music store in Natchitoches. Excellent selection of vinyl records, CDs, posters, record players (that work) & MORE! We enjoyed conversations w/ several folks hanging out in the store. The store owner, also, does an early morning show on a local Natchitoches radio station. We enjoyed spending time in this place.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed time along Front Street while browsing & purchasing some items in the shops along the Cane River in Natchitoches. We took a break on a bench that provided shade under an old live oak tree. Tom captured a photo of the paddle wheel riverboat going by.
May 17: Alice Cooper Concert @ The Shreveport Municipal Auditorium
After a pre-concert dinner in the Bossier City East Bank District, we crossed the Red River into Shreveport to settle into our seats at the Municipal Auditorium for the concert. L-R: Tom, Teri, Justin (oldest son) & Regan (daugher-in-law).WOW!!! A GREAT peformance & stage show from Alice Cooper at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium! Teri took many other concert photos, posted at TomsMaHauL Facebook HERE
May 13 – Strand Theatre (Shreveport) Black Jacket Symphony Dark Side of the Moon Concert
L-R: Missy w/ Tim (our youngest son) in the lobby at The Strand Theatre of Shreveport before the Black Jacket Symphony band’s performance of the entire Dark Side of the Moon album.Great crowd at the The Strand Theatre of Shreveport, during the 50th Anniversary of the Dark Side of the Moon album + other Pink Floyd music. The The Black Jacket Symphony band were EXCELLENT! Perfect quality sound, light show & effects.Teri’s photo of the Black Jacket Symphony band performing the Pink Floyd hit song “Wish You Were Here” at the Strand Theatre. More of Teri’s concert photos at TomsMaHauL Facebook HERE
April 28 – 30: Texarkana – Forest Lake RV Park & 67 Landing Combat Veterans Benefit
The TomsMaHauL motorhome returned to Forest Lake RV Park & Event Center. We enjoyed time here last September, and are happy to be booked in one of the few available RV spots this weekend.We enjoyed attending a combat veterans benefit at 67 Landing. This was a charity event to raise money to support our combat veterans. Teri captured a photo of WTW on the upper patio stage at 67 Landing, for a Friday night pre-party, setting up for a Saturday big event on the big stage (behind the band).Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at our reserved table, Friday night, up on the 67 Landing patio (over-looking “the turf” (artificial football field turf & big stage).After a stormy overnight Friday in the TomsMaHauL motorhome, the sun was shining on Saturday while we were at a combat veterans benefit at 67 Landing. Teri captured a photo of Aces & 8s (John on drums & harmony vocals + Mason on lead guitar, bass & lead vocals) on stage. We enjoyed the music & meeting a lot of good folks this weekend. Teri captured a photo of Tom under 67 Landing restaurant & patio, near “the turf” (artificial turf from a football field) & big stage. It’s no secret that, when there is an old truck in sight, Tom is going to check it out.
April 14 – 16: Our Anniversary Weekend – Marshall, Jefferson, Karnack, Caddo Lake (TX)
Our 44th Tom & Teri wedding anniversary is this weekend. It was short notice, but Wanda & JR just told us that they had a spot for us this weekend at Pine Island RV Park. That’s home base, but we’re spending time at Telegraph Park w/ Wes Jeans performing in downtown Marshall and stopping in to check out the Outlaw Nationals Car Show in Jefferson on Saturday to beneift Camp I’m Still Me (ArkLaTex children’s burn camp).We bought Teri’s 1969 Chevelle at an Outlaw Nationals Car Show event (over a decade ago).During this weekend, we’ll enjoy time along the Big Cypress Bayou at Caddo Lake.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo of our anniversary dinner at The Ginocchio restaurant, next to the Amtrak station in Marshall. Enjoyed the dinner & looking around this Historic building, before going a few blocks (or so) to Telegraph Park to rock w/ the Wes Jeans band, across from Marshall’s beautiful downtown courthouse.After dinner at The Ginocchio, we walked around the area outside of the restaurant. Tom always stops to read Historical markers, and this one was recognizing that Marshall, Texas is the birthplace of the Boogie Woogie music genre.From the patio at The Ginocchio, Teri captures a photo of the Marshall train museum & Amtrak station.We set up our chairs in the street, near the downtown Marshall courthouse for an outdoor concert with the Wes Jeans band. We strolled around Telegraph Park, when we stopped to read this display. The first telegraph office established in Texas was in 1854 at this location in Marshall.The Wes Jeans band performed an awesome selection of music, w/ excellent sound quality + top notch talent, on the night of our 44th wedding anniversary at Telegraph Park (near the courthouse in downtown Marshall). We enjoyed the conversation with Mike Jeans (super-nice man & Wes’s proud father).
March 31 – April 2: Dalton Days & Wild Show (Longview) + Return To Antique Capital RV Park (Gladewater)
Throughout 2023, Gladewater is celebrating 150 years. We’ll support local in Gladewater, plus we’ll attend the Dalton Days & Wild West Show in, nearby, Longview.Lee Mathis & The Brutally Handsome band, are performing north of Gladewater, in Gilmer. Plus, we’ll enjoy the heated pool, near the TomsMaHauL motorhome at Antique Capital RV Park. Tom stopped to talk to the sheriff & outlaw Bill Dalton, before one of the bank robbery reenactments. Teri said “Time for a photo. Y’all look this way”. Dalton Days experienced a huge crowd, and the Dalton Gang bank robbery shootout reenactment performances were great in downtown Longview. This festival has experienced massive growth since we, first, came to a Dalton Days event some years ago.More Dalton Days photos, and how the event relates to the Eagles “Desperado” album, on this TomsMaHauL website journal page HERE.A huge crowd enjoyed great weather Saturday afternoon for the Dalton Days Wild West Show reenactment of the Dalton Gang bank robbery in Longview, w/ live music, a lot of vendors & displays, along w/ Gregg County celebrating 150 years. The bank robbery shootout was an excellent part of the event.During our stay in Gladewater, we dined at a local restaurant, followed by a cruise around town. We spotted Jackson’s Theater (formerly the Gladeweater Opry) and noticed that the Purple Hulls were performing. We were introduced to the Purple Hulls at a Hickory Hill concert at Music City Texas Theater (Linden) 3 years earlier, and were amazed at their talent as great musicians & entertainers. Teri captured this photo of Tom, stepping outside during an intermission break at the Jackson’s Theater show. More on the Purple Hulls below.Teri captured a photo ofIdentical twins, Katy Lou & Penny Lea, who are known as the Purple Hulls, joined by Sarah Mae (very talented stand-up bass player from Duluth, MN) performing at Jackson’s Theater in Gladewater. One of the twins, recently, married the grandson of music legend Johnny Gimble. Katy & Penny tell the story that their family grew purple hull peas on their farm in Texas, to raise the funds for their college education. The Purple Hulls Facebook page HERE. Following Dalton Days in Longview, we returned to the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at Antique Capital RV Park in Gladewater, before we decided to roll in the Jeep up to Davidson’s Restaurant & Bar in, nearby, Gilmer to support live local music and enjoy a Saturday night performance from Lee Mathis & the Brutally Handsome band. Teri captured a photo of the band having a good time on stage.
March Weekends in the Bossier City East Bank District
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a Thursday evening dinner w/ Justin & Regan (son & dauther-in-law) at Frozen Pirogue in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier City. Justin was returning from a class at Bossier Parish Community College when he texted “let’s meet for dinner”. Frozen Pirogue was open to the view of the Hurricane Alley LIVE stage, & Teri captured a photo of the Stilettos band performing for the crowd.Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at Red River Brewpub at the Garage in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier. After a stop at Hurricane Alley LIVE and Frozen Pirogue, we strolled around a craft fair, before a short walk over to Red River Brewpub Garage.Earlier, Tom bought a Red River Brewpub at the Garage cap, so Teri wore Tom’s old Route 66 cap, since Tom would have looked weird wearing 2 caps at the same time. Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at the Drunken Monkey Tavern in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier City.
March 3 – 5: White Oak Lake & Little Grand Canyon, Arkansas
Upon our arrival, Teri strolled down to capture a photo of the White Oak Lake State Park entry, after Tom pulled over to unhook the Jeep from the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. We arrived Friday afternoon, after we followed the scenic route through southwest Arkansas.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri after a Friday afternoon supper, chillin’ around the campfire in our White Oak Lake State Park RV spot, while we talked about Saturday’s plan to visit the nearby Little Grand Canyon & Poison Springs Battleground + hike some of the White Oak Lake Park trails.
Here is an impromptu video that Teri made from an area at the Arkansas Little Grand Canyon…
NOTE:Along with driving from White Oak Lake State Park (like we did in our Jeep) to the Little Grand Canyon, the park offers kayak, paddle boat & motorboat rentals so you can cross the lake to the Little Grand Canyon. The White Oak Lake Park visitors center (where you check in) provides maps and info on the surrounding area, as well as some supplies, fishing bait & firewood. The nearest store is miles aways, so it’s a good idea to come to this park, with most of the food & supplies that you need during your time spent here.
The Arkansas Little Grand Canyon trails aren’t marked (though there are paths), but just when you think you’ve seen it all, continue on & you’ll be able to walk further into the “canyon” area. Upon our arrival, after driving on an earthen dam or levee, we turned right & found an area where visitors park. After backing into a spot, behind us, we could see some unusual ground formations, so it was a short walk to that area. But, hiking on unmarked trails just up from where we parked, we came to what is known as “The Little Grand Canyon”. It is believed that this area was part of the Gulf of Mexico, after the Ice Age freeze started receding? Also, across from where we parked, is an area where you walk down to where there’s a small dam at White Oak Lake. When that dam overflows, water flows through the Little Grand Canyon.Just down the highway from the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at White Oak Lake State Park is the Poison Springs Battleground Park. Tom is known for reading roadside markers, but there is also a lot of good Historical information in the covered passport area at the Poison Springs Battleground Park.Tom captures a photo of Teri before we hiked the Poison Spring Nature Trail after strolling around & learning more about the Poison Springs Battleground. The hiking trail was a pleasant walk with a well-marked trail.After returning from The Little Grand Canyon & Poison Springs Battleground State Park, Teri explored one of the 3 hiking trails at White Oak Lake State Park.Tom spotted Teri returning from one of the well-marked hiking trails at White Oak Lake State Park.Tom captures a photo of Teri @ the firepit in our RV spot.After each day’s activities, we enjoyed Teri’s prepared supper, followed by firepit time and observing the night sky & strolling around the camping areas.
Late February – Hangin’ Out in the Bossier City East Bank District
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were out on the town on a Saturday night, stopping in to support local in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier City. Huge crowd in the district! Sharing a selfie after our dinner, w/ great service, at the Frozen Pirogue. Jessica was an excellent server! Service w/ a smile + great attitude is always a winner. This photo is at Hurricane Alley LIVE (behind Frozen Pirogue). Great lineup of bands scheduled at Hurricane Alley this year.After a stop at Hurricane Alley LIVE and Frozen Pirogue, we strolled around a craft fair, before a short walk over to Red River Brewpub Garage. We enjoyed the time. A son of friends of ours spotted us, and came over to say “hello”, as he was at Red River Brewpub garage with his son & wife. He was a childhood friend w/ one of our sons, and we had not seen him since he was boy. He’s grown into a fine young man. Enjoyed the conversation.Earlier, Tom bought a Red River Brewpub at the Garage cap, so Teri wore Tom’s old Route 66 cap (purchased on the corner in Winslow, AZ), since Tom would have looked weird wearing 2 caps at the same time. Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at the Drunken Monkey Tavern in the East Bank District & Plaza in Bossier City. Christy was setting up for Wildchild karaoke while we were there.
February 9 – 13: Destin, Florida
Our family from Shreveport/Bossier City enjoyed the Destin (Fl) area and visiting family in Destin. We’ll share more photos from the journey here soon, and at TomsMaHauL Facebook. Some of our family enjoyed time at an area brewery & the state park beach while in Destin. Teri cooked some meals, while Tom & our sons did some maintenance chores at the home of a family member. Below, Tom captures a photo of Teri observing our sons, Justin & Tim, servicing outside lights at the home of Tom’s Dad (Justin & Tim’s grandfather).
February 3 – 5: Near Caddo Lake, Karnack & Uncertain (TX)
It was a great weekend at Pine Island RV Park along the Big Cypress Bayou near Caddo Lake & Uncertain, Texas. Thanks Wanda & J.R., for having a spot available for the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. While strolling along Pine Island Rd, Teri captured a photo of Tom talking to an ominous & mysterious figure along the bayou. Tom will talk to anyone that will listen.We’ve been to Bear Creek Smokehouse & General Store before, and it has been on our do-over list, so during our stay at Pine Island RV Park near Karnack & Uncertain (TX), we returned to Bear Creek. Great weather! A very enjoyable Saturday afternoon. Teri captured a Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri selfie at Bear Creek.During our weekend stay at Pine Island RV Park (Caddo Lake), we drove the Jeep over to Bear Creek Smokehouse near Marshall (TX). We enjoyed a late lunch on the back patio at the Bear Creek General Store. Great BBQ meats & fixins + very friendly service.After our meal at Bear Creek Smokehouse, we had ice cream while we shopped around in the Bear Creek General Store. The store is well stocked w/ some of the Bear Creek meats & many souvenir items. Around the outside of the store were various farm animals, including some longhorns.During our stay at Pine Island RV Park, near Caddo Lake State Park, Karnack & Uncertain, Texas, we enjoyed “steak night” at the nearby Caddo Lake Lighthouse.
January, 2023: Enjoying Time Around Bossier City & Shreveport
Photo of a pre-concert dinner w/ our son & daughter-in-law at Fat Calf Brasserie restaurant in the Historic Highland District. The rest of the night included the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra saluting the music of Led Zeppelin, followed by some Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri time at Bayou Thunder Saloon (where TEAZUR was rockin’ the stage) & then stopping in to spend time w/ family & friends at Bear’s.
It was a sold out concert at Riverview Hall in Shreveport, when 98 Rocks joined w/ the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra to salute the music of Led Zeppelin. Below are a few of the photos that Teri captured at the concert. It was great to spend the time w/ some of our family for the evening. The pre-concert gathering, along w/ the stage performance, was a very enjoyable time.
__________________________________________________Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at Red River Brewpub at the Garage . We enjoyed a Saturday evening in the Bossier City East Bank District & Plaza, including a stop for pizza & beverages at Flying Heart Brewing & Pub, along w/ strolling to other East Bank District locations. We stopped to check out the new location of Red River Brewpub at the Garage (formerly a Studebaker garage). Great crowd (all ages) in the East Bank District.
December 30 – January 1: Wright Patman Lake + New Years Eve Fun @ Redbone Magic in Texarkana
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were in a great RV spot on the shore of Wright Patman Lake at Rocky Point. Once we arrived & lowered the TomsMaHauL motorhome jacks, opened the pull-out rooms (aka slideouts) & plugged into the power pole, Tom propped open our chairs & declared “It’s chillin’ time, again.” That, means, it’s nap time.We enjoyed a Friday night dinner at Pop’s Place restaurant (Texarkana).The quality of sound for TEAZUR on stage, was PERFECT at Redbone Magic Brewing LLC! Tobie, Mike, Scott & Clint are a fun band, and every time that we’ve seen this band, it’s obvious that they enjoy their time entertaining the crowds. Excellent selection of songs & a very entertaining stage show! Teri had Tom dancing to midnight. Makin’ Memories is what we do, and we made a great memory to cherish, leaving 2022 into 2023.Tom was honored to welcome the crowd & introduce the band. Roger & Debbie Sheppard, along with their staff at Redbone Magic Brewing LLC, make a great team. Josh was our server & did an excellent job! We’ll look forward to returning.TEAZUR band info HEREAbove is the story of Redbone Magic Brewing that is found on their menu, but we learned that there’s more to the story. Roger was a Louisiana Tech Bulldogs football player. We thank Roger for the tour of the brewery. It’s no surprise that Roger & Debbie are highly thought of, and well supported, by their patrons.
December 27 – 30: Lake Hawkins RV Park
After enjoyable Christmas holiday family time in NW Louisiana, we’re on the road during the week leading up to New Years weekend. The TomsMaHauL motorhome is booked at Lake Hawkins RV Park until Friday (Dec 30). We’ve seen this park & beach area grow, with more camping spots & activities, over the years. Liz, Ryan & family work & maintain the Wood County, Texas park, and have done a great job.
Photos, links and more, from our other journeys to this area on our Lake Hawkins Journal page HERE
December 16 – 18: Busy B Wildlife Ranch & Jefferson (Tx) Pre-Christmas Time
Teri made some videos of the adventure while Tom drove through the Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park in Marion Country (Tx) and we share a short video below . Busy B is on our “do-over” list of places to return to, and we’ll bring some family & friends along next time.Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park is just north of Jefferson. We enjoyed a few hours there on a beautiful Saturday (week before Christmas Eve). Before they opened the gate to let us drive through, we strolled around the entry area, as Teri enjoyed serving many, different, animals some treats (available at the park office & gift shop).We stopped to visit Santa at the Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park gift shop. This baby kangaroo is about 5 or 6 months old, and just left his mother’s pouch in recent days. Teri is holding it in a pouch in this photo. When we return in 2023, we’ll see how much the baby has grown, under the great care of the family at Busy BRanch.
Once the gates are opened, visitors must stay in your vehicles, as you take a slow drive though. We were greeted by many, different, animals at Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park. Teri made this short video to share with you….
We enjoyed a Friday night dinner at Don Juan’s Mexican Restaurant , followed by a cruise around town. We passed many decorated homes, B & Bs and the city park with the many lighted Christmas trees.On Saturday, we spent enjoyable time at Busy B Ranch Wildlife Park, and we did some Christmas shopping in some of the downtown Jefferson stores.Here’s Teri in the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas on a cold Friday night. Cold outside, but, pleasantly, warm in the store. The title of this sign, could be the title of a hit song (waiting to happen)?
November 25 – 27: LIARS RV Group Near Natchitoches
LIARS = Louisiana Independent Association of Recreation Specialists. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed our time, when a great group of friends gathered in the Grand Ecore RV Park clubhouse, with all kinds of great food, college football on the clubhouse TV, and many games & activities each day.While some were enjoying the rockin’ chairs on the porch at the Grand Ecore RV Park clubhouse, Tom stepped inside to capture a photo of Teri w/ the many in the LIARS group that were having fun playing games (&, often, loud laughter could be heard).We enjoyed some walks around Grand Ecore RV Park & the banks of Bayou Pierre with some of our family that stopped by to visit. We missed Tim & Missy at the Thanksgiving family get together at our house, but they drove down Highway 71 to join us on Saturday, during our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome weekend journey. Tom captures a photo of Teri w/ Tim & Missy near the Grand Ecore recreation center (where the LIARS RV group gathered for food & fun over the weekend).Some of the Down Home Meats family were at Grand Ecore RV Park. David tells us that the Down Home business has been great! They’ve had to expand the operation in Stonewall, Louisiana. Down Home, sincerely, appreciates the many that have supported this local family-owned, business for almost 4 decades. Down Home has been involved in many benefit events in the ArkLaTex over the years, and their effort is appreciated.
November 11 – 13: Longview Arboretum & Great Steaks, while homebase was Fernbrook Park
We’ve stayed at Fernbrook Park several times, since the park opened several years ago. We’ve seen this park grow with more RV spots added. This park is as nice now, as it was when it was new. We enjoy dining at local owned restaurants, and exploring the Longview/Kilgore area.
Teri stopped walking, and said “This is a good spot”. Tom said “I’m with you”. So…. Here’s a 1 minute Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri video report along one of the paved paths at the, beautiful Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.…
Below, are 3 photos of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoying a beautiful Saturday afternoon at the 3rd anniversary of the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center. It was an open house/birthday celebration, with free admission throughout the day. People of all ages and abilities, enjoy this peaceful place of refuge. Great trails with flowing streams & waterfalls, along with many (interesting) plants & trees. The displays & decorations were fun. It was a wonderful experience, & is, now, on our do-over list. We’ll return.
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were between Madagascar & Caddo Lake, enjoying a beautiful Saturday afternoon at the 3rd anniversary of the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.Tom is sittin’ a spell, after strolling the property. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a beautiful Saturday afternoon at the 3rd anniversary of the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.Photo of Tom’s dinner date. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a great steak dinner at Leon’s Steakhouse & Saloon in Longview, Texas. When we’ve stop in at Leon’s, we (usually) get our steaks with grilled tomatoes w/ parmesan cheese, twice-baked potatoes & fried okra. During this visit, we watched a college football game on the screen above our table.
October 28 – 30: Natchitoches & Grand Ecore, Louisiana
The Cane River Creole National Historical Park requires some hiking on a well-groomed gravel trail, but there’s a lot to be learned from inside & outside of the structures. The live oak trees are hundreds of years old. The park is just south of Natchitoches. We enjoyed the time here, and Teri got in some of her Fitbit steps.
Teri decided it was time for another Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri video report…on the scene at the Cane River Creole National Historical Park near Natchitoches, Louisiana. This video was from the OakLand Plantation...
Less than a mile from the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, we spotted the Cane River Commissary restaurant & bar. We stopped in for lunch. Tom is a happy man when he’s at a table w/ good food. We decided on delicious local-flavor burgers & Cajun Corn Maque Choux (corn, onions, red-green peppers, Cayenne pepper & tomatoes in a cajun-flavored sauce). Cajun Corn Maque Choux is a combination of French, Creole & Native American cuisine. Delicious!It was a great experience, as always, in our TomsMaHauL RV spot at Grand Ecore RV Park near Natchitoches. CLICK HERE to see our photos, along with links & more info from our many visits to this area.
October – Dracula & Trunk or Treat at Bossier Parish Community College
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri attended one of the many performances of Dracula at the BPCC Theatre . Some laughs + suspense. We met a lot of great folks & enjoyed conversations in the theater lobby. We were treated to great food from the BPCC Culinary department & students (future chefs). It was great to meet the Cavalier Players after they performed Dracula.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were among the large crowd at the Bossier Parish Community College Trunk or Treat event with the BPCC Cavalier Athletics. It was a great & successful community event! Tom captured a photo of Darth Vader (Teri) at our decorated Jeep. Teri made the decorations, and we repurposed some things (like the helmet) that were used by our children many years earlier. We had candy + some Ty Beanies & other stuffed toys to give away, while we played Star Wars music.Hundreds of trick or treaters in attendance at the BPCC Trunk or Treat event. Early evening photo of Darth Teri with a happy (& cute) trick or treater that stopped by for candy & other surprises.
October 14 – 16: Marion County, Texas – Jefferson
Every year, during October (leading up to Halloween), this is one of Teri’s go-to shirts.
Below: Teri captured some photos of the fun, whenTrippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were among a large crowd at one of The Shady Ladies Witches of Jefferson dances. Thanks to Shaggy for letting Tom say a few words of gratitude to the Shady Ladies for their hard work preparing & dancing, and thanking the many in attendance, for donating to the Shriners Childrens Hospital of Shreveport. The dances continue on Fridays & Saturdays throughout the rest of October.
ATomsMaHauL photographer captures a photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri + a few of the Shady Ladies after one of the weekend evening performances of The Shady Ladies Witches of Jefferson benefit dances for Shriners Childrens Hospital. Great crowd! Many donated to the cause, and it was greatly appreciated by dancers & crew at Made in the ShadeTom captures a photo of Teri with (son) Justin at the Red Bus Cupcakes in Jefferson. Among the TomsMaHauL.com crew joining us this weekend was our oldest son, Justin, who drove over from Shreveport to hang out with us. We strolled around town & browsed through some of the many stores, as well enjoying lunches & dinners at some area restaurants.Saturday evening – Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed great food & entertainment on The KnightLight Theater restaurant patio. Large crowd! We enjoyed a band of high school youngsters (one senior & two sophomores from Hughes Springs, Texas). They played everything from “Come As You Are” (Nirvana) to “King of the Road” (Roger Miller) & a good variety of many other songs – bluegrass/folk style. Teri captured a photo of the Jackson James trio.
September 30 – October 3: Hot Springs, Arkansas @ Catherine’s Landing
Tom captures of photo of Teri “chillin'” at our RV Spot at Catherine’s Landing, near Hot Springs. While we were pulling into our spot, and setting up, there were bald eagles flying over us. VERY COOL! Others in the family brought their dogs, were in a cabin (just a short walk from the RV spot).After family (Tim & Missy) arrived at Catherine’s Landing, they joined Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at the park’s pool, followed by cookin’ up some supper before enjoying the beautiful disc golf course near our cabins & RV spot. Plenty of deer & armadillos were in attendance.Tom was the caddy & photographer.Our son, Tim, had fun behind the wheel of the pontoon boat on the Ouachita River, from Catherine’s Landing to Lake Catherine State Park. Teri captures a photo of Tim & Tom during the journey.Time for a TomsMaHauL.com group photo. During the boat ride on the Ouachita River, we stopped at an area near the boat launch at Lake Catherine State Park. L-R: Missy, Tim, Teri & TomAfter the boat ride we loaded into the Jeep and enjoyed an afternoon in, nearby, Hot Springs. We stopped in at some of the shops, before taking the tour of the Gangster Museum. Very educational museum tour. Tom captured a photo of Teri holding a Thompson submachine gun (Tommy Gun) with Al Capone. Folks can actually fire these guns nearby.Teri captured a photo of our son, Tim w/ Tom @ the Babe Ruth exhibit in the Gangster Museum. Back in the day, many baseball stars would come to Hot Springs for Spring training. Babe Ruth hit the 2nd longest baseball flight in History in Hot Springs. One of the baseballs was recovered in a nearby alligator farm. Babe Ruth was fined $50 for each baseball that he hit too far, which prompted Babe Ruth to tell officials that they needed to make the outfield bigger.Everyone knows that Tom will talk to anyone who’ll listen. Our son, Tim, captured a photo of Tom in the Hot Springs Gangster Museum, explaining to the lady that age is just a number (after Tom turned a certain age near the end of September).We’ve been to the Grateful Head in Hochatown (Oklahoma), near Broken Bow Lake, so we decided to try this one in Hot Springs. Teri, (our son) Tim & Tim’s fiance’, Missy, bought some Grateful Head shirts while we were there. Teri now has shirts from both Grateful Head locations.
Photos, links & more, from our several visits to the Hot Springs area HERE
September 22 – 25: Family Fun in Jefferson
We haven’t missed many Made in the Shade Anniversary parties on the patio. We had a great time & Teri bought some things at Made in the Shade. Beje’s Backyard Burgers, w/ Donnie Dodson of WTW rockin’ the stage, & meeting folks, was an enjoyable time. Art on the Bayou Galleryis right next door, so we stopped in, as well as visiting Laury (in one of the shops). We enjoyed a Saturday dinner at The KnightLight Theater & Tavern. The Jefferson General Store is always a mandatory stop when we’re in the area. We enjoyed strolling around town & stopping in at various places.
Thursday – Photo from Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri’s dinner date. Teri arrived at the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome & joined Tom at McGarity’s Restaurant & Saloon – Jefferson, TX. After dinner, Teri drove the Jeep back to Louisiana to take care of some business early Friday, while Tom did his More Rock While You Work gig on 98 Rocks. We enjoyed a great McGarity’s meal, and singing along w/ Jennifer Mc Mullen Music.During a few of the days, we enjoyed time with friends that stopped by our home-away-from-home. Evenings were relaxing times at the motorhome, watching folks enjoying their time in town.L-R: Oldest son, Justin, Teri, Tom &, good friend, Peggy. Peggy finished 2nd in a 5k run in Shreveport earlier in the day, before attending the party on the patio @ Made In The Shade in Jefferson. Thanks Peggy, for sharing your selfie photo with us. “Dad” (Tom) captured a photo of oldest son, Justin, with “Mom” (Teri) at Art on the Bayou Gallery Jefferson, Texas. Later in the evening, it was great to see (friend) Jessica T. from Louisiana, with her daughter & a group of children, after they finished their time in the black-light splatter room at Art on the Bayou. It looked like they, all, had a great time and made some good memories.Our son Justin had to get back to Shreveport, but our youngest son, Tim w/ his love, Missy, made it to Jefferson after they finished work in Shreveport on Saturday. We returned to Made in the Shade & enjoyed the VERY talented Donnie Dodson performing on stage at the patio party. Then, it was time for supper at The KnightLight Theater restaurant. Thanks Hollye, for this photo. Seated at the table L-R: Missy, Tim, Teri & Tom. That was followed by strolling around town & stopping for an hour w/ milkshakes at the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas.
September 16 – 18: Texarkana – Forest Lake RV Park & SnakeBone
After arriving & setting up in our RV spot, Teri prepared a wonderful dinner. We followed that with a refreshing time in the pool at Forest Lake RV Park, between the lodge & the lake house. The park is full of friendly RVers.Teri captured a photo from across the pond, looking back at our TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. We point out our RV in the photo. Cooler temperatures was perfect for Teri’s walks on the trail around the large pond at Forest Lake Rv Park And Events center. This place was packed! And, for good reason. Nice, quiet place with great customer service.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri stopped in at the, nearby, 67 Landing Bar & Grill (Hwy 67-Texarkana) for lunch. Teri had blackened grilled chicken breast, bacon-wrapped grilled asparagus & caesar salad. Tom had a big ribeye steak, loaded baked potato & cup of Texas-style gumbo. 67 Landing is a big place w/ plenty of parking. Lots of “live” bands perform here regularly. Thousands of interesting things to look at on the walls, inside & outside, of this place.Photo of Teri with SnakeBone guitarist, Bobby Langbartels, on the stage at Fat Jacks Oyster and Sports Bar Texarkana AR . The band was entertaining with great sound quality. We enjoyed their selection of songs!
August 19 – 21: Avinger & Linden, Texas
We enjoyed our time in Avinger, Texas. While at Avinger Station RV Park, the crew at the station depot (built in the mid 1800s) gave us a tour of their restoration project. We’re told that the old depot will be a museum, RV park office & serve breakfast & lunch. One of the depot restoration crew took this photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri holding one of the signs that will be on the Avinger Station depot.We enjoyed a great RV spot at the new Avinger Station over the weekend, and will plan to return in the next month or so. This park would be great for RV clubs & groups. It’s centrally located to many great towns to visit in the surrounding area, & is minutes from Lake O’ The Pines.While we were in theh area, we enjoyed meals at 5 D Cattle Company Steakhouse (Avinger) & County Seat Country Cookin’ Cafe (Linden). We returned to Music City Texas Theater in Linden, for a Hickory Hill performance. It was great to return to the theater and see friends that we haven’t seen in a while. Teri captured a photo of Tom on stage with the band.
July 29 – 31: Near Caddo Lake, Karnack & Uncertain Texas
We enjoyed being back in Wanda & J.R.’s neck of the woods at Pine Island RV ParkTeri captures a photo of Tom being surprised by the size of the Big Pines Lodge chicken fried steak. Tom forced his stomach out, to see if there would be room for it. Upon further investigation, we learned that there are huge chicken fried steaks served at other places around here, and some are called “sasquatch steaks” and “bigfoot steaks”. Tasty gravy to go with it. Tom boxed half of the meal and walked it back to the motorhome at Pine Island RV Park.Ron (from Our Place Bar & Grill on Lake Bistineau) put the idea in our heads to find Caddo Lake Lighthouse Bar & Grill for great burgers. We found “the Lighthouse” (between Uncertain & Karnack). It’s just up the road from the TomsMaHauL RV spot at Pine Island. Ron was right. Great burgers. Thanks for the idea, Ron! A nice lady at a table behind us, asked to take a photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri. Thanks for the photo, ma’am.
July 15 – 17: Gladewater & Pittsburg Texas
The following video is posted by Antique Capital RV Park on YouTube….
After arriving at Antique Capital RV Park in Gladewater (Tx), Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a Friday evening dinner Guadalupe’s Mexican Restaurant. Once we were back at the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at ACRV Park, we relaxed in the park’s pool. Saturday, we ended up at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX for lunch. Photo from the gazebo at Los Pinos.
Teri pieced together the following video from our visit to Los Pinos Ranch Vinyards in Pittsburg, Texas…
Tom smiled when the tapas platter arrived at our table at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards – Pittsburg, TX . Great platter of various tasty items! Normally, we get a table on the deck overlooking the vinyards, but we decided on the air conditioned inside dining area this time. Temperature outside – 98 degrees.After a fun day in Pittsburg & Gladewater (Tx), we enjoyed some Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri time in the pool at the Antique Capital RV Park in Gladewater (Tx). The TomsMaHauL motorhome (in the background in the photo) was placed in a spot just across the street from the park’s pool. Perfect!
June 17 – 19: Jefferson, Texas
We enjoyed Moody Dogs (chili + cheese hotdogs) & select cream sodas + ice cream…and, found some items of interest to purchase, at the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas & Henry’s 5 & 10. Teri asked Tom to face the camera and say “cheese”.We spent a hot Friday, stopping in at the many air conditioned places in Jefferson. Peggy (good friend) captured a Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo from Art on the Bayou Gallery Jefferson, Texas, before strolling across the street to dine at The KnightLight Theater restaurant/tavern.It looked like the exuberant bouncing-around inflatable was trying to grab Tom’s attention at Red Bus Cupcakes & Ice Cream in Jefferson.Teri captures a photo of Tom in “focus” mode. We’ve mentioned how rough many of the roads were, during our midwest journey to South Dakota. While in Jefferson, Teri pulled open an RV kitchen drawer, and it dropped on the drawer below it. Tom was busy for a time this morning, Screws must have shaken loose from thousands of miles of bumpy roads? Tom repaired the drawer and mechanisms with better screws & materials than the RV manufacturer used. All good.We always get a good feeling when we return to Jefferson, Texas.
Early/Mid June: Teri’s Birthday & Home Repairs
June 11th was a busy (& hot) day. Tom was at the motorhome with a new rooftop A/C unit being installed. Teri was doing some cleaning (including getting roofing nails out of the gutters) around the house. Then, it was time to freshen up and meet with family at Gibbons Fine Grill to sing “Happy Birthday” to Teri. We enjoyed a great meal! Family time is always cherished.After returning from our trip through the midwest, and fun times in the Black Hills of South Dakota, it was time to take care of our house, after some damage from the little April tornado. Our fence was blown over from the storm, and it’s now repaired. Some of the shingles from our roof were blown off, and now our roof looks new. Jacob, his father & crew with BlackRock Construction, LLC did an excellent job with our roof shingles & fence repair!During our Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri Midwest Tour & time in South Dakota, our rear rooftop A/C went out on the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. The front rooftop A/C did well to keep us cool, though. Phillip & son, with Country Boy RV Repair mobile service climbed up on top of the RV roof & replaced the rear A/C with a new one. We’re ready for the summer heat.
June 4: Boothill Speedway (Greenwood, La)
Before Tom got into radio, and Tom & Teri were dating, Teri was a senior at Parkway High School when she won Boothill tickets from a Shreveport radio station.After that, we attended the races at Boothill Speedway many times with family.Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were @ Boothill Speedway, joined by former track owner, Roxy Dancy, as Boothill celebrated 50 years of racing. Tom was the track announcer & assisted with judging & scoring for almost 2 decades at Boothill Speedway. Roxy was the first track owner to hire Tom to announce the races.
The races in all of the classes were very competitive & exciting! Teri captured this quick video of the first few laps of the ASCS Elite Non Wing Sprint Car feature event….
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri were joined by (great friend & former track owner) Roxy Dancy for the 50th Anniversary event at Boothill Speedway. Teri had Roxy & Tom pose for a photo at one of the sprint cars in the pits, when we stopped to talk to the crew. It was great to see the Ingalls family (racing & working in the tower), Larry Clevenger, Kenny Tynan, Ronnie Humphrey, Stan the Fan, Diana, former La State Champion Tommy Tullis, the Tuggles & so many folks that we haven’t seen in several years. Large crowd for the night’s races. Great racing! Thanks to Brian for inviting us.Teri was in the stands when she captured a photo of a crowd of folks that played a part of Boothill Speedway’s long (50 year) history. Photo of Tom addressing the large crowd, as Tom praised the efforts of Boothill Speedway’s ownership & staff, the track facility, the racers & the many fans that attend & support the exciting races at the legendary Boothill Speedway . Great crowd in the pits & grandstands! And, we were honored to be a part of this event.
May 18 – 27: Black Hills, South Dakota
You’re invited to check out this 4 minute video that Teri produced of our exciting drive through the 16 mile Needles Highway (great view & tight tunnels) in Custer State Park (Black Hills, SD). Tom was proud of Teri’s effort to put this video together. Thanks to our youngest son, Tim, for his music arrangement. Come along for a ride with us here….
May 24 – Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri drive through the, narrow, Needles Highway and tunnels in Custer State Park, South Dakota.May 24 – Trippin’ w Tom & Teri took a road trip to Mt. Rushmore National Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was an amazing place! We sat a while & enjoyed this grand (& very inspiring) view. People from all over the United States, and from around the world, were among us. We met some very nice folks. A nice lady (from Illinois), who was there w/ her parents, offered to take a photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri & the Presidents on Mt. Rushmore.May 24 – One of many photos that Teri took of Mt. Rushmore, while we sat & enjoyed the view.May 23 – We used up our Deadwood Trolley bus passes, and visited the Deadwood Historic Main Street again. There was a cowboy shootout on the street. We found some souvenirs (that we couldn’t live without) in the main street shops. We paid a visit to Dahl’s Chainsaw Art along main street.We watched the folks displaying their carving skills. There were hundreds of carved items in their lot. Here are a few more photos…May 23 – We stopped to check out the hundreds of wood carvings at Dahl’s Chainsaw Art in Deadwood (SD). Teri on a wild wooden bull ride.May 23 – Tom sits in the Aces & 8s Bill Hickok chair, overlooking the busy Historic Deadwood Main Street. Hundreds of carvings at Dahl’s Chainsaw Art (Deadwood, SD).May 23 – With some remote work to do today, and off & on rain, we decided to spend the day in Deadwood. We used up our trolley passes. The visit to the Adams Museum was fantastic! Lots of displays, and lessons learned, in this place. Very enjoyable and informative! Here are a few more of Teri’s photos from the adventure…May 23 – Adams Museum (excellent!) in Deadwood, South Dakota. May 23 – After reading the description about the steam train, we wondered how they got the train on rails into the old 2 story (w/ a basement) building? May 22 – We found time on Sunday, to visit another place that Teri’s parents used to take their family, when her father was stationed at, nearby, Ellsworth AFB. Pactola Lake is located in the Black Hills National Forest, & is only about 20-30 miles to the south, from the TomsMaHauL motorhome, near Deadwood.May 21 – Lake Pactola in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Beautiful lake! Clean & clear water.May 21 –Leaving South Dakota on I-90 West, heading to Devils Tower, Teri couldn’t resist taking a photo of the Welcome to Wyoming sign.May 21 – When we were near Devils Tower, it started to snow (heavily). We stopped in at Devils Tower Gulch restaurant for buffalo burgers (excellent food, service & overall vibe), until the snow stopped & the sun came out, before rolling into the national park area. Tom wanted several helpings of mashed potatoes, so he could make a Devils Tower on his plate, but we didn’t want to draw too much attention our way.May 21 – Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri near the base of Devils Tower, Wyoming.May 21 – A photo doesn’t do it justice. Being in the national park around the base of Devils Tower is awe inspiring. Amazing experience!Interesting information on one of the signs along the trail to the base of Devils Tower
May 20 – A lot of snow, so we decided to enjoy the day driving down the steep Strawberry Hill to explore the Historic districts of Deadwood & Leads (SD). Teri surprised Tom with this short impromptu video outside of the saloon where Wild Bill Hickok was assassinated…
May 20 – This car caught Tom’s eye when we stopped at Chubby Chipmunk’s in Deadwood. It looks like a car from a Dick Tracy scene. Will Tom be bringing this car back to Louisiana, though? Hmmmm? It has that “Tom look” to it. Don’t ya’ think?
May 19 – We visited the Badlands National Park. Teri is learning a new app, and she put some photos & video pieces that she took, in this short video (below). The music arrangement is from our youngest son, Tim, who has a home recording studio.
May 19 – On our way to Wall Drug & The Badlands (SD), we stopped at Ellsworth Air Force Base (in Box Elder, just east of Rapid City) to check out the South Dakota Air & Space Museum, and Teri’s old house (when she was a child). Lots to see at this place! Lots to learn, too.May 19 – With the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome stationed in the Black Hills, we cruised in the Jeep for a few hours east of Deadwood & Strugis (SD) to Wall Drug. Major attraction! You could spend a whole day in there. People from all over the world stop Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota, Tom was getting stares from folks, as he sat to talk to a bogus saloon girl. Tom will talk to anyone who will listen.May 19 -Not long after Teri took the photo of Tom w/ the bogus saloon girl, we decided to dine at the restaurant area of Wall Drug. We enjoyed buffalo burgers.May 18 –After setting up the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome at Steel Wheel Campground & Trading Post in the Black Hills of South Dakota, we cruised in the Jeep down into, nearby, Deadwood.May 18 -While in Deadwood, we found the Mt Moriah Cemetery (established in 1876). A very interesting place. We found the graves of Wild Bill Hickok & Calamity Jane.Home base for the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome is at Steel Wheel Campground & Trading Post in the Black Hills of South Dakota. We’re spending several days exploring the wonder of this region.
May 17: Chimney Rock, Nebraska
Crazy weather. A severe storm warning for a bit. Some strong wind and dust blew through, but now, it looks like the sun is coming back out. We brought the RV slideouts in, as the RV was rockin’ for about 5 minutes. All good now (hopefully). Teri captured a great photo, as she did a little hiking from (near the campground) to the Chimney Rock.When the TomsMaHauL motorhome pulled into Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing campground, Teri took the (above) photo, before we walked into the office to check in. A Teri selfie along a hiking trail to the Chimney Rock.Teri returning, after a hike to the Chimney RockTom investigated the Chimney Rock Cemetery, as Teri was returning from her hike. The sign says it all
May 16: Alma, Nebraska
As we were entering Nebraska, we spotted a lot of smoke in the distance. We were hoping the highway didn’t turn in that direction. When filling for fuel in Phillipsburg, Tom asked a guy at another gas pump, what all of the smoke was about. We were told that it was a brush fire on a nearby wildlife refuge that got out of control. The wind might have had something to do with it. It was very windy upon our arrival in Alma (NE). No problem driving, as it was a tail wind (that probably saved us some gas)After a smooth ride through Kansas, we arrived at an Army Corp of Engineers campground (Methodist Cove) on Harlan County Lake in Alma, Nebraska. Here’s Tom behind the wheel, backing into our RV spot.We were chillin’ at our RV spot in Alma (NE), and watching the many orioles flying around, along with some other interesting birds. Teri captures a photo of the Harlan County Lake from our RV spot.
May 15: Camp The Range RV Park (Kansas)
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri, along with Bubba DeBossier (our cat) & the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome arrived at Camp The Range RV Park in Wichita, Kansas. While out for a walk around the park, Teri thought this spot would be a good photo opportunity. We encountered some windy driving conditions between McGee Creek (near Antlers, OK) and Wichita (KS). Otherwise, sunny & rather cool upon our arrival. We won’t need the park’s tornado alley storm shelter tonight. We experienced a tornado through our South Bossier neighborhood April 12th, and we’re not interested in going through that again.
May 14: McGee Creek State Park (Oklahoma)
Once we crossed over the Red River into Oklahoma, it was a VERY bumpy ride until we rolled onto the Indian Nation Turnpike to Antlers (OK). We filled the motorhome with gas (OUCH!) in Antlers, and headed 16 miles west to the Buster Hights campground at McGee Creek State Park. Once the RV was settled in our spot, Tom cleaned some La/Tx lovebugs off of the front of the RV, followed by a cruise in the Jeep around the entire park.We enjoyed the late afternoon & evening around the Buster Hights campground, before getting our showers and settling in to prepare for the journey to Wichita, Kansas on Sunday. While on the dam at McGee Creek Lake near our RV spot, Teri snapped this photo. We’ll be back here for an overnight stay on our return trip in a few weeks.
April 22 – 24: Hidden Pines on the Upshur County Side of Lake O’ The Pines (Tx)
Who won today’s Miss Positive Exuberance Award? Here’s the quick story…. We’re at Hidden Pines RV Park in Upshur Country, Texas, near the State Trooper Todd Dylan Holmes Memorial Highway. Teri was excited upon our arrival, so Tom stopped the motorhome to take this photo & declare that Teri is the (undisputed) winner of today’s Miss Positive Exuberance Award.After setting up in our spot at Hidden Pines RV Park on Lake o’ The Pines, we drove the Jeep a quarter mile up Hwy 155 to the Jack Rabbit Grill for the burgers to benefit the Orr City Volunteer Fire Dept. Mr. Jack Rabbit’s wife & daughter teamed up to open this grill in memory of the over-the-road truck driver known as “Jack Rabbit”.Who stops to check out roadside Historical markers? Yep. Tom does. Along Hwy 155 near Hidden Pines RV Park: Tom said “This sign is pointing to a Historical marker. Where is it?” Teri replied “Well, Tom. People that are driving by are looking over and thinking that you are the Historical marker.”Tom found the roadside Historical marker, and studied the information…Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri are on the Upshur County (Tx) side of Lake o’ The Pines. Hidden Pines RV Park Camp Host, John, met us upon our arrival, and said that he had us a better RV spot closer to the lake. We hiked around the property of this nice (new) and quiet, gated, RV park with a high vantage point view of the lake. Teri captured a photo from the park’s pavilion.We enjoyed a ride through the countryside to, nearby, Gilmer & Ore City. We stopped at Venice Pizza in Ore City, & experienced good service & great pizza. Upon returning to the motorhome, it was time for a walk. Tom captures a photo of Teri on another hiking trail around Hidden Pines RV Park on Lake O’ The Pines.
April: Anniversary in Bossier City (La)
We intended to celebrate our 43rd wedding anniversary weekend at a place on the Oklahoma/Arkansas border. This past week’s tornado through South Bossier changed those plans, but we’ll roam in our TomsMaHauL motohome and celebrate next weekend. We’ve weathered some challenging times through the decades, so this was just another one. All good at the house. Just some fence, screen & roof work needed. We dated in high school, and this photo was taken during that time….
April: Lake Hawkins RV Park in Wood County (Tx)
Photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri at one of the thetherball poles at Lake Hawkins RV Park. Tom was too busy being distracted by Teri’s tetherball skills, which lead to Tom getting hit in the face with the tetherball. True story.To kick off April, we returned to one of our favorite places at Lake Hawkins RV Park(Tx). Photos & info from our previous visits to this, wonderful, park HERE .
March – Crawfish Boil in Highland (Shreveport, La)
Great weekend weather for a gathering of friends & family to enjoy a crawfish boil in Highland. Justin (our oldest son) had the tastiest crawfish & fixins in (all of) the entire Sportsman’s Paradise!In the photo: Tom pulling up Justin’s spiced & seasoned boiled-to-perfection crawfish, before the Down Home Meats sausage, corn on the cob & potatoes were added. In the mix, were onions, mushrooms, oranges, lemons, pineapples & more.Our youngest son (Tim) assists our oldest son (Justin), pouring in the 2nd batch of crawfish for boiling.
March – Jefferson, Texas – We’ve been away too long, so it was time to return.
Thanking (wonderful young lady) Hollye for this photo of us enjoying a turkey leg + platter at the Medieval Wine Faire at The KnightLight Theater & Tavern in Jefferson. We had a very enjoyable day at the event, as well as time at Made in the Shade & Angie’s tour of the soon-to-open Art on the Bayou Gallery Jefferson, Texas. Enjoyed the conversation with Shaggy from Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, and visiting Peggy at her golf cart near the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas. It was great to see Laury, Cathy, Frank, Brian & many others, while we were over here. We’ll be back in the area before summer.So, while Tom was waiting for Teri to arrive at the TomsMaHauL motorhome in Jefferson, he enjoying a cup of coffee. Wait just a dadgum minute! Is that Red (dad from That 70s Show) looking at Tom’s mullet? The truth be told – Tom hasn’t had a mullet since the early 80s.Once Teri made it to Jefferson, Trippin w/ Tom & Teri enjoyed a Friday evening dinner at KnightLight Theater & Tavern . It was great to see Brian (of the band SnakeBone) & his wife, along with KnightLight owner, Richard, and our long-time favorite server, Hollye. We returned to KnightLight on Saturday for their Medieval Wine Faire celebration (live music, food, beverages & more). We enjoyed stopping in at many places, and visiting a lot of folks, while in the area.
Visit our “Jefferson, Texas” Journal page with photos, video & more, from previous visits to this area HERE
March – Judging Shriners Childrens Hospital Chili Cookoff Benefit on Lake Bistineau (La)
Perfect weather at Our Place Bar & Grill on Lake Bistineau. We enjoyed the time visiting with friends & many of the Shriners Chili Cookoff competitors. While we were over the lake, at the end of the long boat dock, it was time for one of Teri’s video reports…
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March – Bodcau Shooting Range
The weather was too good to pass up a mid-day visit to the shooting range in the Bodcau (La) Wildlife Management Area. Tom manages to capture a few photos of Teri with her Smith & Wesson 380 M&P Shield EZ pistol. 50 shots were fired & Teri hit the diamond (center) of the target several times & well within the target area every other time. We want to thank Jay (U.S. Marine veteran & soon-to-be proud father of a baby boy) for sharing his shooting tips.
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February – Our Destin Journey
Teri’s “Trippin’ w/ Tom & Report” on I-10 West at the Mobile (Al) tunnel….
A TomsMaHauL report from Destin, Florida. We’re trying to keep Tom from getting thrown out of places that we go. So. Tom said “This guy needs to be tested”. And, this caused some on-lookers to think to themselves – “dammit Tom. You ain’t right”….
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January – More on The Rougarou During A Visit to The Tom Merrill Recreation Area (La)
The TomsMaHauL motorhome did some winter RVing in the woods at the Bodcau (La) Campground in the Tom Merrill Recreation Area.Photo of our Bodcau campground RV spot: After arriving & setting up in our camping spot, Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri drove across the Bodcau Dam to the shooting range (very nice). We made plans to stop by the shooting range during business hours on the following day. There was very weak cell service in our camping spot, but Tom discovered that a 60 second drive to the nearby tent camping area was a good spot to get online & share, and check our messages.
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri “We Are Here” Video Report:Can you say “RouxGaRoux”? Tom had to climb up on top of a tall pine tree to get a signal to post Teri’s video report from one of the hiking trails at Bodcau (La). Here’s where Tom provides the proper pronounciation of the RouxGaRoux (that’s how Tom prefers to spell it).……
The Rougarou (some say that is the proper spelling), kindly, took a photo of Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri on one of the hiking trails at Bodcau (La).More on the legend of the Rougarou HEREIt was a cold Saturday morning on Bayou Bodcau (La), after the overnight low was 26 degrees. Nice & warm in the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome. Teri said “Is chicken & Down Home sausage gumbo okay for breakfast?”. Tom’s reply was “You dang sho nuff got dat right!”. When Teri makes gumbo, we only use our favorite green onion flavored sausages from Down Home Meats.
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January – Chevy Time!
A Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri Video: After the work week, it was time for a Saturday afternoon cruise in the ’69 Chevelle. Teri drove out to Our Place Bar & Grill (Lake Bistineau), and Tom was behind the wheel for the return trip to South Bossier City. Here we are approaching Hwy 527…
After getting the Chevelle home from Nobody Customs & Restorations (Keithville, La) last Monday, it was time to get out on the road. A cool & sunny Saturday inspired us to cruise in the Chevy to Our Place Bar & Grill (Lake Bistineau) for a couple of A+ cheeseburgers. We’ll look ahead to our next Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri TomsMaHauL.com motorhome journey in the ArkLaTexbefore the end of January.Photo from Keithville (La), as we picked up our ’69 Chevelle on January 17th. We missed our Chevy over the past few months. It’s kind of like part of the family. The folks at Nobody Customs & Restorations received the parts, and their crew went to work on some upgrades. Teri drove the Chevy through Shreveport, and back to South Bossier, where we put a fresh inspection sticker on it at Smith’s Towing & Recovery (Barksdale Blvd). So, we’re legal & the car is cruisin’.Our ’69 Chevelle engine had some upgrades done at Nobody Customs & Restorations . Other tasks on the Chevy were taken care of, and we’ll bring the car back in April for a new AC unit + power brakes upgrade (& a few other minor upgrades). Between now & April, though, you may see Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri on the road with our Chevy (on this side of the levee).
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Recent Journeys
December 30 – New Years Day:Wright Patman Lake @ Rocky Point Campground
After leaving Lake Hawkins RV Park on Dec 30, the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome rolled through the East Texas countryside to Rocky Point (Lake Wright Patman) Dec 30 – Jan 1.Video & photos from past visits to Wright Patman Lake HEREWe enjoyed a New Years Eve dinner at Pop’s Place in Texarkana, followed by a quick stop by the TomsMaHauL.com motorhome, before going to MJ’s Bar & Pizzeria (Domino, Tx), with Stone Blue rockin’ the stage.We were greeted by a very welcoming staff at MJ’s Bar & Pizzeria (Domino, Tx) for New Years Eve. A large spread of food provided by MJ’s & Stone Blue. Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri danced to the great selection of songs, and enjoyed the conversation with the band + sound & light/effects technicians.
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December 27 – 30:Lake Hawkins RV Park (Wood County, Texas)
Lake Hawkins RV Park website HERE. Lake Hawkins RV Park facebook HERE The week after Christmas, our first stop was at Lake Hawkins RV Park. With temperatures near 80 degrees, we enjoyed a lasagna dinner on the patio at the Taste Of Italy On the Lake restaurant & explored the Lake Hawkins area. Each evening, the “Fire Queen” (Teri) had the fire pit blazing, where we enjoyed conversations with some of our camping neighbors. Photos & info from some previous stays at Lake HawkinsHERE
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December (a few weekends before Christmas): Enjoying Time in Jefferson
Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri browsed many stores in Jefferson, & found several items on our Christmas shopping lists. While strolling around town Saturday evening, Teri decided this would be a perfect spot to do one of her quick TomsMaHauL.com Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri video productions & presentation……
A few weekends before Christmas: When driving on the Big Cypress Bayou highway bridge into Historic downtown Jefferson, the lights on the old timey train bridge can be seen. Teri captures a photo of the lighted bridge from the park that leads down to the bank of the bayou.Decisions-decisions! Teri captures a photo of Tom trying to decide which flavor of tasty (real) crickets to get (sour cream & onion, or bacon & cheese)? Since Tom couldn’t decide, he chose to ponder on it, while enjoying a milk shake at the bar in the Jefferson General Store – Jefferson, Texas . The real question now is, who’s getting flavored dead crickets in their Christmas stockings?Tom is acting, as if, you’ll believe that he’s REALLY serious. The folks at City Hall in Jefferson knew better, when Tom walked in. Tom has his “investigation” hat on. Since, some claim that places in Jefferson are haunted, Tom said “I’ll be looking for the ghost of Chris Farley, in a van down by the river, while our motorhome is near the Big Cypress Bayou”.
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November 24 – 27:Thanksgiving With Family Around The Swamps & Bayous In Deep South Louisiana
Teri’s video of a bell tower, as we strolled through the Brownell Memorial Park (Morgan City) near Lake Palourde around the Atchafalaya basin & south Louisiana swamps & bayous.A Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri photo @ the Southwest Reef Lighthouse in Berwick (La), near the Atchaflaya Bay (close to the deep south Louisiana swamps & Gulf Coast).When the South Louisiana Gulf Coast hurricanes cause flooding surges in the Morgan City area, the big steel gates, like the one you see in the center of the photo, are closed on the flood wall to protect ares of the city.
Here’s Teri with a quick report from Highway 90 South, as we’re rolling to Berwick/Morgan City, Louisiana. While we were on a TomsMaHauL.com journey below I-10 in deep south Louisiana, there was the view of smoke around us, as we passed many sugar cane fields that were being burned.
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November 12 – 15:Attending The Beginning of Christmas Season Events Around Gladewater, Longview & Kilgore
The TomsMaHauL.com motorhome returned to Antique Capital RV Park in Gladewater. We roamed the area in the Jeep to several events to open the Thanksgiving & Christmas season. Quoting John Wayne from the movie “McLintock” + a Jerry Lee Lewis song: “pilgrim you caused a lot of trouble this morning. There’s a “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On”. The bedroom propane furnace heat quit working on a cold (34 degrees) Friday night. The front furnace worked, as well as the electic heaters. All good.Friday night, the rear motorhome furnace wasn’t working. Overnight low was 34. On Saturday afternoon, Phillip, w/ Country Boy RV Repair stopped by while he was in the area, and after some trouble-shooting, the issue was solved. We’re thankful that Phillip worked us into his busy schedule. Tom enjoyed the conversation & learning a few things about RV propane furnaces.
We enjoyed a beautiful Saturday at Grumpy’s Garden Party (Union Grove, Tx). Teri bought some items from various booths, including plants, necklace & a few other things. Tom enjoyed a few items from the food trucks & talking to Grumpy (property owner, Steve, who is not really grumpy at all). We toured an old-timey chapel and listened to an outdoor show with Harvest Moon Countrygrass. Teri thought it was time for a new Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri video.Shame on Tom. In this photo, Tom forgot to take off his “Moon & the Starz” cap during the old chapel tour at Grumpy’s Garden Club. This chapel isn’t much different than the one that we got married in (over 42 years ago) at Barksdale Air Force Base. It was an enjoyable early afternoon, with live music, vendors & food in Union Grove, Texas. Steve (aka Grumpy) was interesting to listen to (Tom asked him many questions). Grumpy is a man that loves his unique garden property.
Teri’s video of the downtown Kilgore lighting of the derricks for Christmas season. These are just the derricks in front of us. There are many other derricks that were a part of the lighting ceremony. Huge crowd! The live music, famous Kilgore Rangerettes , arts & crafts & food trucks were enjoyed by all.Downtown Gladewater was a happening place, and we enjoyed the time. Most of the folks in this area are always so friendly & welcoming. The festival & derrick lighting ceremony for Christmas season in Kilgore, was a very enjoyable evening.Who stops to read road-side Historical markers? Tom does that a lot. This was a marker describing the world’s richest acre in Kilgore.
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October 28:BPCC Ribbon Cutting & Lady Cavaliers Softball Game
While Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri had the TomsMaHauL motorhome in the barn this week, we attended a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate field lights & new locker rooms for the Bossier Parish Community College Lady Cavaliers. The Lady Cavs had an incredible (record breaking) season in the Spring, and as part of the October ribbon cutting ceremony, the Lady Cavs played Centenary College in a Fall fast pitch softball game.
Look closely. We believe you’ll agree that the two biggest smiles at the ribbon cutting, were from BPCC Chancellor, Rick Bateman, (next to scissor holder Foster Campbell) and Lady Cavs Head Coach, Amanda Nordberg (3rd from the left).Teri captures a photo of Tom, BPCC Lady Cavs Head Coach Amanda Nordberg & BPCC Vice Chancellor, Karen Recchia, before a tour of the new BPCC Lady Cavaliers locker room. While BPCC Lady Cavaliers Head Coach, Amanda Nordberg & Tom were discussing the finer points of fast pitch softball in the new Lady Cavs locker room, Teri decided it was time for another photo. Tom told some others that, after the incredible Lady Cavs season in 2021, Coach Nordberg has proven herself as a great team leader of very smart & talented softball players.Assistant BPCC softball coach is Curt Williams.
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony & tour of the new locker room, it was time to check out the new field lights. The crowd enjoyed a great performance of the National Anthem by the Bossier Parish Community College Concert Choir. Then, it was game time! Below is a Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri TomsMaHauL.com report during the game.
When Teri made this video, the score was 2-1, but The Lady Cavs ended up winning the game. Final score, 14-1.
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October 22 – 24 : Halloween Shady Lady Dances & Time Along The Bayou
After arriving in our RV spot at Pine Island RV Park, we walked through the woods, and across the road, for a dinner on the deck at Big Pines Lodge, overlooking the Big Cypress Bayou.Teri had a catfish plate, and Tom enjoyed “a big ol’ juicy cheesburger” (plate). The cornbread, cole slaw & fixins were good. Tom went to the ice cream machine & prepared some ice cream cones for Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri. Teri got some Fitbit steps logged, as we walked back to the motorhome.While Trippin’ w/ Tom & Teri had the motorhome stationed @ Pine Island near Caddo Lake, we enjoyed a dinner at The KnightLight Theater restaruant & tavern in Jefferson, before attending the Shady Ladies Halloween witch dances at Made In the Shade (to benefit Shriners Childrens Hospital). Thanks to a young fan that took this photo after we dined at KnightLight.A customer at Made in the Shade captured a photo of Teri & Tom w/ one of the Shady Ladies (wonderful lady Peggy) before the dance began.Teri captured the Shady Ladies dancing to “I Put A Spell On You” A large crowd gathered to support the Shady Ladies dancing at Made in the Shade to benefit Shriners Hospital For Children (Shreveport).
Teri enjoyed making video proof (2 videos) that Tom dances with Shady Ladies: One of the Shady Ladies Halloween witches at Made in the Shade (Jefferson) found Tom & lead him out to dance to one of the songs. The Shady Ladies do their Halloween witch dances on weekends throughout October every year, and this year it was to benefit the Shriners Hospital for Children (Shreveport).
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We welcome you to check out some of the places that we enjoy exploring around the ArkLaTex region and… beyond the outer parameter. Visit our Journal page HERE
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You’re Trippin’ With Tom & Teri. Our location is a space in time. No matter where you go, there you are, and at the moment, We Are HERE.
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Tom shares some of our motorhome preparation, maintenance & projects…along with expecting the unexpected. Visit our Projects page HERE
