BCCA Specialty & Other US Wanders - October 5-27, 2023

This trip has been in the plans since the location of the Bearded Collie Club of America National Specialty was announced at the 2022 National Specialty in Virginia Beach, VA.

Our original plans had us only getting to Michigan around the 10th since friends were supposed to be visiting from Florida on the days immediately before the specialty. Plans for the event driving the visit were cancelled as was their trip so we were able to leave early to watch the herding and help at the agility events.

As in the past, once the specialty was over, we planned to wander for a while - so we did.

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Contents

Day 1 - October 5, 2023 - A "Between Day" Dinner

Rod got back from A Dog Show Trip to US October 3rd in time to celebrate our 48th anniversary on the 4th. Lillian's birthday was coming up on the 6th so today is "Between Day" which we have often used to celebrate both events. This year we decided to head off on our planned trip and stop for the night at: Brighton / 401 KOA Holiday which left us handy to The Golden Valley Restaurant and Grill near Trenton, ON. Their prime rib roast is always excellent and suitable for celebration.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	426.2 KM
Average Fuel:	15.6 L/100KM
Time On Road:	5:25
😞No pictures for Day 1

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Day 2 - October 6, 2023 - Off to Michigan

Off to the main event! We crossed the border at Sarnia rather than Windsor. No big issues heading into the United States, mostly since the galley was pretty empty.

Once over the border, we made our way to Hell Creek Campground where we planned to stay for the herding days. It was minutes away from SheepSmith Farm where the herding events were being held.

Before settling in for the night, we dropped over to Busch's Food Market in Pinckney to start restocking.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	641.9 KM
Average Fuel:	14.7 L/100KM
Time On Road:	8:12
😞No pictures for Day 2

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Day 3 - October 7, 2023 - Herding Day 1

Today is day 1 of BCCA 2023 National Specialty Herding being held at SheepSmith Farm. We arrived about 9:30 with events already under way. We were made welcome by the folks involved and caught up with our friends Tom & Lucy. In spite of damp, chilly and windy weather, it was an interesting day.

We were also invited to join the gang for the annual Drovers' Dinner at the Block Brewing Company. Not having any better plans, we did.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	58.6 KM
Average Fuel:	18.1 L/100KM
Time On Road:	1:52
📸Click for pictures from Day 3

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Day 4 - October 8, 2023 - Herding Day 2

Back to SheepSmith Farm for another day of ducks, sheep and beardies. Enjoy the pictures and videos!

At the end of the day we set off for Pine Ridge RV Campground which is near the specialty site in Frankenmuth. Our reservations at the Bavarian Inn only start tomorrow so we are camping here.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	118.6 KM
Average Fuel:	16.3 L/100KM
Time On Road:	1:54
📸Click for pictures from Day 4 📹Click for videos from Day 4

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Day 5 - October 9, 2023 - Agility Day 1

Today we are off to All Dogs Can, LLC in Lapeer, MI. for day 1 of the agility competition. Since we did not know we were going to be able to be here, we had no entries for the day so, of course, Rod volunteered to help where needed. Since they were a bit short of volunteers, he had plenty to help with.

It is always great fun to watch a bunch of beardies doing agility. They are enthusiastic participants and look amazing with their coats flying as they race around the course. We got some good pictures and videos when not working.

The day wrapped up with a relay competition with a bunch of tunnels. We had to leave once the course was set up since we needed to check in to Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth. We also needed to starte getting set up over at Harvey Kern Pavilion where the rest of the events were being held.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	136.2 KM
Average Fuel:	17.8 L/100KM
Time On Road:	3:33
📸Click for pictures from Day 5 📹Click for videos from Day 4

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Day 6 - October 10, 2023 - Agility Day 2

While chatting with Tom & Lucy yesterday we decided to have Lillian hang around Frankenmuth with the dogs while Rod hitched a ride to the Agility venue. For Rod, it was even more of a working day since he had the time. Tom also helped out with most of the ring reconfigurations. Rod also did in ring roles except when Lucy had dogs competing.

It was a busy but fun day. Not as many pictures and only one video. Lucy's gang did very well. They had a table with lots on raffle for workers. You got 2 tickets for each session you worked and placed them in containers to bid on the various lots. Rod missed the drawings on the first day having left early so all tickets went into the second day. He made off with all kinds of goodies.

Back at Harvey Kern Pavilion, it was time for the Welcome Party.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	Roadtrek Parked
Average Fuel:
Time On Road:
📸Click for pictures from Day 6 📹Click for videos from Day 6

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Day 7 - October 11, 2023 - Obedience, Rally and Veterans Sweepstakes

Today started with the Obedience Trial. Tom & Rod both conscripted into stewarding so too busy to take any pictures. The Rally Obedience Trial followed. Rod had Josie entered in Rally Advanced so that was the focus. We did not qualify due to a handler error. Part of the risk of jumping up a level but we finished Rally Intermediate in PA and even got one Rally Advanced leg there so it was worth a try.

The evening we all dressed up for the Veterans' Sweepstakes. It is always nice to see some of the great older dogs. Food and some "adult beverages" helped the party atmosphere.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	12 KM
Average Fuel:	50 L/100KM
Time On Road:	0:14
📸Click for pictures from Day 7 📹Click for videos from Day 7

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Day 8 - October 12, 2023 - Puppy Sweepstakes and Class Judging

Today the "class dogs" have their time. First was the puppy sweepstakes. Lyra was entered in the 12-15 month class. She did well in the ring but her handler (Rod) needed much improvement.

The main breed show judged by Nicolas Broadbridge now begins. The afternoon brought the class dogs (Puppy 6-9 Mo., Puppy 9-12 Mo., Junior 12-15 Mo., Junior 15-18 Mo., Bred By Exhibitor, American Bred and Open) with the boys first and the girls after. Lyra was entered in American Bred rather than Junior 12-15 to keep her separate from her sister. Anna Gracie did an expert job presenting her but so big achievements.

That evening we went to Prost! Wine Bar & Charcuterie since there we no special events on.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	0.9 KM
Average Fuel:	50 L/100KM
Time On Road:	0:11
📸Click for pictures from Day 8 📹Click for videos from Day 8

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Day 9 - October 13, 2023 - Best of Breed

The big day. After Junior Showmanship and a few "Baby Puppies", the serious judging began with the veteran dogs and bitches. Then the Best of Breed judging with all the dogs that already achieved their championship are join by Winners Dog and Winners Bitch from the class judging and Veteran Dog and Veteran Bitch to determine Best of Breed.

Josie was being handled by Rod and made the first cut but did not get much further. For those who want the results, check out BCCA 2023 Specialty Results

After some packing up we gathered at the Ratskeller Cafe at the Bavarian Inn Lodge for the annual awards dinner and judges comments.

We did some packing and relaxed a bit and were preparing to head to Lorelei Lounge for a snack and some "adult beverages" when we heard from Tom & Lucy who had the same objective so we gathered there along with Lucy's daughter Anna for a pleasant wind-down even with good food, folks, drinks and music.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	0.9 KM
Average Fuel:	50 L/100KM
Time On Road:	0:11
📸Click for pictures from Day 9

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Day 10 - October 14, 2023 - Off to Indianapolis

The specialty being all wrapped up for another year, we are all heading home or elsewhere. In our case, we have decided to wander towards some warmth. For a first leg, we set sail for the Indianapolis KOA Holiday in Greenfield, IN. It was 9°C as we left Frankenmuth. We stopped for late breakfast at a Cracker Barrel in Lansing, MI.

We also picked up a 2lb pack of their bacon. Carcker Barrel is one of the reliable sources of bacon when travelling south of the border. We also discovered they have "$5 Take Home Meals" When you buy a meal in the restaurant. We tried a "Smokey Grilled Chicken & Mashed Potatoes" and "Meatloaf & Mac n' Cheese". They later became a nice easy dinner.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	516.8 KM
Average Fuel:	14.0 L/100KM
Time On Road:	5:40
📸Click for pictures from Day 10

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Day 11 - October 15, 2023 - Down to Nashville

Warmer this morning. 11°C. Our destination today is https://koa.com/campgrounds/nashville-east/ Nashville East / Lebanon KOA Journey. This is a nice day's drive further south. While Nashville is more of a way point on this trip rather than a "destination", we plan to do a bit of touring en passant.

We arrived around 3 PM and shopped for some food and beverage before settling in for the night.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	510.6 KM
Average Fuel:	13.6 L/100KM
Time On Road:	5:55
😞No pictures for Day 11

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Day 12 - October 16, 2023 - Country Music Hall of Fame

After some preliminary shopping, we paid our entry and set off to enjoy the exhibits. It was a most interesting exhibit and we had no problem losing several hours strolling through the years. While we were familiar with many of the artists over the years we were amazed by some who had large exhibits that we had never encountered.

After our tour through, the "chief shopper" visited more of the shops and made a few acquisitions. While walking back to the van we passed the local Margaritaville but resisted the temptation to drop in.

After touring around a number of Nashville landmarks including the Ryman Auditorium, we hit the road for Lookout Mountain / Chattanooga West KOA Holiday which was just over the Georgia border.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	247.0 KM
Average Fuel:	14.4 L/100KM
Time On Road:	3:11
📸Click for pictures from Day 12

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Day 13 - October 17, 2023 - Florida and Warmth At Last

Still not warm this morning. 11°C. Still a degree warmer in Pointe-Claire and we are all the way down to Georgia. No sense mucking about. We are heading to Florida. To be specific, we are heading to Tarpon Springs to visit our friends Peter & Gail - the ones who did not make it to Pointe-Claire at the beginning of the month.

We decided to split the drive in to segments. For tonight we headed for Jennings KOA Holiday which is just over the Georgia / Florida border.

We arrived about 4:30 PM. Since we were handy to the laundry, Lillian jumped on the opportunity and got ours caught up. Even better, the temperature was over 20°C at last! The had a nice dog run so we let the girls have some exercise.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	610.7 KM
Average Fuel:	14.0 L/100KM
Time On Road:	6:22
📸Click for pictures from Day 13 📹Click for videos from Day 13

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Day 14 - October 18, 2023 - On to Tarpon Springs

As we moved south we have been sending out periodic emails to folks we wanted to keep up to date on our movements. This included our friends Peter and Gail in Tarpon Springs. As our plans firmed up we made more specific contact to ensure they were available and interested in a visit.

As we set off about 9:45 AM the temperature was still up at 17°C. We had an unevenyful drive using some secondary roads and arrived at Hickory Point RV Park around 2 PM.

Once we checked in for a couple of days, we went shopping for some edibles and potables. We also stopped at an auto parts store to get a bulb for the license plate light which the Roadtrek was complaining about. Good to have the part but not a panic since only one of twp lights was out.

We were back at camp by 3:30 PM so we relaxed to enjoy a warm afternoon. Rod took the dogs for a tour of the park and let them have a run in the dog run.

Peter and Gail picked us up at 6 PM and, after letting the beardies say hello, we set off for Cypress Run Golf Club where it was Prime Rib night in the dining room. We had a nice evening catching up and set a date for dinner at their place tomorrow. They dropped us back at camp about 9:30 PM where we got a good night after feeding and walking the dogs

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	336.9 KM
Average Fuel:	14.4 L/100KM
Time On Road:	4:39
📸Click for pictures from Day 14

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Day 15 - October 19, 2023 - Tarpon Springs Day 2

We spent a quiet day at camp mostly grooming the beardies. It was a good thing Lillian got the laundry caught up when we were at Jennings since the laundry here was closed. We took some nice walks around the camp and let the dogs have some time in the run.

We were picked up around 5:30 PM. We made an attempt at the pharmacy they used to get a couple of extra synthroids for Lillian with no luck. We got to their house about 6:15 PM where we were well fed on grilled steaks, interesting salads and other treats. We also enjoyed several more hours of catching up.

We told them we were heading over to Madiera Beach tomorrow before heading back north. Like the last visit, they agreed to join us for the day so we could all visit some old haunts. We got back to Hickory Point about 11:30 PM after a delightful evening. The hairy members of the family were delighted to see us back.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version <
Distance:	Roadtrek Parked
Average Fuel:
Time On Road:
📸Click for pictures from Day 15

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Day 16 - October 20, 2023 - Down to St. Petersburg / Madiera Beach

We got rolling about 10:30 after a good breakfast from the galley and a last run for the beardie girls. It only took an hour to get to St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA Holiday where we checked in then decided to wander Gulf Boulevard for a while from Reddington Shores to Treasure Island. We got back to camp around 1:15 PM and took the dogs for a nice wander.

Peter & Gail picked us up at 2:30 PM and we made our way to John's Pass Village & Boardwalk. We have been visiting this location periodically for 40 years and like to see the current evolution.

After some shopping and wandering, we stopped at a pub for some drinks and snacks then continued our touring until about 5:40 PM when we set course for The Conch Republic Grill This building used to house the Ballyhoo Grill previously who had a similar menu and was an old favourite. has filled the role well based on the last couple of visits.

We were back around camp by 10 PM.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	90.5 KM
Average Fuel:	16.3 L/100KM
Time On Road:	2:32
📸Click for pictures from Day 16

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Day 17 - October 21, 2023 - North to Georgia

Normally when we turn north from here we head to Savannah South KOA Holiday but it was booked full which is unusual this time of year. Instead we booked a night at Jacksonville North / St. Marys KOA Holiday which was just over the Georgia border on I95.

We were on the road before 10:30 AM and had a pleasant drive north. We reached our destination around 3 PM so we had time to relax. They had a food truck in for the evening so we tried one of their dishes. We found it too greasy so we found some dinner in the galley.

We let the girls have a run in the "KampK9 Dog Park" and took a good walk around the site. They had some music going as part of their early Halloween celebrations.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	400.7 KM
Average Fuel:	14.2 L/100KM
Time On Road:	4:55
📸Click for pictures from Day 17

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Day 18 - October 22, 2023 - Myrtle Beach

We set off before 8:30 heading for Myrtle Beach, one of our favourite stops this time of year. It is off season so they are happy to see us and things are not crowded but most things are open.

We started on I95 but eventually peeled off on 17 to enjoy a more casual and direct route. We got to Myrtle Beach KOA Resort at 3:40 PM. We checked in and spent 1/2 hour getting a bit set up then we headed off to Broadway at the Beach. The "Chief Shopper" set out to check out some of her favourite shops while Rod took the dogs around for some exercise and socialization. Once the shopping imperitive had worn down we put the pups back in the RV and popped in to Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville for their signature beverage and shared a plate of chicken wings. After a brief stop in their shop, we found our way back to camp by 8 PM.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	500.3 KM
Average Fuel:	13.8 L/100KM
Time On Road:	6:51
📸Click for pictures from Day 18

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Day 19 - October 23, 2023 - A Return to Fancy Gap, VA

We wanted our route home to pass through Phoenix, MD so we could celebrate Tom's birthday a bit early. Our Rx supply would not carry us all the way but we could come close. Now the decision was whether we continue up to Virginia Beach or head inland and pick up I81 and save a lot of traffic.

We decided to head in to Fancy Gap / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA Journey which we enjoyed last year. While we miss out on the seafood around Virginia Beach, we get to enjoy Dave's home made BBQ sandwiches.

We set off about 9:30 AM. Around noon we stopped at The Berry Patch for some milk shakes made from home made ice cream.

We got to Fancy Gap around 2:40 PM and did a bit of shopping before getting to camp a bit after 3 PM. We ordered a pulled pork and a brisket sandwich for 6:30 PM and went to relax for a bit. After dinner we had the first campfire of the trip.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	426.0 KM
Average Fuel:	15.1 L/100KM
Time On Road:	5:20
📸Click for pictures from Day 19

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Day 20 - October 24, 2023 - Up To Maryland

We were on the road before 9 AM. A brisk 8°C this morning up here in the hills. We popped off the highway near Natural Bridge to visit Layne's Country Store since we knew that the stocked most Rada Cutlery products. We wanted to pick up a couple of their "Party Spreaders".

We maintained pretty steady progress arriving at Lucy & Tom's just after 4 PM. Tom was busy so Rod & Lucy took off to Cockeysville to pick up the Transit. They were having tire valve extensions put on to facilitate checking and inflating the double rear tires. We also gassed up the Transit which Rod drove back while Lucy returned in the Suburban. We took varied routes but met from opposite directions and the end of the driveway.

We let the beardies out to romp with their hairy family and caught up on happenings since Frankenmuth. For supper we decided on a return to Casa Mia's Restaurant since Lillian had not been there and Rod wanted to revisit their mussels. We headed off about 7 PM arriving about 7:30. Worthy of note, Lillian ordered their lasagna which was huge. We were back at Stockton Road before 10 PM and were happy to crash once all the beardies had been cycled out.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	633.0 KM
Average Fuel:	13.8 L/100KM
Time On Road:	6:49
📸Click for pictures from Day 20

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Day 21 - October 25, 2023 - Hanging Around Stockton Road

Today we just hung around Stockton Road. We trained, bathed and groomed dogs. We ate a bunch of leftovers for lunch including Lillian's Lasagna from last night split 3 ways.

We also counted our meds and figured we could stay until Friday meaning we could go to herding class tomorrow. Excellent!

We needed to be on the road by 7:30 AM so we retired at a decent hour after outing and feeding the pack.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version <
Distance:	Roadtrek Parked
Average Fuel:
Time On Road:
📸Click for pictures from Day 21

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Day 22 - October 26, 2023 - A Herding Adventure

We were up early and were getting ready for the day's expedition. Since it was going to be a long day, we were bringing the whole pack so we would need two vehicles. We were planning to take the Roadtrek but Lucy suggested we leave the RV set up and take the Suburban. We did not fight the idea.

We were rolling just after 7:40 AM which should have been ample time but we encountered some unexpected, construction-induced traffic so we arrived shortly after 10:00.

Henry was first and was working about 10 sheep and was having a grand time. They then changed to 3 sheep and Lucy worked a couple of the others. Then the time with the instructor was up but we were still able to work with the sheep.

Lucy had previously tried Josie on sheep back when she was on her "show tour" last fall and wanted to try her again. We put her on a long line just to be safe but Lucy dropped and let it drag early on. Her focus on the sheep was largely good though she seemed distracted once or twice. We suspect she heard Tom and Rod mumbling in the distance.

Lucy was feeling especially brave and decided to give Lyra a try. Tom and Rod got banished behind some hay bales so less pictures and videos. The "wild child" settled in well and decidedly tuned in to the sheep. Definitely good instinct passed down from her parents.

All around, a good session! After letting the rest of the gang have some time out, we headed out just after noon. After getting some gas, we headed to Mario's Pizza in Berryville, VA. After a good lunch we set course back to Stockton Road. We arrived within minutes of each other around 4:15 PM.

For dinner we headed over to their golf club where we had a nice meal together and toasted Tom's birthday a couple of days early. A great visit to wrap up our trip.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version <
Distance:	Roadtrek Parked
Average Fuel:
Time On Road:
📸Click for pictures from Day 22 📹Click for videos from Day 22

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Day 23 - October 27, 2023 - Rolling Home

It was a race to see who could get on the road first. Tom, Lucy and the beardie gang were heading to a show with an early ring time. We wanted to get home by dark. They were gone before dawn. We left shortly later at 6:53 AM.

We made steady progress and by 3 PM we were stopping at Starbucks in Brockville for a caffine fix. While Lillian got the coffees, Rod gave the dogs a quick walk so we would be able to stop to pick up our Rx which were waiting for us before we got home.

This is what we did. We got to our pharmacy at 5:25 PM and home by 5:52. Since we had stripped the Roadtrek galley for crossing the border and had little left at home, Rod went up to Côte St-Luc BAR-B-Q about 7 PM pick up some comfort food.

The Numbers For Today			Click Map For Larger Version
Distance:	907.3 KM
Average Fuel:	13.8 L/100KM
Time On Road:	10:21
😞No pictures for Day 23

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The Numbers For The Trip