Thanksgiving Week we had the privilege of camping with our friends, Wendi and Bob, and his parents. What a treat for us, as they are very fun people. Rain Spirit RV, in Clarkdale, Arizona, is where they picked. We were able to camp in sites next to each other so going back and forth to each trailer was easy.
Before we left Apache Junction, Arizona, Kevin and I went to Queen Creek Oil Mill. We had visited there last year and bought some olive oil. We like to see where things are actually made and yes, the olives are grown here and made into olive oil. As soon as we walked in a young gal named Jaiden came over. Kevin started to tell her “My wife is deaf…” and she stopped him and started signing American Sign Language! She is an ASL interpreter, just needing her last test done. That was so cool! He sat back and let us chat. HA You can take a tour of this place and next time we come, I will request Jaiden as she said she would be happy to be my interpreter for the tour.
On Sunday, the 6 of us rode on Verde Canyon Railroad. The day was very rainy. I thought the rain added to the dramatic colors of the canyon on our ride.
Months ago, after our tickets were purchased, I contacted Verde Canyon Railroad to see what “reasonable accommodations” they have for the deaf. I got a quick reply that they would give me a book with information about each mile marker. That was great. It is a thick magazine type book with a lot of history and information that I assume the employees shared with the passengers while on the train. It was so great for me to be able to read and know what was going on. Thankful! They get an A!
Below, Wendi’s Picture: Kevin and Charla getting ready for the train ride. Interesting sign board.
Kevin enjoys looking out the window of the train:
Back at camp, Bob braved the rain and grilled for us but we ate inside. The week was relaxing made up of Wendi and I sewing, lots of grilled food, visiting, and walking around town. Next post I will share about our day in Jerome, AZ.
*The blog posts are taken from my daily travel journal. Would you believe – it takes me a 1/2 day every week to whittle down a week’s worth of journal so it won’t be too long for the post each week. HAHA Thank you for reading!
Travel Means Life 
I enjoyed reading this. The train ride looks fun, how long is it? Queen Creek OliveMill is already on my list for next year.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The train ride is 2 hours, out and back. They also provide a box snack – think charcuterie board.
When you go to Queen Creek Olive Mill, I suggest schedule the tour. I think it is $12, but not sure. We haven’t done it yet but will with the interpreter next time. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
We rode the Verde Canyon RR towards the end of Jan, 2012. I remember the beautiful red rock along the way. I’m happy you got to experience it too, Charla! At the time of our visit, there was a woman near the train station who had a trained falcon, as well as some other birds. Do they still have that as well? I remember Clarkdale as being an interesting and fun town. I’m going to have to look at my photos from that trip and refresh more of my memories. 😊
LikeLike
I would think anyone would enjoy looking out the window on that Verde Canyon railroad! And I am happy they were able to provide the information for you. It sounds like you had a very nice time with friends and with a lot of time for sewing! I look forward to your next post, Charla!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your nice words. We had a grand time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a fun activity. I’ll have to add that to my list for when we’re in that area. Thanks for the info!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are most welcome. I am so happy you are traveling.
LikeLike
What a fun trip! Olive oil, time with friends, and a train ride all sound great to me! I’m glad you found someone who speaks ASL at the olive oil place, that’s really cool. 😎
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it was really neat to meet up with someone who knows American Sign Language. I often have people sign to me that they know a little ASL. I am always so thrilled that they are brave enough to sign with me, even if they just know a few signs. I thank them profusely, as I am grateful for any communication. So sweet.
LikeLiked by 1 person