Alcoa

It has rained continuously since yesterday at 5 p.m., from Dade City, Florida, to Knoxville, Tennessee. Driving through some torrential downpours was a test. The tires and steering handled great. Just a little water leaked through the closed fan vent on the roof. I'll start my fix-it list now. Should at least have the seals checked out.

I bought this camper van new, not quite 11 months ago. Now, with over 14,000 miles on her, she's been broken in for sure. Most RVs have kinks to be worked out in the first year, but Lil' Miss and I have been especially challenged, I'd say. Of the 11 months, she has spent three
whole months in service. She has a new air compressor, new battery, new lithium battery, and many other new parts. For over two months while waiting on parts, she sat completely dead. This meant I had to reset all the settings prior to this trip. I picked her up from the dealership less than two weeks ago. It feels like a reunion of sorts being back together again. Lil' Miss, I'm happy we're reunited.

I love driving the van. I actually find it easier to drive than my Toyota. I love the visibility, sitting up high, looking through the large front window. After driving a truck for two years, I also love the short nose that allows me to turn on a dime and easily park. The mirrors and backup camera are great.

Today, I drove the rest of the way to Knoxville, picked up takeout from Olive Garden, and headed over to my daughter's house to have dinner with them.

Tonight, I'm staying at a campground, Southlake RV Park. It's just 2 miles away from my daughter's place. I've already encountered some typical campground drama. When I arrived, I went to the bathhouse where the manager said she was going to leave my welcome packet. It was not there. I parked in the spot that I reserved online. When i arrived, there was a power plug and hose connected. I thought it was strange, but I figured whoever normally stays here was gone or vacated for me. Well, not so. A couple hours in, I had a loud knock on my window. I was in someone else's spot, of course. They have the same van set up, and they've been here a whole week. I felt bad but explained the situation. I offered to move, but he said he would just move his connections to another site. I arrived after dark so I'll explore more tomorrow. Weather says it will be sunny tomorrow.

No baby yet... maybe tomorrow. And maybe I'll have some pictures too. Payroll is done. I have a little more work tonight, and maybe I'll watch some Netflix. I have power tonight and water to refill tomorrow, so I don't have to ration. I will still start the van again before sleep to heat, but the electric blanket will keep me cozy all night. It's going down to 35 tonight. My tootsies are cold.Read more