Carlos & I decided that it would be fun to travel around this country and see some of the national parks. At first we thought that we would like to rent a camper van but then we thought that it would be cheaper to buy one and then we can always sell it when we are done. We are also thinking about bringing the cats with us.

I thought it would be a cool idea to post our progress with finding something that will be our home away from home for a while and then we can have a trip blog as we cruise around the countryside (and maybe get a chance to visit with a few of you at the same time  ;) ).

As we started off on this venture, I educated myself about the types of RV/campers there are. You have pop-ups, 5th wheel, truck campers, Class A (the HUGE ones), Class B (the vans), and Class C (in between Class A & Class B in terms of size).

We visited our local RV place with a Class B in mind. They mostly have pull trailers & 5th wheels. They did have one Class B but it was a bit older than I wanted and the lay out was just all wrong. Scratch that one off the list. We did look at a Class C they had but it was way too big (remember Carlos has to drive it). It was very disappointing that our first trip there, they didn't have a choice-only the two of them which neither one was right.

They told us that they also had a truck camper-something we didn't even think about. (In fact, I didn't even KNOW they existed). Here it is:

http://i706.photobucket.com/albums/ww64/CatwomanofV/051.jpg

Thing about this is that the truck IS included!  :o :o :o  There are a lot of things going for it and the price is right but it just doesn't feel right to me. My main concern is the age. Carlos wanted to buy it.

So, we are still looking but at this point it could be a truck camper or a Class B. I asked Carlos which he prefers to drive a van or a truck. He didn't really answer. I think he has to think about that one. Of course if we get a truck camper, we will also have to buy a truck-but some do come with them. Also, there really aren't a lot of Class Bs around here. I'm not too sure why.


Cat

This is what I would travel the country in....well not necessarily this exact model but this size vehicle



http://www.blogcdn.com/www.gadling.com/media/2007/06/knausvliner.jpg




never mind...it's a european model....  :D

This is what I would travel the country in....well not necessarily this exact model but this size vehicle



http://www.blogcdn.com/www.gadling.com/media/2007/06/knausvliner.jpg



That might be a Class C-or a small Class A.



Cat

That might be a Class C-or a small Class A.



Cat


I think it's a fancy class b....

I think it's a fancy class b....



It was hard to see from that pic so I did a little research and it is a Class A.



Cat

Sounds like fun.  I've always wanted to do that. 

My uncle, when I was young, had a truck with a camper shell, albeit much smaller.  It was nice, very old, but nice.  A bit small though.

We had a pop-up tent/camper.  We really enjoyed it alot throughout my childhood.  I really wanted one when my hubby and I moved away, but just haven't gotten there yet.  The one thing I do have to say about them is that he fridge is just an ice box (or at least that used to be the standard in the '80s.)  We had to install a working electric fridge.  The matresses are also just a piece of spongue with upholstry over it.  I guess I'm a creature of comfort.  Roughing it is a campground without indor bathroom/shower facilities.  ;D

I wish you lots of luck and have to admit that I am a bit envious.

I think I'm leaning more towards the truck camper rather than the Class B. Reasons: I want the bed & the table to be separate. A lot of Class B's you have to remove the table to make the bed. Also, I want the shower to be separate. With a lot of Class Bs, you basically take a shower while sitting on the port-a-potty. Not exactly what I want to do.  :-\\  They actually look much bigger on the inside than they do on the outside.



Cat

It was hard to see from that pic so I did a little research and it is a Class A.



Cat


oh...it looked smaller... I def want a class B... they seem easier to handle.

oh...it looked smaller... I def want a class B... they seem easier to handle.


The thing is, I want it all in a small package.  :D ;D ;D ;D  They do have what they call "slide outs" which makes it bigger but Carlos doesn't want to get one with a slide out because it would be easy for them to leak.



Cat

The thing is, I want it all in a small package.  :D ;D ;D ;D  They do have what they call "slide outs" which makes it bigger but Carlos doesn't want to get one with a slide out because it would be easy for them to leak.



Cat


I have done a fair amount of camping, and the camper/truck combo you posted looks like a great idea. It would certainly be easier than setting up a pop up, and better to haul that a fifth-wheel, etc!

This is what I would travel the country in....well not necessarily this exact model but this size vehicle

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.gadling.com/media/2007/06/knausvliner.jpg

never mind...it's a european model....  :D


I don't know but I've been told,

http://www.outsideourbubble.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/090416-08-GMC_EM50_Urban_Assault_Vehicle_from_Stripes.jpg

(I don't know but I've been told!)

The camper from Stripes was made of gold.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploads18/73+GMC+Motorhome1310393571.jpg

(That GMC motorhome's painted gold!)

Actually, owning something like that is a lot more affordable than you might think.

Maybe this will help you in your decision.

Skip to about 4:25 and then listen to what the man has to say. :D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ie9DnmQCDUs

What is a 5th wheel?  I've seen mention of them before.  Is it what I would call a caravan?

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT4VBC8z7ws_meIbiRSDchbfskZNP4zsluPcDBADtvkSw4Avl7X

What is a 5th wheel?  I've seen mention of them before.  Is it what I would call a caravan?

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT4VBC8z7ws_meIbiRSDchbfskZNP4zsluPcDBADtvkSw4Avl7X





according to wiki answers:

In the days of horse-drawn wagons, the fifth wheel was a wheel placed horizontally over the front axle of a large wagon to facilitate turning. Basically, it allowed the front axle to pivot.  Today, the coupler of a tractor-trailer is called the fifth wheel, mostly because it's round (somewhat) and is vaguely reminiscent of the wagon's fifth wheel (which much more closely resembled the wagon's other four wheels)


http://s1.hubimg.com/u/1220752_f496.jpg

What is a 5th wheel?  I've seen mention of them before.  Is it what I would call a caravan?

http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT4VBC8z7ws_meIbiRSDchbfskZNP4zsluPcDBADtvkSw4Avl7X





according to wiki answers:

In the days of horse-drawn wagons, the fifth wheel was a wheel placed horizontally over the front axle of a large wagon to facilitate turning. Basically, it allowed the front axle to pivot.  Today, the coupler of a tractor-trailer is called the fifth wheel, mostly because it's round (somewhat) and is vaguely reminiscent of the wagon's fifth wheel (which much more closely resembled the wagon's other four wheels)


http://s1.hubimg.com/u/1220752_f496.jpg





Trucker Al can elaborate.  ;)

This is a fifth wheel on a semi-tractor:

http://www.thetruckersreport.com/images/fifthwheel.jpg

Underneath and near the front of a semi-trailer is what's called a kingpin:

http://www.highwayhags.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/kingpin.jpg



When you back a tractor underneath a trailer, the kingpin slides into the fifth wheel, which has spring loaded jaws that lock around the kingpin when it's bumped against the fifth wheel. The fifth wheel jaws are very strong and they can hold a loaded trailer that weighs upwards of 40,000 lbs.

Fifth wheel campers work on the same principle only they're not nearly as large as a tractor-trailer.

This is a fifth wheel in a pickup (similar to a semi-tractor fifth wheel only smaller):

http://blogs.cars.com/.a/6a00d83451b3c669e20128772c2c56970c-800wi

Which latches onto the kingpin on the front of the camper:

http://s1.hubimg.com/u/1220752_f496.jpg

This is what it looks like when it's all hooked up.

http://rv-roadtrips.thefuntimesguide.com/images/blogs/Large-5th-Wheel-RV-and-Truck-by-Larry-Page.jpg

:)

^ thank you!

^ thank you!


You're welcome.  :)

If money was no object, I think it'd be really cool to get an old vintage Blue Bird Wanderlodge.  ;)

http://www.bluefavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Blue-Bird-Wanderlodge.jpg

Thanks for the explanation of 5th wheel.

The caravan I pictured hooks onto a tow ball hitch that is at the back of the car underneath the bumper (fender?)

Thanks for the explanation of 5th wheel.

The caravan I pictured hooks onto a tow ball hitch that is at the back of the car underneath the bumper (fender?)





Bumper.  The fender is at the front of the car

Bumper.  The fender is at the front of the car



Actually, I think both are called both-either bumper or fender. I have heard, "Back fender" or "Front bumper."



Cat

Actually, I think both are called both-either bumper or fender. I have heard, "Back fender" or "Front bumper."



Cat


I've heard the term rear bumper / front bumper but have never heard it applied to fenders  In law enforcement (at my dept at least) if we say fender we are actually referring to the front of the vehicle.

Update:

We have decided to postpone our trip until next year. We are not having too much luck with finding the right camper for us. Most people trade/sell their campers in the fall (the time we want to go). We figure that by giving us that extra year, we can find the right camper without having to settle for what our local dealer has.


Cat

Ok, I think we have settled on a Class C. They come anywhere from 19 feet-33 feet. We are hoping to find one under 25 ft-26 at the most.

In my search for one, last night I found one that wasn't too far but it was basically the kind I wanted and the price was reasonable. We called and of course it was already sold.  :\'( Today I found one just around the corner from here. We are going to look at it tomorrow. The problem with it is that it is a 1984.  :-\\ But, it is really cheap. It doesn't hurt to look.


Cat

Hopefully it's cheap because they want to get rid of it...not because it's got problems.

Hopefully it's cheap because they want to get rid of it...not because it's got problems.



It's cheap because it is almost 30 years old.  :-\\



Cat

We have lots of camper experience....  We have a 2001 35' Dutchman fifth wheel with 2 slideouts.... The slide outs are solid construction, they really do not leak (unless straight line winds force rain up under the seal; but that is very rare and you have to be parked the right way with the wind coming exactly the right way).  Fifth wheels pull/ride the better than trailer/bumper hitch, as they sit right on rear axel. 

Truck campers, really can be a chore to step up into and out of.  A woman at the camp ground we were at a couple weeks ago, fell and tore her spleen on the steps.  Also, whenever you leave campsite, you have to take it with (and all your stuff, unless you like giving away things for free) and possibly lose your site...(smart problem with a rv unless you tow a vehicle behind .

Tables folding down into bed doooo suck!  We have them in all Of our campers because of kids!  But they are little more than twin (even thOugh in camper world considered double) hard and just suck to do!!!!  Go for fold down couch!!!!!

We have lots of camper experience....  We have a 2001 35' Dutchman fifth wheel with 2 slideouts.... The slide outs are solid construction, they really do not leak (unless straight line winds force rain up under the seal; but that is very rare and you have to be parked the right way with the wind coming exactly the right way).  Fifth wheels pull/ride the better than trailer/bumper hitch, as they sit right on rear axel. 

Truck campers, really can be a chore to step up into and out of.  A woman at the camp ground we were at a couple weeks ago, fell and tore her spleen on the steps.  Also, whenever you leave campsite, you have to take it with (and all your stuff, unless you like giving away things for free) and possibly lose your site...(smart problem with a rv unless you tow a vehicle behind .

Tables folding down into bed doooo suck!  We have them in all Of our campers because of kids!  But they are little more than twin (even thOugh in camper world considered double) hard and just suck to do!!!!  Go for fold down couch!!!!!




Thanks for the advice. We have thought about the towing the car.

After looking at that Class C which was about 24 ft., we realized that it really is too big for us. We are now looking for something under 20 ft. So, that means we are back to the Class B or a very small Class C (which do exist). We do like having the bed over the cab (which saves room). The local dealer (the first place we went to) does have a Class B with the bed over the cab but it is a 1995, doesn't have a table and looks like the ceiling has issues. We don't know if it is water damage or if it is coming apart from the roof.

After looking at different models, I have come across one that I REALLY like and would love to find one-but all the ones that I have found for sale are on the other side of the country. The closest is in Virgina.


http://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2010-FOUR-WINDS-MAJESTIC-19G-96104414

The only thing in this model that doesn't meet our wish list is the shower is not separate. Oh well. Of course finding one of these close by is like looking for a needle in a haystack.



Cat

Thanks for the advice. We have thought about the towing the car.

After looking at that Class C which was about 24 ft., we realized that it really is too big for us. We are now looking for something under 20 ft. So, that means we are back to the Class B or a very small Class C (which do exist). We do like having the bed over the cab (which saves room). The local dealer (the first place we went to) does have a Class B with the bed over the cab but it is a 1995, doesn't have a table and looks like the ceiling has issues. We don't know if it is water damage or if it is coming apart from the roof.

After looking at different models, I have come across one that I REALLY like and would love to find one-but all the ones that I have found for sale are on the other side of the country. The closest is in Virgina.


http://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2010-FOUR-WINDS-MAJESTIC-19G-96104414

The only thing in this model that doesn't meet our wish list is the shower is not separate. Oh well. Of course finding one of these close by is like looking for a needle in a haystack.



Cat



that one's cool...too bad it's in CA... I'd drive it to you guys but then I'd have to fly back....that doesn't really work for me....plus it seems to be missing a TV.  Oh the horrors of all those hours without a TV!!!!  ;) :D

that one's cool...too bad it's in CA... I'd drive it to you guys but then I'd have to fly back....that doesn't really work for me....plus it seems to be missing a TV.  Oh the horrors of all those hours without a TV!!!!  ;) :D
most have tv hookups... Just bring one of yours with O0

Thanks for the advice. We have thought about the towing the car.

After looking at that Class C which was about 24 ft., we realized that it really is too big for us. We are now looking for something under 20 ft. So, that means we are back to the Class B or a very small Class C (which do exist). We do like having the bed over the cab (which saves room). The local dealer (the first place we went to) does have a Class B with the bed over the cab but it is a 1995, doesn't have a table and looks like the ceiling has issues. We don't know if it is water damage or if it is coming apart from the roof.

After looking at different models, I have come across one that I REALLY like and would love to find one-but all the ones that I have found for sale are on the other side of the country. The closest is in Virgina.


http://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2010-FOUR-WINDS-MAJESTIC-19G-96104414

The only thing in this model that doesn't meet our wish list is the shower is not separate. Oh well. Of course finding one of these close by is like looking for a needle in a haystack.



Cat
Nice!  BUT NO WAY can I take a shower with the TOILET!!!!!!!!  Uh uh no way, no how...  I am in love with the Forest Rivers, but they are 24' class C...

most have tv hookups... Just bring one of yours with O0


the one pictured didn't seem to have a dedicated place for the TV... someone should invent a microwave oven with a front that's a TV

most have tv hookups... Just bring one of yours with O0



I was going to say that.



Nice!  BUT NO WAY can I take a shower with the TOILET!!!!!!!!  Uh uh no way, no how...  I am in love with the Forest Rivers, but they are 24' class C...



Not what I want either, but we may have to compromise on that.  :-\\ 

24s are really too big for us.

As I am looking, I find it confusing when I see something called a Class B and it is 27 feet. I guess the lines are blurred sometimes.



Cat

I was going to say that.



Not what I want either, but we may have to compromise on that.  :-\\ 

24s are really too big for us.

As I am looking, I find it confusing when I see something called a Class B and it is 27 feet. I guess the lines are blurred sometimes.



Cat
It is all about the chassis they sit upon, after that.... no real clue for me. Hubby would know.  And Q your right Class B's typically do not have a place for entertainment center. My husband would never even think about that!

I have TOTALLY found the one that I want.


http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/images/07exterior.jpg

If you are interested in the specs:

http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/index.htm

There are a few different models. Some have a table/booth (the one I want) and some without.


Now to find one that is fairly close to us. There was one in Mass that we called but it was sold already.  :\'( :\'( :\'(



Cat

I like it...any pics of the inside?
Never mind I found them.... I should've looked harder  :-[ 



I broke it  :-\\  I started looking at the pics but then I got a call and now it won't let me select the details about it.  :-\\

I like it...any pics of the inside?
Never mind I found them.... I should've looked harder  :-[ 



I broke it  :-\\  I started looking at the pics but then I got a call and now it won't let me select the details about it.  :-\\



Start again. It is the G24 model that I like.



Cat

Start again. It is the G24 model that I like.



Cat




I fixed it... I'm having focusing issues today  :D

Well the most important question is answered  :D  O0

Retractable antenna can be turned in any direction to optimize television reception. 
http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/images/06antenna.jpg    http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/images/07lcd.jpg

Well the most important question is answered  :D  O0

Retractable antenna can be turned in any direction to optimize television reception. 
http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/images/06antenna.jpg    http://www.gulfstreamcoach.com/bvans/images/07lcd.jpg



I figured you would like that part.  ;)

Like I said, I hope that we can find one fairly close by so we can go to check it out. I SOOOO want this one.



Cat

I figured you would like that part.  ;)

Like I said, I hope that we can find one fairly close by so we can go to check it out. I SOOOO want this one.



Cat



I'll keep my fingers crossed...

I like it, Cat.  Hope you can see one.

There is one in Maine. It is quite a distance but doable. Found it on Craigslist. I emailed them. Just waiting to hear now. So, this weekend, we may be taking a trip to Maine.



Cat

There is one in Maine. It is quite a distance but doable. Found it on Craigslist. I emailed them. Just waiting to hear now. So, this weekend, we may be taking a trip to Maine.



Cat



have some lobster for me!

have some lobster for me!



You know me too well.  ;)



Cat

Just heard from the person in Maine. It is NOT sold yet. We called but got their machine. Looks like Maine, here we come.



Cat

Just heard from the person in Maine. It is NOT sold yet. We called but got their machine. Looks like Maine, here we come.



Cat


awesome

BTW, we are packing a bunch of coolers in the car so we can bring back a bunch of lobsters.  ;D ;D ;D ;D



Cat

BTW, we are packing a bunch of coolers in the car so we can bring back a bunch of lobsters.  ;D ;D ;D ;D



Cat



Just remember....once you get it and hit the road there's more lobster in your future!  ;)

Just remember....once you get it and hit the road there's more lobster in your future!  ;)



We know. Our last trip to Maine (last century-before I moved in with Carlos), Carlos' oldest daughter was living there. We bought a dozen lobsters-had 4 of them that night (one for each of us-included my step-daughter's ex husband) and the rest we brought home. Actually, we cooked them up that night so they would fair better on the ride home. At the time, we didn't PLAN to bring any home with us-now we are planning.


Cat


Cat

We know. Our last trip to Maine (last century-before I moved in with Carlos), Carlos' oldest daughter was living there. We bought a dozen lobsters-had 4 of them that night (one for each of us-included my step-daughter's ex husband) and the rest we brought home. Actually, we cooked them up that night so they would fair better on the ride home. At the time, we didn't PLAN to bring any home with us-now we are planning.


Cat


Cat


Naw I mean. If you get (the camper).  And once you hit the road (in it). There's (even) more lobster in your future (with me) hence the    ;)

Naw I mean. If you get (the camper).  And once you hit the road (in it). There's (even) more lobster in your future (with me) hence the    ;)



Ok, gotcha. But, I'm not too sure when we are going to make to your neck of the woods-but we will.



Cat

Just printed out the map. It is over 7 hours to get there.  :-\\  Yes, we are planning to get a motel room tonight. Don't know if we will be home tomorrow or Sunday. I really hope this is worth it.



Cat

Well, we show up pretty much knowing we were going to buy it. I couldn't understand why it was being sold when it is in really good condition-until I saw the couple. They were pushing 80. She didn't want to travel anymore and he didn't want to go alone (or she wouldn't let him go alone). They were very sweet. We took it for a test drive and Carlos was sold. We gave them a deposit and now we have to figure out how to get it home. But, basically...


WE BOUGHT IT!!!!!

The couple was so sweet that Carlos didn't even negotiate the price. But they were asking less than the one that was in Mass. They did tell us that they had about 6 other inquiries. But we got there first.  ;D ;D ;D

So we spent the rest of the day driving around. We went to Mount Dessert Island-a place where my mother's mother's family is from. (I think there may be a cousin left in the area but I don't know her). We stopped to ask for info and there was an older women and I asked her how long she was in the area and she said all her life. I asked her if she knew what used to be my mother's cousin's restaurant. She did-she remembers not only the restaurant but my mother's cousins. We were going to go to it but it was on the pricey side and it was quite a drive and it was getting late. So, we found another restaurant, which we naturally had lobster & steamers. Then we bought 20 lbs of lobster to bring home.  :o :o :o 

After lunch, we found a beach that was a bit off the beaten track, I took some pics before heading west again. So, we basically started driving home but taking some of the back roads instead of the interstates. We stopped for dinner and we had (you guessed it) lobster & steamers.  ;D ;D ;D 

We are still in Maine and will be home tomorrow.

I have come to conclusion that I really love Maine. We used to come here a lot when I was younger but haven't been here for a long time. My mother always loved Maine and she comes here as often as she can. Most of the people we have had contact with have been very nice and friendly. There was only one woman who was snotty. (And my grandmother who was from Maine was the meanest woman I have ever met!) I am glad that we will be coming back here to pick up the van.

(This is really my first post in our travel blog.  :D ;D ;D)


Cat

YAY

A couple of things I forgot to mention in my post yesterday. The motel we stayed at was called the "Black Bear Inn." When we walked into the room, it had a little black bear on one of the beds with a note that said, "We don't want you to get lonely while you stay with us so here is a bear to keep you company." And then it proceeded to tell you that you could buy the bear and the proceeds go for a cancer center. Well, that bear came home with us.  ;D ;D

Unfortunately, we bought our lobsters in a very touristy place so they were on the expensive side (but cheaper than Vermont). I think we paid something like $8 a lb but after we bought them, and was heading west, we saw a sign that advertized something like $3-4 a lb.  :-\\ Dinner was much cheaper even though it was the same meal. Next time we will know.

Today, we just basically headed home. We only made one stop (Q, you will love this)-the Dog Chapel. For those of you who have never heard of it: http://www.dogmt.com/local-area/dog-chapel.html  Cats are also honored there, too.

When I first heard of it, I wanted to go but didn't know exactly where it was. When we were heading out on Friday, I saw it as we passed it so I told Carlos that I wanted to stop on our way back. Oh man, I got very teary eyed. I left a note;

http://i142.photobucket.com/albums/r92/aandcsattic/256.jpg


Yeah, I know the pic is a bit blurry.  :-[ It was really hard for me to find a place for it without covering up someone else's note. I did try.

In case you haven't realized, we are now home. Unfortunately, 5 of our new "friends" didn't make it home alive.  :-\\  Carlos is cooking them up right now. BTW, you can guess what we are going to have for dinner tonight (and tomorrow night, and the next night...).  :D ;D ;D ;D  The rest of their buddies are in the refridge. They will get cooked soon and then we will freeze them for future dinners.


The cats are all over me. I think they missed me. Overall, I would say it was a VERY NICE weekend. And enjoyable trip. Had a great time.



Cat

Addendum from Carlos:

I knew the lobsters were over priced because we were in a tourist area, but the place where I knew we could get near whole sale was a few hours away in the wrong direction.  So, what the hell.  Cat REALLY wanted to bring some home, so... (If you want directions PM me)

It was a really nice trip and Maine is very nice - almost as nice as Vermont.  If you want to see Acadia at its best, go to the north shore, through a town called Winter Harbor (where a lobster fisherman's Co O-p is) and see the Atlantic in all its glory

The White Mountains are not like the Rockies, but impressive

All in all sounds like a worthwhile trip. The dog chapel sounds nice.  And the lobsters sound great. Even at $8 a lb

WE BOUGHT IT!!!!!



Cat


Congratulations

WE BOUGHT IT!!!!!


They bought it.

PnsPpAGB9MU


(This is really my first post in our travel blog.  :D ;D ;D)


How could they possibly be expected to handle work on a day like that?

Congrats!

Yesterday was a LONG day. We woke up at 5 a.m.  :o :o :o :o after going to bed about 11. Yup-only 6 hours of sleep. Our friend was pretty much on time at 6 to pick us up and we headed off. We love our friend dearly but he drives us INSANE!!!! I was sitting in the back seat and yeah, part of the problem was my fault because I kept talking to him. I mainly kept talking to him because he mentioned that he has a tendency of getting sleepy & falling asleep-especially after such an early start. Carlos told me that he was talking so loud that it hurt his ears. He kept turning his head to look at me instead of keeping his eyes on the road. But what was the kicker (which I didn't know about this until after because I couldn't see it) he kept taking his hands off the wheel to make hand gestures!  :o :o :o :o  WTF??!!! As we were passing something, I made a comment about it to Carlos and our driver would have to turn his head to look-instead of watching the road. And then when he would pass another vehicle... :o :o :o :o  Let's just say, that Carlos & I were very happy to have that part of the trip ended. (But now, we laugh about it.)

The second part of the trip (the drive home): One of the first things I did was put a CD (audiobook) into the player but it wouldn't go. I thought maybe I had to do something else first. Carlos was trying to figure out the A/C-so I opened the book, and figured out the A/C and they didn't have any info on the CD player. Ok. But then I realized what the problem was with the player-there was already a CD in it!  :o  ;D ;D ;D  I felt a bit bad taking these people's CD (the Four Tops) but we didn't want to turn around (we were only about a mile or so from their house).

The first stop we made was to a lobster pound that was right on our route. Unfortunately, the guy was totally out, he had just cleaned his tanks and was going to pick up more today-doesn't do us any good. We asked him if there was another place. He said there was but he wasn't good at giving directions and we didn't have a clue what he was talking about. So, we didn't get any lobsters this trip-not even for dinner.  :\'( :\'( :\'( :\'(

Carlos told me that it drove fine. However, I have an issue-the seat is very uncomfortable for me.  :-\\ This was the first time I sat in it because when Carlos took it for the test drive, the guy who was selling it, sat in the seat-and I sat in back. After some adjustment, I realize that it is too short for me to be comfortable in. So, now I have to try to figure out how to remedy that issue. Maybe I can get some kind of seat that I can put over it to give it more length. 

We stopped for dinner and after we came out of the restaurant, we were just standing around before getting in (Carlos was smoking his pipe.) Some guy came up to us and asked if the van was ours. We said yes and then he asked, "How is it?" We basically told him, "We don't know yet, we just picked it up." We told him it was our "maiden voyage" but we did say that so far, so go. He asked if he could look inside. We allowed him to and he made a comment, "I can handle something like this." He told us that his wife wanted a 24 foot. This one is 22 feet.

At one point, Carlos missed our turn which under the circumstances was understandable. Right before the turn-off, someone was coming on the highway and Carlos moved over-and there went our exit. He should have slowed but didn't realized that our exit was right there. So, we took the next exit and took a country road to get back to the road we wanted-only lost about 15 minutes or so. So, we took the scenic route-but it didn't matter since it was about 10 and it was dark and you couldn't see anything anyway.

We finally pulled into the driveway about 11:30. Yup-we did it in a day-but a LONG day. It took a while to unwind and FINALLY turned off the light about 2 a.m.

Now, we get to start playing with our new toy.  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D 



Cat

YAY!!!

Fantastic, Cat and Carlos.

We are finally planning our first trip with our new toy. We used it twice last year more as a U-Haul when we were cleaning out my mother's house. We did sleep in it and it was quite comfortable (except one night was it was REALLY cold-but that wasn't the van's fault). We didn't really have a battery for the generator at the time.

One day, about a month ago or so, Carlos went out to start it and it wouldn't start due to lack of use. So we jump started it, took it for a drive and everything was fine. Today, Carlos was going to go get a new generator battery and once again it wouldn't start. It needs to be jumped again. We will do that on Friday when we have more time to take it for a long drive to make sure the battery is fully charged.

Our first trip will be in two weeks. We joined Good Sam's Club. We are planning to go back to Maine for 3 days. We already made reservations at a camp site. So, this will be our shake-down trip.

Next month we are planning the BIG one! We plan on leaving here about the middle of August, heading west. There are places on the itinerary but nothing is written in stone. We plan to take a month-month & a half and be back here around the end of Sept-early Oct.

Hopefully, we can get the van in working order.  :-\\



Cat

We are finally planning our first trip with our new toy. We used it twice last year more as a U-Haul when we were cleaning out my mother's house. We did sleep in it and it was quite comfortable (except one night was it was REALLY cold-but that wasn't the van's fault). We didn't really have a battery for the generator at the time.

One day, about a month ago or so, Carlos went out to start it and it wouldn't start due to lack of use. So we jump started it, took it for a drive and everything was fine. Today, Carlos was going to go get a new generator battery and once again it wouldn't start. It needs to be jumped again. We will do that on Friday when we have more time to take it for a long drive to make sure the battery is fully charged.

Our first trip will be in two weeks. We joined Good Sam's Club. We are planning to go back to Maine for 3 days. We already made reservations at a camp site. So, this will be our shake-down trip.

Next month we are planning the BIG one! We plan on leaving here about the middle of August, heading west. There are places on the itinerary but nothing is written in stone. We plan to take a month-month & a half and be back here around the end of Sept-early Oct.

Hopefully, we can get the van in working order.  :-\\



Cat

Your cats will miss you while you're away, but when you get back they probably won't leave you be  :) 

Your cats will miss you while you're away, but when you get back they probably won't leave you be  :)



Yup-always. I feel guilty because we leave for months at a time usually when we go to Puerto Rico. I have a really good friend who comes to feed them. He works at the high school that is up the street from us and he comes over on his lunch break. He is even much better at cleaning the litter boxes than I am.  :D ;D ;D ;D You think the cats would be used to him coming in every day but yet, every day, they hide when he comes in. He tells me that he only sees Elvira's ass as she goes into her hidey hole.  ;D ;D ;D ;D



Cat

Yup-always. I feel guilty because we leave for months at a time usually when we go to Puerto Rico. I have a really good friend who comes to feed them. He works at the high school that is up the street from us and he comes over on his lunch break. He is even much better at cleaning the litter boxes than I am.  :D ;D ;D ;D You think the cats would be used to him coming in every day but yet, every day, they hide when he comes in. He tells me that he only sees Elvira's ass as she goes into her hidey hole.  ;D ;D ;D ;D
 


Cat

Every time someone comes over besides my sister my youngest hides.  The other one is more curious who it is and why they are in his house  ;D 
BTW he is the twin brother of one of my sister's two cats.

Every time someone comes over besides my sister my youngest hides.  The other one is more curious who it is and why they are in his house  ;D



I understand if it is someone she doesn't know but this guy comes everyday, feeds her, changes her boxes and she runs from him. I just don't get it.  ???



Cat

I understand if it is someone she doesn't know but this guy comes everyday, feeds her, changes her boxes and she runs from him. I just don't get it.  ???



Cat


One of my boys was like that.  The only people he came out to see were me and Sarah.  Even my dad, who was at my house more than once a week doing laundry and playing with the other cat.

We are finally planning our first trip with our new toy. We used it twice last year more as a U-Haul when we were cleaning out my mother's house. We did sleep in it and it was quite comfortable (except one night was it was REALLY cold-but that wasn't the van's fault). We didn't really have a battery for the generator at the time.

One day, about a month ago or so, Carlos went out to start it and it wouldn't start due to lack of use. So we jump started it, took it for a drive and everything was fine. Today, Carlos was going to go get a new generator battery and once again it wouldn't start. It needs to be jumped again. We will do that on Friday when we have more time to take it for a long drive to make sure the battery is fully charged.

Our first trip will be in two weeks. We joined Good Sam's Club. We are planning to go back to Maine for 3 days. We already made reservations at a camp site. So, this will be our shake-down trip.

Next month we are planning the BIG one! We plan on leaving here about the middle of August, heading west. There are places on the itinerary but nothing is written in stone. We plan to take a month-month & a half and be back here around the end of Sept-early Oct.

Hopefully, we can get the van in working order.  :-\\



Cat


Sounds like you guys made a great investment with the camper. Where are you planning to visit when you go out west?

Sounds like you guys made a great investment with the camper. Where are you planning to visit when you go out west?



-The Black Hills/Mount Rushmore
-Jellystone Yellowstone Park
-Yemenite Park
-Winchester House ( http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/ )
-Grand Canyon
-Relatives in California & Tulsa
-A few Inthe00s members.  ;D ;D ;D


Those are the places on the itinerary but we may go to other places.



Cat

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRKNw477onU

-The Black Hills/Mount Rushmore
-Jellystone Yellowstone Park
-Yemenite Park
-Winchester House ( http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/ )
-Grand Canyon
-Relatives in California & Tulsa
-A few Inthe00s members.  ;D ;D ;D


Those are the places on the itinerary but we may go to other places.



Cat

I would like to visit the Winchester House someday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRKNw477onU



Somehow, when I hear this song, I picture a VW microbus. Groovy, man!  :D ;D ;D ;D ;D



I would like to visit the Winchester House someday.



Me too, that is why it is on the literary. It is a bit out of the way-but I REALLY, REALLY want to go. Actually, besides the relatives, I have never been to any of the places I have listed. This will be my first trip for it all. Carlos has been to most of them.



Cat

Will you take plenty of pictures of the places and post some of them here?  :P

Will you take plenty of pictures of the places and post some of them here?  :P



Do bears go doodoo in the woods?  :D ;D ;D ;D  Of course I'm going to take lots of pics. Part of the reason why I just bought a new camera-this one has a HUGE zoom lens.



Cat

Do bears go doodoo in the woods?  :D ;D ;D ;D  Of course I'm going to take lots of pics. Part of the reason why I just bought a new camera-this one has a HUGE zoom lens.



Cat

8)

Do bears go doodoo in the woods?  :D ;D ;D ;D  Of course I'm going to take lots of pics. Part of the reason why I just bought a new camera-this one has a HUGE zoom lens.



Cat


So when pictures of our living rooms all suddenly appear in the "What would you see if you looked through my window right now (or whatever it's called)... we'll have some suspects?  :D ;) ;D ;D

So when pictures of our living rooms all suddenly appear in the "What would you see if you looked through my window right now (or whatever it's called)... we'll have some suspects?  :D ;) ;D ;D



Oh man, you weren't supposed to announce that that is what I had planned.  >:( >:( >:(



:D :D ;D ;D ;D ;D



Cat

Update: Went out and jumped the van. Went for a LONG drive and then went to an rv place. We need a new battery for the back (the battery that runs the generator). We had the check the battery that runs the van. It was really low-so we needed ANOTHER battery. But they didn't sell those kind so we had to make another stop. So, two new batteries today. At least we won't have to worry about waking up some morning and the van won't start or the generator dies in the middle of the night if we are using it. We may not have to bring the jumper cables with us.



Cat

Update: Went out and jumped the van. Went for a LONG drive and then went to an rv place. We need a new battery for the back (the battery that runs the generator). We had the check the battery that runs the van. It was really low-so we needed ANOTHER battery. But they didn't sell those kind so we had to make another stop. So, two new batteries today. At least we won't have to worry about waking up some morning and the van won't start or the generator dies in the middle of the night if we are using it. We may not have to bring the jumper cables with us.



Cat


Actually, the back battery is a reserve for  when we are not using the generator, which charges the back battery and runs the camper electronics when the is no "shore" hookup

Actually, the back battery is a reserve for  when we are not using the generator, which charges the back battery and runs the camper electronics when the is no "shore" hookup



I knew it was something like that.  ;)



Cat

We just got back from our 3 day shakedown trip to Maine. We are really glad that we took this trip before going on the BIG on in about 2 weeks because this gave us a feel for things and also we now know what needs to be addressed.

-The first & foremost thing to be address is the transmission. At first it was fine but then the van was losing speed going up hills-and sometimes when the hills were not very steep or high. It was really bad going over the White Mountains in New Hampshire.

-The first thing we noticed that was wrong when we first started out was the radio. We always listen to audiobooks when we take long trips. We have a device that you plug into the lighter and it will play MP3 files from a flashdrive through a radio frequency. So, I went to turn on the radio to set it up. This big thing comes up that says "CODE." I didn't have the operating instructions so I was just trying to figure it out. The instructions were in the back so Carlos pulled over and got the instructions out. Come to find out the radio has an anti-theft device that when it loses power (when we changed the battery), you have to plug in some code. Code? What code? Where is the code? We looked throughout our paperwork and couldn't find ANY code. I would really love to know whose brilliant idea this was. So, we couldn't listen to any music/audiobook, nothing!!!! The radio was totally useless. When we got to campsite and I was able to fire up the laptop and go on line, I found out that we have to take the VIN # to a Dodge dealer to find out the code. 

-Another thing that we have to have checked out is the hot water heater. It is a tankless-but we weren't getting ANY hot water-not even lukewarm. It was COLD!!!!


There were other little things like one of the cabinets wouldn't close-it was at first but then it stopped. Why? Who knows. But, we bought a bungee cord to tie it down so it didn't bang as we were driving. We also realized that we forgot some things-like an umbrella and stuff like that.


As for the trip itself, it was pretty nice. After dealing with the super highways, we decided to go on the less travel roads. It turned out to be nice. We got to see a lot of Maine that most people don't see and we avoided a lot of traffic.

The campsite we stayed at was great. The people were SOOOOO nice. But what was pretty cool was that they delivered two lobsters to our van.  ;D ;D  (We put in our order just in time because we got the last two.)

I didn't get some great shots of Acadia National Park because when we went, there was a massive fog patch. It was kind of weird because at one point, you could hardly see a few feet in front of you and then it was really clear. And then you would hit fog again. You couldn't see the water because of the fog.

On our way out, we stopped at another place that was off the beaten highway and bought a dozen lobsters-and two lbs of clams to bring home. They were a GREAT price. In fact, we were talking to owner of our campsite (who made the lobsters that he delivered to us) and we think the price we paid is cheaper than the price he pays for his lobster-and we know that he does get a good deal from the fishermen.


On the way home, we stopped at a place called Perry's Nut House.

http://www.perrysnuthouse.com/


This was a place that we used to stop at when I was a kid. I told Carlos that I wanted to stop for nostalgic reasons. We walked in and the first thing we were asked if we wanted to sample some fudge. Well, A DUH!!! They had I don't know how many flavor of fudge and we were told that we could sample ALL of them if we wish. We sampled quite a few and I think there was only one that we were a bit disappointed with. It was the BEST fudge I have EVER had in my life!!! Naturally, we bought a bunch. (They do ship so if anyone wants some-I recommend it. Our favorites were the Pistachio & Maple Walnut -but we did get some other flavors, too.) 

As I was checking out with not only our fudge, I also got a tee shirt and some magnets, I remember they used to have tee shirts that said, "I escaped from Perry's Nut House" and just as I was asking about it, a woman walked passed me wearing such a tee shirt. So, after I paid, I went back to find a tee shirt that said that. The owner was right there and I asked if they had that saying in a magnet. He said, "What a great idea. You have the job of making one." I mentioned how I collect magnets. He picked up a magnet and was going to give me one but I already got that one and already paid for it. Then he picked up another one and asked me if I had that-I didn't so he gave that one to me. How cool-a freebie magnet-for coming up with an idea.



So now we have to work on some things before the big trip. But, my biggest concern with the big trip is if Carlos & I will get on each others nerves after spending over a month in just 22 feet together.  :D :D ;D ;D ;D ;D


I will post pics later.



Cat

Okay so is it pistachio & maple walnut fudge or was there pistachio fudge and also maple walnut fudge?


I can't check the website because I'd feel the need to order something and I just can't  :D

Okay so is it pistachio & maple walnut fudge or was there pistachio fudge and also maple walnut fudge?


I can't check the website because I'd feel the need to order something and I just can't  :D



It is pistachio fudge AND maple walnut fudge-two different flavors.


I forgot to mention another highlight of the trip, we found a little out of the way winery that offered wine tasting. This trip we did manage a lot of the little out of the way places. Sometimes they are the best.



Cat

Nice trip to Maine, Cat.

When does the BIG trip start? 
Too bad you guys couldn't make it here, I understand. Have fun meeting other "special" friends and nice places to see  :)

Nice trip to Maine, Cat.

When does the BIG trip start? 
Too bad you guys couldn't make it here, I understand. Have fun meeting other "special" friends and nice places to see  :)



We are SUPPOSED to leave a week from Wednesday but if the van isn't fixed, that ain't happenin'.

As you know from reading this thread, this trip was planned over a year ago. The funny thing is, we are already planning next year's trip(s). Another trip to Maine is in the works. Like I said before, both of us LOVE Maine. I'm sure we can get a trip in your way next year.



Cat