The Hard Part

The hardest part of our vacation is getting ready. Of course the truck and RV have to be in good condition. We noticed the truck had an alignment problem - it had to have a stablizer rod replaced. When we bought the truck(2005/used) it came with a Banks system. A Banks system is suppose to help pull heavy loads and get better gas mileage. A part of the system had burned out and had to be replaced or the whole system removed. We had it replaced so we could get better gas mileage. $$$ Next Nick washed the RV and we cleaned the interior. Then for two days we organized and packed tools, clothes, fishing equipment, food, etc. during the coolest times of the morning and late evening. We keep dishes, cooking utensils, sheets and towels in the fifth wheel all the time. Nick also has a some tools, our fold out/inflatable 2-man boat and some fishing equipment already organized in the large storage area. The camper has a lot of storage. The closet and dresser area is just right for the different kinds of clothing we have to take. We start out in 100 degree weather, but spend most of our time in much cooler temperatures. We have a closet with jackets, rain gear and light wind breakers. We have a space for thermal underwear, thermal socks and sweat shirts (the thermal is worn when fly fishing in cold rivers for trout). The bigger closet stores our shirts, jeans and shoes. The dresser holds the rest. We are learning to take fewer clothes and use the laundry facilities provided at most of the campgrounds.
The last things we load are the canned goods, refrigerator food and personal items. I have a detailed list of things to take and check it twice before we leave, but there is always that feeling that we are forgetting something important. At last its time to bring in the slide outs and hook up the trailer to the truck. We're ready.
We finally head out June 12 - the trip had finally begun.
Next time - Buchanan Dam and San Angelo.