EPILOGUE

Reflections of a first cross country trip.

I must admit, initially, I was a little apprehensive about taking the plunge and going cross country with minimal camping experience. So many questions and unknowns. Nevertheless, I was bound and determined to pull this one off and throw caution, anxiety, and uneasiness to the wind and give it my best shot. Thankfully, most of the minor issues I encountered along the way were easily solved and/or corrected. And again, as in prior camping adventures from this past summer, I learned SO MUCH and yet, there is so much more to learn.

For starters, I need to take MORE pictures and to throw some video into the mix. I mean, after all, there is no rush to get from point A to point B, so why not spend a few extra minutes, pulling over on the side of the road and documenting the journey with more visuals. The road provides an endless source of interesting photo ops, so why not take advantage of those opportunities. So noted and will make a stronger effort to increase my photography.

Still over packing and taking too much stuff. So while I have managed to reduce some of the excess clothing, equipment, and supplies, there is still way too much clutter in the camper. Plus, much more organization needs to happen as Lenny and I share tight quarters (under 125 sq ft). Doesn't leave a lot of elbow room for moving about. And so, prior to winterizing the camper, we will spend some much needed time organizing the cabinets, under seat storage, and kitchen area for better space utilization. Lenny has made it very clear that he has no intention of sleeping alone, therefore, I can permanently set up the small dinette area once again for seating rather than a separate, unused sleeping bed for the hairball. He needs, however, to quit hogging my pillow.

Over the past several weeks, I have met some of the most interesting people who have shared their stories about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. And to be honest, I have done a lousy job of recording and sharing their stories. Definitely need to improve on that score. Some of these stories are gems and need to appear on my blog. I'll work on improving that.

One of the most pleasant surprises has been camping at various Harvest Host locations. What a bargain and for a small, annual fee, you have access to some of the most scenic places in the USA. Vineyards, brew pubs, museums, farms, and even weird sculpture in a field. Now honestly, how cool is that?? The only downside to using Harvest Host is that it requires a bit of pre-planning and advanced reservations. They fill up fast and with limited camper parking per location, the early bird gets the worm, the loser gets Cracker Barrel or Walmart. Will definitely be camping at more HH locations in 2023.

The biggest travel expense was fuel. Actually started off favorably with prices at the pump around 3.12 to 3.19. Well, that didn't last long but thankfully, I was not using diesel. By the time I arrived back in Wyoming, several weeks later, prices had jumped to 3.79 to 3.99. YIKES!!!!! I suspect they will rise much more as we approach 2023. Just keeping my fingers crossed that fuel becomes less expensive for next years travel excursions. (but not holding my breath) I will say that in spite of the cost of fuel, the 4 runner did as best as it could and by keeping towing speeds around 65mph or less, I was able to achieve a little better fuel efficiency. Sidebar, my friend Mary B suggested I look at this app called Upside which gives you cash back on gas. Ok, I need to check this one out.......thanks Mary!!!

So to recap, this first extended road adventure was wonderful, exciting, challenging, and so worth while. Of course time spent with family and friends is always cherished and added to the memory banks. And most folks know I am a "foodie" as are most of my family and friends. Always willing to try new and different restaurants and recipes. Honorable mention goes to some wonderful places in Raleigh and Durham, as well as Black Mountain and Weaverville. Since I already struggle with weight issues, it's probably a very good idea that I don't reside anywhere near North Carolina, (or Biscuitville for that matter) otherwise I'd need a portable hoyer lift. One last thought........life on the road with Lenny added so much enjoyment to the trip and his companionship and inquisitive nature was the absolute best. Not much of a navigator, but an outstanding first alert warning system and camper monitor. So, stay tuned for more updates and future travel plans as more road adventures are in the early development stages for 2023.