Glimpsing the Dream

Pattie and I flew back from LA to Atlanta after convincing my boss that I would split the travel cost of driving my RV across country so I could return and finish out a major project while living in the RV.  We had been planning a vacation to Deadwood, SD to attend the Black Hills Jeep Jamboree; so, we were headed that way anyway.  After a night in Auburn to check The Bus systems and have dinner with our sons, we headed out.   The first two nights we stayed in campgrounds and began to question why we are paying for full hook-up sites when we are simply stopping, having dinner and sleeping.  The third night we decided to try boondocking in the Sioux Falls, SD Wal-Mart parking lot.  We received permission from the manager and leveled the coach on ramps rather than using the auto leveling system which can hard asphalt.  Sweet.  On Wednesday, we rolled into Whistler Gulch Campground in Deadwood, SD and setup for a six-night stay. 

We took it easy Thursday getting use to the altitude and touring Leed, SD learning about the gold mining operations that occurred there.  Thursday evening 120 Jeeps rooled in to town ot register for trail rides.  Jeep Jamboree is a family event with trails for the novice all the way to extreme built rigs, but they must be Jeep vehicles. 

We selected a medium trail for Friday and the weather was perfect as we pulled out and headed into the mountains. 

The trails were challenging enough for our mostly stock Wrangler Rubicon and allowed me to practice my driving skills.

On Saturday, we took a less challenging trail and I let Pattie drive so she could practice her skills.

On Sunday, we made a trip down to Mount Rushmore and toured around the area seeing the Needles rock formations and wildlife.

On Monday, we headed down to Badlands national Park and drove the Loop Road.  Although it was overcast, we were amazed at the landscape.  We had lunch in Wall, SD and spent a couple hours in the Wounded Knee Museum.  Sobering description of the massacre that occurred there.  On our way back, we stopped by Rapid City to see some friends who have settled there.  Kelsey and Sue have two beautiful children and a nice home.  We ate Elk over bowtie pasta.  Yummy. 

On Tuesday we took off for Cheyenne, WY to visit my Nephew Nathan who is stationed at F.E. Warren AFB.

So far, this trip has given us our first glimpse at the life style we are hoping for as full time RV’ers.  It is a different feeling to see others arrive in campgrounds for a weekend and afterward pack to leave to get back to their homes/jobs knowing that we are at home and can stay a few more days if we feel like it.