Down off the mountain top we came and back on the road. We were heading now to the first of two major stops for us. These two stops were the whole reason for this trip up the East coast. We were on our way, first, to Maryland to attend our daughter Amanda’s wedding. And then on into New Jersey for something special.
So, time to get moving. Out of the campground and onto Route 64 west and once again we had to climb a mountain. A really long and steep one this time. This was the first time I had to gear down manually to keep the RPM’s up and so keep the engine temperature in an acceptable range. This, however, would not be the last mountain we had to climb. There were several more on Route 81 heading north, however, Elvira handled each and every one of them with ease.
The further north we went the clearer it became to me why I absolutely detest driving on the east coast. People in these parts seem to believe an RV is a great, big moving target that they love to mess with. Not to mention no one seems to know how to merge onto a highway. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any worse, we made the turn east onto Route 71 toward Baltimore and I swear it was like a stock car race with Elvira stuck in the middle. I’m not looking forward to the trip into and back out of New Jersey.
Then, just when I really thought it couldn’t get any worse it definitely did. Our GPS had us getting off at Exit 76 for the campground, however, at exit 73 was the sign for Ramblin Pines. A quick call to the campground and the answer was sure you can get off there, just follow the signs. What they forgot to tell us, is once you got off at that exit, there was one sign and not another directing you to the campground. Oh, our GPS eventually got us there but I never, no never want to ever go down the roads again it took us on. In your mind’s eye think rural, one lane, back water roads. At one point I honestly thought I was going to snag someone’s electric or phone wire or whatever and rip it down. I still don’t know how we missed doing that.
We eventually made it to the front gate, yup, the front gate that was down. Instructions on the post said just push the white button and we’ll let you in. So, I slid open the drivers side window and proceeded to crawl halfway out the window so I could reach the button.
So, here we are.
Our site is gravel, back in, not even long enough for the rig and the car, and of course it isn’t level. Satellite friendly? South is in the direction of the trees in the back so that’s that. Not one satellite can be found. Of course the price of the site requires you to give an arm and a leg. But folks they know they are the only game in town so you really have no choice.
OK, we’re not here to sightsee, but rather to assist our daughter Amanda in getting ready for her wedding, then I’ll have the wonderful privilege of actually doing the ceremony. As for the assist part, Ms. Barbara is already off and running. Today, she left around 8 am and she’ll hopefully be back tonight in time for supper. If not, Proton and I will enjoy the meatballs ourselves!
Thanks again for spending some time with us. It’s always great to be able to share our story with family and friends. Comments? Feel free to share them with me. And always remember, cherish every moment of every day that God gives you and live those moments to the fullest.
Time to again start making our way North. For the next several days we would be doing daily hops, each about 4 hours in length. We planned to leave no later than 10 am each day which would have us off the road before the real heat of the day set in.
Hop One, Buck Hall Recreation Area to Swamp Fox Campground, SC, July 13th
Thursday morning we said goodbye to Buck Hall. Our route was north on Route 17, then west on Route 521, finally to Route 95 north. The roads proved to be in great condition, traffic was minimal and we rolled along with no issues.
We continue to run the generator while we travel which allows us to use our rooftop A/C units as well as make meals if we wish in the Crock Pot.
In due time we arrived at Swamp Fox Campground and immediately I began to wonder why in the world I ever chose this campground. It was old and dated, but clean and neat. Customer service though was first rate. The site, however, was just barely big enough for the rig and the car. Come on now, the whole point of a pull through is that you can keep your car connected. If I had had a larger car it would have had to be disconnected. Okay, electric and water hooked up Ms. Barbara made supper and we settled in for the evening.
Hop Two, Swamp Fox Campground to Enfield/Rocky Mount KOA, NC, July 14th
Friday morning we were in no rush simply because there wasn’t a whole lot to do before we got on the road. We had our breakfast, packed up a few odds and ends, completed our checklist and were ready to head out on the road again.
This would be straight Route 95 from start to finish. Early on everything was going great – if not a bit boring. But that soon changed as all traffic came to a complete halt. And so we sat for 45 minutes. Oh, we inched forward a few feet at a time every now and then but basically we just sat. Then just like that everyone started moving again. What caused the hold up? We could never figure it out. We never saw emergency vehicles. Nor any debris that would have indicated an accident occurred. But then we looked across and noted the same was happening in the south bound lanes. Traffic would be flowing freely and then just like that you would see it all bunch up and come to a crawl if not a stop. Beats me. Rolling road blocks by the state police maybe as a way of keeping the speed down?
After a quick stop at a Mud Flap station for discounted diesel fuel we were soon at the KOA I had chosen for our next stop. Now, I usually avoid KOA’s like I avoid the plague but this one was really nice and reasonable. It was clean, well taken care of, lots of green grass and the pull through site was long and level. This one also had really friendly and helpful folks at the front desk. It brought a big smile to my face. I hooked up the electric and came inside for supper. Later we would play some cards, listen to some music and then it was down to get some much needed rest.
Hop Three, KOA to Misty Mountain Camp Resort, VA, July 15th
Time to do it all over again. Another four hour hop to our third and final stop before we headed into Maryland. Once again we took our time doing the last few things we needed to do, went over our checklist and then we were on our way.
We went north on Route 95, part way into Richmond, and then headed west on Route 64. It was another easy trip but I forgot just how hilly Route 64 was. Reminded me of the song the bear went over the mountain and what do you think he found – another mountain. In this case not real mountains, just rolling hills all along the way.
Soon enough I was making the turn into the campground. We’ve been here before and were not overly impressed but, unfortunately, they are the only game in town in this area. So, here we are again. What would we find this time? Now, I made this reservation back in March and as always asked specifically for a site that would be satellite friendly. Keep that in mind. Well, Barb came out of the office and she was not smiling. Where is our site I wondered. I soon found out. We ended up on the top of the mountain. And when I say the top of the mountain, the road went up, and up, and up and up, around a hairpin turn, a sharp left and finally we were there. The site was long, unlevel and as muddy as can be. And surrounded on all sides by trees. So much for an early request for satellite friendly.
We were going to be here Saturday and Sunday. We both just needed a day of rest so that’s the reason for the two day layover. The only good thing? I got all the utilities hooked up and no more than finished and got in and the heavens opened up and it didn’t stop raining until Sunday morning. Thank you Good Lord.
So, as I sit here and write this it is late Sunday afternoon and we are beginning to make our preparations for leaving tomorrow morning. Tomorrow, it is on to Maryland and our daughter’s wedding.
Thanks again for spending some time with us. It’s always great to be able to share our story with family and friends. Comments? Feel free to share them with me. And always remember, cherish every moment of every day that God gives you and live those moments to the fullest.
It was a Saturday, it was hot, and not a day we would usually go sightseeing. But we threw caution to the winds (Ha, there wasn’t a breeze to be found) and departed for Patriots Point Naval Museum for some sightseeing. A decision which later backfired on us.
Patriots Point is one of the reasons we returned to this area. The last time we were in this area we totally missed it but this time around we were determined to pay it a visit.
What is Patriots Point? The best way to answer that is with a quote from their own promotional literature: Patriots Point Development Authority was established in the 1970s to develop a naval & maritime museum on Charleston Harbor with the World War II aircraft carrier, USS YORKTOWN as its centerpiece. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum serves as a national destination of excellence for the preservation and education of current and future generations about America’s history, traditions and values.
Unfortunately, we got a late start and did not arrive at the Point until 10:30 am. The parking lot was just abut full and the temperature was now in the 90’s. But what the hey, we were here and determined to see as much as we could.
The two main attractions at the point are: The USS Yorktown and the USS Laffey. Each ship is just jam full of things to see and experience. Our goal today was to see the USS Yorktown from bow to stern. I figured it would take about 3 to 4 hours to take it all in.
Time now to go visit the USS Yorktown. But first there was the walk in front of us
down the pier to the USS Yorktown. However, as we were just about to start out we discovered that there was a shuttle service to the ship. Oh, happy, happy, joy, joy! Now, I know for some that walk would have been a hop, skip and a jump and I’m sure we could have made it, but we were not about to refuse the gracious offer of a ride. Not in the prevailing heat of the day.
Finally, onboard the carrier it was time for a quick history lesson.
The USS Yorktown was the the tenth U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier and was named after a prior carrier of the same name that was lost at the Battle of Midway. She was christened on January 15, 1943
and transited the Panama Canal and headed out into the Pacific in July 1943.
It was during her time in the Pacific that the USS Yorktown earned the nickname The Fighting Lady. She was part of one of the largest carrier to carrier battles of World War II.
Her time in the Pacific finished the Yorktown returned home having been awarded the Presidential Unit Citation (issued for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy) and eleven battle stars (commendations issued for meritorious participation in battle) for service during World War II.
So, how did this mighty carrier end up in Charlestown, SC? The carrier was decommissioned in June, 1970 and was placed in mothballs in Bayonne, NJ. In 1975 it was towed to Charlestown to become the centerpiece of Patriots Point.
Time now to go exploring throughout the ship.
The USS Yorktown offers access to the following places: living and working spaces; the engine room; the hanger bays; the flight deck and the bridge; the wardroom; and, the catapult room. In addition there were plenty of aircraft to visit. Of course, to access all areas would mean a whole lot of walking and a whole lot of going up and coming down some steep steps.
So off we went. We first went to
flight deck. This was the first and probably the only time I will ever stand on the deck of an aircraft carrier. It is enormous, yet small in comparison to the carriers of today. Yet, standing there I was overwhelmed by the thought of all those who took off from this deck in defense of our countries values and freedoms. Unfortunately, some of those who left from this deck never made it back to the safety of the carrier. A vivid reminder for me that freedom is never free. It requires the courage and sacrifice of those who are willing to give their all to preserve it.
Next, it was time to tour the inside of the carrier. Let me share with you some of the places I made it to.
A place near and dear to my heart, the galley where hot meals were prepared on a regular basis. Indeed, it was here that food for 3,500 sailors was prepared day in and day out. Think about that. Maybe some of us have large family gatherings around Thanksgiving – oh maybe at most a dozen – but we’re talking about 3 meals a day for 3,500 individuals.
One of the favorites for those on board we learned was chocolate chip cookies.
And I for one got quite a kick out of seeing the mixer
they used to blend all those ingredients together. I don’t think it would quite fit on the counter of Elvira! But I do see a glass of chocolate milk and chocolate chips cookies in my future!
I next made my way to the hanger deck.
And from there it was time to start going up. Up,
to the bridge of the carrier and other parts in that vicinity. Well, as I learned when I toured other great ships of this size, there is only one way to get up there – a series of rather steep steps. So, I began the climb.
Along the way,
I passed the ready room. I spent a few minutes just sitting in one of the chairs trying to imagine what it must have been like being briefed for a mission into the teeth of the enemy. I’m sure each and every one who sat in one of these chairs never doubted that they would be successful and return without an issue. But still? I can tell you from experience that there was always that little nagging voice in the back of your head before you began a mission. You just couldn’t escape it.
I also passed the air traffic control room. It was the responsibility of those in this room to successfully launch and retrieve the planes assigned to the carrier. Regardless of the weather.
After a lot of climbing, a whole lot of climbing, I finally made it to the bridge. This is where it all happened. Those in this room carried the tremendous weight of command on their shoulders. This is where critical decisions were made, and orders were given that would decide the whole fate of the carrier.
Looking forward out of a bridge window. From here one could clearly see each aircraft as it was launched off the carrier and into battle.
Time to move on. But it was not to be. Two hours in and the heat and humidity had gotten to me. I knew I had to call it quits or they would be carrying me out and back to our car. I absolutely hated to give up so early but maybe, just maybe I’m getting a little wiser with age.
So that was our first day of sightseeing. We have friends to meet in the days ahead and maybe I can find another day to get back to Patriots Point. There is still so much to see.
Thanks again for spending some time with us. It’s always great to be able to share our story with family and friends. Comments? Feel free to share them with me. And always remember, cherish every moment of every day that God gives you and live those moments to the fullest.
The plan for our second travel day was the same as the first, on the road by 7 am and off the road and set up by 12 noon. We wanted to be set up and relaxing with the AC on before the real heat of the day set in.
Did we succeed? Yup. But if anyone sets the alarm again for 5:30 am on this trip they are gong to be disowned.
The trip was an easy, but boring one. We were on major highways the whole way. The only road that gave me some concern was Route 17. Unfortunately, the road has no shoulder so one has to be extra careful not to stray to the right or you’ll be off the road and in the grass in a heartbeat.
Once again we ran the whole way with the generator on and the two roof top A/C’s running and keeping us nice and cool. Unfortunately, our dash A/C doesn’t work that well but with the roof top units running we are nice and comfortable. In addition, this ensures that when we arrive the inside of Elvira is already cooled down. We simply switch from generator to provided 50 amp service and all is well despite the high outside temperatures.
So where are we?
We are at Buck Hall Recreation Area in South Carolina. This is a county park that we have stayed at before. The park is located on the Intercoastal Waterway and is a favorite of those in the area that like to fish.
It is a beautiful park with lots of green space, and lots and lots of room between sites. We have 50 amp electric and water but unfortunately there is no sewer. We’re going to try and make it seven days which we should be able to do before we have to dump our tanks. Time will tell. Helping the situation is the fact that the bath house with some really nice showers is just about 100 feet away. I’ve already verified that the showers are dated but clean, and the water is nice and warm.
Yup, that’s us.
All backed in and slides out, time now to just relax and enjoy life before we begin to do some sightseeing. We’ve had some minor issues to deal with already but that’s life on the road. The only issue we can’t figure out yet is an odd noise coming from our washer. It came at random times during the night waking both of us up every time. Do we have a critter imprisoned in the inner workings? Do we have an electrical problem? That is yet to be determined. Maybe today will be the day we find out. Fingers crossed.
Even Proton approves of our current home. This is his traveling chair, which he is willing to share with Ms. Barbara. Provided she doesn’t take up too much room!
Today was supposed to be a sightseeing day, but since neither of us got much sleep last night we’re going to put it off until tomorrow In addition we want to make sure everything is in order before leaving Proton by himself for the day.
"On The Road of Retirement" 