MORE FROM GREAT FALLS

Our last 2 days have been busy. Denny washed the rv and I cleaned the inside. Our wagon master (Phil and Sue Schaaf) and tail gunner (Jim and Betty Lenneman) came over and introduced themselves and pretty soon were busy putting decals on the front and back of the rv and the car. They are so personable and cracked a lot of jokes. Also, our car had a squeak in it where the tow bar attaches and they helped him tighten some bolts up. They made a suggestion to put some wire behind the vent opening for the radiator to keep rocks from flying in and knocking a hole in the radiator. So that PM, off we went to Home Depot. A place Denny was hoping not to see for a while. We took Rudy and of course everyone had to stop and pet him.

Friday PM we had an impromptu social for those who had already arrived. This is going to be a GREAT BUNCH! Lots of laughter and stories. Just about everyone had some kind of incident on the way up. There are only about 3 0r 4 of us who have not made a trip with Adventure before. The average is around 3 with 2 couples having 5 and 10 adventures. Speaks well.

Yesterday, Sue and Betty came and gave us all our info and a brief orientation. I must say we were impressed with the first class way everything was organized. They started by giving us lightweight windbreaker jackets with Adventure on them and then a really nice Adventure backpack which will really come in handy. We also received our name tags (including Rudy), our trip logs (which detail the routes we will be taking each day along with good places to stop and rest, buy gas or eat lunch. Behind each day is a blank sheet of paper for notes or a journal. Nice touch. They also gave us the bible for this trip-THE MILEPOST! This is a tool that everyone who goes to Alaska knows is a must have for details on what to expect at every mile. It even starts in Great Falls. We filled out our medical and personal info as well. Very good meeting.

After that meeting, Denny and I ran to Wal-Mart for a few groceries, came back and he put some more antifreeze in the radiator and installed his wire mesh, while I put away the groceries and started washing clothes.

Jim, our TG(tail gunner) stopped by again and did another inspection of the RV. The most complete inspection we have had on any previous caravans I must say. This group is very professional, but a LOT of fun. They are very upbeat. It is going to be a fun trip.

My washing machine is acting up like it did last year at the start of the Maritime trip. I think in the morning we will flip a breaker and try and reset it. That worked last time.

Another impromptu social this PM and had a chance to meet new people who came in today. Interesting group.

Sunday morning, Denny and I are going to Church. We found a Southern Baptist church not too far from the campground. It may be our last chance for a while depending on where we are.