There is a never ending supply of things to learn as we embrace the RV lifestyle…and we learned two important ones today.
First, we learned a lesson in social interaction. We were sorely lacking in a certain social skill. Although we had read blogs about this particular activity, and had even purchased the correct set of tools to participate, we just couldn’t seem to master the task. But all that changed today, for today Kate and Terry taught us how to play Mexican Train! We had a great time learning although I have to say, I think Terry could have shown us a little more mercy. I tell ya folks, Terry stays right on track and allows nothing to derail him. What a kick.
The second thing we learned was probably more important but not as much fun. We came to California to enjoy some sunshine and for several days that is exactly what we have been doing. However today we experienced what the weatherman down here called “showers.” Honey, let me tell you, I am from Oregon and I know the difference between rain and showers and this was R-A-I-N. Wet, drippy, pouring, RAIN!
So what did we learn from this??? We learned that the awning needs to have a VERY steep angle to drain the water - not just a slight downturn on one corner. At breakfast Russ looked out the window and said he needed to check the awning after he ate as it looked a little saggy. Before he could take his first bite, we heard a loud crack and the awning now had an extremely steep angle on one side. The end support pole had given way and was bent at a 90° angle. That dropped the center enough so that Russ could barely get out the door to put the awning away. He finally got it all put away – well, almost. The awning enclosure is sprung just enough so that it is not fully locked in the closed position. Kate and Terry offered some strong Velcro that sticks to itself and can be wrapped around the closed awning to hold it in place.
I guess as long as we are in California we will have to visit the factory and see if we can have it repaired. We have had RVs before and have deployed awnings in “showers”. But this turned out to be a little more than a shower and we should have paid closer attention to the angle. Oh well, live and learn…and at least we did get to learn Mexican Train!
We were so busy today that I forgot to take any pictures. And so here are a couple of Mt. Shasta that I took as we were headed south on I-5 on Sunday.
Goodnight all and happy travels.
