A fine day on the back roads to Chattanooga. From Boone into Tennessee on Hwy 321 and with the pull of an info sign found the birthplace Davy Crockett in a small State Park where we had lunch. Millie sniffed around, but never did find Davy.

Continuing south to my first pass through Gatlinburg I was overwhelmed by all the development. So that is where all the GSMNP tourists go! Well, of course I lost Hwy 321 through town, but by misfortune turned good I found a road through the Great Smokeys Park along the Little River back to 321. The winding route was graced with beautiful forest in snow flurries and a few paddlers braving the cold river rapids.

With all the extra excursions, I never did make it to Chattanooga today. By happenstance I found a Forest Ranger closing a gate and he sent me to the Gee campground in the Hiwassee State Park where I spent the night. A great end of the day!

Drove out of Raleigh this morning in a fog and not just in my head. The clouds lifted as well as my spirits after an hour on the road to Boone. Made it over the Continental Divide at the high speed of 35 mph! At least I now know the bus can make it. It’s all down hill now to the Mississippi River. First night out in the bus with snow flurries predicted overnight. Very comfortable in my pop top.

OK, I am being very patient. The bus repairs are underway and should be finished by Monday, February 27, 2012 AD. I will then have a new CD/Radio installed and hit the road to Boone. Must have my tunes to drive with. I am packing light (clothes, camping gear, electronics, dog food, and a harmonica) due to limited storage with the intention of picking up essential needs along the way. 

Wish me luck in getting on the road this time!

Millie can tell something is up with all the packing activity and is ready to go. 

Yes, I am still here because my ride is not yet ready for the road. I am though! Hope to have the blue bus repairs completed this week with a departure by Friday.

First stop will be in Boone to visit Sarah. They had about 4 inches of snow last night. Next stop is Chattanooga, Tenn to visit friends and take photos of the climbing wall in Coolidge Park for Rachel (I have not forgotten). 

Wish me luck on the van repairs. I am itching to get going! 

The hunt is over for the VW Vanagon! I drove this 1990 Orly Blue camping van back from Atlanta to Raleigh without mishap in late January. It is now in the shop getting many rubber hoses, gaskets, and seals replaced as well as a new radiator. Estimated time of departure is around February 20 with a test drive to the coast over the weekend. 

Need to do a little work to get the travel vehicle in shape and then ready to hit the road!