J.J. and I can't believe that we really have our RV home. We started to plan our one-year sabbatical nearly a year ago. Our plan was crystallized during our one-month sojourn in the Philippines in January and February 2014.
I have to take my hat off to J.J. for doing research, comparing qualities, features, ideal size for us and prices and finally decided on the Roadtreck. To say that we are thrilled seems like an under statement. We are EXHILARATED!!!
Our morning began with a breakfast at Motel 6 where we spent a night. This was the closest motel to the RV dealer where we are to get our paper work, so we did not have much choice of our accommodation. J.J. reminded me that on our very first trip to Europe about 18 months after we got married, he and I took a 7-month long holiday. At that time, our budget was limited and we traveled by Eurail. Our lodging likewise had to be under a tight budget and we followed Frommer's Guide to Europe for $35 per day per person. The first night we spent in Luxemburg was a "dump". I recall crying why did we saved so hard and came so far only to stay in such a horrible place. Well, that was the worst hotel we ever stayed during that trip and things got better as the days went by.
After spending about 3 hours at the dealer, we were on our way. J.J. drove one of their dealer's car while one of their personnel drove our new home to Reno,
Donner Pass is over 5,000 ft elevation. On the summit, there were a lots of snow and we found it too cold to use the restroom at the Rest Stop.
It took us approximately 5 1/2 hours to drive from Gilroy, CA to Reno Nevada including 60 minutes for short lunch and a quick snack stop.
We took actual possession of our RV home in the parking lot of the shopping center after we signed all necessary documents and had them notarized for California Department of Motor Vehicle and for South Dakota Department of Motor Vehicle at the UPS Store.
After we got a full tank of diesel fuel (about $100 for a full tank) we were on our way.
We were given three books to read about our RV home. Even though J.J. had driven a similar vehicle in Europe, nearly 30 years ago, now with so many of its functions are computerized that we need some time to become comfortable.
Found our accommodation in Siena, Hotel Spa and Casino in Reno, Nevada and celebrated our first day of RV life (well not really yet) with wonderful dinner.
Tomorrow, we will be driving more than just a few miles.
Aloha -- Cathi