Please step out of the vehicle...

I'm kind of famous at our house for leaving things in my luggage that ensure that I get to spend quality time with our airports first line of defense, TSA. Luckily, I've never been delayed so long I missed my flight or gotten to see the inside of one of those little rooms.

Usually, I've forgotten something in my carryon. So far we have an allen wrench, corkscrew (it was new), small knife with scissors (I did get to keep it since my friend had snapped off the blade) and most recently a large bottle of water. I couldn't believe I left that in my bag. Luckily, the young man tested me for bomb residue, took the bottle and advised me to "stay out of trouble". Easier said than done.

Given my history, I will be giving considerable attention to the task of making sure there is no contraband in the RV that could hold us up at the Canadian Border crossing. I'll be checking every drawer, cabinet, bin and under all furniture for anything prohibited.

I've been reviewing the Canadian Border Services Agency website for the most current information. I'll be checking it several times for updates.

While we were in Tampa, we were lucky enough to attend a seminar presented by Ron Jones, author of RVing to Alaska. He has a wealth of information about traveling to/from and within Alaska, crossing the Canadian border and about camping along the way. One of my biggest take-a-ways was the feeling that anyone can do it.  

I'm almost sure that includes me.

Gimme some water...

So one of the things Craig wanted to do was install a new water pump. Of course, in order to reach it, you had to take off the front panel. And that had to be done in two pieces. 

Taking it apart was fairly easy. But as is the way of RV gear heads, while the cover is off...

Now there will also be some new fittings and tubing, new o-rings and gaskets, SeeLevel Gauges, revised panel layout and access, and other things still to be determined.

We love having a place to work on projects. But it came with a price. There just aren't any stores around for the inevitable items that pop up, some of which are showstoppers. 

Amazon.com to the rescue. 

And so we wait...

Back from Yahoo Monaco...

This past week we attended a Yahoo Monaco Rally in Tampa, FL. Craig was invited to give a presentation with a friend and fellow RV nut about the steering and handling characteristics of the Roadmaster chassis. 

The presentation went very well and we made some amazing new friends. But it's great to be back home. Especially after a long day of driving in the wind. As always, Craig did a great job.

Now the prep work starts in earnest. We both have lists and are checking them twice.

Craig's list starts with installing locks so that he can access all the compartments. There were a couple of doors that were hinged, but screwed shut. As with any RV, you want to use every little bit of space there is. Enter the tubular lock. He is installing them today, with exacting precision, as usual.

He always smiles when he has a project.

Let's get this party started...

The first thing we did when we decided to go to Alaska was order the ubiquitous Alaska books and maps. I chose these, but there are others, many others. I've been reading like crazy, making lists and organizing. 

For those that know me, I have a little Type A problem. If you haven't seen it yet, you will. Please be kind and know that I mean well.