We soaked up sunshine and warmth of Florida for just over 7 weeks. We enjoyed it as much as possible since our next destination was was going to be the total opposite. That’s right folks, even though it was mid-February, we were heading north!
We exchanged hugs with our friends and pulled out of Lithia Springs Park around 11am. Our first stop was a Walmart in Tifton, GA. Bill got us parked and we went inside to see what there was to see. It was an average Walmart, nothing exciting.
Next stop on our northern path was the Elks Lodge in Atlanta. Bill parked us and I texted my cousin Teddy to let her know we had arrived.
We had a wonderful evening visiting with Teddy, Bruce, Noam and Burt. I love that we get to drop in on family as we travel around. Thanks again for everything!
On our way to Atlanta, Bill had noticed, on our TPMS, one tire was showing low in air, not really low, just a little, so before we left in the morning he checked it. Sure enough it was low, and when he looked at the tire, he found the culprit to be a nail.
Within a half an hour, he had the tire off and we were at Goodyear Tire, less than a mile away. While we waited the 45 minutes for them to fix the tire, we walked over to Panera Bread for some breakfast.
When we went back to Goodyear, they tire was nearly ready, so Bill went to the counter to settle up. Imagine our surprise when the balance was $0! We left them a nice tip and went on our way!
While any delay of plans can be annoying, this one was painless. Me being me, my first thought was of how bad that could have been if the TPMS hadn’t alerted us to a possible problem. We have Goodyear H rated tires, which generally don’t blow, but I’d hate to be the exception to that rule.
Next up was the Elks Lodge in Greensboro, NC. They have a huge parking lot for dry camping. We went in to the bar to have a drink. As always, we found the members to be very friendly and welcoming.
When considering our route into PA, specifically around the DC/Baltimore area, I had reached out to friends, Gene & Eileen and also Chris & Frank, to ask their advice. They both either currently live or used to live in the area.
Chris & Frank replied by inviting us to come stay the night near them in Prince Frederick. You may remember them as they are blog readers and they visited us when we worked at County Oaks in NJ. They are planning to begin their full-time life when they both retire from their careers later this year.
We had a nice dinner at a local pub, and Chris served yummy carrot cake for dessert back at their place. We talked well into the evening before turning in for the night.
We didn’t leave hungry the following morning, as Chris & Frank made us an awesome breakfast of eggs, pancakes and bacon. We clarified directions and exchanged hugs before heading out on the final leg of our trip.
Since it was a Sunday, we had an easy ride around Baltimore, arriving in Lancaster a short 3 1/2 hours later. It was COLD – but you’ll have to wait to hear about that next time!
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Brings back great memories. We had such a great time when you visited us. Looking forward to the next time. I know you are not loving this cold and all the snow but I am sure your grand baby makes everything much better. Makes it worth it. So happy for you and Bill.
Thanks again for all your hospitality! We also look forward to our next visit! And – you are so right – being here with Freya makes it all worthwhile!
Congratulations again! I know that you are so excited about the little one and that makes the trip oh so worth it. Before I knew it, you two were out of FL. I did not realize about the picnic in Lithia Springs, but hopefully next time we can plan to participate.
Thank goodness for the TPMS. That could have been so much more difficult. Love the repair cost.
Thanks! We are so excited!
Sorry, I didn’t know you were in FL or I totally would have reached out!
The whole tire thing sure could have been way worse! As I said – H tires don’t usually blow – but would never intentionally test that!
We were very surprised and thankful about the cost!
Glad the tire worked out so well. I noticed that you visited the Elks Lodge in ATL. How was that? Is it in a good area of town?
It’s in an ok part of town, but parking is odd, in the middle of a busy parking lot. Everyone is friendly. There is an elderly couple who essentially live there (they’ve been there at least 3 years) due to health issues – the gentleman is very nice and helpful. It’s ok for a night or two. We stayed there only to visit family. Only CG option is Stone Mountain – which is nice.
Thanks for the info. I didn’t think there were many campgrounds in the area. I did not think about Stone Mountain and will have to check it out.
Be safe and have fun. Thanks for telling us about the Amazon link. Headed to shop there now. God bless.
Thanks Barbara! We appreciate it!
We had the exact same tire experience years ago. Kale Tire in BC said no charge on the trailer flat. He just said please remember us the next time you buy tires, and I have…6 22.5” truck tires! I also wouldn’t be without a TPMS as it saved our butts on that slow leaking flat.
Those are HUGE tires! We are so glad we have the TPMS – Bill has thought about adding it to the truck tires.
Not all that bad because most of the USA had rather cold weather. Makes us appreciate the more moderate climes. Enjoy.
We sure do appreciate the warmer climates in the winter, but this year we made an exception!
I’m sure the warmth of friends and family compensate for some of that cold weather. When it’s cold and wet outside, you seem to have friends/family most places you land to keep the warmth inside. Have the cherry trees started to blossom? That is one of my fond memories of DC.
Hi Jeff! You are SO right! Being with family MORE than makes up for the cold! Great perspective!
I think it’s still early for cherry blossoms – I think that’s usually April. I’ve only seen them once or twice and they are so beautiful! If you haven’t been, Winchester VA has an Apple Blossom Festival at the end of April – it’s so fun!
Always wonderful getting to catch up with family along the way!
We haven’t “needed” our TPMS so far, but knowing we have it gives me a lot of piece of mind! Glad yours took care of you.
Hey Jodee! Seeing family/friends along the way is the best!
We hadn’t “needed” ours before either – but so glad we have it!
I think we are the only two people crazy enough to venture north this time of year! Good catch on the low tire, that could have been a lot worse!
I think you are right! But we both have good reasons, right?
I am so grateful for the TPMS! Saved the day!
So glad you got to see Teddy and Bruce, his dad, and what a handsome young man Noem has turned out to be. Of course he was always a good looking kid as well! I miss them.
He is a very handsome and serious young man – very confident! It was awesome to see them, as always! I’m sure they miss you too! I know I do!
Ditto
If and when we get back on the road, we will join an Elks Club. Reading your blog has convinced me it would be a money saver and possibly a source of entertainment. Good for Goodyear! A little bit of good customer service goes a long way.
Hey Gino! There’s a couple of good Lodges not too far from you now. One in particular is known for good food/drink and a pool – it’s the Bradenton Elks. They don’t have a lot of RV parking, only a couple of spots. Another lodge with more RV parking is the Ruskin Lodge. Check out the annual dues for any nearby – they can vary a lot!
We had an excellent experience with Goodyear – it’s how all business should be! We wrote them a really nice review – they deserved it!
p.s.: let us know when you want to join and we will sponsor you!
Will do, but it will be awhile. Thanks!