Dec 14 – It's All About Kevin

 Rising relatively early to some frigid temp made for an early departure from Ft. Stockton, TX. The Toad had frost on the front windshield. As part of the departure steps the Smitanic was guided into position to top off the LP Gas. Several nights of low temps had the furnaces working thru the night resulting in the need for some additional Propane to ensure there was plenty for any additional cold nights. The planned route for the day would exit Texas, enter New Mexico as well as mountain time. This was like the Fall back experience that allows for an extra hour for the day.

Theresa drove first continuing on the I-10 Autobahn with little traffic nor major cities to navigate. Kevin took over at the gas stop and calculated the previous day's gas consumption at 5MPG. He attributed it to hills and headwinds. Theresa made contact with Mike and Terri Lewellen to see if they and the Smit's could catch up on days gone by once the Smitanic was near Phoenix Az area. Kevin and Mike worked together in the late 70's as computer programmers for IMT insurance in Des Moines, IA. Theresa also made contact with Tiffiny, Kevin's cousin, to see if they could also spend time with her in the Phoenix area.

The miles flew by and with an extra hour on the clock the goal of the Little Vineyard RV in Deming, NM was easily obtained. During check in Theresa got info on a local Winery, St Clair, which was a short drive down the road. The RV park was sparsely occupied which was a surprise for a $26 camp fee for 50 amp, full hook up including cable and indoor pool w/spa. The Smitanic was quickly installed into it's assigned slot, and the grill was retrieved from the 'basement' compartment for the evenings dinner plans.

The early arrival left plenty of time to make it to the winery, where the tasting soon turned into a party with Kevin as the center of attention. Theresa shared the Vivino app on her iPhone.  The Sommelier, Megan, had not seen the app before and was thrilled to see it. After a Major purchase that may or may not make it back to NC, it was back to the RV to make Dinner.

The attempt of grilling steaks and veggies on the grill was futile due to the declining temps as the Propane regulator froze up causing the flame to die. The evenings meal was transported inside to finish on the stove.

Tomorrows plan is to make it to the west side of Phoenix (about 360 miles) and stay thru Monday night. This will be our penultimate day of driving to reach our CA destination of Banning. Whoohoo!