Not If, but When

When we started our adventures in the RV, one of the first things we read was to not think “if we have problems on the road, but when.” We thought about that when we started our current adventure on Labor Day.

Captain set the departure time for 11:00 a.m.; we left pretty much on time (11:15 a.m.) About 10 miles down the road, Captain was heard to say “Oh, crap!” In the rear-view mirror he noticed the right side fender skirt was flapping; he forgot to put the nuts back on when he removed the tire covers. So, back home to see if he could find them in the driveway; he did!

In the 45,000 miles we have driven the past 5 years we have had only a few minor mechanical problems, mostly tire issues. Being the proactive, plan ahead kind of guy, Captain thought it was time we buy new tires; so we did. Driving along I-40 the tire pressure sensor began to beep, showing low pressure in the front left tire. We had new tires, so what could it be? Jumping to an obvious conclusion, it was likely a leaking valve stem. “Now why would they not check for leaking valves in the $1800 tire replacement? Ridiculous!” Nothing to do but take it to the tire store in Nashville and have it checked. Tuesday, our scheduled day of rest, Captain took the tire off (not a job for a weakling) and took it to the tire store. Guess what, the valve stem needed to be tightened. No charge!

When we got to the campground at Percy Priest Lake, we did our usual disconnect of Roger (our tow vehicle.) Captain observed that the Brake Buddy had lost all of its pressure; what that means is the thing that activates Roger’s brakes when the RV’s brakes are applied was useless. Most states require such a device in a towed vehicle. So, while Captain was in Nashville taking care of the tire, he went by Camping World and picked up a $970 replacement for the 16-year old Brake Buddy and spent Tuesday afternoon installing it. (We were also advised, RVing is not an inexpensive way to travel.)

ABN spent her day of rest peacefully sewing.

Note from ABN; now some of you that have known Captain for a number of years may be imagining that he was no doubt aggravated and frustrated and in a foul mood. Not so, he was in a very good mood; I think I even heard him whistling at one point. His comment was, “compost (actually he used a different word) happens. We have been fortunate our issues have been minor and easily fixable.” Let’s just call it “the miracle of retirement.”

Percy Priest Lake

Looking forward to seeing the fall colors in the Northeast, but first we will run over to visit our friends in God’s Country.

Resort of the Divine

An all-natural summer resort and short term residence for some of God’s most beautiful creatures, tended by ABN with help from the Captain.

Opened about 13 years ago, the complex has been home to squirrels, raccoons, mosquitoes, bees, birds and a few butterflies. Renovation to attract more butterflies and hummingbirds began about a year ago. We are pleased to see these beautiful little creatures checking out the accommodations; we hope the resort meets their approval and they (well, actually their offspring) will return next year. Let us show you around and introduce you to some of this year’s guests. We would ask you to excuse the messiness, but actually the messiness is part of the plan.

The 24 hour buffet provides an assortment of nectar; in addition to the zinnias, our guests can choose marigolds, Black-eyed Susans, honeysuckle, lantana, dianthus, petunia, milkweed, and various other delicacies. New options are added to the menu frequently (ABN keeps our local nurseries and garden centers in business.)

Reproduction is not only welcomed but encouraged; offspring are provided nourishment of dill, parsley, blueberry bush, milkweed, dandelions, Morning Glories and any of the many weeds they find tasty.

The maintenance area,

building supplies (We pride ourselves in using recycled materials.)

Supplies are currently low due to major construction projects.

and water treatment plant

are located in the back of the complex.

Divine Resort is a summer resort but should our guests wish to leave their offspring over the winter, they are welcome to hang out here.

We have observed and recorded six different species of butterflies visiting over the summer. We would name them but undoubtedly we would misidentify and open ourselves up for correction (and perhaps negative reviews.)

Several hummingbirds have stopped on their way north and on their return to the tropics; hopefully they will consider staying over next summer.

We are proponents of diversity and all most cultures are welcomed

We have to admit, we are not exactly inclusive; we have been known to remove squirrels and raccoons when they insist on vandalizing the property or are excessively greedy. And we are guilty of attempted eradication of mosquitoes.

While the resort is promoted for butterflies and hummingbirds, we do enjoy other birds that stop in for a bath or for a snack.

A new market being developed adjacent to the resort will offer 3 varieties of milkweed, some Bridal Tears, more Black-eyed Susans and perhaps some surprises. 

Conveniently located next to a major breeding ground reproduction center,

 we anticipate an increase in guests and short term residents next season.

Some of our guests are returning to warmer climate, others are hanging around to enjoy a bit of fall. Of course some are looking forward to snuggling up in cocoons for the winter; most will bid this earth good-bye.

As for us, the Northeast is calling and we must go. First stop, Percy Priest Lake near Nashville.

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BAW 2019

After a 4 year hiatus, the BAW (aka Brooks Adventure Weekend) has been revived (and is probably of no interest to anyone other than ABN’s family.)

Fifteen family members (about a 4th as many as in the heyday)

BAW 2006

gathered at ABN’s niece’s weekend cabin in Marble, North Carolina.

The weekend was filled with rafting, corn hole competition,

flea market visits, wine tasting,

panning for gold

sitting on the porch sharing photos and story telling.

And of course eating. (Hats off to chefs, Dave and Sue and all the contributors; the barbecue and Tex-Mex bar were fabulous.)

While reminiscing was great, the highlights were getting to know one of our newest family members, Blake, who married our great-niece about a month ago; 

and sharing the legacy of the Brooks Family to our young great niece and nephew, Samya and Jack.

BAW was the brainchild of ABN’s sister, Mary, as a way to get the family together once a year for fun and adventure. Beginning in 1998, we met at various state parks and resorts to hike, raft, play golf, shop, play games and catch up.

As with every family, change happened. Mary and her husband relocated to Arizona, and four of the six siblings

have passed away and, well it just went by the wayside.  Thinking it is important for family to stay connected, niece, Sue, and nephew, Todd, along with Todd’s wife, Kim revived the tradition. We had so much fun, I think it will continue (at least we hope so.) One of the take-always from the weekend is there is a reason for the “A” in BAW.

We missed the ones that could not attend this year (you were not forgotten and were mentioned with fondness) and we hope you will join us in 2020. Make sure Sue and Kim B. have your contact information so you will know time and date.

Lake Nickajack near Jasper, TN our stop-over campground to and from North Carolina

We are back home, preparing for out next adventure.

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