Test Run

Hidden Cove Resort
Arley, AL


We took this opportunity to travel all of 26 miles to one of our favorite campgrounds .... Hidden Cove in Arley, AL.     The purpose of this 4 day trip was to test out our new Grand Design Travel Trailer.

The first day out was a pleasant sunny day.   We managed to sit outside for a spell.   Can not say the same about the remainder of our stay.  That night the winds kicked up, the rains pelted and light hail hit the area.   As Hidden Cove sits on Smith Lake in northern Alabama, it can really get cold there.

Our 3rd day was spent driving back to Cullman, about 36 miles each way where we both had medical appointments.  Len for a knee that is bothering him and me about the continuing pain in hip.  All part of getting old I fear.

On Friday we packed up and came home as planned.

So..... how did the Grand Design hold up?   No leaks, kept us warm on those cold days, everything worked as expected.

How did we like it?    There is a LOT less counter space than our previous RVs.   That is expected as they were much larger rigs and all had center islands.  Going to take some getting used to.

Along with a smaller kitchen comes a RV refrigerator.   We had gotten accustomed to a large residential fridge in our last two RVs.   Not only that ..... I HAVE TO MAKE ICE CUBES.  How primitive.    No ice maker, no water and ice without opening the door.   But since we do have an outside kitchen with small fridge, we are fine.   But too cold to cook outside those few days.

I never cared much for booth seating.  We always had table and chairs.   I like this one though.  It is not the traditional setup with a stationary table and two booths.  This table is movable and the booth is U shaped.   The table is in the down position in this picture.

Len noted that we can move the table closer to the cooking area when more counter space is needed.  Great idea.

We both love the bathroom.  It's roomier than any we've had before.

We were worried about storage space.  However, since we won't be living in the Grand Design but only use it while on NOMADS projects or vacations, it has more than enough.

We purposely got a unit with a bunk house.   There are times when I go searching for a quiet place to rest or sleep.   That will be lessened when Len finally gets this sleep  apnea thing evened out.   But having a bunk room is great for guests and grand kids who travel with us.  Lots of storage in that room.   That is another bunk that folds down over the sofa.

Yes, this will take some getting used to.   Next Saturday is Len's family reunion in Louisiana.  So off to another trip.  Hoping for much better weather.

Early this past week we planted tomato, pepper and cabbage plants.  Expecting to go down to 29 tonight.   In a while we will go outside looking for buckets, flower pots, etc to put over the plants.  Wish we knew that in this area they recommend not planting until April 15.   We were too anxious I suppose.

Until next time.