Cedar Hill State Park Campground Host

Its tough to know when the end of the RVing season arrives here in Texas. We had 27 degree lows last week, blanketed in between two 70 degree weekends. I guess I can’t complain since the cycle is not reversed by freezing temps falling during my days off!

With forcasted lows in the 20’s, it is time to start thinking about “winterizing” my still-yet-to-be-named motorhome. It sure is tough to think of putting her away for the winter while still in the “honeymoon phase.”

I have taken to going out to the driveway after work to just sit with a glass of wine in the quiet.  Loving the quiet coziness, reflecting on the evocative feeling of anticipation of stowing everything in it’s perfect place in preparation for another adventure. Dreaming of the limitless possibilities of a bucket list full of places and pleasures just waiting to be crossed off.

Sunset over Joe Pool Lake

I wanted one last “hurrah” for 2012, so I headed for the neighboring Cedar Hill State Park again for the weekend. I love being able to drive just 10 miles to reach the park, and still marvel that such serenity and solace can be found just 20 minutes outside of the frantic holiday chaos of the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex.

The chaos spills over in the summertime, as this park is a beehive of buzzing boy scout troups, racing jet skis, and overpowered motorboats mixing up an endless chop to the lake, with enough man-made waves to make you woozy just to watch.

Duck Pond Trail Overlook

But not the case in December. Only the die-hards are out. An entire hike around the duck pond and back presents not another solitary soul.

Two lone kayakers on a glassy lake at sunset evoke a feeling of utter tranquility.

Does this REALLY have to be the last weekend?

Kayakers at Sunset

But alas, I have to do the “responsible thing” and put my little playhouse away for the winter.

I spend hours pouring over my options the View Owner’s Manual and the Yahoo View discussion group, as well as my friend Lynne’s helpful “Girl’s Guide to” post, and finally decide that the “Blow Out Procedure” is going to have to do. I found the necessary blow out plug on Amazon — five bucks, plus twice that for shipping in hopes that my postman could beat the declining digits on the thermometer. I borrowed a never before used air compressor from my brother. Finally, a last minute run to Walmart for an extension cord and a gallon of “pink stuff,” and I had what I needed. At least all that could be bought, anyway.

Turns out the “Blow Out Procedure” is not the easiest task for a solo RVer. I did the best I could, running up and down the steps, turning faucets off and on, one by one, filling the sinks with paper towels as a “test” to see if any water was coming through as I carefully calibrated 30 psi through the blow out plug down in the “sewer bay.” Convinced that I was not doing it correctly, I unscrewed the outdoor shower head from the hose and held it up to my face to see if I could feel any air coming through, only to get a face full of ice cold water. Well, at least it wasn’t a test on the black water tank!

I did the best I could do within my ability. It will either work, or it won’t. At least it was “a learning experience” that I can improve upon next year.

Rest well, my little nameless RV…we have an exciting year ahead!

Now, it is time to make my annual trek to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico to see in the 2013 New Year with fireworks and fiesta in the Jardin. I only wish she were coming with me….

Santa’s sleigh is just a myth…it’s really a travel trailer!