April 1, 2021
I’m off on my first, though short, overnight trip in my new van. My first stop was in Sierra Vista, where I had a wonderful Mexican lunch with my old friend Art Nieto. Then I had a scenic tour of Fort Huachuca, which was my first unplanned “DeeTour” and first of what I’m sure will be many interesting stories. It seemed the shortest route to where I was going was to go right through the Army post. This necessitated my stoping at the gate and getting a visitor’s pass, even though I wasn’t actually “visiting.” But it’s the military, what I say. My GPS evidently did not have the proper security clearance for access to all the roads on post, so I made a few wrong turns before ever getting out the opposite gate. It probably took me 45 minutes or more to find my way outta there!
Then a winding, narrow road finally took me to a Harvest Host location in Sonoita, AZ. Harvest Host is a great resource wherein private businesses, and in some cases, public buildings, allow RVs to park overnight for free, in exchange for spending a few dollars at their establishment. It seems to be mostly breweries, wineries and pubs, but there are so many other options, as well. I figure, I’m going to eat anyway and spend money, so I might as well do it where I can park for free.
So I’m at a winery. However with all my detours and delays, I arrived after it had closed. There were two other RVs parked here though, and the occupants of one said I’d been expected and to just park anywhere. So I’m on a hill in the middle of nowhere, with gorgeous views all around, but, (sniff) no wine, and no food for sale. I did bring some provisions with me, so I’ll have a sandwich and water, and just enjoy sitting outdoors a while, watching the sunset.
I’m not sure what I’ll do tomorrow; maybe just go back home, if I can’t find another camping spot, but I’ll figure it out as I go. I’m just excited to be out on my first adventure!
