COUNTING THE DAYS

We're into the last few days of our summer stay here at the Grand Canyon. The last work day for both of us is September 9th, and we plan on pulling out of here on September 11th.

When we get back to Lake Havasu City, there will be a multitude of things that need to be done, from getting the house back in order, to getting the motor home serviced, and installing my new stereo system in the Harley. We won't be home very long, as we'll be heading north to Carson City, NV. where we will be hosting a rally for our Golden Spike RV Chapter, beginning on September 29th. As of this morning, there are 13 RV's signed up, with perhaps a few more late comers still to register. I had planned for 20-30 people, and it looks like we'll be within that window. Should be lots of fun, and another great train ride! As we end our almost 4 months of working, and living here in Grand Canyon National Park, I think it's safe to say that it has been an almost entirely enjoyable experience. In no particular order, the positives have been...........

• An RV space with full hookups for $90 a month, + electricity (about the same $ as rent)
  
• Walking distance (about 10-15 minutes) to Patty's work place.
• Almost perfect weather environment - Avg. daytime temps in the 70's & 80's, cooling into the 50's at night.
• Scenery that is unbelievable, and never gets old, including lots of wildlife.
  
• Jobs that provided some challenges, and an equal number of rewards.
• Extra income that padded the bank accounts.

As with anything, there's always two sides to any story, and with our experiences this summer, the negatives have been.............

• No matter how interesting the job may be, punching a time clock gets old.
• Not having the same days off.
• A few days where our work schedules required our dog to stay in the motor home longer than we would have liked.
• Dealing with the public, especially foreign tourists, tends to test your patience.
• Having to drive to Flagstaff for anything other than basics shopping.
  

With everything taken into account, we both agree that we want to return here next summer, working the 3-4 months between mid May and early September. If there's no dramatic changes in the staffing requirements by our respective employers, and no other unforeseen changes, the plan is to be right back here in about 8 1/2 months.