Time to hit the road with the new motorhome! Since returning with the new rig in April we have only used it twice and for weekend outings only. This will be a break-in trip for El Phaeton as we motor to our “Northern Kids” in Fort Smith, NWT. The trip is about 1400 kilometers with about 150 kilometers over gravel road. Needless to say I’m wondering about how the new coach will like gravel… hmmm…We travel to a roadside turnout north of High Level on the first day. Nice weather; the drive is easy. We stopover at a roadside turnout as the campgrounds in High Level are full with people living year round in their RV’s; housing is at a premium in Alberta.
It was a good choice of an overnight spot as the highway traffic is light so it was most quiet. We arise to some low lying fog but after a great breakfast – wow with the generator we can have the full meal deal toast and all the trimmings, take a short walk and enjoy the fall colors.
After traveling a short distance the weather changes to a light rain which proves ominous as we have rain and snow pretty much of the time for the next two weeks. We stop at the border for our customary photos at the 60th parallel
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While it is raining lightly the drive is easy and the motorhome is purring along nicely. We are both so comfy in our coach seats that the distance seems much shorter this trip:)
On the gravel highway between Hay River and Fort Smith we choose to stop for lunch at Nyarling River. It was a nice break - out for a stretch.
We arrive at Dave and Diane’s at about 3 pm where we were greeted by Diane, Sarah and of course our newest granddaughter Taylor Rose! After many warm welcomes we still had plenty of time to set up the rig in the driveway. Sarah had some confusion when meeting "Grandma" as she had only hours before said good-bye to "Grandma" Seals. Diane's Mom had been with the family for several months, helping out before and after the baby. It didn't take long before Sarah figured it all out.
It was a wonderful two weeks of time with everyone. We visited Mitchell and Hannah’s school and spent some time in each of their classrooms and participated in the Terry Fox Day walk with them and their classmates. Mitchell and Hannah had two sleep- overs with us in the motorhome and intiated the spare bed.
It is a very busy household to say the least. Early to rise – Mitchell and Hannah off to school every day.
After that we can give full attention on Sarah- one month before turning 2 years old and with lots of "get up and go" and Taylor (3 months).
At about 3:30 pm the school bus arrives and parents shift into survival management mode providing snacks, play time, supper, helping with homework, school lunch preparation, getting ready for bed, bedtime stories, and finally bed by 8:30 pm. 
At that point when all is going well only Taylor remains to be fed and rocked to sleep. It is a good thing Dave & Diane have lots of energy as Grandma & Grandpa were tuckered out and in bed shortly after 9 o’clock each day.On the 15th we celebrated “Christmas in September” in the RV. Yes it was complete with Christmas Trees, twinkling lights, tree ornaments, presents and for real snow….
The grandkids treated us to a fashion show afterward to show off the new duds! Christmas is fun anytime with grandkids! 
We had a wonderful time with everyone and give special thanks to Dave and Diane for making it so. It was not easy heading off back home. With our winter travel plans and their need to stay close to home we will stay connected by phone and Skype video until next year.
As an added bonus we encounter a wood buffalo on the road to Hay River. Needless to say we waited until this one was well clear of the roadway and then proceeded slowly to move by. We think he thought we were just one of the herd….
As an added bonus we encounter a wood buffalo on the road to Hay River. Needless to say we waited until this one was well clear of the roadway and then proceeded slowly to move by. We think he thought we were just one of the herd…. 
