We mobilize with the intention of getting an early start, but as I am attaching Louise to Thelma (the Jeep to the RV), I notice cracks in the weld on the left hand tab on the Jeep’s bumper. This is a big deal, because it’s one of two attachments between the RV and the Jeep when we’re towing it. After inspecting the other tab, I notice a hairline crack in that weld, too.

We checked around the area and found a welder nearby, Gardemal Welding and Fabrication, who was able to look at it on the spot. It is a father and sons operation and they take their time and do a fabulous job rewelding both tabs.

I return to the RV, we hook the Jeep up and finally head off.

It is the first day of school for Jack and Ellie after the Christmas break, so they go online as we drive and Jana and I navigate our way to our next destination.

The trip to Onalaska, TX is really cool as we migrate from larger highways to smaller country roads. We arrive at the KOA in Onalaska which sits on the shore of Lake Livingston. The lake is a massive man-made reservoir. After setting up Thelma, it was almost sunset so we grabbed our paddle boards and went for a sunset paddle on the lake. It was absolutely spectacular!