We are now at our last stop in Florida — how quickly the month has gone!
We hit the road this morning in a northwestly direction, headed for the Florida panhandle — the "Emerald Coast," or as it used to be called, "Redneck Riviera." Our campsite upon arrival was an awesome surprise — one never quite knows what one will "get" when making reservations, but we are parked about eight feet from the Gulf of Mexico. Beautiful! Pictures to come.
It was a lengthy drive here, with only one stop planned along the way:
Bates RV, a great store for Airstreamers!
We've seen their ads in
Airstream Life magazine, knew that they are one of the biggest Airstream dealers in the country, even recognized their billboard with the cute real half-Airstream cutout.
The first thing we saw there was the Vintage Airstream Village, which transported us back to the early days of the "Silver Twinkie." Little rigs from the 1940's-60's are perched in a circle, with the requisite pink flamingoes gracing the path. So cute!
The Parts Department (the Buglet needed a few small things) was impressively efficient, the young woman behind the counter leaving for only a moment and returning with D-rings, replacement light lens, new propane detector, etc.
We're not accustomed to such great customer service from our —
ahem — Maine dealership. Seeing us eye the Airstream-related goodies on display, she recognized us for the suckers we are, and brought out logo'ed key-chains, hats, t-shirts, watches, coffee mugs, and even pajamas. Many of which of course we bought. Big commission for her today!
Afterward, it was necessary to do pilgrimage to the nearby Airstream Stonehenge, known here as the "
Airstream Ranch" (after the similar "Cadillac Ranch" in Texas). This place is practically holy ground to 'Streamers, who are now battling town officials who consider this longtime mecca an "eyesore." We are on the Airstream side, of course.
Which means that we also bought two matching "Save the Airstream Ranch" t-shirts. Such a good cause!
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