Diane and I just purchased a used travel trailer (trying to get our retirement ducks in a row) and decided that our first trip should be to the GPAA gold show in Fresno. After arriving in the RV park (which was one step away from a swamp due to the recent rains) we managed to get the trailer leveled and most of the appliances working. The hot water heater was cranky and I did not get it going until the second day. Undaunted, we sallied forth to the show intending to arrive at least a half an hour early to have a chance at the vials of gold given to the first 100 customers. Upon arrival, we were surprised to see a line of people already extending 400 yards from the entrance...(so much for the gold vials). The show was packed with 1200 people and the crowds around some vendors tables were three deep. My friend Rob (who owns 49'er mining supply) was inundated with business so I got behind the counter to give him a hand....and ended up working there all day selling maps, crevassing tools and demonstrating the blue bowl. Sunday was a bit slower which allowed Diane and I to trade off behind the counter and check out the show.I had arranged to meet with some forum members and was glad to talk with Mike and Vini in person (see pics identifying them in my gold show video) Unfortunately, I did miss out on meeting some other members who attended (we will have to get T-shirts or secret recognition buttons to wear next time)The fact that I was helping out a friend probably saved me a bunch of money because I was salivating over some of the dredges, finishing sluices and trommels at the show.The trip back up the mountains to our home near the north entrance of Yosemite was solid rain and wind (no fun when you are pulling a 22 ft trailer). The 150 mile trip took 5 hours and left me with a case of the yips and twitches. But all was well, we arrived home safe and are looking forward to our next adventure.Rickhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mokkjIGsukY
IT was really nice to meet Rick and his wife matter of fact I was just in Groveland this last weekend and we didn't get a chance to hook up but we will for sure, that is some absolutely beautiful country and you can literally smell the gold :) and see the long history of gold mining, its ALL OVER them thar hills. Priest grade was not fun coming down gave me the heeby jeeby's.
Always good stories on first adventures in new trailer , motorhome, ect. you will have good times. Not only gold mining but seeing the country. you can go places and spend the night where there is no motels. We hav down sized to a Lance camper on our truck. (It Has a potty and a shower) A MUST......Poor motorhome sitting until we decide to do with it. Have fun and take lots of pictures where ever you good. good memories forever....Jane
Comments
Thanks for the video and gold-show report.
Heavy Pans,
faaus