Granted, we had no difficulty in reading the directions, nor did we have difficulty in understanding the verbal directions when we called... twice. The issue isn't the directions, they are correct (if you know where you are), the issue is the lack of road markings.
Needless to say, we encourage Starlite Trailer Lodge to revisit their directions and embellish with landmarks. Else, we feel they should start providing guided tours from Lenoir to Globe so the new campers will be happier in arriving on their first trip. It isn't fun or safe to pull a trailer through the mountains when you are not certain of where your next turn should be, in the dark and rain.
Unfortunately, we had to complete a u-turn in the middle of a dirt road without 'backing up' as we did not want to lose Stella off the side of the mountain. All apologies to the person(s) whose yard we somewhat drove through to make this elaborate u-turn. Did I mention it was dark and raining? There are no street lights in the mountains.
Once we arrived, I let Mel take over in the communications department with the folks at Starlite, as I was eager to bite a nail in half after the drive and that u-turn. We were given our 'spot', #34. I successfully backed Stella into her 'spot' and began the 'set' up process. The only issue we ran into in the 'set-up' was the electronic jack decided to stop working. The fuse blew. Stella stayed hitched for the weekend.
I applaud the folks that came over and attempted to help; however, being the stubborn person that I am I refused their help and thanked them as I sent them on their way. As Mel ventured inside Stella to set up, I finished setting her up on the outside in the rain with a dying flashlight. Although Mel did venture out a few times to assist with the awning, which we ended up waiting until the next morning to get that set up correctly.
The next day was quite cold and overcast. We made breakfast (biscuits and bacon), I drank coffee from a cup (no mug to be found), and we started the crock pot of chili so it could simmer all day. Might I add here that the chili was GREAT. Although Mel has suggested we have salt & pepper, and other spices on hand in Stella so next time she can add things at 'will'. But again, the chili was GREAT!
We made a few walks around the camp ground. Took a nap, played cards, watched a movie, did I mention we took a nap? I found the folks that I had sternly dismissed the night before and offered many apologies.
We ventured over to our neighbors and crashed their afternoon gathering. Mel played corn hole and I watched a bit of the NCSU/Boston College game and hung out by the fire pit to stay warm with Billy, Allen, Beth, Ellen, Carol, Jennifer, and Vicky.
Most all raved about Stella and wanted a 'tour'. I believe she now has many 'fans' at the Starlite. We ended up sharing our chili with Beth, Ellen, and Carol and they shared that delicious pot roast (onions and carrots) and mashed potatoes! YUMMY!
As I watched NASCAR with Billy and Allen, Mel played a 'dice' game with the girls and a few others who's names are escaping me. After cleaning up the lodge kitchen, we had an early evening and were quite content.
On Sunday morning we decided to break camp and meander back home. Billy provided us with alternative directions that should carve off traveling time. Which it did, however, we are not sure how much as we do meander when we return home. Even if we are not sure of the amount of time it shaved off the trip, I can say that it was a beautiful ride and quite easy. So kudos to Billy!
So we have learned that we need a new GPS system that can be load with specific directions and guidance in the comfort of home or learn how to make the current one work better (maybe waypoints???), back up fuses, salt and pepper (and other spices), coffee mug, bowls, and dawn dish washing detergent.
Starlite Trailer Lodge we enjoyed our stay and will eventually venture back.
