We went for it and bought the year National Parks pass at the Shanendoa National Park entrance. Maybe we’ll be in Yellowstone when it blows!

Back to the now, we’re camping at Matthews Arm Campground. (Do you also wonder the name’s backstory?) It’s gargantuan and is divided into several districts. These consist of reservable, unreservable, allows generators (during allowed hours), and no generators. Flush toilets, no showers. Outlets in the bathrooms though, which is how we had hot water for our indoor shower!!!!!

That was after a lovely hike on the Trace Trail, the first notable walking in memory. We are both looking forward to more tomorrow.

Along the trail.

We awoke sharply at 7:35 AM from the sound of a car pulling to the front. Help maybe? Another, similar sound from the rear. Trouble? Neither: two guys focused on going fishing and, while not rude, were intent on getting to the river, confidant in our self sufficiency.

Buoyed with their affirmation that, by going slow, we actually could drive with but one rear tire on the right back to cell towers without imploding, we made our way to instigating AAA drama. Meaning having to persuade AAA on whether the bus counts as an RV; their realization that we need a heavy duty tow truck despite paying for RV coverage; learning they don’t provide a spare wheel; and ultimately canceling the service request and driving on to a recommended tire place in Fort Royal with our flat. Yes, we have new tire now.

Post tire took us to the town square where we heated another lunch on the stove, representing the last of the phenomenal beans and lamb. We walked around for a bit, the highlight being the Daily Bread stop, picking up a tasty sticky bun, small pecan pie and a loaf.

It’s cold tonight.