Introducing... Ernestine!

[Auretrvr]

Well, we are finally proud owners of a 310. It was quite the search and we could never have survived it without the generous help so many of you have provided.

We did look at those 290's, but when we considered the small difference in length for the extra space, the 310 works very well. Ernestine is named in honor of the PO, a kind and honest man in SC. She popped up on RV Trader and we pounced. After 2 trips to see units that were not as advertized, we were ready to walk as usual.

The trip itself was an adveture as it was a day of storms and airline burps that held us up in Chicago. After 12 hours we got to bed at 2:30 AM. Up at 7:00 to drive the rest of the way to meet our girl.

And she is beautiful. All systems work (except that dang doorbell and the antenna<g>). There was NO compound curve damage and all manuals and service documentation were there. Interior is in very good condition as it was refurbished 10 years ago. It was clearly lovingly maintained over the years. We got 10mpg bringing her home (through the mountains, yet) and plan to add the gear vendor, tighten the steering, etc... Yes, there are things we will enjoy doing. Thanks to Chaplain Kent's great instructions, we will be doing the windows first thing this spring. I want to update the uphostery and would love to attack the carpet. She has some minor hail dings (I'll bet that one brought someone pain!) and clearcoat that has gone south. We will look to have that work done...(any good midwest body people to recommend?) She came in at a price we could afford and still have funds to bring her to her full potential. I know her PO was sad to let her go (retiring from RVing) but he couldn't have possibly found two people who will care so much for her. I don't think my husband's feet have touched the ground since we first saw her.

We have already taken her to MN for a week where our kids joined us. It was remarkable weather and a joyful time. We plan to winterize her and store her...it is so hard to do that!

Once again, thanks to this forum. I have belonged to several and have never encountered one so well behaved. Our world seems to become more rude and hateful all the time. It is encouraging to see folks working together so well. Hmmmmm, Wally was really onto something for sure!

PS: I just spent a long time trying to upload a photo but I had a lot of trouble resizing it. Looks like I will need further practice. I will post one when I get the hang of it.

[Mel]

Congratulations! Now you'll have to change your signature line, since you're no longer searching!

[mr. bill]

congratulation on having found your AS. I'm still looking for mine but as you have found I think the one I want is a 31'.
My case of aluminitis is still itching but I am sure that I will find a cure as you did.

Bill

[TIMEMACHINE]

Auretrvr,

We will be waiting for the pictures of your new pride and joy.

John

[moosetags]

Congratulations on you new Aitstream. We need pictures.

[Jimarq]

Mary and Dick:

Congratulations. We know how long and hard you looked for the perfect Airstream and we're so proud for you that you found her. And I love the name! We will have to get Ernestine and Seymour together sometime. We're looking forward to seeing pictures.

[CaddyGrn]

Congrats! It is a fine day! Please post pictures as soon as you can ~ we love 'em!

Mrs. NorCal Bambi (traveling in S Tardis)

[GlenCoombe]

Great news, congrats! If you have photo shop you can use it to resize photos. Also you can sign up for free space on photobucket.com and post links to your photos of any size.
Details, details....tell us about Ernestine. How many miles...mods... details!!

[Auretrvr]

My husband at last got a file size that worked. Here is our girl. We are sad that winter is looming large upon the horizon. On the other hand, I will be making the drapes, having the sofa chairs recovered, etc. Until storage, she is snuggled in our driveway/backyard, so we had our wine and cheese in her Friday. She loved the company!

This forum is a treasure. We simply could have her without all of the generous tips and instructions from you!

Regards all!

[CanoeStream]

That's beautiful! I missed the first posts of your find. Glad you had success in the end. Hawaiian shirts and flamingos won't keep winter away -- glad you have projects, dreams, and a quick look out the window to keep you warm.

[Auretrvr]

We took her to Whitewater State Park the last fabulous weeknd of the season. My son is a hardcore Boundary Waters/ backpacker kind of guy, but I think he "got it". He is already planning a trip for the guys where I can have Ernestine parked to welcome them. I am not sure her little shower would be sufficient for their return!