Paws
- The Chi’s hate it when we are stuck in “waiting-to-go” mode, so next on my list is finding new ways to entertain them when John the Rockstar husband Laverty is doing RV things outside
- Every trip they seem to settle in a bit more and this time they found new places to relax and enjoy the drive.
- Every Harvest Host has different requirements for the dogs, this one was clear that our dogs had to be on-leash to respect the farm animals.
Breathe
- This host was lovely and full of information about places to go as we travel south.
- A walk through the raspberries was just what John the Rockstar husband Laverty needed to settle after the car troubles and gale-force winds all the way here
- The wine was what tracy needed š
- We are getting faster at getting on the road but took longer than expected this time.
Pay it forward
- Barr Estates Wine is a truly magical place right outside of Edmonton. Their wine is delicious (try “the Other Red”) and they were very forgiving hosts (we stayed at least an hour longer than intended).
- This was another Harvest Hosts, pet-friendly stop.
The (Not so) Great Escape to Barr Estates Winery
Hey. there, fellow road warriors! Itās Tracy here, your favorite RV enthusiast (or so I tell myself), back with another hilarious chapter from our life on wheels. This time, we packed up our trusty (and slightly temperamental) RV and hit the road to Barr Estates Winery, a Harvest Hosts gem just outside Edmonton. Spoiler alert: we survived, and the chihuahuas are still with usāat least for now.
The Great Mechanical Mishap
We planned to leave early, but of course, life had other ideas. Our tow vehicle decided it was the perfect time for a little mechanical drama. Picture John, my husband, in a race against time, wrestling with wrenches while Iām inside trying to calm down three jittery chihuahuas who are convinced weāre about to abandon them for a wild night out at the dog park. Finally, after what felt like a pit crew-style operation, we hit the roadāalbeit a tad later than planned.
Navigating the Tight Turn
Fast forward to our approach to Barr Estates. Let me tell you, the turnoff to the winery came out of nowhere. One moment, we were cruising along, and the next, Iām yelling, āTURN! TURN NOW!ā while clutching the āoh crapā handle. John, ever the pro, executed a borderline miraculous maneuver, swinging our rig into a surprisingly snug entrance. I could practically hear the RV whispering, āThanks for not getting us stuck, Tracy!ā
Meet the Host with the Most
As we disembarked (after a little coaxing from August, Finnegan, and Casey), Amy, our host, greeted us with a smile that screamed, āWelcome to the best night of your lives!ā She quickly filled us in on the rules of the farm, which included the critical information that her dog had a taste for small furry creatures. Perfect! Nothing like a little canine predator to spice up our evening.
Farm Life: The Real Deal
Amy showed us around the farm, and I was instantly charmed by the free-range chickens strutting around like they owned the place. I half expected them to ask us for autographs. Then, there were the sheep, blissfully unaware of how many adorable sweaters theyād eventually inspire. And letās not forget the amazing raspberry and rhubarb crops!
Wine, Wine, and More Wine
After our little farm tour, Amy poured me a tasting of her popular wines. Folks, if you ever find yourself near Barr Estates, do yourself a favor: get the wine. It was like drinking liquid sunshineāif sunshine came in a bottle and made you feel like dancing. I sipped and savored, imagining all the fabulous dinner parties Iād never host but now had the perfect wine for.
The End of a Long Day
As the sun set behind the vineyards, painting everything in glorious hues of purple and gold, I couldnāt help but feel grateful. Our slightly chaotic journey had led us to a charming winery, fabulous company, and, of course, the worldās most spoiled chihuahuas.
So hereās to RV adventures, tight turns, and wine that makes you forget all about your vehicleās mechanical issues. Until next time, keep your wheels rolling and your glasses full!
Cheers,
Tracy, John, August, Finnegan and Casey
– back home –
