Bash prep for a Bash rep

For many the journey begins by getting in the vehicle and hitting the road. For me and the Co Hosts of the Birthday Bash (a gathering of Airstreams to celebrate the company founder for those that do not know) the journey began well over a year ago. When we were told it could not be done, we decided we would not only make it happen, but we would make it an event of a life time. I hope to offer you all a little insight from someone who was a part of it.

To plan an event this size, the four of us have worked hard trying to make sure everything went off without a hitch. The details required to pull it off would astound many. Daily, the four of us have talked about the minutia of making sure everyone coming had all their needs taken care of. We talked about it, but sooner or later, we had to physically put it in place. I left last sunday for the event site to get things ready for all the guest to arrive.

Rob had gotten a jump on cutting all the grass. Even with his head start, I spent my first day at Baker's Acres driving the John Deere around. In some cases, I was literally going around, and around, and around...

It is kind of hard to not enjoy the mowing if this is your view. I guess like anything, if this is what you do day after day, it is easy to forget the beauty of it.

There was a little bit of prep for feeding people. Got bacon? I sure did, that is 160 pounds of slab bacon. As I am sure many will testify, this is some of the finest bacon around. My butcher was glad to fill such a large order.

The rental place in town was also very glad to fill a large order for tables and chairs.

Mother Nature was also ready for us to arrive. Just to the right of center is Terra del Fuego. You will have to squint, but you can easily see it in this photo.

The weather was made ready also. For the most part we had perfect weather. A few rain showers, but nothing to dampen any spirits.

The flags were all laid out for the wagon wheel. One of the most striking things in photos from Mr Byam's early trailering adventures was how they parked in a wagon wheel formation. We wanted to pay homage by also parking everyone that way. Using very careful measuring we laid out 5 circles 75 feet apart. We gave 24 feet between rigs so people had room to spread their wings. This is more room than most commercial campgrounds give you these days.

Mr Baker Senior was kind enough to loan us one of his tractors to use for hauling chairs, tables, trash, etc. I sure enjoyed driving around this 1942 H8. For a tractor 69 years old she was a beast. Mr. Baker also brought his late 40's John Deere over to take the kids (and adults wishing they still were kids) on hay rides.

We also had to put out a few signs. Everyone uses (except me, proud to say) a GPS these days. Often these GPS systems take a convoluted round about way. A good old fashion sign is always reassuring to see when you are unfamiliar with the surroundings.

All we needed now, was for the guest to arrive, and haul water, put out Porta Pots, set up easy ups and other countless things. Where are those guests? Sure wish they would get here...