RV work - getting closer all the time!

Today we got all new tires (6 of them) and our new Koni shocks installed, and dropped off the RV at a Ford dealership recommended by other RVers for service on the engine - just regular service like lube/oil/filters, plus checking transmission, brakes, and battery charging system. We got a new battery and now it is dead already. We think the engine may not be charging the battery properly. For the last couple of weeks we had it in a shop (J&L RV Repair) getting some interior work done. When the current work is done, our only major expense left will be getting the solar panel set-up we want.

Regret: We paid over $600(!) to have the carpets, upholstery, trim and ceiling steam cleaned, and can't really tell much difference. If I had it to do over again, I'd just replace the carpet!!! Or at least just do it ourselves. The carpet does not have that "new carpet feel" I had hoped for - I wonder if just shampooing it would be better? I may actually try that, hoping that the steam cleaning got out deep dirt. I think new carpeting throughout really would not have cost that much more and would have made a real difference. Sigh.

The only other major expense we are considering is a Banks PowerPack exhaust system. They are very expensive, but improve gas mileage (by 7%) AND power, so may be worth it.

Of course, we still have the TOAD to buy, and the braking system for the toad, and the kayaks, perhaps, and maybe a bike for me... and I still want to reupholster the furniture (but can do inexpensive slipcovers), and then there is also polishing and waxing the exterior...

We decided we definitely need to start taking it out and using it soon! It needs to earn its keep, so to speak, and tip the balance of expense and enjoyment back toward enjoyment. A weekend in the desert soon!