Our Vacation -- Part 2 Jayco Tour

Being that we were near the RV Capital of the World we thought it would be fun to take a tour of an RV factory. There were quite a few to choose from but we chose a larger family-owned company -- Jayco in Middlebury IN. We had our very own field trip and it was a very well done tour that we all enjoyed. We were in a group with all retired couples looking to buy their next rig so it wasn't geared for children but it still kept their attention since we moved quite quickly to see everything.



We began by looking through the most recent models of motor homes and trailers dreaming of the one that would fit our family perfectly. (We'd love 4 bunks in the back and a bump out up front for more space). We then watched a video on the origins of the company which isn't necessarily fun for kids but John and I found it interesting. Our tour began with everyone getting their own transmitter radio and ear piece to hear the tour guide and picking up saftey glasses. The kids were thrilled to each get a pair in their size and favorite color. I am sure that was the highlight! We hopped on a trolley and started off in the building where everything is sewn. We saw the bedding and pillows being covered, sofa cushions being assembled, etc.  With all of the brown fabrics I saw it was obvious that it is the "in" color compared to all the blue in our motor home.



Our next stop was the plant where they assemble the large 5th Wheels. We started at the beginning of the line and worked our way to the end and it was fascinating!  All of the woodworking of cabinets and trim is done here and on the picture to the right you can see it would slide from there down a level to be installed.  It moves from station to station and takes 4 or 5 days to complete one trailer. It is quite interesting to see it without any sides. If you are ever in the area I highly recommend the Jayco tour!

[caption id="attachment_782452" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="A slide out ready to be installed"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_782453" align="aligncenter" width="240" caption="All lined up"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_782454" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Furniture goes in last. You can see the chairs waiting on the left side."][/caption]

To end the day we ate at a large Amish restaurant called Essenhaus. While the atmosphere was nice, unfortunately the food wasn't worth the price. We had family style and they brought all we could eat. The chicken and mashed potatoes were good but canned green beans are not anyone's favorite here. The noodles were mushy as was the dressing. The kids really enjoyed the Amish peanut butter** and Apple butter on bread though. George was the only one who really enjoyed the meal and ate to his hearts content. Note to selves -- just because it is a very advertised restaurant doesn't mean the food is great. We picked the right day to go as there was a car show on the grounds and of course that was right up John's alley! There are also cute little shops to browse through.

** The secret to Amish peanut butter I found is that they add marshmallow creme to it. In fact I found they also add it so jams and jellies to make a dip. Not exactly good for you, but quite tasty. At the bulk foods store I saw gallons of marshmallow creme but alas, I did bypass that, tempting as it was. :)

[caption id="attachment_782461" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Seppy and his "pod-nuh" (partner) :)"][/caption]