Dare To Be Different

A few blogs back, we posted a few sentences that went something like:
 - "We miss the absurd." 
 - "Seek the unpredictable."
Some readers asked what we meant in regards to these statements. One person went on to say that "...even though we are Nomadic Americans, and on a loosely planned journey, we still have goals. Why would you want the absurd and unpredictable to get in the way?"

The answer to that question can be simple in concept, but not always easy to embrace. Nomadic and/or RV life is especially appealing to those who value the freedom of not being weighed down by accumulated stuff, because it is the ultimate exercise in paring down to only the important, but fun-filled essentials. Anyone who has ever tried to pack up a home and take it down the road soon learns the meaning of the old saying that "less is more." Ben Franklin, who created timeless maxims like "a penny saved is a penny earned", also explained that the person "who owns much is soon owned" by his or her possessions. Now - are we claiming to be the material possessions Grinch? Nope - not in the least and not trying to be.

We will be the first to admit that Nomadic and/or RV life is not for everyone - nor is it intended to be like many things in life. We've talked to hundreds of people over the past three months and while quite a number of them are unable to do what we are currently doing at this juncture in their lives, they want to embark on a nomadic lifestyle in sometimes the worst way. These people come from all walks of life and through a broad financial demographic spectrum. In our humble opinion, and to some, this is probably kindergarten time, the American Dream has changed dramatically. The bottom line here is it is okay to Dare to be Different.

Case in point with the Nomad. In an age of motorized recreational vehicles, motor-homes, and 5th wheels that can cost way over $100,000 dollars, we're going in the opposite direction. Nomad is already 36 years old and we haven't even gotten out of the gate yet. In some peoples eyes, our RV is absolutely unspectacular by today's standards, but it can serve as a reminder as well as an inspiration that camping and traveling can be fun and adventurous - as well as affordable. It's like my uncle used to say; "...keep the costs and efforts down, so you're not married to it."

It brings to mind the principle of things are not always what they seem. The Nomad could be viewed as something out of the dinosaur age, but is actually very comfortable to drive, as well as quite easy to steer, brake, and park. The same could be said for us and other people. There are always going to be the collective group of folks who think, not only are we off our rocker, but the rocker has fallen off the porch and is halfway down the driveway... in pieces. However, more often than not, friends, family, acquaintances, and the public in general, are supporting us, rooting for us, and wishing us all the best. That is an incredible source of strength and hope. We've also already met some very interesting people so far on this journey. For example, we met a young woman this morning whom, at first glance and impression, would seem aloof with a certain level of disconnect sometimes associated with the teenage generation. However, after speaking with her for about 15 minutes, we found her to be witty, intelligent, personable, as well as an honors student in her class.

The mechanical bugs have all been worked out with the Nomad. The next phase is to start loading it up with the essentials, which will mean we are going to get extremely creative when it comes to maximizing the interior space. After that, we just need to add propane, water, then stir well, and we should be good to go. The warmer weather is beckoning us and we are heeding the call.

Until next time,
The Happy Campers,
Jill & Dave