Notes From The Road

We've posted several of these quips on Facebook over the past two months, most of them sprinkled with humor. One of our family members once said, "... if you can't laugh at yourself at least once in a while, then you're in deep... ya know." Still rather prolific after all these years. That's one thing we have embraced while traveling on this 2500+ mile (so far) jaunt to way south of the Mason-Dixon line - is to laugh, laugh often, as well as to laugh at ourselves. If we didn't, we would've never made it.

Now we're not saying that it takes laughter alone to get from point A to B. It also takes more than just money. Here's a few notes from the road we would like to pass along, especially to other newbies like us who are learning a few things the hard way:

1). Not all campers are created equal. There's more to this than meets the eye - or checkbook. If and when you decide to take the RV plunge, even if it's only for 2-3 months a year, you don't necessarily need to spend a great deal of money on an RV. This will tick off any RV dealer and/or sales-person, but the old adage of "money doesn't buy everything" is dead on in this case. As long as the rig meets your needs & utility, and you really like it (living in it and all), then it doesn't matter if you spend $5,000 or 105,000 dollars. We know of some fellow campers who own a rather expensive 5th wheel that's only three months old and they're already experiencing difficulties with the campers hydraulic system as well as interior trim peeling off. Our Nomad, including purchase price and repairs, and not counting fuel, has cost us approximately $3500 total bill. Yes, he squeaks and rattles a little and is at the lowest percentile in regards to technology, but overall, our little motorhome has been a very dependable and reliable vehicle - never mind it's 36 years old.

Bottom line - more does not always equal more.

2). Not all campgrounds are created equal. Even if it's a "chain" like Jellystone or KOA's, you will run

across the gamut. Why? Simple - they are owned, managed, and staffed by humans. In our experience, it's the people who not only work the campground, but also the people staying there that can make or break your stay, regardless of the length. Unlike real estate, it's not just about location. There's also safety in numbers - never overlook spending the night (or even catching a few zzz's) at a decent truck stop or at a Wal-Mart. They are well lit, have security cameras, and there are always other campers and/or truckers parked there with the same idea you have. Again, in many cases, location is not the primary objective.

3). Hit the pause button. Unless you absolutely have to be at a certain destination by a certain date, take the time to stop somewhere (preferably a campground in this case) for at least a few days to a week, if not longer, if you can manage it. We've talked to numerous campers and they all agree - you just can't drive day after day, mile after mile. You need to stop and take a breather for at least a few days. Otherwise, you start to get a little squirrely. Before long, you're unsure what day it is, what town you're in, and just how many days in a row you've worn those blue jeans, socks and shirt.

4). Socialize. We know everyone is not a social butterfly, but it is important to talk to other people - and we don't mean via Facebook, texting, or just yapping on the cell phone. It's good to have face-to-face human interaction. One thing we noticed, regardless of where we stayed, is that fellow campers make an effort to meet and talk to each other. Not only is it good for your psyche, you never know who you are going to meet. A fellow camper may pass along a valuable piece of advise regarding a repair you need to make, information about a particular campground you're thinking about staying at, or they just might be from your neck of the woods. In one campground in North Carolina, we met six (6) other campers from the state of Maine alone.
One final footnote - big rig truckers can be some of your best allies!!

5). Ask questions. This has been a life saver for us. We make an effort not only to talk to people, but also questions. This ranges from asking the name of the cashier at whatever restaurant, market, or Wal-Mart you're currently shopping at inquiring about how they're doing today, to asking directions for the most direct traveling route, to placed NOT to stay. Starting a friendly, casual conversation can lead to all kinds of useful information, and better yet - very helpful people who remember you because you took the time to make them feel like a human being.

6). You just gotta roll with it. This part comes with a myriad of atypical sayings, but they are all true. Take one day at a time, at the end of the day - let it go. Tomorrow is a new day - begin it well. The unexpected will happen... so expect it. You will see things that will amaze you, disgust you, make you laugh out loud, come close to crying, and other times just leave you shaking your head.
Be in the moment, regardless when that is. Make that concept an all-awaking practice. Life is a game - and it demands attention.
With the aspects that are truly exciting, fascinating, and memorable - are we watching for it?
When there is hilarity and humor - do we see it?
When there are touching or life changing moments - are we open to them?

Until next time,
The Happy Campers,
Jill & Dave