So here goes: My DH was an RVer before we met. He loved his time on the road. Then he got me. And I was a pure sticks and bricks girl. No way, honey am I going to ride shotgun with you in an RV, is what I told him. I'll fly out to meet you when you get somewhere special, preferably right next door to a fine hotel with 600 thread count linens and room service. I was a Realtor and a serial remodeler. He joined me in my projects which for many years were very successful. We were able to put aside a good deal of retirement savings and make a huge down payment on our current home. That was five years ago, seconds before the market came crashing down and we have lost so much value in the house it isn't even funny. For the last two years I had taken a more traditional job working regularly 11-12 hour days, which would have been no big deal a decade or so ago, but I'm slowing down a little. My DH has slowed down a lot and neither one of us wants to do all the yard work and home maintenance that is required to keep up our place. SO....we were noodling around one day about our future and the RV idea came up. I'm proud/embarrassed to say that I think is was I who started it, but it doesn't matter because we decided to just go, just for fun, you know, and have a look at some RV's. Just a Sunday outing.
The short version of the story is I fell in love instantly and irretrievably with a brilliant beast of a bus which had me practically losing sleep over how much I WANTED it. Meanwhile, my DH is a bit bemused because I've apparently changed my originally stated position that I would not, ever, no never ever, hit the road in an RV. That was about 6 months ago and we didn't buy the thing, that would have been stupid, right? Well since then I resigned from my job and am working only part time and I'm so OVER this house, I cannot tell you.
My parents live in Austin, TX, which if you don't know, has about the healthiest real estate market in the country. And so I visit there frequently and due to the fact that I'm a real estate addict I always know what's on the market there. Since I cut back on my job I wanted to take a some of my savings and invest it in a little condo I could rent out for a nice profit. So DH and I go to Austin and buy my little investment property. And have Thanksgiving with the folks. And renew old acquaintances from our 30 years we lived in Austin. Oh and also, we find almost my identical beloved beautiful beast bus a few miles away. (No, I cannot stay off of the internet since my first beloved got away) Meanwhile, exactly the same day that we decide to go have a look at BBBbus we get an email from acquaintances who we knew wanted to buy our house, but needed to sell their house first. They have an offer on their house that looks like it's going to work. We step into the bus and it turns out I'm just as much in love as the first time. Our extremely gifted salesman leaves us alone in the bus to talk. And what did we do? Of course, I don't have to tell you. We decide to buy the thing. And we do.
Right after that I completely freaked out. All the questions! What are we going to do with all of our stuff? I really really believe I need a home base, I said. I've ALWAYS been a nester. DH reluctantly agrees that we can move just a small one bedroom apartment's worth of our stuff in the little condo in Austin, where I have friends and work possibilities and family who will be needing me around in due time. So I am somewhat soothed, but still quite nervous. Swells of anxiety kept rearing up. HAVE WE GONE NUTS! I'm thinking. However I steal a glace at DH (who has been admittedly a little depressed for a few years since our home value went kablooey) and he is lit up like a torch. No worries at all. Happiest I've ever seen him. Except our wedding day.
Coming here to this site has been very helpful to me - reading all of your stories. And I have to do it a couple of times day or else I'm going to become an alcoholic trying to calm my nerves! In a week DH flies down to Texas to get the rig and drive it back to Washington State where it will sit in our driveway (if we can even get the thing around the bend onto our property - Now do you see why I'm so nervous?) until the house sells and we have figured out where we're going. And meanwhile the people who want to buy our house have not been able to make their deal work out. Fortunately, I am a great designer and our house will sell, I'm certain. I'm so nervous and so excited I can't figure out which feeling wins and it changes by the second. But I just know once we get through all the details we're going to have fun! Right? Excuse me, while I go refill my wine glass.
Terry and Jo said
04:34 AM Dec 3, 2012
Lisa,
First of all, don't be nervous about becoming a new participant on the RV Dreams forums. If you've been reading as much as you say, you already know that the folks here are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about just about every kind of RV and lifestyle of RV'ing, whether it be part time or full time.
We started this process early during the beginning of the economic downturn. Our home was priced within a niche that was not selling. Homes cheaper than ours and home more expensive than ours were selling, but we were unable to sell for about 3 years.
In all, it was not a bad thing as it gave us time to research our RV, sell most of our "stuff," and really look at little details that we found that we needed to know.
It is not unusual for folks to need a "home base," but in our case, it will be wherever our RV is located, even if that is later on a small lot in the small town where I grew up. If it ever gets to where we do really have to quit living in our RV, then we will simply find an inexpensive place to rent.
I guess the main thing is to try to be open to new ideas and circumstances. With that in mind, enjoy your journey into this lifestyle.
Terry
Wayne and Deanna said
05:59 AM Dec 3, 2012
Hi, Lisa! Well, you can read my update from the other day, and see that we are ahead of you--living on our driveway--house not up for sale yet, but getting used to our 5er and how to function in it. We will be static full timers, planning to stay in the same area of CA, my husband is still working. Every day gets easier emotionally, and our 5th wheel is now our home, and the Big House is just rooms full of stuff still looking for a home. We are going to have the kids who live close over for Christmas, and after that, begin taking the things they can use to their homes, doing our yard sales, and list the house when the time is right. Just tonight we began giving Christmas ornaments to one of our daughters so that she could decorate her first tree for her family. Old chapters are closing, new chapter beginning. We are excited, and cannot wait to be free of the house and the stuff we have accumulated. It is a process for sure. Best of luck to you both.
Deanna
Trabuco said
06:41 AM Dec 3, 2012
Wow Lisa that's quite the intro.....welcome to the forum. It's normal to be nervous we all were at one point. Hang in there it gets better, alot better!
Bobbi said
03:25 PM Dec 3, 2012
Hi! Well, I totally understand. We haven't even purchased an RV yet, and I get cold feet about it almost every day. You've jumped into it, and now the realizations of the big adjustments are coming to you. Since you haven't sold your house yet, you'll have some time adjust and make transitions. I really don't have any advice on how to transition totally since we don't even have an RV and wont' be venturing into full or part-timing for quite a while, but I just wanted to say I think that any conscientious person finds it nerve-wracking. Take your time. Go on weekend outings. Start paring down. Stay in the RV when you don't have to. And good luck!
WestWardHo said
05:20 PM Dec 3, 2012
Hi Lisa and welcome!
Girl, can I relate! We've gone back & forth at least 5 times. Should we keep the house & RV part time as its the perfect home & location for an exit strategy should we need to do that? I'm a nester like you and Jesse had a travel trailer when we met & was planning on living in it & traveling. He introduced me to the life and I'm hooked. However, we bought this house together almost 3 years ago at the bottom of the market - I'm a nester, remember. But every time we travel I want to stay longer & explore more & get to know new people better. BTW, we're on our 3rd rig now and planning for a 4th. - At least Howard & Linda got theirs right the first time! Anyone want to buy a great furnished single story newer low maintenance solar powered house with incredible views and a cooks kitchen?
Jesse served 20 years in the Navy on nuclear subs so he's very comfortable in small spaces. We've both lived (separately) all over the country so change doesn't scare us. We are now planning/hoping to sell to close no sooner than June 1, 2013 and just go. We've been slowly getting rid of stuff and most is easy but some lifelong beauties are going to be very painful. We may put some things in storage for a year or so to see if we can let them go. Love your one bedroom condo with certain things and we've also considered a lot with a casita for the same reason. 6 months is starting to feel like pressure to get it all done.
If there is any way you can attend the spring rally, I can promise you that you won't regret it. You'll learn so much, meet wonderful people, and feel better about your decisions. From what I've read and heard here & there, our feelings are quite normal!
Again welcome to the "club".
Sherry
Lucky Mike said
06:13 PM Dec 3, 2012
Welcome Aboard Lisa........We all started in the same spot and it gets better from there.....We are all here for you , just ask and we can help................................................welcome to the family
bigboomer said
07:09 PM Dec 3, 2012
Congrats Lisa and your DH for diving right into the pool and starting this great adventure! We have been RVing for about a dozen years and FTing about 4 months after we sold off lock, stock and barrel of everything we own (it killed my DW to see the Ethan Allen Georgian Court living, dining and bedroom sold off for next to nothing!)
We are all in this together and you will see we are a very quickly growing segment of the population (heck, who can afford to buy and live in a house anymore?)
The road is waiting for those with only a windshield in front of them and no rear view mirrors!
Good luck and safe travels for the DH as he drives back!
Les
nervousnewbie said
07:36 PM Dec 3, 2012
Thanks everyone for your warm welcome. I truly believe that life's best adventures involve struggle and pain along with the joy that comes. I'm just starting the struggle and pain part. The worst thing that can happen is to get so stuck you feel trapped and give up the good fight. Mark and I were pretty close to that for a while. So the possibilities stretching before us are quite exciting. I'm just so nervous I can't relax or concentrate. And what's weird is I've always been pretty much a go-with-the-flow kinda girl. It helps so much to hear from you. I'm grateful that you've all been open hearted in sharing your stories...
Thanks Sherry for getting the "nester" thing. I think it's my biggest hurdle. I'm having fun planning what to take to our little condo. We've already discussed attending the spring rally. I think if we can work it out we would learn so much.
Thanks again y'all. I guess I'll see you around the forum!
Wayne and Deanna said
09:17 PM Dec 3, 2012
Lisa, keep reading all our stories. I have been known to be on here at all hours, reading how others have handled different aspects of this transition. My mind can rest at night now, and my stomach has stopped churning, and I am looking forward to the new day. Still, I do what I can in a day, and then I don't push myself past what I can handle. There is a lot of stuff to sort. Why do we keep all that stuff???? I can't wait to have just one home, our new one. Sounds like you are pretty normal to me, and you will be fine!
nervousnewbie said
09:59 PM Dec 3, 2012
Wayne and Deanna wrote:
Lisa, keep reading all our stories. I have been known to be on here at all hours, reading how others have handled different aspects of this transition. My mind can rest at night now, and my stomach has stopped churning, and I am looking forward to the new day. Still, I do what I can in a day, and then I don't push myself past what I can handle. There is a lot of stuff to sort. Why do we keep all that stuff???? I can't wait to have just one home, our new one. Sounds like you are pretty normal to me, and you will be fine!
Thanks for the reassurance. It's good to know that I'm not the only one with my stomach churning...and it is hopeful that I can rest at night, at some point. My mind races with all the issues, from getting rid of stuff to mail forwarding to living on the road....there are just so many issues that are mysterious to me. If I could set my mind on just one thing at a time I think I would be a little better. I just keep second guessing this giant purchase we made before we really had all our ducks in a row. But it was the rig we wanted and I think we will ultimately be very happy we did it.
As for the STUFF issue, I'm just about ready to pitch it all out! About 15 years ago my house burned to the ground and I lost everything. After the initial grief and shock I realized I wouldn't have to clean out my garage or my junk drawer! It was quite freeing to have nothing. But then in 15 years, of course we acquired stuff again. So, so much stuff.
PIEERE said
03:17 AM Dec 5, 2012
Just wait until you live in the RV for awhile. I take one thing out and add three in. It's a never-ending story and I keep saying one day "Alice" I'll drive up to a dumpster. LOL!!!! It's seem as though everything keeps moving faster and soon you will be doing instead of learning and the tricks and shortcuts start to take over. I go more nervous when purchasing the S&B, and am so pleased with the less upkeep and I can change the landscape by just getting the BIG Wheels turning in a few hours notice. Have Fun, Enjoy the Ride and remember it's not so much the destination, it the JOURNEY getting there! Pieere
nervousnewbie said
03:41 AM Dec 5, 2012
Thanks Pieere: It'a amazing how much my nerves have calmed just since I finally quit worrying about it and went and attacked my closet. I've made my first small dent! Yay! DH heads south next week to pick up the rig. Then more nerves: we aren't sure we can get it into our driveway, but long ago there was an accessory gravel drive to our property with a less acute bend and we may have to uncover that! Till then we have a neighbor who will let us park it in front of his barn for a while...Things are falling into place. I'm just hoping the nerves don't come back like they were! But when DH comes driving in I think I may have to hide...we have a looooong private road in the woods to our driveway and it is full of overhanging trees that need to be cut back. I think our yard guys are going to "walk" the bus in and cut as they go.
Wayne and Deanna said
05:38 AM Dec 5, 2012
Lisa, you are going to have fun! An adventure of putting everything in just the right place...and then moving it. I am enjoying your posts. Keep them coming! Those yard guys and your DH will get that bus in, just you wait and see. :) Pictures when you can! :)
Jo And Craig said
05:47 AM Dec 5, 2012
Lisa, it goes without saying you are not alone! It's amazing how things change... how WE change. For instance, once upon a time my older sister (by 2.5 years) was transferred to Atlanta (for a year). When she left, it felt as though someone had cut off my arms! We are a close-knit family and everyone pretty much remains in the same area. (By the way, I'm a native Houstonian!!) Well, I will never forget her leaving as long as I live. As a grown adult I cried my eyes out and even went to visit her 3 times in less than a year. How was I going to survive without my SISTER? Now? Now I can't wait to give up all my "stuff" and move on... with my family's blessings. A total contrast to my natural "make-up". I suppose what helped the most is what my dear mother said, "Go! For cryin' out loud. Don't let ME stop you!" Well, that's all I needed to hear. Even though I am a strong-willed, independent women (it's inherited), I've never left the "nest" so to speak. Yet, when the time comes I don't ever want to regret not taking the opportunity. It's my life and I am so ready to live it! Do something "daring" and experience things I would never experience otherwise. There will be nothing holding me back. I am soooo ready to give up the corporate rate race I could just SPIT! So, with 35 weeks and 6 days until retirement, I believe I have done just about every little bit of research I possibly can. My lists are made, my spreadsheets are in order, my contacts are up-to-date, we pretty much know the 5er we want to order (floor plan and the must-haves), the tow vehicle, you name it. I'm pretty much ready to go, just counting down. I think the only thing left is figuring out how to boondock with a residential refrigerator. (That's my next "project"!) Anyway, my point is this... don't let life pass you by. As many on this board have said, don't leave this world wishing you had done this. It's YOUR life... go ahead and live it!
Hope to see you out on the road one day... soon!
P.S. And I really want to give everyone on this board a HUGE THANK YOU for your kindness and generosity. I wouldn't be nearly this excited or prepared if it weren't for you all. Thanks!
Wayne and Deanna said
06:05 AM Dec 5, 2012
Good for you, Mary Sunshine! Looking forward to you sharing your adventures with us.
Lucky Mike said
03:02 PM Dec 5, 2012
Ditto Mary...........
I Was pulled from the road last fall, a simple little pain became a Snowball.....what should have been a simple operation for a pinched nerve , became a quad Bypass.....then I became National news When the Serial infector Stuck in the NH hospital I was handed a Virus no one wanted. and almost a year later Fighting it with all the Spirit I have , soon the time will come to return to my journey!!!
Living through others on this forum is what keeps the dream going....each ones personality grows on you, they become part of your family.....there journey takes your mind to those happy places.
there knowledge prepares you for those times when its your turn to fix it or take the trip.
They have carried me thru it for the last year each time I thought it was time to give it up, I would jump in here and my spirit grew!!!!!
Each person on here is a Hand up in there own way,, I know that everyone of them will always keep each members Dreams and best interest at heart!!!!!
Life is a gift.....use every moment of it....and always pay it forward!!!
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Wednesday 5th of December 2012 03:05:16 PM
Gone in a flash said
04:56 PM Dec 5, 2012
Welcome and I was really nervous on every thing about going F/T. After all the garage sales, selling the house, giving stuff away(this aint helping is it) But know where full timing since 11/20/2012 and loving it. We haven't go to go any where since dad is sick.
nervousnewbie said
06:16 PM Dec 5, 2012
Wow! I am amazed at all the support! Yes, Mary Sunshine, if there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that things CHANGE! And they pretty much never end up the way you planned them. Deanna, if I can hold the camera and shoot, there'll be pics. I just have to get my hands to stop shaking!!
Jo And Craig said
07:52 PM Dec 5, 2012
Lisa, bless your heart, you just crack me up! (Lucky Mike has the same effect on me!) Take a deep breath... exhale slowly, put a smile on your face and enjoy the ride. Do you have a CLUE how many people would give anything to be in your shoes... like me? Not that what "the Joneses" wants matters, but you're a lucky girl nevertheless. Relax and enjoy. Maybe one day we can picnic together in our BIG backyard!
Cheers!
P.S. I just think your excitement has actually surpassed mine! How is that possible?
bigboomer said
08:10 PM Dec 5, 2012
Mary Sunshine,
You have taken the biggest step by pulling the trigger and pushing ahead with your dreams. As my DW said that if we wait until we think we are ready, time may have passed us by and we will regret that we did not....The one thing we realized is you must continue to believe in the dream and not give in to whims of other folks (like my sister-in-law who thinks we are nuts!). Usually we find most people who think that way don't really have a plan for themselves and that they are fearful that your plan will succeed and they will be left behind!
Good luck with the planned retirement and the future purchase of that "dream maker"!
Les
Lucky Mike said
08:23 PM Dec 5, 2012
The nice part is......Once you get out here you meet "the think alike type people" those that did and are experiencing all those feelings.
When I first came out here I was solo...left with no money and big Dream to try something new, Its been a hell of a ride and I wouldnt trade it off.
in fact they now have Assisted living for Seniors in RVs.........In a few years Im gonna hire 2 nurses to Ride around with me!!!!!!
nervousnewbie said
08:30 PM Dec 5, 2012
Lucky Mike wrote:
in fact they now have Assisted living for Seniors in RVs.........In a few years Im gonna hire 2 nurses to Ride around with me!!!!!!
Ha! Are you going to have them drive, too!
Gone in a Flash - Is your dad going to be okay? Sorry to hear he's ill.
Jo And Craig said
10:17 PM Dec 5, 2012
BigBoomer and Lisa, I'm not sure you were around when I posted about our situation, but my DH's 89 year old aunt is living with us. We are her caretakers and have been for the past 14 months. Long story, but my anticipated retirement date may just be in God's perfect timing. Who knows? Only time will tell. But, in the meantime I don't stop dreaming. My husband and I discussed whether or not I was out of line to think about this dream of ours, and dream it every day. (After all, it was HIS dream initially. All he had to do was plant the seed. AND IT GREW!) He is fine with my excitement and planning... that is very much my nature. So, plan I did, and still do. I never quit planning! He won't let himself get excited, however, until the time comes, and understands that this dream is what keeps me going under the circumstances, literally! If it wasn't for Howard and Linda graciously allowing me to "follow them around", I don't know what I do because, after all, I live vicariously through them.
THANK YOU HOWARD AND LINDA!!!
bigboomer said
10:38 PM Dec 5, 2012
Mary Sunshine,
Fully understand. Sue's mom lived with us for 15 years and the last 4 with Alzhiemers. Sue was her caretaker the last 4 years and left work to do so. We started RVing so that we could actually take vacations without leaving her home or worrying about her (when she was still able to travel). Long story short, upon her passing we decided to implement the plan a little earlier than orginally designed, mainly due to the fact that we did not need a huge home for just the two of us. In addition because of my long work hours and commute alot of the work was falling on my wife's shoulders. It was becoming all work and no fun. We are glad that we were able to make this lifestyle change because we wanted to and not because we were forced to do it for other reasons. We are Blessed and are thankful each day for everything we have because we see so many without.
As we tell folks we see, we just take one day at a time and make the most of each day.
Keep the Faith!
Les
Jo And Craig said
12:10 AM Dec 6, 2012
Les, what you and your DW have gone through for so many years is why I try not to complain... and I KNOW we are very blessed as it could be so much worse. My DH and I do not have any children... Aunt Ruth is our, well, our first. So, it's hard because for as long as we have been married we have been foot loose and fancy free. Now we are tied down, unable to go anywhere, pretty much, or do anything together. (Just ever so seldom.) We can't even go to church together, and haven't in over a year. Aunt Ruth's dementia is not too terribly bad, so right now it is frustrating for her, but my DH and I just have to chuckle sometimes at the things she says, does, and comes up with. I hope we can always chuckle. We are truly blessed, nevertheless.
Mike, hang in there! You're amazing and I can tell you are chompin' at the bit to get outta Dodge! Know how ya feel!
bigboomer said
01:53 PM Dec 6, 2012
Mary,
We could have written your words verbatim! For whatever reason we never had children and as my wife has said that maybe that was for a reason as GOD had a greater plan for us in taking care of her mom. Sue always said "kids come in all shapes, sizes and ages!". She really never became an issue until the last year or so but up until then we were able to take her with us. It is tough when you see what this disease does to another person. We were Blessed that we did not have to make that dreaded decision to have to place her in a home for whatever little time she had left and that she left this Earth in the arms of those who Loved her the most!
We can now look back at all the silly things she did and yes there are some real doosies!
So here goes: My DH was an RVer before we met. He loved his time on the road. Then he got me. And I was a pure sticks and bricks girl. No way, honey am I going to ride shotgun with you in an RV, is what I told him. I'll fly out to meet you when you get somewhere special, preferably right next door to a fine hotel with 600 thread count linens and room service. I was a Realtor and a serial remodeler. He joined me in my projects which for many years were very successful. We were able to put aside a good deal of retirement savings and make a huge down payment on our current home. That was five years ago, seconds before the market came crashing down and we have lost so much value in the house it isn't even funny. For the last two years I had taken a more traditional job working regularly 11-12 hour days, which would have been no big deal a decade or so ago, but I'm slowing down a little. My DH has slowed down a lot and neither one of us wants to do all the yard work and home maintenance that is required to keep up our place. SO....we were noodling around one day about our future and the RV idea came up. I'm proud/embarrassed to say that I think is was I who started it, but it doesn't matter because we decided to just go, just for fun, you know, and have a look at some RV's. Just a Sunday outing.
The short version of the story is I fell in love instantly and irretrievably with a brilliant beast of a bus which had me practically losing sleep over how much I WANTED it. Meanwhile, my DH is a bit bemused because I've apparently changed my originally stated position that I would not, ever, no never ever, hit the road in an RV. That was about 6 months ago and we didn't buy the thing, that would have been stupid, right? Well since then I resigned from my job and am working only part time and I'm so OVER this house, I cannot tell you.
My parents live in Austin, TX, which if you don't know, has about the healthiest real estate market in the country. And so I visit there frequently and due to the fact that I'm a real estate addict I always know what's on the market there. Since I cut back on my job I wanted to take a some of my savings and invest it in a little condo I could rent out for a nice profit. So DH and I go to Austin and buy my little investment property. And have Thanksgiving with the folks. And renew old acquaintances from our 30 years we lived in Austin. Oh and also, we find almost my identical beloved beautiful beast bus a few miles away. (No, I cannot stay off of the internet since my first beloved got away) Meanwhile, exactly the same day that we decide to go have a look at BBBbus we get an email from acquaintances who we knew wanted to buy our house, but needed to sell their house first. They have an offer on their house that looks like it's going to work. We step into the bus and it turns out I'm just as much in love as the first time. Our extremely gifted salesman leaves us alone in the bus to talk. And what did we do? Of course, I don't have to tell you. We decide to buy the thing. And we do.
Right after that I completely freaked out. All the questions! What are we going to do with all of our stuff? I really really believe I need a home base, I said. I've ALWAYS been a nester. DH reluctantly agrees that we can move just a small one bedroom apartment's worth of our stuff in the little condo in Austin, where I have friends and work possibilities and family who will be needing me around in due time. So I am somewhat soothed, but still quite nervous. Swells of anxiety kept rearing up. HAVE WE GONE NUTS! I'm thinking. However I steal a glace at DH (who has been admittedly a little depressed for a few years since our home value went kablooey) and he is lit up like a torch. No worries at all. Happiest I've ever seen him. Except our wedding day.
Coming here to this site has been very helpful to me - reading all of your stories. And I have to do it a couple of times day or else I'm going to become an alcoholic trying to calm my nerves! In a week DH flies down to Texas to get the rig and drive it back to Washington State where it will sit in our driveway (if we can even get the thing around the bend onto our property - Now do you see why I'm so nervous?) until the house sells and we have figured out where we're going. And meanwhile the people who want to buy our house have not been able to make their deal work out. Fortunately, I am a great designer and our house will sell, I'm certain. I'm so nervous and so excited I can't figure out which feeling wins and it changes by the second. But I just know once we get through all the details we're going to have fun! Right? Excuse me, while I go refill my wine glass.
Lisa,
First of all, don't be nervous about becoming a new participant on the RV Dreams forums. If you've been reading as much as you say, you already know that the folks here are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about just about every kind of RV and lifestyle of RV'ing, whether it be part time or full time.
We started this process early during the beginning of the economic downturn. Our home was priced within a niche that was not selling. Homes cheaper than ours and home more expensive than ours were selling, but we were unable to sell for about 3 years.
In all, it was not a bad thing as it gave us time to research our RV, sell most of our "stuff," and really look at little details that we found that we needed to know.
It is not unusual for folks to need a "home base," but in our case, it will be wherever our RV is located, even if that is later on a small lot in the small town where I grew up. If it ever gets to where we do really have to quit living in our RV, then we will simply find an inexpensive place to rent.
I guess the main thing is to try to be open to new ideas and circumstances. With that in mind, enjoy your journey into this lifestyle.
Terry
Well, you can read my update from the other day, and see that we are ahead of you--living on our driveway--house not up for sale yet, but getting used to our 5er and how to function in it. We will be static full timers, planning to stay in the same area of CA, my husband is still working. Every day gets easier emotionally, and our 5th wheel is now our home, and the Big House is just rooms full of stuff still looking for a home. We are going to have the kids who live close over for Christmas, and after that, begin taking the things they can use to their homes, doing our yard sales, and list the house when the time is right. Just tonight we began giving Christmas ornaments to one of our daughters so that she could decorate her first tree for her family. Old chapters are closing, new chapter beginning. We are excited, and cannot wait to be free of the house and the stuff we have accumulated. It is a process for sure. Best of luck to you both.
Deanna
Girl, can I relate! We've gone back & forth at least 5 times. Should we keep the house & RV part time as its the perfect home & location for an exit strategy should we need to do that? I'm a nester like you and Jesse had a travel trailer when we met & was planning on living in it & traveling. He introduced me to the life and I'm hooked. However, we bought this house together almost 3 years ago at the bottom of the market - I'm a nester, remember. But every time we travel I want to stay longer & explore more & get to know new people better. BTW, we're on our 3rd rig now and planning for a 4th. - At least Howard & Linda got theirs right the first time! Anyone want to buy a great furnished single story newer low maintenance solar powered house with incredible views and a cooks kitchen?
Jesse served 20 years in the Navy on nuclear subs so he's very comfortable in small spaces. We've both lived (separately) all over the country so change doesn't scare us. We are now planning/hoping to sell to close no sooner than June 1, 2013 and just go. We've been slowly getting rid of stuff and most is easy but some lifelong beauties are going to be very painful. We may put some things in storage for a year or so to see if we can let them go. Love your one bedroom condo with certain things and we've also considered a lot with a casita for the same reason. 6 months is starting to feel like pressure to get it all done.
If there is any way you can attend the spring rally, I can promise you that you won't regret it. You'll learn so much, meet wonderful people, and feel better about your decisions. From what I've read and heard here & there, our feelings are quite normal!
Again welcome to the "club".
Sherry
Congrats Lisa and your DH for diving right into the pool and starting this great adventure! We have been RVing for about a dozen years and FTing about 4 months after we sold off lock, stock and barrel of everything we own (it killed my DW to see the Ethan Allen Georgian Court living, dining and bedroom sold off for next to nothing!)
We are all in this together and you will see we are a very quickly growing segment of the population (heck, who can afford to buy and live in a house anymore?)
The road is waiting for those with only a windshield in front of them and no rear view mirrors!
Good luck and safe travels for the DH as he drives back!
Les
Thanks for the reassurance. It's good to know that I'm not the only one with my stomach churning...and it is hopeful that I can rest at night, at some point. My mind races with all the issues, from getting rid of stuff to mail forwarding to living on the road....there are just so many issues that are mysterious to me. If I could set my mind on just one thing at a time I think I would be a little better. I just keep second guessing this giant purchase we made before we really had all our ducks in a row. But it was the rig we wanted and I think we will ultimately be very happy we did it.
As for the STUFF issue, I'm just about ready to pitch it all out! About 15 years ago my house burned to the ground and I lost everything. After the initial grief and shock I realized I wouldn't have to clean out my garage or my junk drawer! It was quite freeing to have nothing. But then in 15 years, of course we acquired stuff again. So, so much stuff.
Thanks Pieere: It'a amazing how much my nerves have calmed just since I finally quit worrying about it and went and attacked my closet. I've made my first small dent! Yay! DH heads south next week to pick up the rig. Then more nerves: we aren't sure we can get it into our driveway, but long ago there was an accessory gravel drive to our property with a less acute bend and we may have to uncover that! Till then we have a neighbor who will let us park it in front of his barn for a while...Things are falling into place. I'm just hoping the nerves don't come back like they were! But when DH comes driving in I think I may have to hide...we have a looooong private road in the woods to our driveway and it is full of overhanging trees that need to be cut back. I think our yard guys are going to "walk" the bus in and cut as they go.
Lisa, it goes without saying you are not alone! It's amazing how things change... how WE change. For instance, once upon a time my older sister (by 2.5 years) was transferred to Atlanta (for a year). When she left, it felt as though someone had cut off my arms! We are a close-knit family and everyone pretty much remains in the same area. (By the way, I'm a native Houstonian!!) Well, I will never forget her leaving as long as I live. As a grown adult I cried my eyes out and even went to visit her 3 times in less than a year. How was I going to survive without my SISTER? Now? Now I can't wait to give up all my "stuff" and move on... with my family's blessings. A total contrast to my natural "make-up". I suppose what helped the most is what my dear mother said, "Go! For cryin' out loud. Don't let ME stop you!" Well, that's all I needed to hear. Even though I am a strong-willed, independent women (it's inherited), I've never left the "nest" so to speak. Yet, when the time comes I don't ever want to regret not taking the opportunity. It's my life and I am so ready to live it! Do something "daring" and experience things I would never experience otherwise. There will be nothing holding me back. I am soooo ready to give up the corporate rate race I could just SPIT! So, with 35 weeks and 6 days until retirement, I believe I have done just about every little bit of research I possibly can. My lists are made, my spreadsheets are in order, my contacts are up-to-date, we pretty much know the 5er we want to order (floor plan and the must-haves), the tow vehicle, you name it. I'm pretty much ready to go, just counting down. I think the only thing left is figuring out how to boondock with a residential refrigerator. (That's my next "project"!) Anyway, my point is this... don't let life pass you by. As many on this board have said, don't leave this world wishing you had done this. It's YOUR life... go ahead and live it!
Hope to see you out on the road one day... soon!
P.S. And I really want to give everyone on this board a HUGE THANK YOU for your kindness and generosity. I wouldn't be nearly this excited or prepared if it weren't for you all. Thanks!
Ditto Mary...........
I Was pulled from the road last fall, a simple little pain became a Snowball.....what should have been a simple operation for a pinched nerve , became a quad Bypass.....then I became National news When the Serial infector Stuck in the NH hospital I was handed a Virus no one wanted. and almost a year later Fighting it with all the Spirit I have , soon the time will come to return to my journey!!!
Living through others on this forum is what keeps the dream going....each ones personality grows on you, they become part of your family.....there journey takes your mind to those happy places.
there knowledge prepares you for those times when its your turn to fix it or take the trip.
They have carried me thru it for the last year each time I thought it was time to give it up, I would jump in here and my spirit grew!!!!!
Each person on here is a Hand up in there own way,, I know that everyone of them will always keep each members Dreams and best interest at heart!!!!!
Life is a gift.....use every moment of it....and always pay it forward!!!
-- Edited by Lucky Mike on Wednesday 5th of December 2012 03:05:16 PM
thing about going F/T. After all the garage sales,
selling the house, giving stuff away(this aint helping is it)
But know where full timing since 11/20/2012 and loving it.
We haven't go to go any where since dad is sick.
Wow! I am amazed at all the support! Yes, Mary Sunshine, if there's one thing I've learned in life, it's that things CHANGE! And they pretty much never end up the way you planned them. Deanna, if I can hold the camera and shoot, there'll be pics. I just have to get my hands to stop shaking!!
Lisa, bless your heart, you just crack me up! (Lucky Mike has the same effect on me!) Take a deep breath... exhale slowly, put a smile on your face and enjoy the ride. Do you have a CLUE how many people would give anything to be in your shoes... like me? Not that what "the Joneses" wants matters, but you're a lucky girl nevertheless. Relax and enjoy. Maybe one day we can picnic together in our BIG backyard!
Cheers!
P.S. I just think your excitement has actually surpassed mine! How is that possible?
Mary Sunshine,
You have taken the biggest step by pulling the trigger and pushing ahead with your dreams. As my DW said that if we wait until we think we are ready, time may have passed us by and we will regret that we did not....The one thing we realized is you must continue to believe in the dream and not give in to whims of other folks (like my sister-in-law who thinks we are nuts!). Usually we find most people who think that way don't really have a plan for themselves and that they are fearful that your plan will succeed and they will be left behind!
Good luck with the planned retirement and the future purchase of that "dream maker"!
Les
When I first came out here I was solo...left with no money and big Dream to try something new, Its been a hell of a ride and I wouldnt trade it off.
in fact they now have Assisted living for Seniors in RVs.........In a few years Im gonna hire 2 nurses to Ride around with me!!!!!!
Ha! Are you going to have them drive, too!
Gone in a Flash - Is your dad going to be okay? Sorry to hear he's ill.
BigBoomer and Lisa, I'm not sure you were around when I posted about our situation, but my DH's 89 year old aunt is living with us. We are her caretakers and have been for the past 14 months. Long story, but my anticipated retirement date may just be in God's perfect timing. Who knows? Only time will tell. But, in the meantime I don't stop dreaming. My husband and I discussed whether or not I was out of line to think about this dream of ours, and dream it every day. (After all, it was HIS dream initially. All he had to do was plant the seed. AND IT GREW!) He is fine with my excitement and planning... that is very much my nature. So, plan I did, and still do. I never quit planning! He won't let himself get excited, however, until the time comes, and understands that this dream is what keeps me going under the circumstances, literally! If it wasn't for Howard and Linda graciously allowing me to "follow them around", I don't know what I do because, after all, I live vicariously through them.
THANK YOU HOWARD AND LINDA!!!
Mary Sunshine,
Fully understand. Sue's mom lived with us for 15 years and the last 4 with Alzhiemers. Sue was her caretaker the last 4 years and left work to do so. We started RVing so that we could actually take vacations without leaving her home or worrying about her (when she was still able to travel). Long story short, upon her passing we decided to implement the plan a little earlier than orginally designed, mainly due to the fact that we did not need a huge home for just the two of us. In addition because of my long work hours and commute alot of the work was falling on my wife's shoulders. It was becoming all work and no fun. We are glad that we were able to make this lifestyle change because we wanted to and not because we were forced to do it for other reasons. We are Blessed and are thankful each day for everything we have because we see so many without.
As we tell folks we see, we just take one day at a time and make the most of each day.
Keep the Faith!
Les
Les, what you and your DW have gone through for so many years is why I try not to complain... and I KNOW we are very blessed as it could be so much worse. My DH and I do not have any children... Aunt Ruth is our, well, our first. So, it's hard because for as long as we have been married we have been foot loose and fancy free. Now we are tied down, unable to go anywhere, pretty much, or do anything together. (Just ever so seldom.) We can't even go to church together, and haven't in over a year. Aunt Ruth's dementia is not too terribly bad, so right now it is frustrating for her, but my DH and I just have to chuckle sometimes at the things she says, does, and comes up with. I hope we can always chuckle. We are truly blessed, nevertheless.
Mike, hang in there! You're amazing and I can tell you are chompin' at the bit to get outta Dodge! Know how ya feel!
Mary,
We could have written your words verbatim! For whatever reason we never had children and as my wife has said that maybe that was for a reason as GOD had a greater plan for us in taking care of her mom. Sue always said "kids come in all shapes, sizes and ages!". She really never became an issue until the last year or so but up until then we were able to take her with us. It is tough when you see what this disease does to another person. We were Blessed that we did not have to make that dreaded decision to have to place her in a home for whatever little time she had left and that she left this Earth in the arms of those who Loved her the most!
We can now look back at all the silly things she did and yes there are some real doosies!