Where Are All The RV Dreamers Lately? Forum So Quiet
Someday said
01:48 PM Oct 31, 2016
Wow, this forum has been getting quieter and quieter and quieter lately on posts/new topics etc. Just wondering if there's a way to encourage it's activity a bit more again?
Out of curiosity what are some of the main topics you enjoy getting involved in that might jazz things up a bit if we can get some banter going and hopefully bring in some new blood with an increase in activity in the forum maybe?????
Just thinking.
FTW.
RonC said
08:52 PM Oct 31, 2016
There is probably a reason for that ... what could it possibly be ... hmmm!
RonC said
09:26 PM Oct 31, 2016
There are 332 pages of members with 25 members per page (over 8,000 members). Assume 1/2 of them are no longer active ... in the last two days (Oct 30th and 31st) there were 5 posts on each day, for. A total 10 threads and one of them was shut down because it was two years old before it was "revived". This is often done and terminates activity that otherwise would make this a more active board. I do understand that some old threads are no longer viable because the subject matter (cell phone coverage, or technology for example) has changed so much that the information is outdated. Other, old threads (route planning, safety, wheel and tire info, etc.) are timeless, but closed due to age anyway. This discourages many who are new to the forum, but haven't had the opportunity to "speak up" on those threads. When closed, the intellectual property captured in those older posts is lost, and older and more experienced RVers don't post on new threads because they have already expressed their views on the topics, often several times. Jack Mayer comes to mind in that he knows a great deal about all things RV, yet rarely posts because he has said "it" so many times before. This makes his wonderful knowledge and experience less available, because his posts are in old (closed) threads and not in a "new" thread. This is an unintended consequence of closing older threads (still not clear on when a thread is too old), but it has had the effect of dampening the lively dialogue we used to have. Too bad, because I learned A LOT from those old posts.
-- Edited by RonC on Monday 31st of October 2016 09:33:53 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Monday 31st of October 2016 09:36:58 PM
Barbaraok said
11:04 PM Oct 31, 2016
Ron,
I can't speak for anyone else, but after 10 yrs on the road, we've been there, done that, have the t-shirt, and when I try to offer a suggestion it is ignored in favor of someone who has been on the road for 3-6 months. So why bother; plus this forum is HEAVILY tilted towards 5ers and obviously someone in a motorhome doesn't have anything experience that would be relevant.
Someday said
01:02 AM Nov 1, 2016
Now Barb you know there's a ton of us out there that have valued so much of what you've shared with all your years of experience and Dave's perspectives as well. I for one, learnt many years ago from you the importance of having an "emergency MH repair budget", and I've faithfully followed that advice adding to it each and every year/month which has saved out bacon more than once. I read every one of your posts if the "subject heading" appeals that I open initially. Don't stop doing what you do, you might be surprised just how many have valued your contributions over the years and there's a ton of newbies that could benefit tenfold from your guidance still today. Heck look how you helped me out a few years back when I got converted over to Macs & iPhone from my win dozer and crackberry days!
Hope you and Dave are good. I can't wait one day to be in your neck of the woods and pop by with that Vino I owe you :)
Wonder if it's worth starting some popular subject threads that might lead to some more input and sharing? Finances/budgets/travel logs/locations/boondocking/Resort Memberships/Generating Income On The Road/Which Apps and Why/Cellular Game Changers = with newer more updated content maybe? I dunno just typing aloud so to speak on thoughts to generate more life back in the old dog so to speak.
Fair comment a lot of it is a rehash of old threads but as Ron and Janice said some of the threads are so old and have died so newbies won't easily find them maybe and anything dollar related wise would have changed over time as well.
Maybe it's because folks are concentrating more on content to their own websites to generate incomes do you think? I seriously don't know, just thought it's a shame to see it so quiet for the longest while here.
Escapees hugs to you and Dave, Barb.
I agree with a lot that you say Ron and Janice, it is a shame on the timeless subjects for sure, but typically you'd expect some of the content to recirculate with Q's generated from newbies of similar content - well I'd have thought. OK, I'll try one on Cellular Service and see if it gets any interest/responses of use.
Hope everyone witnessed a safe and happy Halloween :)
solo boondocker said
07:38 AM Nov 1, 2016
Interesting thread. Most rv forums slow those time of year but with its emphasis on fulltime this one should suffer less. This forum IS big on fifthwheels so that also limits participation. There's nothing wrong with that but advice is tilted away from motorhomes.
I'm a solo and usually don't respond to "non solo" posts. I try to encourage new solo full timers when I see them. Once they get on the road, most read only. They tend to be pretty self sufficient so they're not too active on forums anyway. Solo forums don't usually last long as they become 5 or 6 people having a public conversation.
I do think forums are hurt by the everybody out for a buck syndrome. Everybody wants a "blog" (whatever the Sam Hill that means). Some greedy souls, offering no real information, just post a link to "my blog post." Twenty five years ago... or whatever, so long ago I was using a dos program to connect, people were different. They went out of their way to help others. People weren't shilling for organizations or companies.
I won't get into Facebook and other antisocial media. I'll just say I much prefer my friends to have real voices and faces nor an "avatar".
What the heck, change is going to happen whether I like it or not. Those are just my observations.
I really don't think closing old posts hurts participation. It might be best to require moderator approval to add to a thread inactive over 6 months.
solo boondocker
PIEERE said
08:39 AM Nov 1, 2016
You all mean since I have not been posting on the forums much everyone can't find topics to spark an interest??? LOL! Actually since being off the road and more stationary I haven't much to talk about!
And I know you all must of got sick of my health updates!! And I know how we despise Politics! (sigh) Good Day! PIEERE
BiggarView said
08:41 AM Nov 1, 2016
I too have noticed a bit of an ebb of activity, but to my mind is normal. Sometimes a confluence of "busy doing other stuff" just happens. This too, will pass. I have been on the forum for nearly 3 years now, and there have been a couple of "quiet" periods. I suspect that many pop in, see that nothing particularly new (to them) is going on and move on to other activities. I have noticed that sometimes activilty on here is also event driven. Bad weather, political issues that relate to RVers (but hold the partisan sauce) both come to mind as examples of upbeats in posting activity.
I think that as more internet savvy folks look into RVing, many also can falsely raise their RV IQ by not asking questions directly of those that are in the trenches. The, now getting old saw of "I saw it on the Net" just does not replace "been there, done that" knowledge when delivered without bias but with honest intent to help others following behind. There are many good folks on here that have helped us as we put our RV plans into place and we are grateful for it. Hopefully I can pass along any imparted wisdom with humility and grace when the time comes. So to the newbs out there (including me) there is no shame in asking, the illusion of knowledge is more dangerous than real knowledge.
Solo boondocker's final comment is interesting, but as Terry and indeed Howard have noted in the past, posters should take note of how cold a particular thread and what relevancy reactiveating it would have before doing so. It lessens the need for the forum "police" to step in. To their credit, Howard and with help of Terry as requested have done an admirable job of maintaining decorum on this friendly forum. By keeping religion and politics out the conversations, they have avoided turning this valuable resource into so much divisive trash that can be found elsewhere on the internet. I, for one, would not like to see that kind of activity here. It serves no useful purpose in advancing goodwill within the RV community.
Just my two cents, Brian
-- Edited by BiggarView on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 08:43:08 AM
BiggarView said
08:59 AM Nov 1, 2016
Someday wrote:
... I for one, learnt many years ago from you (Barb) the importance of having an "emergency MH (or 5er) repair budget"....
Bold emphasis added
X2. We're not even on the road yet, but it is a sound recommendation and we are ensuring this need is funded before hitting the road. Thanks Barb.
Brian
Barbaraok said
09:38 AM Nov 1, 2016
Boy, talk about feeling good over morning coffee. Thanks guys for the kudos.
Barb
NWescapee said
10:12 AM Nov 1, 2016
So I'll pile on the band wagon as well, Barb you provided a wealth of great financial insight when we were planning and just starting out. And yes, we have a very strong RV repair fund and unfortunately have had to use it more than one despite also having extended warranties. Plus now, if the job I've been offered comes through, we're finally going to get the carpet replaced. And somehow this winter, when we're in Mesa we're going to have to figure out how to get together, looking forward to meeting you in person when we're not working at one of Dale's art shows, and hoping we're done with the breakdowns that kept interfering with those plans last winter.
As one of the previously "very active" members of this forum, I've fallen prey to the "too busy" syndrome lately. Active job hunting, considering other alternatives for making a living besides the 100% virtual corporate job has had me online but in different forums, job search boards, etc, etc. Plus we've been relatively stationary since early August, a 6 week stop in one location, followed by 2 one week stops both of which were for art shows for Dale's business, then landed for another 6 weeks. Getting on the road again this weekend, time to head a little further south!!
Another reason this forum might be a little quiet is the fact that there wasn't a Fall RV Dreams Rally this year. I've noticed spikes in new members before and after rallies and definitely more questions, etc.
For those of you out there who find info in old threads, but have additional questions, start a new thread, you can always include a link to the old thread if there's something that raises a question or something you want to comment on.
Happy Fall!
-- Edited by NWescapee on Wednesday 2nd of November 2016 03:56:37 PM
RonC said
12:16 PM Nov 1, 2016
Barb, I would add my "atta-girl" to the others regarding your comments and advice. Your observation regarding this being biased towards 5th wheels is a fair one, but many subjects (budgets, travel routes, etc.) apply equally to whatever you are traveling in. Just to name a few of the things that I have learned that have been immensely helpful to me (1) The need for a class A (non CDL) license in Texas for my size rig/truck (I learned that one from you!). (2) I've learned all about truck weight ratings, trailer weight ratings and how all that figures in to what truck I needed (I did get have to get a new one based on that, ouch! ... stupid tax as Dave Ramsey would say). (3) Tires ... what all those numbers mean and why they are important (Howard, Bill, Cummins and others). (4) The importance of a TPMS system on ALL the tires ... truck and trailer (Jack). (5) The need for even better tires than I originally upgraded to (Bill, Jack and Howard). (6) The roofing material that I will eventually get when that time comes (Howard). (7) The change to my undercarriage and suspension system (MoRyde IS) that I will get when it becomes "tire time" (Jack, Bill, Howard and others). (8) Water Softner for my RV (Bill ... thanks BTW). (9) AquaGo endless hot water heater ... amazing device ... (Howard and Jack). (10) The many, many, many things I learned about the Fulltime Lifestyle (budgets, domicile, mail forwarding, internet service, satellite TV, etc.) from so many that I can't begin to list them.
So you get the idea. This website is a blessing to Newbies. Every lesson shared came from experience and many (myself included) have avoided mistakes and accidents that are the result of that gracious sharing of information. The problem with many Newbies is they don't know what they don't know ... so they don't even know what questions to ask. That is the "secret sauce" that's in those many older posts. I really don't know how to strike the proper balance between keeping important information in the conversation while controlling old posts that are no longer relevant.
Still a big fan, but would love to see more activity. I know the longtime full timers get tired of saying the same thing to an endless string of questions, but you can't really appreciate how important your contributions are. You might not be able help everybody, but you sure are helping some ... and in six months, people who don't even know they want an RV will go to a show ... join this forum and start asking questions.
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:21:13 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:24:15 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:27:36 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:38:21 PM
Someday said
02:31 PM Nov 1, 2016
Awww folks, time for a group hug!!! No seriously, really good to see us popping out of our burrows and reconnecting. Pierre as for you being off the road, I bet you and so could Lucky Mike, George & Miss Tioga and many others not still travelling, offer quite some insighst into many aspects still such as ........ hmmmm, let me think a minute. What about Some of the best money saving ideas you learnt as a FT travelling RVer? Biggest Frustrations Faced As FT/Extended Time RVers and how resolved? What's been and are your favourite non-monetized blogs and websites of FTers you enjoy following? (OK time for a couple more threads me finks!). Seriously gives a warm fuzzy feeling to see the names and characters we've so enjoyed popping back into the forum again. Believe it or not I, and I recognize some other names that did the same, only joined here after getting a little despondent when Escapees Forum, the only one initially I joined many moons ago became very quiet a while back. Mind you lurked for eons before that on both. I have to say the Escapees folks helped me tenfold in our early RVing years and for that I will be eternally grateful.
Ruth, wonderful to see you here again. Was wondering how things were going for you and Dale after your last couple of threads on the job front and frustrations with the breakdowns and which fork to take in the road so to speak. Fingers crossed that the job situation works out well for you :)
OK time to jump over and create another couple of topics that I'm sure the respondents of which can help a ton of newbies and give them some "ah, ha" moments.
Great to see the family reconnecting again!
FTW.
PS: Good point Ruth on the after Rally activity observation. Makes sense.
bjoyce said
09:25 AM Nov 2, 2016
"George & Miss Tioga and many others not still travelling" George is back in an RV - http://blog.vagabonders-supreme.net/ . More specifically two RVs, one stationary and a Casita he is pulling with a Honda Fit for short outings.
On this forum I mostly try to answer questions when I feel something is missing. Right now we are finally on our southern migration. We have had some medical issues and my mother died in September, so our focus has been elsewhere. Now we are in Eugene Oregon finishing up some RV work and hopefully we will be in Redding CA tomorrow for a week before starting family visits. We have to wait for family to be home before we can visit.
Now that I have our MaximumSignal.net cellular amplifier permanently mounted, I hope to have time to do some testing. We will see.
laurly said
09:34 AM Nov 2, 2016
I know for us, when we were newbies, I was on here constantly as the subjects were more pertinent at the time. Now that we have entered our 5th year of full-timing, the 'newness' has worn off I jump on here once in awhile to offer up something, and read what some of my 'class' is up to. Most of the time we're busy enjoying life instead!
MarkS said
10:43 AM Nov 2, 2016
As we make the transition to full-time our days are filled with cleaning out the house. I only wish I had more time to post. I bet many are digging in and storing nuts for the winter. Once the first flakes fall they will be back. Or maybe you all taught them so well the new folks just don't have questions.
Second Chance said
02:26 PM Nov 2, 2016
laurly wrote:
I know for us, when we were newbies, I was on here constantly as the subjects were more pertinent at the time. Now that we have entered our 5th year of full-timing, the 'newness' has worn off I jump on here once in awhile to offer up something, and read what some of my 'class' is up to. Most of the time we're busy enjoying life instead!
I think this - and what MarkS said about people "storing nuts for the winter" - has/have a lot to do with the ebb and flow of activity on the forum. I see some of the same trends on the other forums where I'm a member. Having had most of our "startup" questions answered and gotten through our first year of full-timing, I don't ask as many questions as I did in the beginning. With so many on the forum more seasoned and experienced than I am, I often don't chime in unless I feel I can contribute something that hasn't already been said. That doesn't mean I don't check the forum several times a week and look at new traffic. As for the being busy part, we're back near grandchildren... 'nuff said.
Rob
Camper Chronicles said
05:53 AM Nov 5, 2016
Personally I was working. The beet harvest didn't allow much time for anything else. Trying to get back into it though now that I have a little more time.
Trace
Hdrider said
06:59 AM Nov 5, 2016
I'm on here almost every day during my morning coffee, have been for roughly 5 years but don't always have anything to say.
And I agree with others Barb, we have learned a few things from you (and other's here) along the way and have spent countless hours going over things you and Linda & Howard have shared. In fact that is why 1 time per year we post our yearly expenses on our blog to share with those that care to look at them, sort of paying back if you will.
phyllen said
01:00 PM Nov 5, 2016
Yup, I can relate to what Lauren said. We have been on the road 6+ years. As a newbie I couldn't get enough of reading forums and blogs. Less interested now. Including writing my blog. Life ebbs and flows. Interests change.
TRAILERKING said
08:43 PM Nov 5, 2016
I'm still around................but who cares?
Tim & Robyn said
01:51 PM Nov 6, 2016
"Facebook and other antisocial media" I love it...
Hazel said
11:49 AM Dec 6, 2016
When we were 'RV dreamers' or wannabes, I had so many questions and read so many blogs and forums. It was a steep learning curve!
But now even after only 3 months of fulltiming, we find that we're working things out on our own. We know our Navion and dolly towing system pretty well now, after some trial and error and reading of manuals. LOL
I think you become more self-sufficient living this lifestyle. You become more confident in your own abilities to manage your rig and its systems, figure out storage, work out a routine, travel efficiently, and deal with problems (that WILL come up! ).
So basically, we're out here on the road enjoying every day, and generally prefer to talk to REAL live people who are doing the same. LOL It would be awesome to run into some of you somewhere down the road and chat with you 'in real life'!
RonC said
09:08 PM Dec 7, 2016
Bill, you are a wise and valued contributor .... I have found your contributions to be valuable and balanced. So Thank You for that.
RonC said
09:12 PM Dec 7, 2016
I do!
LarryW21 said
07:41 PM Dec 29, 2016
I'm taking a long winter's nap.
injunear said
07:24 PM Jan 10, 2017
I was in Madagascar working for two months.
Wayne
Atorth said
09:15 AM May 6, 2017
Not all the people are born rich, so I would say If I post or start a new topic here and earn $1 per post and .10 per replies then I will start to boot camp here. hahahaha
Anyways start posting a poll or giveaways.
PIEERE said
08:20 AM May 8, 2017
I am still around and read some of the posts, but who cares!! Right???
When one is not a part of the clique anymore and most of our old RV friends have gone by the wayside its not the same!
-- Edited by PIEERE on Monday 8th of May 2017 08:24:02 AM
RonC said
08:47 AM May 8, 2017
PIEERE ... I am not part of any clique (that I'm aware of) and as of yet, I haven't met anyone on this forum personally. I do hope to, but so far we're just "friends" on this board. But I try to support the newbie's on their learning journey as I was supported on mine (which is ongoing BTW). I do think it's great to share ideas and opinions and enjoy the process very much. Jump in, you have a lot to offer.
LarryW21 said
05:49 PM May 8, 2017
Still napping. Headed out June 1st.
rljclayman said
08:42 PM Jun 30, 2017
I am new to this, have been out on the road and love the rv life. There are more and more folks becoming rvers than in any time in history. I would say not allowing religious- political discussion is what is wrong with this country!! As a baby boomer I failed to speak up when other than my views were taught now my kids have been indoctrinated and as adults are shaping our future! You want more good folks signing on start a couple of threads where like minded people can discuss what truly matters, and change this so people can speak their first amendment rights!!
Barbaraok said
09:06 PM Jun 30, 2017
Might I suggest you'll find like minded people on Twitter and you can talk about/pontificate on just about anything your want.
BiggarView said
07:09 AM Jul 1, 2017
rljclayman wrote:
I am new to this, have been out on the road and love the rv life. There are more and more folks becoming rvers than in any time in history. I would say not allowing religious- political discussion is what is wrong with this country!! As a baby boomer I failed to speak up when other than my views were taught now my kids have been indoctrinated and as adults are shaping our future! You want more good folks signing on start a couple of threads where like minded people can discuss what truly matters, and change this so people can speak their first amendment rights!!
Welcome aboard. with that out of the way... The first amendment prohibits government from making laws regarding religion or free speech... it does not, however, forbid you or I from prohibiting it in your own home... How would you like it if we came into your home and started spouting off ideas and opinions that caused you or your other guests to feel uncomforatble or offended you? You'd ask us to leave. That is your right. It is not a violation of the first amendment. I'm with Barb, if you want to discuss those issues... there are plenty of other venues for you to speak your mind freely if that is your wish.
JHMO
PIEERE said
07:51 AM Jul 1, 2017
Ron C. Sorry about using the word "Clique", but not feeling part of any more! It's not the same being stationary in an RV Park and not having access to the internet like I did while workcamping!
rljclayman said
08:04 AM Jul 1, 2017
1. I was responding to the issue of not having more people active on this site.
2. If there is a thread that talks politics or religion you don't have to click on that thread, nobody is knocking on your door forcing you to listen.
Barbaraok said
12:30 PM Jul 1, 2017
PIEERE wrote:
Ron C. Sorry about using the word "Clique", but not feeling part of any more! It's not the same being stationary in an RV Park and not having access to the internet like I did while workcamping!
Don't apologize, I often feel that this is a 'cliquish' forum. I think it has to do with how the topic focus changes during the year.
Barb
-- Edited by Barbaraok on Saturday 1st of July 2017 12:33:29 PM
RonC said
12:33 PM Jul 1, 2017
Barbaraok wrote:
PIEERE wrote:
Ron C. Sorry about using the word "Clique", but not feeling part of any more! It's not the same being stationary in an RV Park and not having access to the internet like I did while workcamping!
Don't apologize, I often feel that this is a 'cliquish' forum.
Based on what?
Barbaraok said
12:36 PM Jul 1, 2017
For starts, the heavy, heavy emphasize on 5ers. But, as I said when I edited the post, it also has to do with how the 'new' topics focus changes during the year.
PIEERE said
08:07 AM Jul 3, 2017
RonC wrote:
Barbaraok wrote:
PIEERE wrote:
Ron C. Sorry about using the word "Clique", but not feeling part of any more! It's not the same being stationary in an RV Park and not having access to the internet like I did while workcamping!
Don't apologize, I often feel that this is a 'cliquish' forum.
Based on what?
This is another reason I don't post much anymore! This use to be a friendly, caring group for the first years and as it has progressed people started to take offense just like many of the other forums! Just not worth my time!
RonC said
11:00 AM Jul 3, 2017
How about going back and reading ALL the posts leading up to this. I would say that a respondent or two are wading in an imaginary mud puddle. It was pretty respectful until it took a turn.
BART said
06:43 PM Jul 3, 2017
For us, it was time to move on... I still read a few here and there, and PM folks on occasion. We used to be Alie&Jims Carrilite until we got locked out several times....
As with life and other past hobbies, sometimes you learn all you can and then move on or apply it elsewhere. Back in past lives, I was heavily involved in several racing forums, boating forums, etc. As time and interests changed, so do the sites we participate in.
RonC said
07:27 PM Jul 3, 2017
Hey BART. I remember you as Alie&Jim's Carrilite ... you had a lot of good advice, and plenty of experience. I understand how it feels answering the SAME OLD QUESTIONS over and over. But there are always new people who get interested in the lifestyle and they need the info just as much as others once did. For what it's worth ... consider staying around to help those newbies. Good to hear from you.
bjoyce said
01:26 PM Jul 4, 2017
This is still about the most polite forum I deal with. It has its moments, but mostly people are respectful. Rvillage comes next, but also has its problems. The last forum I participate on is the Escapees forum, which can get nasty, but is more active than here due to more members. All of these are much better than YouTube for newbies, since they don't have the experience to find the gems and the comments sections are full of trolls.
twice bitten said
09:07 PM Jul 4, 2017
As a newbie myself, it's disappointing to know that I might not be able to tap in to the advice of the seasoned travelers. I'm 55 years old and want to do some camp hosting so I have a million questions. It's just me so that brings up oh, another million questions, at least :) Hopefully, if I read as much of the forum topics as I can, I will learn something. Thank you all for having this forum even if things are changing.
Trish
PIEERE said
07:58 AM Jul 5, 2017
twice bitten wrote:
As a newbie myself, it's disappointing to know that I might not be able to tap in to the advice of the seasoned travelers. I'm 55 years old and want to do some camp hosting so I have a million questions. It's just me so that brings up oh, another million questions, at least :) Hopefully, if I read as much of the forum topics as I can, I will learn something. Thank you all for having this forum even if things are changing.
Trish
I Private messaged you about your interests in camp hosting!
Wow, this forum has been getting quieter and quieter and quieter lately on posts/new topics etc. Just wondering if there's a way to encourage it's activity a bit more again?
Out of curiosity what are some of the main topics you enjoy getting involved in that might jazz things up a bit if we can get some banter going and hopefully bring in some new blood with an increase in activity in the forum maybe?????
Just thinking.
FTW.
There are 332 pages of members with 25 members per page (over 8,000 members). Assume 1/2 of them are no longer active ... in the last two days (Oct 30th and 31st) there were 5 posts on each day, for. A total 10 threads and one of them was shut down because it was two years old before it was "revived". This is often done and terminates activity that otherwise would make this a more active board. I do understand that some old threads are no longer viable because the subject matter (cell phone coverage, or technology for example) has changed so much that the information is outdated. Other, old threads (route planning, safety, wheel and tire info, etc.) are timeless, but closed due to age anyway. This discourages many who are new to the forum, but haven't had the opportunity to "speak up" on those threads. When closed, the intellectual property captured in those older posts is lost, and older and more experienced RVers don't post on new threads because they have already expressed their views on the topics, often several times. Jack Mayer comes to mind in that he knows a great deal about all things RV, yet rarely posts because he has said "it" so many times before. This makes his wonderful knowledge and experience less available, because his posts are in old (closed) threads and not in a "new" thread. This is an unintended consequence of closing older threads (still not clear on when a thread is too old), but it has had the effect of dampening the lively dialogue we used to have. Too bad, because I learned A LOT from those old posts.
-- Edited by RonC on Monday 31st of October 2016 09:33:53 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Monday 31st of October 2016 09:36:58 PM
I can't speak for anyone else, but after 10 yrs on the road, we've been there, done that, have the t-shirt, and when I try to offer a suggestion it is ignored in favor of someone who has been on the road for 3-6 months. So why bother; plus this forum is HEAVILY tilted towards 5ers and obviously someone in a motorhome doesn't have anything experience that would be relevant.
Hope you and Dave are good. I can't wait one day to be in your neck of the woods and pop by with that Vino I owe you :)
Wonder if it's worth starting some popular subject threads that might lead to some more input and sharing? Finances/budgets/travel logs/locations/boondocking/Resort Memberships/Generating Income On The Road/Which Apps and Why/Cellular Game Changers = with newer more updated content maybe? I dunno just typing aloud so to speak on thoughts to generate more life back in the old dog so to speak.
Fair comment a lot of it is a rehash of old threads but as Ron and Janice said some of the threads are so old and have died so newbies won't easily find them maybe and anything dollar related wise would have changed over time as well.
Maybe it's because folks are concentrating more on content to their own websites to generate incomes do you think? I seriously don't know, just thought it's a shame to see it so quiet for the longest while here.
Escapees hugs to you and Dave, Barb.
I agree with a lot that you say Ron and Janice, it is a shame on the timeless subjects for sure, but typically you'd expect some of the content to recirculate with Q's generated from newbies of similar content - well I'd have thought. OK, I'll try one on Cellular Service and see if it gets any interest/responses of use.
Hope everyone witnessed a safe and happy Halloween :)
Interesting thread. Most rv forums slow those time of year but with its emphasis on fulltime this one should suffer less. This forum IS big on fifthwheels so that also limits participation. There's nothing wrong with that but advice is tilted away from motorhomes.
I'm a solo and usually don't respond to "non solo" posts. I try to encourage new solo full timers when I see them. Once they get on the road, most read only. They tend to be pretty self sufficient so they're not too active on forums anyway. Solo forums don't usually last long as they become 5 or 6 people having a public conversation.
I do think forums are hurt by the everybody out for a buck syndrome. Everybody wants a "blog" (whatever the Sam Hill that means). Some greedy souls, offering no real information, just post a link to "my blog post." Twenty five years ago... or whatever, so long ago I was using a dos program to connect, people were different. They went out of their way to help others. People weren't shilling for organizations or companies.
I won't get into Facebook and other antisocial media. I'll just say I much prefer my friends to have real voices and faces nor an "avatar".
What the heck, change is going to happen whether I like it or not. Those are just my observations.
I really don't think closing old posts hurts participation. It might be best to require moderator approval to add to a thread inactive over 6 months.
solo boondocker
And I know you all must of got sick of my health updates!! And I know how we despise Politics! (sigh) Good Day! PIEERE
I too have noticed a bit of an ebb of activity, but to my mind is normal. Sometimes a confluence of "busy doing other stuff" just happens. This too, will pass. I have been on the forum for nearly 3 years now, and there have been a couple of "quiet" periods. I suspect that many pop in, see that nothing particularly new (to them) is going on and move on to other activities. I have noticed that sometimes activilty on here is also event driven. Bad weather, political issues that relate to RVers (but hold the partisan sauce) both come to mind as examples of upbeats in posting activity.
I think that as more internet savvy folks look into RVing, many also can falsely raise their RV IQ by not asking questions directly of those that are in the trenches. The, now getting old saw of "I saw it on the Net" just does not replace "been there, done that" knowledge when delivered without bias but with honest intent to help others following behind. There are many good folks on here that have helped us as we put our RV plans into place and we are grateful for it. Hopefully I can pass along any imparted wisdom with humility and grace when the time comes. So to the newbs out there (including me) there is no shame in asking, the illusion of knowledge is more dangerous than real knowledge.
Solo boondocker's final comment is interesting, but as Terry and indeed Howard have noted in the past, posters should take note of how cold a particular thread and what relevancy reactiveating it would have before doing so. It lessens the need for the forum "police" to step in. To their credit, Howard and with help of Terry as requested have done an admirable job of maintaining decorum on this friendly forum. By keeping religion and politics out the conversations, they have avoided turning this valuable resource into so much divisive trash that can be found elsewhere on the internet. I, for one, would not like to see that kind of activity here. It serves no useful purpose in advancing goodwill within the RV community.
Just my two cents, Brian
-- Edited by BiggarView on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 08:43:08 AM
Bold emphasis added
X2. We're not even on the road yet, but it is a sound recommendation and we are ensuring this need is funded before hitting the road. Thanks Barb.
Brian
Barb
So I'll pile on the band wagon as well, Barb you provided a wealth of great financial insight when we were planning and just starting out. And yes, we have a very strong RV repair fund and unfortunately have had to use it more than one despite also having extended warranties. Plus now, if the job I've been offered comes through, we're finally going to get the carpet replaced. And somehow this winter, when we're in Mesa we're going to have to figure out how to get together, looking forward to meeting you in person when we're not working at one of Dale's art shows, and hoping we're done with the breakdowns that kept interfering with those plans last winter.
As one of the previously "very active" members of this forum, I've fallen prey to the "too busy" syndrome lately. Active job hunting, considering other alternatives for making a living besides the 100% virtual corporate job has had me online but in different forums, job search boards, etc, etc. Plus we've been relatively stationary since early August, a 6 week stop in one location, followed by 2 one week stops both of which were for art shows for Dale's business, then landed for another 6 weeks. Getting on the road again this weekend, time to head a little further south!!
Another reason this forum might be a little quiet is the fact that there wasn't a Fall RV Dreams Rally this year. I've noticed spikes in new members before and after rallies and definitely more questions, etc.
For those of you out there who find info in old threads, but have additional questions, start a new thread, you can always include a link to the old thread if there's something that raises a question or something you want to comment on.
Happy Fall!
-- Edited by NWescapee on Wednesday 2nd of November 2016 03:56:37 PM
Barb, I would add my "atta-girl" to the others regarding your comments and advice. Your observation regarding this being biased towards 5th wheels is a fair one, but many subjects (budgets, travel routes, etc.) apply equally to whatever you are traveling in. Just to name a few of the things that I have learned that have been immensely helpful to me (1) The need for a class A (non CDL) license in Texas for my size rig/truck (I learned that one from you!). (2) I've learned all about truck weight ratings, trailer weight ratings and how all that figures in to what truck I needed (I did get have to get a new one based on that, ouch! ... stupid tax as Dave Ramsey would say). (3) Tires ... what all those numbers mean and why they are important (Howard, Bill, Cummins and others). (4) The importance of a TPMS system on ALL the tires ... truck and trailer (Jack). (5) The need for even better tires than I originally upgraded to (Bill, Jack and Howard). (6) The roofing material that I will eventually get when that time comes (Howard). (7) The change to my undercarriage and suspension system (MoRyde IS) that I will get when it becomes "tire time" (Jack, Bill, Howard and others). (8) Water Softner for my RV (Bill ... thanks BTW). (9) AquaGo endless hot water heater ... amazing device ... (Howard and Jack). (10) The many, many, many things I learned about the Fulltime Lifestyle (budgets, domicile, mail forwarding, internet service, satellite TV, etc.) from so many that I can't begin to list them.
So you get the idea. This website is a blessing to Newbies. Every lesson shared came from experience and many (myself included) have avoided mistakes and accidents that are the result of that gracious sharing of information. The problem with many Newbies is they don't know what they don't know ... so they don't even know what questions to ask. That is the "secret sauce" that's in those many older posts. I really don't know how to strike the proper balance between keeping important information in the conversation while controlling old posts that are no longer relevant.
Still a big fan, but would love to see more activity. I know the longtime full timers get tired of saying the same thing to an endless string of questions, but you can't really appreciate how important your contributions are. You might not be able help everybody, but you sure are helping some ... and in six months, people who don't even know they want an RV will go to a show ... join this forum and start asking questions.
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:21:13 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:24:15 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:27:36 PM
-- Edited by RonC on Tuesday 1st of November 2016 12:38:21 PM
Ruth, wonderful to see you here again. Was wondering how things were going for you and Dale after your last couple of threads on the job front and frustrations with the breakdowns and which fork to take in the road so to speak. Fingers crossed that the job situation works out well for you :)
OK time to jump over and create another couple of topics that I'm sure the respondents of which can help a ton of newbies and give them some "ah, ha" moments.
Great to see the family reconnecting again!
FTW.
PS: Good point Ruth on the after Rally activity observation. Makes sense.
"George & Miss Tioga and many others not still travelling"
George is back in an RV - http://blog.vagabonders-supreme.net/ . More specifically two RVs, one stationary and a Casita he is pulling with a Honda Fit for short outings.
On this forum I mostly try to answer questions when I feel something is missing. Right now we are finally on our southern migration. We have had some medical issues and my mother died in September, so our focus has been elsewhere. Now we are in Eugene Oregon finishing up some RV work and hopefully we will be in Redding CA tomorrow for a week before starting family visits. We have to wait for family to be home before we can visit.
Now that I have our MaximumSignal.net cellular amplifier permanently mounted, I hope to have time to do some testing. We will see.
I think this - and what MarkS said about people "storing nuts for the winter" - has/have a lot to do with the ebb and flow of activity on the forum. I see some of the same trends on the other forums where I'm a member. Having had most of our "startup" questions answered and gotten through our first year of full-timing, I don't ask as many questions as I did in the beginning. With so many on the forum more seasoned and experienced than I am, I often don't chime in unless I feel I can contribute something that hasn't already been said. That doesn't mean I don't check the forum several times a week and look at new traffic. As for the being busy part, we're back near grandchildren... 'nuff said.
Rob
Trace
And I agree with others Barb, we have learned a few things from you (and other's here) along the way and have spent countless hours going over things you and Linda & Howard have shared. In fact that is why 1 time per year we post our yearly expenses on our blog to share with those that care to look at them, sort of paying back if you will.
"Facebook and other antisocial media" I love it...
But now even after only 3 months of fulltiming, we find that we're working things out on our own. We know our Navion and dolly towing system pretty well now, after some trial and error and reading of manuals. LOL
I think you become more self-sufficient living this lifestyle. You become more confident in your own abilities to manage your rig and its systems, figure out storage, work out a routine, travel efficiently, and deal with problems (that WILL come up!
So basically, we're out here on the road enjoying every day, and generally prefer to talk to REAL live people who are doing the same. LOL It would be awesome to run into some of you somewhere down the road and chat with you 'in real life'!
Bill, you are a wise and valued contributor .... I have found your contributions to be valuable and balanced. So Thank You for that.
I do!
I'm taking a long winter's nap.
I was in Madagascar working for two months.
Wayne
Anyways start posting a poll or giveaways.
When one is not a part of the clique anymore and most of our old RV friends have gone by the wayside its not the same!
-- Edited by PIEERE on Monday 8th of May 2017 08:24:02 AM
I am new to this, have been out on the road and love the rv life. There are more and more folks becoming rvers than in any time in history. I would say not allowing religious- political discussion is what is wrong with this country!! As a baby boomer I failed to speak up when other than my views were taught now my kids have been indoctrinated and as adults are shaping our future! You want more good folks signing on start a couple of threads where like minded people can discuss what truly matters, and change this so people can speak their first amendment rights!!
Welcome aboard. with that out of the way... The first amendment prohibits government from making laws regarding religion or free speech... it does not, however, forbid you or I from prohibiting it in your own home... How would you like it if we came into your home and started spouting off ideas and opinions that caused you or your other guests to feel uncomforatble or offended you? You'd ask us to leave. That is your right. It is not a violation of the first amendment. I'm with Barb, if you want to discuss those issues... there are plenty of other venues for you to speak your mind freely if that is your wish.
JHMO
1. I was responding to the issue of not having more people active on this site.
2. If there is a thread that talks politics or religion you don't have to click on that thread, nobody is knocking on your door forcing you to listen.
Don't apologize, I often feel that this is a 'cliquish' forum. I think it has to do with how the topic focus changes during the year.
Barb
-- Edited by Barbaraok on Saturday 1st of July 2017 12:33:29 PM
Based on what?
As with life and other past hobbies, sometimes you learn all you can and then move on or apply it elsewhere. Back in past lives, I was heavily involved in several racing forums, boating forums, etc. As time and interests changed, so do the sites we participate in.
Trish
I Private messaged you about your interests in camp hosting!