What a success! I've got funnies for you!
My trip to East TN from Nashville was exciting. Left out on Sat morning and the whole way I kept anticipating Monteagle Mountain, by the time I got there I felt like a pro behind the wheel. The mountain is a 6% grade and I just kept remembering Dennis Hill, RV Driving school, saying, "go slow." I did and let all the other people in a hurry speed past, I went the trucker speed and geared down to keep from burning up my brakes. No problem! Now I don't know about those Western Mountains of 10% I keep reading about but I guess by the time I get out there, I'll feel more confident.
My son and granddaughter really liked my new RV and were very proud that I went ahead and did it. We had a great place to celebrate Christmas together. Sedona loved being at my niece's house. She lives on a farm and she could run free.
My only problem with having my MH right now is that I want to start full timing right NOW. It kills me to unload and load knowing full well when I do full time, I won't have to do that at all.
Okay, ready for a funny??? 1st one-after the weekend it's time for me to drain my black/grey water tanks. Now remember this is only my second time doing this and this time I was all by myself. I pulled into the I-75 cg in Athens, TN and the sign said CLOSED. So I pull around and find the dump station. I pull up fairly close and get out of the MH. I get my rubber gloves and walk around to the dump. I opened the door and hooked everything up like it was supposed to be. My MH dealer gave me a new end to the sewer hose that didn't exactly fit the hole but it seemed to be okay. I slowly opened up the handle to the black water and swhoosh out it comes and it fills up the hose, the hose is getting bigger and bigger, all that crap is going nowhere so I picked it up to elevate it, you know, let gravity work for you?
Okay, some of you old timers are ahead of me in the story, I felt like I was playing a real-life part in RV-the movie.
Yep, you guessed it, there were the slightest pin hole holes in my sewer hose. Yep, I get sprayed real good down the front of my blouse and pants (thank goodness it missed my face.) Oh, go ahead and rotflmao, I did and I'm sure the people at the cg did too. Come to find out, that new end on the sewer hose was not turned "on" and all that "stuff" backed up and weakened my hose. OMG, what a mess. Once I figured all that out, everything worked like a charm. Grey Water-no problem. As it turned out the water faucet didn't work at this cg and I didn't have anything to clean up my surroundings so I went in to my MH (after removing shoes, gloves) started the generator, turned on the water pump and took my exterior shower and washed off the area at the dump station. Then I went back in and removed my clothes, took a quick shower and put fresh clothes on.
My, oh, my, what a hoot. I started the engine and a man came out and I rolled down my window and asked if he was the owner, he was the general manager, I asked if there was a charge and he said $7.00. Whew, I thought that was a lot for such a crappy (pun intended) place and I told him I had AAA and he said $5.00.
Next funny, well maybe not so funny but learning something I didn't know. I stopped and got gas once I was over the MTN. The pump stopped at $75.00 w/only 27 gals. I knew I had used more gas than that and called the cashier. She said I would have to put the hose up and start over as TN only allows $75.00 transaction at a time. So I properly did as I was told even though I doubted the story about TN only allowing $75.00. Armed with this knowledge I knew I would not be able to calculate my mileage on this trip. See I had put $75 in Nashville before my trip started and it didn't fill it up and I just thought I was parked on a slope, oh well, live and learn. My first time spending THAT much money on gas, guess I better get used to it, right? I'm not going to bore you with all my lessons on my first trip.
This Sat I leave with my YaYa's to spend New Years Eve at Montgomery Bell State Park so there is no telling what I'll have to tell about next. tee hee BTW, I got a cast iron dutch oven for Christmas and I will be breaking it in this weekend when I have a big fire and cook Adarondack Beans in them in, over, and under the fire. Whoopee!
Did I mention Christmas was great? We had a few MIA's from our group; Jerry & his family and then Mark, Jess & Addy so there were about 9 missing. We had a great time and the "dirty Santa" game was quite miled this year. Are we all getting too old? Naw, I think not. Hope you enjoy the slideshow.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
What fabulous weekend!!
Well, I picked up my MH on Friday, did my walk through and went over to the CG for two nights to work out any "kinks." OMG. OMG. OMG. I am so excited. It is everything I have ever dreamed of. The walk through went smoothly, very knowledgeable Service Manager for Cullum & Maxey went over every little detail. I had my nephew and a friend there, one for another set of ears and one to video tape. I would highly recommend that. After the walk through it was time to move it and set it up. This was done at dusk and could barely see. Ah Ha! That's why I brought my head lamp, to free up the both hands. (I highly recommend one of these for everyone.)
A funny thing happened during my walk through. I was outside the rig and Theda came out and said, "Carolyn, you don't have a bathroom door!" I said, "oh yes I do." She said, "no you don't." I said, "yes I do, its a pocket door, I'll show you in a few minutes." I went into the rig and sure enough NO BATHROOM DOOR, how in the heck did I miss that?? How did Roy miss that? How did Margie miss that? How did Bud (owner of dealership)miss that? How did Mike (salesman) miss that? Needless to say it has been a joke about how non observant we all are. What to do, what to do? I would say shower curtain, folding door, still trying to decide but for right now it will be a shower curtain with a statement, I can always change my mind and the curtain. It's just for privacy anyway.
I used every appliance, took a shower, entertained and then the rains came. Oops no awning, it was windy too. I had as many as 8 people in my rig at one time and we were not crowded. Margie came over early Sat morning, she's my new RV friend from Gallatin. Then Randy, Debbie and Melissa and in a little while, Ron and Becky came. Enough room and had a good time, eating popcorn and drinking a little wine.
Sedona did not like the rig. Too many new sounds and distractions for her. Finally by Sat evening, she was either "dog" tired and nothing would have awakened her at that point because she slept all night. By Sunday she was an old pro at finding her comfort spot so she could she the comings and going of people. She was just too funny to watch.
A part for the ice maker did not come it and there was a leak at the outside shower but other than those two things, every thing was hunkydorey! I'm pleased as punch! Oh, probably the most important thing, I emptied the crapper all by myself and didn't have an "RV" incident!
Yippeeeee I'll head to East TN for Christmas in her and then my ya ya's and I (and Sedona, of course) are going to a state park, Montgomery Bell, to celebrate New Year's Eve in her. Maybe after a few Maragritas and she will have a name! lol
A funny thing happened during my walk through. I was outside the rig and Theda came out and said, "Carolyn, you don't have a bathroom door!" I said, "oh yes I do." She said, "no you don't." I said, "yes I do, its a pocket door, I'll show you in a few minutes." I went into the rig and sure enough NO BATHROOM DOOR, how in the heck did I miss that?? How did Roy miss that? How did Margie miss that? How did Bud (owner of dealership)miss that? How did Mike (salesman) miss that? Needless to say it has been a joke about how non observant we all are. What to do, what to do? I would say shower curtain, folding door, still trying to decide but for right now it will be a shower curtain with a statement, I can always change my mind and the curtain. It's just for privacy anyway.
I used every appliance, took a shower, entertained and then the rains came. Oops no awning, it was windy too. I had as many as 8 people in my rig at one time and we were not crowded. Margie came over early Sat morning, she's my new RV friend from Gallatin. Then Randy, Debbie and Melissa and in a little while, Ron and Becky came. Enough room and had a good time, eating popcorn and drinking a little wine.
Sedona did not like the rig. Too many new sounds and distractions for her. Finally by Sat evening, she was either "dog" tired and nothing would have awakened her at that point because she slept all night. By Sunday she was an old pro at finding her comfort spot so she could she the comings and going of people. She was just too funny to watch.
A part for the ice maker did not come it and there was a leak at the outside shower but other than those two things, every thing was hunkydorey! I'm pleased as punch! Oh, probably the most important thing, I emptied the crapper all by myself and didn't have an "RV" incident!
Yippeeeee I'll head to East TN for Christmas in her and then my ya ya's and I (and Sedona, of course) are going to a state park, Montgomery Bell, to celebrate New Year's Eve in her. Maybe after a few Maragritas and she will have a name! lol
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Count Down
Wow, I am so excited and can't wait until Dec 14 when I get to pick up my RV, have got to come up with a name for her. Help me out!
I had packed everything into one room and now all that stuff is loaded into my car, am I anxious or what? I still have a little room to add the dishes and food I plan on preparing for our meals. I have to try everything out.
I borrowed a video camera from Randy & Debbie so I can tape everything during my walk through, just in case I forget something and have to refer back to it. Either Roy or Theda will video, just depends on which one will be available. Theda has had a back procedure done this week so will be unable to bend so I may end up doing it, who knows, I know it will get done. I thought video taping was a good idea.
OMG, do you know what they did at work today? They blocked access to this website! Yes, and Craigslist. Man, they take all the fun away.
Can't decide if I am going to leave Sedona home this weekend or not. She definitely doesn't need to be there on Friday, my walk through. The weather is supposed to very cold on Sat & Sun so I'll have to play it by ear on her presence.
Did I tell you that I am going to get to leave my rig at the center for a few days and then I can bring it home for a few more days before I leave for Etowah and Christmas vacation. That has worked out so great! I can get it really ready for my trip and those who want to can see it. Then after Christmas it goes to Clarksville.
I made my and Theda's appointment today for the RV Driving School in Bowling Green in May during Life on Wheels. I figure she will be going with me some and if I get tired, I want someone who I know has been trained to drive and not just someone who has been driving for drivings sake. We will probably stay for the LOW conference or at least I will, don't know about her yet. I will be going to the pre-conference which is where RV technicians go over the rig with a fine tooth comb and then teach you more. I will probably be the best educated RV owner around. At least I'm trying to do it right. Something else to look forward to.
I picked up our documents for Cancun yesterday. Now we only have 2 months to wait. Feb will get here fast.
I am still having problems with my Craigslist sale. The guy who bought it paid through paypal and they have not deposited my $$ yet. I'm gonna give it a few more days before I file a complaint. I just sold my Lady Vols/Lady Dores tickets and the person paid me cash. I love green!
Out of the blue, my nephew Jimmy called me, seems he has been in Nashville today for some research at the Library & Archives. He is into our geneaology and was seeing if anything else had showed up. Of course he had other things going on. How I knew he was in town? Roy called me and said guess who I ran into at Opry Mills? I said how would I know and he said he's from our side of the family, I thought and said Derek (simply because he is in M'boro going to school) but no it was Jimmy. Now what are the chance of them running into each other in a huge mall with lot of people. It was meant to be.
Until next post...
I had packed everything into one room and now all that stuff is loaded into my car, am I anxious or what? I still have a little room to add the dishes and food I plan on preparing for our meals. I have to try everything out.
I borrowed a video camera from Randy & Debbie so I can tape everything during my walk through, just in case I forget something and have to refer back to it. Either Roy or Theda will video, just depends on which one will be available. Theda has had a back procedure done this week so will be unable to bend so I may end up doing it, who knows, I know it will get done. I thought video taping was a good idea.
OMG, do you know what they did at work today? They blocked access to this website! Yes, and Craigslist. Man, they take all the fun away.
Can't decide if I am going to leave Sedona home this weekend or not. She definitely doesn't need to be there on Friday, my walk through. The weather is supposed to very cold on Sat & Sun so I'll have to play it by ear on her presence.
Did I tell you that I am going to get to leave my rig at the center for a few days and then I can bring it home for a few more days before I leave for Etowah and Christmas vacation. That has worked out so great! I can get it really ready for my trip and those who want to can see it. Then after Christmas it goes to Clarksville.
I made my and Theda's appointment today for the RV Driving School in Bowling Green in May during Life on Wheels. I figure she will be going with me some and if I get tired, I want someone who I know has been trained to drive and not just someone who has been driving for drivings sake. We will probably stay for the LOW conference or at least I will, don't know about her yet. I will be going to the pre-conference which is where RV technicians go over the rig with a fine tooth comb and then teach you more. I will probably be the best educated RV owner around. At least I'm trying to do it right. Something else to look forward to.
I picked up our documents for Cancun yesterday. Now we only have 2 months to wait. Feb will get here fast.
I am still having problems with my Craigslist sale. The guy who bought it paid through paypal and they have not deposited my $$ yet. I'm gonna give it a few more days before I file a complaint. I just sold my Lady Vols/Lady Dores tickets and the person paid me cash. I love green!
Out of the blue, my nephew Jimmy called me, seems he has been in Nashville today for some research at the Library & Archives. He is into our geneaology and was seeing if anything else had showed up. Of course he had other things going on. How I knew he was in town? Roy called me and said guess who I ran into at Opry Mills? I said how would I know and he said he's from our side of the family, I thought and said Derek (simply because he is in M'boro going to school) but no it was Jimmy. Now what are the chance of them running into each other in a huge mall with lot of people. It was meant to be.
Until next post...
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Jonathan's & Taylor's-Kingsland GA
My goodness, much has been going on. Sorry I haven't posted in a few days but...
I went to Jonathan's for the TRF Family day this weekend. I flew into Jacksonville and he picked me up. It's only about 20 minutes from his house to the airport. Not bad. Taylor was not home when we got there but in about 30 minutes here she came, hot, sweaty and out of breath. She had run most of the way from school because she wanted to see her Gran so bad. That made me feel good.
TAYLOR COOKED BREAKFAST FOR ME! Two mornings to be exact. She is growing up so fast.
Jonathan is the environmental/safety supervisor for the Trident Refit Facility which keeps the submarine in tip top shape. Huge responsibility and I didn't know how much until I went there. There were two checkpoints we had to go through and show our ID's before even getting to where we needed to be. First I got to see his office and meet some of his staff. They thought highly and were quick to tell me how good it was to work for him. Now, you all know how that makes a mother feel. He is quite the young man. I think I did good.
We next went to the diver station and the navy guys let me put on their current model of the bubble helmet. The big thing they put over their heads to dive while working on the subs. My goodness it was heavy and a little too confining for my sake.
It was time for some lunch and we got over to their pavillion and had hamburgers and hotdogs. It was quite the celebration. They had a Navy Dixieland Band (Becky, Ron would have loved this) playing. Made my legs want to dance. I think I embarassed Jonathan just a little during the dancing part.
Then we headed down to the Waterfront. OMG, this is where the dry dock is where they bring in those big Trident Submarines in and work on them. It is huge and is the largest covered drydock in the world. I'm not sure how much I can say about this place here but it is just amazing. We toured the machine shops, wood shop, and lab. They make all their tools and fix all the broken equipment right on base. These folks are very talented. I can imagine that it would be an environmental/safety nightmare to those who are trying to enforce all the federal rules. What a team it would take!
Our very special treat next was Taylor's idea. When Jonathan told her about family day she said why don't you take us down to where the dolphins are. Well, though contacts, Jonathan was able to get his team and their families a special private showing of the marine mammal program at the base. We got to see the dolphins and sea lions work their magic. The trainers are so talented and patient with these animals. Taylor got to feed and pet the dolphin. They did tricks and the trainers put their harnesses on so they could show us how they work. What a treat indeed! What a day! I was fortunate to get to go down there, it worked out great.
When we left the base we were tired & hungry. We stopped at Aunt B's in St Mary's where her motto is "Aunt B's where you get your fat back!" It was buffett and sure enough, there was fat back on the buffett. OMG, her motto was literal. Good southern food. Fried everything!
It was so good to visit with Jonathan, Taylor and her 6 American girl dolls. I'm sure I should remember their names but I don't, I'm sorry to say. There was a fashion show and then of course they had to go to the beauty shop to get their hair styled. It was fun.
When I got to the airport the plane was delayed because of the snow in Ohio. Had to wait about an hour. I wanted to continue watching the Titans game but when I got to the airport they were playing the Jaguars, imagine that! In Jacksonville and watching the Jaguars? Go figure! LOL Titans lost in OT anyway.
On Monday I took Theda to the hospital for a procedure on her back. She will be with me a few days recruperating. Hopefully this will get her back to GO!
Countdown, picking up my RV on Friday. Still haven't named her but I'm sure we will all come up with something. I did get her insurance. I think I told you about Farm Bureau. Well, I went with them. Their price was just right. I got two other quotes from RV Insurance companies and one was $951 the other was $949. I just couldn't afford that so I'll be keeping my RV in Clarksville instead of in Hendersonville. It's only about 20 more miles from my house but saving $600 per year, it was a no brainer. So that is done. I getting my stuff put in one part of my house so I can load it up when I head out on Friday. So much to do. It's fun though.
More later!
I went to Jonathan's for the TRF Family day this weekend. I flew into Jacksonville and he picked me up. It's only about 20 minutes from his house to the airport. Not bad. Taylor was not home when we got there but in about 30 minutes here she came, hot, sweaty and out of breath. She had run most of the way from school because she wanted to see her Gran so bad. That made me feel good.
TAYLOR COOKED BREAKFAST FOR ME! Two mornings to be exact. She is growing up so fast.
Jonathan is the environmental/safety supervisor for the Trident Refit Facility which keeps the submarine in tip top shape. Huge responsibility and I didn't know how much until I went there. There were two checkpoints we had to go through and show our ID's before even getting to where we needed to be. First I got to see his office and meet some of his staff. They thought highly and were quick to tell me how good it was to work for him. Now, you all know how that makes a mother feel. He is quite the young man. I think I did good.
We next went to the diver station and the navy guys let me put on their current model of the bubble helmet. The big thing they put over their heads to dive while working on the subs. My goodness it was heavy and a little too confining for my sake.
It was time for some lunch and we got over to their pavillion and had hamburgers and hotdogs. It was quite the celebration. They had a Navy Dixieland Band (Becky, Ron would have loved this) playing. Made my legs want to dance. I think I embarassed Jonathan just a little during the dancing part.
Then we headed down to the Waterfront. OMG, this is where the dry dock is where they bring in those big Trident Submarines in and work on them. It is huge and is the largest covered drydock in the world. I'm not sure how much I can say about this place here but it is just amazing. We toured the machine shops, wood shop, and lab. They make all their tools and fix all the broken equipment right on base. These folks are very talented. I can imagine that it would be an environmental/safety nightmare to those who are trying to enforce all the federal rules. What a team it would take!
Our very special treat next was Taylor's idea. When Jonathan told her about family day she said why don't you take us down to where the dolphins are. Well, though contacts, Jonathan was able to get his team and their families a special private showing of the marine mammal program at the base. We got to see the dolphins and sea lions work their magic. The trainers are so talented and patient with these animals. Taylor got to feed and pet the dolphin. They did tricks and the trainers put their harnesses on so they could show us how they work. What a treat indeed! What a day! I was fortunate to get to go down there, it worked out great.
When we left the base we were tired & hungry. We stopped at Aunt B's in St Mary's where her motto is "Aunt B's where you get your fat back!" It was buffett and sure enough, there was fat back on the buffett. OMG, her motto was literal. Good southern food. Fried everything!
It was so good to visit with Jonathan, Taylor and her 6 American girl dolls. I'm sure I should remember their names but I don't, I'm sorry to say. There was a fashion show and then of course they had to go to the beauty shop to get their hair styled. It was fun.
When I got to the airport the plane was delayed because of the snow in Ohio. Had to wait about an hour. I wanted to continue watching the Titans game but when I got to the airport they were playing the Jaguars, imagine that! In Jacksonville and watching the Jaguars? Go figure! LOL Titans lost in OT anyway.
On Monday I took Theda to the hospital for a procedure on her back. She will be with me a few days recruperating. Hopefully this will get her back to GO!
Countdown, picking up my RV on Friday. Still haven't named her but I'm sure we will all come up with something. I did get her insurance. I think I told you about Farm Bureau. Well, I went with them. Their price was just right. I got two other quotes from RV Insurance companies and one was $951 the other was $949. I just couldn't afford that so I'll be keeping my RV in Clarksville instead of in Hendersonville. It's only about 20 more miles from my house but saving $600 per year, it was a no brainer. So that is done. I getting my stuff put in one part of my house so I can load it up when I head out on Friday. So much to do. It's fun though.
More later!
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Wednesday, December 5, 2007-I DID IT!
As you can tell from my title, I did it! I am now the proud owner of a 2003 Itasca Sunrise 36M motorhome. Yes I chose a class A motorhome (MH). I'll post pictures of course. It has 2 slides, V10 Chevy engine, man it up and moves. It has been well taken care of and only has 14,000 miles on it. I have been very busy, as you can imagine, doing research, talking to people, test driving and all that goes into making a huge purchase such as this.
The salesman, Bud, told me if I had waited until April or May I would be spending a considerable amount more money. I have to tell you about my test drive. I was so nervous, the tension in my neck and back was horrible for the first 3 miles or so and then I began to relax. I went on Briley Parkway, onto I65 north to Long Hollow Pike and then over to Conference drive and back to Briley Pkwy. I pulled into Two Rivers Baptist Church parking lot where I was able to back up, pull forward and reback and continue until I got it where it was supposed to be. All I kept hearing was Dick Reed's voice in my ear saying, "slow, go slow, slow." He was the driving instructor at the Life on Wheels Conference in Bowling Green. I have those notes and reviewed them before my big day.
I tell you that conference really helped me be prepared. I am planning on going again this year. I'll know more this year and it will mean much more. I have a different perspective and mission this time than last.
My MH has 2 slides, 1 in the LR and 1 in the BR. The sofa makes a bed and I have another side chair in the lounge area. The kitchen has corian counter tops with a fold down for more counter space. It has a large refrigerator with and icemaker and beside the refer is a pull out pantry. Then there is a little shelf with mirror behind it for something. Then there is the booth dinette that also makes a bed (Taylor?) and has storage under the booths. There is a side hallway and in the hallway is a place for a washer/dryer (all in one) and the plumbing for that. Next is the bathroom, which has the usual. The bedroom has a TV, desk huge wardrobe (3 doors) and six drawers. The bed is on hydralic lifts and there is storage underneath. The colors are muted and I am going to have to do something to bring out my personality. I'll figure it out and I have plenty of time to do that. Missi already bought me patio lights for my b'day last year and now I get to use them.
My MH will be ready on Friday, Dec 14. I will go to the dealership to do a walk through and will become familiar with all the systems. They said it would take about 4 hours. Then they want me to stay in the campgroung (cg) for two nights and get familiar with it, you know, take shower, cook (?what's that?) use all the systems and then if anything goes wrong, they will hop across the fence and help me out. Sounds like a terrific plan to me. Bud said I could take it over and back it into the campsite, who me? That will be interesting.
That's about all I can report right now, I'm busy making lists. What to take out with me, what I will need to buy, gift list on, on, on, you get the idea! So many lists, hope I can keep them up.
Oh, I am going to keep it out at my friend, Becky, house. They have a huge driveway and I believe it will be out of the way, at least as out of the way as a 36' MH can be out of the way. I believe that Ron, Becky's DH (darling husband) is excited. He said he would start it for me every once in a while. Becky thinks DH might get the bug if it sits out there. I hope he doesn't get too much of a bug because then I would have to find someplace to put it! lol No, really it is great to have friends such as them.
The other thing, I called Farm Bureau today for my insurance. I have everything thing with them and have been a member since about 1978. They will not insure my rig because it is going to be kept away from me. Now, tell me, where in the heck am I going to put my rig since I live in a condo, which is what I told Andy. I told him if I had to get my RV insurance somewhere else I would move everything, didn't seem to bother them. Guess they have gotten too big now. Guess I'll do insurance shopping now. Gosh, if it's not one thing it's another.
OOH, I forgot to mention that my neice Deborah, is going let me park my rig in her driveway during Christmas there with the family. She has a 30 amp plug and I can just set it up quite nicely. Jonathan, Taylor and I will have our own little house to have Christmas together after the big family of 52 gathers. We have missed that since Mama passed. My sister, Wanda is great, don't get me wrong, we have enjoyed our Christmases with her but this just allows everyone their privacy. I hope the weather will be good because if it's not, my MH will remain parked. lol
I have got to name her! Any suggestions? Let me know, I'll narrow them down and then we can all vote. That should be fun!
The salesman, Bud, told me if I had waited until April or May I would be spending a considerable amount more money. I have to tell you about my test drive. I was so nervous, the tension in my neck and back was horrible for the first 3 miles or so and then I began to relax. I went on Briley Parkway, onto I65 north to Long Hollow Pike and then over to Conference drive and back to Briley Pkwy. I pulled into Two Rivers Baptist Church parking lot where I was able to back up, pull forward and reback and continue until I got it where it was supposed to be. All I kept hearing was Dick Reed's voice in my ear saying, "slow, go slow, slow." He was the driving instructor at the Life on Wheels Conference in Bowling Green. I have those notes and reviewed them before my big day.
I tell you that conference really helped me be prepared. I am planning on going again this year. I'll know more this year and it will mean much more. I have a different perspective and mission this time than last.
My MH has 2 slides, 1 in the LR and 1 in the BR. The sofa makes a bed and I have another side chair in the lounge area. The kitchen has corian counter tops with a fold down for more counter space. It has a large refrigerator with and icemaker and beside the refer is a pull out pantry. Then there is a little shelf with mirror behind it for something. Then there is the booth dinette that also makes a bed (Taylor?) and has storage under the booths. There is a side hallway and in the hallway is a place for a washer/dryer (all in one) and the plumbing for that. Next is the bathroom, which has the usual. The bedroom has a TV, desk huge wardrobe (3 doors) and six drawers. The bed is on hydralic lifts and there is storage underneath. The colors are muted and I am going to have to do something to bring out my personality. I'll figure it out and I have plenty of time to do that. Missi already bought me patio lights for my b'day last year and now I get to use them.
My MH will be ready on Friday, Dec 14. I will go to the dealership to do a walk through and will become familiar with all the systems. They said it would take about 4 hours. Then they want me to stay in the campgroung (cg) for two nights and get familiar with it, you know, take shower, cook (?what's that?) use all the systems and then if anything goes wrong, they will hop across the fence and help me out. Sounds like a terrific plan to me. Bud said I could take it over and back it into the campsite, who me? That will be interesting.
That's about all I can report right now, I'm busy making lists. What to take out with me, what I will need to buy, gift list on, on, on, you get the idea! So many lists, hope I can keep them up.
Oh, I am going to keep it out at my friend, Becky, house. They have a huge driveway and I believe it will be out of the way, at least as out of the way as a 36' MH can be out of the way. I believe that Ron, Becky's DH (darling husband) is excited. He said he would start it for me every once in a while. Becky thinks DH might get the bug if it sits out there. I hope he doesn't get too much of a bug because then I would have to find someplace to put it! lol No, really it is great to have friends such as them.
The other thing, I called Farm Bureau today for my insurance. I have everything thing with them and have been a member since about 1978. They will not insure my rig because it is going to be kept away from me. Now, tell me, where in the heck am I going to put my rig since I live in a condo, which is what I told Andy. I told him if I had to get my RV insurance somewhere else I would move everything, didn't seem to bother them. Guess they have gotten too big now. Guess I'll do insurance shopping now. Gosh, if it's not one thing it's another.
OOH, I forgot to mention that my neice Deborah, is going let me park my rig in her driveway during Christmas there with the family. She has a 30 amp plug and I can just set it up quite nicely. Jonathan, Taylor and I will have our own little house to have Christmas together after the big family of 52 gathers. We have missed that since Mama passed. My sister, Wanda is great, don't get me wrong, we have enjoyed our Christmases with her but this just allows everyone their privacy. I hope the weather will be good because if it's not, my MH will remain parked. lol
I have got to name her! Any suggestions? Let me know, I'll narrow them down and then we can all vote. That should be fun!
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Well, I know it has been a while since I have been here but I have been a little busy.
Thursday night, Roy, Theda and I went to Zaney's Comedy Club. OMG, it was such a good time. I can't remember when I have laughed that hard. The comedian was Lavelle Crawford, 2nd place winner on Last Comic Standing. His show was a little more risque than the NBC version but let me tell you, it was good. I was so glad we went. Theda had been at my house because she is having very bad back problems and she was going to see a Nashville Dr. He did some tests and then she had to return for the results and to discuss what was going to happen. Since she was here, we decided to go to Zaney's. Glad we did because it helped all of us get our endorphins going.
Friday was a ho hum day. All that was different was the fact that I picked up Cindy from the airport. She had gone to Orlando for a business trip which I usually go but I didn't this time. She is going again in April and it would be nice to go then but I think I am going to be in the thros of our new computer system transition, Edison, and I won't be doing anything much but working.
Today, I met a forum friend who RV's. We had hoped there would be about four of us but it ended up being just me and her. We met for lunch at Cracker Barrel at Music Valley Dr. That's close to some RV places so I thought I would pass the time and check some out in person that I had seen on the internet. I went to Cullum & Maxey to see the Winnebago Voyager 32H. I liked the idea of that because it's fairly short and it has a full wall slide. Once I saw it, it's not for me. Not enough room for me to full time in. I'm sure it would be okay if I were going camping in it but not for living. Margie said something today that made me think, are you going to travel or live in it. Both would be my answer but I will use my toad (word for the vehicle towed behind an RV). Now you may be asking yourself about now, Isn't a Winnebago a class A motor home? Yep, you are right. Changed my mind again. Hey it's my prerogative, right?
I have given it more thought and I believe Jonathan and Theda have some very good points. I think I have found a brand that is suited for me.
While at Cullum & Maxey, Bud, the salesman said, have you ever done this before? I said no. He highly suggested I get a used MH, try it out before I retire and by the time I do retire I will have figured out what I want and what I don't want in a MH or if I even want a MH. He said it would also give me more confidence in driving it around and towing with it. Now, you know what, that makes a lot of sense to me. He happened to have one that he had just gotten. It is an Itasca (made by Winnebago) Sunrise 36M, it has 14,000 miles on it, is a 2003 model and is just as cute as can be. I am thinking it over. It has much of what I have on my list of wants. I'll go to the credit union on Monday and see what I can work out. I believe things are working out okay.
Talked to Jonathan tonight and told him about it. I told him that we may just have a place to have our Christmas this year when they come up. See since my Mama died a few years ago, Jonathan, Taylor and I have stayed with Wanda & Don and had our Christmas there. That was not a problem but it just seemed like we were intruding. This way, we will have our own little place. I think that is just such a cool idea, if it works out.
I also thought that it would be a great little place to have a new years eve party. Get a few friends, have a bond fire, have a fairly quite evening. What a way to welcome 2008. Time will tell if all this works out.
I have to find a place to park/store it. I can't keep it here at my condo so I'll have to research to find out what's available. I have read on some forums and RV websites that the worst vandalism takes place in locked, gated storage areas. That's a little disturbing.
After I got finished at the RV place, I went to Vanderbilt. My nephew, Darrell Jr and his son Corey were there. Corey is going to baseball camp. It was good to see them. At this baseball camp were 38 colleges and 4 pro teams represented. Guess they were scouting the best of the best. I am so glad that Corey is part of the best.
Came home and watched that horrible UT vs LSU SEC championship game. We lost. We played horribly. Guess we will have to wait till next year, right?
Thursday night, Roy, Theda and I went to Zaney's Comedy Club. OMG, it was such a good time. I can't remember when I have laughed that hard. The comedian was Lavelle Crawford, 2nd place winner on Last Comic Standing. His show was a little more risque than the NBC version but let me tell you, it was good. I was so glad we went. Theda had been at my house because she is having very bad back problems and she was going to see a Nashville Dr. He did some tests and then she had to return for the results and to discuss what was going to happen. Since she was here, we decided to go to Zaney's. Glad we did because it helped all of us get our endorphins going.
Friday was a ho hum day. All that was different was the fact that I picked up Cindy from the airport. She had gone to Orlando for a business trip which I usually go but I didn't this time. She is going again in April and it would be nice to go then but I think I am going to be in the thros of our new computer system transition, Edison, and I won't be doing anything much but working.
Today, I met a forum friend who RV's. We had hoped there would be about four of us but it ended up being just me and her. We met for lunch at Cracker Barrel at Music Valley Dr. That's close to some RV places so I thought I would pass the time and check some out in person that I had seen on the internet. I went to Cullum & Maxey to see the Winnebago Voyager 32H. I liked the idea of that because it's fairly short and it has a full wall slide. Once I saw it, it's not for me. Not enough room for me to full time in. I'm sure it would be okay if I were going camping in it but not for living. Margie said something today that made me think, are you going to travel or live in it. Both would be my answer but I will use my toad (word for the vehicle towed behind an RV). Now you may be asking yourself about now, Isn't a Winnebago a class A motor home? Yep, you are right. Changed my mind again. Hey it's my prerogative, right?
I have given it more thought and I believe Jonathan and Theda have some very good points. I think I have found a brand that is suited for me.
While at Cullum & Maxey, Bud, the salesman said, have you ever done this before? I said no. He highly suggested I get a used MH, try it out before I retire and by the time I do retire I will have figured out what I want and what I don't want in a MH or if I even want a MH. He said it would also give me more confidence in driving it around and towing with it. Now, you know what, that makes a lot of sense to me. He happened to have one that he had just gotten. It is an Itasca (made by Winnebago) Sunrise 36M, it has 14,000 miles on it, is a 2003 model and is just as cute as can be. I am thinking it over. It has much of what I have on my list of wants. I'll go to the credit union on Monday and see what I can work out. I believe things are working out okay.
Talked to Jonathan tonight and told him about it. I told him that we may just have a place to have our Christmas this year when they come up. See since my Mama died a few years ago, Jonathan, Taylor and I have stayed with Wanda & Don and had our Christmas there. That was not a problem but it just seemed like we were intruding. This way, we will have our own little place. I think that is just such a cool idea, if it works out.
I also thought that it would be a great little place to have a new years eve party. Get a few friends, have a bond fire, have a fairly quite evening. What a way to welcome 2008. Time will tell if all this works out.
I have to find a place to park/store it. I can't keep it here at my condo so I'll have to research to find out what's available. I have read on some forums and RV websites that the worst vandalism takes place in locked, gated storage areas. That's a little disturbing.
After I got finished at the RV place, I went to Vanderbilt. My nephew, Darrell Jr and his son Corey were there. Corey is going to baseball camp. It was good to see them. At this baseball camp were 38 colleges and 4 pro teams represented. Guess they were scouting the best of the best. I am so glad that Corey is part of the best.
Came home and watched that horrible UT vs LSU SEC championship game. We lost. We played horribly. Guess we will have to wait till next year, right?
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
I just have to share this post with you. I get it from the fulltime RV'er newsletter and boy does this hit home and say a lot. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. http://rvtravel.com/blog/rvnow/2007/11/rv-now-before-its-too-late.html
Last night I went to the Lady Vanderbilt and Duke basketball game. It was a good game and the Lady Dores beat Duke quite handily. It was a good game and my seats are pretty good. I don't know what happened to the design of the gym at Vandy. My seats are a perfect view of the floor and easy to get in and out of but I can't see the jumbotrom from my seat. There is a huge overhang that prevents me from doing that. It also blocks a lot of the light and the jury is out as to whether I like these seats. The season tickets were reasonably priced and I got the Vandy tickets so I could have good seats for the Lady Vols when they come to town. See I usually end up in the nosebleed section for that game so I thought, hey, I'll just get season tickets and be assured of good seats. Guess what? I'm going to be gone to Cancun for the Lady Vols vs Lady Dores game! How's that for proper prior planning? NOT! Anyway I'll be selling my tickets (4) to some lucky Lady Vols fan I'm sure. Lotus and I went in together to get these tickets and since they are on bleachers we decided that in order to have enough room we would just get four tickets. Now we can take people if we want or we can just spread out. Last night was a blast. Theda went with me and Roy was going to go but I couldn't get him awake. About midway through the game here pops this person down beside me, it's Roy and he found me. Seems once he got to the gym, he asked the doorman about the game, unbeknownst to him it was a friend he golfed with. He told about me & my tickets and Andy pointed him in the right direction and he found me. What are the chances? We all had fun.
Theda and I were talking about the RV last night on the way to the game. She has never said a whole lot about my idea except that she was proud for me and that she would like to join me somewhere on one of my trips. Well, last night she comes out with a "I really think you need to go with a Class A!" What? Where did that come from? I said, "and why do you think I need a Class A?" She said I think they would be safer. I said, "what else?" She said, "well, with your shoulder the way it is, I don't think you are going to be able to do all that is required of setting up a 5'er!" Anyway the discussion went back and forth for a while and now I'm thinking, 'is she right?, should I explore that a little more?' I'll probably change my mind a million times before the big day. She does have me thinking. That's what I need, someone to keep reminding me and posing questions to me, make me think things through. You see, Theda is not one for talking much but is one for when she does speak, one should listen. The is a sly ole bird!
I'm pretty pumped about Saturday. Not only is it the SEC championships but I am meeting some women RV'ers for lunch. We are going to plan a get together (gtg) for some of the ladies around this area so that we can get together and exchange information and stories about the RV'ing lifestyle. I am very excited about that and I'll let you know more about it after Saturday. Oh, and we are supposed to scope out some camp grounds (cg) places where we can have the gtg and people can bring their rigs if they want. How about that, I'm already talking about rigs. Ooooh, I get so excited about this. More later.
I was about to forgeth DWTS, can you believe who won it? I love Helio's energy and yes, he could dance well but I thought Mel was the better of the two. OMG, I am so glad that Marie went out. If she had won, it probably would have been the end of DWTS. I like Marie and all and I know her fan base is huge but she is no dancer. Anyway, it's okay I just wished a women had won, we have had too many men win it and men don't have as many steps to learn as the women. I love this show! Now I can't wait for 24 and I hope the writers strike hasn't delayed that show.
Last night I went to the Lady Vanderbilt and Duke basketball game. It was a good game and the Lady Dores beat Duke quite handily. It was a good game and my seats are pretty good. I don't know what happened to the design of the gym at Vandy. My seats are a perfect view of the floor and easy to get in and out of but I can't see the jumbotrom from my seat. There is a huge overhang that prevents me from doing that. It also blocks a lot of the light and the jury is out as to whether I like these seats. The season tickets were reasonably priced and I got the Vandy tickets so I could have good seats for the Lady Vols when they come to town. See I usually end up in the nosebleed section for that game so I thought, hey, I'll just get season tickets and be assured of good seats. Guess what? I'm going to be gone to Cancun for the Lady Vols vs Lady Dores game! How's that for proper prior planning? NOT! Anyway I'll be selling my tickets (4) to some lucky Lady Vols fan I'm sure. Lotus and I went in together to get these tickets and since they are on bleachers we decided that in order to have enough room we would just get four tickets. Now we can take people if we want or we can just spread out. Last night was a blast. Theda went with me and Roy was going to go but I couldn't get him awake. About midway through the game here pops this person down beside me, it's Roy and he found me. Seems once he got to the gym, he asked the doorman about the game, unbeknownst to him it was a friend he golfed with. He told about me & my tickets and Andy pointed him in the right direction and he found me. What are the chances? We all had fun.
Theda and I were talking about the RV last night on the way to the game. She has never said a whole lot about my idea except that she was proud for me and that she would like to join me somewhere on one of my trips. Well, last night she comes out with a "I really think you need to go with a Class A!" What? Where did that come from? I said, "and why do you think I need a Class A?" She said I think they would be safer. I said, "what else?" She said, "well, with your shoulder the way it is, I don't think you are going to be able to do all that is required of setting up a 5'er!" Anyway the discussion went back and forth for a while and now I'm thinking, 'is she right?, should I explore that a little more?' I'll probably change my mind a million times before the big day. She does have me thinking. That's what I need, someone to keep reminding me and posing questions to me, make me think things through. You see, Theda is not one for talking much but is one for when she does speak, one should listen. The is a sly ole bird!
I'm pretty pumped about Saturday. Not only is it the SEC championships but I am meeting some women RV'ers for lunch. We are going to plan a get together (gtg) for some of the ladies around this area so that we can get together and exchange information and stories about the RV'ing lifestyle. I am very excited about that and I'll let you know more about it after Saturday. Oh, and we are supposed to scope out some camp grounds (cg) places where we can have the gtg and people can bring their rigs if they want. How about that, I'm already talking about rigs. Ooooh, I get so excited about this. More later.
I was about to forgeth DWTS, can you believe who won it? I love Helio's energy and yes, he could dance well but I thought Mel was the better of the two. OMG, I am so glad that Marie went out. If she had won, it probably would have been the end of DWTS. I like Marie and all and I know her fan base is huge but she is no dancer. Anyway, it's okay I just wished a women had won, we have had too many men win it and men don't have as many steps to learn as the women. I love this show! Now I can't wait for 24 and I hope the writers strike hasn't delayed that show.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2008
I'm just a little bit down today. You see I have these YaYa's. Four of us girls, Missi, Theda, Becky and me. We started calling ourselves YaYa's after we went to watch the movie of the same name. We do a lot of things together and we even have nicknames. Theda, a.k.a Law Dog, moved from Nashville to a place about 1.5 hours away. We try to get together when she comes to town for dinner. Missi, a.k.a. Giggles, comes as do I, a.k.a. Queen. It seems that the last few times, Becky, a.k.a Lotus, is missing in action. Now that hurts my soul that we all can't be together so I just need to get over it and celebrate those of us who can be there. Guess it helped just writing it down. I just can't take care of everyone. I still love 'em. Tonight is when three of the YaYa's will be meeting for a delicious dinner. We will celebrate friendship.
We YaYa's have been to Las Vegas together and that was so much fun. Last trip we did Madame Trousouds wax museum. I highly recommend it. We had so much fun posing with the characters just like we were with them. One night we went to the VooDoo club atop Rio's. Here it is on the 52nd floor of the hotel and you can walk outside and see the best view of LV at night. OMG, it is awesome. I highly recommend it. Of course, I can't go anywhere without visiting Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. I live the life that being a Parrothead portrays. Soon, I'll be living that life. My first destination, after being with Taylor, is Key West. Ooh, can't wait. I also read that they are opening a new Margaritaville in AZ, have to put that on my list because I've done all the others.
Gotta watch DWTS tonight, grand finale!! Can't wait to see who wins.
We YaYa's have been to Las Vegas together and that was so much fun. Last trip we did Madame Trousouds wax museum. I highly recommend it. We had so much fun posing with the characters just like we were with them. One night we went to the VooDoo club atop Rio's. Here it is on the 52nd floor of the hotel and you can walk outside and see the best view of LV at night. OMG, it is awesome. I highly recommend it. Of course, I can't go anywhere without visiting Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. I live the life that being a Parrothead portrays. Soon, I'll be living that life. My first destination, after being with Taylor, is Key West. Ooh, can't wait. I also read that they are opening a new Margaritaville in AZ, have to put that on my list because I've done all the others.
Gotta watch DWTS tonight, grand finale!! Can't wait to see who wins.
Monday, November 26, 2007
I started out on RV research about two years ago. I made a list of things I want to remember about what I definitely want on an RV. If I post it here, I won't lose it, hopefully. I also have put some brands I may be interested in.
RV Need/Want list
Room to access refer in the RV when slides are in
Table & chairs
Temp/Compass gauge in cockpit
Navagational
Rear Camera
WD ready
Ceiling fan in bed room (?)
Good insulation in roof & bottom
Generator ready
Electric Awning
Queen Bed/pillow top (real size queen) King bed changed into queen
Prefer Central AC/Heat
Electric rear jacks
Tankless water heater (?)
Desk area
Large picture window either back/side
Rear living room/center kitchen (refrig facing entry door)
Inverter
2 slides-not on awning side-1 living room & 1 BR
4-seasons/full timers-in no particular order
Americanarv
Alfa
Wyoming
Excel
Holiday Rambler
Grand Junction
Jayco Designer
I'm sure this list will change as I continue my quest. As I read the forums, one can learn a lot on these forums, I find out which brands have more trouble and which have poor customer service.
You see, I started 0ut wanting a Motor Home (MH) which is a class A. Now I have decided since I am going to be full timing, I need a truck and a fifth wheel (5'er). There just seems to be so much more liveable space and also storage space.
I'm luck, I live in TN so I won't have to change my state residence and my family & friends live here. I will have to decide who is dependable enough to forward my mail to me. Then there are things I really cannot part with. Those things will have to be stored so look out Jonathan is all I can say. I have pared down considerably already so I don't think that is going to become a big deal.
Sometimes I just want to yell, "why can't we all just get along?" I say that because yesterday I was reading my new Motorhome magazine http://www.motorhomemagazine.com/ . Someone had written last month to say that MH were hogs and if they wanted to get out in the open and away from it all, why do they pull their big rigs into a campground and you never see the people, just the loud noise of the generator and the blue glow of the TV, I took the liberty of paraphrasing. Well, there were two great responses in this months mag. that said it all. It put those people in their place, I thought. I hate that "it" happens in this RVing community too. Don't know why I am so shocked.
Did you watch Dancing with the Stars DWTS? OMG, that was horrible. Hope M & M get it but I'm afraid that might not happen. And bless Marie's heart, I know what she was going for with the doll thing, but it just didn't work.
RV Need/Want list
Room to access refer in the RV when slides are in
Table & chairs
Temp/Compass gauge in cockpit
Navagational
Rear Camera
WD ready
Ceiling fan in bed room (?)
Good insulation in roof & bottom
Generator ready
Electric Awning
Queen Bed/pillow top (real size queen) King bed changed into queen
Prefer Central AC/Heat
Electric rear jacks
Tankless water heater (?)
Desk area
Large picture window either back/side
Rear living room/center kitchen (refrig facing entry door)
Inverter
2 slides-not on awning side-1 living room & 1 BR
4-seasons/full timers-in no particular order
Americanarv
Alfa
Wyoming
Excel
Holiday Rambler
Grand Junction
Jayco Designer
I'm sure this list will change as I continue my quest. As I read the forums, one can learn a lot on these forums, I find out which brands have more trouble and which have poor customer service.
You see, I started 0ut wanting a Motor Home (MH) which is a class A. Now I have decided since I am going to be full timing, I need a truck and a fifth wheel (5'er). There just seems to be so much more liveable space and also storage space.
I'm luck, I live in TN so I won't have to change my state residence and my family & friends live here. I will have to decide who is dependable enough to forward my mail to me. Then there are things I really cannot part with. Those things will have to be stored so look out Jonathan is all I can say. I have pared down considerably already so I don't think that is going to become a big deal.
Sometimes I just want to yell, "why can't we all just get along?" I say that because yesterday I was reading my new Motorhome magazine http://www.motorhomemagazine.com/ . Someone had written last month to say that MH were hogs and if they wanted to get out in the open and away from it all, why do they pull their big rigs into a campground and you never see the people, just the loud noise of the generator and the blue glow of the TV, I took the liberty of paraphrasing. Well, there were two great responses in this months mag. that said it all. It put those people in their place, I thought. I hate that "it" happens in this RVing community too. Don't know why I am so shocked.
Did you watch Dancing with the Stars DWTS? OMG, that was horrible. Hope M & M get it but I'm afraid that might not happen. And bless Marie's heart, I know what she was going for with the doll thing, but it just didn't work.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Today was such a ho hum day. It was cloudy when I got up to go get my oil changed. By the time I did that and ran to Wally world, it had begun to spit rain a little. So a couple of more stops and I came back home to cheer on our Titans. Well, as we all know, our Titans needed more than cheering on. They sucked!! Hate to write them off this year but maybe next year will be our year. It is raining so hard. It's cold and it's just a good day to stay inside and veg. Gosh, I seem to enjoy doing that a lot.
Read some posts on the women's RV forum and it is just so refreshing to know there are people out there who are thinking of doing and are doing the same thing I am planning on doing. Even if you don't plan on doing this, this forum is a good place to go and I have it linked on my blog.
If you couldn't tell, I figured out the "lost" post from Friday so now I have two posts on there for that day. It will help remind me of my first mistakes. Hey speaking of that, do you know how to think of mistakes? Well, we have all seen movies so if you think of a mistake in this movie context, a mistake is simply a mis-take and a chance for us to do over. How about that! I heard that many moons ago and I always think of that.
I picked up a few gifts at Wally world. Only have a few more things to get. I'm stumped on my $10.00 family gift. See we all bring a $10.00 gift and then play dirty Santa until all the gifts are given out. Everyone tries to bring the gift that is most popular and gets "stolen" the most. Actually, if the gift is "stolen" more than three times it's "dead" and you have to take someone elses or open another one. It is a lot of fun and it prevents everyone from going broke trying to buy gifts for so many. It's all about family and fellowship anyway. Well, I haven't found the "perfect" gift yet and that's unusual for me. I'll keep looking. I have picked up a few items for our bingo games. It's good to get things at the end of the season for little or nothing and take them to Christmas. It may only cost .10 but it gets attention like it cost more. It's very fun.
I've started making kind of a list for the things I think I will need for my retirement days in my RV. My goodness, when you think of the things, it's overwhelming. I decided I need to get some knee pads that strap on with Velcro. Why you may ask! See my knees aren't that great and if (when) I have to get on my knees to hook/unhook things or when looking under the truck/RV then I figure it will be easier on me if I have knee pads. The other thing is the silicone bakeware. It's lightweight and can be used to pad other dishes. I've heard it's really good and it browns so evenly. I have already put this on my list for Christmas. Sounds like I plan on cooking a lot while RVing, that's a joke, I don't cook now. Well, very little and more so since Roy has come to live with me. I figure I'm going to need a GPS but I'm waiting on that, depending on what kind of truck I get to pull my 5'er it may have one already on it. I am going to have to get a laptop. I currently have a desktop that is about six years old, you know it's obsolete in computer years. I'm waiting as long as I can to get one but I need to get it before I quit work. Also, I'm going to need a new digital camera. Yes I have one and it was great. It's a 3.2 pixel and I think I will upgrade but I won't be in a hurry to do that. It takes great pix to go into my blog. I have been looking at the recliner lounge chairs at Camping World. They all look terrific but I'm not sure which of these best suits me. Some of them hit me in the wrong place in my back, just not that comfy. I'm sure I'll continue to add to this list.
Sedona got a new ball today. It is cute and has loops on it she can grip better. She likes to chase balls but she can't get a hold of the smooth ones. Her friend, Duchess, gave her one that is real soft and she loves it but it is getting ragged. Duchess is my best friend, Debbie's, poodle. She has come over here to stay and Sedona goes over there. They are so funny to watch. They are both timid & shy for about the first 10 minutes and then all heck breaks loose. They chase each other and play fight. It's really good for both of them because they are both only children and need some play time with others. Sometimes it hard for them to share.
Hope everyone had a safe holiday and is home from their travels. Can't wait to hear from Debbie. She, Randy and their neighbors went to Savannah Ga and had Thanksgiving dinner with Paula Deen, wellllll, maybe she didn't have dinner with Paula but she was at her house. Whew, I'm glad I straightened that out.
I hope Cindy's mother, Wilma, and her friends made it back to Oak Ridge. It was such a nasty travel day.
OH, did I tell you that Taylor and Jonathan put their tree up already. Guess they are getting ready for my visit on Dec 7. I'm going down for family day at Jonathan's work and can't wait. I'll write more about that later.
Hey folks, if you are reading, give me some feedback and give me some comments.
Read some posts on the women's RV forum and it is just so refreshing to know there are people out there who are thinking of doing and are doing the same thing I am planning on doing. Even if you don't plan on doing this, this forum is a good place to go and I have it linked on my blog.
If you couldn't tell, I figured out the "lost" post from Friday so now I have two posts on there for that day. It will help remind me of my first mistakes. Hey speaking of that, do you know how to think of mistakes? Well, we have all seen movies so if you think of a mistake in this movie context, a mistake is simply a mis-take and a chance for us to do over. How about that! I heard that many moons ago and I always think of that.
I picked up a few gifts at Wally world. Only have a few more things to get. I'm stumped on my $10.00 family gift. See we all bring a $10.00 gift and then play dirty Santa until all the gifts are given out. Everyone tries to bring the gift that is most popular and gets "stolen" the most. Actually, if the gift is "stolen" more than three times it's "dead" and you have to take someone elses or open another one. It is a lot of fun and it prevents everyone from going broke trying to buy gifts for so many. It's all about family and fellowship anyway. Well, I haven't found the "perfect" gift yet and that's unusual for me. I'll keep looking. I have picked up a few items for our bingo games. It's good to get things at the end of the season for little or nothing and take them to Christmas. It may only cost .10 but it gets attention like it cost more. It's very fun.
I've started making kind of a list for the things I think I will need for my retirement days in my RV. My goodness, when you think of the things, it's overwhelming. I decided I need to get some knee pads that strap on with Velcro. Why you may ask! See my knees aren't that great and if (when) I have to get on my knees to hook/unhook things or when looking under the truck/RV then I figure it will be easier on me if I have knee pads. The other thing is the silicone bakeware. It's lightweight and can be used to pad other dishes. I've heard it's really good and it browns so evenly. I have already put this on my list for Christmas. Sounds like I plan on cooking a lot while RVing, that's a joke, I don't cook now. Well, very little and more so since Roy has come to live with me. I figure I'm going to need a GPS but I'm waiting on that, depending on what kind of truck I get to pull my 5'er it may have one already on it. I am going to have to get a laptop. I currently have a desktop that is about six years old, you know it's obsolete in computer years. I'm waiting as long as I can to get one but I need to get it before I quit work. Also, I'm going to need a new digital camera. Yes I have one and it was great. It's a 3.2 pixel and I think I will upgrade but I won't be in a hurry to do that. It takes great pix to go into my blog. I have been looking at the recliner lounge chairs at Camping World. They all look terrific but I'm not sure which of these best suits me. Some of them hit me in the wrong place in my back, just not that comfy. I'm sure I'll continue to add to this list.
Sedona got a new ball today. It is cute and has loops on it she can grip better. She likes to chase balls but she can't get a hold of the smooth ones. Her friend, Duchess, gave her one that is real soft and she loves it but it is getting ragged. Duchess is my best friend, Debbie's, poodle. She has come over here to stay and Sedona goes over there. They are so funny to watch. They are both timid & shy for about the first 10 minutes and then all heck breaks loose. They chase each other and play fight. It's really good for both of them because they are both only children and need some play time with others. Sometimes it hard for them to share.
Hope everyone had a safe holiday and is home from their travels. Can't wait to hear from Debbie. She, Randy and their neighbors went to Savannah Ga and had Thanksgiving dinner with Paula Deen, wellllll, maybe she didn't have dinner with Paula but she was at her house. Whew, I'm glad I straightened that out.
I hope Cindy's mother, Wilma, and her friends made it back to Oak Ridge. It was such a nasty travel day.
OH, did I tell you that Taylor and Jonathan put their tree up already. Guess they are getting ready for my visit on Dec 7. I'm going down for family day at Jonathan's work and can't wait. I'll write more about that later.
Hey folks, if you are reading, give me some feedback and give me some comments.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
It was off to the Nashville Flea Market today. I had a few things to pick up and wanted to get there early. I was there by 7:15 a.m. which is pretty early for me. Roy was going to go with me but I couldn't get him awake. Cindy was going to go with me but couldn't at the last minute, so I went alone and that was just fine with me.
It was almost like going to an RV show. My oh my, the RV's that were there. Everything from the really large Class A's to the B. I saw two beautiful 5'ers. Wish I could have gone in them but the owners were not there, probably working.
It was such a beautiful day. A little chilly but not too bad. It was a great morning.
I came back to pick up Sedona. It was time for her to go to the vet for her yearly check-up. Three shots, nails clipped and a general checkup and $151.00 later, Sedona is a healthy little girl. She now weighs 6.2 lbs. I thought she might be up to 7 but what do they say, scales don't lie. Yeah, right! That's all done for another year.
Stopped by to see Cindy W, my friend. Her mother and some of her friends were in town and it had been this time last year since Sedona and I had seen her. Her mother, Wilma, had wanted to get Sedona's litter mate sister last year but decided she was too small. Now having seen the size Sedona grew to, she wishes she had gotten her. Oh well! It was good to see them.
I got home just in time to see the kickoff of the Tennessee Vs Kentucky game. OMG, it went into 5 OT's and TN pulled it out with a score of 52-50. We will go to the SEC championship game next weekend with LSU. Hope it will be a good game and we don't get slaughtered. Guess Fat Phil will get to keep his job.
Talked to Jonathan this evening. He had a good Turkey day and when Taylor returned from visiting her Mom they put up their Christmas tree. He is such a good single parent. He is learning to expand his cooking expertise. He really is getting good with the Rachel Ray 30-minute meals. He has to do things quick because of the time constraints with swim practice, homework and general evening things. I can relate to him because I was a single parent too. I think he is far superior to me and for that I am thankful. He's my pride and joy. I'm proud of them.
That's about all to report for today. I'll visit with you tomorrow.
Oh, here is one I heard and I really like it: It's hard to listen if you already know everything! unknown
It was almost like going to an RV show. My oh my, the RV's that were there. Everything from the really large Class A's to the B. I saw two beautiful 5'ers. Wish I could have gone in them but the owners were not there, probably working.
I picked up Sedona a coat at the flea market. It is corduroy lined with fleece. It looks very good on her. I'm glad she now has something a little warmer. I'm looking for some reflectors to go on it so I can keep up with her in the dark. I'm sure I'll find something. I also picked up some little bones for treats. They are just perfect for Sedona.
I picked up a few Christmas presents.
It was such a beautiful day. A little chilly but not too bad. It was a great morning.
I came back to pick up Sedona. It was time for her to go to the vet for her yearly check-up. Three shots, nails clipped and a general checkup and $151.00 later, Sedona is a healthy little girl. She now weighs 6.2 lbs. I thought she might be up to 7 but what do they say, scales don't lie. Yeah, right! That's all done for another year.
Stopped by to see Cindy W, my friend. Her mother and some of her friends were in town and it had been this time last year since Sedona and I had seen her. Her mother, Wilma, had wanted to get Sedona's litter mate sister last year but decided she was too small. Now having seen the size Sedona grew to, she wishes she had gotten her. Oh well! It was good to see them.
I got home just in time to see the kickoff of the Tennessee Vs Kentucky game. OMG, it went into 5 OT's and TN pulled it out with a score of 52-50. We will go to the SEC championship game next weekend with LSU. Hope it will be a good game and we don't get slaughtered. Guess Fat Phil will get to keep his job.
Talked to Jonathan this evening. He had a good Turkey day and when Taylor returned from visiting her Mom they put up their Christmas tree. He is such a good single parent. He is learning to expand his cooking expertise. He really is getting good with the Rachel Ray 30-minute meals. He has to do things quick because of the time constraints with swim practice, homework and general evening things. I can relate to him because I was a single parent too. I think he is far superior to me and for that I am thankful. He's my pride and joy. I'm proud of them.
That's about all to report for today. I'll visit with you tomorrow.
Oh, here is one I heard and I really like it: It's hard to listen if you already know everything! unknown
Friday, November 23, 2007
Friday, November 23, 2007 Black Friday
I don't know what happened to my post but it disappeared....
Short version
Went to Cracker Barrel for lunch yesterday but ended up being dinner. Wait was a while, checked other places but they were closed or ran out of food.
Had my hair highlighted & cut so am ready for the holidays.
Missed Sedona's vet appointment so had to reschedule for Saturday.
This is not fair but I don't feel like recreating my long post...c'ya tomorrow.
Short version
Went to Cracker Barrel for lunch yesterday but ended up being dinner. Wait was a while, checked other places but they were closed or ran out of food.
Had my hair highlighted & cut so am ready for the holidays.
Missed Sedona's vet appointment so had to reschedule for Saturday.
This is not fair but I don't feel like recreating my long post...c'ya tomorrow.
Friday, November 23, 2007 Black Friday
Well, ended up with plan B yesterday, what was plan B? Cracker Barrel. Roy and I went there around 2:00. The hostess said it would be about 2.5 hours wait time. Okay, we leave and try Cousers, it was closed, then we go to White Trash, closed, okay, one more place, Arnolds; yep, closed. Let's try Vittles in Brentwood, at last it's opened, we go in and they won't serve us even though the sign said closed at 4:00 they ran out of food about 3:00. Okay back to Cracker Barrel, oops, they have already called our name. Go to the front and they seat us immediately. The food was great and the deal was, turkey, ham, stuffing, gravy, sweet potato casserole or mashed potatoes, drink and pie for $8.99. Great deal and more than enough to eat. Both of us asked for the pie to go, 1 pecan and 1 chocolate pecan. Guess I don't have to tell you the mine was the chocolate pecan, anything chocolate!
Watched a great movie last night...Notebook with James Garner and Gina Rowlands, what a love story and I highly recommend watching it but be sure to have plenty of hankies. ++++
Today I had a bunch of things to get done but that did not include shopping. I hate to shop. I had my hair appointment for a cut and highlight. It looks good and I'm ready for the holidays. I didn't make it for Sedona's vet appointment so we rescheduled for Saturday. Needed to get my oil changed but guess what, didn't do it. Gosh, I'm such a slug. I enjoy my days off and don't want anything to interfer but there are things that need to be done.
Tomorrow Roy, Cindy (friend) and I are headed to the Nashville Flea Market. Have a few things to pick up so will have to fight the crowd. We are going to head out early to beat most of the crowd. I enjoy going a few times a year. Talking about RV's this is the place to see them. All those folks who go on the circuit travel well. Big rigs.
Read a few new posts on the women's forum today. Seems like Margie and I will get getting a group together in the Nashville area of women RV'ers to discuss issues and have a good time. Exchange stories, listen and dream, it should be lots of fun. I look forward to that.
One lady posted her accomplishments of backing, dumping and refilling water for the first time. We were all excited for her. I can relate because I will be nervous the first time (few times) I do those things. It's nice to have folks celebrate with you.
Watched a great movie last night...Notebook with James Garner and Gina Rowlands, what a love story and I highly recommend watching it but be sure to have plenty of hankies. ++++
Today I had a bunch of things to get done but that did not include shopping. I hate to shop. I had my hair appointment for a cut and highlight. It looks good and I'm ready for the holidays. I didn't make it for Sedona's vet appointment so we rescheduled for Saturday. Needed to get my oil changed but guess what, didn't do it. Gosh, I'm such a slug. I enjoy my days off and don't want anything to interfer but there are things that need to be done.
Tomorrow Roy, Cindy (friend) and I are headed to the Nashville Flea Market. Have a few things to pick up so will have to fight the crowd. We are going to head out early to beat most of the crowd. I enjoy going a few times a year. Talking about RV's this is the place to see them. All those folks who go on the circuit travel well. Big rigs.
Read a few new posts on the women's forum today. Seems like Margie and I will get getting a group together in the Nashville area of women RV'ers to discuss issues and have a good time. Exchange stories, listen and dream, it should be lots of fun. I look forward to that.
One lady posted her accomplishments of backing, dumping and refilling water for the first time. We were all excited for her. I can relate because I will be nervous the first time (few times) I do those things. It's nice to have folks celebrate with you.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
What a dreary ole rainy day! But we need the rain and for that rain I am thankful. Speaking of thankful. What's for Thanksgiving? I had planned on going to one of beautiful state parks, Montgomery Bell, for one of their huge dinners but when I called they said they were booked. So I guess I'll have to go to plan "b" which I don't know what that is yet.
I have so much to be thankful for. My family, health, good friends, good job, nice place to live and life are all the things that most everyone can say they are thankful for. A little about my family:
As already established I am the baby of four, all girls. We had the best Mama and Daddy anyone could have. They established our values and morals and for that I am thankful. My two remaining sisters (1 died in a car wreck many years ago) have the big families. Shirley (oldest), you know she is going to love me for that, & Doug have two sons who are both married. Jimmy, Shirley's oldest, is married to Ann and they have two children, Mark & Jenny. Mark is married to Jess and they have a very cute little baby girl, Addy Beth and that makes me a great, great aunt. Ken is Shirley's baby boy who is married to Faith Ann and they have a very smart little boy, Samuel. Did I say he was a very smart little boy??
Wanda is my other sister and she & Don got started early and have four children. David is their eldest ( I used to babysit him, change his diapers and taught him to walk) and he is married to Jan. David has two children, Erika and Derek. Erika has two beautiful children (another great, great aunt,) plus she is a beauty herself. Derek is now in college, not married and oooh so good looking. Michael is Wanda's next son. Michael has a whole slew of kids. He and Teri have three; Don Michael, and twin girls, Michaela & Danielle. In addition Michael has helped to raise Teri's three sons, which makes them with six kids in their family. Teri's sons have helped make me another great, great, step-aunt. Then there is my only niece, Deborah and she is married to Mark. They have horses and cats. This is where our family meets for Christmas. Then the baby of this group is Charles. He and Rita have one son, Heath. Heath is a very active boy and can flip like crazy.
Whew! Brenda's (deceased) family consists of Darrell, Jr and his wife Rhonda. They have two sons-Corey and Logan. Corey is a very good ball player, be it football or baseball. Corey is a left handed pitcher in baseball and is quite good. We are hoping to see him in the major leagues one day. Logan is coming up and is enjoying his sports, he's a bit young to be showing talent but I guess if Darrell, Jr has anything to do with it, it won't be long. No kids here yet. Brenda's twin boys-Roy and Jerry follow. Jerry and Dana have two sons-Jacob & Joshua. Jacob is into racing 4-wheelers and though I have not seen him, they say he is very good. I'm sorry but I don't know Josh's interest just yet. Bet at his age, it's girls. Then there is Roy-Roy is single and right now is living with me. He works for the CSX RR and in order to work he had to relocate to Nashville so it makes sense for him to stay with me. (more on that later)
Then there is my family. I have one son, Jonathan and he has one daughter, Taylor and yes that makes me a Gran, not Grandmother but Gran and I really like that name. Taylor is a swimmer and she is on the swim team the Boomers. I'm sure when it comes time for "meets" you will get a report on my precious girl. That's my first destination when I get my RV, spend more time with Taylor. You see, they live about 9 hours from me so I don't get to see them much but that will change.
Our family doesn't get together on Thanksgiving-everybody goes their separate ways or has smaller family meals. This usually is the "in-laws" holiday. Just wait until Christmas eve, all 52 of us get together in one house. What fun!
I told you this little more history to understand how much I have to be thankful for, beginning to see??
Well, I was going to tell you about my friends next because they are very important to me but you know what, I'm going to wait. I'll dedicate an entire post to my friends one day.
Have a blessed day tomorrow and if you are travelling, stay safe and buckle up!
I have so much to be thankful for. My family, health, good friends, good job, nice place to live and life are all the things that most everyone can say they are thankful for. A little about my family:
As already established I am the baby of four, all girls. We had the best Mama and Daddy anyone could have. They established our values and morals and for that I am thankful. My two remaining sisters (1 died in a car wreck many years ago) have the big families. Shirley (oldest), you know she is going to love me for that, & Doug have two sons who are both married. Jimmy, Shirley's oldest, is married to Ann and they have two children, Mark & Jenny. Mark is married to Jess and they have a very cute little baby girl, Addy Beth and that makes me a great, great aunt. Ken is Shirley's baby boy who is married to Faith Ann and they have a very smart little boy, Samuel. Did I say he was a very smart little boy??
Wanda is my other sister and she & Don got started early and have four children. David is their eldest ( I used to babysit him, change his diapers and taught him to walk) and he is married to Jan. David has two children, Erika and Derek. Erika has two beautiful children (another great, great aunt,) plus she is a beauty herself. Derek is now in college, not married and oooh so good looking. Michael is Wanda's next son. Michael has a whole slew of kids. He and Teri have three; Don Michael, and twin girls, Michaela & Danielle. In addition Michael has helped to raise Teri's three sons, which makes them with six kids in their family. Teri's sons have helped make me another great, great, step-aunt. Then there is my only niece, Deborah and she is married to Mark. They have horses and cats. This is where our family meets for Christmas. Then the baby of this group is Charles. He and Rita have one son, Heath. Heath is a very active boy and can flip like crazy.
Whew! Brenda's (deceased) family consists of Darrell, Jr and his wife Rhonda. They have two sons-Corey and Logan. Corey is a very good ball player, be it football or baseball. Corey is a left handed pitcher in baseball and is quite good. We are hoping to see him in the major leagues one day. Logan is coming up and is enjoying his sports, he's a bit young to be showing talent but I guess if Darrell, Jr has anything to do with it, it won't be long. No kids here yet. Brenda's twin boys-Roy and Jerry follow. Jerry and Dana have two sons-Jacob & Joshua. Jacob is into racing 4-wheelers and though I have not seen him, they say he is very good. I'm sorry but I don't know Josh's interest just yet. Bet at his age, it's girls. Then there is Roy-Roy is single and right now is living with me. He works for the CSX RR and in order to work he had to relocate to Nashville so it makes sense for him to stay with me. (more on that later)
Then there is my family. I have one son, Jonathan and he has one daughter, Taylor and yes that makes me a Gran, not Grandmother but Gran and I really like that name. Taylor is a swimmer and she is on the swim team the Boomers. I'm sure when it comes time for "meets" you will get a report on my precious girl. That's my first destination when I get my RV, spend more time with Taylor. You see, they live about 9 hours from me so I don't get to see them much but that will change.
Our family doesn't get together on Thanksgiving-everybody goes their separate ways or has smaller family meals. This usually is the "in-laws" holiday. Just wait until Christmas eve, all 52 of us get together in one house. What fun!
I told you this little more history to understand how much I have to be thankful for, beginning to see??
Well, I was going to tell you about my friends next because they are very important to me but you know what, I'm going to wait. I'll dedicate an entire post to my friends one day.
Have a blessed day tomorrow and if you are travelling, stay safe and buckle up!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Tuesday, November 20, 2007 1st blog
Well, hello world! I am going to attempt this blog "thing" as a practice session to my lifestyle change in about 18 months, give or take a few months.
You see, I am planning to retire from State Government, am going to sell my stick house, am going to sell everything and am going to hit the road in an RV to see the country.
I know, I know, that sounds exciting and scarey at the same time. I am in the process right now of conducting research on the best RV for me and my wonderful friend, Sedona. (more on Sedona later.) Do you realize how much information is out on the web regarding the RVing lifestyle? I am considered a wannabe right now and then I'll be a full timer. My goodness, there is a whole new language out there for us wannabes and I suppose now is as good a time as any to learn that new language. Oh, and don't forget there is a campground proticol. Just learned about that and now I have to think, Sunshine, you have always been coloring outside the lines, why do you think you want to start into something that has a proticol? Well, it sounds intriguing to me and I can do what I have to do, who knows, it may be fun...no, it will be fun.
You may be asking yourself at this point, what does Sunshine know about RVing? Well, you see when I was a kid; I was the baby of four girls. (more on that later too.) My Mama and Daddy always took us camping. It was a way for us to have a vacation. You see there was not much to do back then and there was little money, but my Daddy always found a way to take us camping...tent camping! Mama and Daddy would have the tent and us girls would be on bales of straw under a plastic cover and sleep outside next to the tent. Then we progressed to a pop-up camper (type of camper) where we could all sleep, we thought we had really arrived! After a few of my older sisters married and moved we did even better. Daddy was a wheeler/dealer. He found a camper that slid into the bed of the truck, okay buddy, we are really living now. This was just super to me but I had begun tiring of going camping, you see, I was becoming the age that it was not cool to be seen with parents, much less go "camping." I found other things to interest me.
BOYS!!
I married at an early age and my Mama and Daddy continued to camp. The one thing I have to tell you is that Mama and Daddy now have an Airstream travel trailer. Oh yes, why is it that when I am gone and they have grandchildren who can travel with them they get a camper that has all the bells & whistles on it? Of course, I know the answer to that question but for a while I couldn't figure it out. Ladies & gentlemen, it all has to do with "they could afford it now that the kids were gone!"
So it's time for me to embark on this journey. I hope you decide to go along on it with me. I am going to use this blog to post my thoughts, energies on research, frustrations, travels, photos and accomplishments. It will all come from the heart. My family & friends will probably know that I have started coloring outside the lines again but that's okay, it's why they love me.
More on Sedona, as promised. Sedona is my 1 year old Chorkie, part chichuaua & part yorkie.
She is so named because Sedona, AZ is my most favorite place (more on that later.) Once I saw my little puppy at 3 weeks, she had all this red and she was so happy then that I knew I had to name her Sedona. She was a year old in September and she has brought so much joy to my life and I have her trained to travel with me. She will be my co-pilot. She has her car seat so she can sit beside me and see out to all the wonderful places we will visit. I am sure I will mention Sedona more than once in my blog.
In my quest to become more knowledgable about RV's. I came across a school for RV'ers and wannabes. It is called the Life on Wheels and for more info you can go to http://www.rvlifeonwheels.com/ for detailed info. I chose to attend the one at Bowling Green, KY since it is close to home and I don't have an RV yet. I learned so much and met so many wonderful people. I so encourage each of you who is thinking of RVing, not necessarily full time, to attend a session. They offer these around the country.
RV'ers are great people. I am finding out they really want to help out the community. A super women's forum is http://www.womensrvforum.com/cfforum/index.cfm and it is sponsored by RV America. Another site is http://www.rvsmarter.net/ and has some interesting posts. Now, you may be thinking that this is going to be another blog with links to internet sites, well, it's not. See, I not putting these in here necessarily for you but for me. I want to remember and well, at my age, I'm not taking anything for granted. lol
Ooh, ooh, ooh, my HR person just came into my office and gave me some good news. It looks like I have accured enough leave to depart 1 month earlier than I had thought!!!!! Yippee, yippee. Now just say a prayer that I don't get sick. Reality! sooner than I thought!!??
You see, I am planning to retire from State Government, am going to sell my stick house, am going to sell everything and am going to hit the road in an RV to see the country.
I know, I know, that sounds exciting and scarey at the same time. I am in the process right now of conducting research on the best RV for me and my wonderful friend, Sedona. (more on Sedona later.) Do you realize how much information is out on the web regarding the RVing lifestyle? I am considered a wannabe right now and then I'll be a full timer. My goodness, there is a whole new language out there for us wannabes and I suppose now is as good a time as any to learn that new language. Oh, and don't forget there is a campground proticol. Just learned about that and now I have to think, Sunshine, you have always been coloring outside the lines, why do you think you want to start into something that has a proticol? Well, it sounds intriguing to me and I can do what I have to do, who knows, it may be fun...no, it will be fun.
You may be asking yourself at this point, what does Sunshine know about RVing? Well, you see when I was a kid; I was the baby of four girls. (more on that later too.) My Mama and Daddy always took us camping. It was a way for us to have a vacation. You see there was not much to do back then and there was little money, but my Daddy always found a way to take us camping...tent camping! Mama and Daddy would have the tent and us girls would be on bales of straw under a plastic cover and sleep outside next to the tent. Then we progressed to a pop-up camper (type of camper) where we could all sleep, we thought we had really arrived! After a few of my older sisters married and moved we did even better. Daddy was a wheeler/dealer. He found a camper that slid into the bed of the truck, okay buddy, we are really living now. This was just super to me but I had begun tiring of going camping, you see, I was becoming the age that it was not cool to be seen with parents, much less go "camping." I found other things to interest me.
BOYS!!
I married at an early age and my Mama and Daddy continued to camp. The one thing I have to tell you is that Mama and Daddy now have an Airstream travel trailer. Oh yes, why is it that when I am gone and they have grandchildren who can travel with them they get a camper that has all the bells & whistles on it? Of course, I know the answer to that question but for a while I couldn't figure it out. Ladies & gentlemen, it all has to do with "they could afford it now that the kids were gone!"
So it's time for me to embark on this journey. I hope you decide to go along on it with me. I am going to use this blog to post my thoughts, energies on research, frustrations, travels, photos and accomplishments. It will all come from the heart. My family & friends will probably know that I have started coloring outside the lines again but that's okay, it's why they love me.
More on Sedona, as promised. Sedona is my 1 year old Chorkie, part chichuaua & part yorkie.
She is so named because Sedona, AZ is my most favorite place (more on that later.) Once I saw my little puppy at 3 weeks, she had all this red and she was so happy then that I knew I had to name her Sedona. She was a year old in September and she has brought so much joy to my life and I have her trained to travel with me. She will be my co-pilot. She has her car seat so she can sit beside me and see out to all the wonderful places we will visit. I am sure I will mention Sedona more than once in my blog.In my quest to become more knowledgable about RV's. I came across a school for RV'ers and wannabes. It is called the Life on Wheels and for more info you can go to http://www.rvlifeonwheels.com/ for detailed info. I chose to attend the one at Bowling Green, KY since it is close to home and I don't have an RV yet. I learned so much and met so many wonderful people. I so encourage each of you who is thinking of RVing, not necessarily full time, to attend a session. They offer these around the country.
RV'ers are great people. I am finding out they really want to help out the community. A super women's forum is http://www.womensrvforum.com/cfforum/index.cfm and it is sponsored by RV America. Another site is http://www.rvsmarter.net/ and has some interesting posts. Now, you may be thinking that this is going to be another blog with links to internet sites, well, it's not. See, I not putting these in here necessarily for you but for me. I want to remember and well, at my age, I'm not taking anything for granted. lol
Ooh, ooh, ooh, my HR person just came into my office and gave me some good news. It looks like I have accured enough leave to depart 1 month earlier than I had thought!!!!! Yippee, yippee. Now just say a prayer that I don't get sick. Reality! sooner than I thought!!??
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