My name is Lenore, and my husband Rick and I are waiting on the threshold of a new life. We are dreaming of full timing by summer 2011, but are in kind of a sensitive place while we wait. My mother is very close to passing on, and we need to be with her in this stage of her life in whatever way we can. She could pass tomorrow, or in a long time, so we are kind of in limbo. But it feels like a very important transitional moment in all of our lives. We are all moving on to something better I hope.
I am a full time faculty member at a college, and also can't inform them that I am going to retire until I am sure of the time, but I also want to give them some time to prepare. It's a delicate dance. I can't tell any of my local friends and colleagues, because work will find out if I do. So the RV Dreams community is one place we can share our excitement while we wait.
Have others had similar momentous yet delicate transitions? Or had to contain your excitement from those you see all the time?
So, although this is a difficult time, our sites are set on our future, and we seem to have plenty of time to research, plan and prepare. We are shopping for a truck, an RV, a foldable canoe, and planning yard and estate sales to get rid of stuff and reading everything we can so that we have a clue of what we're doing when we can finally take action.
Howard and Linda and other RV Dreams Family Members: this website has been SO helpful. I am so touched by everyone's stories and how helpful everyone is. I often get all teary when I visit the forums and the journals. I love to see people pursuing their dreams, and am happy to join the community.
We live in a suburb of Chicago and I CAN'T WAIT to get out!
With warmth and gratitude,
Lenore
(Dreaming of a GMC 350 Dually Diesel and a DRV Mobile Suite)
Ckerr said
11:49 AM Aug 15, 2010
Welcome Lenore!
I agree, it's nice to be able to share our excitement here on this Forum. Not to mention all the very helpful information/insights no matter where you are in the journey.
We too hope to go full time sometime early in 2011. We promised my niece she could stay with us for the month of November while she does her final rotation for her respiratory therapy degree here in Austin or I think we would hit the road today!
In the meantime we are working on slowing emptying the house. I just loaded a pile of books into the truck to take the Half Price Bookstore to sell. It's only a small dent as I only grabbed the ones that it was easy to part with... That's our plan right now, get rid of all the easy stuff we can. Deal with the hard stuff when we must!
Terry and Jo said
11:55 AM Aug 15, 2010
Lenore,
Welcome to the forums. If you've been "lurking" for a while, you know this to be a friendly and helpful place, full of knowledgeable folks.
With your situation, this looks like a good time to research everything related to the RV's. However, a caution from me is needed. Don't decide on your truck until you have a good idea of the weight requirements that your fifth wheel will require. Some of the DRV's are pretty heavy and you don't want to overload your truck's capabilities.
As for the Mobile Suites, I have to say it is probably a good choice if you are going to be full-timing. Mobile Suites was our choice. If you happen to be considering used ones, check out a website called "Rolling Retreats" out of Elk City, Oklahoma. Alicia at that location buys DRV models at auction that have been repossessed. Their units look as good as the pictures depict.
Feel free to ask questions on the forums, or you can "private message" different folks.
Terry
K & E said
05:40 PM Aug 15, 2010
We began fulltiming on May 1, 2010. My mom is not ill, but she is a widow and has relied on me heavily for many years. I was really torn about leaving, but I have a brother in the area and felt it was time for mom to rely on him. It's not that he wasn't willing. It's just that I'm the oldest and a daughter so she always called me. She has adjusted just fine.
I also could not say anything at my work. I worked with a very nasty gossip. I couldn't risk her knowing anything about my life. This forum helped me tremendously. I, too, often cried when I read some of the stories. It's just an emotional time as you prepare for this next chapter in your life.
Use this time to purge as much as you can. You'll be so glad you did when the time to leave gets closer. Our biggest hurdle was selling our house. There were times I thought it would never happen. But, in the end it did and the timing was perfect.
I hope things with your mom work out for the best. Dreaming and researching was fun, so enjoy that part of the journey for now!
Jim01 said
06:37 PM Aug 15, 2010
Welcome Lenore,
Many of us have had parents that needed our help and that has delayed our dream.
There were times when we thought we would never be able to full-time, but before we knew it, we were on the road and enjoying the lifestyle.
Good luck with your plans, and if you have questions, be sure to ask as the folks here are super friendly and will do their best to help. Also, I'd like to remind everyone that on this forum, there are no "dumb" questions, so don't hesitate to ask.
We all had to start learning sometime.
Good Luck,
Jim
Ivey said
08:24 PM Aug 15, 2010
Welcome Lenore
We, like you plan to hit the road late spring or early summer 2011. We are in the purging stage and the researching stage too. We already have our tow vehicle and have looked at so many 5th wheels my eyes are crossed. It will all work out and before you know it we will all be meeting down the road somewhere.
Ivey
Happytrails said
09:48 PM Aug 15, 2010
We actually began full-timing twice before we actually began this wonderful lifestyle. Both times we had to cancel and go back to the sticks-n-bricks. The first time it was due to family responsibilities and the second due to the rotten housing market that kept us in limbo. Third time was charm.
I was a retired teacher from the state of Georgia and teaching in a private school so I didn't feel I had to hide my intentions but Mike was in management and couldn't tell anybody what we were planning. This isn't always easy in a small town.
So glad you decided to jump in here on the RV Dreams forum. There are so many folks here with various stories you will find it very comfortable.
I am so sorry to hear about your mother. I know it is difficult to loose a parent (I've lost both of mine). I hope she is comfortable and in no pain.
Good luck to you as you begin your plans....its a great lifestyle and one worth working toward.
Melstar said
11:09 PM Aug 15, 2010
Hi Lenore, I'm a "wannabe" too! You are a girl after my own heart.....DRV Mobile Suite!!!
I haven't found another RV (it's weird to call that an RV....it's a Suite!) that I like better. I took Terry's advice some time ago...and went to Rolling Retreats website...I've even talked with Alicia on the phone and I think when the time comes we'll probably take a trip to Oklahoma! They even deliver if you don't have your tow vehicle yet.
Like you, can't say too much to too many people....very involved here....we don't live or work in the city....so our homesite is quiet and peaceful...we just want to see the country! I'm doing all of the research and share with my husband.....we talk, and dream and plan.
In the meantime, we may buy a small 5th wheel and take extended trips to make sure we want the lifestyle.
This forum is awesome....I'm here all the time reading and dreaming!
UPDATE SINCE AUGUST 2010: We did purchase a nice "gently used" 5th wheel to take on the road to explore the possibility of this full time lifestyle". Acquired the 5er in Oct. Have been on 1 weekend trip and getting ready for a month-long trip to Florida in early spring.
Melanie
-- Edited by Melstar on Wednesday 2nd of February 2011 12:07:16 PM
Jake62 said
07:55 AM Aug 16, 2010
O.K., I confess, another Wanna-Bee here! Although my wife & I camped/RVed with our kids when they were younger in the past, and owned an RV, we have never "full-timed." My wife retires as a school teacher May 2011 and, although I'm eligible to retire now from federal law enforcement/intelligence, waiting for our son to graduate college in 2012 till we "really" get serious. I thoroughly enjoy the "forum" on this site for all its insightful suggestions regarding RVs, technical issues, camp grounds, States/Localities visited, etc. I've recently followed a few journals of individuals, but I really enjoy those who travel and give their stories of where they've been/what there doing and problems/issues they've encountered regarding the RV life. I don't enjoy as much reading journals of individuals who "workamp" for 3-4 months in one place and talk about their daily lives, just like the rest of us. Heck, I'm workamping now, just in my stix'n-brix! That's why you have an RV ... to see the country and share your experiences. Hoping to catch-up with some of you in a few years.
-- Edited by Jake62 on Monday 16th of August 2010 09:26:47 AM
jb said
06:14 PM Aug 16, 2010
Welcome Lenore,
We are also in the transition phase and on approximately the same timeline. I am ready to go now but the smart thing in our situation is to wait another 10-12 months. In the past two months, I have really tried to focus on the people at my work that I enjoy and the parts of my job I enjoy and realize that these are the last times I will ever do the good things. That seems to make the things I don't enjoy go by faster. I set up our blog page and we are working on preping the rig for full time.
Trying to focus on the now so the future will come sooner. You are doing the right thing with your mom. You will never get that time back and you don't want to start a new life with regrets or guilt.
Good luck and hope to see you on the road soon.
-- Edited by jb on Wednesday 18th of August 2010 05:22:26 AM
Country Dancer said
05:12 AM Aug 17, 2010
Thanks everyone for the warm welcome and encouragement. It helps to read about how other people waited or are waiting. I read somewhere that patience was a full-timers greatest virtue.
I'm also thrilled to meet all the other 2011 class members! I hope our paths cross someday and we all get on the road we wish for soon.
phyllen said
09:49 AM Aug 17, 2010
Good to have you here Lenore.
We started fulltiming in February. I can relate to the issues with your Mother. We were called back to Louisiana three times when we were told Leonard's mother was near the end or we were needed to help take care of her. We ended up "camping" in her side yard all but three weeks between February and middle of May. She has since gone into a nursing home.
My own mother in NJ is not in the best of health either, although better than Len's mom.
It is a very tough decision to leave parents who are aged. However, we realized while in Louisiana providing 24 hour care to his mother we were giving up our lives. There was also the issue of Len having to lift her many, many times a day and being told he was going to end up in a wheelchair himself if it continued. As much as it seems selfish to say, we felt we were sitting around waiting for her to die so we could get on with our lives. We did not want to feel that way so left in May.
Actually she is doing better now in the home. The family was doing EVERYTHING for her. At the nursing home she has to do some things for herself. We were feeing her. She can feed herself now. We were even wiping her butt. Guess what - now she can do that.
Do we like knowing she is in a home? No, but as I said some decisions are hard. BTW, Len flew down to see her last weekend and she is adjusting well.
So Lenore, continue to enjoy the time you have with your Mom but still value that sense of excitement and anticipation of days to come! Good luck.
NurseJessica said
04:39 PM Aug 21, 2010
Hi Lenore,
Just wanted to say ... keep your dreams in mind! I feel for you!!!!! Hope your mom's journey is peacefull, and that your road will soon have your RV on it - you & Rick in it - screaming the whole way "WE DID IT!!! WE'RE FULL-TIMERS!!!"
My fiance Chris and I are on a 5 year plan (ugh)- but starting to clean out allready. It's realy nice getting rid of all the things I haven't even seen in years ... I keep saying 'where did that come from?' Therapeutic actually!
Anyway - I'm new here too (thanks for the welcome!) and I can't believe how wonderful all the people here are! Good luck to you!
rwarner22 said
07:47 PM Aug 21, 2010
Welcome Lenore and we wish you well pursuing your dream. We didn't have the same kind of a situation that you did but we all have had to be patient at times to get to the objective. I think you are on the right track by checking into this forum. We did and it was a BIG help before we started fulltiming in May 2009.
Country Dancer said
05:54 AM Aug 24, 2010
I can't believe how many of us are also eagerly waiting to be on the road! Is there going to be a mass exodus of all the sticks and bricks in the next few years? Is there going to be a traffic jam by the time we all get our motors running?
I know there's room for all of, and I really can't wait to meet you!
Yesterday we went to the DRV factory, and we are "this" close to picking one out. Will probably order it in January. They've changed some of the interior features and the outside paint job, all for the better I think.
Every day gets a little closer. Yard sale in two weeks.
Lenore and Rick
Lenore
Froggi said
07:35 AM Aug 24, 2010
I think everyone has some type of waiting story. LOL! For me it was selling my house...twice! Yup, sold it and all my furniture and most of my stuff. Then the seller backed out two weeks before closing. The summer passed and I found a job (I was widowed) and figured the house wasn't meant to sell and I took it off the market and bought all new stuff...LOL!
Fast forward 6 months and I found myself putting it back on the market...another 7 months and it was sold and I finally hit the road...albeit in a very different mode and mood from the first time.
I haven't looked back...the last 3 years (this October) have been amazing including meeting my now husband while in Gillette, WY for an Escapade 2+ years ago.
Hang tough....if you want it, it will happen....eventually!
Dreamers said
07:47 AM Aug 24, 2010
Welcome all of you newcomers! This is a good informative forum. But like many of you, we too are dreamers and not fulltimers.
I can relate to not being able to say anything at work. I still work and was planning to continue to do until the S&B sales so I can share nothing of this dream with my co-workers. Also, the S&B has been on the market for 5 1/2 months. This patience thing is not setting well with me.
We, like some of you, have purged the house and after 5 months of purging w have literally sold all of or furniture but 3 pieces and are actually living in the RV. Have been there since June 10th. I love it. Now, we keep crunching numbers and wonder if we can just prepare to hit the road, with the house sitting there on the market. One day we think we can and the next day we consider it a very foolish idea.
So, hope this helps some of you out there who are also waiting. I too need help.
See you on the road, someday.
Judy
-- Edited by Dreamers on Tuesday 24th of August 2010 07:47:37 AM
Country Dancer said
06:59 AM Nov 29, 2010
Hi all,
Just an update on our status. My mom passed away in Sept. She's free now and we are all relieved though sad about her passing, especially how hard it seemed to be.
Anyway, shortly afterward I let my job know I was retiring in May. So things are moving along. We are getting the house ready to put on the market in early spring, and getting rid of stuff. Two yard sales, and TONS more of things to find homes for. Giving away things, selling things, all that. Anyone know where to sell books online?
Plan on ordering our DRV 38TKSB/RSB3 (combo) and a 3500 GMC at about the same time the house goes on the market. Then keeping our fingers crossed that the house sells by summer. We hope to be one the road by July! Heading for South Dakota first thing to get registered, license, new address. Then who knows!
Happy Holiday season to everyone,
Lenore, Rick and golden retriever Kona.
dewwood said
08:57 AM Nov 29, 2010
Glad to hear that your plans are set in motion. It will be an exciting, emotional, exhilarating and exhausting time for you. Enjoy!
JLitton65 said
10:03 AM Nov 29, 2010
Wannabe Soon wrote:
golden retriever Kona.
We have a dog named Kona also.
heyduke said
01:23 PM Nov 29, 2010
amazon is your best bet for books or find a local reseller like we have here called Half riced Books...
hard to get rid of books...
we too are ready to hit the road and it would be nice if someone would buy our house... :)
mktobob said
03:06 PM Nov 29, 2010
Hi Lenore, Great combo you have picked out for you tow vehicle and home on wheels! Best wishes for the speedy sale of your home.
Terry and Jo said
05:46 PM Nov 29, 2010
Lenore,
Sorry to hear about your mother. But, time stands still for no one.
Since you are considering the DRV's, have you been on either Suites Owners International Travel Club (SOITC) or Fifth Wheel Forums websites?
In the event you haven't, I've got some links for you. First of all, this link is to a pdf file about the GM 3500. It is a brochure of sorts. Look closely at the weight information because it is possible that the DRV with the 3500 may be overweight on Gross Combined Vehicular Weight.
Enjoy the researching, and you might want to consider NOT ordering the couch and recliners. Jo and I didn't find ours to be comfortable at all.
Terry
Elaine NB said
08:28 PM Nov 29, 2010
Hi Lenore and Rick, and welcome....my husband and I are also waiting on the threshold so I can relate to everything your saying and waiting for...we also had an aging parent for the last 15 years living here with us on our property. We had a little stix and bricks in the backyard for her. She used to tell us to go and travel, but I would not leave her..she was the dearest mom in law I could have ever asked for. She passed away last January at the ripe age of being 3 months short of her 95th birthday..and how I miss her. At that age you don't dare go away for any extended period of time.
Last march we hopped into our motorhome and took off for almost 8 weeks..headed down to NC, SC, TN and had a blast. Like you we are considering retiring, considering?? heck we are retiring...for the 2nd time...we like you have to contain our excitement as we have our own business and we do not want our Clients to know as of yet. We hope to be on the road by end of march 2011. DH retired back in 98, and I retired with him but where we were here for mom I felt we may as well be adding to the retirement funds so in came the business..
So I know and feel in my heart what you are going through, I've lived your emotions. Keep the spirits up and proceed to prepare to downsize. We are in the 'getting rid' of stuff mode..and its going very well..what is not going good is do we sell the house or do we keep the house..we do have a very large home...and have been discussing all of our options. We can only snowbird due to the fact that we live in Canada and do not want to lose our medical. But we can still fulltime south in the winter and back here for the summer months and either stay in the motorhome, at the cottage or here at the house. Our option choice this week lol and I laugh because we change our minds so much (its not always good to have so many options)...is to take the offices (2 storey) built directly onto our home, and make them into an apartment for ourselves and rent out the whole main house. It would cover expenses, maintenance and also provide extra income or investments.
You will find alot of fantastic information and support here on this site..I have been sucking up the info like a sponge. Its great to be able to learn from the experienced!!
Good luck with your plan, stay on track with it...and dream your dream..
Elaine NB said
08:31 PM Nov 29, 2010
Wannabe Soon wrote:
Hi all,
Just an update on our status. My mom passed away in Sept. She's free now and we are all relieved though sad about her passing, especially how hard it seemed to be.
Anyway, shortly afterward I let my job know I was retiring in May. So things are moving along. We are getting the house ready to put on the market in early spring, and getting rid of stuff. Two yard sales, and TONS more of things to find homes for. Giving away things, selling things, all that. Anyone know where to sell books online?
Plan on ordering our DRV 38TKSB/RSB3 (combo) and a 3500 GMC at about the same time the house goes on the market. Then keeping our fingers crossed that the house sells by summer. We hope to be one the road by July! Heading for South Dakota first thing to get registered, license, new address. Then who knows!
Happy Holiday season to everyone,
Lenore, Rick and golden retriever Kona.
Hi Lenore, guess I didn't read down far enough on the form..so sorry to hear of your mom's passing..its not easy for sure.
Good luck with your house sale, and retirement...and getting rid of the 'stuff' ~congrats on the rig and tow...how exciting for you!!! take care
Country Dancer said
08:40 AM Feb 2, 2011
Just wanted to update my post on this forum, and say that we ordered our new DRV last week, will probably have it by May 1. We put our house on the market, and hope to be on the road by July/August. We'll post now on the other forums since we wont be "wanna be soon" any more. Just "soon" I guess. Anyway, I don't know what name we'll be posting on, or what picture once we have a real RV instead of a toy. But we'll be around 'cause we love it here.
Rick & Lenore
2011 DRV custom 38RESB3 (in May)
2011 GMC Sierra 3500 Dually
Terry and Jo said
08:58 AM Feb 2, 2011
Well, congratulations are definitely in order! From how you posted earlier about the model of DRV you were interested in (38TKSB3/RSSB), I am presuming that you won't have the peninsula counter, but an island instead.
But, was that still your final choice? Jo and I kind of waffled just a little bit between a couple of different floorplans, but ended up with the Mobile Suites 38TKSB3. I'll now have to pay more attention as to whether you have been active posters over on SOITC's forums.
Good luck with everything.
Terry
BruceandTrisha said
12:31 PM Feb 4, 2011
Hi Lenore! How exciting to be preparing for this life change! We are right where you are - just a couple of steps ahead because we're already living full time in our RV. But, like you, I am still working full time and cannot reveal to my co-workers how close we are to being on the road full time. In the meantime, I'm doing all I can to organize everything related to my job - to document the details of the responsibilities I have - just as a means to keep moving forward towards our goal. We don't know for sure when it will happen, but we know it WILL happen.
No one needs to remind you how precious your time is with your Mom. You have a great acceptance and awareness of her expected transition. Just know, that all that is happening is perfectly designed and perfectly timed.
I'm thrilled for you and all that will unfold in this journey. Feel free to write me at tjb0921@gmail.com or call if you just want to talk and laugh and dream together. I'll send you my phone # if you email me - I would love to talk sometime.
So glad you found this forum - it's a great place to connect and learn and share with others who know what a treasure we have in living full time in our RV!
Trisha
-- Edited by BruceandTrisha on Friday 4th of February 2011 02:26:14 PM
BruceandTrisha said
12:34 PM Feb 4, 2011
Lenore, well duh! Things have moved right along for you as I learned reading the other posts. I was so moved by your initial post that I immediately wanted to write . . . and now learn that you are really really close! Congratulations! My offer still stands - write or call anytime!
Trisha
Racerguy said
01:53 PM Feb 4, 2011
Trisha,just a suggestion but I would delete your phone number and send it in a private message to her.Scumbags troll these forums looking for any bit of info on someone they may use to steal your identity .
BruceandTrisha said
02:28 PM Feb 4, 2011
George - thanks for the advice. I don't really worry about things like that, but then, I haven't been a victim of such.
Elaine NB said
07:58 PM Feb 4, 2011
Welcome :) this is my first post in a very long time...I too am in your 'delicate' circumstances....we have our own business..and while we downsized it significantly in Dec...not all of our clients know our plans...and yes I can't tell everyone because it could get back to a client..and of course I don't want them to know until I'm almost there...but I will provide them with ample notice...I just don't want them to panic at this stage...we are in the process of renovating our home...adding a small apartment for ourselves and renting out the main house..this way we keep our investment~have a base to come back to~and generate more income :)...to add to the retirement income...we hope to be on the road with all renos finished and business closed by end of summer this year...we do have our motor home and toad vehicle...we have been motor homing in the summer months for the last 10 years...actually we are now on our 5th rig :)...like you we had an aging parent to care for..so I wouldn't venture too far....she passed away in Jan. of 2010...so after raising 5 children to adulthood, and parenting the parents...its now our turn...good luck to you take one day at a time..start your downsizing now...getting rid of stuff you no longer need...and your turn will be here before you know it....take care and hugs to you!!!
Country Dancer said
08:07 AM Feb 14, 2011
Hi all,
Regarding our future rig: We actually ordered a hybrid of the DRV 38RSSB3 and the 38TKSB3, so we are getting an island, sort of triangular shaped, and the kitchen with a counter that extends out a little, (but not telescoping) and then a desk on the other side of the counter, with the entertainment center next to it. We opted out of the fireplace and will have storage there instead. So when we get it we'll see how it worked out.
And yes we are getting rid of stuff every day!
I've started creating a blog to share our journey, but I keep changing the name. Here is its current manifestation:
http://crosscountrydancing.blogspot.com
Lenore and Rick
Luvglass said
11:15 AM Feb 14, 2011
I'm going to guess that you will come to regret the fireplace decision. In all the people we have met that have one, we have never met anyone that didn't love them. They are such a nice source of a little warmth and ambiance on a cool evening.
good luck with your new rig,
Country Dancer said
07:26 AM Feb 15, 2011
Well you may be right Fred, about that fireplace. Its not too late to change our minds!
dreamjosie said
04:39 PM Feb 18, 2011
I second Fred's comment about our fireplace. Love, love, love the fireplace. That little added warmth on a chilly morning is so cozy. It even looks nice. And if you get the fireplace now before you move in, you won't even miss the storage. You can't miss what you never had :)
Country Dancer said
07:45 AM Mar 22, 2011
Just another update on our wannabe plans. We got an offer on our home, which has been on the market for a little over a month. It's not what we had hoped for, but I think that's the reality of the market right now. But it's not unacceptable. So we're keeping our fingers crossed for a closing on May 31, and to be on the road in June some time!
Pinon said
02:58 PM Mar 22, 2011
Yay! Good luck for an easy closing. Heidi
Cindy T said
05:00 PM Mar 22, 2011
Wow ! Your home has only been on the market for a month & you already have an offer - that's great!! I hope the process goes smoothly & you close exactly when you want to. I also think you might want to reconsider on the fireplace - it's really a cozy option to have and, I think, gives a "homey" feel.
Cindy T
-- Edited by Cindy T on Wednesday 23rd of March 2011 05:47:17 PM
Fluffykitty said
06:45 AM Mar 23, 2011
Welcome, we to are just starting to head in that direction. I think we get more excited each day...!
bonnie and clyde said
01:15 PM Mar 25, 2011
Welcome--I think a lot of us find we walk a tight rope between what we desire to do and what we feel we need to do. We would like to look into full-timing in 2012, but to keep my client base and earn what we can until SS in 9/12, I find I must look and act engaged if clients choose to work with me. If they knew where my heart is it could affect my profession, and their willingness to work with me. Keep the Faith-best with the sale of the house.
Steve C said
10:20 PM Mar 25, 2011
Just wanted to also encourage you to go with the fireplace. I found that in our Mobile Suites 38RESB4 that on most, if not all, cool mornings or nights the fireplace was all we needed to be comfortable. We had more than enough storage and took many clothes that we never wore. I really enjoyed having a washer and dryer also which allows you not to need as many clothes. "Less in more!!!" is what the RV life is truly about.
We had a Sea Eagle which I used and enjoyed; but this time out, I am considering a Point 65N Modular Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak. Both L.L. Bean and R.E.I. carry it. It is described as "...a revolutionary three-piece modular design unmatched in its versatility." It can be a one person (solo) by not using the center section. 13'8" tandem or 9'8" solo. I found the Sea Eagle a little tough to handle by myself unless I always had it deflated before and after use. The Point 65N is recommended for calm to light winds and for trips of a few hours duration. The "outdoors" Bean catalog shows it better than the website. The tandem costs $999 + shipping + additional shipping.
I had a F-450 which I really liked but am looking hard at the 2011 GMC or Chevy 3500 HD this time. In a recent independent test it really beat the 2011 F-350 when hauling an 18k load up and down mountains in Colorado. The tow numbers are up on the 2011 models. Engine breaking is far superior, according to the test, on the GM. Trailer Life had a review article on the Chevy 3500 HD and DRV Mobile Suites in December 2010. It can be obtained in PDF from DRV. I agree with Terry that you should look close at the weights. According to the article the GM's tow rating is 21,100 lb. The GVWR is 13k lb. The GCWR is 28,200 lb. Our Mobile Suite weigh around 18.5k lb wet. That is pushing the max on the GCWR. We also had Transfer Flow Auxiliary 98 gal tank which I recommend (but more weight). If I do that again I may be over the max in F-350 or GM 3500 HD.
Welcome to the forums. If you've been "lurking" for a while, you know this to be a friendly and helpful place, full of knowledgeable folks.
With your situation, this looks like a good time to research everything related to the RV's. However, a caution from me is needed. Don't decide on your truck until you have a good idea of the weight requirements that your fifth wheel will require. Some of the DRV's are pretty heavy and you don't want to overload your truck's capabilities.
As for the Mobile Suites, I have to say it is probably a good choice if you are going to be full-timing. Mobile Suites was our choice. If you happen to be considering used ones, check out a website called "Rolling Retreats" out of Elk City, Oklahoma. Alicia at that location buys DRV models at auction that have been repossessed. Their units look as good as the pictures depict.
Feel free to ask questions on the forums, or you can "private message" different folks.
Terry
I also could not say anything at my work. I worked with a very nasty gossip. I couldn't risk her knowing anything about my life. This forum helped me tremendously. I, too, often cried when I read some of the stories. It's just an emotional time as you prepare for this next chapter in your life.
Use this time to purge as much as you can. You'll be so glad you did when the time to leave gets closer. Our biggest hurdle was selling our house. There were times I thought it would never happen. But, in the end it did and the timing was perfect.
I hope things with your mom work out for the best. Dreaming and researching was fun, so enjoy that part of the journey for now!
Many of us have had parents that needed our help and that has delayed our dream.
There were times when we thought we would never be able to full-time, but before we knew it, we were on the road and enjoying the lifestyle.
Good luck with your plans, and if you have questions, be sure to ask as the folks here are super friendly and will do their best to help. Also, I'd like to remind everyone that on this forum, there are no "dumb" questions, so don't hesitate to ask.
We all had to start learning sometime.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Lenore,
I'm a "wannabe" too! You are a girl after my own heart.....DRV Mobile Suite!!!
I haven't found another RV (it's weird to call that an RV....it's a Suite!) that I like better. I took Terry's advice some time ago...and went to Rolling Retreats website...I've even talked with Alicia on the phone and I think when the time comes we'll probably take a trip to Oklahoma! They even deliver if you don't have your tow vehicle yet.
Like you, can't say too much to too many people....very involved here....we don't live or work in the city....so our homesite is quiet and peaceful...we just want to see the country! I'm doing all of the research and share with my husband.....we talk, and dream and plan.
In the meantime, we may buy a small 5th wheel and take extended trips to make sure we want the lifestyle.
This forum is awesome....I'm here all the time reading and dreaming!
UPDATE SINCE AUGUST 2010:
We did purchase a nice "gently used" 5th wheel to take on the road to explore the possibility of this full time lifestyle". Acquired the 5er in Oct. Have been on 1 weekend trip and getting ready for a month-long trip to Florida in early spring.
Melanie
-- Edited by Melstar on Wednesday 2nd of February 2011 12:07:16 PM
-- Edited by Jake62 on Monday 16th of August 2010 09:26:47 AM
We are also in the transition phase and on approximately the same timeline. I am ready to go now but the smart thing in our situation is to wait another 10-12 months. In the past two months, I have really tried to focus on the people at my work that I enjoy and the parts of my job I enjoy and realize that these are the last times I will ever do the good things. That seems to make the things I don't enjoy go by faster. I set up our blog page and we are working on preping the rig for full time.
Trying to focus on the now so the future will come sooner. You are doing the right thing with your mom. You will never get that time back and you don't want to start a new life with regrets or guilt.
Good luck and hope to see you on the road soon.
-- Edited by jb on Wednesday 18th of August 2010 05:22:26 AM
Just wanted to say ... keep your dreams in mind! I feel for you!!!!! Hope your mom's journey is peacefull, and that your road will soon have your RV on it - you & Rick in it - screaming the whole way "WE DID IT!!! WE'RE FULL-TIMERS!!!"
My fiance Chris and I are on a 5 year plan (ugh)- but starting to clean out allready. It's realy nice getting rid of all the things I haven't even seen in years ... I keep saying 'where did that come from?' Therapeutic actually!
Anyway - I'm new here too (thanks for the welcome!) and I can't believe how wonderful all the people here are! Good luck to you!
Fast forward 6 months and I found myself putting it back on the market...another 7 months and it was sold and I finally hit the road...albeit in a very different mode and mood from the first time.
I haven't looked back...the last 3 years (this October) have been amazing including meeting my now husband while in Gillette, WY for an Escapade 2+ years ago.
Hang tough....if you want it, it will happen....eventually!
I can relate to not being able to say anything at work. I still work and was planning to continue to do until the S&B sales so I can share nothing of this dream with my co-workers. Also, the S&B has been on the market for 5 1/2 months. This patience thing is not setting well with me.
We, like some of you, have purged the house and after 5 months of purging w have literally sold all of or furniture but 3 pieces and are actually living in the RV. Have been there since June 10th. I love it. Now, we keep crunching numbers and wonder if we can just prepare to hit the road, with the house sitting there on the market. One day we think we can and the next day we consider it a very foolish idea.
So, hope this helps some of you out there who are also waiting. I too need help.
See you on the road, someday.
Judy
-- Edited by Dreamers on Tuesday 24th of August 2010 07:47:37 AM
Great combo you have picked out for you tow vehicle and home on wheels! Best wishes for the speedy sale of your home.
Sorry to hear about your mother. But, time stands still for no one.
Since you are considering the DRV's, have you been on either Suites Owners International Travel Club (SOITC) or Fifth Wheel Forums websites?
In the event you haven't, I've got some links for you. First of all, this link is to a pdf file about the GM 3500. It is a brochure of sorts. Look closely at the weight information because it is possible that the DRV with the 3500 may be overweight on Gross Combined Vehicular Weight.
http://www.chevrolet.com/assets/pdf/en/overview/Silverado_HD_charts-rev091410.pdf
For the SOITC website, there is this link:
http://www.suitesowners.com/
And, for Fifth Wheel Forums, there is this one:
http://www.5thwheelforums.com
Enjoy the researching, and you might want to consider NOT ordering the couch and recliners. Jo and I didn't find ours to be comfortable at all.
Terry
But, was that still your final choice? Jo and I kind of waffled just a little bit between a couple of different floorplans, but ended up with the Mobile Suites 38TKSB3. I'll now have to pay more attention as to whether you have been active posters over on SOITC's forums.
Good luck with everything.
Terry
-- Edited by BruceandTrisha on Friday 4th of February 2011 02:26:14 PM
Heidi
Wow ! Your home has only been on the market for a month & you already have an offer - that's great!! I hope the process goes smoothly & you close exactly when you want to.
I also think you might want to reconsider on the fireplace - it's really a cozy option to have and, I think, gives a "homey" feel.
Cindy T
-- Edited by Cindy T on Wednesday 23rd of March 2011 05:47:17 PM
Welcome--I think a lot of us find we walk a tight rope between what we desire to do and what we feel we need to do. We would like to look into full-timing in 2012, but to keep my client base and earn what we can until SS in 9/12, I find I must look and act engaged if clients choose to work with me. If they knew where my heart is it could affect my profession, and their willingness to work with me. Keep the Faith-best with the sale of the house.
Just wanted to also encourage you to go with the fireplace. I found that in our Mobile Suites 38RESB4 that on most, if not all, cool mornings or nights the fireplace was all we needed to be comfortable. We had more than enough storage and took many clothes that we never wore. I really enjoyed having a washer and dryer also which allows you not to need as many clothes. "Less in more!!!" is what the RV life is truly about.
We had a Sea Eagle which I used and enjoyed; but this time out, I am considering a Point 65N Modular Sit-on-Top Tandem Kayak. Both L.L. Bean and R.E.I. carry it. It is described as "...a revolutionary three-piece modular design unmatched in its versatility." It can be a one person (solo) by not using the center section. 13'8" tandem or 9'8" solo. I found the Sea Eagle a little tough to handle by myself unless I always had it deflated before and after use. The Point 65N is recommended for calm to light winds and for trips of a few hours duration. The "outdoors" Bean catalog shows it better than the website. The tandem costs $999 + shipping + additional shipping.
I had a F-450 which I really liked but am looking hard at the 2011 GMC or Chevy 3500 HD this time. In a recent independent test it really beat the 2011 F-350 when hauling an 18k load up and down mountains in Colorado. The tow numbers are up on the 2011 models. Engine breaking is far superior, according to the test, on the GM. Trailer Life had a review article on the Chevy 3500 HD and DRV Mobile Suites in December 2010. It can be obtained in PDF from DRV. I agree with Terry that you should look close at the weights. According to the article the GM's tow rating is 21,100 lb. The GVWR is 13k lb. The GCWR is 28,200 lb. Our Mobile Suite weigh around 18.5k lb wet. That is pushing the max on the GCWR. We also had Transfer Flow Auxiliary 98 gal tank which I recommend (but more weight). If I do that again I may be over the max in F-350 or GM 3500 HD.