Every one has their opinions; especially when they have a higher paying job and all is going well. Some of the authors opinions may be of some use. But calling Social Security and Medicare Social programs blew me away. People work and pay along with their employer into the system to have these monies when they are older. Social programs are Welfare; Oh Human Resources now; and Medicaid. Taxes pay for them.
I absolutely feel sorry for these writers when they get older and their health or employment comes to an end. Then they will most likely cry the blues. Some should wake up and see the reality of life before the rug gets pulled out from under their feet.
There are some people in the RV world who escaped to seek out work elsewhere because the economy and employment in their neighbor hood went under. Some work to supplement their retirement and some like me who's health prevents them from even doing some of the household chores; much less hold down a steady employ.
Like I've always said from an old Indian proverb; Unless one walks a mile in the other persons' shoes; don't pass judgements! And that is directed toward negative and inflamatory writers and people who think that way.

All I can say is there are some sick people in this world. Really sick!

Another slanted, and inaccurate "news" story.

Not enough room here to point out all the half-truths, and far reaching conclusions. Here is just one:

The author said: "The ads are surreal. They sound like an invitation to summer camp, and not just the ones for Amazon jobs.”

Has she even read an Amazon ad? They are very clear about what to expect. Further, Amazon has orientations to be sure you know what you are facing.

They make no bones about it. It is fast,paced, hard work. You know that before you start. If you overestimate your physical skills,or just don't listen, that is not Amazon's fault.

Mark this one down as "opinion." It sure is not "news" although it is a "story."

The author would be better served to focus her energy and resources on the real migrant workers in this country and the problems there.

-- Edited by Dog Folks on Tuesday 2nd of September 2014 06:34:44 AM

While I agree with most of what has been stated by the forum participants, I wonder how many of those that started out in this lifestyle have stopped because they didn't really think out all the financial aspects they would encounter?  Those seem like they "might" be subject to the conditions stated in the article.

With regards to the article, it's too bad the author doesn't have my perspective of "Okies."  If they did, they might realize that the original "Okies" had a lot more gumption and spirit than what the author's use of the term seems to imply.

Terry

Zero experience living on the road, but I see sad examples all around me, of "stationary" people who have it every bit as bad as what the author described. We all know the type. The folks who seem constantly surprised by life, and spend their days as the statue, instead of the pigeon. The simple fact, as I see it, is that bad planning usually equals bad results. Pretty much a no-brainer, but I have fallen prey to it plenty of times, myself. Luckily, I learned one simple phrase that makes or breaks financial decisions for me. If I ever hear my mind whisper the phrase "I'll find a way to pay for it", I simply walk. Vehicle, house, hobby toy, etc. Nope, not gonna happen.
I can drive down the road in my town, and see falling apart single wides, with trash strewn all over the yard, and used tires holding down the tarps over the roof. Amazing how many of these places have ski boats, a thousand dollar stainless grill, or Cadillac Escalades on big shiny rims parked out front. People of that particular mindset are destined to live their lives that way, most often with sad outcomes. If they "hit the road", nothing will change, they will simply be mobile in their chaos, and lack of planning.
I hope that doesn't sound arrogant. It isn't mean to. I see places and people that live like that, and I wish them the best.
None of us have a crystal ball, but planning is one of the keys to success, what ever your definition of that might be.
My Wife and I are in our early 40's, in decent health. We will try to have every single base covered, before we sell this house, and hit the road.
What if I have a sudden heart attack, and die, on the other side of the country? What would my family do? We will come up with several plans. The truck engine detonates in the middle of nowhere? Working on that contingency as well.
Another financial collapse? Not depending on one skill only to get by is a huge plus.
All the precautions in the world can't avoid the unpredictable nature of life. Planning, and running scenarios ahead of time, can take care of most, in my experience.
My flight instructor once told me "There are three things that do you absolutely no good in an airplane. Air above you, runway behind you, and fuel in the truck"
That really seems to apply to life itself. I don't ever want to put my family in the position of those people the author spoke of!
Regards, Kyle