Posted by Ed Richmond on May 12, 1999 at 21:32:39:
        In Reply to: Solo RVing posted by Chris on May 12, 1999 at 18:36:25:
         I will be starting full-timing solo when I retire on June 17, 1999. I expect to met
         a lot of people on the road. I have joined one solo group--Escapees Solo
         BOF. I may join other solo groups if I see a need to. 
 

Posted by Cyndie on May 12, 1999 at 20:54:51:
        In Reply to: Solo RVing posted by Chris on May 12, 1999 at 18:36:25:
         I will also be soloing but will be with my two dogs and lots of books. I am also
         concerned about becoming a "hermit".

Driving
Posted by Dolores A on May 08, 1999 at 15:00:30:
         My husband retired recently and we are planning to sell our home, buy an RV,
         and see the country. Are there full-timer couples out there in which the wife
         does not share the driving? I would like to hear how that works out.
 

Posted by dorothy mowry on May 11, 1999 at 02:29:52:
        In Reply to: Driving posted by Dolores A on May 08, 1999 at 15:00:30:
         We've been on the road for almost 2 years and I haven't driven at all. Our goal
         is for me to try it soon, but only because we think it's a good idea that I know
         how the house on wheels moves on down the road. My husband enjoys
         driving, and we keep our days short so it hasn't been a problem for us. Happy
         trails, Dorothy

Dealing with Traffic
Posted by Bill Gifford on April 25, 1999 at 17:37:28:
         Hi Friends, We just returned home from a 3500 mile roadtrip. To be honest,
         everytime I saw a beautiful RV rollin down the road I was jealous. Just
         chompin at the bit to start my fulltime RVing life. But as I was driving, our lil
         Geo Storm, it became clearer to me that there are absolute fools on our
         highways. what with the unsafe driving practices { you all get my meaning}
         How do most of you handle such rude drivers? and is it difficult to handle those
         big rigs? Ours is going to be probably {near as I can get my wife to aggree on
         ;)} a 37' Tradewind. Tell me please, Whats it like traveling the highways during
         these times?

Posted by John on May 08, 1999 at 10:08:01:
        In Reply to: Dealing with Traffic posted by Bill Gifford on April 25, 1999
         Bill, traffic is a wondrous thing sometimes. I just finished reading a post on
         another site about an Rver who was looking for a radar detector. See it's not
         only the cars and truck that can be a problem, it can be us too. You learn to
         drive a little differently when you are wheeling a big rig down the road. You
         learn quickly, and hopefully without mishap, to leave much more following
         distance. You learn to look around more and make sure you have some place
         to go in an emergency. Even stopping for gas can be an adventure. You need
         to know the limits of your rig and where you can take it. I have misjudged a gas
         station before and had to unhook the toad to get out of their driveway.
         Somewhat embarrassing, but not fatal. You must constantly watch not only
         your own driving, but also everyone else. As with big trucks, the little folks
         don't understand that you cannot stop in 10 feet when they cut in front of you
         and slam on the brakes. I enjoy driving our 35 foot class A. We pull a Saturn
         Wagon behind it. You just need to understand how big you really are and the
         dynamics involved in swerving and stopping such a great deal of weight. It
         might sound scary, but it isn't any different than driving a car, you just need to
         multiply those car "factors" by a bunch to modify them for a motorhome. The
         best part of motorhome driving is that you can see a lot more. You get to see
         the tailights from a backup before the cars below you do. Just take it easy and
         you will have fun. We have started leaving after 9 and stopping before 4 if
         possible. That keeps us out of rush hour where ever we are. As we move into
         fulltiming in 30 months, I suspect we will drive even less on those days we
         move. John 

RV Living
Posted by Sue Quinn on April 19, 1999 at 22:56:35:
         My husband is at retirement age and I am nine yrs. younger. I have awhile
         before I retire but due to his health, I would like to spend some quality time
         with him. He would like to try RV living. I was wondering if it would be feasible
         for us to try this. Is there part time jobs one can get to carry them over etc.
         How will this work in our situation? If anyone has any suggestions, please let us
         know. Thanks. 
 

Posted by george on April 20, 1999 at 13:46:10:
        In Reply to: RV Living posted by Sue Quinn on April 19, 1999 at 22:56:35:
          Sue, anything that you can do in a house you can do in a rv, exception being
          that you can move an rv. look at places such as www.workamper.com and
          others, www.workersonwheels.com also. they offer fulltime jobs or seasonal
          employment. happy motoring george

Jury Duty
Posted by Kirk on April 04, 1999 at 21:20:08:
         We are approaching the point of going fulltime, and we have wondered what
         people do about jury calls? Here in Texas the list is anyone who is registered to
         vote, or has a driver's licence. What happens whe you get called to serve?
 
 

Posted by george on April 06, 1999 at 06:51:00:
        In Reply to: Jury Duty posted by Kirk on April 04, 1999 at 21:20:08:
         Kirk, I am told at www.escapees.com that this is not a usual problem. If called,
         2 things can happen....1. serve 2. call/write or otherwise cummicate with the
         office charged with the calling of juries and ask that you have a deffermant until
         you have returned to that local. I am told that in fact this is nearly always the
         accepted practice. happy motoring george 
 

Posted by Ken on April 08, 1999 at 19:10:56:
        In Reply to: Jury Duty posted by Kirk on April 04, 1999 at 21:20:08:
          I was told that only 70% of the people even show up for jury duty. And they
          don't call or check why. This is the 90's you know. 
 

What if one spouse doesn't like fulltiming
Posted by Jerry Kreger on April 02, 1999 at 02:15:07:
         My wife Cheryl, and are in the preparation stage of going fulltime. We expect
         our house to be sold in June or July, upgrade our 34' coach to a 40' and be on
         our way by September. After taking an early retirement, we spent about nine
         months living in the 34' while traveling from Washington State to Michigan,
         Alabama, and California as a contract Tool Engineer. With side trips, we
         traveled to and thru 38 states. We loved it. So much so, that when the job was
         completed, I was ready right then and there to continue the fulltime adventure.
         Alas, we didn't. We came back home and sort of mothballed our coach for
         occasional outings. About a month ago, Cheryl said she want to sell our home,
         get a bigger coach and really go fulltime. I was delighted. Tonight she asked
         me, "what if say, after two or three years, I want to return to a permanent
         home, would you give it up?" I said, "if we sell out and do go fulltime, I really
         don't want to quit until poor health and/or old age dictates I do". Wrong
         answer!! Certainly if she didn't want to continue we would quit, but from all of
         your experiences, don't you think if she loves it now with the exposure we've
         had, that she will want to continue? I just don't want to start this with doubt. I
         sure would like some experienced feedback. Thanks, Jerry 
 

Posted by Barb Hofmeister on April 02, 1999 at 09:21:39:
        In Reply to: What if one spouse doesnt like fulltiming posted by Jerry Kreger on 4/2/99
         Jerry, When we started out, we only intended to full-time for one to two years
         and just celebrated our 10th year. I don't think you should put a time table on
         your full-timing adventure. Even now, we don't know how much longer we are
         going to stay out here. We say that we will full-time until we get tired of it. I
         don't think your wife is unreasonable. Ron would never have agreed to full-time
         if he thought it would be forever. Let the lifestyle work on both of you and
         maybe you won't like it as much as you think or maybe she will have so much
         fun that she would never give it up. You just won't know until you really get on
         the road. Barb 
 

Posted by Toni Warriner on April 05, 1999 at 18:42:10:
        In Reply to: Re: What if one spouse doesnt like fulltiming posted by Barb on 4/2/99
         Jerry, We are in our mid 50's and are about to become full timers. I guess one
         would say I am the spouse, and all I can say is listen to Barb. We have an
         tentative goal of FTing for 10 years. This all depends on our health and whether
         we grow tired of wandering in time. Maybe we will do it til we drop in our
         tracks. I think I'd like that. Good luck to you and yours and keep an open
         mind. 

Full-timing
Posted by Vickie Peterman on March 05, 1999 at 13:56:12:
         I just found this site today and have really enjoyed it. I have spent all day on the
         net. We will be starting our life fulltimg in Fall 99. It seems such a big step but I
         know we will love it. I can't thank you enough for this site. It has answered so
         many questions and I'm sure will answer alot more. Thanks again for all your
         help and keep up the good work. Vickie 

Posted by Omer Cowen on April 05, 1999 at 13:22:19:
        In Reply to: fulltiming posted by Vickie Peterman on March 05, 1999
         We are in the latter stages of fullfilling plans to begin full time RVing (date to
         start out: May 25, 1999). This week (April 5, 1999) is an estate sale of all
         (minus a few items we have stored and family items given to family)...the estate
         people are a th is moment pricing all the household goods. I must say I am
         having some mixed emotions upon seeinig "things" being sold...BUT not that I
         am having second thoughts about Full Time RVing...it is a sadness to see things
         go..but a hurrah to see the future to hold "full time RVing". We moved into our
         RV two days ago...to have the estate sale..then to redo the duplex (we own it)
         for lease...then I retire, May 21..an we are off...It just seems strange now at
         this precarious moment we are experiencing...Did anyone else feel this
         way?????????? 
 

Posted by Vickie on May 06, 1999 at 10:26:59:
        In Reply to: Re: fulltiming posted by Omer Cowen on April 05, 1999
         The closer we get the more I'm looking forward to it and getting started. We
         are hoping to be on the rode by Aug 99. By now you are already going and
         hopefully enjoying it. How did your auction turn out? Let us know please. What
         all went into it? Our auctioneer is coming today at 1:00 and we'll find out alot
         more but would like to hear from someone who's been there, done that. I'd
         email you but figure your on the road and may not have same email. Mine is
         vgfarms@mvcc.com for now. Thanks Vickie 

Getting Ready
Posted by Sondra Holloway on March 03, 1999 at 22:41:24:
         Well, we have finally started to get on the road. Putting the old homestead up
         for sale. We have read both of your books from cover to cover and getting
         anxious to get on the road. Naturally, we are scared some but are happy to
         finally be able to start selling everything. We hope one of these days to meet
         you in person. Don't know where we are going to head first but really depends
         on time of year. We Pull a 31ft. fifth wheel Holiday Rambler with a Dodge
         3500 p/u but are considering trading for a medium duty Freightliner. Sondra &
         Bill Holloway Murray, Ky. Sondra & Bill Holloway .
 

Posted by Mary jane Ball on March 28, 1999 at 17:09:34:
        In Reply to: Getting Ready posted by Sondra Holloway on March 03, 1999
            We are goin' fulltimin' next month. Nervous and excited. Need info on
            insurance.and someone going thru this!! 
 

Posted by Dave Jenkins on March 29, 1999 at 14:09:52:
        In Reply to: Re: Getting Ready posted by Mary jane Ball on March 28, 1999
         Pretty easy. Foremost, Progressive and General are the only 3 I've found that
         take fulltimers. And welcome to the world of fulltiming! Hope you like it as
         much as my wife and I do. Dave 
 

NEW RVERS
Posted by TED JENDREY on February 07, 1999 at 23:50:52:
                     How does one know rving full time is for you? 
 

Posted by Barb Hofmeister on February 08, 1999 at 01:24:17:
        In Reply to: NEW RVERS posted by TED JENDREY on February 07, 1999
        If you like to travel, but hate motels and packing a suitcase, you might be suited
         for full-timing. If you are looking for a sense of freedom and a chance to live
         anywhere for a while without worrying about having to sell a house everytime
         you move, you might be a candidate. If you are looking for a simple yet exciting
         life, it might be for you. The only way you can tell if it is for you is to try it out.
         Short trips in a rented RV will give you a feel for the lifestyle and you will at
         lease know if you are comfortable in RVs and campgrounds. Keep in touch. I
         hope others might have something to add to this. 
 

Posted by Ed Richmond on February 28, 1999 at 10:42:09:
        In Reply to: NEW RVERS posted by TED JENDREY on February 07, 1999
         The other answers are good, of course, but I just wanted to add that asking this
         questions is about like asking how you know if you are really in love. That's
         hard for someone other than yourself to answer. 
 

Posted by Norm Wyner on February 18, 1999 at 15:17:49:
        In Reply to: Re: NEW RVERS posted by Barb Hofmeister on February 08, 1999
         How do you know full-time RVing is right for you? Do you like living in a small
         space that can be defined as a "cubby hole?" Do you like living in an area with
         a bunch of gypsies? Do you enjoy playing Bingo with a bunch of Geezers?
         Now ignore the previous stupid questions and go out and try it. That's the only
         way to find out. From a three-year full-timer who loves it. 
 

Posted by Mrs P on March 03, 1999 at 22:12:06:
        In Reply to: Re: NEW RVERS posted by Norm Wyner on February 18, 1999
         If you enjoy "DRIVING" is the big question? Meeting people, living in different
         places, ? ? Having a home that is not so spacious. Every trip will be an
         adventure. By the way, RVers are not gypsies, and we don't live in cobbie
         holes. You also have to have the right RV for you and your traveling
         companian. Comfortable enough and livable . Remember Its your home away
         from home. GOOD LUCK !
 

Worries
Posted by Nancy Norm Roller on March 01, 1999 at 00:29:58:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Shirley Cullen on February 20, 1999
         We are also planning on going full-timing, possibably before Norm is eligible for
         retirement. We found that The Escapees Club offers it's members a health
         insurance group plan. We have checked into the group plan but it isn't cheap.
         The monthly premium for the 2 of us would be around $250. There was a
         range of prices depending deductables, your ages, and current health. If you
         are really looking at fulltiming without having health care provided via a
         retirement plan you should check out the Escapees Club at
         http://www.escapees.com/. If you come across other health plans for fulltimers
         we'd like to know. Nancy & Norm Roller 

Posted by Agnes on March 01, 1999 at 11:07:38:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Nancy Norm Roller on March 01, 1999
         Wow, that's an excellent rate! Can you tell me which plan and which deductible
         you selected? Also, if you don't mind saying, what are your ages? The reason I
         ask is because we checked into that insurance and were told the cost would be
         about $700/month. Needless to say, that's not cheap! Would really appreciate
         knowing how you got it down to $250. Thanks!
 

Posted by Nancy Roller on March 12, 1999 at 23:39:34:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Agnes on March 01, 1999 at 11:07:38:
         We are 39 and 47, both are non smokers. We were looking at the 50/50
         coinsure with a $500 deductable. We're not quite ready to go full time and
         were checking into health insurance just in case.... The most expensive for us at
         our ages would be $405 a month with the 80/20 coinsure plan with a $100
         deductable. When I talked to them they told me that the rates would be
         different if we changed our address when we were ready to sign up. Age of
         course makes a difference. Hope this helps. 
 

Posted by Nancy Malon on April 06, 1999 at 16:10:48:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Nancy Norm Roller on March 01, 1999
         I was very interested in what you had to say about insurance. My husband is
         52 and I am 51 and are interested in getting insurance so that we can full-time.
         When I checked with the Escapees insurance they said they do not offer it to
         Californians. They are working on offering it to Texans as we speak. I asked
         them to send me information anyway as I would be willing to move and change
         residency if the cost was less than other insurance. Would you mind letting me
         know you and your wifes ages? I am very curoius. 
 

Posted by jjarrowmac on February 07, 1999 at 15:44:27:
        In Reply to: worries posted by Barb Hofmeister on February 07, 1999
         My worry as we plan to begin fulltiming is if we can REALLY afford it and
         what it will REALLY cost.

Posted by Ron Hofmeister on February 08, 1999 at 11:05:06:
         We worried too just because it seemed like a different world out there. We talk
         about finances a lot in the new book so I hope you have that and that it helps.
         But basically you just need to look at the expense categories we have in the
         book and see if yours would be the same. In the beginning, when I was trying
         to figure out if we could afford this, Barb always said, "So, if we run out of
         money, we can just find jobs." We never had to, but did enjoy the money
         saving benefits of volunteering in national parks. The work was easy and we
         saved a lot of money. Hope this helps, Ron. 
 

Posted by Tina Holady on February 21, 1999 at 19:00:23:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Ron Hofmeister on February 08, 1999
         Hi! Glad we found you. We are planning on semi-retiring in 4 years. We have
         bought an old school bus with a great motor and are converting it. Our boys
         are both nearly out of school, so they should be pretty settled in 4 years and
         that would give us a home base. The only thing that really concerns us is my
         health. Without going into detail, we are wondering how much it costs and how
         difficult it is to find insurance on the road. We had thought of getting a policy
         now that could be used as a backup with our work insurance and than when
         the time comes, we'd be set up. Any ideas anyone out there has would be
         greatly appreciated. 
 

Posted by Dan Roberts on March 02, 1999 at 01:16:16:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Tina Holady on February 21, 1999
         Tina, my wife and I just sold our home, (closed today) and plan to begin full
         timing in June. Health insurance is definitely a major item, and I've seen it from
         both ends, since I'm a Family Doc. HMOs are usually the best value in
         insurance, (in spite of the bad press), but are not very portable. That is they will
         normally pay for emergency care any place in the country, but for routine care,
         require you to see "in plan" providers, and since most are only in one area, that
         can be a problem. So for Full Timers, Point of Service, or Indemnity insurance
         is the best, though more expensive. Because of "Cobra" (federal legislation),
         companies which provide insurance through your employment must allow you
         to buy that same insurance after you retire, but only for 18mo. So if you have a
         choice in insurance with your employer, it makes sense to switch to an
         indemnity or Point of Service type of plan just before your retire. If, like us, you
         didn't (we kept our HMO), you can still get the emergencies covered on the
         road, and come back to your old home base for routine care for that 18mo.
         Happy RVing. Dan Roberts 
 

Posted by Agnes on February 08, 1999 at 10:31:52:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by jjarrowmac on February 07, 1999
        We have the same concern but are going to give it a try in spite of them! Our
         major financial worry is medical insurance costs and we will have that worry
         whether we are fulltime RVers or retires settled in a stationary home. We just
         know we do not want to be tied down to full time jobs any longer and enjoy
         adventure so are pretty certain we'll love the life on the road. HOWEVER, we
         have decided to keep some furniture in storage for a year - just in case we're
         totally wrong in our thinking! I'm sure everyone starting out had some concern
         or other that made them hesitant. It's like anything else in life. You make
         choices based on what you believe at that time and then forge ahead! Good
         luck and, I hope, happy traveling! 
 

Posted by Ebs on February 18, 1999 at 23:03:17:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Agnes on February 08, 1999 at 10:31:52:
           Nobody has answered this question!! What does it REALLY cost? Has
           anyone done a SURVEY regarding actual average costs? I'd like to see it
           BEFORE I tell my boss good bye. I'm new to researching this. Presently
           looking for a 5th wheel to play with for a year or 2 before retiring. 
 

Posted by Barbara Hofmeister on February 19, 1999 at 00:28:05:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Ebs on February 18, 1999 at 23:03:17:
         Ebs, Ron has done the most complete accounting of anyone we are aware of.
         Did you check the budget page in this web site? And our new book has a very
         large chapter on what the lifestyle costs right down to the last penny. And we
         not only include what we actually spend but what others spend too. It appears
         that the average (not including any RV payment) is in the $2,500 to $3,000 per
         month. But there are so many variables that the only way you can figure out
         what your costs will be is to look at all the categories we post and after reading
         what is inculded in each category you can pretty find where you will be. The
         reason that we were asked to be on Good Morning America is because of the
         extensive finance work Ron did in regards to this lifestyle. If we can be of any
         more help, please don't hesitate to email us. Barb 
 

Posted by Tom Phillips on March 22, 1999 at 15:29:07:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Barbara Hofmeister on February 19, 1999
         Barb, I don't know how you and Ron came up with $2,500 to $3,000 per
         month for expenses (less the RV payments). AS a comparison, I have a big 5
         year old house in Texas we designed and had built. I keep very accurate
         records of living in a home, right down to the last plant that died in the back
         yard. My total expences to run this big 3000sqft house (includes mortgate,
         Utilities (two airconditioners), Phone, cable, is $2,000 per month average.
         $1900 during spring and fall when the heat or cold is bearable. Food you need
         anyway (ours is $200 pm). So, with food, say at $300 + $2000 = $2300 for
         everything necessary to live. Of course, magazines, entertainment, other things,
         run up the "Style" of living, but are not in the necessary column. It seems to me,
         that RV living should be as follows: (average mortgage on RV = $350 to $600
         per month, Utilities (gas, hookups, etc.)$200, p/m Cell Phone = $150 p/m
         ATT One Rate (1500minutes anywhere in the U.S. and no roaming charges.
         That all costs (worce case) 600+200+150 = $950 to live in an average cost
         RV = $75,000. Now add all those crazy costs like eating out, wine, beer, new
         TV, extra soap, movies, etc. OH! add $450 p/m for health insurance, $800
         p/m for vehicle insurance and now you have $950+ $450+800+(goodies =
         200p/m)=$2400 tops. OH, and throw in a CPU with modem and AOL or
         other ISP provider and maybe you top $2600 p/m. But the total includes al
         whole lot more than was indicated in the $2500 figure you sited. Of course,
         you could save lots of money if you too out some of the unnecessary things I
         listed above. If you include a savings plan, you may need more, but what a
         deal! $2600 to live in a RV with all those goodies, wow! I should beat this
         behmoth house of mine any day in living costs, including the vehicle mortgage,
         don't you think? Now all you have to do is - GET A JOB you can do while on
         the road, and live like a king. Happy trails Tom
 

Posted by Rich Emond on March 09, 1999 at 03:56:12:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Barbara Hofmeister on February 19, 1999
         Ron and Barb's financial section is excellent. Another one that is good is on
         Mark Nemeth's web site, Mark's Fulltime Adventure:
         http://bart.ccis.com/home/mnemeth/. He has been on the road since June 1997
         in his fiver and publishes his costs. I think he just updated it recently. Good
         luck. Peace, Rich 
 

Posted by marge on February 19, 1999 at 02:54:41:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Barbara Hofmeister on February 19, 1999
         We are planning to fulltime as soon as we sell our home,which is on the market.
         We are 65&63 both due to retire march 15th. We look forward to traveling and
         have felt we have a fairly good budget, which, I might say comes to a much less
         total than your. I have took the items that apply to us from your budget, and
         come up with much less amt. when I read your budget and others that say it
         would take 2 & 3 ooo dollars a month to fulltime, it makes me to give up my
         dream. then, I say, no way, it can be done on less. Enjoy your Movin On. Tried
         some of the recipes this week, Jerry says, they're keepers. Thanks for this
         section. was wondering if anyone has any suggestions as how to prevent having
         to put down awning, jacks , etc......to go to the dump station.. 
 

Posted by Shirley on March 01, 1999 at 15:54:45:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by marge on February 19, 1999 at 02:54:41:
         Life is full of uncertainties. Why should full time RV'ing be any different? I will a
         full timer as of June this year. Am I concerned about finances? You bet!
         However, I have enough faith in myself and the opportunities available (I have
         researched a lot over the past two years) that I am certain that I will make it,
         one way or another. I know for certain that this is something I want with all of
         my heart and soul. Will I miss my kids and grandkids? Of course! Will there be
         challenges and problems to overcome? Without a doubt!! But what are your
         options??? Forgo your dreams, grow old and die in your sleep without ever
         taken a chance??? I think not!!! I think that everyone should follow their
         dreams and make it work... There are few guarantees in life and, in my opinion
         life to way too short to spend it worrying... Follow your dreams... Happy trails
         Shirley 
 

Posted by Barb Ron on March 14, 1999 at 16:37:10:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Shirley on March 01, 1999 at 15:54:45:
         I am a little late in reading all of these postings, but this one deserves a GOLD
         STAR!! She has the right attitude for this lifestyle. You will do well, Shirley.
         Thanks for taking the time to write. Barb 
 

Posted by Jon and Lorraine on March 21, 1999 at 23:55:34:
        In Reply to: Re: worries posted by Shirley on March 01, 1999 at 15:54:45:
         Shirley, we will be following you in November. You are correct it would be
         worse not trying it and never knowning, than going and not liking it. Have fun.
         See you at the top of the hill. Jon and Lorraine