Feel like becoming a Gypsi !! Lake Gogebic

7-6-14 Presently at Lake Gogebic State Park near Marenisco, Mich. In the Western Upper Penninsula.

I was thinking about our “ Gypsy Lifestyle “ today, if that's what you call it. We have the ability to go where we want, when we want and seldom worry about deadlines. That's quite a change from what life was like a few years ago. I'm sure anyone contemplating becoming an RV gypsy wonders how they would acclimate to this lifestyle. But...that's one of the tricks to make the change!! It's not a vacation..it's a “lifestyle”.

As most newbies start out they move around quickly as they're still in a frame of mind, developed during their working years, that they have to cram as much in as if they were on vacation. I remember thinking I needed a vacation after my vacation.

Once the dust settles, usually after the first year, it hits ya “ What's my rush??” Things that you always rushed thru become mundane and relaxed. The grin on your face comes more easily, people you come across put you at ease. Bonfires become second nature. Things you worried about become less and less.

Because we travel in an older, classic motorhome people always ask us what we do for any breakdowns. We decided, long ago, that it would be burdensome to carry $100000 of debt and always have to head to an RV dealer for repairs to do the very same thing we do now with no payments. If we need a repair we always find a truck repair place to fix most anything. Another perk is I can get almost any parts needed at and auto supply. Our 454 (7.4L) Chevy drivetrain and a P30 Chevy chassis is very common and parts are always available. Unlike the newer rigs, I can still work on this one and not have to worry about all the gadgets that seem to be a boondoggle to all the new rigs.

We've been on the road now for almost 5 years and fulltiming for 2 years and so far so good. Total down days due to breakdowns?? About 8 days. Not too bad. Been towed 2 times and got lucky enough to camp in the repair yard a few times. Only had to use a motel once. ( of course, repairs at a Chevy dealer). Another ploy I use is to find a local pub owner and ask who does repairs..works every time.

I recommend Progressive fulltimer's insurance and Good Sam Road Service to hedge your bets. We've had good service from both.

Feels good to be in our home state. Have plans to cruise around in the U.P. and do some sightseeing. We'll be up here for a week+ (jello plan) and then drift to the “mitt”. Some visiting with some friends I worked with are in the plan. Haven't seen Mitchie & Pam in quite awhile.

Sault Ste Marie, where I spent my Coast Guard years, and the casino there, will encompass next week. Memories, memories !!

Hope ya'll had a great 4^th of July weekend, we did.

I lost the ring Heather gave me !! She found it in the fire pit! All is well..thank you Lord !!

REMEMBER, LIVE YOUR DREAMS AS TIME GOES BY QUICKLY !!

Charlie & Heather