AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

I posted some inside pics for Bear2 on page 3 if you are interested. It looks big, but handles really well and I don't even notice the length - at least not yet. Thanks for the congrats. I never thought I would have the nerve to do this - but once I took the plunge I am really looking forward to my adventures.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

It's funny, my Dad wanted to get an airstream and pull it across county after he retired years ago, and my Mom said the same thing. I love camping and don't mind getting smokey, dirty, and so on. When I add up flights, rental cars, motels (and I don't stay in the most expensive) and meals, what I paid for the MH would only take me on 6 trips. Each person has their own pattern of travel, and I love the idea that I now don't have to be to the next motel on a certain date if I find I want to stay in a place a day or two longer. Williamsburg should be stunning over the holidays. You and your family have a very merry Christmas.

PaulG Loc: Western Australia

Just saw them... thanks. Real home away from home. And amazing how much you can fit in there. Here's to happy travels

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

That is cute!

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

ID - I am so sorry to hear about your wife. That has to be devastating for both of you. That is a horrible disease and my heart goes out to you. You have a beautiful rig and I am sure it will be your haven when you need it to be. Many prayers for you, her and your family. May this Christmas be a gentle and special one for you both.

IDguy Loc: Idaho

I hadn’t thought about a name for her. Of course, like a ship, she is a her.

I’d like to name her after my wife but since I don’t plan to be a loner after this is over that might not be the greatest idea. One idea would be Amelia, after the world famous air traveller. But that’s the name of my great granddaughter. Ideas on other great female travelers?

IDguy Loc: Idaho

Thank you. Yes, very difficult.

This week is double trouble as we lost our eldest son to suicide last year. His birthday is this week.

IDguy Loc: Idaho

The greatest thing about RVs is that you get to take all your stuff and once loaded you never need to lug it. To say nothing of what you save in time and money by not having to eat out.

Plus the journey is often as good or better than the destination.

What I paid, plus the gas it will use, would pay for a lot of five star hotel nights. But I think it worth it. There aren’t any hotels most of the places I stay.

I rarely stay in commercial RV parks. That’s a lot easier out west where I roam most.

GreenReaper

Way to go Auntie!! Looks great and I'm sure yo will enjoy the trip, where ever it may lead you. We named ours the Moho. I know very original (MotorHome).

IDguy Loc: Idaho

You need to do your research to get a flat towable toad (that’s the jargon).

None of the small SUVs with automatic transmission work. No Toyotas or Subarus work. Many conventional 4x4s do but they need to have a transfer case with a neutral position. You need to check the manual on flat towing.

Plus Jeep even screwed up the Cherokee a few years ago (and still) by putting in electronic steering. You can get a wiring kit to make it work bit then it sucks down the battery.

I got the 2016 standard transmission Jeep Patriot after much research. It is light and easy to drive. And cheap. I don’t even feel it back there with the F450 V10.

I got a brake kit but don’t bother with it for short trips. You only need it for panic stops. I do have brake lights wired to the motorhome. That can be another issue as the wiring can get complex with LED lights. The Patriot has a nice flat spot inside the taillight where you can install an extra lightbulb wired directly to the motorhome. When I use the brake kit it also turns on the Jeep’s brake lights.

I’ll probably go to the 4wd version now I know I can afford more weight.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

Not having many women explorers at my fingertips, I looked them up on the internet - only knew 2 beside Amelia Earhart - Nellie Bly and Calamity Jane. You could always call the rig the "Nelly Belle" like on the Roy Rogers show.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

Learning this second piece of information I cannot imagine how you are keeping yourself sane at this time. I will double my prayers for you and your family.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

I love the name - and I never would have guessed it was short for Motor Home.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

I have always felt that I was a pioneer child that never made it to my destination out west, because I keep being called to travel there. Now I have my own covered wagon (again?) and maybe can complete my original trip. I love camping, and this is just a better "tent" to take along.

AuntieM Loc: Eastern NC

I'm going to look for a 4X4 that has been set up for flat towing already. I have seen some advertised in the past, so this too shall come to me.