I've been procrastinating writing this post, because it makes me feel a little sad. Our 9-month RV road trip is coming to an end. RVPainter and I have decided to rent a condo here in lovely Punta Gorda, Florida starting January 1st. That sounds like a good thing, you say? Well, yes, it's certainly not a bad thing, it's just that it wasn't the original plan.
We had thought to continue on in the RV through this time next year - staying in Florida through March and then heading west and northwest. But I have realized that while I LOVE traveling and experiencing new places in the RV, it doesn't work for me as a "way of life." It works as a way of being on vacation, but I need the normal routines of daily life in a familiar place too. I need a homebase from which to go out into the world - I can't be out on the go all the time. So, we are establishing a homebase here, at least for this coming year. We'll see how we like it (especially summer!)
The sad part is that we plan to sell the RV, because we can't really afford to rent a place AND keep the motorhome and do all the traveling in it (that part's not cheap!). If we can find a way to keep it and be able to use it, we'll do that, but right now we don't see how to make that happen.
It's strange, because I find this decision far more heart-wrenching than I found selling our home in Santa Fe and hitting the road - or than leaving any home we've had for that matter. And I really loved some of our homes! I think it's the letting go of a cherished dream that is hard - it's been such a unique and intense experience.
If you've followed along with the blog this year, you know that we had WONDERFUL adventures and spent time in beautiful places. We saw new places like San Antonio, Charleston and Nova Scotia, and got to revisit beloved familiar places like Maine and Quebec.
We were so blessed to have this experience - so fortunate to be able to take the time to hit the road and just see and do. There were scary and stressful times too, but life is filled with those no matter whether you are on the move or staying put. I will cherish the memories we have of this year forever, and every time I look back at the photographs I will be right back in those places.
Thank you for being with me along the way. Endings are beginnings, so we look ahead to the next adventure.
Much love,
Melissa
You've had an amazing adventure, though! And it was a huge one at that. You can't always predict how things will work out, but knowing what's best for you and looking forward to the next phase is much better than travelling for another year and not enjoying it so much. It's fantastic you were able to follow your dream thus far :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Annalisa - the experience has been truly priceless. We were very lucky to do what we've done. Thank you for the supportive words.
DeleteHi Melissa .. it's all change - but c'est la vie sometimes .. and a time of settlement will let you sort things out.
ReplyDeleteI've been vaguely around watching as you go .. but I look forward to new photos of the condo and Florida highlights ..
Enjoy Christmas and then the New Year once you've settled in ... cheers Hilary
Hi Hilary - you've always been such a positive and supportive friend - much appreciated! Happy Christmas and New Year to you too!
DeleteI'm sorry to hear your travels are coming to an end. But, I believe every ending is a new beginning, so you'll find some new adventure soon.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Paul. I'm looking ahead to what comes next. You are always an ispiration to me. Let me know if you want to send me a post for the blog this month - anything is fine. And you can send me pictures of you and your book cover to melissaanngoodwin@yahoo.com.
DeleteKaren, thanks for understanding - it IS hard to let dreams go. But it feels right - each day a little better and now that I'm sharing it and saying it out loud, it helps me to accept the decision. New ones always DO come along - we forget that sometimes in the thick of things.
ReplyDeleteHi Melissa! I understand how you're feeling. Having a dream...thinking about it and then actually planning it, and then doing it takes such courage! You've shared so much of it with us and it's been quite an adventure. But I am just like you. Although I would love driving around in an RV and seeing the country, I couldn't do that as my way of life. I need a place of my own. A place to stay. I know you and your wonderful husband will enjoy wherever you are and whatever the future brings. Follow your bliss! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Becky, I DO think that I was brave to do it! RVPainter and I will make a new start - step by step, and see where it takes us. Thanks for the love.
DeleteEndings and beginninga are circular really aren't they? I remember your reservations before you left on the big adventure in the motor home, and some of the glitches along the way. I love that on balance you and RV found the magic - and really hope that you find a way to keep the motorhome and the condo. In any event, I really look forward to hearing of your next adventures.
ReplyDeleteWe did find the magic and I am so glad you were with me along the way. xo
DeleteI've loved reading your RV travel posts, but I quite understand wanting to stay put somewhere for a while. And you've chosen a lovely place to be. (It will be hot in the summer, no question. My sister's in laws used to reside in Florida from the first of November until the end of April and then they would live in the western North Carolina mountains from May until October.)
ReplyDeleteThanks Lynn, you've been a faithful friend. :) It will be a new experience. We'd love to do what your sister-in-law does, so we hope to find a way to do that over time. As my hubby says, Time Will Tell - or "TWT".
DeleteWhat amazing adventures you have had! I agree with Paul Anthony that every ending is a new beginning. Here's to new beginnings and happy memories!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the well-wishes Donna!
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