[Richard]

The blog was Rhonda's doing. I had a couple of insights that I thought I might share with you. Many of you already know the things I am about to say.

One, this was the first extended trip for us, and the first without any kids or guests. Wow! Living in the coach is SO EASY! I really did not miss all the stuff I left at home.

Two, we had great weather. but on the days that the weather kept us mostly indoors, it sure was nice to have a little room.

We were half and half on the slides. Many one night camps or early starts were spent with slides in. I like the coach is completely useable that way.

Three, the gurus we were able to visit along the way were special days for us. It's nice having an extended family spread across the US.

Four, I didn't fiddle with the coach systems as much as I thought I would. I had a few issues right at the start, and some right at the end, but nothing insurmountable. I think that is a testament to the Newell engineering and the good care that previous owners took of the rig.

Five, I came to the conclusion that despite 35 years of work as an engineer that I missed my life's calling. The last few months convinced me that I should have been a man of leisure all along.

Six, I am on a twelve step recovery program. I am trying not to step in and "help" other people in campgrounds. I only went off the wagon on this trip when vehicles were blocking the road or about to hit the coach. Otherwise, I saw some very entertaining moments in campgrounds.

Seven, Rhonda is the best. I am a very lucky guy. All I do is drive and cook. She does all the grunt work of planning , calling, cleaning, and ..........braking.