Fly Away Bamboo Babe!

"Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure... than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy nor suffer much, because they live in a gray twilight that knows not victory nor defeat." ~Teddy Roosevelt~


Bamboo is flexible, but extremely strong. I wish to be like bamboo. Perhaps the 'Bamboo Babe'! As the bamboo bends in the winds of change, Grasshopper, I, Bamboo Babe, also adjust to the unforeseen. As the great philosopher, Lenny Kravitz, said in his song Fly Away, "I wanna get away!"

Trust, but expect the unexpected. Kung Fu wisdom still applies. After all of the unexpected, I've caved and bought a ticket to Orlando leaving Thursday, June 3rd. I intend to use the extra couple of days to be more prepared and take care of some paperwork at home.


My friend, brother and 'chauffeur', Andrew will graciously not leave me stranded at the airport.   Margaret will meet me in Orlando. We will graduate and, maybe, take off on another adventure up the East coast. Should make for some interesting stories. The cats will stay home for a bit longer. Though I will miss them, they will be in loving hands.


The RV trip WILL happen. I am 'Bamboo Babe'! For now, the blog continues with the... unexpected!

Destined to Travel Alone

Margaret is too valuable! Everyone wants her. Right now, her school district wants her to do more work. This means that she will not be able to join me. Welcome to my roller coaster! I hear the song by Willie Nelson, "On the Road Again... " with new lyrics: "On my own again!"

We had training today. I wisely got my toes painted at lunch. They must look good for the long drive. Then I drove adventurously through unknown streets to avoid the exploded tanker on the 91 freeway. I couldn't let a little traffic stop me from getting my car checked for the trip.

Ahhh! Waiting in the Honda dealership for two hours was interesting. The TV was on crime shows and I listened to a man with a faded orange turban play on his cell phone. The beep, beep, beeping just kept going and going. Funny how such a small sound can seem so loud after a while. The icing on the cake was the serviceman's announcement that I needed 3 new tires.  The fourth was replaced when it went flat a few months ago. I usually like watching "Bones", but this time I just wanted to go home for a nap.

Since I just found out this morning that Margaret won't be joining me... again, I haven't completely decided when I will leave. Probably Sunday morning will be best because I need Saturday to rest somewhat.

After my last post, my friend, Dawn, called and offered to help me have a garage sale Saturday. One thing I have wanted to do is de-clutter. This is a great opportunity to get some needed cash and clean house. Hopefully I'm up to it because right now I just want to sleep!

RV Needs INTENSIVE Care

So, perhaps, I should have known when Margaret had to take care of other plans that something was wrong. Robert, the RV serviceman, gave me the news in a very gentle way. I think he's had practice with giving bad news. I'll spare you the details, but it basically needs a new carburator, fuel filter and sundry items.  They all add up to over $2000. Final nail...it cannot possibly be ready until at least Tuesday.  Graduation is on Friday and I do not believe that I could make it on time.

In shock from the estimate, I called Margaret again. Since she is driving anyway, we agreed to go together to make it to graduation. We will either take my car to Florida or her rental. I'm still processing the whole situation, but I could leave my car in Florida and return to get the RV after graduation. This would provide an opportunity to do some more work on my home before returning. Plus, the cats will have to stay home a bit longer.

I haven't given up on the RV trip, yet. I just need some creative ways to fund it. Any ideas?

Setbacks are SO Fun!

Today was the last student day and I was sad to say goodbye to my students. Yesterday, the district 'kindly' reminded those of us who are laid off that we are still laid off with a special letter:  "Due to the complexity and difficulty involved... we will contact the teachers to be rehired ... no later than June 16, 2010...." Don't you just feel so sad for their difficulties. After all, I only have to evacuate my room entirely in the next two days.

The RV is still at the shop.  They will let me know this afternoon what is needed. I haven't started packing because I had to finish up this month's class while my internet was giving me fits by turning off randomly.

The worst news, though, is that Margaret is once again saving the day for her school and will not be able to join me at the beginning of the trip. She will try to meet me around Albuquerque, but we haven't figured that all out yet. I'm just sadly selfish. I was so looking forward to her company. She can converse so much more intelligently than my dear felines.

Fortunately, I'm thrilled to have a place to stop in Albuquerque, Rita's! I will post the map by tomorrow if there are any other generous souls willing to take in an unemployed, cat-loving teacher. The cats would stay in the RV =^..^=

Since I don't have the tow bar installed for my car, and I don't know about towing it anyway, I'm perplexed at this juncture. Should I bring my car or drive a giant RV around for transportation when I get to Florida?  Maybe I should consider driving my car down for graduation.  Leave it in Florida.  Then fly back to take care of things and return in a more leisurely manner in the RV. Right now I just don't know.

Servicing the RV

Earlier today, I picked up the RV and introduced it to my students. They thought it was great and wanted to go for a joy ride, or have our end-of-the-year party inside. I had my entire class inside and it wasn't that crowded. Pretty nice. One girl said she'd love to be driven to school in it while she worked on homework.

I just returned from the RV service center. The engine has been temperamental about starting without a odorous spray of starting fluid in the intake. Plus, on the way, over an incline, the engine was not very happy. Today is unseasonably cool so this was not a promising sign. In addition, the brake and signal lights do not work. Robert, the RV service man, was very kind and we agreed on what was most important. I have confidence that they will do a good job. Please pray that the cost stays within budget.

Kathy, the office manager, gave me a ride home. As I approached my door, I searched for my keys. After looking for awhile, I realized they were still in the pocket of my sweatshirt which was back in the RV. Not wanting to disturb my neighbors (who, by the way, have saved me more than once when I've forgotten my keys), I tried to jump the fence unsuccessfully. 

Realizing my predicament, I gave in and asked my neighbors, dear Sonia and Howard, for a ladder. They graciously brought two, one for each side of the fence. After carefully lifting the second ladder over the fence, I deftly opened it and promptly dropped it which left me no other choice but to jump over with the slight assistance of some loose stacked cement blocks. All was well at first until a block slipped and I slammed a very personal part right on the top edge of the fence. Victory was mine with a price. I made it over with a simple loss of dignity and a bit of unmentionable discomfort.

Tomorrow I'll find out my next adventure. Tonight I still have homework to finish.

Such is another joyous episode in the life of this absent-minded teacher. 

What's Next in RV Prep?

My 'Slightly Used' RV

After it set in that I actually own this huge vehicle, I thought it needed some preparation. Although I wanted to get the stereo done, I started with a few other things.

I just returned from Target with some new bedding. The RV mattress was rather hard so I figured that a backache was not a good thing when I'm driving. I'll also need some type of pillow for my back since the seat does not adjust. It's actually rather funny. If I sit back, I feel like I need a beer belly and a beer in my hand.  There's so much room in the wrong ways!

I examined the stepping stools because yesterday I scraped my right knee and pinched my left leg behind the knee. Getting in and out of this RV is quite a challenge. Should I post my bruises so far?

Tomorrow I'm taking the RV in to get serviced. Hopefully the starting issue isn't that serious. I hesitated to buy any emergency items until I knew more about what I needed.

RV Rides Home Saturday!

Saturday is the day the lovely, scary RV will roll onto Lincoln Avenue with its giant, imposing presence!  My neighbors warned me about other neighbors who complain about RVs parked near their homes. "You must put a sign on it when it's on Lincoln that you are 'Loading and Unloading' or you'll get a ticket!" Thus begins the next phase of my adventure--Parking!! Wait! I have to learn how to actually drive it first!

Many warm wishes and wary warnings have whisked past my ears since I so recklessly bought this RV sight unseen. Yes, I did. I believe! I believe it will be fantastic.

Tomorrow I will take it to the mechanic.  Let's get real, though.  What's really important is the technology! A proper CD player with MP3 hook up must replace that 80s cassette player.  The 'aoooogah' horn must be tested for appropriate shock value. Then, my personal touch must be applied to those lovely 80s fake wood paneling and table. After all, I will need to look good and enjoy my podcasts if it actually, Lord forbid, breaks down!

The cats have no idea what's coming. They blissfully sleep while I wonder if the anti-stress kitty calmer I will slip into their water will do the trick. Last night I had a dream that Buddy was meowing the entire trip. Oh the horror! Will he try to cuddle on my lap and look out the window? Should I buy kitty seat belts?


Let the RV training begin!

My Kitties

Buddy, my sweetheart! He actually gives me a kiss when I ask, but doesn't always come when called. He doesn't like his picture taken.

Baby, aka Crook, my big baby! He is a big kitty with a tiny meow. He's shy and likes to hide underneath blankets...on top of you.

Tippy, my heart! Poor little thing has turned into a butterball which makes it uncomfortable when she wants to sleep on my chest. She is the most adorable kitty that even cat avoiders love her!

My Inspiration

When I was in high school, I read the book, Walk Across America by Peter Jenkins.  His stories about meeting interesting and helpful people on the way caught my fancy.  It appealed to the part of me that rebelled against the commonly accepted direction for a girl's life at that time.  It appealed to my hunger to learn, explore and experience the world.

My dad once said that he and I shared a 'hobo heart'.  His hopes to explore the entire world never faded.  I know he'd approve of the adventure I've chosen.  He would want to join me, I'm sure.

A friend is joining me! Margaret Campbell also lives in California and will meet me in Riverside on May 28th.  We will leave on the 29th. Both of us are working on the best route.  At this point, it will be a modified southern route through AZ, NM, and TX, then along the Gulf coast.  Let me know if you are along the way so we can visit you, if possible.

Preparation-the PERFECT Shoes

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HILARIOUS! I think I need a pair!

OMG! I bought an RV!!!

Airstream Ranch, Florida

OK...it's one thing to talk about doing it and another to actually make it happen.  I actually won the auction and now am the owner of a new used RV.  No, it's not an Airstream.  I just thought you would enjoy the picture.  Hopefully, mine won't end up like that!

I'm still in shock!  Here we go!  I'll share pictures when I pick it up.

Mobile Internet and Online Photo Sharing Recommendations

Obviously I'll need computer internet on-the-go for this trip.  My research has shown that it might be beneficial to stay with my current provider, AT&T.  The Mobile Broadband Review rates AT&T second after Verizon Wireless.  There are quite a few holes in AT&T coverage along my possible route.  What do my techie friends think about the best choice for use with my MacBook Pro?

Also, for uploading photos, there are several options:  Picasa Web Album, Photobucket, or Flickr.  I tend to favor Flickr because I especially enjoy their connection with Taggalaxy.  The Photo Sharing Services Review gives the number one position to Photobucket with Flickr in second place.  Picasa is not even listed.  I've read the information and would love to hear my respected colleagues' reviews on their favorites.

Thanks for your feedback!!!

Searching for the 'Perfect' RV

   

Wow! I am overwhelmed with all the positive support for my journey.  Thanks for joining me!  I look forward to a unique and wonderful time.

I'm bursting out of my skin I'm so happy. Already I've gotten my hair cut an colored and have lost some of those awful stress pounds. Yeah!

This morning my beloved pets woke me way too early by walking across my chest.  Back and forth, back and forth they went with a definite agenda in mind:  Food!  Padding to their kitty kibble,  I surveyed my home.  It struck me what a crazy thing I was doing.  How could I possibly get prepared in time?  What did I need to do to get ready?  I took a deep breath and made a mental list...the hard copy will be coming soon.

At the top of my list was the need for storage. Today I acquired two storage units of 10' by 10' each.  The special deal was half price for the first four months, so two 10' by 10' units were cheaper than the 10' by 20'.  They credit you for the rental truck, too.  I paid three months in advance.  I'm committed.  My classroom items will be the first to grace those metal walls.  This week will be clean-up and give-away time at school.  Hopefully I'll be done with that by this Friday.  Home stuff...that's in the works.


Next, I need the blasted RV!  I went to several places where the people were happy to say that my search would be fruitless.  I bid them 'good day' and drove away determined to continue undaunted.  My best bet seems to be online purchase through Ebay Motors.  In fact, I just made a bid on one.  Here's the RV I want.  The gentleman selling it has been very helpful, but, of course, he wants more money (who doesn't).  At this moment, I am the highest bidder. I'll have to wait two days for the auction to end.  If you know how Ebay works, this is risky.  Please pray hard because I don't have much time!


                                               Today was also special because I got to see both of my brothers, David and Eric.  They are supportive of my cross country venture.  My heart was happy to hug my nieces, Imelda and Erika, and my nephew, Howard.  I haven't spent enough time with them and they are growing up fast.  What's funny is, I think I might actually get more opportunities to see them now, even though I'm leaving California for the summer, perhaps longer.


As I was writing this, I got a lovely instant message from my dear friend, Margaret.  She has been in the same online master's program with me.  Since she lives in California also, we are discussing the possibility of sharing this trip either as a caravan or together in the RV.  Either way, it's a wonderful addition to the trip.  Joy is doubled when it's shared.

Tippy told me she wants to make a video before we leave.  She is particularly proud of her cute twitchy tail.  Just for her:  Coming to your Computer!  Tippy's Tail Twitching starring Tippy and friends.  You'll laugh!  You'll snicker!  You'll ask for treats!

Countdown to Florida

Today is monumental, at least for me. Today I am committed to a new venture that will change my life completely. Today I am planning the rest of my life. Yesterday it was a dream.

In fact, this dream started in high school. The adventurous side of my spirit always wanted to buy a camper and travel across the U.S. Like many dreams, it got pushed aside for the so-called 'demands' of life. Those 'demands' are draining.

Over the years, I've watched the spark drain out of my spirit. Sure there have been other things that contributed to this dampening. The usual broken heart sagas, years of my mother declining with dementia, and my father's death in 2002 all contributed to the demise of my dreams. However, today is a new day.

Today I have decided to take that trip. I plan to make it to Winter Park, Florida to Full Sail University graduation. For the last year, my hope and spirit have been in a process of restoration through the inspiring Education Media Design and Technology master's program at Full Sail. Hopefully my colleagues will support me in this new endeavor. I truly believe that they are a huge part of the inspiration that has been restoring my soul.

Today I called a man about an RV. The one I want is more expensive than the money I have. One RV seller said that I wouldn't get out of the state with an RV that fit my budget. I don't believe him! Some people are just pessimistic because their box is tight and small with no exit signs anywhere. I have hope. Have it with me. Do you have an RV I could buy or use? It's worth asking!

Today I have two people who will let me stay in their driveways along the way. Today I need to start planning my route because there are more people I want to see.

Why do I want an RV instead of simply driving my car? First, I do not want to leave my 'family' behind. My family includes my faithful felines whose loving faces have greeted me at the door, cuddled, and kept my heart warm. I can't imagine leaving them. The car just is too small. I might even sell it.

Second, the cost of staying in hotels along the way and in Florida for two months is rather expensive (not to mention, they probably don't want three cats). Then, it's also possible that this lovely little movable camper may become my home for awhile.

Today I am entertaining ideas about how to make this trip more interesting to blog. One idea is to use my sweet Tippy as my mascot and take pictures of her everywhere we stop. She will have to make her contributions to the blog, too, of course. Another is to teach something along the way. This would take more planning, but could be an interesting concept. I could give away books along the way to encourage reading. (Maybe Tippy could read some books!)

Today I begin. Will you join me? I hate traveling alone.