You can take it with you, even if it is a job. These motorhomers shared their experiences in response to this month’s question:
Do you work or volunteer while using your motorhome?
We have been motorhoming for 17 years, most recently in our 2005 Damon Escaper, in different scenarios: serving as travel guides to Alaska, Mexico, etc. with Fantasy RV caravans; work camping in campgrounds, public and private RV parks, and amusement parks (i.e., Dollywood); and volunteering in several venues, most recently at James Island County Park in Charleston, South Carolina, for the Holiday Festival Of Lights. We live and travel in such a wonderful country that it is impossible not to enjoy every experience we encounter. We have been known to travel for 16 to 18 months at a time. It’s hard to imagine a more enjoyable, rewarding lifestyle. See you down the road!
Randy & Bobbie Dianis, F209441
Franklinton, Louisiana
Having been self-employed and active for most of my life, I knew that I could not “retire” after we sold our Colorado business 10 years ago, bought a newer motorhome, and decided to go full-time. A neighbor suggested we check out seasonal opportunities with the U.S. Forest Service or National Park Service. I was lucky enough to get hired as a visitor use assistant (fee collector) at Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. There, the educational specialist introduced me to the NPS methodology of presenting programs. And it went from there. I have worked at five different national parks as an interpretive park ranger — uniform, badge, and all — about nine months a year. I completed my ninth winter season at Everglades National Park in Florida and am returning for my eighth summer in Yellowstone. Life is good.
Kirk Singer, F372258
Livingston, Texas
When we started motorhoming in 2007, I worried how I would continue my business of renting out three beach homes on the Oregon coast. But with a little organization, it has worked out well. I’m always available by e-mail and phone. All my contracts are in accordion files that fit perfectly in a cabinet near the coach dining table. I use a MacBook Pro laptop, an iPad, and an iPhone. We use Verizon, and I haven’t found a spot yet with no service. We have MiFi and a booster in the coach, as well as an Epson printer-copier-fax machine. My daughter deposits the checks and contracts that are received by mail. I have duplicate contracts, and we review them weekly by phone. It has not diminished the business or our joy of traveling.
Carol Stotts, F382804
Sisters, Oregon
Because of our motorhome, we have had some fantastic volunteer experiences. 1. Worked with the animals and as receptionist for Heifer International in Perryville, Arkansas. 2. Helped in the kitchen and with the animals, set up a library, and did miscellaneous tasks at Campbell Farm outside Wapato, Washington. 3. Helped with construction and cleaning at John Knox Ranch in the Texas Hill Country. 4. Sorted and packed supplies at the Friends of Ostomates Worldwide warehouse, then outside Chicago, Illinois, to be sent overseas. 5. Were camp hosts at a state park in Washington. 6. Volunteered in several capacities at rallies. Our motorhome has enabled us to make new friends, have fun experiences, and be of service.
Lang Secrest, F187589
FMCA Mail Forwarding
Future questions:
1. What is your favorite sound when sitting outside at a campsite (i.e. birds, food sizzling on the grill, friends’ conversations, etc.)? Please explain.
2. Describe a great seafood meal you’ve enjoyed while motorhoming.
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