We have been on the road, as they say, for about 3 years now. For myself coming from a job in radio media where everything is set around the clock this left style is heaven on earth. Both Cheryl and I had a life style that was quite often involved with the lives of people. When we decieded to take this on we were not sure how this might pan out. Well the outcome has been great, no schedules, no time frames, we eat better because we eat when our bodies say too not some silly clock. The life style is further enhanced when we remember the people we have met.
At the end of the day it's the people we meet that quite often makes our day. Having said all of that there other other side of our travels, our relationship. To say its great without a problem would be not telling the truth but what has happened is that we now deal with the issues better when they arise.
Our families from both sides have different opinions of what we are doing but in the main they support us. This comes about mainly by keeping across them via Facebook and ringing them from time to time. I know many of you may not like the Facebook thing but it keeps the family door open. We are travelling Australia at a state a year a year, we return to Melb at the end of each year to catch up with kids and grandkids. We know its different to many but that's the way we have chosen. In time we will change it by travelling to places of interest with and others we have met on the road.
So there it is, our current lifestyle. It's not everyone's idea but it works for us. The places we have been to and the people we have met has changed our understanding of what's important and in the end we could not think of anything else that we are currently doing.
Sorry it's a bit long but the questions were put out there.
Brian and Cheryl.
-- Edited by briche on Saturday 27th of July 2013 09:58:17 PM
GaryKelly said
12:14 AM Jul 28, 2013
This is your shrink speaking...
Actually, I've often wondered what effect life on the road permanently has had on people's personalities and character. I have a feeling that after a year or two on the road I'll be a different person in many ways... perhaps more outgoing, less prone to anxiety, more adventurous, maybe even more caring and generous towards other people. I'd love to know what some of the more experienced GNs have to say about changes they may have undergone as a consequence of the nomad lifestyle... and how those changes compare to the kind of person they were prior to hitting the road.
Also, I'd be interested to know if friends and relatives have remarked on any changes that may have occurred. I'm looking forward to responses with great interest (and curiosity).
freehazzas said
12:31 AM Jul 28, 2013
I am def more laid back and open to meeting new people. Less stress as well and i prob have more patience than i used to have.
I still dont tolerate fools and idiots and prob have less tolerance for kids as now we are nomads we dont want kids around, full stop.
But over all we are happier, healthier and like to keep it all simple. We rely on nobody but ourselves.
freehazzas said
12:33 AM Jul 28, 2013
Oh a trip back home for xmas did have everybody saying how well we looked, so i guess it must rub off on our physical looks as well, not just mental, but also could have had a lot to do with the great Qld tan we were sporting. Lol my best friend said i looked 10 years younger, even letting my hair go grey. Lol
pambaz said
01:08 AM Jul 28, 2013
I'd say we are far more relaxed and stress free. We socialise more than we do at home and love chatting to all the interesting people out there. Don't think about what we are going to do tomorrow just go and have fun. Walk a lot more too. Don't plan too much either just know what direction we are going.
We always have family and friends tell us how healthy and relaxed we look. I came back from a long trip with white hair ,I don't know who got the bigger shock me or the family to see how white I really was after years of colouring. Will never go back to that again so much easier. Another thing not to worry about!
We also seem to have more patience . The family have noticed that.
Pam
valnrob said
01:18 AM Jul 28, 2013
freehazzas wrote:
I am def more laid back and open to meeting new people. Less stress as well and i prob have more patience than i used to have. I still dont tolerate fools and idiots and prob have less tolerance for kids as now we are nomads we dont want kids around, full stop. But over all we are happier, healthier and like to keep it all simple. We rely on nobody but ourselves.
Personally I think the comments about no kids allowed is a shame. I noticed some other older people have the same view. I never ever want to be in that same boat. I never want to forget the joy and pleasure children give, Please don't get so set in those ways that we lose tolerance with others be they children or anyone of any age. Another thing, if w we end up sick and frail it will be those children that will have the 'pleasure' of nursing you
valnrob said
01:25 AM Jul 28, 2013
We have looked forward to this lifestyle since we were 30ish.. It's a great life, love meeting new people and seeing new places. It's a new lease of life, relaxed and happy.
Cheers
chrisnchris said
01:43 AM Jul 28, 2013
What a shame freehazzas . Children are precious . I couldn't imagine what our lives would be like
without our grandies , but each to their own I suppose
Cheers
Happywanderer said
01:57 AM Jul 28, 2013
More relaxed, less stressed, able to handle difficult situations more easily than I did when bringing upy own kids. Now calm when dealing with the grandkids.
Maybe knowing I will be back on the road in no time makes it all so much easier to deal with the stressful times.
Life seems so simple without a house and bills to worry about.
freehazzas said
04:09 AM Jul 28, 2013
I do not aplogise for not wanting kids around. We chose not to have our own kids, perhaps thats why we have been able to retire and travel full time in our 40s, so not having my own, i detest having to put up with other people kids miss behaving, non respecting brats on my travels. Each to their own.
We have made our own provisions for our old age looking after not to have to rely on family. I dont think its a shame at all. This is our life and ours to live for us, not other people. All you peopl that take it for granted that your families are going to be there in your old age to look after you, sorry many of you will get a big shock when push comes to shove.
The ammount of older people we hear complain as they have to go home to look after the grandkids while their kids go on hols over seas ect, um how many of those trips did you get, who looked after your kids all the time. Ill bet you did and your still doing it when you should be enjoying whats left of our lives.
Now to me thats a shame.
JMO.
Duh said
04:31 AM Jul 28, 2013
Hmmmm......I can see people have different views and very strong feelings on kids/grandkids, perhaps we should accept that some people are children orientated and some aren't, as long as people are happy whatever their choices and views/feelings.
I bought up 4 kids as a solo working parent, and while I love my kids and grandkids, now enjoy the freedom to be "childless" when I want to be in my travels etc. I spent many years locked into looking after my kids and now want to make up for the years I was restricted in what I could and could not do. I don't know if anyone can understand that. And yes, there are adult children parents who take advantage of their parents as "baby sitters" so they can do their own thing. If the grandies are happy doing that fine, that is the main thing, as long as all are happy with that arrangement. I don't think we should condemn anyone for their point of view and choices, whatever that may be.
PS: I don't want to compare dogs with kids, but sometimes there are similarities in that some people like dogs, others don't. For the record I do like dogs and think they are better than many humans I have come across.
herbie said
04:52 AM Jul 28, 2013
Gary, I can only answer your question from both my wife and myself. our life is a whole lot hectic,than when we were both trying to keep a house and garden in tip top condition.My wife was working full time and a was a fly in fly worker,so was only back home for a week every two weeks,and it starts to get the better of you after years of this type of life style. So once the youngest of our three children went off to make it in the big world we said right now it is our turn to go do what we want for our self. My wife was not sure if she would cope with type of life so we locked the house up for six months,just in case she wanted to head back to the house, but only three months into living this life she just said one day ....let us let the house go .So that was it. Our health has never been better,but in saying that we still are under the 60 mark and they tell me that's when some of the aches and pains start to creep in. Stress is less regarding our own personal life, but it can come from a lot of outside sources (a lot of funny & strange people appear to use caravan parks believe me )So always aware of who is camped close by.I guess the only down side of this life is if you are a person who loves his man cave that has to get put into storage or sold... I miss my motor bikes like hell,as the only time I get to use them is when we base our self in WA as they are stored at my daughters house ...Another aspect of our choice to live on the road at the age we decided to do it, is that when most other people are thinking about it we have done it and probably ready to go back to some kind of abode that doesn't move.
But the people you meet and the friendships you forge along the way on your journey will be the biggest bonus of all.
The only thing is to go for a few short trips away before you hand back your lease on your house you rent and see how it pans out for you...My wife has a friend who her and husband sold up in hast and regrated it only six months into it. They both just got sick of it for many reasons. So they had to buy back into the house market but in another area and a much smaller house as house prices had risen that much in six months in the area they used to live in... but at least you have your house on your back and if you found you get sick of travelling for awhile just park up at a little country caravan park and smell the roses...There is some real great caravan parks in small country towns ,we find the bigger the town the lower the standard and quality the parks appear to be. And you would be able to get rent assistance I am sure.
Regards Herbie.
.
Duh said
05:08 AM Jul 28, 2013
Gary, one thing that will not change (except perhaps to get better) is your sense of humour, whatever your situation I am sure you will prevail and cope well.
Happy travels mate wherever you go!
chaslib said
12:47 PM Jul 28, 2013
We are only a few weeks into our travels and loving it! Love the freedom to do what we want when we want. this is our time and while we still have our health and can string a sentence together, we intend to make the most of it. I belive it is actually harder on our kids as we are a very close family and they are having adjustment issues with our not always being able to pick up the phone when they call. During a period of no phone or internet service, we eventually got a message from the kids on Facebook ....Quote. "Where are you parents? ..... Have hillbillies stolen you??" Unquote. Yes, we do miss our kids and grandkids, but we don't miss the dramas and problems that seem to be a part of today's generation. I dont condemn anyone for preferring to spend most of their time without children around ... Lets be honest, many of the younger generation do lack discipline .... If my grandkids were brought up without parental guidance and discipline, I would be traveling in Europe or Asia rather than here close our family in Australia.
Regardless of what phase of your life you are going through "we only get out of life, what we are prepared to put into it" ....... As for us, we are shoveling as much as possible into it!
sandsmere said
01:47 PM Jul 28, 2013
Gary , I reckon you will love it .
If you have the occasional anxiety problem , the lifestyle certainly helps . You don't have to be anywhere you don't want to be
or do what you don't want to do . Your time is completely your own .
As far as kids and pets go , that's all personal stuff . There's no right or wrong about it . We are all different .
Just get out there mate and do it !
JulieM said
02:19 PM Jul 28, 2013
I have children and grand children but when I'm travelling and if kids are noisy or misbehaving, I think 'at least they're not mine to concern myself with'.
Gary just do it. It has given me a confidence I've never had. Cheers JulieM
Ontos45 said
09:05 PM Jul 28, 2013
JulieM wrote:
I have children and grand children but when I'm travelling and if kids are noisy or misbehaving, I think 'at least they're not mine to concern myself with'.
Gary just do it. It has given me a confidence I've never had. Cheers JulieM
Just remember mate that things will go wrong on your trip, Murphy's Law, but just ride with the punches. Hope to meet you on the road 1 year.
About a decade ago we spent two years on the road.....and a fabulous two years it was, health improved, our relationship was great, we ate well, met lots of terrific people who were happy to share knowledge and experience, moved on when it was cold etc, much as has been said by others. Due to horrible circumstances we have not been able to travel in the van for the last year or so BUT that is soon coming to an end and we can't wait. To have that life style back again will be great, enjoying lots of planning and dreaming and discussing at the moment but hope we meet you, Gary and other GNs on the road soon. Go for it!
cheers Capricorn
George said
09:45 PM Jul 28, 2013
GaryKelly wrote:
This is your shrink speaking...
Actually, I've often wondered what effect life on the road permanently has had on people's personalities and character. I have a feeling that after a year or two on the road I'll be a different person in many ways... perhaps more outgoing, less prone to anxiety, more adventurous, maybe even more caring and generous towards other people. I'd love to know what some of the more experienced GNs have to say about changes they may have undergone as a consequence of the nomad lifestyle... and how those changes compare to the kind of person they were prior to hitting the road.
Also, I'd be interested to know if friends and relatives have remarked on any changes that may have occurred. I'm looking forward to responses with great interest (and curiosity).
Hi Gary
Have you considered going on the road full time, if it might make you a "different person in many ways...perhaps more outgoing, less prone to anxiety, more adventurous,maybe even more caring and generous towards other people",
what do you think???
Sincerely,
George
-- Edited by geojen on Sunday 28th of July 2013 09:45:37 PM
Beth54 said
01:50 AM Jul 29, 2013
Thanks for starting this thread Gary. I too am curious.
I'm a partime nomad for several reasons, but mainly because of health issues. So I don't have the experience of the full timers, but I'm learning.
For me, it's almost a spiritual experience. I love the road trip. Driving along seeing the changing landscape. Freedom camping in the wide open spaces, with some trees around, and hopefully some water, a river, lake or ocean. A peaceful place where I'll walk amongst the trees, breath in that beautiful fresh air, or just sit and watch, or read. Maybe chat to a few around me. Or not!
I guess to sum it up, I just feel peaceful and relaxed when I'm out there.
The dog lady said
06:37 AM Jul 29, 2013
valnrob wrote:
Personally I think the comments about no kids allowed is a shame. I noticed some other older people have the same view. I never ever want to be in that same boat. I never want to forget the joy and pleasure children give, Please don't get so set in those ways that we lose tolerance with others be they children or anyone of any age. Another thing, if w we end up sick and frail it will be those children that will have the 'pleasure' of nursing you
I'm with you Valnrob, since retiring (and becoming a grandmother) I have a lot more patience with kids. But even before, when I didn't much care to have kids around me, I've always considered that we need the freshness and wonder that children exhibit to keep the world vibrant. Imagine living on a planet peopled only by old farts! And some of the threads lately have me thinking there are a lot of "grumpy old men and women" who seem to have escaped from that TV show (where they belong)
Mike C said
08:20 AM Jul 29, 2013
based on our longest trip of 5 months I can honestly say that.
I became far more relaxed. Slept much better. Became fitter. Lost approx 8 KG without trying. Laughed more. met many new friends. saw many amazing sights. learn a lot about out country and it history. I am sure that in many ways I was a changed man whilst travelling. Every one commented on how well we looked when we got home.
So yep I agree that travelling can change one for the better..
cheers
Mike
-- Edited by Mike C on Monday 29th of July 2013 08:20:41 AM
Gerty Dancer said
05:07 PM Jul 29, 2013
Agree with Mike C... had a great time on our longest trip of 6months. Even so, I was glad to get home.
Others have different experiences, I have friends who sold up their farm, bought a 5th wheeler and Ford 250, and were planning be on the road for at least 2 years, maybe more if they were enjoying themselves. They lasted only 11 months, and bought another house back near their home-town. Their main problem was not that they didn't like the travelling lifestyle, but there were so many problems with the 5th wheeler that they lost confidence, never knew what would go wrong next. Nowadays they have a smaller motorhome and go away for a month or two at a time.
Beth54 said
05:34 PM Jul 29, 2013
I agree about the vehicle Gerty. If you're not comfortable with your rig, it can put you right off.
GaryKelly said
12:12 AM Jul 30, 2013
I think you've about summed it up, Mike C... and you too Beth54. I guess I'll have to experience it for myself to really know, but a lot of the answers on this thread explain why travellers are so friendly and approachable (unlike many of their stressed city cousins). I'm sure the GN lifestyle will suit me.
I think you're right about a sense of humor, Vic... it comes in handy when things don't go according to plan. Tolerance is another word I've seen scattered throughout this thread. I'm a pretty easy going bloke and I can't see myself getting upset about generators or kids. Anyway, that remains to be seen. I see the doc in Sydney next week and am hoping for some good news about the operation and FINALLY getting dentures fitted!
We have been on the road, as they say, for about 3 years now. For myself coming from a job in radio media where everything is set around the clock this left style is heaven on earth. Both Cheryl and I had a life style that was quite often involved with the lives of people. When we decieded to take this on we were not sure how this might pan out. Well the outcome has been great, no schedules, no time frames, we eat better because we eat when our bodies say too not some silly clock. The life style is further enhanced when we remember the people we have met.
At the end of the day it's the people we meet that quite often makes our day. Having said all of that there other other side of our travels, our relationship. To say its great without a problem would be not telling the truth but what has happened is that we now deal with the issues better when they arise.
Our families from both sides have different opinions of what we are doing but in the main they support us. This comes about mainly by keeping across them via Facebook and ringing them from time to time. I know many of you may not like the Facebook thing but it keeps the family door open. We are travelling Australia at a state a year a year, we return to Melb at the end of each year to catch up with kids and grandkids. We know its different to many but that's the way we have chosen. In time we will change it by travelling to places of interest with and others we have met on the road.
So there it is, our current lifestyle. It's not everyone's idea but it works for us. The places we have been to and the people we have met has changed our understanding of what's important and in the end we could not think of anything else that we are currently doing.
Sorry it's a bit long but the questions were put out there.
Brian and Cheryl.
-- Edited by briche on Saturday 27th of July 2013 09:58:17 PM
This is your shrink speaking...
Actually, I've often wondered what effect life on the road permanently has had on people's personalities and character. I have a feeling that after a year or two on the road I'll be a different person in many ways... perhaps more outgoing, less prone to anxiety, more adventurous, maybe even more caring and generous towards other people. I'd love to know what some of the more experienced GNs have to say about changes they may have undergone as a consequence of the nomad lifestyle... and how those changes compare to the kind of person they were prior to hitting the road.
Also, I'd be interested to know if friends and relatives have remarked on any changes that may have occurred. I'm looking forward to responses with great interest (and curiosity).
I still dont tolerate fools and idiots and prob have less tolerance for kids as now we are nomads we dont want kids around, full stop.
But over all we are happier, healthier and like to keep it all simple. We rely on nobody but ourselves.
We always have family and friends tell us how healthy and relaxed we look. I came back from a long trip with white hair ,I don't know who got the bigger shock me or the family to see how white I really was after years of colouring. Will never go back to that again so much easier. Another thing not to worry about!
We also seem to have more patience . The family have noticed that.
Pam
Personally I think the comments about no kids allowed is a shame. I noticed some other older people have the same view. I never ever want to be in that same boat. I never want to forget the joy and pleasure children give, Please don't get so set in those ways that we lose tolerance with others be they children or anyone of any age. Another thing, if w we end up sick and frail it will be those children that will have the 'pleasure' of nursing you
Cheers
without our grandies , but each to their own I suppose
Cheers
Maybe knowing I will be back on the road in no time makes it all so much easier to deal with the stressful times.
Life seems so simple without a house and bills to worry about.
We have made our own provisions for our old age looking after not to have to rely on family. I dont think its a shame at all. This is our life and ours to live for us, not other people. All you peopl that take it for granted that your families are going to be there in your old age to look after you, sorry many of you will get a big shock when push comes to shove.
The ammount of older people we hear complain as they have to go home to look after the grandkids while their kids go on hols over seas ect, um how many of those trips did you get, who looked after your kids all the time. Ill bet you did and your still doing it when you should be enjoying whats left of our lives.
Now to me thats a shame.
JMO.
Hmmmm......I can see people have different views and very strong feelings on kids/grandkids, perhaps we should accept that some people are children orientated and some aren't, as long as people are happy whatever their choices and views/feelings.
I bought up 4 kids as a solo working parent, and while I love my kids and grandkids, now enjoy the freedom to be "childless" when I want to be in my travels etc. I spent many years locked into looking after my kids and now want to make up for the years I was restricted in what I could and could not do. I don't know if anyone can understand that. And yes, there are adult children parents who take advantage of their parents as "baby sitters" so they can do their own thing. If the grandies are happy doing that fine, that is the main thing, as long as all are happy with that arrangement. I don't think we should condemn anyone for their point of view and choices, whatever that may be.
PS: I don't want to compare dogs with kids, but sometimes there are similarities in that some people like dogs, others don't. For the record I do like dogs and think they are better than many humans I have come across.
Gary, I can only answer your question from both my wife and myself. our life is a whole lot hectic,than when we were both trying to keep a house and garden in tip top condition.My wife was working full time and a was a fly in fly worker,so was only back home for a week every two weeks,and it starts to get the better of you after years of this type of life style. So once the youngest of our three children went off to make it in the big world we said right now it is our turn to go do what we want for our self. My wife was not sure if she would cope with type of life so we locked the house up for six months,just in case she wanted to head back to the house, but only three months into living this life she just said one day ....let us let the house go .So that was it. Our health has never been better,but in saying that we still are under the 60 mark and they tell me that's when some of the aches and pains start to creep in. Stress is less regarding our own personal life, but it can come from a lot of outside sources (a lot of funny & strange people appear to use caravan parks believe me )So always aware of who is camped close by.I guess the only down side of this life is if you are a person who loves his man cave that has to get put into storage or sold... I miss my motor bikes like hell,as the only time I get to use them is when we base our self in WA as they are stored at my daughters house ...Another aspect of our choice to live on the road at the age we decided to do it, is that when most other people are thinking about it we have done it and probably ready to go back to some kind of abode that doesn't move.
But the people you meet and the friendships you forge along the way on your journey will be the biggest bonus of all.
The only thing is to go for a few short trips away before you hand back your lease on your house you rent and see how it pans out for you...My wife has a friend who her and husband sold up in hast and regrated it only six months into it. They both just got sick of it for many reasons. So they had to buy back into the house market but in another area and a much smaller house as house prices had risen that much in six months in the area they used to live in... but at least you have your house on your back and if you found you get sick of travelling for awhile just park up at a little country caravan park and smell the roses...There is some real great caravan parks in small country towns ,we find the bigger the town the lower the standard and quality the parks appear to be. And you would be able to get rent assistance I am sure.
Regards Herbie.
.
Gary, one thing that will not change (except perhaps to get better) is your sense of humour, whatever your situation I am sure you will prevail and cope well.
Happy travels mate wherever you go!
We are only a few weeks into our travels and loving it! Love the freedom to do what we want when we want. this is our time and while we still have our health and can string a sentence together, we intend to make the most of it. I belive it is actually harder on our kids as we are a very close family and they are having adjustment issues with our not always being able to pick up the phone when they call. During a period of no phone or internet service, we eventually got a message from the kids on Facebook ....Quote. "Where are you parents? ..... Have hillbillies stolen you??" Unquote. Yes, we do miss our kids and grandkids, but we don't miss the dramas and problems that seem to be a part of today's generation. I dont condemn anyone for preferring to spend most of their time without children around ... Lets be honest, many of the younger generation do lack discipline .... If my grandkids were brought up without parental guidance and discipline, I would be traveling in Europe or Asia rather than here close our family in Australia.
Regardless of what phase of your life you are going through "we only get out of life, what we are prepared to put into it" ....... As for us, we are shoveling as much as possible into it!
Gary , I reckon you will love it .
If you have the occasional anxiety problem , the lifestyle certainly helps . You don't have to be anywhere you don't want to be
or do what you don't want to do . Your time is completely your own .
As far as kids and pets go , that's all personal stuff . There's no right or wrong about it . We are all different .
Just get out there mate and do it !
I have children and grand children but when I'm travelling and if kids are noisy or misbehaving, I think 'at least they're not mine to concern myself with'.
Gary just do it. It has given me a confidence I've never had. Cheers JulieM
Just remember mate that things will go wrong on your trip, Murphy's Law, but just ride with the punches. Hope to meet you on the road 1 year.
AS to kids...see pic.
Peter
About a decade ago we spent two years on the road.....and a fabulous two years it was, health improved, our relationship was great, we ate well, met lots of terrific people who were happy to share knowledge and experience, moved on when it was cold etc, much as has been said by others. Due to horrible circumstances we have not been able to travel in the van for the last year or so BUT that is soon coming to an end and we can't wait. To have that life style back again will be great, enjoying lots of planning and dreaming and discussing at the moment but hope we meet you, Gary and other GNs on the road soon. Go for it!
cheers Capricorn
-- Edited by geojen on Sunday 28th of July 2013 09:45:37 PM
Thanks for starting this thread Gary. I too am curious.
I'm a partime nomad for several reasons, but mainly because of health issues. So I don't have the experience of the full timers, but I'm learning.
For me, it's almost a spiritual experience. I love the road trip. Driving along seeing the changing landscape. Freedom camping in the wide open spaces, with some trees around, and hopefully some water, a river, lake or ocean. A peaceful place where I'll walk amongst the trees, breath in that beautiful fresh air, or just sit and watch, or read. Maybe chat to a few around me. Or not!
I guess to sum it up, I just feel peaceful and relaxed when I'm out there.
I'm with you Valnrob, since retiring (and becoming a grandmother) I have a lot more patience with kids. But even before, when I didn't much care to have kids around me, I've always considered that we need the freshness and wonder that children exhibit to keep the world vibrant. Imagine living on a planet peopled only by old farts! And some of the threads lately have me thinking there are a lot of "grumpy old men and women" who seem to have escaped from that TV show (where they belong)
based on our longest trip of 5 months I can honestly say that.
I became far more relaxed.
Slept much better.
Became fitter.
Lost approx 8 KG without trying.
Laughed more.
met many new friends.
saw many amazing sights.
learn a lot about out country and it history.
I am sure that in many ways I was a changed man whilst travelling.
Every one commented on how well we looked when we got home.
So yep I agree that travelling can change one for the better..
cheers
Mike
-- Edited by Mike C on Monday 29th of July 2013 08:20:41 AM
Others have different experiences, I have friends who sold up their farm, bought a 5th wheeler and Ford 250, and were planning be on the road for at least 2 years, maybe more if they were enjoying themselves. They lasted only 11 months, and bought another house back near their home-town. Their main problem was not that they didn't like the travelling lifestyle, but there were so many problems with the 5th wheeler that they lost confidence, never knew what would go wrong next. Nowadays they have a smaller motorhome and go away for a month or two at a time.
I agree about the vehicle Gerty. If you're not comfortable with your rig, it can put you right off.
I think you're right about a sense of humor, Vic... it comes in handy when things don't go according to plan. Tolerance is another word I've seen scattered throughout this thread. I'm a pretty easy going bloke and I can't see myself getting upset about generators or kids. Anyway, that remains to be seen. I see the doc in Sydney next week and am hoping for some good news about the operation and FINALLY getting dentures fitted!
Thanks for all the comments, folks!