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03-24-2014, 07:22 AM
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#1
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Rivet Master
2007 Interstate
Normal
, Illinois
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 18,051
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A Very Different Kind of Life
Thought I would start a new thread, to touch base here and there (en masse )with the friends and many supporters here, many of whom I have never met, who helped me through the recent loss of my beloved husband, Doug.
Some are asking if I am planning to sell the Interstate, do I plan to continue to travel, am I still going to be on AirForums, etc.
I don't intend to leave the Forums, but am not feeling very light-hearted right now nor interested in much reading or posting. I haven't crocheted a stitch, either, since this happened two weeks ago yesterday. Not one stitch. Many of you know I am a compulsive crochet-er, just can't do it right now. I was crocheting next to him on the couch when this happened.
I have no intention of selling the Interstate, and can see some destination traveling down the road....as opposed to the wandering Doug and I did together in retirement.
I have old and new friends I will still want to spend time with, people I want to meet, and rallies I don't intend to miss until I am dead myself or simply too old to do it. Favorite places such as Edisto Beach to return to (buried a shell from there with Doug), as well. See myself going back to favorite places and spending time there.
My grandchildren want to continue to go and do in the Interstate, as well, and we are planning to follow thru with the week-long trip to Wisconsin that we already had planned for this summer. We've talked about it, and plan to make it happen. They are big enough to be a great help, and really wonderful children.
My daughter and her husband are still here from NYC, they going back today. Death certificates should be here tomorrow, and there is still a lot to do.
So, I'm here, feeling rather self-centered, and would love to have any who wish to drop in on this thread to say howdy.
I'll be back here once or twice a day.
XO Maggie
__________________
🏡 🚐 Cherish and appreciate those you love. This moment could be your last.🌹🐚
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03-24-2014, 07:35 AM
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#2
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Figment of My Imagination
2012 Interstate Coach
From All Over
, More Than Anywhere Else
Join Date: Dec 2011
Posts: 10,868
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Good to hear from you, and good to hear that you're doing as well as can be expected. I kind of regret that when you guys stopped in at Middendorf's that one time I had other plans and couldn't make it. Didn't know then that I'd never again have the chance to meet both of you; hopefully I'll still have the chance to meet you, at least.
__________________
I thought getting old would take longer!
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03-24-2014, 08:02 AM
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#3
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Rivet Master
1972 31' Sovereign
Lexington
, Minnesota
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 3,982
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I wish I had words of wisdom for you, Maggie, but most anything I might say would sound trite, to say the least. You have a right to feel self-centered, I think. Your forum family will continue to be here for you!
Kay
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03-24-2014, 08:06 AM
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#4
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Rivet Master
2012 25' FB Eddie Bauer
Vintage Kin Owner
Virginia Beach
, Virginia
Join Date: Sep 2004
Posts: 7,801
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Howdy.... you are loved.
Take as much time as you need to grieve, but plan to attend a rally sometime this summer. If you're not quite up to going to one, just find a venue that will take a motley crew, and I'll be part of the caravan that brings a rally to a park near you.
Crocheting - throw away the piece you were working on. Start crocheting again when you find a project that will bring someone else joy - "going home" blankets for the nearest NICU unit might feel right.
Paula
__________________
Today is a gift, that's why they call it the present.
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03-24-2014, 08:18 AM
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#5
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Rivet Master
1966 22' Safari
Hilltop Lakes
, Texas
Join Date: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,764
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Maggie please remember that we're all praying for you as you transition to this new and different life. When the funeral is over, and all the people are gone, there are some lonely and sad times to get through. Cry as much as you need to. Learn to let go of the sadness and hang on to good memories. Take care of yourself.
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03-24-2014, 08:33 AM
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#6
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Rivet Master
2015 30' Classic
2012 28' International
Greensboro
, North Carolina
Join Date: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,708
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Yup, it really isn't the destination...it's the journey. So, you will find the crochet compulsion will return, as well as the wanderlust to go see and do. At first, the memories flood back with discomfort, then nostalgia, and then (believe it or not), you start to smile when you remember silly things. The best part is that you have FAMILY available. And all of us. Not shabby at all!
__________________
_________________
"SilverLeaf II" 2015 30' Classic
2019 RAM 2500 Limited 4x4 CC w/6.7L Cummins
ProPride 3P
AIR# 58452
WBCCI # 3430-Unit 21
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03-24-2014, 11:04 AM
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#7
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Rivet Master
2012 27' Flying Cloud
W
, New England
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 7,402
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I'm thinking it's ok to be self centered for a while.
Thinking of you.
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03-24-2014, 11:36 AM
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#8
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Rivet Master
1986 32' Excella
Currently Looking...
Canton
, Georgia
Join Date: Jun 2011
Posts: 1,342
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Maggie, we are all thinking of you. The travel with the grandchildren sound wonderful. We are just heartbroken for you about Doug.
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03-24-2014, 12:08 PM
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#9
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Rivet Master
2012 28' International
Currently Looking...
New Orleans
, Louisiana
Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 2,077
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Maggie, you are on the right track and the right direction. You are providing the way down a path many of us will travel in the future, you are doing it with grace and dignity and I thank you for that.
Jim
__________________
Jim N5TJZ Air# 174
2012 International Serenity 28
2005 Safari 25 SS Traded
1968 Globetrotter Sold
2011 F150 Ecoboost
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03-24-2014, 01:18 PM
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#10
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Rivet Master
1957 22' Caravanner
Port Hadlock
, Washington
Join Date: Dec 2008
Posts: 864
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Maggie, a little self centered stuff is just fine for now. Let the world take care of itself.
It's been just over two years now since my Pam passed away. Grief is a very powerful thing and it still makes an appearance for me every once in awhile, but I'm mostly ok now. It took me a long time to really care about anything again and I spent a lot of time just going through the motions of life. I don't think there's much control over the grieving process--it is in control. Early on it was hard to enjoy the cool places I went with my little Airstream as I just wished so much that Pam could be there to share it. Special places do finally win out, though. Things get better again.
Please give yourself the time you need to get through this.
-steve
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03-24-2014, 01:50 PM
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#11
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2 Rivet Member
2014 25' FB Flying Cloud
Rochester
, Minnesota
Join Date: Sep 2013
Posts: 76
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Hi Maggie,
We have never met, nor have we ever spoken. I do spend some time here in the forums however, and recently learned of your loss. While I have no words to express my feelings about how you must feel, I felt compelled to let you know that you and yours have been in my thoughts and prayers daily over the past couple of weeks.
The support that this "AirFamily" has shown for you and Doug makes me feel grateful for being here. Reminds me how blessed I am to be given the opportunity to feel the freedom that you and Doug shared on the road. I look forward to the memories that I will create with my family and friends. After all, the rest is just stuff and I would trade it all for the time spent with loved ones and share in all the memories that will be created.
My hope is that you hang onto each and every memory with a tight fist and one day in the future they bring a smile to your face and peace to your heart.
God bless.
__________________
-Carrie
If I only had a dollar for every time I got distracted, I wish I had a puppy.
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03-24-2014, 02:09 PM
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#12
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Rivet Master
2007 Interstate
Normal
, Illinois
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 18,051
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Forgot to mention that we have about $900 in donations to FaithWorks, just from the funeral and cards sent. Many other donations I've been told have been sent directly to them. Had an email from Wright Culpepper (one of the great names of all time) that they had received about $600 as of Friday.
Doug has spoiled me so. Such a jump-in-and-help guy, he ran the vacuum, dusted, took out the garbage, chopped vegetables, brought in the firewood, etc. Whatever needed to be done, he was there to help with it.
I was so used to just getting out of bed and on with my day that the bed hadn't been made since I've been home....til this morning, when I made myself go back in and take care of it.
Am signed up for and planning to attend the Moraine View rally in June, which is just 20 minutes from our house. Would have been our 5th consecutive year at that rally, and a place where I will feel very comfortable.
A new normal, as they say.
I'd rather not, but here it is.
Thanks to you all,
Maggie
__________________
🏡 🚐 Cherish and appreciate those you love. This moment could be your last.🌹🐚
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03-24-2014, 02:52 PM
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#13
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Rivet Master
2010 25' FB Flying Cloud
Davenport
, Iowa
Join Date: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,145
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Hi Maggie,
Thinkin' 'bout you, camping at Moraine View, laughs, sharing knitting/crochet items and cabitzing about everything else. Hoping to see you at MV this year to continue our conversations. June is several months away yet time seems to pass very quickly in these golden years. Dana(part of airtandem)
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03-24-2014, 03:12 PM
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#14
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Rivet Master
2007 25' Safari FB SE
2000 30' Excella
1999 30' Excella 1000
Low Country
, South Carolina
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 820
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Maggie,
This is going to be an enormous change for you so don't expect too much of yourself. One foot in front of the other and so it goes. One day at a time. Try to find something special about each day. Let it be the sunshine, a warm breeze, a smile on a little girl, your pet. Whatever you can get a moment of enjoyment from. Take a deep breath. Its ok to cry, to smile, and you will always have wonderful memories from your many years together. Remember we are all here for you.
You are a special lady and I send you a big hug.
See you in the not too distant future.
Kate
__________________
StreamNTyme
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03-24-2014, 05:31 PM
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#15
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Overland Adventurer
1991 34' Excella
2009 34' Panamerica
Telluride
, Colorado
Join Date: May 2012
Posts: 2,476
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You are living my biggest fear. Loosing my everything person... My soulmate.
I live every day like our first and maybe last.
Best wishes to you in finding your north again.
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03-24-2014, 05:55 PM
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#16
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Retired.
Currently Looking...
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, At Large
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 21,276
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Howdy, Maggie.
I've typed in a lot of stuff in this little box, and then untyped it. What I can say is, our door is always open.
What has happened to you has reaffirmed my determination to make sure Marie is able to hitch up the trailer, break camp, dump tanks, and be able to at least drive the truck and trailer home. She doesn't know it yet, but she's going to be going through a refresher course this weekend...
__________________
Meddle not in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy, and taste good with ketchup.
Terry
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03-24-2014, 06:07 PM
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#17
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Rivet Master
2014 31' Classic
2015 23' International
2013 25' FB International
Apache Junction
, Arizona
Join Date: Sep 2012
Posts: 6,214
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Maggie:
Like many others, we are thinking of you and praying for your strength needed in the days ahead.
You were very fortunate to have been instructed and shared in the mechanical side of the camping experience. When I get our trailer back from the solar installation, I plan to let my wife begin the share the mechanical experience starting with just driving the big truck by itself and processing forward.
Every day is a gift, and I want to be sure to keep that mind set and keep loved ones in mind.
__________________
WBCCI Life Member 5123, AIR 70341, 4CU, WD9EMC
TV - 2012 Dodge 2500 4x4 Cummins HO, automatic, Centramatics, Kelderman level ride airbag suspension, bed shell
2014 31' Classic w/ twin beds, 50 amp service, 1000 watt solar system, Centramatics, Tuson TPMS, 12" disc brakes, 16" tires & wheels
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03-24-2014, 06:15 PM
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#18
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Site Team
2007 30' Classic S/O
Somewhere
, South Carolina
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 6,436
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Maggie,
OK, so what is the next DO bread recipe? Sorry we can't see you and Doug demonstrate the loaf this weekend, sure was looking forward to tasting that loaf.
If you've gotten to know Maggie, Doug, DO bread and crocheting were pretty special for her.
Nothing but respect and hugs from here Maggie.
Gary
__________________
S/OS #001 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 5.9L 6 Speed
16" Michelins, Hi Spec Wheels, Max Brake, Dexter 4 Piston Disc Brakes, Carslile Actuator, Equal-I-Zer, Dill TPMS. Campfire cook. BMV-712. DEMCO 21K Lb Cast Iron coupler
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03-24-2014, 06:33 PM
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#19
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Rivet Master
2007 Interstate
Normal
, Illinois
Join Date: Jan 2009
Posts: 18,051
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Terry, one of the reasons we wanted a Class B was so that I could drive it in the event of an emergency.....thinking broken leg, arm, etc. I always told Doug nothing better happen to him if we were in the mountains, as they would have to send someone to get him and also someone to drive the Interstate down. I have a terrible fear of heights.
I was so flustered when I went back to the campground to get the RV (the owner of A Big Wheel RV Park came to the hospital to get me), then follow the ambulance from Saint Marys to Brunswick, that I couldn't have done much even tho I knew how. Doug was alive, and I was glad, as I hadn't yet digested the ER doc's implication that he was not sure we had saved much after 30+ minutes of CPR.
Fellow campers unhooked everything and got things inside, then topped my propane tank off to make sure the frig would run. Such wonderful people, one of whom was a nurse who took over chest compressions, and another kept Lily til my son could get out to pick her up.
Had in the mail when I got home a refund for my last night at the campground, and a note of sympathy/prayers. Me who packed up and pulled out about 6pm. They didn't have to give a refund, and I certainly didn't expect one.
The people who own and run this campground are the reason we go back there. Good, kind, wonderful folks, reflected in their care of this lovely place and interactions with their guests. The place was full up when we were there, not surprising.
Everyone should know the basics, that is true, but in an emergency you're likely to need help. Your brain isn't working properly and your hands just don't do what they're supposed to.
My wonderful son, his wife and their 3 sweet punkins took the train to Chicago for a few days (spring break here), so I have their little Milo as well as Lily.
I feel like the dog whisperer....every time I move in the house I have the two of them, tails awaggin', at my heels. There were some turf issues at bedtime last night. Not sure what the issue was, but some snarling and barking from alpha Lily. They generally get along very well. Maybe she thought Milo wanted her bed, but she wouldn't let him get to his. Finally moved his and they settled down for the night.
Maggie
__________________
🏡 🚐 Cherish and appreciate those you love. This moment could be your last.🌹🐚
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03-24-2014, 06:58 PM
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#20
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Rivet Master
1997 34' Limited
1970 27' Overlander
South of Atlanta
, Georgia
Join Date: Sep 2009
Posts: 1,709
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Maggie,
I don't have the correct words of comfort, but know that you remain in my families prayers and that we hope to meet you one day.
__________________
Craig and Carol
1997 34' Excella 1000
1970 27' Overlander, International
2009 Ford F150 5.4L
ProPride hitch with 1400# bars
AIR 41028
TAC GA-8
WBCCI 10199
Past President Southeastern Camping Unit (12)
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