Has anyone considered downsizing in these tough times?

[ScrapIrony-2]

Whyled,
PM me...I can't seem to connect on your post...I've had similar catastrophic events that turned into a great source of lemonade...we are doing what we are, now, because of it, and LOVE it...things have a way of working out, no matter how you try to improve them and screw it up...go with the flow, trust your instincts, ask for help when you need it(HARD ONE), and laugh everytime you get the chance...
mike

[siouxcitygro]

Indyanne, I can feel what you are going through!! The only thing I can say is, my heart is so with you!! I had the same situation,but a different ending, my husband was killed by a non-insured, non-liscensed, drunk driver. If you need to ever vent, I have been there. My brother also was in an alcohol related crash on his bike. He did not survive, I am sure thinking about you! God Bless!!
I know after a tough day, I come here and love hearing all the talk and wonderful people,I don't even have an airstream and they are awesome, (I have a cousin) I am looking forward to the rally in Branson, or the one here, it restores your faith in things, just being a part of this possitive group. Can you tell I just love these people?

[Lily&Me]

We have always lived in a small home and are spending retirement traveling for 8-10 weeks at a time, several times a year, in a 22' Airstream Interstate. We are of modest income, but enjoy nice surroundings. Staying small allows us to have a very nicely appointed home, and a very nicely appointed RV.

Living in a small space quickly teaches you to keep unnecessary items weeded out, and to use every available inch of storage wisely. We didn't use our between-the-benches table in our rear-sleeper, so took it out and use the space for storage. Extra clothing and shoes are in large plastic bags, stuck into empty spots throughout our rig. We have found many lightweight kitchen organization items at the Container Store, also get rid of outer food packaging whenever possible. Bed pillows are covered and sit on the rear benches during the day. We have good quality, black rear-seat-organizers from Duluth behind the passenger seat, where we keep instruction manuals, charge cords, etc., and carry a small laptop. We had a carpenter make racks to match our interior, for books, magazines, cookbooks, etc., we put hooks inside our single closet and behind the driver's seat, and added an adjustable pole shelf unit to a bathroom corner. We are very comfortable on our long trips, and have everything we need.

We also prefer to travel backroads, at 50-55 mph, and average 25 mpg with the diesel engine in our Interstate. We boondock occasionally, but stay in campsites most nights at $20 per nite or less. We like State and National parks and use Passport America. We prepare most of our own meals, but eat out several times each week. We have found the cost of travel in the Interstate to be much less than we expected, and consistent with our spend less-do more philosophy.

Life in a small RV isn't for everyone, but it works very well for us. We are not very techno-savvy, so are not posting photos with this, but would be happy to answer any questions anyone considering downsizing might have.

We are enjoying the forums, but still doing more reading than responding!

[Silver Threads]

Found a new one on CNN. At least they chose the right camper! From Beverly Hills to shoveling manure on a farm - CNN.com