Dad lost his job, so this family lives on the road

No doubt! The new dust bowl saga. But the nice thing is we have laws to protect women and children now.

Joleen just needs to file for a divorce, take the kids, the camper and get a restraining order on Dave. Then, in court, they will impute his wages to be what he was earning, and give her and the kids 30% of it. Problem solved! Everybody now has enough money. Except for him of course. The dead-beat dad can end up in jail for all we care.

Why, Justice?, does Joleen need to file for divorce? She obviously loves her husband and is not real unhappy about the lifestyle they've chosen!! And as for 30% of his former earnings, well it's more than a little impossible to get blood from a turnip!

$300 a month is $10 per day for:

Gas, food for 5, lodging at campgrounds, septic dump fees, propane, insurance... you get the point, it's all Bullsh!t... They want to do this AND get sympathy...IN REALITY, they are spending more than what they were before and then a LUMPY sum on top of that, while running...Oh yeah...just minus the mortgage
Selling the $75K truck and $90K trailer at half price would have paid their mortgage for nearly 3 years. This is just a deceptive way to romanticize their lifestyle and blame it on the economy. There is real people out there, hurting real bad and having little options to do anything about it, THESE folks are not in such a situation, they just make a good story, anyone thinking that this is the "Real saga of the dust bowl era to me." is a real f'ing MORON...

This was the point of my post...

And as for 30% of his former earnings, well it's more than a little impossible to get blood from a turnip!

Sound absurd, but it happens EVERY day. She just needs to get mad at him once for taking the wrong turn. The courts will do the rest. Sounds good in theory, but when placed against a real-life scenario, it shows just how absurd it is, even if they bring out their battle cry of, "it is for the children." In this case, no one would be helped and everyone would be hurt. This is the reality many more have to live with, than those taking to the road because they lost their job.

Long Beach; I also find it hard to buy the 300 dollars per month. Unless he paid off the RV and truck, and the 300 covers insurance and his utilities...propane. I began traveling the road over a year ago, besides being able to travel the country I was amazed at how I can get along with such few things.

I am single, so the day I looked around my 4,000 square foot house, with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, 2 car garage, luxury car and truck, bike...etc. I told myself I am tired of living for posessions. When I got rid of 90% of my clothes it was freeing, and I am having a blast.

You don't have to always use campgrounds, I often just pull off the road on Federal property, along a river or lake, flip the switch and the slideouts expand to offer more room. The only thing I don't have in the 5th wheeler is a washer and dryer. But I only need to do laundry once every 10 days, so laundromats are find 3 times a month.

I don't think the family was looking for attention, certainly aren't going to get it from me. But it was nice to hear about them downsizing and realizing what is important in life.

Why people are bring up a divorce for them is beyond me, I guess some people hate to see other's happy. Shame.

I love seeing others happy. And I hope it works for them. I was bringing it up because "Dads who lose their jobs" usually end up in court, not on the open road. This story gets the attention while millions of families suffer...and our government reports how great they are for fixing it for women and children, when in reality, they drive our families into the ground. I wish this couple and their family the best. But if at any time she wants out...we've got that covered.

Justice? Nice post I agree with you...

GHB Be safe on the road, thanks for your response, I ENVY your lifestyle and wish you well... HOWEVER, This story is about a scumbag dad doing to his family something that is NOT right...he is a piece of work...

Long Beach,

What's not right? They aren't doing anything you agree with? You don't like the fact that they are doing something you want to but can't for some reason? Did you read the whole story? You jealous because they've seen more of our country than you have?

If somebody offered us enough money for our house, we would do the same thing. I spent enough time on the road in a truck with my wife sitting beside me to know that we would enjoy being able to visit where and when we wanted to.

It goes to prove that bigotry exists in all forms of life. You should try to get a copy of "The Point", a movie on TV in the early 70's, and see just how ridiculous you sound because you are so envious.

Read: Leigh14's post below...
It's very logical and enlightening...
Right on...

NEW DUST BOWL? You have got to be kidding! They couldn't afford their home but could afford that huge truck and RV? The gas alone must be quite expensive. DID you people even read ""Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck? Did you people even watch the movie "Grapes of Wrath"? These people AREN"T the Joad family not by a long shot. Just some rich @ssholes taking a years vacation and blaming the economic downturn.

Devil's bastard son...

I fully agree with your assessment. Very well said. 100% True, the guy is a bad father, doing what he wants and using other people's REAL suffering as an excuse...

Read my 1st post at the very top.

Husband drives the monster of a truck and trailer and his wife is the navigator. How is that constrewed to be she "takes directions" if you read it right, HE is taking the directions. And I honestly don't see what is wrong with that. If my family takes a long road trip my husband drives and I handle the directions to get there; then I take over if he gets too tired or needs a break. What would you say if the wife was the driver? Probably that HE needs to leave HER because she's secretly a controlling bull dyke?

Now you're getting it...I like the secret bull dyke part...but I have never seen a Bull Dyke keep her secret very well... The military haircut and the bullying attitude is usually a dead giveaway!!!! Imagine anyone NOT knowing that Rosie O'Donnell is a DYKE... Dykes have issues! Lesbians are tolerable.

We're living in our RV (26-ft travel trailer) too after a job and home loss. I'd love to see their expenses because we can't get by on $300 a month! I wish my kids thought it was as much fun as Justice. Part of our problem is we are staying in the same place to keep the kids in school so there's no change of scenery. Maybe we'll go mobile in the summer and make it more of an adventure!

http://theboxcarkids.wordpress.com/

“Just taking care of the house, with the mortgage and the insurance and the utility bill and all that, we were probably looking at around $3,000 a month,” he told NBC. “Now we’re looking around $300 a month for the same thing.”

He is NOT claiming the $300/month includes gas, food, etc.

Second, the kids have had plenty of socialization by now and a couple of years of geography, history, and social studies lessons on the road will probably be good for them. At least it has to be better than entertainer's kids who are on the road all of the time.

Also, maybe the wife "handles directions" (NOT "takes directions" as stated above) because she does not want to drive something that big. I wouldn't.

Now rethinking "On The Road Again" with this Dad and his family, it is not a learning experience in school, but all it is, is a Geography Lesson.

kaara, absolutely.

Just think of all the people in America (apparently millions, based on all the whining and crying) who have lost their jobs/can't pay their mortgage/are upside down on their loans, etc, and now expect their fellow taxpayers to pay their way through life.

You do what you have to do. I think what this family is doing is fantastic. They aren't asking for my tax dollars to pay their mortgage, they aren't asking for my tax dollars to help them buy a house, and they didn't use my tax dollars to trade in their clunker!

Ah, freedom! Priceless!

There is nothing like being accountable for one's own decisions!

This family would most likely rather live in their home, and have an income.

Very creative, but traveling like this all the time, gets monotonous.. Wouldn't be surprised if the family being together 24/7 are about ready to "explode" at each other.

Unemployment has to be addressed by President Obama. We are at almost 11 per cent. An ABSENT President in the White House.

When is he finally going to try to get this mess straightened out. The Obama's are living like Kings and Queens, and their subjects are the serfs.

Terrible, and irreponsible, non caring President. When did he ever make overtures of compassion or help to the families of the unemployed giving them some direction to find jobs?

He just doesn't care about the American people at all.

Going Mobile !! nomadic living, vagabond, traveling with the good weather..staying away from devastating storms, enjoying this life in this short life span..if one can endure that and survive financially, why not ?? America the beautiful, land of the free...not all vagabonds are running gypsies......

Very creative, but traveling like this all the time, gets monotonous.. Wouldn't be surprised if the family being together 24/7 are about ready to "explode" at each other.

We homeschool and I am with my children 24-7..... some famillies actually enjoy being together. Too bad yours doesn't...you're missing out.

KW:

My family gets along great. It's about giving your children independence and freedom at a certain age.

You can't own your children forever.

I like all the "assumptions" people make on posts--they're always wrong.

Very creative, but traveling like this all the time, gets monotonous.. Wouldn't be surprised if the family being together 24/7 are about ready to "explode" at each other.

Yea, everyone needs their own space some times. And I'm not sure which is sadder, the fact that this couple has forced their kids into a life on the road, away from friendships and peers and some sort of normal public environment where they can grow and develop, or the fact that this guy had a good job yet still managed to borrow and spend to the point where six months after a job loss his family was essentially broke. Do you really have to spend every last dime you make? Better yet, do you really think you're doing your kids a favor by making them live this kind of lifestyle? As with many, I've often dreampt of selling all my krap and joining the open road but there's no way I'd do that to my kids.

I can understand your opinion about them, but really, would you rather they were in a homeless camp, begging on the side of the street and wondering where their next meal will come from?

This nomad lifestyle is probably not for everybody, but they seem to be enjoying it. And I think it's a terrific experience for their kids. As far as everyone needing their own space, I'm sure when someone needs to get away they find a way to do it. I applaud them for the idea.

checkerbattery:

You are right.

Why did this man go broke? Something is not right with this story. Why doesn't the media ask the kids how they like it. Kids like to be home, that is their place of security and safety, along with having friends and a regular routine..

Do they eat at McDonald's or other Fast Food Restaurants all the time? 99 cent hamburgers.

My biggest concern, is people will be mesmerized by this story, and do the same irresponsible thing.

It sounds too good to be true.

Hawaii2, leave it to a republican to turn a nice, interesting, informative article into an Obama bash session.

You people expect Obama to magically cure all the problems with the wave of a hand. My god man, It took Cheney and his puppet Bush 8 years to bring the country to this current state. Actually, in my view, this all started with Reagan and his "trickle down" economy. Well the only trickle I have felt is the trickle when the rich guy's are urinateing.

I wonder what they are paying for all that gas? Their food bill must be pretty high too. What will they do when their truck breaks down?

This doesn't add up.

Mike:

Please don't make excuses for Obama's inadequacies.

He is the President now.

There is severe higher unemployment now under the Obama Administration, than in the Bush/Cheney days.

Suck it up, and take responsibility. This article is ALL about Obama. The guy is out of a job, the worst uemployment in 36 years!

Live in the "today".

Sounds like Hawaii2 needs to get some information from some other places besides faux news and limbaugh! LOL

Bartman:

Your remarks are totally without substance or comprehension.

How about the experience of raising chldren who are secure, safe, have trust, and lots of friends, teaching them respect for all humankind, whether they are rich or poor or in between. Also Going to college, getting further education, degrees and making huge successes of themselves.

That is a parents responsibility. A parent gives a child the tools for the future, then they have to choose what to make of their lives. Also giving Charity to others less fortunate.

What are your experiences of raising children?

Unemployment has to be addressed by President Obama. We are at almost 11 per cent. An ABSENT President in the White House.

When is he finally going to try to get this mess straightened out. The Obama's are living like Kings and Queens, and their subjects are the serfs.

Terrible, and irreponsible, non caring President. When did he ever make overtures of compassion or help to the families of the unemployed giving them some direction to find jobs?

He just doesn't care about the American people at all.

So it only took 2 posts to blame it all on our President!! (heavy sigh) I find it amazing that something that took years to create (prior to his Presidency) is expected to be fixed overnight!

"I like all the "assumptions" people make on posts--they're always wrong."

You're so right, Hawaii, you've done a great job of proving it, too!!

LS, I concur. While Hawaii seems to be very articulate he also appears to mimic the great comedian & entertainer - Rush (Excellence in entertainment) Limbaugh. He seems to think all of world history began on January 20th of 2009.

It took a long time to reach the situation that we found ourselves in back in 2008. It is going to take a long time to fully recover.

Some of you are wondering where they are gettin the money to do this. If you read the article fully you see that he has found a job that allows him to work on line from the trailer. They are also not planning to live this way forever. They are looking for places that have a reasonble cost of living and where they might be able to find success and settle down again. This is a great opportunity for the kids to see things and places they may not otherwise get to see. Think of the educational value of being able to visit historical places that other kids may be only able to dream of seeing.

Your right Harry, it is a great chance for the kids to see places and meet people from somewhere other than their hometown. A great way for them to absorb the cultural differences present in our vast country, at least while they still can.

The problem is that our society wants you to conform to it's way of looking at things and if you stray from the path, as presently being pushed by the leaders of our society, then you are wrong. Just like the Borg, "resistance is futil, you will be assimilated". If you don't conform then you are wrong

hawai 2 somehow I don't think that many people are going to shell out 160-200k for a truck 5th wheel combo to live an iressponsible lifestyle mesmerized or not

Hilo:

Good comments.

It's actually pretty funny that some think the only options they have on the road for food is fast food and eating out. Obviously never been camping. You can make just about anything over an open camp fire-good nutritious foods PLUS there are fridges in those campers for veggies/etc.

Why does everyone assume that they purchased the truck and trailer after the job loss? Perhaps they already had it.........

Mike W.

How long are you and other Liberals going to give Obama time to straighten out the mess that was left behind (still bashing Bush, after O has almost been in office 1 year), 2 years, 3 years?

People who are unemployed can't wait 2-3 years before O makes his decision. Everyone will be bankrupt, then more taxes again. He's going to "tax" toothpaste too, it's a luxury item.

BTW: Obama can't make any decisions, especially in Afghanistan, or Health Care. They're all a "bust".

How much time for Obama to do his job with responsibility and clear answers to the American Public?

We're waiting----------------

everyone i've ever known from Hawaii is scum... seems fitting since you carry that as your tag name.. here is my advice..crawl into a hole and do us the honor of dieing

Harry:

One does the things this father is doing, like visiting Historical places in the summer, when the kids are on Summer Vacation. No school

Hawaii,

I will give him as long as it takes as long as I (repeat I) feel that he is doing his best to make progress. One of the things you "DITTOHEADS" forget is that there are approximately 600 other people who have to agree. Some are argueing don't do anything, others are argueing "it is too expensive" and others are argueing "Lets do something now, worry about success later" Now, which would you prefer? Maybe you are so omnipotant that you know exactly the right course and, to the penny, exactly what it will take. You should jump on a plane to Washington right now so YOU can instruct congress and the nation on how the recovery can be brought about INSTANTLY and without any cost.

So far all I see from the "Dittoheads" is one liners - right out of Rush's playbook. Everyone complains and blames the President (and I don't care who it is) without even thinking of the broader picture. I bet you applauded when Rush said "I hope he fails"

more than likely, if there is no means to survive..however, there are real crafty people out there, that have the remarkable abilities to make things resolve..

Clint:

You know it!

Clint/Hawaii2; I have been traveling the country for a year as a full timer. I did it first in 2006 for 4 months and really liked it. It really doesn't get old to me, it's actually great since I have family all over the country this way of life has allowed me to keep in physical contact with them, at their convenience.

I did not need to do this, I chose to do it, my reason was due to my life change in no longer living a life of excess. I would encourage everybody to try it if possible, even just take a vacation and rent a camper/truck/RV whatever you can afford and do something different with your family.

G.H.

I hope you are not encouraging people to take their kids out of school and "hit" the road for 2 years. What about their routine medical care, such as dental and Family Physician. Where will they go for a stable, consistent patient relationship with a Private Physician?

So many questions.

You are obviously savvy enough when traveling, not to drag the kids out of school. Some parents are not competent to homeschool their child.

It is a Geography lesson for this family.

And other parents are very qualified to home school. As regards interaction with other children, I would much rather have my children interact with kids in RV parks than with the gangbanger wannabes you see in some of the public schools. and I would further not want my children interacting with the upity snobs that inhabit the private schools.

Well, every party has a pooper.

What a killjoy you are! This lifestyle these folks have will not be forever, and the kids are learning great lessons in tenacity in the face of adversity.

Lighten up and enjoy your day!

I am absolutely certain that you have never lived in a 41' trailer.

In other words, you don't know what you're talking about.

I do.

And yes, I'm one of those obnoxious people who believe children should be raised in a stable home environment whenever possible. I think they should have the chance to make lasting friendships and memories of schooldays and Christmas and family parties rather than gravel pits and how miserable it is to spend day after day in the back seat of a truck.

Who says they are spending every day in the truck. A lot people park these RV's in parks for periods of time and pay one fee.

And have I lived in a trailer, yes.

Lasting friendships? I have made so many friends, we have kept in touch by phone, mail, e-mail and by keeping touch and going back to see those friends.

and who says that a trailer isn't a stable home. A home is where and what you make of it. these people are taking care of there family in a time that is hard up. They are still going to school and getting an education. who says they haven't kept in touch with old friends. And as for Christmas and family parties, it sounds to me it would be easier to see family and spend time with them now then it was before.

We shouldn't knock something that is working for this family as well as others. They are happy and together and making memories as a FAMILY. As the oldest said he is happy. And as for a safe place to raise a family, yes there are places that are better then others but still no place is 100% safe its all on how you care of each other.

Just because it didn't work for you doesn't mean it isn't working for them. And if you really read the article they crunched numbers and made the best choice for them. Instead of letting the money run out or buying a property they couldn't afford in the end since they had NO jobs and didn't want to end up on the street or on a couch somewhere penniless they did what they thought was best.

I say good luck to the family and I hope everything works out in your favor.

Leigh, different strokes for different folks!

I'd say being stuck in an over-priced tract house in the suburbs, with a view of a hundred other houses all looking alike, is far outweighed by a life on the road!

RNelson - My thoughts exactly!

RNelson:

Lasting friendships for a child is not the same as for an adult. You make friends, stay in touch, great. Kids make friends by spending time with them most days, not by seeing them once or twice a year. It's a completely different reference, and I think you know that.

As for school, you claim these kids are in school, but how could they be if they are traveling all the time? Do you mean to tell me the parents are enrolling these kids in a different school every few days or once a week? That's ridiculous. And I think you know that, too.

As for it not working for me, I never said that. It works great for me. My kids are grown and I not only live in a travel trailer -- because I can move to any part of the country I want to live in without having to sell my house -- but I also have a small motorhome, because I love to travel and don't want to drag a huge trailer along.

I've lived this way for many years. I know all about the RV lifestyle -- both the pros and the cons. And I can't count the people who have said they envy me. Well, sure. They envy the romance of it all. But before people choose this option, they should think about the downside -- not just read a smile story and start romanticizing about life on the road.

It can be fun for singles or retiree's, but it's no place to raise kids.

They are with both parents in a stable environment. They get to see the world....memories they will never lose Get over yourself, leigh--- these people seem to be doing just fine and their kids are very lucky. I would love to do this...we already homeschool, so no big adjustment to spening 24-7 with the kids. I think it's great.

As for school, you claim these kids are in school, but how could they be if they are traveling all the time? Do you mean to tell me the parents are enrolling these kids in a different school every few days or once a week? That's ridiculous. And I think you know that, too.

Ever heard of homeschooling --- millions of people do it.

I do know about lasting friendships, I have moved around my whole life and I have friends that I made when i was in kindergarden so don't tell me about lasting friendships! I also have friends still that I met on a week trip to see my family in Minn. so don't tell me that childhood friendships don't last!

And as for there schooling they are taking on line classes. It's called being home schooled! Something that not only familys like theres but also families with homes that don't move do. ie my cousin is home schooled and is a smart child with lots of friends.

And just because you don't see the pros and cons for them, only for yourself, doesn't mean they aren't happy. and they are together as a family and that is what is most important.

Why do you say "get over yourself, Leigh" when all I'm doing is pointing out the other side of the story?

If you want to do it, fine, that's your business. You have control over your kids and if you want to not only homeschool them, but prevent them from making lasting friendships, that's your business and your right. They are your kids. But living on the road is not a stable environment, by definition.

I'm just stating my opinion, so get over your own self.

I don't get where she said that childhood friendships don't last.

I think she was talking about the opposite actually.

Leigh:

Hope this man doesn't have the "mindset" of the Balloon Dad.

It's not fair to the kids. They need a continual education from a public school, unless the Mother and Dad have been teachers, or are very astute and smart.

They are robbing the kids of having friends. Just being with the family 24/7 is stifling, and suffocating.

Overprotectiveness is bad.

Hawaii:

I think you made my point about the kids better than I did.

Especially if they are already being homeschooled, it seems to me they need the chance to form friendships and relationships outside of the family.

I could see doing this for a short time, but 2 years is a big chunk out of a kid's life. And I believe it can make a difference in their development.

For very young children, whose world revolves around mom and dad -- it would be great for them. But children who are learning the skills necessary to relate to others outside the family... no, I don't think so. These relationships are built over time, by seeing the response one gets from the same group of people, by sharing confidences, and engaging in long-term relationships. A string of overnight meetings with strangers is not going to help a child build real social skills.

Children are alienated enough in today's world.

You know what, Leigh....just because they are living in a motor home and traveling around doesn't mean they don't have a stable home life. They have two parents, which is more than 50% of kids in the U.S. have.

Your idea of a perfect way to raise children may not be the same as theirs, but that doesn't mean they are wrong.

Mary:

It is the concern for the best interests and the welfare for the children. How is this going to affect their feeling of safety and security in their life running around the country with no structure or routine?

This family has bad judgment.

Leigh:

You sound very "grounded" in your thoughts, and a good parent, also.

Thank you very much for the wonderful comments.

People who are thinking of this kind of lifestyle for their children, re think it again.

Leigh has made EXCELLENT comments.

We do live in a "Crazy" world, and Security and safety for children are the most important priority while raising children.

Building Trust and Stability for children.

Its not romanticized, its harsh reality. Its why Americans are survivors and winners. When faced with hardship and delima they stood up and used their ingenuity to overcome the problem as best they could instead of sitting around whining and waiting for the government to provide them a hand out. Good for these folks and the many more fighters out there that will stubbornly survive anything and everything life throws at them. Maybe the crybabies of the country should take a lesson from this and learn to adapt and do for yourself instead of living from government handout to handout.

Azrancher:

Excellent comments and a different point of view.

It is the concern for the best interests and the welfare for the children. How is this going to affect their feeling of safety and security in their life running around the country with no structure or routine?

This family has bad judgment.

Oh, I just love those that say it's for the welfare of the children! You don't know jack about this family or their lifestyle and you can make a comment about the welfare of their children!!

This family is making it work....that's all that matters!!

LS: apparently you don't know anything the potential backlash of this

Do you personally know them. That way, your statement would be believable.

Children who are uprooted with no structure or routine, schooling are potentially kids with emotional issues, such as never having a stable life, trouble, insecurity with relationships, forming long lasting friendships. It does harm to the child.

I don't think you have really thought this one through. They are on a Joy Ride.

Children must have structure, and know they have a permanent home base. That way they feel secure.

It's the Dad who is self-centered, that is making it work.

Leigh; who says the kids have to sleep on sofas and tables that fold down. Campers are made with multiple beds in them, I had one before and know. You assume that EVERY day they are on the road and the kids are "stuck" in the backseat. Who said they were on the road traveling every day? Often people stay at a location for 3 days to a month. Plus it's not necessary to be in a campground and pay each night. Heck I can run 3 days easy just off of battery power, then I can either fire up the generator or move to a location that has electricity.

Hawaii90210

I fully agree with you, very well put...

They need a continual education from a public school, unless the Mother and Dad have been teachers, or are very astute and smart.

Oh, please...public school is terrible. I would never do that to my kids and we don't live on the road.

Greg W.:

You can't be serious. A development of homes and families living side by side is a much better environment for children than Joy riding for 2 years across the US, or elsewhere. This is where families get and have a Community. Do you know about living in a Community of friends and neighbors?

Please tell me, you are "puffing" smoke.

Long Beach:

I truly appreciate your comments. Thank you.

KW:

Any public school is better than living in an RV, 24/7 and having your parents either homeschool you in the bathroom, or on the little dinette table.

How do you think children, and teens get all kinds of experiences with team sports, special classes, especially for learning disabled children, extracurricular activities, extra tutoring classes, and being with their school friends.

It is devastating to the child. Uprooting and on the continual move.

Someone mentioned Military Families. That can't be helped.

We appreciate our Military for all they have given up to help us. Usually Military people are at least stationed somewhere for more than 1 day!

uh, I think they did plan for the future and they obviously had a savings, the dad only recently got a job. How do you think they've been paying for things?

Its funny how two people can look at the exact same thing and see two completely different pictures.

Interesting view from both of you. My first thought was "must be nice to have enough money to travel for 2 years." LOL

Obviously the guy had money, that truck & a 41' trailer are EXPENSIVE as heck. Gas isn't cheap (and the truck's probably a diesel to boot). Air cards aren't free (for the internet the kids are "going to school" on & the mom is blogging on).

Most people who lost their jobs will soon be living in their cars with their whole families, rather than having a year-long road trip in an expensive trailer...

sg,
I agree. This situation may be the exception to the rule, after all, the father was the vice-president of a software company. Probably making real good money. It's stated in the article that house expenses alone were about $3000 a month. Which, conservatively, puts his annual income to about $100,000-$175,000 (wouldn't be surprised if it was more). His monhly payment, stated, for his truck and 41' foot trailer is about $300 a month. Which means, he put a pretty nice chunk of change down. Add in gas, food, communications, RV fees, "pleasures", tells me there's money in the bank and probably a good amount. Even with their kids enthusiasm for now, it will get old fast (factoring in more down time, since dad got a job). I do wish them the best. But this isn't really the "let's hit the road, jack, dad's lost his job" scenario. It's more like, "we got the money to do this", scenario.

dakota twin, executive of a bank??? Did you even read the article? Vice president of a software company is what I read. Kids are resilient. The oldest one said he didn't miss their old life. The home schooling they're getting is probably better than public schooling. "they also will be unable to have successfull lives as adults"?? You assume because they lost their jobs and don't have a "house" they're "unsuccessfull adults"? I say congrats for getting out from under a mortgage that could have dragged them under and looking ahead. Being mobile lets them scope out the job markets everywhere.

Dakota Twin:

I agree with your comments. Is there a possibiity they have money from some other source? The media doesn't give us the FULL story.

Its not "nice" to have money put aside in savings like so many entitlement babies view it, its hard work and planning. I was always taught that a mature repsonsible person should save and put away until he has enough to support his debt and lifestyle for a minimum of 12 months. Then in the event of job loss or emergency you can live normally for a year at least to allow you to seek new income. This does not happen by accident, it takes work and planning and sacrifice. You may have to put off going out on the weekends or do without the big screen for awhile. But thats what you need for a "safety net". Many people today just live for the moment and spend as fast as they get and then when hardship strikes they cry and want someone else to step in a save them. That is a part of our economic issues today. But in fairness most people learn this from the leadership. Spend Spend Spend with out thought or planning is exactly what our government does so why shouldn't the people emulate this.

Hopefully many people will wake up during this economic problem and return to basic common sense, like people who make 32,000 a year cant afford a $350,000 house and two new cars and ten credit cards.

@Dakota Twin:

Re read the story please, I'm not sure where you read he worked at a bank?

"When Dave Dudley lost his plum job as a vice president of a software company"

AZRancher:

You could have written common sense any better. How did this Dad go broke. Don't Executives get 6 months to 1 year Severance Pay?

There is something truly missing from this story.

It is the Dad that is the Unstable one. The kids are the victims of his nutty behavior.

How cool!!!!!

What makes you think they're driving "all day, almost every day"?

Well they talk about traveling constantly, for one thing. To travel, you have to drive, right?

The alternative is sitting in a gravel pit, some of which have swings for the kids.

If someone thinks this is a great lifestyle, I say go for it. I'm just giving the other side of the story for those who want to think about the pros and cons before getting swept up in a highly romanticized story.

Believe it or not, you are allowed to stay more than one night in a RV park, and the tow vehicle will detach and allow them the freedom to see the area they have chosen to stay in. The US has beautiful state parks that have hiking and biking trails, lakes and creeks to fish in or just sit by and read a book. I think it's great that this family has chosen an alternative to just letting life go by them. When it does get old, I believe they will settle in an area they have previously visited and will give the children that stability. In the meantime, they get on down the road and I wish I was with them!

Again, if it works for you, do it.

I'm just telling people that this is a highly romanticized story. And I know because I've been there - done that.

I also want people to know there are alternatives. Many people don't realize that there are places in America -- nice places -- where you can still buy a decent home for less than $30k. Yes, you will live in a small town, but do some research and you can find one near or in a university town with lots of amenities and things to do.

And small town America is a great place to live and raise kids.

Again -- I'm just telling people that it can be very hard to raise kids on the road, for both the kids and the adults. I'm pointing out that this story glorified the experience and mentioned none of the challenges. There are other options.

Leigh14

You say this (very magnanimous of you by the way)-

Again, if it works for you, do it.

And then you say this-

I'm just telling people that this is a highly romanticized story. And I know because I've been there - done that.

Translation: I'll give the possibility that some people think differently than I do intellectual lip service because that is what is required to seem like a reasonable minded person nowadays... But I don't really believe it.

So, the mobile life wasn't for you. We get it.

I also want people to know there are alternatives. Many people don't realize that there are places in America -- nice places -- where you can still buy a decent home for less than $30k. Yes, you will live in a small town, but do some research and you can find one near or in a university town with lots of amenities and things to do.

Sure it's usually cheaper, but not everybody likes small towns. There can be a certain static, narrow-minded, conformity that exists there that can be very stifling for many people.

And small town America is a great place to live and raise kids.

In your opinion. Which is apparently the one that really counts.

Again -- I'm just telling people that it can be very hard to raise kids on the road, for both the kids and the adults. I'm pointing out that this story glorified the experience and mentioned none of the challenges. There are other options.

Sure. But it can be hard to raise them in a small town as well. I live in one with less than 1500 people. I have to deal with certain--shall we say--cultural issues, that pop up very frequently.

There is a lot of pressure to conform to a certain standard, or even pressure to take on certain group dynamic roles within a small community that can be difficult to cope with for children. Especially a non-conformist, which my daughter is. It's safe here, but there are other problems. Weigh pros and cons. I personally think you paint an idealised, romanticised picture of small town life.

I think that it's great that these people have found something that works for them, and it's great that you found what works for you.

MorganS

I think Leigh has made a lot of good points. I don't see why you feel the need for a personal attack.

I don't agree with everything she says, but I agree with a lot of it, especially about kids growing up in a stable home. And I have traveled extensively in an RV. So would you like to attack me too?

morgan,
All you did was argue almost every point of Leigh's post, just for arguments sake. At least Leigh contributed some of her life's experience to avail to others, some information. Relax, take it for what it's for, I did. Because, in a sense, you did the same thing you're accusing Leigh of. But as you would put it, "we get it".

Morgan:

So, the mobile life wasn't for you. We get it.

It's a good thing you can jump so well. Otherwise you'd never reach a conclusion. I am a gypsy from birth and own both a travel trailer AND a motorhome.

In your opinion. Which is apparently the one that really counts.

So, you're mad because I stated my opinion instead of YOURS?

Too bad. Get over it. I have a habit of thinking for myself and stating my own opinions. And I definitely wouldn't want to think like you, a person who is apparently so insecure as to feel the need for a vitriolic attack on anyone who disagrees with them. Although I doubt you behave that way in person. Just on the internet where you can get away with it.

This would be like camping 24/7. What about personal hygiene, bathroom facilities and sleeping accomodations.

If you think this is great, I bet by now, they think it "sucks".

The Dad's self esteem from being an exec. banker must be at zero---people who are devoted to their careers do not find it fun forever not having a purpose in life. An important job defines as person's self worth.

Just reading he has a "job" from the Trailer? What?

Hawaii:

It's not exactly like camping. You have a bathroom with shower, and a kitchen with stove and fridge. Sleeping accommodations get rather dicey if you have a family along, but most trailers have a queen-sized bed. The sofa makes another bed and the dinette makes a small bed of sorts.

Depending on how much you pay, these things can be like small apartments on wheels. Mine is fairly luxurious, with a washer-dryer, shower and garden tub, large bedroom, fireplace, breakfast bar, built-in glass-front bookcases, ceiling fans, even a small dishwasher.

Yep, really. :)

But mine is larger than average. I have a small motorhome for travel, and wouldn't want to try to drag this thing down the road all the time. I move it from one park to another when I want to live somewhere else. And even so, I wouldn't want to try to raise kids in it.

I live in an RV park. It's a nice one, lots of grass and trees and even a small lake. There are people here with kids. I'm not saying the kids look miserable. But I see the parents standing at the front waiting with them for the school bus. It's kind of sad. I still say it's no way to raise kids if you can find a better alternative.

Leigh14 You live an intinerent life, and I have lived in small towns most of my life, and while I do choose it, I know the pros and cons. Sure they romaniticised it, but you did the same about small towns. I am this way in real life. I'm judgemental and @!$%#y, and I'll state my point of view. You seem to jump just fine yourself.

Morgan:

You seem to jump just fine yourself.

LOL I do. I'm also a bit of a curmudgeon.

You're right, I love small towns, so I guess I do see mostly the good side. I like that the children are safer and one knows and socializes with one's neighbors. Of course, it would depend on the town, I guess. Maybe I've just been lucky. I was on the city council of my little town, and on the board of the historical society, and a member of various committees, so have fond memories.

On the other hand... there was the gossip, everyone knew your business -- often before you did, and one had to drive 60 miles to attend the ballet, or buy a household appliance for that matter. :)

Truce.

Padgie:

We wouldn't attack you, because we don't know your story. Are you retired, single or like the nomadic life?

Hawaii2:

We wouldn't attack you, because we don't know your story. Are you retired, single or like the nomadic life?

That's why I lurk more than post, because it seems if a person opens up on Newsvine, they are begging for it. :)

I'm a work-at-home mom of 2 -- a 13 year old boy and 11 year old girl.

How about you?

Padgie:

Let's just say I'm very experienced at raising children into a successful Adulthood. Two parent family. Dad and mother who made education the first priority as their goal. Love, respect, and cherish other people. Family comes first.

You are raising children at a great age, just wait, the challenges will be many, enjoy them, they grow up fast.

Camping??? Maybe to people in california, but living in a modern RV is not camping. My RV is better than most houses and apartments I lived in when I was younger. Queen bed, flat screen TV's with satalitte, microwave, stove, oven, shower. Plus I can move it whenever I like. I bought mine to live in while I built a house on the ranch, thought I would sell it when it was completed but keep it to travel in and use as guest housing.

Leigh14

Truce.

Truce.

Leigh:

That is an entirely different story. Living in a Motorhome Park. The kids have a school they can go to, and friends to count on for companionship and fun.

Your situation doesn't compare to "On The Road Again", sung by Willie Nelson.

Hawaii:

Your situation doesn't compare to "On The Road Again", sung by Willie Nelson.

Right. I have lived in a lot of different states, but stayed for extended periods.

However, I have spent months at a time on the road too, in the motorhome. I love to travel, and also both my vocation and avocation have periodic seminars and conventions that I like to attend, often held halfway across the country.

And sometimes I take a wrong turn and I just keep going. (That's a song, too. Hungry Heart, I think. :))

It's great when people don't read the article but comment on it. "exec. banker" ?? The first line told his job.....

Leigh,

First you say, "And at the end of the day, if you have a trailer like the one in this story, you pull into an RV park, which is almost always nothing but a bunch of parking spaces covered in gravel, one beside the other. You spend an hour unhitching, getting the trailer level, and hooking up to utilities. "

Then you come back with,"I live in an RV park. It's a nice one, lots of grass and trees and even a small lake."

According to your posts, you must have stumbled upon one of the very few nice parks around. However, I must disagree with your first statement anyway. I traveled from Alaska to Michigan in the 80's pulling a 33' travel; trailer down the Alcan Hiway and found very few parks that were mostly gravel covered parking spots.

Most were nicely appointed, lots of grass and trees, a couple even had lakes or streams and most had shower facilities, laundromats and small stores. Nor did it ever take an hour to unhitch, level the trailer and hook up to utilities. But then again maybe it was because we were on an adventure that everything worked out so nice.

Hippie, I have never been to Alaska -- yet -- so I haven't traveled down the Alcan Highway, but I have lived and traveled in RVs for decades, and I have stayed in more than 100 parks throughout the U.S. And while some are paved, most of them are gravel. And that is a FACT.

Some are nice, with wooded areas and amenities, most have showers and laundromats if you find such things particularly attractive, some have over-priced mini-stores, some are luxurious with swimming pools and clubhouses, some are nothing but total gravel pits. But few have paved lots, and many don't even have paved roads. The higher percentage have lots that are gravel. There are only two possible reasons why you might claim differently, one being that your experience is limited.

if it takes you an hour to unhook a 5th wheel at a gravel parking lot that is all you can find I would state that leigh is so full of shyt that his/her eyes are brown now that is what I would call an attack, not the reasonable posting of Morgan s. daring to disagree with leigh the proffesional trailer dweller

Leigh:

Love your writings.

I think you're WAY off base here....nobody in their right minds would travel from place to place on a daily basis the way you're saying they would, especially with kids! Get real! Even if they're dropping their trailer tongue in state park campgrounds, they're only moving out every 2 weeks. Most privately owned R.V. parks have monthly and even seasonal site rates. What's wrong with staying in one particular place for 3 or 4 months at a time and moving onto another area of the country for another 3 or 4 months??

probably in foreclosure and we will all pay the bill. Where did the money come from to purchase this combination? GMC Topkick isn't cheap nor is a 41 foot trailer. This package was probably in excess of $150,000.

There's a caption in the original article that states that the Dudleys sold their house.

I bet they sold their home, paid cash for Truck and Trailer, and still had much money in savings! Probably lived in or near Seattle (Pretty Expensive), and he was VP of a software Firm!

Also, it sounds like this family decided early to do this, rather then wait till it became unmanigable; therefore, they did not waste money in the TRAP!

I do question the $300/Month costs in doing this! Dieseal is Expensive!

Heather:

Washington State can't sell homes at all, except at rock bottom prices. If he had a rather nice one, it must be in foreclosure. Did he claim bankruptcy? No one knows the true facts.

They've been on the road for over a year....perhaps they were able to sell their home. Perhaps they also had the trailer and truck before this happened!!

Beyonddisgust. You are very right. Diesel is very expensive and those trucks get very bad milage. At the same time, if the engine isn't running they aren't burning fuel.

In my experience, most full timers will stay in an rv park for a month or more. If this Gentleman is working via WIFI he would be wise to stay put for a while to ensure contiued internet service.

correction diesel powered.

Most retired people around where I live already travel like this. They leave for the winter by now and don't return until April. They leave a trail of money wherever they go. Seems they are good for the economy somewhere.

There is a name for people who live and work from their RV... Workampers. Thousands of people are living at least part of the year in an RV and working at a wide variety of jobs... everything from consulting jobs like the dad in this family to taking tickets or selling concessions at an amusement park or helping out in a national park to working in registration or maintenance at an RV park or campground. Lots of Workampers are provided with a campsite with at least partial hookups for their efforts... and many opt for jobs that include pay to boot.

My mom and her husband worked last fall at a canoe/kayak/bicycle rental store in Bar Harbor, Maine. They got wages plus a full hookup campsite at a campground in a nearby village. Gas was at an all-time high last year, so by the time they drove to Maine and back from Arkansas, their earnings only paid for their trip. BUT... it was the trip of a lifetime to see the fall color in New England, and the Workamping job made it possible. After they left Maine, they traveled to Kansas and worked in a distribution center for amazon.com, fulfilling Christmas orders. The hours were long and hard, but the pay was top-notch, and they came home Christmas Eve with a good "nest egg" for the winter. This past summer they worked at an opera camp in NW Arkansas... wages plus a full hookup site and meals. They are both musicians, so they enjoyed the camaraderie AND the compensation.

If you can dream it, a Workamper does it... from consulting jobs and traveling nurses to full-time, year-round positions, such as campground managers, RV technicians, museum curators, and much more. With the recession, Workampers have found that there were plenty of "odd jobs" for them at a time when conventional employment might be lacking. Others like the Dudleys have "made lemonade out of lemons" and taken advantage of what many would perceive as a loss and turned it into a gain for their family. Yes, like those you describe, Workampers pour money back into the local economy... but the financial "support" is mutual. Kudos to them for seeing a positive side to their dilemma!

Not now, I'm driving.

I can understand these ideas, but does science or medicine support it?

What about rich families that travel the world a year at a time? Can we argue that this is not best for them?!?!

If Dad now has a job, time to put down roots at least part of the year so that the kids can be normal kids.

Have you taken a look around our country lately-- I'll pass on so-called "normal" kids. These kids are very lucky and in a stable environment. This family is making life-long memories and the kids will be the better for it.

beyonddisgust:

Rich families, have tutors, nannies, personal physicians (concierge) they take with them on long haul vacations for a year at a time. They are not irresponsible. Education comes first. They have the means and money to make sure their kids are well-taken care of.

The rich will not live in an RV or trailer. They rent McMansions and put down roots with lots of networking of more rich friends.

They do make sure their kids are getting a fine education. It might be the rich also leave when their children are off to college, or move away.

Hawaii I am assuming your RIch!?!?

beyond disgust:

Nope not rich, but rich in family and awareness.

So kids having "roots" must be better than kids who migrate?? Does this theory apply to military kids who frequently move from base to base following dads assignments,

or should they have roots like third generation gang members who live in the same house as their parents in inner cities across the country???

Stability in living locations can be a asset but not a requirement. Its more having good parents who travel then bad parents who stay put.

I know someone Rich. We call him Dick, for short.

They do make sure their kids are getting a fine education. It might be the rich also leave when their children are off to college, or move away.

Is that what Paris Hilton's parents did?

And, Hawaii, how do you know that these home schooled children, like millions of others, are not getting the best eduction.

and no doubt he calls you boy

Is that you, Rich?

captaink,
On the other hand, there are probably not many 14 year old boys posting here. I'd say, they would vote to see some girls more often.

Diesel is almost thrirty cents cheaper than gas. They're probably staying by the week in most places, it's usually $5-$10 dollars cheaper per night for a weekly rate. The math on this tells me the truck and trailer is payed for and the $300/mth is for insurance and lot rent.

LOL

Leigh the killjoy:

Kids (for the 50,000th time): Are we there yet?

Insurance company: No sir, we only pay for that $125 tire you blew if the tread is less than 1/16th of an inch worn.

RV Medic: Yes sir, even the gas-only hot water tank is $650 installed.

RV repair shop: Well sir, if you don't keep your rig perfectly level, these refrigerators are damaged and once that happens, the only option is to replace it. That will be $1200 please.

Wife: Honey, wake up. I hear the wind blowing and I don't think we put the awning up. Now where is that gizmo you need to hold on with while you retract it? Honey... Honey.... you've been out in that blowing rain for half an hour. Haven't you got that awning up yet?

Teenage Son: Dad, I tried to dump the black water tank like you showed me, but something got stuck and now there is crap all over the ground, and uh... on my shoes, and on my hands, and this is GROSS!

Husband: Can't you read a simple map? How am I supposed to turn this thing around?

Husband at RV park: You wave with your LEFT hand if you want me to back to the left. Are we going to have to pay for this hookup I just hit along with the dent in the trailer? Why the hell did I ever marry you???

Leigh, LOL.

That was good. Having traveled extensively in an RV, I'm here to say you nailed it.

LMAO that's funny.....I guess the secret to making this work on the road is..........don't take the wife!!!!!!

I guess the secret to making this work on the road is..........don't take the wife!!!!!!

Oh yeah?

Here's the other side of that story, too:

Pulling out of my RV park one day, I am stopped by the fact that a huge 5th wheel is laying on its side in the ditch. Various men are milling around, giving advice, cussing and discussing. I joined them and asked the owner what happened.

Husband: Just as I was turning, my wife's head got in the way.

I want you to know I kept a straight face until I had walked away. To this day I wonder exactly where his wife's head was. But I know one thing for sure: I would not want to be married to this guy. :)

LMAO I like your thinking Leigh14....Gotta have a sense of humor in these times!!!!!!!!

Oh please, don't give anyone ideas. There's already too many brainless, boring reality shows.

Been there already, lasted all of about 2 shows on TLC, 5 for the Road.

I suppose they even had that sitcom/drama spinoff of touched by an angel what was it!?!

Maybe it's time to change the voting process.

They've got to outright own the truck and trailer(probably closer to $150k for the pair). $300/mth would cover insurance and lot rent. I would think the opposite. Home schooling has got to be better than public.

I would think the opposite. Home schooling has got to be better than public.

Amen. When my friends son acts up or won't do his school work, she puts him in the car and drives past the public school at the end of the school day --- she reminds him where he will be if he doesn't listen...works every time.

But when and where do the kids go to school? And living out of a trailer on a Mexican beach

Homeschooling -- you can actually do that even if you live in a regular house!!! There is lawlessness EVERYWHERE. I have friends who lived as missionaries in Mexico for several years -- they loved it and return several times a year now. I think this would be a great way to live -- for the children and adults. I envy them.