Newport Beach near my home of 10 years

This past year was an accelerated learning experience for me and the learning isn’t over yet.  I have enjoyed the rapid transition into my retirement very much, especially considering I was a workaholic most of my life.  I think what made the difference is I tried something new, “Full Time RVing”.

Chief Joseph Ranch, Darby, Montana

I made my decision to go “Full Time” during the summer of 2013 while on a visit to my sisters guest ranch in Montana.  Several of my close friends and family encouraged me to move forward.  Only a few had reservations, but not me.  Also Rob Wilson and his wife Jan, whom I had met from their online  blog as they visited 50 National Parks in their Sprinter Van were a role model to me and also encouraged me during the process.  I also followed RV Sue and Crew, The Bayfield Bunch, Life Live RV and too many more to name.

Costa Mesa Home of 10 years

Anyone who knows me would agree I don’t usually try something new too easily, especially something that so radically changes every aspect of your life.  Mine, which had been very stable for years.  My most recent home of ten years was located in Costa Mesa, California.

OCTOBER 2013, I finalized my full-time plans just as I was retiring.  By the end of that month I ordered my coach, to be delivered to me in Ehrenberg, Arizona in February 2014.

DECEMBER 2013, I finalized my domicile in Montana by traveling there to set up my address and secure my Montana Drivers license.  During that time I visited my Sister and Brother-in-law who had just sold the ranch and moved into a beautiful home on ten acres.   Soon after I left, they started plans for a remodel on the guest house on their property where I can stay when I’m in Montana.   It turned out very nice.

 JANUARY 2014, after returning to California I made arrangements to purchase my Workhorse in Oregon and flew there late in the month and had a leisurely drive back to Southern California.

First Photo of My New Truck – The Workhorse

Ever since last November  I had been slowly packing items that I would eventually move into my coach, eliminating “stuff” by selling or giving away to my children.

A few items destined to be passed down on my exit to heaven were passed along a little early.  I found myself stressing a little during the entire process, but I would say it was mostly the excitement of the upcoming changes.  The biggest adventure of my life.

FEBRUARY 2014, the daily countdown started and I moved a few of my boxes of possessions into the storeroom.

Separately all of my packed items for the Coach were weighed and moved into my Garage for the big day.

Finally the morning of February 10th was upon me after months of preparation.  I was excited beyond my dreams and ready to go to the RV Dealer to do my PDI, learning as much as I could in just a couple of hours.  I loaded up the boxes from my garage and off I drove to Mike Thompson RV in Corona.

After my PDI I traveled to Ehrenberg, Arizona to receive my delivery and taking possession of my new home “The Coach” by signing the final papers at Wendy’s.   There I met with the transportation company pulling my Coach and a Notary.   Frank, the driver was nice and spent some extra time with me, since it was my first time to hitch not only my Coach, but any fifth wheel.  Scary at first but rewarding.

It’s official, I am on the road.

The Coach with the Workhorse

MARCH 2014, I explored Arizona with my new rig and spent time with family.

A few blooms left

My Camp at Buckeye, AZ

APRIL 2014, I met my new companion, Jagger.  This again changed my lifestyle and we are still getting to know each other.  Many of my blogs talk about the challenges Jagger and I have had and we are still having, but we’ve made some progress.

MAY 2014, I left for Montana and saw many sights as I traveled North through Utah and Idaho.

Camp Lake Utah

Off the Road

Someone was Tired!

JUNE – JULY – AUGUST 2014, was spent relaxing at home, taking some short trips, and preparing for the trip back South in September.

Jagger 8 Months Old

Mountain Sheep

Rafters Having Fun

During a training meeting with Bob and Dona (Jagger-Sydney)

Jagger Playing in the Pond

Lolo Visitor Center

Jagger and Shasta Playing

Flathead River Hwy 2

We are going over?

SEPTEMBER 2014, we headed back South for the Winter

The remainder of the year was full of exploring and experiencing new way of life.  More details of my year is included in the individual blog here on the Retired Vagabond site.

What’s the matter?

Camp Mesa with Aiden and Romeo

I met many nice people along the way, including my friends and followers here at Retired Vagabond.  I also was able to experience some of my adventures with my family.  I must say that I am a very blessed individual.

Wishing each one of you a Happy New Year and safe travels until next time… Gary