How it All Started, Part Three
Then the research began. Gary spent hours watching RV YouTube channels. We discovered who we enjoyed and who we didn’t enjoy. We found who was knowledgeable and who was just after the likes and subscribes.
These are a few of our favorites:
https://www.youtube.com/@RVMiles
https://www.youtube.com/@wildrvlife
https://www.youtube.com/@WhyWait
I came up with a list of “must have” and “would be nice”. We discovered some styles we preferred and some we did not.
We downloaded the RV Trader app, set our parameters and spent months waiting for The One.
MEANWHILE, back at the home…we had to figure out the finances. Gary investigated his Social Security Income and what that monthly payment would look like. He originally wanted to check out at 62, I talked him into waiting until 63. Every year your monthly “income” increases.
Always count the cost. Do the math. Run the numbers. Figure out what works for you and what you can live with and live ON.
For 14 years we were a single income family while I stayed home and home schooled our children. We know how to live on a limited income. We know how to shop at the most affordable grocery stores. We have always been content to wear hand-me-downs or shop at the thrift store. You have to know yourself and your spouse, the lifestyle you are accustomed to and what you are willing to compromise on. Some of my friends call me a cheapskate, some use the nicer term of frugal. But this is seriously my reputation.
Our vehicles are not new, we have no car loans. We are blue collar workers without a college education, so we have no college debt. And we always, always, always pay off our credit cards every month. Being debt free is a priority to us.
Also, we faithfully tithe. If you are not familiar with this Biblical principal, I would encourage you to look into it. If you are not a believer, you might not understand. But in our marriage, since Gary got saved, he has tithed. This is the Webster definition:
Scripturally, this is what we believe:
taken from the internet; owner unknown
So the moral of today’s article is count the cost, do the research, pray about big decisions and be faithful. See Luke 16:10
To be continued….