I am joining the Class of 2019! I camped as kid growing up, but never as an adult and definitely not solo. I purchased my 28' Airstream and a 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 last year (2018) so I could hike, bike and kayak with my dog and not have to worry about pet friendly hotels and restaurants. As I researched what type of RV I wanted, I realized there is this huge community of FT'ers. My interest was definitely peaked and I slowly came to the realization that I could camp part time for a couple years to learn the ropes and then perhaps work FT from the road before retiring. However, plans changed quickly when I found out I qualified for retiree benefits (at 59!), including medical coverage until I reach medicare at 65. It was a game changer financially and after years of scrimping and saving, my financial advisor confirmed my calculations, that I could actually retire NOW! So I quickly put my house up for sale and gave my retirement notice. My house sold faster than I expected, so as of August 2019, I have been living FT locally in various County Forest Preserves, while I finish out my final days at work (great practice actually, since I have a great support system of friends if I need help). My last day in the office is October 14th and I leave the cold north (Chicago area) on October 15th for the warmth and sunshine that I miss so badly. I'm originally from Florida and almost all of my immediate family still lives there (except one sibling in South Carolina). I'm looking forward to establishing my domicile in Sumter County, FL and spending the holidays with family down south. After that, I'm not sure.......still catching up on all SKPs events and getting familiar with the site. I plan to hit as many National and State Parks as I can so I can continue to explore places with my dog (Sadie, a Cavalier King Charles) and with my family and friends across the continent.
