Probably like any other transportation discussions, there’s a sometimes heated debate on the motorcycle forums about the use of GPS and other navigational devices. Many people feel that anything more than a map briefly consulted prior to the trip takes away from the adventure of the ride. This is often backed up with such sayings as “it’s the trip, not the destination, that is the adventure”. The idea of heading across the country (or state, or town) with only a general direction in mind is half the fun.
Other people feel that the adventure is in knowing where you are and where you are going and being able to experience the things that have been planned along the way. Not having to worry about where you are going to get gas or sleep leaves you to enjoy the other adventures you’ve planned for.
Well, knowing I’d be spending a lot of time on the road, and at times actually wanting to get somewhere, I decided to purchase a navigation system. From a previous system, I knew which features I wanted, needed or didn’t particularly like. I ended up with the Garmin Zumo 550, which they claim was created specifically for motorcycles, but comes with adapters to work in a vehicle as well. It also has the ability to get XM Satellite radio, which I figured would be handy as I cruise thru some of the more rural areas of the country. I was also able to plug in the memory card from my MP3 player, which plugs into an amplifier/speakers on the bike so I could take my blues with me until I subscribe to XM.
My trip to Chicago on the bike was the first run with the new device. I took an atlas along, just in case, but for the most part followed the instructions of the soft-spoken voice that would warn me of upcoming turns and “recalculating route” when I missed turns (I’m gonna need to name this “lady” that will be traveling with me).
Here are some highlights of my trial run –
The first night, as I pulled into Hope, AR to find a room, I discovered that the GPS had a selection under Points of Interest for “Entertainment – Bar/Night Club”. I was thrilled, until I entered “find nearest to Hope, AR” and it came back with “You’re Screwed”. Seems most of Arkansas is still “dry” and the nearest adult beverage was back in Texas!
But, the next day it redeemed itself when it lead me to Myrtle’s Place for lunch in the old part of Poplar Bluff, Missouri. And, I figured if it was the special of the day, the liver and onions was as good of a bet as any. And it was.
The rest of the trip was stress-free as far as directions were concerned. As the bike would near empty, the unit would warn me (a “motorcycle only” option) and then show me where the nearest gas stations along my route were. This allowed me to know if I needed to stop immediately, or go the additional 20 or so miles I had on that tank of gas.
So, I’m still able to wander and get lost (the true purist would be proud), but when it comes time for food or gas (or alcohol if I’m not in Arkansas), the Zumo is going to be very handy. And did I mention I can set a point for “Here”, so that way I can find my way back to those favorite places, like where I parked the camper!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Simple Things
Sometimes it’s the simplest things in life that give us the most pleasure.
For instance, I’ve been shopping for a camper/toyhauler since November. I’ve searched the internet, the local papers and numerous RV stores and used lots trying to find just the right model (yes, I’m a bit picky when it comes to spending that much money on the “house” I plan to live in). Well, just before leaving for Chicago for the Blues Fest, I found one! So, on my ride north, every time I passed an RV lot, that I did not have to stop at, I got this big silly grin on my face.
The simple things.
You know, like when the cute little girl working the front desk at the motel asks if you qualify for an AARP discount. You have to figure that if she’s that young, and you look that old, take the discount.
The simple things.
Like the satisfaction you get when you break down on the side of the road on your motorcycle and you’re able to fix it with duct tape and JB Weld.
The simple things.
Or when you actually took your parent’s advice, and it proved right (who would have thought clean underwear was so important?).
But, the simplest thing of all, that gives me so much pleasure as I’m going thru this adventure is knowing that God is taking care of everything! Sure, I have to be cautious and responsible, but I know that He’ll watch out for me, and as long as I listen for His signs (and give him the glory of the successes I’ve been experiencing) I don’t have to worry a single bit about what’s around the next corner.
The simple Thing.
For instance, I’ve been shopping for a camper/toyhauler since November. I’ve searched the internet, the local papers and numerous RV stores and used lots trying to find just the right model (yes, I’m a bit picky when it comes to spending that much money on the “house” I plan to live in). Well, just before leaving for Chicago for the Blues Fest, I found one! So, on my ride north, every time I passed an RV lot, that I did not have to stop at, I got this big silly grin on my face.
The simple things.
You know, like when the cute little girl working the front desk at the motel asks if you qualify for an AARP discount. You have to figure that if she’s that young, and you look that old, take the discount.
The simple things.
Like the satisfaction you get when you break down on the side of the road on your motorcycle and you’re able to fix it with duct tape and JB Weld.
The simple things.
Or when you actually took your parent’s advice, and it proved right (who would have thought clean underwear was so important?).
But, the simplest thing of all, that gives me so much pleasure as I’m going thru this adventure is knowing that God is taking care of everything! Sure, I have to be cautious and responsible, but I know that He’ll watch out for me, and as long as I listen for His signs (and give him the glory of the successes I’ve been experiencing) I don’t have to worry a single bit about what’s around the next corner.
The simple Thing.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
WOW!
As they say, watch what you wish for.
I knew I wanted to travel, and ultimately work in or own a campground or some cabins. So I had to decide what to do with the house. I could rent it, sell it, or possibly lock it up and have it as a "winter place", assuming I come back in the winter. Either way, it needed work.
I decided to list it to see if it would sell "As Is". Well, it did. The same day I signed the Seller's Aggreement! I had about 2 weeks till closing and then 6 days after that to get out. Needless to say, the last few weeks have been very hectic and quite stressful. A lot of friends stepped up and helped out. Everything from garage sales, to working on my bike to dinners and dog sitting for me. Come to think of it, I've never had so many friends before. Do you think its because they WANT to help me get out of town? (8-)
Seriously, as stressful as its been, its gone very well. I've kept God in front of me along the way and let him lead. That's how I know selling the house is the right thing to do (and the lady buying the place is perfect for the location and the neighbors I leave behind). While I've had some minor trials, He's set things up pretty well.
So, as of tomorrow, I am "home free" as the title agent put it.
I'm heading to Chicago on the motorcycle for the Blues Fest this weekend. When I return, I'm picking up a Toyhauler, which is a 5th Wheel trailer with a 10' foot garage in the back part. Then, its on the road!
I'll post more, along with pictures, when I return and get parked somewhere and get some time.
In the mean time, here's the house I've spent quite a bit of the past 7 years in.
I knew I wanted to travel, and ultimately work in or own a campground or some cabins. So I had to decide what to do with the house. I could rent it, sell it, or possibly lock it up and have it as a "winter place", assuming I come back in the winter. Either way, it needed work.
I decided to list it to see if it would sell "As Is". Well, it did. The same day I signed the Seller's Aggreement! I had about 2 weeks till closing and then 6 days after that to get out. Needless to say, the last few weeks have been very hectic and quite stressful. A lot of friends stepped up and helped out. Everything from garage sales, to working on my bike to dinners and dog sitting for me. Come to think of it, I've never had so many friends before. Do you think its because they WANT to help me get out of town? (8-)
Seriously, as stressful as its been, its gone very well. I've kept God in front of me along the way and let him lead. That's how I know selling the house is the right thing to do (and the lady buying the place is perfect for the location and the neighbors I leave behind). While I've had some minor trials, He's set things up pretty well.
So, as of tomorrow, I am "home free" as the title agent put it.
I'm heading to Chicago on the motorcycle for the Blues Fest this weekend. When I return, I'm picking up a Toyhauler, which is a 5th Wheel trailer with a 10' foot garage in the back part. Then, its on the road!
I'll post more, along with pictures, when I return and get parked somewhere and get some time.
In the mean time, here's the house I've spent quite a bit of the past 7 years in.
So, its back on the road, and as in the past,
Life is Good. Send Money.
Lon
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