Eighteen months ago we began this RV nomadic lifestyle with certain assumptions and general goals in mind. One of those goals was possibly identifying a location we could envision living in when this full-time mobile lifestyle ends.
To that point, whenever we are in a new area we often discuss if we could see ourselves living there. Of course, these discussions are only based on first impressions and in reality, a decision as important as this would require much more due diligence. Montana has been the first place I’ve answered that question positively “YES,” even considering their cold winters. But beyond the beautiful landscape, outdoor lifestyle and friendly people there’s the hardship of being so far from family and dear friends which would probably make it untenable for us. Fortunately, we’re in no hurry yet to stop traveling.
Being exposed to changing environments, we’re sometimes reminded not to prejudge based on limited or questionable previous experiences. Life has a way of correcting ill-conceived assumptions, leaving one feeling foolish after the true situation is known.
These photos are a few among many made during a drive south on Hwy 89 from Livingston, MT, to Gardener, MT, and the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The valley which Hwy 89 follows is aptly named Paradise Valley — breathtaking beauty!
Concerning holidays, as RV’ers we make it a point to arrive at our chosen park before the holiday begins and stay put till it’s over and the locals and vacationers have a chance to return home. For the 4th of July we try to also choose one where they don’t allow fireworks, for Maggie’s sake.
Definitely looks like a great place to visit, Brooks. But you would want to spend some time there in the winter before deciding about whether it is a place to live. It looks like a picture postcard perfect representation of the term Big Sky Country
With all recent climate disruptions, Tom, I don’t know if one could be certain what a “typical” Montanna winter was any longer — even if they spent a whole winter here. :-)
I also said the same thing while working as a flight attendant. I would check out each overnight location or non-rev trip I took to see what intrigued me and what was not of interest to me. And, alas the saying is true that there is no perfect place but lots of paradises.
Monte, I think you’d agree paradise is more a state of mind than a place. However, when we question ourselves about likes and not likes we often find out more about what makes us tick and what made us who we are. At the moment Bonnie and I are enjoying this lifestyle too much to be concerned about a final stopping place…but we know that could change at any point…so we continue thinking about this.