Lets talk about campgrounds

Since the time I was little, I have been "camping"...that fun event done in a wilderness setting alongside a river or tucked away in woods. An activity where a shower consisted of dunking your head in a 45 degree stream or lake and a pit toilet was considered a luxury. Since the beginning of this trip however, my idea of camping have shifted slightly and have come to learn how the other half lives. I thought this morning, while I hide in a hotel room from the mouse in our van, that I would share with you a few of the things that I have learned/come to appreciate over the past week and a half.

1. DO NOT be fooled by names like Paradise, Oasis or Haven - In fact, these should be thought of as huge red flags that this particular establishment has dashing views of the interstate and you could perhaps become high on diesel fumes by the time the night is thru!

2. Prices are always negotiable - After paying the listed $29 night number one, we have since become much stingier and more aggressive in our bargaining for cheaper rates. In addition to a AAA discount (thanks Nan and Pop) virtually everywhere, also a sweet smile and promise not to hook up to said electrical sockets can go a long way. Often perplexed that we have no tent, convincing them that the Bullet Train certainly does not qualify for an RV has proved possible time and time again. Especially if its Miss Montana behind the counter!

3. All showers are not created equal - Ranging from beautiful tiled creations with solid closing doors and private dressing rooms to nasty plastic wall showers with mold covered curtains and the infamous Push Button water feature...come on people, have you ever tried showering in one of your own push button jobs? Push the button and by the time you turn and reach for the soap the water goes off again...drop the soap while trying to reach for the button again, now shivering because the water has been off for a good 10 seconds. Not to mention, these do not have a hot/cold control, therefore leaving you either scalded or freezing if heaven for bid someone in the men's room should flush the toilet. Again, all showers are not created equal!

4. Golf Carts - What can I say, the main mode transportation around campgrounds by those maintaining the grounds. No license or age limit required! And in fact, throughout parts of Wyoming and Montana, the golf cart or four wheeler as it may be are often seen and accepted on local roadways. Just nod your head and smile when pulling up beside one at a red light or gas pump!

5. Most folks frequenting RV parks are of retirement age - As you all know, I have nothing against this population and in fact have felt a certain connection with them my entire life. Now, immersed in their culture on a day to day basis I am quite enjoying it. Go to bed early...or stay up late...sleep till 10, drink your coffee, sit on the patio or walk around the park. Decide at your leisure where to head next. Those who think retired folks must be bored and not know what to do with themselves...I can assure (now from experience) this is not the case!

6. Laundry room encounters can be awkward - While folding laundry or waiting for the infamous machine to stop spinning the common courtesy is to make small talk with those around you, speaking of your travels, home towns, etc. However, when the conversation turns to "I think that other man there might have your sock in his dryer"...now things get a little strange. Especially when said man is the bud light drinking, long haired character just coming in to check his dryer. When politely questioned about the state of my sock (would not have bothered if it was not a new $14 sock!) he responds, "oh, is that yours? I had myself some company last night at the local motel and thought maybe I had just picked up one of hers!" Really dude, just give me my stinking sock...and I ran!!!

7. Bathroom encounters...even worse than laundry - Sharing a public bathroom for days on end can prove to be interesting at times. While most people politely do their thing and leave, there are others that feel the need to explain themselves. While doing my hair, being forced to listen to others "private duties" are bad enough. Worse however, is when they exit and feel the need to state "these new fangled space ship things...they must be water savers or something, it takes at least four flushes to make anything go down!" Ok lady, I quickly mumble something about that one maybe not working right and exit...fast!

Ok, so there you have it. My thoughts on the joys of campground existence, more to come I'm sure!