Travel N Dreams: The year 2011 comes to an end

Last year at this time I was still working for Western Geco, traveling to and from the boat was a big pain in the ass. However that was not the main reason I decided it was time to leave, I did not like the boat I was assigned to and had the distinct feeling that I was "NOT" a welcome member of the crew. Always felt like everyone was avoiding me and never could find out why. I believe it was because I was American and most of the crew was not. So I started a new chapter of my life as a working gypsy or otherwise know a workamper.

So far this first year has been okay but not great, I found work for only three months out of the year, my goal is to work six to nine months of the year. I need the work because of my age 57 and the fact that it will be 5 to 8 years before I can collect on anything including my 401K.

Other then work this has been a great first year, have traveled to a lot of places in the good old USA that I have always wanted to see. Have made new friends from all over the country some I see on facebook others I just miss. I am hoping this year to see some old friends as I head West and make some new ones.

The expense of living this life is cheaper then a house or apartment but still not cheap. Example is what I have spent in the last year to get my rig in the best shape I can, it is an older motor home so take a bit more care to insure it is running right. Spent $900 on new tires, $4000 on Transmission, $1800 on turn-ups (2) oil change (2) Transmission checkup (1) and replacement of belts and hoses, $440 on brake repair. So what does that come to for the first year??? $7,140 ouch!!!!!! But if living in an "AVG" apartment paying rent of $600 a month that alone would be $7,200 a year plus all the utilities. So I figure I broke even this first year, hoping the second year will be better.

Following Photos are my Favorites of the year 2011 enjoy and Happy New Year...