Seeing how other people live/vacation/survive?

Who are we to judge another person's way of living, style of dress, political, sexual or religious persuasion? I strive to be an open-minded and accepting person, but I've always struggled with that "judging" thing, especially when it came to tidiness.

I remember way back in 1973, taking the Harlem Line down to Grand Central Station every day that I worked in NYC, and being saddened by the poverty all along the route. I always found myself being judgmental about the "untidy" factor, because even in my most frugal of times, I might not have had much, but I took great pride in keeping what I had neat and orderly.

The train ride afforded me views of tenement buildings where sheets were used as curtains (something I've had to do), yet the sheets were hung askew and garbage was thrown out the windows to the alleys below. That caused me to judge the people who resided behind those "curtains." Since they had no respect for themselves or their precious possessions, I could not muster respect for them. There  is a difference between being poor and being slovenly. 

Yesterday and today, we viewed different styles of habitation and found myself "absorbed" by the different, rather than "judging" the different. I found a redeeming quality in each of the unique abodes we came across. It was quite interesting - as the photos below depict.

Last night we stayed at Snow Shoe RV Park in Snow Shoe, PA. It was a nice, level park with friendly owners/managers. They couldn't say enough nice things about our RV and were excited that we were parking right in front, where everyone could see it. We chatted awhile about who we are and where we're going. My story was met with a lot of "oohs" and "ahhs." reminding me to stop and give thanks for all we have and for all we do. We promised to stop by again with stories of our westward travels if our return trip passed their park.

Tonight, we opted for a bargain-priced stay at the local Walmart in Norwalk, PA, located close to I-80. I always love staying for free and since it's a rainy night, it will be easy sleeping with the rhythmic drumming of the raindrops on the roof of the RV. The temps should also drop so we won't need to worry about running the generator.

This was parked in the abandoned Freight Liquidators parking lot in Fishkill, NY. Although it made me sad to think anyone would need to live in this very basic shelter, it must at least be meeting the needs of a person who is taking pride in what little they have. So for this I had respect.

Pennsylvania: The Keystone State -  Capitol is Harrisburg and largest city is Philadelphia.

Our view  from Snow Shoe RV Park in Snow Shoe, PA - The blue tarp covered their common dining area. Functional and family oriented.

I loved this one. It had to be from the 1950's and lovingly maintained. Small, functional and funky.

Ohio:  The Buckeye State, Capitol and largest city is Columbus.

Norwalk, Ohio Walmart. Clean, neat, functional and free!

Deep thought for the day: Stop often and give thanks for what you have and spend less time  wishing for the things you don't. ~ vc

Off and running...

Loving the sun and nap time. 

Since Friday, June 24th, we have been residing at our NY "home," Croton Point Park. While here, we have relocated a total of three times in order to be in compliance with the new "rules and regs" at the park. This morning, bright and early, George got the ball rolling and we hit the road under beautiful, clear blue skies. 

The planning began in February and here we are, July 28th - day 1 of our "3rd Great Big Adventure." First stop will be an overnighter in (or near) Snow Shoe, PA. We will be following Route 80 for the first portion of the trip and eventually drift up to Route 90. Thirteen stops (yes, 13-but if I count in our origination, it's 14) have been penciled in for the westward bound journey. Some are just overnighters and some are extended stays.  I'll blog when time and connectivity permit.

Our time spent at Croton Point had been busy and hectic with many visits with friends, family and doctors. We love staying here for its close proximity to the three reasons just stated, and besides, it's one of Lucy's favorite places for birding, seeing familiar dogs and permitting visits from people she likes (and has come to like even more during this trip). In addition to the birds, this park offers a beautiful river, lush, green foliage and magnificent sunsets. It's the best place to call "home" in the area. We checked out the next-closest campground, Sylvan Lake, and were significantly underwhelmed. Our fingers will be crossed that a site will be available in Croton when we return in October.  

Our itinerary has been updated and uploaded under the tab marked, "2016 Journey." Just click there if you are interested to know where we are or where we will be headed next.

Stay tuned....

One of only three sushi dinners. This one with friends, Butch and Dawn.

2nd sushi inner with Charlie at Sakura! Delicious and fun, as usual.

"The Last Supper," before leaving for the west coast. Take out by myself, but good!

I always get my "doggie" fix with my three Croton canine friends pictured below. With their owner out of commission after having knee surgery, I was afforded the opportunity to get in abit of exercise by helping out with walking duties. My other "doggie" friend, Georgia, wasn't around much during our recent stay, but I did get to see her and get a nice wet kiss on the lips before leaving!

#1 Walking buddy - Big boy, Ruger - a gentle giant.

4-1/2 pound walking partner - Chloe - She determined the route.

My Croton buddy - Buddy....no long walks for him anymore.

Great traveler pictured below...her tail is ready to visit more states and view the Pacific Ocean!

Bird watching. She spent countless hours watching the action at the window feeder.

Deep though for the day:  Days, although they can seem long at times, actually flicker by quicker than a lightening bug on a hot summer evening. Now you see me - now you don't.  ~ vc