There’s something comforting about sitting on the same couch every morning with my cup of tea, but having the view change out the window.
Even if I venture outside, I still have my same outdoor chair and fluffy pillow at my back, tea sitting on the used and abused aluminum fold-up table.
Same stuff, different view.
This is my comfort zone.
It is up to me to step out of it.
You must know that I am an introvert—a shy introvert. I spend a lot of time sitting solo at my computer. Some days, I actually lose my voice from lack of use.
Talking to people parked near us is mostly a cordial hello in passing. Yet, we can hear each other in our separate conversations because in most RV parks and resorts, you are parked within 10 feet of each other. And motorhome walls are not thick and sometimes you get the feeling that they want more than a hello. This is the case for us at our current spot.
We had a nice chat with them as we pulled in. Every day since we arrived, the couple has been sitting outside. (On a side note, I’m not ready to sit in a fold-up chair all day drinking Bloody Marys.)
We are both here for two weeks, so I have a feeling I may need to get outside my comfort zone and do a little socializing. Our work can be a bit isolating, even though we talk to a lot of people in our work.
But I know I need to design my social life, or risk becoming an unsociable hermit.
We took a chance many years ago, just as we left Alaska in our little trailer and were staying in southern Utah. It was Easter morning, and we were taking a walk around the park.
A couple was sitting outside their motorhome at a small outdoor table with a pitcher of Sangria and four glasses. They invited us over, and our friendship began. They were from Switzerland and had some great stories to share.
We still visit them when we are in the area. (They were parked there because they were building a house nearby.)
The lesson they taught us was to seek out those relationships. Have four glasses out when there are just the two of you.
It is possible to have a strong social life while living the RV lifestyle, but it is up to you to make that happen.
Today I will step out of my comfort zone and get to know our neighbors a little bit better.
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RVT1227
I have learned putting out 4 chairs is more likely to have someone stop for a more-than-a-hello chat
Great idea Mike.
Yes. RVing can be a wonderful way to become a more social person. But keep in mind there are some people who are jerks, and some who are camping to ‘get away from it all’ which includes the rest of us, don’t take it personally if people don’t want to socialize.
I get it and I think we all go through various stages. RVers are just people in a smaller community. I have found most to be willing to help when help is needed.
Agreed we’re all totally different 99%
Sandi,
I like the advice about the four glasses!
Let’s give it a try!
Thank you for the discussion and illustrative story, Sandi! I just take out our ladder and begin cleaning our windshield after a day of driving in order to become engaged by passers-by. After realizing they cannot afford to hire me to clean their RV, a conversation usually ensues. 😉 Have a great day and safe travels!