greetings from Indiana

[duke3522]

Hi, my name is Duke, I will be turning 50 soon, and I stand 6' 7" tall. I have been caring for my dad the last 3 years, and he recently passed away as a result of his mixed dementia. I thank the Gods every day that dad is finally at peace. The last 2 months he was at home was a horrible experience, but I honored my father, and kept him at home as long as I could.

I am telling this story not for sympathy, but more to explain what seems to most a crazy plan. I am going to run away from home. The reasons are many fold. This is the house I grew up in, I have watched both my mother and father decline to the point of death here, and I want to be on the road one more time. Also, I simply no longer want the responsibility of the house anymore. These last 3 years took a toll on me, and I don't believe I can find a way to.heal my soul here.

Enough of the heavy stuff! I am also looking to have fun. And a TD seems to fit in well with my plans to simply wonder around the country for the next 4 or 5 years. To go to, and actually see the Grand Canyon. To spend a Christmas in Key West, and see a RedSox game on top of the Green Monster.

At first my plan was to be a simple van dweller, sleeping and living out of a van during my wondering. But when I came across this great site I knew a TD would be a great help along the way. Making room to carry more tools and equipment I will need on my journey.

I am looking forward to getting to work on my TD, and getting to know the folks on this great forum. I hope everyone will be a little patient with me. I am not a natural at.building anything, and will probably ask a bunch of stupid questions.

Looking forward to getting my TD started! Get my frame, and get to work.

[prohandyman]

Duke
Welcome to the fun. Teardrops are contagious!
Where in Indiana are you? I am in Greenwood, and build them as well.
This forum is a great place for info!

[Shadow Catcher]

Greetings, I am sure others would suggest that you join Tearjerkers (see link above) but I beat them to it. Come to some of the gatherings meet others and have fun, and see what others have done. We will be at the ones in Ohio and adjoining states and who knows where else with our new grasshopper design teardrop.
Being the primary care giver is beyond stressful but now it is time for you to come and have some fun

[pat g]

Hi Duke,

I am really new to this forum as well. Your story moved me to reply. I know what it is like to watch your parents decline. I hope that your healing journey brings you peace. Good luck on your build!

Pat G

[duke3522]

Thanks everyone its great to be here. I've moved to the point if no return. Told my brothers and sister that I am going on my journey, and they have to sell the house. Just put my share in the bank.

At the risk of exposing my building skills, I am going to document my build very well. Heck, my best bud Greggee, best damn mechanic I know except for his dad, say he'll come by every night and redo everything right! I guess we shall see.

No matter what it should be fun!

[LDK]

Hey Duke

Good luck on your teardrop. You'll have alot of fun believe me.

[Wild Bill]

Welcome to the madness. I admire you wanting to get away, I would love to escape for a while, 5 years is a long time, I would also look at a couple of "full time" RV Living sites so that you will get a feel for what to expect on the road. Not sure what your outdoor living experiences are and what you have to tow with. With fuel prices soaring you may want to find an area you like and stay a few weeks and move on to the next adventure. Also check out Boondocking, places were you can spend the night without paying the $35 per night fees. Tons of information on this and other sites that will help you prepare for your adventure. You may want to try a standee if you plan to be on the road for months at a time or longer and want to be able to pick up and move on fast. Lots of people are "full timers" Good luck Bill