Got my Trip Tik today!

[CanineCaravan]

After a very positive visit to UPENN today, (Finally got clearance for gall bladder surgery on the 11th---ugh, can't wait to get that thing out~!), my social worker and I decided to swing by AAA on the way home to get my Trip Tik made. They gave me tons of brochures, sight seeing stuff, and many camping/RV books that will definately enhance this journey. I'm so excited---the time to hit the road is drawing near!

I've decided to take about a week and a half/two weeks to get down there (provided my health holds up), and as mentioned previously, plan to camp from Jellystone Park to Jellystone park along the way. We've got lots of things to see and exciting places to visit in between now, and have set a reasonable, disability-accomodating driving schedule that I know I can easily achieve.

My social worker also gave me an idea...what do you guys think about this?? Much of my education program is geared towards children. Jellystone is all about the kids (which is exactly why we're doing those campgrounds!) My social worker said I should contact all the Jellystone's and offer to put on C&A programs while we're there...maybe even trade off in exchange for camping fees---I LOVE doing my program to anyone who is willing to take the time to see it, and this is something I'd really like to do. Is that a good idea, or something they might want to do?

[AlmostThere]

Kimberly,
Will be thinking of you on your surgery day. Glad that is scheduled.
And YES! I think the classes for the kids at Jellystone would be very welcomed. You and only ask, but I think they'd be silly to turn you down. Let us know!

[Bethers]

I think it would be an excellent thing to try - at any cg that caters to kids. You would have a great program to offer them and it's something you should do ahead of time - contact them with the idea and see if they are amenable - as they would need to schedule it. Now, the problem I see is this might not be the time of year that they'd have enough business to put that type of program on. Hope they do consider it and you get to do it - now or in the future.

That said, I think you'll be missing some beautiful spots if you stick to Jellystone cg's - try part of the ride on Skyline Dr (VA) and the Blue Ridge Parkway (NC and TN) - there are cg's located along the way and it's simply a gorgeous route. I highly recommend it. And you can learn lots along the way.

If you aren't staying more than a night at any one Jellystone, you really can't take advantage of the amenities. So, consider partly the idea of the route you want to take. I always try for most scenic over the highways, etc. But we each are different Most importantly enjoy.

Oh, I had my gall bladder out years and years ago in the OLD fashioned manner - and it was one of the best things I ever did. Hope you feel the difference immediately, also.

[CanineCaravan]

Kimberly,
Will be thinking of you on your surgery day. Glad that is scheduled.
And YES! I think the classes for the kids at Jellystone would be very welcomed. You and only ask, but I think they'd be silly to turn you down. Let us know!

Thank you so much. This is a very welcome surgery! it's been postponed three times because I've been too sick, so I'm really looking forward to the 11th to part ways with my gall bladder once and for all!

I'll keep you posted on the program--thanks for the vote of confidence

[CanineCaravan]

I think it would be an excellent thing to try - at any cg that caters to kids. You would have a great program to offer them and it's something you should do ahead of time - contact them with the idea and see if they are amenable - as they would need to schedule it. Now, the problem I see is this might not be the time of year that they'd have enough business to put that type of program on. Hope they do consider it and you get to do it - now or in the future.


Thank you, going to reach out to them and see how they feel about it! I'll keep you posted!



That said, I think you'll be missing some beautiful spots if you stick to Jellystone cg's - try part of the ride on Skyline Dr (VA) and the Blue Ridge Parkway (NC and TN) - there are cg's located along the way and it's simply a gorgeous route. I highly recommend it. And you can learn lots along the way.


I know that way is very beautiful, but I'm heading out through W. PA, Ohio and Ky. I hate the southern route for the traffic in DC/Baltimore, ect... I've taken it many times and have white knuckled it the entire way---just thinking about it makes me anxious! I don't want to feel that way with my brand new RV on the back!

There are things we wanted to see out the PA way, (Lancaster, wild animal parks, mining caves, ect), that we've put off, and are finally able to get to now!

If you aren't staying more than a night at any one Jellystone, you really can't take advantage of the amenities.
So, consider partly the idea of the route you want to take. I always try for most scenic over the highways, etc. But we each are different


We belong to the Jellystone club, and I'm staying at each Jellystone for at least three (sometimes four) days. Being a single parent of a seven year old, I like (and feel safe) at the Jellystones. They're managed by the same company, so whichever one you go to, you know you're going to be treated well (like family), and keep the campground safe, no loud drinking parties and inappropriate guests---they simply don't tolerate anything less than a wholesome, family atmosphere. Sarah and I are coming fresh out of an extremely traumatic series of attacks/stalking and into our freedom in TN----feeling safe and going with what I know and am completely comfortable is really important to me right now---still a bit shell shocked.

In addition to knowing that we'll be treated like family, I also like that Jellystones have a TON of stuff for the kids to do (all inclusive)---OR we can relax at the campsite. I totally see what you mean, but for this trip, the safety and familiarity of campgrounds is of paramount importance to us.




Most importantly enjoy.

Oh, I had my gall bladder out years and years ago in the OLD fashioned manner - and it was one of the best things I ever did. Hope you feel the difference immediately, also.

So glad to hear that about your experience with your gall bladder---mine's making me so sick; I can't imagine feeling anything but better when it comes out! Unfortunately, my other significant health issues have complicated the whole process and I've had to put it off several times. I'm sooo ready to part company once and for all!

Thanks so much for the advice.

[Liz]

I know you're excited about your trip...hope you'll post pictures. I think your idea is great...hope the cgs agree. I too will be thinking of you on surgery day and wish you a speedy recovery.

[bluepinecones]

Think the program at campgrounds sounds like a super idea.
I also agree with Bethers on traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway. Maybe you can do that another time.
Will be thinking of you on surgery day.

[Colliemom]

Best to you on your surgery day. You will be up and feeling fine in no time. And have lots of fun on your trip. Sounds like AAA gave you enough reading material while you are recuperating. And I think offering your program to Jellystone is a great idea too. Like the rest of the ladies said, all you can do is offer. The trip along the Blue Ridge is indeed beautiful, you should think about it or make sure to do it later.....

[CanineCaravan]

I know you're excited about your trip...hope you'll post pictures. I think your idea is great...hope the cgs agree. I too will be thinking of you on surgery day and wish you a speedy recovery.

Yes, this trip's a long time coming, and has great meaning to us...it's a new beginning; literally. We'll defiantely post pictures.

I hope the cgs agree too! I think it would be loads of fun, too---I know the dogs would love it!

thank you for the get well wishes!

[CanineCaravan]

Best to you on your surgery day. You will be up and feeling fine in no time. And have lots of fun on your trip. Sounds like AAA gave you enough reading material while you are recuperating. And I think offering your program to Jellystone is a great idea too. Like the rest of the ladies said, all you can do is offer. The trip along the Blue Ridge is indeed beautiful, you should think about it or make sure to do it later.....

Thank you for the get well wishes. I definately know I'll be feeling much better than I do now!

Lol...yeah, I have tons of material to go through, that's for sure! I do love the "one stop shopping" aspect of it, though!

I hope Jellystone goes for it, it'd be tons of fun, and the dogs could always use the extra practice time

I agree that the Blue Ridge is beautiful. I've done that several times before though. Will definately do it again another time, but we're really looking forward to getting back to Jellystone

[CanineCaravan]

Think the program at campgrounds sounds like a super idea.
I also agree with Bethers on traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway. Maybe you can do that another time.
Will be thinking of you on surgery day.

Thank you, I hope the cgs think it sounds like a super idea, too!

I totally agree with Bethers...and will definately do that another time!

Thank you for the thoughts on my surgery day---it can't come soon enough as far as I'm concerned

[bikerchic777]

My ex had his gall bladder out years ago. I remember how sick he got and they sent him home (military base) saying he had indigestion He almost died! He was jaundice and everything! Nothing to fool around with. Have the surgery and don't overdo it during recovery. Your idea at the cg's sounds cool! I say go for it! The worst they can say is no .

[CanineCaravan]

My ex had his gall bladder out years ago. I remember how sick he got and they sent him home (military base) saying he had indigestion He almost died! He was jaundice and everything! Nothing to fool around with. Have the surgery and don't overdo it during recovery. Your idea at the cg's sounds cool! I say go for it! The worst they can say is no .

Wow, thank God his problem was discovered in time. What a shame that he had to go through that, though! Glad he's okay.

Yes, I'm planning on taking it easy. I have a brain injury & MS, so any major stressor aggrevates them, so I have no choice but to rest! Thank goodness for a great hospital staff and wonderful social workers!!

Thanks for the vote for the program at the cg's! I emailed them with my idea tonight... I'll keep you posted.

[cpatinjones]

I think it is a great idea. Ask!

[snowball]

I remember when I had mine out and yes it was the old fashioned way! after I'd healed from hurting from the surgery I thought wow I feel good don't remember feeling this good for a long time....I think it was so gradual that I didn't realize how bad I felt...so just keep think I'll feel better!!!
we are camp ground hosts and think if we had someone offer to give us a program we would accept it...although we are not in position to say you get an amount off the site...we work for a company that contracted to the national forest so that part we couldn't do but the program would be great!
sheila