Donstar

An unnecessary war for the most part, imo. Disputes over basic precautions like social distancing and wearing a mask should not be occurring anywhere. Leaders encouraging activities that contradict common sense and medically supported practices can't be ignored as a cause for conflict. The learning curve throughout the world over the past few months has been huge. There is enough information to mandate safe and effective practices without "closing down" everything. I like to believe that for the most part individuals are practicing safe behaviors and this is why those who disregard the new normal make the 6 0'clock news!

I'm sorry to hear about your health issues and I appreciate there are people unable to wear a mask. I will continue to wear a mask to protect your liberty. I am very thankful that others are doing the same for me in return.

This would be true if knowledge of catching the virus was instantaneous. In the days, weeks (or never) leading up to your awareness, your gift spreads like branches on a tree. I found that wearing a mask can also be contagious. Others recognize that you are wearing a mask out of respect for them. There is no excuse for a person who is able to wear a mask not to wear a mask.

I believe the "argument" was in support of wearing masks. This is such an effortless step and it is unconscionable why anyone who is able would be so selfish to be bare faced in public. Your example is part of the much larger issue. We all agree that no one should go hungry and focus should be on ensuring this doesn't happen. Minimizing the spread of Covid 19 requires doing things differently. Keeping our citizens with the necessities of life does not mean letting the pandemic do its thing while life carries on as before. A mask is a simple, effective step an individual can take with no negative outcomes. The big issues will be insurmountable if we feel we have to protest such simple, basic precautions as wearing a mask. As an aside, I understand the hesitation/embarrassment/self-consciousness/ awkwardness some may feel when initially adding a mask to their good looks. I felt strange at first but now I feel embarrassed when not wearing a mask in public.

I am not an expert in the transmission of this disease and I know theories abound. I also am entertained by how masks are used sometimes but I give credit to all for trying. The greatest value for me is that a mask indicates the person is aware and making an effort. Our 6'oclock news showed the president of the US finally wearing a mask yesterday which I suspect will bring more stragglers on board. I seriously believe that anyone still minimizing the impact of this virus is exceptionally uninformed or.... Some use inconsistencies, big or small, as an excuse from doing what they can to minimize the spread. We need to look at the big picture and unite in our efforts. I worked in the public school system for 35 years and can't believe sending all kids back to school is seen as a good idea with this virus so out of control.

Karnut is right. There are some very nice, lighter trailers for 1/2 tons. We found the Winnebago line a good balance of size ,comfort, looks, weight and price. If the trailer you are proposing is your first, you will have a poor trailering experience. Just the extra fuel and underwear you will go through will be shocking and spoil your experience. Rent a trailer or two first and take some trial trips. It will cost you but may save you a whole lot more!

Everyone should experience a good work truck or "shop truck". They give you a realistic experience as to the potential of a domestic truck. I "grew up" with shop trucks at my disposal. You wouldn't want to take out a new date in one but they could always be relied upon to transport you and a load anywhere, anytime. A little clunk, rattle or the occasional extended service interval didn't mean catastrophic failure was pending. I appreciate the importance of regular and proper maintenance but sometimes I feel we have a tendency to overdo the coddling of our trucks.

I don't carry, but the first thing that came to my mind is: ?

Very interesting option. It sort of has a structure like a time share except you own the unit. I am sure they do a thorough job of cleaning between rentals but I wouldn't be comfortable with others (strangers) using my bed and "facilities" on such a frequent basis. However, next time I'm in Texas, I may rent!

I generally find family doctors to be apolitical with matters pertaining to my health. I also find they are generally willing to write a prescription upon request for a specific drug if I feel one is needed. As long as he/she sees no harm, such as conflicts with other medication, my requests are supported. (As an aside, I ask these questions in an effort to minimize the use of drugs. I will not take a drug that is unproven or I suspect is prescribed on the basis of it "won't hurt.") I believe the "malaria drug" was/is highly politicized and you know I try to avoid the political banter. However, I am curious as to what your doctor said about the actual efficacy of this drug in treating this particular virus.

Renting is an option but comes with some risk. The cleaning required after each rental would also be significant. However, it may be worthwhile as RV ownership is expensive. I have known people who used "Van conversions" as their second vehicle. In the 70's vans were popular daily drivers. I owned a 'couple of Econoline's and often "camped" with them. We sold our trailer last winter as the costs for the limited use did not make sense. We envisioned frequent and spontaneous road trips with our trailer but discovered a significant amount of pre-planning and setup was needed. Your camper van idea has got me thinking..... (my poor wife!)

I agree that it should come down.

This is the widely accepted understanding. Wearing a mask is a selfless act and requires minimal effort for most people. I always wear a mask when I am about to enter a situation where maintaining social distance will be difficult. Non-surgical masks are readily available and plentiful. I wear a mask for the protection of others. Thankfully, people in my area (including politicians) are doing the same which protects me! ?

I believe this is the reason for the spike in RV sales and why we bought a travel trailer a couple of years ago. Travelling with a refrigerator and washroom in tow can take a lot of stress out of long distance travel!

It's interesting how things evolve/change. I can now walk by a store display of toilet tissue, hand sanitizer and/or masks without purchasing my daily limit! Most stores and services that I use are open and operating in a very safe manner. I went to a foam shop on Saturday to purchase firmer material for our couch. I laughed when the owner told me how busy he was filling similar orders. People are spending a lot of time at home and realizing their furniture is uncomfortable. He also says his requests for boat and RV material are the highest ever! I know that there are people who still resist complying with a new normal but resistance only serves to slow down our ability to get and keep this virus under control. The owner of this small foam shop was employing exceptionally safe practices. You had no choice but to comply! The upside is that when it was my turn, I had his undivided attention and my needs were handled in an extremely efficient manner!

Tomorrow is a big day in the US! I hope not to see our Saturday evening news focus on huge crowds defying social distancing practices! I know it's easy to excuse good habits because it is a day of celebration and "everyone else is doing it" but doing your part to battle this crisis demonstrates a far greater loyalty, imo. I celebrated Canada Day (153rd) without breaking any rules of our new normal and in a manner that made it the most memorable since our 100th! Have a safe and happy Independence Day, friends! ?

The mask movement is really interesting to observe. In my area, it is enforced in specific venues. The pressure to wear a mask elsewhere on a consistent basis comes in part from peer/public pressure. There are also some very cool looking masks that are appealing to the fashion conscious! A couple of months ago, I thought those wearing a mask were "over doing" it and now I think the bare faced people are behaving selfishly. I know masks can be problematic for some health issues but not in the numbers we see on the news. The issues of their effectiveness, comfort and appearance have all been addressed. It is unfortunate that at this stage in the pandemic that fines need to be implemented in order for some to comply to basic, common sense, safety measures. The message is arriving very slowly to some people.

I spent three summers in the US when going to University. July 4th is a very spectacular day and I hope everyone enjoys their day! You can have fun without standing "shoulder to shoulder" with people who do not live in your house. Yesterday, my wife and I were on the go and out of the house for most of the day. We saw and spoke with a lot of people. Open venues were busy and public places like beaches and parks were heavily used. With the exception of my wife, I never felt the need to be within 6' of anyone. I had ample opportunity but if I'm not part of the solution, that means I'm part of the problem.

Great photo! I'd be worried if I was the one up to bat!

Yesterday was our equivalent to your 4th of July and it was unique. The 6 o'clock news was full of special ways people chose to safely honor the day. I actually believe more people made a greater effort to make their appreciation heard! Even my lame dog's buggy was decked in Canadian flags! This day is also the same as my wife's (of 40+ years) birthday. She reports this was the best birthday ever so I'll also take this as a win! Your 4th of July will be different but celebrate (safely) for the reasons you've done in the past! I hope you wake up the next day remembering what a fun day it was and how lucky you are to be in this great country! I did!

Give it a try! It never ceases to amaze me how much they are able to remotely communicate with a specific device. As an aside, your issue may be with your computer. My wife and I have very similar laptops and often find ourselves sitting side by side while online. Her connection would go in and out of consciousness while mine remained fully operational. Research led me to deleting and reinstalling a driver with successful results.

My great TV upgrade project found the portal for my secondary TV quit working. The cable provider tried some remote fixes but concluded I need a home visit from a technician. Unfortunately, techs are not entering homes at this time so I was asked to wait until things get "back to normal". An hour later I called again and reported I don't want to wait. I said I have some technical ability and some equipment. Can I do something? To my surprise, the tech I was speaking to this time said, "Let's work together and resolve this issue." Thirty minutes later, everything was working and I was outside enjoying the sun! Over the past week, I've phoned my cable/internet provider several times. Of course, you never get the same person twice. I often wonder what the screen in front of them says about me! ? My wife thinks they pick straws before they answer my calls.... Anyway, this last tech I spoke to was a rock star in my view. There are many outstanding customer support people in large organizations but it certainly is exciting when you come across one who stands out above the rest!

As you know, many readers are now focussing on the accuracy of these numbers rather than what they indicate. ? If you're still not caring about the distance you are keeping from others and not consistently wearing a clean mask in public then it's time to get on board! Simply washing hands regularly and avoiding old people are not doing the trick. There are a lot of distractions but nothing stopping you from taking personal responsibility.

In my area, masks and social distancing are definitely the new normal. I wear a mask in consideration of others and to show I'm doing my part to help keep this threat under control. I am fortunate that my friends, family and leaders model similar behavior. This takes away any of the shyness or embarrassment I may feel from wearing a face covering. I am of the opinion that "shutting down again" wouldn't be necessary if everyone maintained social distancing, wore a clean mask in public and washed hands frequently. I don't feel confined to my home and will not enter into a situation (like going to the beach) if I can't maintain these basic requirements. I appreciate that not every region or person embraces these practices consistently. I'm not confident that I'd be so careful if my respected peers or leaders mocked these simple strategies. I had to take a close friend of thirty years to a medical appointment a few weeks ago. She got into the car wearing a mask and I was deeply touched by this caring gesture. A few months ago I would have felt insulted! ?

Nice to see old threads visit! I like this colour but I wouldn't choose it or variant for my next truck. I never get tired of black or red pickups with the occasional blue one to add variety! ?