When what to her wondering eyes should appear . . .

Twas the night before Christmas,

When all through the BLT . . .                                                                                                         Not a creature was stirring, not even Spikey,                                                                               The antenna was mounted on the bumper with care,                                                                    In hopes a strong signal soon would be there.

Bridget and Spike were nestled snug in their beds,                                                                 While visions of roasted chicken danced in their heads.                                                           And RVSue in her jammies with socks on her feet,                                                                    Had just settled in for a long winter’s sleep.

The glow of the laptop soon drew RVSue near,                                                                             Go back to bed, Bridget.  There’s nothing to fear.                                                                    When what to her wondering eyes should appear,                                                                      But a page full of comments from the blogosphere!

With some really fast typing, so lively and quick,                                                                    RVSue answered all, including friend Mick.                                                                              More rapid than eagles, the comments they came.                                                                     And she responded to each, and called them by name!

And then in a twinkling, RVSue stepped outside,                                                                       And beheld the PTV, her tow vehicle ride,                                                                                    The crew on the bench seat safely inside, she gave a loud call,                                            “Come Full Timers, Come Newbies, Come Wannabes, All!”

She sprang to the PTV, to her crew gave a whistle,                                                                         And away they all flew like the down of a thistle,                                                                        But I heard her exclaim, ‘ere she drove out of sight . . .

Christmas Eve 2012 at American Girl Mine Road

“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~  

rvsue (and Clement Moore, kinda)

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180 Responses to When what to her wondering eyes should appear . . .

  1. Aw, really nice, Sue. I hope the spirit of the season reaches and touches you and your canine kids.

  2. mockturtle says:

    Delightful rendition, Sue! And I wish you a very Merry Christmas, too, and a Happy New Year!

  3. Alice and Rudy Scheibelhofer, Chilliwack, BC Canada says:

    Didn’t know you were such a great poet! Merry Christmas to the three of you.
    Alice & Rudy Scheibelhofer
    Chilliwack, BC Canada

  4. geogypsy2u says:

    Just perfect. You are a marvelous poet with the help of your friend C. Moore.

    Merry Christmas to you and the crew.

  5. Rita says:

    Absolutely love the poem! About 200 miles north of Phoenix, it’s snowing! Sista says it’s 32 degrees on Navajo Rez….they are all snuggled into their warm house w/wood stove (no central heating or A/C). Navajo shoe game tournament going on in Window Rock…and winter story telling a t local Chapter houses. Merry Christmas again Sue and Canine Crew (Spike & Bridget).

  6. Jack says:

    Bahahaha! Looks like spike is being held captive!

  7. gingerda says:

    Ahh, I loved the Christmas poem. Cute picture of you and the crew.

  8. Mark says:

    That was great Sue. Merry Christmas and thanks for taking us on a fun filled year of travels. Wishing you and the crew the best in the new year.
    Mark
    Salina ks

  9. Gene says:

    Sue. Were at Quartzsite. In the past two days, read all your posts from the begining. You ‘da man. (sic) Feelt like I was reading my own bo. It’s a wonderful world. (sometimes) Looking out at the desert (we’re away from town; no one nearby) I reflect on all that’s behind and revel in the future!

    Gene

  10. CT says:

    Fabulous Christmas poetry! A very Merry Christmas to you & the crew!

  11. Sharpei Mom says:

    Merry Christmas Sue n Crew! May the New Year bring you wonderful adventures.
    Now ya know how to get a family picture…hang on ta Spike…Bridget is always close.

  12. DesertHawk says:

    Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo.

  13. Merry Christmas to you Sue and the Crew!
    Sharon from Fla.

  14. Pat says:

    Merry Christmas to you and the crew!!!!!!

  15. Maggie in Vermont says:

    Merry Christmas from Vermont (where it is, indeed, a white Christmas). Strong hugs, girl, strong hugs.

  16. earthdancerimages says:

    Thank you Sue for your year long gift of words! Gonna finally get a bit of cold weather here, but not snow in south central New Mexico this year! Loved your Christmas poem! Merry Christmas and know that you are loved by all of us who read and comment here. I wish you warmth, sunny skies and saguaro cacti on your horizon!

  17. Donna P says:

    What a wonderful Christmas Eve treat!!! Thanks, Sue!!!

  18. Chuck says:

    A great rendition, Sue! You continue to amaze me….and you haven’t even written your 1st book yet! Thank you for bringing so much enjoyment into our lives, hope to meet up in 2013!

  19. tinycamper says:

    What a fun Christmas greeting! Hope you, Spike and Bridget have a wonderful day tomorrow.

  20. cinandjules (NY) says:

    That was great!

    Glad you finally got in the picture with the crew. Ah hah…Spike can’t “exit stage left” if mom is holding him! Love the smile on your face!

    Merry Christmas…nite nite…sleep well!

  21. Marcia GB says:

    Loved your version, Sue. Hope you and the crew enjoy a Merry and Peaceful Christmas!

  22. Barb says:

    LOVE THIS!!! Happy Christmas to my new friend Sue! Have enjoyed your blog SO much this last few months… Every time, I open it up–my shoulders relax, and a smile comes to my face.
    Blessings be!

  23. mary ann (pontotoc, ms) says:

    wonderful poem! my rattie lucky is finally snuggled in too. love & prayers for you & the crew

  24. Alison PNW says:

    Brilliant! Merry Christmas, and happy Solstice too!

  25. Sandie says:

    Merry Christmas to you and the crew.

  26. Nan says:

    Merry Christmas, Sue and the same to the crew.

  27. Tawnya says:

    Merry Christmas Aunt Susan. I love and miss you.

  28. Judie says:

    Merry Christmas to u and the crew! Loved ur post!

  29. Jeff says:

    Merry Christmas Miss Sue.. Your blog is a gift!

  30. kristine barr says:

    Loved the poem! Merry christmas to you too!

  31. Pam Wright says:

    As a former elementary teacher, I really appreciate your clever rewrite! Great job!

    Merry Christmas to you and the crew!

  32. Miss Vickie says:

    Clever, as always! Merry Christmas and enjoy your peace and stress free holiday! My family is hearing a lot of “I wish I were RVSue living in the desert by myself!” these days!! 🙂

  33. Merry Christmas to RV Sue and the Crew! Here’s to an amazing 2013!

  34. Cari In Texas says:

    Merry Christmas, Sue, Spike and Bridget! They are predicting a (short-lived) snowstorm for us tomorrow, about 1-2 inches, so your desert picture looks inviting! I’m looking forward to sharing more of your adventures in the new year, and hopefully joining you, at least part time, on the road.

  35. Dedra says:

    Awesome!
    You have given me so much by your blog.
    A new dream! Dream it, Plan it, Do it!
    I now have a 2010 Casita Liberty.
    Blessings,

  36. Mel (Melanie from NV) says:

    Merry Christmas RVSue, Bridget & Spike from Gary, Mel & Kori – this is one of your best posts ever!!! I LOVED IT!!! I hope all of you have a wonderful Christmas Day –
    p.s. Thank you for the gift of your blog, it is sort of Christmas every day of the year from you to all of your loyal readers….

  37. Timber n' me says:

    Sweet!!!!!! n’ a Merry Christmas to you, Sue and the crew,,,,,,,,,and Every bloger too,,,,,,,,,,,,,Timber n’ Me

    • JuliaG says:

      ~Merry Christmas Rusty & Timber~

    • earthdancerimages says:

      Chuck and I wish a very Merry CHRISTmas for you and Timber! Enjoy your cookies, hope Timber likes the peanut butter doggie treats! 🙂

      • Timber n' me says:

        Hey, Chuck n’ family, thanks, Timber loves peanut butter, cookies, ice creamn’ off the spoon, he even likes Abazaba. we don’t over do it cause us guy’s haf ta stay in shape, You folks hav a great CHRISTmas too,,,,,,,,,,,,,,see ya n’ bless ya,,,,,,,,,,,,,Timber n’ me,(rusty)

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thinking of you, Rusty and Timber, on Christmas Day, and wishing you many happy years together.

      • Timber n' me says:

        Thanks, Sue, with th’ trust I have in Jesus, I’m purty shure he will guide us on this road we all travel on til he takes us all home with Him And His Dad,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,God Bless n’ Merry Christmas,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,n’ Thanks again,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Timber N’ Rusty

  38. carol says:

    thought you were holding Miss Goody, whoever it is you’re not gonna be able to do it much longer.
    then it’s Spikee who has a brisket.Talk about people on glass houses,me with two Aussies, each with twenty pounds over breed standard, shoulda trained them long ago not to beg at the table!

  39. Robin Harp says:

    Love it! Merry Christmas Sue, Bridget, and Spike! 🙂

  40. mitchell says:

    Well Done!

    Merry Christmas to you, RVSue. And I hope you have a fantastic 2013.

  41. cathieok says:

    merry Christmas to Sue and crew and to all a peaceful goodnight!

  42. Colleen says:

    Sue, I just loved your post tonight !!!!!
    MERRY CHRISTMAS ~~~~ from my home in Maryland to you and yours.

  43. Margee Scannell says:

    That was fabulous! Merry Christmas!

    Margee Sent from my iPhone

  44. Joy A. & Lily, N. Cal. Sierras says:

    Very good I loved your poem. You do have a way with words.

  45. Mary says:

    Is there no end to your talents? What a cute poem.
    Merry Christmas to you all.

  46. Becky says:

    Merry Christmas to you and the crew. You bring so much joy into the lives of your readers. May you have a wonderful peaceful day there in the warm desert!
    Becky in Houston

  47. Dianne Safford says:

    Ahhh! That is so cute. And a very happy holiday to you, RVSue, and to your canine crew. I’m looking forward to hearing about your escapades in 2013. You’ve brightened my year! Best to you, from Dianne, Beemer and Capri

  48. Cherylyn says:

    What an upbeat way to end my day. Wishing you, Spike and Bridget a good nite and Merry Christmas.

  49. ginger says:

    Ahhh! such a cute poem! It’s been a joy to read your blog this year and here’s wishing you many safe adventures for the coming year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your crew.

  50. SandiNature says:

    Merry Christmas Sue and Crew,
    Just started following you this evening, and have been reading your blog for hours. I have learned much from your travels and your accounting of each. Thank you for giving us wanna-be’s an opportunity to understand life on the road. Your financial information will prove extremely helpful. I hope to be a full-timer in a year or so, and am excited about the new experiences coming my way. I am still deciding what kind of RV to purchase. I have a question. I’ve read a few other single women forums/blogs. The consensus on type of RV has been a mobile unit — you know, the kind you drive rather than tow (RV vs. TT). The reason being was to avoid having to get out of the PTV to set up or break down the BLT, citing convenience and safety reasons. I did read your justification for having the PTV which makes a lot of sense to me. My question is have you found yourself in unsafe situations that would cause you to rethink your Travel Trailer decision? Do you find you aren’t using the PTV as often as you thought? Any information or insight you can offer will help me understand what I need to consider in making this decision.

    Thanks so much!
    Merry Christmas!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hello, SandiNature, and welcome to my blog!

      I’m amazed that you’ve spent hours of your time reading my little tales about my life with the crew. Glad to see you here!

      To answer your questions . . .

      Have I found myself in unsafe conditions that would cause me to rethink my decision to live in a travel trailer? Absolutely not! First, I don’t travel into unsafe conditions, and secondly, a travel trailer is just as safe as any other RV. I hear again and again, women wanting Class As or Class Cs so they don’t have to come out of their rigs. I say to those women… Why are you RVing if you don’t want to come out of your rig? That’s the absolute worst reason for not choosing a travel trailer. You HAVE to get out of your rig, no matter what type!

      Do I use the PTV as often as I thought I would? Yes, I use it more! Much more! In fact, looking over the past 18 months, I would not have had half the fun and adventure if I weren’t able to drive off in the PTV. If you look at the way I live and want to duplicate it in your own life, you have to be able to go places the Class As and Class Cs can’t take you, and you have to be able to get up and go without the hassle of packing up/securing/battening down, etc.

      I could give you a boatload of reasons why I state these points so emphatically. Maybe I’ll make a blog post on the subject.

      Thanks for joining us, Sandi.. I appreciate the questions and wish you well as you make the important decisions toward fulltiming.

      Merry Christmas!

      • cinandjules (NY) says:

        Having owned a Class C…I would have to agree with Sue regarding the freedom of a PTV. From a trip to the store or sightseeing….you have to pack up the whole shebang. If your rig needs to go to the auto shop…then where are you going to stay?

        If given the chance to choose again………..travel trailer.

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          I appreciate you being honest about this. I hesitated to write so bluntly, but went ahead anyway. I’ve seen too many Class A and Class C people staying in camp while I go galavanting around in the PTV! Several have told me they wish they had a travel trailer or fifth wheel. And getting a toad adds to expense and maintenance.

        • SandiNature says:

          CinandJules,
          Your reply is straightforward and to the point. Your insight is enormous given you’ve owned a Class C rig. Thanks for taking the time to reply.

          SandiNature

      • SandiNature says:

        Hi RVSue:

        Thanks so much for your response to my question regarding RV vs. a travel trailer (TT). I find your comments/justification very compelling: Fear should not be a reason for not choosing a TT. Your “emphatic” response somehow gives more weight to your response. Often I find myself reminding others that a danger – whatever the specific topic happens to be – while may be possible, it is not likely probable. Thank you for your insight.

        The points you offer to justify the PTV are extremely helpful as well, such as not having access to additional “adventures” due to the size limitations of the class As and Cs. I hadn’t thought of that.

        Thank you for your thoughts, and thank you for your blog. As others have noted, you have a great voice. Your writing style is wonderful. You allow your readers to be right there with you in all of your adventures. That’s how I was able to spend hours reading your blog. For example, I found myself fearing for your safety when you were against the rock in the middle of the Madison river on your inflatable kayak (August 2012). Being a kayak’er myself, I wondered if you understood the potential for disaster. Of course, I knew you arrived safely because you were writing about your experience, but I was still right there with you.

        Keep living as tenaciously as you are. You encourage others to do the same.
        Happy New Year to you and your crew!

        SandiNature

        • rvsueandcrew says:

          Once we hit that rock I realized how close we were to a disaster. What I didn’t realize in the beginning was how easy it would be to get hung up on the one lone rock in the middle of that wide river. It was like the river took us there on purpose! It was a risky day, but oh what fun! One of my most vivid memories . . .

          • SandiNature says:

            It was fate. Obviously, you were meant to be introduced to that lone rock in the middle of that wide river. LOL Life can be cruel that way sometimes. Fortunately, everything turned out well for all of you that day.

            Happy New Year!

  51. Lisa says:

    Haha! Merry Christmas, you three!

    Lisa and Trotters

  52. Morris says:

    Merry Christmas, Sue! Greatly enjoy reading your blog. Hope you have a great 2013!!

  53. Sunny says:

    Oh my goodness, that was cute!!!! A wonderful Merry Christmas to you too!

  54. Jean &Skip says:

    Merry Christmas Sue, Spike and Bridget. Hope you have a Merry Christmas,

  55. deb from orlando says:

    Merry Christmas enjoyed your poem very much . Give the crew a big kiss for me . They are so entertaining! Enjoy your writing tremendously .

  56. Glenda Cornwill says:

    Are there no ends to your talent Sue……….loved your poem. Merry Xmas Love from Oz!!!

  57. Bob says:

    Sing along with me!

    We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas, We wish you a Merry Christmas,
    and a Happy New Year!!!

  58. cozygirl says:

    Merry Christmas Sue and that sweet crew. You’ve shared such honest heart warming love to all…may you continue to be blessed with good health, perfect landing spots, and tranquility!

  59. Kimzoph says:

    Thank you for brightening my Christmas morning, Sue! What a wonderful rendition of ‘Twas the Night…. Merry Christmas to you and crew, Sue!

  60. patricia Leonhardt says:

    Merry Christmas Sue, Spike and Bridget! Hope 2013 will bring many happy new trails for you to explore!

  61. Page says:

    Merry Christmas!! Love your rendition. I think Clement would be proud.

  62. Wayne Scott says:

    Very good.
    Merry Christmas & wishes for another great F/T New Year.

    We are in Pemsacola, Fort Pickens. You should see all the Casitas, a bunch. Thought for a minute you had made a dash for the beach!

  63. Ed says:

    Merry Christmas Sue and Crew!

  64. Carol in OK says:

    Merry Christmas Sue, Spike, and Bridget. Love your blog, your sense of humor, and your passion. God bless you.

  65. DiaryQueen says:

    ¡Cascabeles, cascabeles, lindos cascabeles! Con sus notas que me alegran va anunciando Él, ¡oye! Minerva Lucy, our Pugweiler, wanted to show off her Spanish to Bridge & Spike! Merriest of merries to you & the Crew! Be gentle with yourself & be safe in 2013!
    (we awoke to a white Christmas Eve in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia!)

  66. JOAN ROBERTS says:

    What a wonderful Christmas gift to us readers! Loved it Sue. Once again, Merry Christmas.

  67. Debbie says:

    Just perfect! Thanks so much for your blog and the sharing of your life. You are an inspiration!

  68. libertatemamo says:

    Very, very cute poem!! Here’s wishing you a wonderful Christmas and good travels!
    Nina

  69. Jenny Johns says:

    Wonderful! Merry Christmas and safe travels to you Sue and crew!

  70. KansasSue says:

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Very cute rendition.
    And thank you for a year of inspiration, a touch of reality and for opening heart and sharing your thoughts with all of us readers. We are blessed you are in our lives.

  71. Rattlesnake Joe says:

    Santa told me to tell you that he has modified his sleigh with wheels so he can visit you. I think he overheard you mention………..wait for it………..tan christmas, ho ho ho and a merry christmas.

  72. Pat says:

    Thank you, Sue, and Happy Holidays to you and the crew. You have become a daily treat for me and I live through your adventures. It is giving me the courage to perhaps pick this lifestyle for myself–however, still have my house and stuff to come back to.

  73. Mick says:

    Merry Christmas RvSue & Crew, your generous blogging has provided many hours of pleasurable reading. Can’t wait for the Book.

  74. Laura Roorda says:

    Merry Christmas Sue and crew, thank you so much for giving us the gift of your travels. It’s a gift that lasts all year long. Wish I could give you as much as you give me. God bless you..
    Laura

  75. rvsueandcrew says:

    Merry Christmas, Linda.

  76. Ms. Minimal says:

    Merry Christmas Sue, Spike & Bridget. Love reading your blog daily and hearing about your adventures. <3 You are an inspiration to so many, keep it up!!

    Hugs,
    Ms. MInimal

  77. rvsueandcrew says:

    Merry Christmas, Ms. Minimal.

  78. jean/Southaven, ms says:

    merry Christmas! I love those roasted chickens too. give Spike and Bridget a good scratch for me and read a good book for me Sue.

  79. Mike says:

    Merry Christmas Sue to you and the crew, we enjoy your blog.
    Mike and Karen from Minnesota.

  80. DeAnne from TN says:

    If I had a nickel for every time “Merry Christmas” was typed in this blog, I would be able to pay for my Parkliner! DeAnne in waiting for snow TN

  81. DeAnne from TN says:

    Kaa–ching!

  82. Elizabeth says:

    Cute entry! and photos of course too!! Am I the ONLY inquiring mind?? I cannot remember your ever mentioning someone named Clement before…is this something, or someone newish? Are you announcing something maybe?? Hope you are happy, whatever is going on!!

  83. Mark Watson says:

    Clement Clarke Moore (1779 – 1863) wrote the poem Twas the night before Christmas also called “A Visit from St. Nicholas” in 1822

    Mark Watson
    Denton Tx
    (who has yet to think up and write a poem)

  84. Tia in North Carolina says:

    I hope you had a peaceful and merry christmas Sue. Chicken for everyone!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Happy Holidays, Tia. We did have chicken… The crew had chicken hot dog pieces and I had “Sun Dried Tomato and Provolone” chicken sausage. A hearty supper for a brisk Christmas Day!

  85. Aiyana says:

    Happy Holiday RVSue you have expanded my imagination and vision throughout the year! I look forward to your Posts in the New Year! Know that my prayers are always with you! Behold the starlite nights and the wonders of God’s Creations and keep on sharing!

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