For a very long time, I've been trying to put a map on the Rig. There are several choices out there, but none, I thought, that fit our trip. The latest choices use license plate snipits for the states, and completely forget Canada. The past items I've seen have solid colored states (a must for me) and many have included Canada, but upon calling the manufacturer of that map, I've been told they don't produce it anymore. In fact, I was told that they get that call about three times a week, but have no plans for production. Now, I've seen some money opportunities squandered but, uh, hello - we're calling a company 'we (RVers)' need to research and are willing to pay whatever it takes to get your already produced map, and you aren't doing it... interesting choice.
So - I decided to just do my own. It is exactly what I want, in the shape, size, and form I want on my Rig. And while it took me some time to produce - I'm happy with what we came up with. Hours were spent designing the map, mocking the graphic, and deciding the setup. I went to a sign shop in town last week and finally - we've started our canvas - and I (I think WE) think it is perfect.
For those of you who are wondering - yes, there are places we've been that aren't represented here. We chose a baseline, because of the trip and what it represents. To fill in a state we must 1. Have stayed there in the Rig a week or more, and 2. Have explored a significant amout of territory to say we've 'done' the area.
In Rhode Island, of all places, we saw a Rig that put all the places they'd collected graphics for on their slideouts, and I made a mental note. They collected souvenir stickers of places they'd been, and I wanted to do the same. So, we start here... toward the patio. We're missing a bunch of places we've been - but I'm sure we'll catch up shortly. There are some I need to buy, some I need to have printed, but I'm sure we'll get everything figured out shortly.
I'm already thinking of what to do when we run out of room to plaster all the great places we've been... I've got some ideas, and I hope - for anyone reading this - that you get to see it soon. :)
