He spells retirement with an RV

[Photo courtesy of Joe Cronin] Joe Cronin, retired Florida Power executive and former president of the Florida International Museum, in his RV.

What does a busy executive do after retirement? Joe Cronin decided to hit the road.

After years of business travel to urban centers, the retired Florida Power executive and former president of the Florida International Museum is enjoying travel in his RV.

Favorite destination for a weekend getaway?

Shortly before his second retirement -- after six years with the museum -- Cronin purchased a 36-foot motor coach and now travels around the country.

"B's is only an hour away, but it's a total change of pace and scenery," Cronin said. "On Saturday nights, everybody gets together for potluck dinner. It's great."

How did you discover it?

"When I purchased the motor coach two years ago, I joined a couple of RV organizations. I can stay at some campgrounds around the country for $10 a night."

Where did you go on your last real vacation?

"I took two months and toured the Upper Midwest and Northwest alone. I've been fascinated with the area ever since I saw Alfred Hitchcock's movie North by Northwest. I had to see Mount Rushmore, in South Dakota (featured in the film's climax), and I drove on to camp outside Yellowstone," the national park in Wyoming.

Best all-time vacation?

"Big Sur, Calif. I took my fiance, Barbara, three years ago, and we stayed at the Ripplewood inn. It's a gorgeous spot in the heart of the redwood forest.

"We stayed in a very primitive cabin. The only time we saw anyone was when someone brought us our firewood, once a day.

"The woods there are breathtaking, truly nature's cathedral."

--Readers can contact Lorrie Lykins at WriteLor@Yahoo.com.

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