RV shows have been going on for over 40 years and still prove to be more popular today than ever. Most reports this year show record or near-record attendance around the country. My take on it is there is some pent-up demand and the easiest way to shop is to go to a show.

Why is that? Well, let me count the ways! 1. All the dealers put in their best-selling models plus all the new innovations and new floorplans. 2. Competition is at its highest level, so the prices are lower. 3. Look at coaches indoors out of the weather. 4. Coaches are likely to be spiffed up and decorated to get everyone in the mood. 5. You're likely be left alone to look, but you can get questions answered quickly if you desire. 6. Factory reps in attendance can answer some questions dealership personnel can't. 7. Lots of cool booths--some of which have nothing to do with RVs! 8. Usually very inexpensive admission. 9. Everything in one place to save gas running all over town to look. I'm sure there are more good things, but those come quickly to mind.

We're getting ready for our big spring show that begins this Thursday and ends next Sunday. We'll take down 40 or 50 units. Countless hours go into the planning and execution. Getting the units washed, detailed and ready to tow. Getting the right units hooked up (every show it seems we somehow get 1 or 2 wrong units and have to bring them back!) Getting a forklift down to the fairgrounds to move the units in tight places. Banners, sale signs, carpet, extension cords, adapters, brochures, cleaning supplies, sales agreements, appraisal books, tables, chairs, decorations, light bulbs, flashers, tape, fuses, ladders and scores of other things needed to put on a show.

And then after everyone is exhausted and the show is over, we have to break everything down and bring things back. Hopefully, not too many things are broken or scuffed up and there are lots of sold signs put up. We actually have a large trailer that we leave the show items in that we don't use any other time.

When we get back, there's no let up for weeks. Customers pour in to buy who didn't make up their mind at the show. The sales lot rows are a disaster and must be put back neat. We're trying to schedule deliveries that work for both us and the customer, while in many cases, we're still trying to get loans arranged. Service seems in chaos while working in the sales deliveries and regular service. Still, it's exciting and a sense of achievement if felt by all.

To show goers, everything may seem orderly and easy. However, we're like the duck gliding across the pond. It seems effortless, but underneath we're paddling like crazy!

Go camping more--have more fun! Lee