When you come to southwestern Utah to experience Zion National Park, be sure to drive the few miles to Virgin and go up Kolob Terrace Road.
Not only will you pass my boondock site alongside North Creek, if you continue about 25 more miles, you’ll go in and out of Zion a few times and arrive at Kolob Reservoir. The crew and I went up there the other day. What a drive. What a place. We’re going back.
I’m not going to show you photos of Kolob Reservoir today.
Why? Because my camera would not work. I think it needs a new battery. No amount of charging seems to help. Once I can take photos again, we’re going back up there. It’s a steep climb with switchbacks, but it’s worth the white knuckles. I’d better not get started about how beautiful it is. When I have some photos to show you, hopefully tomorrow, you’ll see what I mean.
This morning the crew and I go to Hurricane.
Zion Creekside Camp on Kolob Terrace Road
Our laundry has really piled up. One of my quilts is filthy. Spike went for a dip in the creek, covered himself in sand, and then jumped into the BLT to dry himself off on the bed. That’s okay, Spikey. You were fine until the last step.
The laundry proprietor kindly lets the crew come into her laundromat. Spike naps on the cool vinyl floor while Bridget follows me every step I take from washer to dryer to folding table.
While folding laundry, I have a chance to chat with Dianne, www.travelwithwhippets.blogspot.com. It’s a small world!
At Wal-Mart I buy a digital camera.
The price is $99. Oh dear, I’m spending money this month like a drunken sailor. Well, I want to have a back-up camera. I’ll need a new camera someday anyway. I’m just buying it a little early, that’s all.
It’s a Nikon Coolpix L26, similar to the Sanyo I already have. (While in Wal-Mart I could have bought a lithium battery for the Sanyo, but at the time I didn’t know that was the problem.)
Back at the BLT, I try the new Nikon and it rejects my memory card.
“Memory card is write protected,” whatever the heck that means. So now I have two cameras, neither of them working. Well, I can take some photos with the new Nikon but I don’t think it will hold all the photos I want to take on the way up to Kolob Reservoir.
Our days are numbered here at Zion Creekside Camp.
This is Spike when he’s not creating an adventure.
The toilet is in control! Every day I expect the black tank to fill up necessitating a drive to a dump station. I’m hoping I’ll make it until Sunday.
The fresh water tank is already empty, but I have drinking water in gallon jugs. I keep a jug of water in the bathroom for flushing. One of my two propane tanks is empty.
The route to our next camp goes through Hurricane where I can empty the tanks, take on water, put some more air in the BLT’s tires, and purchase propane. Then the crew and I will be all set for our next camp!
Recently this blog met another milestone.
A few days ago the site meter clicked on past 200,000! As I write this, rvsue and her canine crew has almost 350 followers! Bloggers may say that the numbers don’t matter, and maybe they don’t to some. For me it’s encouraging every time I see another person has pushed that button to follow, or when I see the site meter numbers continuing to rise. I appreciate every person who comments and every person who lurks in the shadows of the blogosphere. Thank you very much!
Lately I’ve been questioning the direction of this blog.
I look at my posts and think, “For heaven’s sake, me, me, and more me. Of course, the blog must include some content about me. I mean, look at the title. I want to continue keeping a record of the daily happenings in my life and in the life of the crew, including photographs of places we go.
But is rvsue and her canine crew missing something?
“Hey, Spike! Wait up!”
I notice men aren’t commenting like they used to. I miss you! I hope the next time I’m in a quandary about something, you men will come to my aid again. Often a man’s point of view saved my bacon in the past. I’d hate to lose your priceless input!
I want this blog to be helpful. So I added a record of my out-of-pocket expenses, put up a page on my solar set-up, and another one for RVing products.
What kind of information are you interested in? Some of you are dreaming about becoming a fulltime vagabond. Others are making definite plans. Some are already fulltiming. I’d like to know your thoughts on how I can improve.
So . . . What would you like to see on this blog?
rvsue
We’re enjoying it just like it is. Paul reads and enjoys your blog every day but I’m the loudmouth in the family and the one that posts on blogs and forums.
FYI, shoot Old Texan a congratulations. He picked up his Casita today.
Well, it’s a happy day for Old Texan! I’ll have to get over to his site and give him a cheer!
Sue, We read your blog every day, along with George and Tiogo, The Bayfield bunch, and travels with Kevin and Ruth. Herb reads a few ohers, but I stick to these four. Each one is unique and each portrays a different lifestyle. I commend you for posting every day that you can. We did it for Two years and just seemed to wear out when trying to think of something To say or find an appropriate picture. Your lifestyle is particularly unique, especially to me. Boondocking for me is just a foreign country. Also, age changes your way of living. Life is just a series of some small and some big changes, especially as the years start to add up. Just keep doing what you are doing and know that we enjoy your adventures with your best friends. Thanks for just being YOU. Cindy Garvin
Don’t change a thing!
I agree, I really like your blog the way it is. It lets me dream what it would be like if I could full time.
Okay . . . got it!
Enjoying it the way it is. We love you just the way you are !!
Thanks, Susan.
Sue, I follow you for so many different reasons. I read lots of blogs but yours is my favorite. You’re doing exactly what we plan to do in 2.5 years so I’m always thrilled when I learn of a new boondocking spot or a new place I didn’t know I wanted to see before. Please don’t change a thing. We also plan to travel Mexico but that’s OK if you want to pass on that one! 🙂
So you like to hear about new boondocking spots . . .okay! That’s helps me, Grace.
I would love to travel in Mexico. At this point I have so much to see in the USA that I’m putting Mexico “on the back burner.”
Oh, the waiting! Now that I know from experience what this life is like, I wonder how I managed to wait so many years!
Sue, I have been following your blog for the last 4mo and once I discovered you, I went back and read every one of the archives – I am ashamed to admit that I have been enjoying every word, every adventure & every picture but have not commented or said thank you until now…you are an inspiration, with lots of neat info and your writing makes me laugh (along with the antics of the crew). Someday i will be out there in my own little egg and because of your blog, I will know it can be done, how to do it and where to go ….. THANK YOU & please continue!
Besides being very entertaining, you are also an “on the ground” resource. The finances, logistics, and mechanical/technical stuff is valuable, but it is all embedded in the day to day postings so I have one suggestion – maybe enhance the solar section to include additional references and documentation (i.e. internet connection, paying bills, power consumption, etc). Probably a royal pain to create & maintain but wow, it would be so helpful. m.
p.s. northern Nevada has a lot of BLM land & Lake Tahoe is pretty impressive, hope you pass by this way someday so I can say hi!
Hello, Melanie, and here’s a belated welcome to my blog!
I appreciate you spelling out some of the things you would like to read more about. (I’m taking notes!) Your idea about “additional references and documentation” is good . . . Maybe a “How-to” type page? Once I have completed a calendar year, I plan to put up a financial page for 2012, and then add to it every year. I should write a post along those lines for the first six months of this year.
Very helpful, Melanie . . . Your comment has me brainstorming ideas already!
Hi Sue. Your blog is perfect please don’t change a thing except …….you may want to add a place on you blog so that people who get a casita because of your adventures in one . can turn your name in and you can get the bonus the factory gives.
Sincerely.
Grandjan who is leaving for Galveston in her own casita. in about an hour
Oh, Janis, I wish that would work, but I think you have to give prospective buyers a tour of your Casita in person. If anyone can figure out a way for me to get a bonus (honestly, of course), I want y’all to know I will accept the money!
Your last line tickles me . . . Off she goes to Galveston in her “own Casita!”
Is a picture tour good ???with all the things you write about I think a picture tour would work just call casita and ask them they are real nice good luck i think it could work
Gee, I don’t know. It’d be better if it came from someone who buys a Casita because of my blog. I don’t think it would fly. Too many people would line up for their checks! LOL
Hi Sue,
From a man’s perspective… I enjoy reading about you and the crew; that’s the point. If I just wanted to read about places I would research them on line. I love reading about Spike and Bridget and the situation you and the crew find yourselves. I enjoy learning about the people you meet and the places you’ve visited from your perspective. I believe you currently have a great balance of subject matter. Of course, it’s your blog and you’ll write what you feel at the moment. It’s your artistic expression and will evolve over time. As you make subtle changes we probably won’t even notice; we’ll just continue to enjoy
I don’t comment often because I don’t think I have much to add to the conversation. I also learned long ago… when a woman speaks, just listen.
All the best,
Barrie
Barrie, you are one SMART man !!!!! Chuck
Hi Sue – I think your blog is perfect and I share it with my husband daily, I keep telling him our JRT, Becker, will be spike-like when we start our adventure!
Keep it up – it is great reading!
Kellee
I’m glad my blog is showing you what it’s like to live with a Spike on the road. If your Becker is Spike-like, then many days HE will be the adventure!
Consider yourselves warned! Proceed at your own risk!
I love your blog. I saw it referenced by someone else so thought I’d take a look. Honestly at first I thought it would be way to wordy — but your a great writer and I find myself reading every word and now look forward to seeing it in my inbox. I’ve pinned many of your places and tips on my pininterest pages, giving you credit – hope thats ok. You’ve found some amazing places. My husband and I will be leaving as soon as our house sells… can’t WAIT… you keep me excited about the lifestyle while I wait…and wait….and wait. Thank you so much. Jodi
Hi, Jodi!
Although I don’t know what a pininterest page is,, you can pin me there! LOL Good luck selling that house, so you can start enjoying a new life! I remember hanging on every word and scanning every photo that Tioga George would post as I waited sooooo long. Eventually that wonderful day will arrive for you, too!
I’m reading your blog generally daily, BUT you had mentioned some time ago ( maybe in a fit of being overwhelmed about the comments) that you were considering giving up the blog to explore more of the “hermit” lifestyle that you had intended to do in the first place.
So I removed yours from my blog list but do check in on your adventures.
Right now I’ve got a bunch of questions about the Casita Setup ,storage wise, but can’t get your email to work. Drop my a line when you get the chance please and then prepare for a long email with questions. 🙂
Enjoy your morning coffee Me? I’m walking out the back door to experience my first sunrise in MY Casita!! 🙂
I’ll get an email out to you right away, Ben. Ask all the questions you want. I am so thrilled for you. I love your last two lines! You are going to have a lot of fun in your brand new Casita!
Hi Mel herel (aka Melanie from NV) – if not too personal of an email/response, I know I would be VERY interested in any questions and answers on how to get it all organized – maybe you can include the info in the reference area I suggested. I am looking at an Escape 17 as my eventual egg but I expect the setup and storage info could be applied to any compact travel trailer.
I did a post on storage boxes inside the BLT and how I utilize the space in the BLT’s closet. My biggest storage solution is the PTV. That thing holds a lot of stuff. I’ll try to think of any ideas I can give along those lines.
I read your blog with my coffee every morning. I’m enjoying your style of an every day brief entry! Your pictures are great. Don’t change! Right now we’re on our first trip out in our new trailer that will be our full-time unit next year. As I sit in a beautiful but crowded resort campground I think of how this was my idea of camping until I “met” RVSue. You have slowly opened my eyes to boondocking. I’m sure your blog has effected more people than you’ll ever know….just the way it is.
Your first trip . . good for you! Let me warn you about boondocking. You are going to love it or hate it. If you love it, you are ruined forever when it comes to “crowded resort campgrounds.”
I hope the effect I have on people is positive! Nice to hear from you, Pam.
I think Barrie said it the best. Sue I never miss reading a blog, because its just not a blog its a story the only difference is, we hope it never ends! Also like your readers and yourself this is something that greatly appeals to me in the future, and hearing about you and the crews adventures the pictures it doesn’t get any better. I think you know when to start a new page just like where to get stuff. when you find you get a quesiton more then twice time to start a page on it. I know i a not in your class yet with only a pop up, but I tell you my biggest challenge is being organized for cooking etc. We took it out for the first time for a long weekend, the cookware was under someones feet so had to wait for breakfast etc. may just leave pots / pans in the back of the van in a tupperware instead of stored in the benches of the trailer.. the fun, but i would have bought this for my son and i to venture out if it had not been for you. i am looking at solar power for it so next year we can go boondocking, for now camp grounds near water. Thank you for taking your time to share yours and the crew experiences with us all.. Take care and give those pups a treat for me.. I will write some quesions later, this is getting to big ha ha
Oh, I love BIG comments! (Are you formerly known as bearwise here? You sound like her!) Organizing is a challenge. I hardly use the under-seat benches for storage . . . It’s too inconvenient, like you found out.
You could get one of those portable solar panels to set out. I’m pleased to hear my blog opened up some new possibilities for you and your son.
It’s funny . . . Right before I discovered your comment, I gave the crew their denta-stix which they love. They were chewing on their “treats” when I read “give those pups a treat for me.” So I can honestly say that I did! Take care, Bear. Love hearing from you . …Enjoy those long weekends!
I think your blog is great just the way it is as does the rest of your blogger friends. I can’t imagine coming up with something to write almost every day and make it as great a story as you do.
I also live thru your lifestyle and it is my dream.
It’s my pleasure to write a blog for you to dream by, Darlene.
Has someone already answered this? I guess this means I scan rather than really read. Your Memory card has a little tiny switch on the side. You don’t realize it, but you pushed it in to the “protect” position. I do this accidentally all the time. Just push it the other way, and you will be good to go.
Hi, Tom! I tried pushing the little lock switch on the side. It doesn’t help. I’m having “performance issues” with my computer right now (slow loading, unable to open windows, etc.) or I’d do the unthinkable . . . look at the CD that came with the camera! Thanks for trying to help. (See what I mean about men? They try to help me fix stuff! I love that.)
Hmm… not sure, but it’s possible your cameras use different kinds of memory cards. Do both use SD cards? If your new camera uses memory cards different from your Sanyo, Walmart is pretty good about accepting returns and return the one you just bought then you could get a second camera using the same type of card. I don’t know enough about Sanyo vs Nikon, but that’s what I would first research: Memory Card Type.
I’ll do that, Tom. I’ll keep the new Nikon and buy a memory card to go with it. I took photos today and held them in the camera’s memory, intending to transfer them via cable to my computer. Not surprisingly, they aren’t transferring. I downloaded the software… It may be my crummy computer causing the problem.
Memory card write protected – generally means on the card there is a little .. tab or slide thing (if you want the technical term!!!) it is probably slid out of open mode, try sliding it to the other position – it may just have slightly moved out of position and will block – slide it to one side and try it and then the other….. either that or your camera doesn’t like the card – which could be a problem…
I already tried that, Tammy. I think it doesn’t like the card. I’ve been using that card with my Sanyo camera and now my new Nikon is rejecting it. I guess Nikon doesn’t like Sanyo!
I looked up “camera card memory lock” on google.. found a posting that also suggested reformatting the card via the camera option menu. Remember the old days when we used to reformat floppy discs and c drives on the our PCs? a wipe clean and start over theory that also applies to the SD, SDHC memory cards. bad news, you may need a dedicated card for each camera.
Thanks for writing, Melanie. I tried that. I worked through the steps and it ended with the same message about write protection. I think it’s the bad news here . . . a dedicated card for both cameras. Which means I have to take another trip to Hurricane’s Wal-Mart.
yes, some cards are just not compatible, usually it is because of the speed of the card and the camera having a mismatch, it can be the formatting of the card also and some times it may just be a bad card or who knows what… I would get another card and make sure it is a different type. I’m sure you will figure it out.
After a trip to WalMart . . . I got another card and it works!
i read every post but I don’t always comment. I wait for the email telling me you have a new post. If I don’t see your email, I even check your site to see if you had a new post and I missed the email. I enjoy your post. I’m seeing places through your eyes and I have to admit that I get disappointed when the crew isn’t invited somewhere which makes it impossible for you to visit. Too bad there isn’t a doggy day care at these places. lol. I can’t think of anything you could do different. I just want you to know I am a daily reader and your posts give me joy and I look forward to them and wonder where you are when I don’t see a post for a few days. You told us we might not see a post every day. Maybe no internet signal. I too live through your lifestyle as it is my dream too. I would be doing it right now if I didn’t have a husband.
Hi, Linda,
I really do hate it when I don’t get a post out every day. Sometimes it’s because I’m in a location where my Verizon wireless air card can’t pick up a signal. Other times (recently) it’s because my computer won’t let me upload photos or the browser won’t open windows (I keep changing browsers!) or whatever. I troubleshoot and run diagnostics and tear my hair out and say bad words. It’s still slow! By the time I get the post online, the day is gone.
My goal is to post every day because I know what it’s like to need something to feed your dream. I did that for years . . . reading blogs was like breathing fresh air when my life was choking me . . . Thanks for writing, Linda.
I’ve been riding along since day one. Perhaps more cussing, beer drinking and nudity would increase male readership.
Hot Cal . . . Can you wait until I lose a few more pounds?
Really enjoying your blog..with that many followers, it would suggest that your current way of doing thing is working just great! Keep on doin’ what you are doin’! Unless YOU are ready for a change.
I don’t need to change it. I was thinking the blog is more like “rvsue’s big ego and her canine crew.” LOL Apparently people don’t mind it!
Sue,
I think your blog is excellent & I really enjoy reading it. I’m a fulltimer but not traveling at the moment as I’m still working. I enjoy reading about rving on a budget, storage solutions, great camping locations & attractions, technical advice & the adventures of the crew, of course. Keep up your excellent informative posts!
Great feedback, ct. I’ll keep those topics in mind when writing. Thanks for the compliment.
I have been reading your blog since you were in the planning stages and selling your house. Your style of writing is what sucks people in. Please don’t second guess yourself.
I always write a little reply to your new posts so that I can click on the little box “notify me of follow up comments via email”, as I find your posters comments interesting, and your replies to them. Also have started following many of your “followers”. It is a viscous circle!!!
I love it when people comment and talk to each other, not just to me, here on my blog. We hear such good information and points of view when people comment and react to other people’s comments. It puts life into the blog and it leads to other blogs, too! I appreciate your frequent comments, Cathie.
Everyone has said what I am thinking too. I follow you every day and look forward to reading your very interesting, entertaining, helpful, etc. blog. Keep up the good work and thank you so very much for thinking of me. Love you, Barbara
I appreciate you checking in with us every day, Barbara. I’m sending good thoughts your way!
Your comment about “mechanical and tech stuff” is probably right. Maybe the talk about dieting has the men thinking this is a “chick blog.” I don’t know why because men need to diet too . . . Maybe they don’t like reading about it!
I’m taking note to include “cost of living and problems.” I appreciate your specific info, Harriet.
Dianne and I read your blog every day. Dianne started reading it from the beginning and hooked me into following your adventures, later. I would not change a thing. It is interesting, informative and fun. We love your style of writing. Your means of travel is so different than ours. You allow us to experience true boondocking vicariously. It feels like we are there. Thanks!
We may have different styles and means of travel, but our spirits line up well! Nice to hear another male voice on this blog today. Safe travels to your next stop and beyond . ..
I read and point out items that interest my hubby, but he does not read ANY blogs on a regular basis, but does enjoy the subjects that interest him. But I have not one word of suggestion to change anything. You write as you go along and one experiences different things on different days, no matter what part of life one is in at the time!!
You like the “daily journal” aspect of the blog. Good! That’s the easiest to write! Nice to hear from you today, Elizabeth. Say hi to your husband for me!
Hi Sue,
When I found your blog around Feb, I too, went back and read all your previous entries right from the beginning. You are living a version of my dream, and you help me hold onto that dream! I’ve learned so much from you, and I actually keep a notebook, writing down things I might need, that I otherwise wouldn’t know about, places I might like to go, and various other thoughts and ideas.
Also, there are so many helpful readers here that offer help and advice and answer questions! That also makes this a great learning experience.
The only thing I can think of …….sometimes I lose valuable information, either in the blogs or numerous comments, and I can’t always find it again. I wonder if there could be some kind of question and answer section to click on at the top? Maybe we could go there if we had a specific question and perhaps an answer would show up from another one of your readers…or from you?
That’s the only thing I can think of, but really, your blog is perfect, as is:-)
Hugs, Micky
Thank you for all your kind words, Micky. I really like your idea of a question and answer place. I’m not sure how I could set it up so that it didn’t turn into another discussion page like this comments section is, and then you would be back to not being able to find what you want. But I’m going to try to figure out a way to do that. Great Idea!
Hey RV Sue!
My husband and I are picking up our used new Casita later today! We love hearing about your adventures just the way you have described them–because we want to have adventures like you’re having too! Our goal–to find all the bicycling rail-trails across this great country.
Boondocking sounds like great fun–We really believe that we will be able to do more by scaling back on some of the things that we need to exist in our ‘traditional’ American life. I’m looking forward to the challenge of figuring out how to live on less–because I think we will have fuller lives because of it.
Thanks for sharing what you are doing with us. You have an inspirational story to tell. Ruste
Congratulations on having your own Casita! What an exciting day this is for you! I wish you many happy adventures. Your bicycling rail-trails search sounds like fun. It’s good to have a focus to your vagabonding. For me it’s this blog!
If you’re interested, when visiting Zion area, there’s a mountain-bike destination near Hurricane called Gooseberry Mesa (Hwy 59).
You’ve got the key to a fuller life . . . live on less! Good luck to you both.
I’m another lurker, Sue, who likes your blog just as it is. Your style is refreshing and your present tense makes me feel like I am there. I really like that. Obviously, 350 followers feel the same way. I read all your posts, and yes, when overloaded with “stuff” I will read the orange headlines. LOL I am not sure if I have commented much, I only comment when I think I might have something real to say other than “yeah, I am reading your blog and love it”. Maybe I should do that more often so you know! I decided to comment today to tell you about the little tab thingy on the memory card and see that someone else already did. Almost didn’t comment then, but decided you might like to know there is another happy reader out here in blogland. I found you when Al posted about your visit with them. I also admit that I am lazy, and tend to comment when it’s easy. WordPress is lovely but commenting is kind of a pain compared to a quickie on blogger. I am not following your example and getting way to wordy here….but…I don’t need places as much as I need experiences and feelings. I guess that is a girly thing rather than a guy thing. A litany of places bores me without the experience to go along with it.
That’s a good point you made at the end of your comment. I never want my blog to evolve into a travel blog. Like someone else said, you can find info and photos on any place in the world by doing a web search. That’s why I write about myself and the crew so much! I’m glad to hear it isn’t getting on people’s nerves (at least no one has told me that yet).
I’m curious why commenting on WordPress “is kind of a pain.” I’d like to know the specifics on that. Maybe I need to change a setting?
I’m glad you went to the trouble of writing here. I’ll remember your preference for “experiences and feelings.” Thanks.
I like hearing about your every day adventures. And it is fun to watch blog numbers go up.
Kolb area is marvelous. Hope you get the camera(s) thing worked out.
I’ve got to get off this computer, get a memory card that works with my camera, and get the crew and me back up to Kolob! Hope everything is great with you and your job at the Grand Canyon!
Sue
Down here in Texas they have a couple sayings . ( Dont kick a winning mule in the a$$) ( if it aint broke dont fix it) your blog is growing ,you have the best commenting section I know of..We read the blog because we are interested in you you you. lol
I dont post alot and and not a follower but I check your blog and comment section and read both every day.
Now about the guys, I think you will find it is the time of the year more than anything , guys are mowing the grass, going fishing camping , doing little league etc ,so we are here just busy..
I have to say I am envious and jealous of a couple thing about you. One is your already fulltiming and the other is I wish I was even close to as good a writer as you are..
Just something t think about when you have a day that you need to write a blog and dont know what to do. Write about a normal day in Sues life FT . I am not talking about where you are.
I think a lot of folks wonder if they would get bored not have anything to do after awhile of full timing. Yep from get up time until you hit the sheets at night.
Keep on keeping on gal we love your style and blog
Ron
Interesting, Ron . . . The guys are busy this time of year. I never would have thought of that! I hope they come back.
Sweet of you to mention your two “envies” of me! I know you have a talent I don’t have, probably more than one . . .
So I’ll count you as saying you like to read about “a normal day in Sue’s life fulltime.”
Okay! You’re easy to please, Ron!
rvSue,
There is nothing wrong with your blog being about me, me me. You are writing about your life! One change that I suggest is to move your Search Box up to the top of the page, maybe just above the weather. I am always disappointed in a blog where I have to search the page trying to find the Search Box.
Thanks for the affirmation, Ed. Good idea about the search box. I had it up at the very top and then I moved it. I don’t know why I did that. I was the same way with furniture when I had a house. Always moving stuff around for no good reason! I’ll put the search box back where it belongs.
Moving furniture is a ‘chick’ thing but the actual MANual labor to do it…….
IMHO LEAVE THE BLOG AS IS, IMHO…
Chuck
This chick moves her own stuff! LABOR is something we females do!
Thanks for your humble opinion, Chuck.
Sue, I weighed in on cameras many blogs ago. I’ve found that having multiple cameras is handy, especially if they can do different things. I’m sold on the EVF which allows you to see what your shooting in bright sunlight! And big fan of ‘non dedicated’ batteries.
I keep rechargeables in the cameras (AA) and carry lithiums in my pocket. If I see a picture I have to have and loose my recharge batts, I just slip in the lithiums!
Even the maker of my ham band HT (Icom) which I use on VHF/UHF to access the hundreds of mt top repeater sites makes a slide-on AA batt case! Law inforcement and network TV stations try to stay away from equipment that has an internal dedicated batt. (my video mentor drives a SAT truck for KOB-TV, ABQ, also a shooter has a plaque on the inside of the truck-Remember Murphy’s Law? How can we forget! When he has to make a mid-night run to a major news event with a only an anchor person, he does the video work….anything that can go wrong, WILL
Male department checking in…boy do K and I miss your pix! The slide shows are mesmerizing! Cheers, br, K and 8 paws (EVF-electronic viewfinder, HT-handi talkie, VHF-very high frequency, UHF-Ultra high frequency, SAT-satellite((beam me UP))
Hi, Bill… You always give me stuff to think about! I guess I need to loosen the purse strings a bit and get better equipped for this daily blog business. I want another charger to keep in the PTV . . . that sort of thing.
Which reminds me, I’d better get out searching for a memory card and lithium battery or I’m not going to have any photos. Time to get offline and get REAL!
Nice to hear from you . . . hi to K!
Ok, one last thing-no need to comment. Much of the advice I give you is from a ‘pro’ perspective. You might argue that your use of the camera isn’t that of a professional. OH, really? 200K blog events, 350 readers, oh really,? I’d say your dependence on a full function camera is almost identical to that of a professional…think it over….
Wouldn’t it be nice to have an SLR, EVF, dedicated 15x optical zoom lense and AA powered.(about 150 to 190 USD) Just think, virtually any store in any size town sells your power requirement! How’s that for utility?! Don’t doubt me…I was in power distribution for over 30 years (what EE’s do) .Hey, engineer/designer MICK, if your listening, back me up!! cheers,br…K said a big HEY
I’m not an EE, but I have to agree. A nice little Canon Rebel with a couple of lenses would be perfect for you.
Yep, I agree! Sue loosen your purse strings ome more time and opt for a Canon Rebel and a lens that goes from 28 to 200mm would be all you need PLUS A SPARE BATTERY so one is always charged! I love your blog! I look forward to it! Chuck and I told you way back in Nov that you should write a book about your travels. With your comfortable, laid back style of writing… I think you would have a best seller! Geri
I appreciate everyone’s confidence in my abilities. A big ol’ professional looking camera intimidates me. I can’t even get this puny Nikon to transfer photos and I’ve been fooling with it most of the day (even while up at Kolob Reservoir).
Maybe someday . . . When I do, you can bet I’ll be on here whining for your help!
The new compact cameras are all easy to use. The big difference is usually the lens which is the most important part of any camera and drives the price. Buy all the lens you can afford, plus a little. Good review site: http://www.dpreview.com/
Mick (NW2L)
Thanks Mick. BTW, I want to write a long email to you… these computer problems have me way behind on emails… Don’t think I’m ungrateful, OK?
I read every new post, but as you get lots of comments, and you usually don’t ask questions, I tend to be a lurker nowadays. Just keep on doing what your’re doing.
Thanks, Jerry, for commenting on this subject today. It’s nice to know you’re lurking!
Sue, I see no problems with your website/blog, I find it great the way it is. Just keep doing what you do and if I ever believe I can offer good advise, I will. Oh I am a man who loves your adventures and stories you tell. Especially when you tell things about how things work on the BLT and PTV. You have given very good advice on lots of topics, like your solar setup and how to pack up the PTV. You even put the bug in my mind about having a van like the PTV instead of a 4×4 extended cab pick-up as our PTV when we get to live like you when we retire. Except I would have to convert any van into 4×4 for so of the places I want to take our BLT when we get one.
Thanks for everything and keep the stories/pictures coming.
Hi, Steve! Nice to hear from you again.
You’ve given me a lot of insight that will help me when deciding what to write about.
If you do go with a van for your tow vehicle, one question comes to mind. You said you want the 4 x 4 to take your BLT to certain places. I’m wondering if you’ll need it. I find there’s a limit to what trevails I want to put the BLT through. And that limit is about the limit of the PTV. Now if you want the 4 x 4 to go places without your BLT, once you’ve unhitched, well then, you’d better get it. Just a thought . . .
This is where some input from male boondockers would be helpful. Thanks for writing.
Sue, I’m a man and I love your blog. I’ve tried to figure out why, but to be honest I can’t decide why I like it so much. Maybe because I am a narcissist and your life is so much like my own. I seldom comment but I look forward to each post arriving in my email!!
Here are two things i would like to see on your blog:
1) A map of each campsite. Reading about it is one thing, but seeing a map is so much better (worth a 1000 words, after all). Nothing you could do would be as helpful. So in a few years when I am looking for a campsite in Zion, all I have to do is go to your blog, and find a map showing me exactly where to go. So i would have pictures and a map of the area. That would be tremendously helpful to everybody!!
So you may be wondering how to do it. it really is quite easy. First use the internet to find a map of the area and zoom in. Next, Windows 7 comes with a tool called Snip It (find it under Accessories in the Start Program MENU). if you don’t have windows 7, you can get shareware programs that do the same thing. It is super simple to use. It is just like a cropping tool (click and drag to cut the area you want to save), except when you are done it takes the cropped area of the picture and saves it as a jpeg. Give it a name like “Utah__Map_Zion_Kolob_2012.jpg” and save it. Then you load it just like any other picture. There are copyright issues, but if you give credit to the source, you should be okay. Delorme makes mapping software called TOPO that is much better for the backcountry. I use it for maps in more remote areas. Go to this page (scroll to the bottom) and you will see an example of Topo maps I have Snipped and posted. Notice i have highlighted the route. Snip It makes that easy:
http://cheapgreenrvliving.com/Rendezvous_Summer_2012.html
2) The second thing I would love to see on your blog is a page with a monthly total of your spending for the whole time you are out. I think that would be extremely helpful for people thinking about about the life, or just starting out.
I keep meaning to start my own blog, I even got as far as setting it up but I just can’t find the time to get it done. I asked myself the same questions you are asking now. So I decided I would do two things to add value (1) A tip of the day/week about boondocking, (2) An inspirational Quote of the day/week. So those are two other possibilities for you.
Bob Wells
cheaprvliving.com
cheapgreenrvliving.com
cheaprvlivingforum.com
Hi,, Bob,
I’ve enjoyed and learned from your frequent comments lately. Thanks for taking the time to write out the info on Snip It and for all the good ideas on how to make this blog better. It probably would be best if I started a drop down menu of boondock info from the header, sorted by state. It will be a ton of work to get it caught up and to keep it going, but you’re right, it would be very useful.
Blogging every day is a big commitment. The rewards are immeasurable! I may sound like I’m bragging when I say that my transitions from homeowner to vagabond, and from camping in campgrounds with hookups to boondocking have been pretty smooth. I attribute that to all the wise advice and counseling I get from people such as yourself.
Bob. I wold like to respond to the following suggestion you made, I hope you don’t mind.
“Here are two things i would like to see on your blog:
1) A map of each campsite. Reading about it is one thing, but seeing a map is so much better (worth a 1000 words, after all). Nothing you could do would be as helpful. So in a few years when I am looking for a campsite in Zion, all I have to do is go to your blog, and find a map showing me exactly where to go. So i would have pictures and a map of the area. That would be tremendously helpful to everybody!!”
Sue has already given a very good description of how to find this almost pristine campsite near North creek a few blogs ago. Just think a minute, please. If Sue were to put a map on or gps coordinates on how to find this spot, how pristine do you think she will find it 2 or 3 years from now if she wants to return? Sue has an awful big readership out there! Even if only a 10th of them actually came to visit, it would be very hard on this sensitive piece of land by the creek ! I feel if she gave general hints about where she is or has been, it gives the readers an opportunity to explore the area and find their own “special place” to camp. Thanks for listrening to my opinion! Geri
Ok this is a male perspective. First your memory card. You need to slide the little switch on the card in the reverse direction in order to take it out of the ‘write protect’ mode.
I think your blog is perfect and definitely like that you have added costs. This is valuable information for those of us that will be living the RV lifestyle in the future.
What you do throughout the day (or what you dont do) is interesting but also like when you address technical and mechanical issues with your setup and what you did to resolve it or when you ask your readers for comments.
Just keep doing what you are doing, I truly enjoy your posts…….. G
Thanks, G. (Now I know you’re a guy!) The memory card switch doesn’t help. Sometimes it locks when I put it in the Sanyo, so I take it out and unlock it. With the Nikon, nothing I do to the card gets rid of that message.
I’m hearing from you and others that the mechanical and technical is interesting to you. I’ve taken note.
I was quite impressed recently (when Hubby bought daughter a new cell phone at Walmart) as those kids that work in that techie area are pretty bright and know the ins and outs of those things…you MIGHT find someone at the Walmart where you bought the camera who could help. Take BOTH cameras in and see what they can do…at least that is what I would do. But then I am quite behind in all that techie stuff…relying on hubby and daughter to help me when I need help….ha!. Guess if I was alone I would have to figure it out huh?
You read my mind, Elizabeth. I’ll bring both cameras in to Wal-Mart. I have a strong feeling Sanyo made that SD card so it will only work with Sanyo. Not very nice.
You’re right . . When you’re on your own, you amaze yourself by what you can figure out and accomplish.
Sue, I have never worked Walmart but once worked a couple years part-time in what used to be called Payless drug store (tho I mostly worked the fabric section, etc)…and whenever a clerk is able to help folks out, it gives you a big GREAT feeling of accomplishment too…so think of it as HELPING the clerks feel good about themselves!! HA!! (And we always appreciated so much when a customer would tell the management of how much we were able to help!!)
Sue – it’s difficult to come up with any suggestions for improvement. It should be about you & crew!
Maybe you could do a post about the BLT – why you chose the Casita over all others, what you like about it, what you would change.
As for the male followers, maybe more nudity? (Kidding!).
Yep, Spike looks like he’s plotting, um, I mean planning, his next exploit.
Oh, THAT’s why Spike goes off by himself periodically! He’s scheming for his next adventure!
Hotel California already suggested the nudity part. I’m hoping he can wait until I lose a few more pounds.
Thanks for the idea to write about the Casita.
Love the log….almost ready to head out myself. My two small dogs are rain to go, been living in the camper for a year and this winter we head out. Keep up the bog and I will follow along and learn.
Thanks,
Dir Johnson
Hi, Dirk!
You’re going to have a smooth transition when you go down the road, having lived in your camper for a year already. I lived in one room of my house after emptying out the rest. It confirmed what I already knew…. that I don’t require a lot of living space to be happy.
Good luck to you as you get ready to go and as you find your own adventures!
I live in the Southeast. When my husband and I traveled, a lot of it was in the west/southwest. I loved the desert, the forests. the canyons and all the other scenery. I read a few blogs from those locations just to see the beauty and read the descriptions. Keep it up!
Hi, Nita! Nice to hear from you again. You’re a scenery-lover . . . me, too! I’ll be sure to keep writing about that, too.
Sue. You mentioned in a previous post about possibly staying in campgrounds in the future. Could you elaborate?
I like your blog just the way you do it. I did ask myself why in the world I would be interested in somebody going to the laundromat. And it was because someday, I’m going to have to figure out how to wash my own clothes while on the road. Have a great Saturday.
Hi, Susie,
To answer your question about me possibly staying in campgrounds in the future. I don’t know where I wrote that. I probably was referring to one of three situations . . . when I haven’t managed to get to a higher elevation to stay cool at a boondock (so I want electric hookups for my air conditioner) or when I can’t find any free camping in a location I want to be in or have to be in, or when I absolutely, positively have to have a real shower! Coral Pink Sand Dunes SP is an example of the last two reasons.
I put in stuff about going to the laundromat because I remember reading blogs and dreaming about what it would be like. So I write in a way that puts a person “on my shoulder” as I go about living, including the ordinary stuff.
Sue, I love your blog and really look forward to seeing the email that says you have a new post. Don’t change a thing. I also like reading about your day to day life boondocking and how you get normal every day things done like laundry, dishes, washing your hair, cooking and so on. Also love hearing about good spots to stop for a few days.
Kathy . . . That’s the feedback I need. Thanks for letting me know, especially the part about loving my blog!
I agree, sometimes its the little things that make a difference, and we have learned so much about laundry, dishes, cooking it helps and of course we just love reading about your adventures, your every day, and the Crew!! Hopefully the story never ends, lol.
Sweet comment!
Just wondering, Sue … do you read other people’s blogs? I mean, if you read 472 RV blogs, but not mine for Duck’s sake, don’t tell me! Make up some kind of lie. For instance, say that you don’t read anything online; Bridget and Spike filter your news and read you what they want you to know.
You’re getting the readership, so you must be doing things right!
Roxanne
Honestly, I never read all the blogs I want to, including yours! By the time I blog (which takes me forever) and then read and respond to comments (I’m not complaining!), I have to get off the computer and live a little. So I drop in here and there to see what’s going on with other people. Inconsistency is my motto!
Sue, No need to change a thing with your blog, I enjoy following your daily adventures, my wife turned me on your site a couple of months ago with the Mitch Stick, you’re one brave lady.
Hi, Mike! Welcome to my blog if I haven’t already done so. It’s the Mick Stick, so named because it was given to me by my engineer friend, Mick. (How did I live without it!) I’m pleased to hear you’re enjoying the blog.
On the side of your memory card is a tiny little button, just slide it the opposite direction and your scan card will work once again. Ask me how I know? I had to call my camera company to find that out the hard way. Good luck and love your blog, no need to change it at all.
Hi, Ali . . . Oh, how I wish it were that easy. I’ve tried sliding that button several times and it doesn’t help.
Thanks for writing. I’m glad you’re enjoying my blog.
No recs for the blog, but I am thinking about your tires. You might want to consider carrying one of those 12V tire inflators that plug into the cigarette lighter. Then you can inflate when they run low or inflate any other inflatables you may have on hand. I’m thinking of picking one up myself because I hate to pay to fill tires at the gas station.
I’ve got one Bethers! If you go back a few posts,, you’ll see photos of it. I agree. That thing is indispensable. I carry fix-a-flat, too. That air compressor kept my tire up long enough for me to get through Memorial Day weekend and drive down to the auto repair shop to have the nail taken out and the tire patched.
Good! I can rest easy now…:)
If you get tired of writing from the RvSue perspective try a post from Spike or Bridget’s viewpoint.
That’s a great idea! I really liked the “resolutions” post. Maybe it’s time for an update.
I’ll give that some thought. I’ll have to be careful not to be too cutesy. Easy to overdo that!
WOW 103 comments ,that has to be close to some kind of record .
WONDER IF WE CAN MAKE IT 200.hint hint
Ron
I cheat by answering every comment. I admit it. I’m shameless.
I am so glad you are a cheater! I know it is a big job to answer all the comments to your blog, but it does give me a nice feeling when you make a comment or two to my comments. Makes me feel as if we are really “friends”. 🙂
This may seem silly, but when someone comments on my blog, I feel it’s the same as someone talking to me in person. If you walked up to me and said something, I couldn’t NOT say something in return. I skip other things like posting my email address and keeping up with a blogroll, so I can concentrate on the comments section.
I agree . . . It does make a friendly atmosphere . . . Plus I learn stuff!
Well I don’t know what happened but like always, I read all of the post, every single word, AND all the comments, every single one. Then I typed up my comment, hit the post button and it totally disappeared. Tried all kinds of tricks to see if I could find it. No luck. So in sum………your blog has more comments than any other one I read. And for sure more male readers. So I’d say you are doing just right as you are. I agree with you that comments matter. I’ll admit I don’t write my blog for myself. I write it for the company it provides me. Writing a blog is a lot of work and it means a lot to know that people are reading and like it and maybe even benefit from it. How would we know without comments? You have to wonder if all 350 people who follow you actually read. That would be AMAZING and for you it might actually be true. You’ve created your own little community. I love it and am trying to do the same.
Your comment to the Duck about reading blogs wasn’t posted when I posted this…honest. OR it took me so long to write this a second time that it was there after all that but not before. So now I had to go back and see what comments I missed while typing my comment. LOL I still feel guilty if people comment on my blog and I don’t comment on theirs knowing how important comments are to me. Do you have a suggestion for how to eliminate that ‘it ain’t fair’ guilt??
How to eliminate the guilt of not commenting on the blog of every person who comments on your own blog? It’s beyond my capability so I don’t feel guilty. I drop in from time to time, rotating through my long list of favorites, and make a comment. If I commented as much as I’d like, I’d be at my laptop all day and wouldn’t have anything to blog about!
I’m sorry you lost your comment. I’ve had the same thing happen to me while replying on my own blog and while commenting on someone else’s blog. Now whenever I write a long comment, I copy it before pushing the “post comment” button.
Yes, a blog is great company. It is like a little community. Good luck developing yours . . . the process never ends!
And I need to get over to your blog and make a comment! It doesn’t help that my computer is like slogging through a bog at every click.
This blog sucks !!! It is the worse blog on the internet !!! Wait!! What is that? Oh, this is RVSUE’s blog….sorry my mistake…..nevermind then…..we LOVE her blog read it everyday !!!
Thought you’d fool me, huh? I knew you were kidding at my blog being the worst on the internet. How could anybody know what’s the worst on the internet? Like my mother used to say… no matter how worse off you are, somebody’s more worse off. Which doesn’t really apply here. Oh well, glad to hear you read my blog every day and that it doesn’t suck for you.
I do read every post but I don’t comment much. I hope to hit the road full-time someday but that’ll be a while down the road. Still, reading your adventures is like reading a serial novel and I love all the adventures of you and the furry ones. Your writing style is quite user friendly and you give loads of great information on travel and RV and going solo. Keep it up!
Your comment is a mood-booster! What nice compliments . . . thank you, Kelly. Thanks for writing.
Sue we men are out here, and reading all that you write….. but we don’t always know what to comment on as we are not as in tune with your feelings as some of the gals. Mostly I enjoy your comments on the problems associated with boondocking and how you go about solving them. I do make comments, when I feel that I might have something to add that would be of a technical nature that you haven’t thought of. But be assured, us guys are out here and reading.
Rod
I guess I need more problems associated with boondocking so I can write about them! (Knock on monitor!) I appreciate your assurance that the guys are still with me. Nice to hear from you again.
post, just one addition, I want to hear more about you painting that you have ordered stuff for
I haven’t done much painting. Too much else to do! It will probably be a winter activity.
I read your blog every day Sue, so i guess there is not much you could change to make me stay tuned in. If I had to say what it is that captivates me, it has to be the way you have so much fun with such little expenses. I also like how you take time to answer all the questions. And you are so patient with repeat comments,,,, like the ones about checking the switch on the memory card. lol
Here I am commenting on your blog while my wife is packing the camper. We are taking a two week trip to the Hot Springs Arkansas area. guess I better go and help her. We are down to two kids and the Yorkie on this trip. I will be reading you tomorrow from somewhere around Eureka Springs.
Take Care
Mark
Salina Ks
Hi, Mark,
I guess you’re in Eureka Springs now. I’ve been told that Arkansas has a lot of really good campgrounds. I hope you have a wonderful time in Hot Springs.
Your comment tells me something no one else has mentioned . . .”have so much fun with such little expenses.” Ain’t that the truth! I could call my blog “Cheapskate Sue and her canine crew!”
Thanks for writing, Mark. Happy camping with your family!
Hi Sue,
I like to read your blog every day and I miss you when you don’t have signal. Isn’t it weird to be so famous? I don’t know if you’ll remember, but I had already been at the point of some serious shopping for a Winnebago View… well, I’ve had a complete change of heart – I figure if you can manage this towing thing, maybe I should stop being such a wimp and try tackling it, too! I’m starting from scratch with this new game plan of a trailer and tow vehicle, trying to figure out which of each. Not sure I can go so small as a Casita, still pondering that part.
Your blog has helped me so much, just seeing how you deal with the day-to-day living. Like your reference to the holding tank situation in today’s post – it was helpful to see how you know it’s getting close to full, but you’re just pushing it to the limit, lol! But it helps because I see you can do that.
Oh, and there’s also that my Trotters is the spitting image of Spike, both in body and in spirit!
Lisa
Hi Lisa . . . interesting comment. I feel like we could sit down together and talk for hours, especially about your plans. I always get a pang of nervousness when someone says they’ve changed a decision due to my blog. You sound happy with the idea of towing a trailer. It’s important that you have a tow vehicle with a long wheel base. That helps eliminate sway when you’re on the road. Also a stabilizer bar on the hitch. I probably don’t even need that, but I don’t think it hurts! If you get a larger trailer than my Casita, the stabilizer bar would be more important. I don’t have an electric jack on the trailer tongue. Some people think they’re great. What you’ve never had, you don’t miss, right?
Too Much Information Alert!!! About the toilet, funny you should mention it as I just was sitting on it. Ha! And getting the feeling that I’m on a countdown to disaster if I don’t hitch up and move on down the road to a dump station. I think I just might duct tape it all around so nothing pops out as we go bumpety-bump out of this camp!
Trotters, nice name . . . Good luck with your plans. I evolved too . . . from a Class C … There is a benefit to waiting, however hard.
Sue, Our friend Pete writes an occasional blog when he travels in his “Wonder Egg”. an Oliver, with Oscar the Smiley Dog. http://peteandthewonderegg.blogspot.com/. He lists Pete and Oscar as contributors and sometimes the posts are written from Pete’s point of view and sometimes from Oscars. This might give you an idea about some postings by Bridget and Spike.
I’ve read those posts! Pete’s very creative. Mick gave me the same suggestion. I don’t know if I could pull that off successfully over the long term. The post about the crew’s New Year’s Resolution seems to be a favorite. That came to me out of nowhere. I’ll think about your suggestion. I don’t want to stray too far from providing info to dreamers and newbies, like myself.
Besides, I’m afraid my blog will become “The Canine Crew and rvsue.” LOL (Spike is domineering enough around here.
I always look forward to your blog as is gives me hope that I’ll be there soon. I was almost there a month ago, downsizing (all my work clothes & stuff donated along with almost all the books), paring down to a few boxes to store at my brothers house), storing stuff for the Casita I was looking for at my Mom’s, distributing some of the old family stuff etc when out of the blue comes a call for an interview the next day. Wed I went – strange interview by the way – and that afternoon I had a job starting the following Monday. Good thing they wear jeans and casual stuff cause I’m not buying more professional type stuff. But after 3 years with no job, a too long for me recovery from a motorcycle accident the month after being laid off, and taking care of my dad (now safely in a nursing home and doing well), i really was fixing the house to sell. Now the plan is build the savings, get the Casita (well I will need to practice on the weekends right?) and get the kitties used to traveling. All of which I couldn’t have done without your blog (well, I could’ve but certainly not confidently). Now I know things to look for and things be concerned about and where to get help. Your blog was a stepping stone and I still look forward to reading it every day. Your challenges have been entertaining as well as educational.
By the way, I learned the hard way to always get an extra card and batteries for the camera. But most importantly, take them with you! I had to buy a card and a camera battery while in the UK and almost croaked spending my hard-earned money designated for travel on a battery and memory card (that seems a long time ago but that money meant I had to skip a tour).
One brother and SIL are tired of hearing me talk about your blog but the other brother and SIL enjoy it! The kitties don’t care but then, they can’t read and so they don’t know what they are missing.
Dear Carla, you have had a time of it! Laid off, bike accident, elderly parent care . . . Good Heavens! I can relate, even though I wasn’t physically injured or laid off. I cared for my parents as they deteriorated in their final years and had to make that hard decision . . . and on top of all that, I had oodles of other problems — emotional, financial, legal — really down in a dark valley. But look at me now…. You are on an upward trend to a higher place. And when you get there, you’ll have more money!
Thanks for acknowledging my blog’s influence on your life. I appreciate the compliments.
I also had to learn the hard way about having an extra card and batteries. I should have bought a card when I bought the new camera. Sometimes my thriftiness is not such a good thing!
I laughed reading about your bro and SIL being tired of hearing you talk about my blog! It’s hard for me to imagine that people are talking about me! Cute ending to your comment. . . Looks like you’ve got some writing talent, Carla!
I admit that I don’t read the comments regularly so I am probably missing out on a wealth of information. I do read your blog everyday and love it! I would like to know one thing. Your daily info is great, but how did you get to the point where you were ready to take out on your own. Is there any one book that you would recommend?
Hi John,,
I didn’t read any books to get ready. I lurked in forums and blogs for seven years. You can learn a lot that way and it’s “on the ground” information. I asked a few questions here and there. I read Tioga George every day and studied his “magazine” articles. I went to http://www.casitaforum.com and http://www.fiberglassrv.com. I also looked at http://www.RV.net, forums on van dwelling, frugal travel, campground reviews, BLM, Nationl Forests, state campgrounds. I researched organizations for RVers and single women. I researched mail-forwarding organizations, trailer manufacturers, specs on vehicles, reviews on equipment . . .You name it! I was on the computer all the time learning stuff. That kept the dream alive, the plan in focus, and me in the realm of the sane.
I couldn’t tell you when I reached “the point where you were ready to take out on your own.” I determined that I would get on the road as soon as I could after retiring and selling my house. I left two days after the closing, ready or not!
I too never comment but read faithfully. I would be interested in how you learned to tow a trailer, if you’re ever afraid as a single woman alone in the boondocks, what you eat etc
Thank you, Kristine, for faithfully reading my blog. I’m thinking of making a page of FAQs and these are good questions!
I learned to tow a trailer by remembering this simple rule which you may have heard before: Hold the steering wheel at the bottom and turn it slowly in the direction you want the trailer to go. If you overdo it and turn too sharply or not sharply enough, pull forward and try again. Expect to try a few times, especially in the beginning, so there’s no reason to get flustered. No one gave me any lessons. I went to the Casita factory, they hitched the BLT to the PTV, and away I went. I had help from a nice guy named Paul at my first camp. After that, I was on my own. So that shows it’s not that difficult!
I’ve never been afraid “as a single woman alone in the boondocks.” I think I’m using good sense in my boondock locations. I also think fear attracts trouble. Just a theory.
What do I eat? You don’t want to know! LOL I’m on the Dukan diet so I eat very little fat or carbs…. no fruit, no junk food, no bread . . . Every morning I have milk with oat bran, a little Greek yogurt for lunch or a hardboiled egg in salad (low-fat cottage cheese for dressing), supper is grilled, lean chicken breast. Every other day I add non-starchy veggies like broccoli. I treat myself occasionally, such as today’s lunch… I dropped some frozen, grilled, unbreaded chicken strips with a third of a jar of salsa into a saucepan and heated it up… Yum! If I want a snack in the evening, it will be a steamed vegetable or some deli, sliced chicken or turkey. Now that’s more than you wanted to know!
Thanks for the explanation. I hate cooking so I wondered what you would eat if you were like me. Also since the Casita is so small I wondered about your food storage spots. I have to agree with the other commenters that a travelogue is not why I read your blog– its all about you
I don’t really care for cooking either. I keep it simple. I store canned goods in a plastic bin in the PTV. The rest is stored in a cabinet where some people put a microwave.
I want to record where I’ve been and what I’ve seen without turning this into a travelogue.
Sue, I have not been commenting lately, but I have been keeping up with you. I would love to see more exact directions and particulars (like what is the realistic type RV that can find a good place to park, level or not, etc} to the places you boondock. Not necessarily while you are there, I know you cherish your privacy, but once you leave. We will be headed to Zion someday, and would love to camp in either picturesque campgrounds, or boondock like you did. We are not RVparkers and sometimes at the more frequented locations I find it hard to find more isolated places to camp. Other than that, I think your blog is great, I love the record of spending, helps me think we might someday be able to full-time.
Hi, Maribeth…
I’m in a “Catch-22” position. I want to tell people how to enjoy a life like mine. I want to share where I boondock. However, when I do, the secluded places I’ve come to love will become places like you and I want to get away from. I haven’t resolved this issue.
I promise to give you the info about rigs and all that you asked for. Right now I’ve got to get on the road!
Your right. We want to keep them as little used as possible don’t we. Happy Travels.
Sue, I know you are retired and moving at your own pace. Who wants a 2nd career? But I just pictured it… RV Sue and her canine crew picture book for children. The camper, the dogs, Sue in her hat with the walking stick…all in water colors. The Adventure at Zion National Park. Spike gets caught in the river current and washes down stream…. The Adventure at the Grand Canyon… It makes me think of the old Trixie Belden or Nancy Drew books my grandmother would give to me and my sister.
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