Wednesday, September 9
Fishlake National Forest southeast of Salina, Utah
Canine Corner: For today’s post Bridget and Reggie take you with them on a favorite trail near our camp.
“Slow down, Reggie. Let’s make this a stroll through the woods, not a race.”
“Okay, Miss B. I’ll try. When I get excited, my legs, they go fast and it’s hard to stop ’em.
“Isn’t this a pretty forest? You want to be a great boondocker, don’t you, Reg?”
“I sure do, Miss B! I’m trying real hard. I guard our camps and I bark at those mean ol’ cows . . . and RVSue says I’m a good boy in the PTV, too.”
“That’s great, Reggie, but there’s more to being a boondocker than behaving in the PTV and barking at cows.”
“There is?”
“Sure. Part of being a boondocker is enjoying nature. Taking the time to appreciate the world around you. If you’re running and hopping and barking, well, that’s okay some of the time, but too much of that and you miss stuff.”
“Oh.”
“Look, Miss B! I’m not missing that #%$@ chipmunk!”
“Good gracious. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about your language. Where did you ever pick up bad words like that?”
“I dunno. . . . Wait! There was this guy I knew. I forget his name. Uh, let’s see . . . Winnie . . . no, Vinnie! That’s it! His name was Vinnie and he was my pal when I was lost on the streets. He showed me how to be a tough guy.”
“I see. He taught you to use those words. Do you know which words I mean, Reg?”
“Yes, ma’am. Oh, look! There’s our camp!”
“You’re changing the subject. You don’t need those bad words to be tough. Remember that. You have a new life with RVSue and me. A different life.”
“I sure do! Boy, if Vinnie could see all this . . . !”
“I need a break. Let’s stop here for a rest in the shade.”
“Aah . . . This is nice.”
“I don’t wanna’ break. I feel like exploring! Yay! Logs!”
“Good. Go play.”
“This is fun! I’m a boondockin’ dog! I’m a tough guy! I jump on logs! I ‘preciate nature! Wheeeee! . . . .”
~ ~ ~
Poor Vinnie. I wonder how the ol’ guy is doin’ . . . .
“C’mon, Reggie! Let’s go. I’ve had enough rest.”
“Comin’, Miss B! You know? I love the forest. You’re right about slowing down and noticin’ things. It’s really pretty here.”
“It’s a good life, Reg.”
“Wow, Miss B! Look at this #@*% place! It’s so $&%# big!”
“Reggie!!! What did I say!!!”
“Oops, sorry. I forgot.”
“We’re almost home. Boy, I could use a drink.”
“Me, too. I’m thirsty. We walked FAR.”
“There it is, Miss B! Home sweet home!”
“You can say that again.”
“Home swee–”
“Shhhh . . . . No talk. Just look at it and experience the moment, Reg, and be grateful for what we have.”
Bridget and Reggie
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🙂
Oh… I missed it. 🙂
Suzi! Clever move! CONGRATULATIONS!
FTP?
Nope. STP. 🙂
What is FTP? I get ‘first’ but what is TP?
First To Post…. That’s my guess.
must be To Post(a comment)
Number 3?? “Couldve been 1st, but had to slow down and read the canine corner! My favorite kind of post!
Priorities… 🙂
Nice shot of Bridget actually looking at the camera while waiting for her turn at
the water dish….
She looks happy.
too funny – the pups are adorable. Beautiful pics !! thank you
You’re welcome, Alice.
Good one, Sue. I had to smile.
I like your reaction!
As the saying goes, you can take the dog out of the street but not the street out of the dog…or something like that.
Reggie is Reggie and we all love him in spite of his behavior.
And he’s going to do better with Bridget’s help. 🙂
Great Blog!!!
Thank you, Lois Joy.
These posts from the POV of the canine crew make me happy. 🙂
Robin
Great!
Great pictures! Colors are fantastic.
Thanks!
Quietly riding along, enjoying your ongoing story illustrated with such beautiful pictures. Like a good book, it draws one into another world. Thank you!
You’re welcome, Kitt.
WOW! I got in pretty close…..3rd in line, I am happy with that! It is so beautiful where you are now! Ms. B is trying her best to reform Reggie and smooth out some of his rough edges…but I like him like he is! It won’t be long until rv’ers will be moving south, what state do you usually winter in? Have you ever stayed in the area of Quartzsite, Az. or are the lots of other good sites in Az. to boondock? I would like to be there in the winter instead of NC…..it get’s cold and snowy here. Enjoy your week and give the babies a hug for me!
Hi, Linda,
We winter in Arizona. Here’s our Christmas card of 2013 showing our camp at KOFA Wildlife Refuge south of Quartzsite.
“To my dear readers, one and all!”
I encourage you to read the old posts. We’ve camped in several places in Arizona.
ok, will do, have been reading some of them but only half way through…thanks!
I feel like I just gave you homework. Haha!
If you give homework…….I will try hard to get it done! haaa, thanks again…
Out of the money again! No first, second or even third! But, I am here. Man, those dogs really carry on lengthy conversations, don’t they. As for Reggie’s mouth, well he better cut that $%#@* out! When you are tucked back in like that Missy, I hope you are thinking about fires. It would be a task to hookup, pack up and drive like hell to get out. I know you are careful though. Nice post Missy.
Hi, Jim,
You are sweet the way you care about us. I promise to keep alert to the potential for fires. This area of the forest has lots of open area and not as many dead trees like at Badger Mountain. You’d be surprised how fast I can hitch up if I need to!
🙂
I’m glad you liked the post. I hope you and Detta are enjoying this day.
What a great Canine Corner! Bridget never gives up and Reggie is trying so hard to get it right! I think HRH is actually smiling in that last shot.
Thanks, Susan.
Yeah, I think she is, too! I can see it in her eyes. She had a good day. I was thrilled to see her walk that far and without any negative after-effects.
Cooler temps maybe help Bridget with walking easier too maybe?
That could be so…
Wow it’s hard to believe that cutie pie, Reggie, would use language like that! He sure is a stinker! Thank you, Sue, I thoroughly enjoyed Bridge and Reggie’s walk. Stay safe and warm. Excited to see where we get to go next!
Have a great day-
Chaunte, Shea, and the Chihuahuas
Hi, Chaunte,
Well, we’re all a product of our experiences and Reggie does have a mysterious past. 🙂
You have a great day, too!
well, I was third, but got side tracked while writing my post and by the time I posted…..there were many other’s, but I am happy just to post anyway…everybody have a great week.
You have a great week, too, Linda!
Hi, Sue,
Thanks for your sweet note on the last post. In my book, time with family and friends is always good, even if things do not go according to plan! 🙂
I absolutely love the pup’s point of view of the stroll on their favorite trail. I was wishing that Gracie and I were in that same trail, meandering and enjoying! Little Reg’s potty mouth comes from livin’ on the streets. I bet he ran with a tough crowd, where he had to act big and macho to hold his own. Bridget looks really good, like she is thoroughly enjoying herself. The hike is fun, not a chore. Love those little pups!
Hope you enjoy the rest of the day! I have to run out to return a Redbox movie; other than that, Gracie and I are savoring a quiet Sunday afternoon. Sending hugs to you and the Crew from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Hi, Denise,
I’ll always wonder what Reggie’s first three years were like, and if there is someone wondering where he is and if he’s okay.
It’s nice having you and Gracie pup on our walk through the forest. Have a good evening!
Your 12th photo below “C’mon,Reggie!…” is my favorite one you’ve taken of Bridget.The white and black of the sunlit aspen trunks and the way the ones without sunlight on them have a light shade of brown that matches her facial markings all make it a setting made to showcase her beauty as it’s center.The forest is lovely in and of itself,of course,yet made all the more so by her presence.
Your values are ones she naturally had and has developed more overtime.How wonderful the you and she together can teach Reggie and your readers to appreciate and have them,too.A thoroughly beautiful post ,Sue,wow!How enchanting that it be given by the voices of your delightful crew.
Thank you, weather. I agree…. Bridget brought her special beauty to that photo.
I imagine you puttering around in your playhouse, looking out one of its windows wondering what views you’ll see . . . . 🙂
Good morning,Sue,I hope it’s a beautiful one where you are.Here on the lake in NY by sunrise the overnight rain changed to a light misting shower.It’s stopped now and as I have outdoor plans on the beach with a friend for the afternoon the timing is perfect.
The T@B’s design and weight allow it to be turned full circle when unhitched so ones favorite view anywhere can be arranged to be seen upon awakening.The attachable tent also has large windows that open to the views on three sides so the entire site’s environment is visible,and breezes can be felt from any direction, from within our living space.It’s fun to choose the right antique dishes,rugs,quilts,etc. to bring.And to imagine how I’d set things up in places I’ve traveled to and will again,at your campsites when I stare at your wonderful photos of each place you go…
Speaking of those,are you about to,or have you very recently moved?I have seen any mention about that.
Oh my, you are having fun! I’m happy for you…. Your T@b sounds perfect!
No, we haven’t moved. I avoid moving on a weekend. The leaves are changing color overnight which is a delight to discover and it’s very pleasant here, no need to move just yet. Expecting rain today…
Enjoy the beach with your friend!
oo-oo-listening to the rain while tucked inside for a bit sounds so nice,I’m glad you don’t need to move yet.Thanks, enjoy your day,too 🙂
Great Post CREW,,,,,, I like Reggie,, he’s Cool, But Bridget’s right about Reggie’s curse words,, One doesn’t need to curse to be great… have a good day,,, crew ,,,,, and Miss Sue Too!,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Lady Piper
Well, Lady Piper… Reggie picked up some bad habits. Like you learning not to howl when Rusty leaves you in the camper, Reggie will get better about his language.
Good night to you and Rusty!
Thank you,, You and your babies have a good night also,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Lady Piper,
The Chiweenie Brothers are watching and learning about boondocking. They are sending slobbery kisses to you Sue and tail-wagging hellos to The Crew.
Hi, Shawna,
A little tutorial from the crew to the Chiweenis Bros! Ha!
We keep saying you need to write a book Miss Sue, but it looks to like you are doing just that! One subheading at a time!
I am sending the link to today’s post to my grandkids, they love the Miss B stories, as do I.
I just got word that an eighty five year old friend’s home was spared in Pinf Grove, it came so close, but in this case a close was a blessing! More than eighty homes lost, including another friend lost their home and barn…hit and miss….bless,those firefighters..they work so hard. Butte fire. Now another fire is roaring west of the Sacramento area and already over a hundred homes lost….pray for rain!
Thanks for this delightful post today, lovely photos, you are simply put……wonderful!
Wondering HOW my kin in CA are breathing of late?? SO terrible…poor people!!
Elizabeth I have been praying for the firefighters and the residents near the two huge fires. Here in Sacramento we aren’t breathing very well. I feel so bad for all those people who lost their homes and the Butte and Lake fires are still eating up acres and homes.
Thanks for the reminder to pray for them all, Linda…prayers never hurt!! My aunt in Sacto area recently had triple bypass surgery…I hope she is staying INSIDE right now!!
You’re welcome, Lee J. … I didn’t realize there still are bad fires raging in northern California as I don’t always keep up with the news reports. That must be heartbreaking for those folks. I’m glad you and your property are not in danger.
Sue it’s hard to keep track its moving so fast. The Valley Fire south of Lakeport near Clear Lake only started around 1 Saturday afternoon and in about 27 hours was 40,000 acres and at least 400 homes and several small towns nearly gone. Word out of at least one death. The other near fire is the Butte as mentioned and over 65000 acres and less than a week old. At least 150 homes gone there. It’s very bad. I’m just east of Sacramento and we had yellowish murky air all weekend. I’m staying in to protect my sensitive lungs. And praying for safety for all. And those are just the two closest to Sacramento.
Read the news before I went to sleep 100 homes gone. Woke up and it was 400. Very sad. I have friends that have places in Clear Lake and up near Pine Grove, Murphys and Arnold.
The unpredictability path of wildfires is scary Mary! Lots of folks wait until the last moment..thinking it won’t happen to them. If you can see it..you are too close!
Reminds me of the Oakland firestorm…people didn’t have a chance. The aftermath of destruction and the smell is still vivid in my memory…looked like a graveyard for chimneys. Cats survived…dogs didn’t. We were searching for bodies (human) … Of course I was trying to figure out how to catch the animals. ?
Thoughts are heavy for those who are all affected…prayers for the brave firefighters who are on the front lines!
Oh I remember that fire so well! I went to an AA meeting in San Francisco, near GG Park. We went in about 11am, with blue skies. Came out about 1pm and skies were dark gray and all parked cars covered with ash! Smoke from Oakland fire had traveled across the bay. What a terrible fire. I haven’t been to Bay Area in several years. Wonder if you can still see the damage.
Most of the structures have been rebuilt. You can see the lack of trees in the Hiller Highland area near lake temescal.
People are good about clearing the brush near their homes.
I finally got around to reading the news… It is bad. Yes, be careful, take care of yourself, Velda.
Love the dialogue! They are both adorable! Love the pictures. Have a good day!
You. too, Piper. Thanks!
Love those tales from the crew. Sounds like they were having an enjoyable walk down the lane.
Hi, Barbara,
It was the best walk we’ve had in a long time. The weather and light, perfect that morning, and Bridget was in fine form….
That was one of your best canine posts! The weather and surroundings look great and you have two wonderful (and funny) companions. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Have a good one, Sue!
Chris B
Hi, Chris B and Clete and Diego…. Thank you!
Our newspapers today were full of photos of all the burnt up places in this state and sadly what it means to the folks who used to live there. I was thinking, Sue…how nice you are able to be in beautiful GREEN forests!!
Yes, we are very fortunate! And this green forest is beginning to show bright colors of red, yellow, and gold foliage…
Adorable post!
Glad you liked it!
Sue, have you driven 191 from Duchesne to Price? If you haven’t, add it to your list of roads to avoid. Rough, bumpy, narrow and towards the middle you climb to 9114 feet. My truck was in first gear as we approached the summit. Never again. We spent the last week at Atelope Flats CG on Flaming Gorge. It was beautiful all week.
Ha! Your comment makes me laugh. Oh yes, we’ve been on 191 twice. I wrote about it in a post called “Driving to the moon and landing in Duchesne, Utah.”
The title gives you an idea of what I thought of it!
I was thinking of Antelope Flats last night. That is a beautiful spot. We didn’t stay at the campground but we had a view of that amazing rock from a boondock a bit north of the campground, across the water. I enjoy reading where you travel, John. Have fun!
Oh yeah, I remember that post…too late for me…I will put a skull and crossbones on my map.
I couldn’t remember if you stayed at the CG or not. The spot you boo docked in looked familiar from our backyard. 🙂
There’s one good thing about that road… It goes to Duchesne. I like that little town.
Ms. B seems to be enamored with the new crew member, Reggie. In the past, she always gave you the “evil eye” when you took her photo and now she is all smiles. Nice to see you all so happy, having a good time and enjoying your new camps.
Hi, Virginia,
It’s hard to say what makes Bridget happy and willing to be photographed one day and not the next. She was feeling very good the day I took that photo. Thanks for the sweet note.
Love it when the crew blogs! They are quite a pair.
I think so, too… Nice to have you stop by, Sharon…
Got a chuckle out of the crew and their walk in the woods. Such a pretty place.
It is a treat to see sunshine, even in a photo. It has been raining here for over two days straight. Off to my hometown city of Toronto on Monday for my husbands yearly hospital appointment. Hate all the big trucks on the highway. To think we spent twenty years driving back and forth every weekend. Glad we only go down occasionally now.
Enjoy that beautiful camp.
Hi, Val R.,
Always happy to bring some sunshine to my readers…. I’m glad it’s raining somewhere, although I know it becomes dreary after a while…
Isn’t it amazing what we did in our younger years? The commutes and hassles? I don’t think I could get up at 5:30 and go to work like I did all those years. Yuck.
Best wishes for your husband’s appointment…. and have a safe trip!
Happy Day, Happy Pups, Happy Post……Happy ME!!
Loved this one!
Hugs to all
Love you, Pauline.
OMG, this post was so cute and very philosophical, too. I hope Miss B is able to break Reggie of his cussing habit and get him to slow down and smell the fresh air 🙂
Hi, Marcia,
The divine Miss B will prevail! And Reggie wants to be a good boy….
You have a good evening!
It’s always fun to hear from The Crew. Love the smiling Miss Bridget at the end. They’re both so cute.
I posted from my phone several hours ago. I think it went into never-never land, but if I end up with a double post later on, I didn’t mean to!
Just wanted to say that once again your list of Amazon purchases was useful. We’ve been looking for something to put on our garage windows to help even out the temps in there. Hubby is trying to make it into a shop, and here in the South, it gets just miserable in the summer. We’re going to add an air conditioner, but even so, it will be swimming upstream without something to physically block some of that heat! That film looks like just the thing!
Enjoy your lovely, forest-y boondock. I can almost smell the fresh air from here!
Great to have some feedback on the links, Suzette. I know what you mean about your shop in the South. I had a garage in Florida that was like a sauna. I hope the window film helps!
OMGosh, Sue – Your pups did a great job subbing for you! You have taught them well. So pleased they found their way back to the campsite :0) I really liked the view inside the woods, with all the white bark of the aspens. Beautiful. Thank you.
You’re welcome, Pamalab,
There’s nothing quite like a walk in aspen woods. Not only is the white bark lovely, the light through the aspen leaves turns them bright green, as if it were the first day of spring and not September. Some of the aspens have turned bright yellow already and there are other trees I haven’t identified yet that are turning red and orange.
Ah, sweet memories. But, I never miss the snow and ice from Thanksgiving to Easter. You have been there and now you are in a better situation, certainly :0)
Sigh. So lovely. Reggie has a lot to learn and Miss B is the perfect for the job. I know he’ll catch on quick, being the bright little fellow that he is.
Yes, Reggie is a smart little guy. You know what he does? When we’re walking and he’s on his tether, of course, he makes sure he doesn’t get the tether caught by walking on the other side of a rock or tree. If he makes the mistake and does that, unlike some dogs that would just pull and pull, Reggie backtracks along the tether until he comes around unsnagged. I’m very impressed! 🙂
Reggie is an alpha male, intelligent and a survivor. That is how he managed on the street.
He’s perfect for boondocking!
When I moved to Houston from Michigan, I knew the Autumn would be the one season I would miss, for sure. Some leaves turn and fall here, but not like up north. Lucky you :0)
Hi, Pamelab,
I felt that loss, too, when I moved from northern New York to Florida. . . missed it all — the apple cider, dried milkweed pods, marshes turned gold, pumpkins on the vine, of course, the quaint scenes of red barns and hay bales and shocks of corn in the field… You know what I mean… 🙂
Jumping into piles of leaves, or even just walking through them, kicking along and rustling – and later, the smell of them burning. Crisp, juicy apples. Halloween (it seemed like it always snowed), then the first “real” snow, ice skating and the warming hut…
(This is when we head south, right? :D)
I do miss all of that too though!
I don’t miss having my feet go numb, driving on ice, and shoveling snow. 🙂
That’s so true! I always felt that I could enjoy winter as a retired person (not that I do anymore, but theoretically speaking); but what really made it a lot less fun was having to get up, break the ice off the car (in the dark), go to work (leaning forward to conserve precious body heat, and alternating which fingers gripped the icy wheel), possibly driving in conditions that you really shouldn’t be, then come home again in the dark…
Contrast that to getting up at a leisurely pace, throwing a few logs on the wood stove, looking out the windows at the fresh white blanket of snow…. and then hunkering down with a book and some coffee.
Of course saying that, I no longer winter up north, so take this with a big flake of snow. But I think I *could* enjoy it a lot more not having to integrate it with the daily grind.
Except as a retired person (assuming mature age), one slip on ice could mean a nasty break and a long hospitalization. My balance isn’t what it used to be. Yes, the snow and icicles are pretty…
Good point. We will wax nostalgic and walk on Arizona gravel and sand 😀
… and I’ll trip over a prickly pear and break my hip. Hahahahhaaaa!
Yeah…I am in Vermont for the foliage…missed it last year!!
Have a glass of fresh cider for me, Krystina. 🙂
Krystina,
I would believe the foliage to be stunningly beautiful in Vermont! I have ALWAYS wanted to go there but have, as of yet, never been. I remember reading about Vermont and its beauty way back in my early school days studing the different states. Later, in the 7th grade, we had to pick a state to write to their chamber of commerce for state info and tourist info. Most everyone took the big states to write to. Texas, Calf., Fla. but I took Vermont. They sent me a lot of fun stuff to keep too. Little trinkets with some of the local area logos on them. I carried one of those keychains for EVER, lol. Maybe on day I, too, will see Vermont. For now I enjoy your seeing it for me 🙂 It must be as beautiful now as it was then in the early 1950s and 1960s, only different now. Even so, nature has its own way of shinning through even the most developed areas. Currier and Ives, and Kincaid come to mind…Fall colors and later Light On The Snowfalls.
Good Morning Pamela K and Bloggerinos 🙂 Thank you for telling me your story!! Loved it. When I was about 18, I took a busfrom NJ to visit a friend who had moved to Vermont. The first glance at the Green Mountains had me hooked…I new I would move here one day. Mesmerizing to me. When I got married my husband and I went on vacation to Vermont every year to fish. I investigated EVERYTHING about living in Vermont so I could present my “case” to hubby. Good news…he thought it was an excellent idea! 🙂 Phew!!
So SWEET!!!
🙂
Love these canine conversations. It almost seems like you (Sue) aren’t there and Miss B and Little Man are out for a stroll on their own. Some things never change … boys will be boys and a lady will always try to “civilize” them!
Hi, Cynthia…
Good to know you enjoyed the crew’s conversation. This post takes the record for number of canine butt shots. 🙂
Thanks for your tour Miss B. and Reggie! I’m on a hill trying to appreciate nature but I’m looking through a whole lot of smoke. It’s been beautiful here but the wind has changed. I guess it’s time to move on. Say “Hi” to RVSue for me.
You’re welcome, Miss Marilu. — Bridge and Reg
Oh, that’s no good…. smoke! Hi, Marilu…. Yes, it probably is a good time to move. I’m glad that you can…
Such a sweet post. Filled with nature, pups and tender moments!Bridge and Reggie thank you!
You’re welcome, Miss Karen. — Bridge and Reg
HA….I just love those 2 when they do their own blog……
and I love the way Bridge sits down and her hind quarters….
thanks for the great post and pictures…you made my day…
chuck
You’re welcome, Chuck. It was fun having the crew take over!
Sue,
Klemper and I were laughing the entire post, loved it! Always great when Reggie and Bridget have *their talks*.
And Reggie has a *pottie mouth*. Just too funny & cute, LOL. And here we thought only Golden Retrievers (swim-dogs) cussed like Sailors! Who Knew?! Well, we won’t tell *Her Bearness*, she takes such pride in sounding off at the big boys down the block 🙂
Pamela and Klemper… Glad you got a laugh out of it. 🙂
Yep, and Bridgeeee was certainly in her element on the day. She looked so happy! I think she liked the change of season, fresh air and cooler temps. Her eyes looked so lively in that last photo on the page 🙂 Our temps today were in the mid-70s for the high!!! Perfect weather by day and great cooler temps for the low. Perfect for sleeping. Tomorrow? Back into the high 80s. That’s early Fall in Georgia, ya know!
Sleep well Sue and Crew 🙂
Thanks, Pamela, we did. 🙂
@*!# fine blog 🙂
Um . . . gee . . . thanks, Joe. 🙂 I’ll have to get Bridget after you!
LMA(butt)O at Joe now 🙂
He totally gets it 😉
What a great pair your little boondockers make! I love how patient Miss B is with Reggie and Reggie, well, such a boy with tremendous exuberance! The photos are great, as always. Great blog!
Thank you, Deborah!
So glad the Bridget was having such a good day! I’m so envious of the green trees and clear blue skies. It’s so hot, dry and smokey here. I can hardly wait for fall and or winter. It was a delight to read this post.
Be alert and careful, Linda Rose… I hope the air improves soon with “clear blue skies” for all the folks in northern California.
“Yay! Logs!”
😀 😀 😀
It’s the simple things that make life fun…
Isn’t that just so true. But now, as an added bonus, when I notice myself finding/enjoying new/fun simple things, I can say to myself “Yay! Logs!” (Or I suppose say it out loud, and see if people start giving me a lot more personal space.)
Pen,
Yay! Logs! …. Isn’t it fun about those logs?! In that one photo of Reggie looking over that log in to the grass, I too, had to look close and see what he might be seeing there. Something caught his fancy, that look told it all 🙂 I love being able to mirror their footsteps with them. And yes, finding a fine log is one of the best parts for climbing, resting, eating a snack and enjoying the moment 🙂
LOVE it! The dialogue and pictures were just what I needed to kick off the work week. 🙂 And a question for any reading the comments…..anyone full-timing in a van? If so, would you mind sharing the pros & cons as you see them? I am exploring all possibilities right now. Thank you for any information you feel like sharing. Have a great week all! MB from VA (for now)
Hi, MB,
This blog does have readers who are vandwellers. I’m sure you’ve already done a google search of “vandwellers” which will bring up the vandweller organization as well as cheaprvliving blog.
READERS WHO FULL-TIME IN A VAN: Any info you’d like to share?
My van was for snowbirding but I lived in for six months at a time. The best thing I did was put in a counter for a desk with a wheeled desk chair I could bungee to it for travel. It was wonderful being comfortable while computing or eating. And I loved being able to take afternoon naps before finishing the drive to my destination.
Sounds great. I will have a computer job to attend to as I travel. And a nap with the breeze blowing in the door sounds so nice. 🙂
I did that. I will list some pros and cons, but the thing is, they are my pros and cons, and everyone is different. I liked living in a small cabin in the woods, too, and I’m sure many people would prefer something bigger and more “modern.”
Anway….
Pro’s
Great “road tripping” rig, if you like to do that. Relaxing to drive, you can fit in any gas station, easy to park, you can choose *either* the car or truck area at rest areas (car side is quieter), no-one necessarily knows what you’re up to (RV-ing), 16-18 mpg hwy. (mine anyway). BTW, I have driven big rigs plus towing and am happy and comfortable doing so. But it’s still fun to zip around in a van, and just for one example, I had to take my computer in to a shop that was in a mall…. I just drove in, parked in a normal spot, and went in. Done.
Can turn around just about anywhere, so easy to explore backroads with.
You can do everything from the couch (LOL).
Just feels super efficient and compact. A lot of the “things” that bigger RV’s need or want, you can just dismiss (either you don’t need them or you don’t have space for them).
No need for a toad (or a trailer). Basically, just the essentials, but it’s a world apart from a car or SUV in terms of…. it’s a little house!
In nice weather, it’s hard to beat the open side doors of a van for making your living room “part of the campsite.”
Cons (again, my list):
Mine had a top that made it hard to fit solar (but now that I have my thin panel portable setup, I realize I could have done that with the van easily).
It’s small. Now this does not apply as much if you are getting one of the new Sprinter types that is long, tall, etc. But I had your typical American van. Porta potti only, the walls narrow as they rise so it’s not really a box shape. Limited storage and very little outside storage (although there are “trunks” that fit on the rear hitch if you don’t have anything to tow).
In nice weather, it’s glorious. In rainy or cold weather, it’s perfectly comfortable to hole up in, but you’re not walking around from room to room pondering and puttering.
Quite a few things are typically smaller: Two burner stove, small fridge, little sink. You don’t typically get a huge table/booth (although you may). If you have “tankage” it will likely be smaller (I had 15 gallons fresh water, and around 10 gallons grey, and that was it).
If you are the type of person who hates converting things, it would be a drag, because everything works six ways (I happen to like that, but not everyone does). Of course you have to get into a much larger rig for that not to be a factor. Some of these pros and cons also apply to other small rigs (and some don’t).
You may not be able to have tons of outdoor stuff along (depending on layout, whether you have a hitch “trunk” or etc.).
No toad (typically, although I did tow one for a short time when a friend had a spare one – 17′ van, 15′ toad ;)) But then you don’t need one either.
If you like to set up a camp and then go away and come back to said camp, you’d need something like the trunk and then a screen house or etc. That way you can set up a camp and go away and come back something like Sue does, although not exactly the same. I did that in winter when I was basically only shuffling a short distance between camps every couple of weeks (I just crammed the tent and stuff into my rig for the transition drive). That gave me a big outdoor “living room” to come back to (tent, rug, chairs, table, etc.). But it was CRAMMED when I was driving from place to place, so not so good for summer “on the move” travel (but then I tend to move around more in summer).
Okay, I’ve kind of slipped from the straight pros and cons list, but really, they are just notes because my pros might be your cons and etc. If I had to boil it all down, I’d say that it’s just like boats: There is no perfect one. So you have to figure out if there is one that best fits what you’d like to do. Sometimes a choice of rig will end up shaping your experience, vs. the other way around. This can be a good or a bad or a neutral thing. Bad if you can’t do what you wanted to; maybe good if you weren’t sure anyway and it ends up fitting you well, or you discover something new you like due to it.
So at the risk of boxing yourself in to something you don’t end up liking anyway, maybe think about the general way you like to travel and camp. For one obvious example, RV Sue basically “lives” in a campsite for a couple of weeks, then drives a relatively short distance to the next one. I tend to live the same way in winter, but in summer I like to ramble more. I also tow a boat sometimes, so that influences me.
Or do you like to travel, stop for a day or two, then ramble on? Totally spur of the moment? “Camp” enroute wherever the fancy strikes? Or look for established campgrounds always and settle in? Or a mix….
I like a mix, so I can never have a rig that is perfectly developed for one thing. What I mean is, say you like to just drive from RV park to RV park, then go out and tour the “sights” from your RV park. And complexity doesn’t worry you. Then you can just go get a nice, 36′ class A with small toad, and there is no question that is the rig! Of course you can boondock like you mean it with a rig like that too, if you are determined to; but what I mean is that in the latter case it’s no longer an obvious “best” choice.
I like to ramble and “tour” sometimes. Sometimes I like to settle in and develop a homey campsite. Other times I tow a boat. Or maybe there is a spur of the moment trip ‘cross country to visit a friend, and I just pull over when I feel like it enroute, then get up and drive some more. Maybe I pull into a little parking lot and have lunch (just step in back…). So I can never have the ideal rig for any of these things, because I want one that will do them all (for me).
Oh, as long as this is totally disjointed already: One thing I like about a trailer, is that if you choose one that can be long lasting (Airstream, fiberglass, maybe others), and if you are the type to hang onto things, then you can develop and customize it however you like, because it will easily last 30 years. Just update the tow rig when you feel like it or need to. Anything with a built in engine will tend to age out (unless you get a commercial bus or something). Even if you keep it up mechanically, well, let’s just say that most people would not want to be driving around a 1976 Tradesman van at this point (no offense, just picked that out of a hat). It would be more primitive than many folks would accept nowadays. This is of no import to people who sell things after a few years anyway. But I have had small fiberglass trailers and I did really like that feature. Mine was 35 years old and still going strong, although I have had many vehicles (tow) during that time period.
I now have a very small Class C, and it suits my purposes well. A little bit less nimble than the van. Definitely more complex and with more features (although I have slimmed it down quite a bit). I had to give up my “great” mpg (although usually that’s more psychological than anything, given the big picture). But on the other hand it’s quite a bit more comfortable in a “house” way, and not much less nimble. I can still tow a boat. It’s better for holing up in on a rainy day, and I can easily boondock for two or more weeks.
But do I think about a truck/van and trailer? Sure do. I lust after those huge underbody storage bins in a Class A sometimes, too 😀 And I wouldn’t mind a camper van again either…. maybe four-wheel-drive this time….
I hope you find something useful in the above jumble.
Well done, Pen! Thank you!
Did you have to stop for a snack (or an aspirin) half way through? 😀
Thank you so much for your time, opinion and knowledge. I live very simply now. I have actually been living in one room (for the most part) since last fall. I wanted to see if I “really” wanted to live that small. I LOVE IT! I have no desire to go back to whole house living. I know there are things I will have to give up to go even smaller……but what I plan to gain far outweighs anything I will loose. I have been to different blogs ect. about van dwelling but I so respect the people who comment on this blog. I was interested in what they had to say. Thank you again for the time it took to type this out for me. Have a wonderful day! MB from VA (for now)
You’re welcome, MB! I, too, enjoy compact efficiency and relative simplicity. Sounds like you’ll be in your element.
Pen sums Van living up beautifully! Great viewpoints on the subject and the experience of having vast options is well addressed.
While I do not live in a Van, I do have my Van set up as if I could live in it full-time. This is because I love to go for extended periods to explore and sightsee. Right now I am in the last phase of my plans for a 60+ day trip taking in the entire Florida Coastline, leaving from Altanta, Ga, and back up the back way through Alabama. So you can see that Van dwelling, even for a shorter time, has to work in much the same way as full-timing. The bed, one of the most important components of comfort while Van camping or dwelling. Often too little attention is given to the mattress. Get a really good one! Many suppliers of matresses will custom cut a regular matress to fit your bed size and platform. It costs but is worth every dollar in return for a good night’s rest. Your night’s rest will aide you or hamper you from being able to fully enjoy long drives, rainy days and nights. Along those lines comes having a good breakfast, always! Even if you just have oatmeal or fresh fruits, it will set your day to a better start so having some kind of kitchen is key or at the very least a good backpacker’s stove…a JetBoil even.
Some of the things I carry with me in my Van travels:
Patio Mat like Sue’s.
Screen Room that only needs me, one person, to put up and take down.
Comfy camp chair with side table. (I also have a clip on umbrella for it, comes in handy and has it’s own bag for storing it when not in use).
Small folding table that fits in the Van as well as for outdoor use. Great for rainy days and for computer surfing in the evenings. Mine is round and can be tucked in to many places in the Van.
Coleman Portable Outdoor Kitchen. Packs tight and love using it in boondocks. I use it with both the Van and our Airstream Travel trailer, love it!
A good 12 Volt/DC/AC Fan. Poad Pro makes a nice one.
12 Volt RoadPro Oven, great to use on travel days while driving.
Port-A-Pottie, mine is the larger Thetford XL.
Cooler, YETI 65, ice lasts for days when you use the bag ice. Blocks of ice will last much longer.
Refexit shades…have them for all windows. A tip here…if you plan to visit Metro areas and on the parking lot thing you can paint one side of the Reflexit panels with paint used for painting plastic. You can paint them a flat black on the one side facing out. Doing this brings less attention to your stealth camping 🙂
I travel with a deck of cards, movies, a board game, puzzles, great for rain days. And a short wave weather radio.
Back to cooking…My stoves, yes stoves. A Trangia 27 stormcooker cookset. A Trangia 28 Mini-T for quick lite foods or hot drinks. A Coleman Camp stove for main meals. Why so many stoves, each has its own uses and ease of use. The Trangias take up almost zero room and are self contained complete with bowls and skillets. I keep them in a waterproof dry bag as they do sut-up until I can clean them good later.
Big Buddy Heater.
1800 Watt free standing Power Station plus two onboard inverters. Will go solar soon.
A good -Zero sleeping bag for late Fall camping.
I also keep an electric heated mattress cover on the bed for Late Fall and Winter camping. Whn not in use just keep it under the main mattress furing the other months. Those are great for when you camp in a campground with electric hookups.
Recently I purchased pre-made screen panels for all my Van doors. I haven’t put them in yet but have high hopes they will work well for my upcoming Fla trip.
Well, the list goes on and on, always something to tweek or change up, lol. Lastly a very good roadside auto service club…AAA, Good Sams, USAA or the likes and a really loud, large Air Horn. The kind that comes in a canister. I carry two of them as well as your fire and carbon safety stuff.
Anyway, hope some of this helps. After a while it gets pretty old hat so it is hard to know what will help and what is already known.
Most realistic equipment advice I’ve read in a long time! Paint the silver Reflexit black, never thought of that, even though done my fair share of hiding in plain sight. Re screen room, do you have the newer Coleman that (sort-of) pops up? Do you ever stake it down? I love sitting inside that thing. Like being on a front porch.
My screen room is like rectangle, has the same X-design for the poles that many backpacker tents have to them. The poles are steel with chains inside so they calaps easily and fit small into their own bag. I did try a pop-up shelter at first but it was too heavy to lug out and get put up with just me doing it so I went for the X-design…love it! Yes, sometimes I stake it down but it can also stand-free which is nice for some concrete camping options or a quick reprive from the direct sun. I almost always have it out when space and/or rules allow for it. 🙂 Anyway, I hope I explained it right for you. Think of a packpacker’s bug-out tent, two long arched poles in an X-design only larger, 10X12. BTW, they make ones with fiberglass rods now…but those tend to break in high winds or if you step on them, lol, when setting them up. I opted for the steel rods 🙂
Can you post a link to the screen room?
I’d like to know the model too – sounds interesting.
Thank you Pamela! Such good ideas! I can’t wait! 🙂
Always nice to see a smile on Bridget’s face.
The smoke in central WA has moved away and we’re expecting high temps in the upper 60s and lower 70s for a few days. Looks like summer – at least around here – is over. We’ll see how the alleged monster el nino does to us this winter.
Not that you have to worry much about winter. Just move south and stay lower. 😀
We hope to head south in our RV in December.
Thanks for the nice stories. 🙂
WDR
You’re welcome, WDR. A breath of fresh air for you Washingtonians… good to hear!
Hi WDR,
I tend to notice your posts, because of a few things in common (old kayaker, considered an older Foretravel, plus a few other things.). Anyway, last winter in Arizona I saw a few nifty U225 (or maybe U240)’s out boondocking, and wondered if they were you. I hope you have a great trip south this year!
Fun story and beautiful pictures! Love the one of the BLT and PTV framed by the leaves!
Hi, Laurie,
Thank you…. How many different ways can I take a photo of the BLT and PTV? Haha!
To The Divine Miss B and Mr. Reggie – Thank you for a lovely blog! The pictures are amazing and you all did a great job on where to take a walk. Miss B, you are a very patient teacher with Reggie, and Reggie, you do a very good job of listening to Miss B. That interaction and intelligence will get you far. Please continue to enjoy your stay. I have to mow today, not looking forward to it, but it has to be done. I’m taking my hairy dog, Olive, in for her monthly ‘spa’ treatment. She loves coming out of there with very soft combed hair, but I don’t think she likes the bath too much! Keep enjoying!
Kay from KC!
Hi, Kay,
I assume this will be the last mowing of the growing season. Wow, Olive lives the good life — monthly spa treatments!
On behalf of the crew, thanks for the compliment on the walk-through-the-forest post.
I’m thinking about a van as well. I just don’t have much money to spend so a van seems like the way to go. Any info would be appreciated.
Hi, Ginger,
See the excellent information shared by Sidewinder Pen (above) a few minutes ago…
Depending on what vehicle you have now, I’d say something like a small fiberglass trailer (Scamp 13′ type) and station wagon would be very economical. Especially if you already own the tow vehicle (I’d want 2,500# towing capacity for a 13 plus loaded car). I’m presuming that you’re keeping your “base” home and just taking trips though. You *could* full time in the above combo (people do), but your challenges would be weight and space. Hard to beat for economy though, plus you have interchangeability between tow rigs (can be important if you are buying older and one craps out).
OTOH, if you can find a good van, that can be cheap too. I bought a great camper van from the original owners (was in very good condition) for $6000, put on new tires and had the front brakes done, and full-timed in it for two years without having to put much more money or work into it (although I do maintenance religiously, not saying I neglect things, but I mean nothing really “failed”).
Of course you can get cheap Class C’s and cheap huge trailers too, but I find that tends to be more of a money and time soak, just because there is more there. For me on a budget I’d go camper van, or small fiberglass trailer and simple tow rig.
One more note is that some “Class B” camper vans are quite expensive. I lucked out on mine, but then I also drove halfway across the country to get it (this is typical :D). BUT, a regular van or a “conversion van” is usually much cheaper, and can work fine if you don’t mind the “dorm room” style of Sterilite drawers, a simple bed platform, etc. (or a variation on it).
Dear Pen, you are a wealth of knowledge. I hope to gain some of it from you when I am out there. Thank you for sharing.
Pen, please talk to me like I am totally ignorant, because I am. I am ONLY interested in a van. No trailer. I don’t know what conversion van means and when I google it I find things that cost 50000+. Not happening. I am thinking some sort of van I can get for like 10k or so. Something I can drive all the time, even when I am home in AZ. I want to use it to travel in summer, be able to go to NY and ‘camp’ in friends driveway.
Hi Ginger,
No problem, happy to share what I know. I understand what it’s like when you are in a new field and it’s confusing. Ugh!
Anyway, vans, IMO:
First of all, you have three basic categories of chassis.
1) Mini van. These can be used, but it’s going to be tight and cargo weight capacity will be lower.
2) Full-sized “American” van (traditional). These would be Ford E-150/E-250/E-350 (the numbers refer to load capacity and heavy dutiness); the Chevy or GMC like Sue has, and the Dodge Ram van. I’m most familiar with Ford, so I can talk about that. Again, IMO.
1992 began a new body style, with a driver’s side air bag. Still “older” engine types. So I’d go at least 1992.
1997 they brought in new engine types, with a passenger airbag, the “modern” dash/console, and ability to read codes yourself, etc. Ideally, I’d go with this vintage (and have, twice). I feel like you can sort of get a deal on ’97-’99 because they sound older than 2000-plus, but have most of the advantages of the slightly newer ones. I had an E-250 and that was a good capacity for a camper van.
3) New Euro style vans: Sprinter, Transit, Promaster. These are all going to be really expensive, so I won’t address them.
So now the types of vans:
1) Cargo van
May have nothing in the back, fewer windows. But a blank slate.
2) Passenger van
Has windows all the way around, although they are not camper windows (may not open, no screens, etc.). Have lots of seats, but can be removed. Have semi-finished walls, ceiling, etc.
3) “Conversion van.” These were very popular back in the 80’s and 90’s. They are converted, similar to camper vans, but are more of a highway cruiser style conversion rather than a specific camper one. So they have larger windows but part of them may open, more seats (oftentimes luxurious ones). Maybe a convertible bench/couch in the rear. Wooden cubbies and lighting, maybe a TV in the overhead. Typically no water or grey tanks, no sink or stove. But they can be had economically. They often times have a slightly raised fiberglass roof, although not usually high enough to quite stand up in.
4) Camper van or Class B van (basically the same thing). These have been converted specifically for camping, although detail vary. They usually will have a sink, maybe a stove and a small fridge. Possibly a “bathroom” or maybe a Porta Potti in a cupboard that you slide out. They may have more of an RV electrical system, although typically ANY RV is going to need mods if you want to boondock with solar, etc. Some have a high top you can stand up in, others have a “pop top.” These can be expensive (but you never know!). After all, they have many of the systems of a larger RV, but builders have to work around the small space.
Does that help? If I had a way to privately get you my e-mail address or phone number, I’d say give a call, but we can do it here instead. Maybe others will chime in and/or use the info.
*****
PS: I think from reading your past posts, that you may use a rig similar to the way I do in some ways. In other words, maybe 40% boondocking or camping something like RV Sue; 40% road tripping; 20% daily driver.
When I did this, the camper van was great. I lucked out and was able to find a “real” camper van (Class B van). 1997, $6000, in good shape. A friend owns it now, still ticking along 🙂
I did have to hunt and then be ready to jump/travel. But even if you can’t, there are still good vans to find. I look for good condition (both mechanically and cosmetically), one-owner, service records, garaged. I don’t always get all those things, but they are on my search preference mental list.
Don’t know if we will ever need any of this information, Pen, but thanks so much for sharing…one never knows…and you have great ideas!! Also, good place to direct others wanting to know more of these things…I enjoy hearing about the ways you cook etc. even!!
Ginger,
I would think a Van would be a wonderful answer for a short budget. And if saving some dollars later is an option then the Van could be the tow vech for a small travel trailer later, if you choose. I would opt for a good sized engine in a full sized Van, not a mini. A half ton with a 350 V8 or such. Depending on your style of Vaning you most likely would not need 4 wheel drive but you can never have too much engine power 🙂 I’m very happy camping in my Van. If I had known then what I know now I may have opted for a RoadTrek or a Sprinter instead of our Airstream TT. I like Van camping that much! Of course for full-time RVing I do like the extra room and add-ons of the Airstream. It’s always a hard question to figure an answer for. But at heart I’m a Van camper kinda gal 🙂 Ginger, you can get a nice used Van that’s well appointed for under $10,000. Many are in the 5,000-7,000 range, milage and use is always a factor but good buys are out there. Just before TAX time is always a great time to look too. Seems people will part with their nicer vans to pay their TAX bills. Same with travel trailers. Win! Win!
Oh! And another very nice thing about having a well appointed Van. If you get a travel trailer later and any repairs are needed then you still have the comfy Van to stay in while those repairs are being completed. If its the Van that needs repairs, the TT serves that need 🙂 It’s a great option compo for down the road later as you expand your camping needs.
This is fun. Anyway, Ford 1997-and-later specific, but with that rig it’s not necessary to have the largest engine. I’ll tell you why I say this. There is a 6.8 liter V-10 (largest) and a 5.4 liter V-8 (medium) (some vans also have a 4.6 liter V-6, but I think that’s rarer).
Anyway, my E-250 camper van, which weighed in at around 7,600# when loaded for a trip, and was towing (often) a 4,600# trailer had no problems with the 5.4 V-8 (the middle sized engine). And I towed over high mountain passes etc.
I now have a heavier rig (10,000#) with the V-10. It performs about like the van did with the medium sized engine, and the V-8 is often cheaper to buy (or rather, others eschew because they want the biggest). I got 16-18 mpg highway with that 5.4, and 12 or so in town or towing. The V-10 doesn’t do that well.
So, nothing wrong with the V-10, but for my money in a van I’d go for the 5.4 V-8. Cheaper maintenance, possibly cheaper purchase price, and slightly better mileage (2-3 mpg I’d guess). Not that I would turn down a V-10 either, but I wouldn’t *insist* on one.
In the vintages we’re speaking of, they both had the same transmission, so no gains/losses there.
I’m not as familiar with the Chrysler or GM options, so can’t speak to them.
PS: In 1996 and older, you’d have the 351 or 460. Again, for a van, I’d slightly prefer the smaller of those two, but wouldn’t turn down the larger if al else was right. You know how it is with used, sometimes you have to go for the best overall thing, and every detail isn’t exactly what you might have chosen.
When I was full-timing I found another big advantage that full-size vans have over mini-vans: ground clearance. I don’t have 4-wheel drive, but having a few extra inches made it possible to travel on some pretty bad forest roads. It won’t help in sand or mud, but I was certainly able to explore some rocky, rutted backroads that would have ripped a muffler or oil pan off of a mini-van or passenger car.
dont remind me of mini-vans..I ran over a racoon late one nite and
a bone of his punched a hole in my plastic gas tank……stopped at the
next gas station and filled up and made it home without running out
of gas but it was a headache getting it replaced….
chuck
That is one of the weirdest things I have ever heard.
yep it was one huge coon too……..I was lucky I made it home since I was traveling in west texas at 3am where they roll the sidewalks up at 6pm……:)
They have sidewalks in West Texas?
I agree, David. For me ground clearance is way more important than 4-wheel drive.
Good point, David. I explored down a LOT of roads with my 2WD full-sized van. Good clearance.
Another thing on mini vans. We used to run some of them where I worked (alongside large vans). They were used close to capacity (load). We were replacing things like brakes much more frequently, and the gas mileage advantage was diminished because they were working “all out.” With full sized vans you have a better margin for loading, etc. (Although I’m sure many folks are happy in their mini vans too.)
Delightful, both dialogue and pics.
Thanks, Jodee!
My news…I think I have found tenants! Hooray! They want to move in ASAP. So now I guess I need to move back to my friends house for a couple weeks. I want to stay for at least the first 10 days of the next Knife class. But I am so happy I have people!!!
That is all for now. ???⚡️☀️
FANTASTIC, GINGER!!!
Ginger,
BALLOONS ALL AROUND!!!! I know that renters thing has been heavy on your mind and your budget. Having that little monkey off your back is a real godsend I’m sure 🙂
…ASAP, y-yes! Give them the keys quick 😉
Whoo-Hoo!! That is great news, DesertGinger!! 🙂
Yippee!! I hope they turn out to be great, long-term renters!! We had some of those in our landlord years…of course, we always rented it a bit below market too…heh! It was important to us not to have so much turnover!!
Thanks so much for the story Ms. B and Reggie, Corky enjoyed all of the info Ms. B was sharing with Reggie as he needs some help in some of the camping rules and regs.
And for Sue, when doing routine maintenance, oil changes, tire rotations etc from place to place how do you determine where to go? Just turned 5000 (in 4 weeks) started with 2517 on The Gamer Babe (San Francisco Giants fans will understand) and trying to decide, go with a national company or a local mom/pop garage.
I was going to head into the mountains but they’ve got storm warnings so would rather get some stuff done here closer to town than worry about weather issues.
Thanks again Ms. B & Reggie and Sue from Corky and Carlene
Hi, Carlene,
I don’t have any hard and fast rules about choosing shops for maintenance and repairs. I look for honesty and experience. This post includes my thinking when deciding where to have the wheel bearings greased when we were in an unfamiliar location: “Right time, right place, right person.”
Good idea to watch the weather and follow your instincts. Glad you liked the post, Corky!
Let me jump in here please. Sometimes Sue does ask for and gets referrals when she needs repairs. Other travelers that have had repairs in that same area are a good source. I have asked for the best local cafe and from there will ask for a good repair shop. I personally have not had good luck with the so-called expert national chains over my 18 years of full-timing. I had one national chain, known to be *experts* in transmission work, trash…and I DO MEAN TRASH my Turbo Diesel Chevy Suburban. Repeated trips never fixed it and the day their warrenty ended so did their interest in making it right. So I DO look for the local Mom/Pop owned repair shops. That said, I’m sure there ARE good national chains but I have not had good luck finding them to be up to par as a whole. I tend to think it’s that Too-Big-To-Fail thinking that keeps many of them from doing quality work.
Another FYI…
The local Beauty/Barber shops are a great source for finding the best repair shops and stuff that a town has to offer up! Especially in a small town, they will tell you EVERYTHING and not blink an eye at doing so 🙂 Something like, “Do you have an appointment time for Thurs.?” And then ask about the local landscape for whatever you are wanting to know. You would be shocked at how well this works 🙂
Pamela K – You have been a full timer for a good many years! Good for you.
🙂
Yep. My husband and I would never wish to live full-time in a house, condo or an apartment again UNLESS medical reasons forced us to do so. We love the RV lifestyle as our choice. We did find a house several years back and rented it on a one year lease…thought we would like living in that area, etc. Three months into our lease we were mind-numbingly bored! We opted to take a hit on the lease and paided the remainder months up so we could move out and we have never looked back or questioned doing that. Money well-spent to find out how much we missed being free to roam around the country…priceless really 🙂
Sue, you do have a knack for finding good people 🙂
I’m just going to share one thing I’ve done that helps me out when traveling. I’ve usually changed my own oil, so when I started traveling, I continued to do so. That lasted about twice. Reason is, I’d have to get a drain pan (not enough room to carry one all the time), and then try not to “look like I was working on my rig” (‘course that’s not a problem boondocking), and THEN try to get rid of the oil (before it tipped over, etc.). That was so easy back home, but I have found it to be more difficult when traveling – it’s state/area dependent I guess.
My alternative was to take it to a real shop, and/or a quick lube place. I don’t do the latter.
Anyway…. on my previous van, it had come from the original owners using Mobil 1 synthetic (from new). I continued that practice, which gave me a 5,000 mile interval (vs. the old 3,000 I used to do). But then I discovered the amazing “extended mileage” Mobil 1. Hallelujah! This is not the “high mileage” that is touted to be for older cars, but rather it has an extended change interval of 15,000 miles. Oh how handy this has made things when traveling. By 15,000 miles, I’m either ready to go in for some real work (and then a real shop can change my oil), or, as it has worked out, I’m able to plan ahead and change the oil at a friend’s place, or a winter “base” type location.
Anyway, it’s been a great feature for me. Of course to each their own, and figuring out your style is a big part of the fun, I think.
Thanks Pen for the info… and yes locals do tend to know what’s happening around town. Pueblo is big enough to have locals, quite a few fisher people here by the lake… and there have been a few here at the campground and I’d gotten a few names, made some calls and I’m set for Wed morning right as I’m leaving town.
Thanks again everyone!
I wasn’t aware of that extended mileage oil. Interesting. I’ll look for it. I like that idea!
It is sooo handy. I have always been able to find it at Wal-Mart, and sometimes at Autozone. Not at O’Reilly that I’ve seen. It comes in either the big jug or individual quarts (I end up buying both as the big jug is not quite enough).
I do end up topping off a few times between changes, but that’s normal for so many miles. It’s also possible one might want to change the filter sooner (although I see they have Mobil 1 filters now, not sure how long they go). On my rig you can change the filter without having to drain the oil.
Anyway, handy stuff when traveling!
PS: Although, holy cow, I just looked it up on Amazon and they have it for Prime members at a *fantastic* price! (I had looked previously, but at that time it was quite a bit more than when buying locally.) Going to go snag some on Amazon now 🙂
Ha ha, “gift wrap available.” 😀 😀
Too funny, Pen.
WOW! Weather took turn overnight; dipped down & expected to be down for next 10 days. That means all the lawns & gardening slow way down even though the great fruits & veggies continue until frost. Less mowing, watering & weeding. WGS here in town ridiculously high (& includes 35%city tax to cover services) so cooler weather cuts costs as well.
Writing from my stretched out position in recliner. Have heat pad on left hip, big pillow under left knee, taking mini doses of husband’s leftover narcotics from bicycle/pickup collision in Jan. to manage excruciating pain (I know, I know, that’s a no-no). Suspect that some old age malady has attacked. The pain is of the level of leg cramps without spasms & it’s constant. Hip, thigh, knee, calf, shin. Third day of this. Have Medicare wellness check tomorrow so hope to get some help. Don’t have time for this!
Rental rehab progressing. Have about a month before we want to head south. If it’s not rented by then to someone we want, it will sit there til we return. Steadily packing the RV. Taking the advice from full-timers we met at Paranagat, we are packing everything by categories in labeled tubs. It’s taking more time arranging the new rig this year as the configuration is so different from the Casita.
Thanks again for keeping us focused with your posts.
Well, that is weird, Kathy. All of a sudden you have this pain? I hope you share what you find out at the wellness appointment. Sorry you are suffering…
I tried the pack-according-to-category method for the PTV. I’ve also tried pack-according-to-how-often-it’s-used (putting more frequently used in easy reach). Nothing works for me. I end up with a landslide in a short time no matter how I pack. Maybe you’ll do better!
Good luck finding the perfect person to rent…
So sorry to hear of your recent pains! I suffered for years with acute pain, it is never easy to endur, short ot long term. I hope you find the treatable source for your pain soon!
Like Sue, I gave up long ago on both methods of packing. Now I take photos of the tub’s contents from time to time and print them out for attaching to the sides or ends of the tubs. It isn’t fool-proof but it gives me a reasonable measure of what’s inside, lol, before sorting through it all. 🙂 I used to do that with show boxes and hat boxes years ago so it’s a carry-over from that 🙂
Good idea to put a photo on contents on a storage tub. A time-saver, I’ll bet. Thanks.
I don’t know if anyone else is like this, but I seem to get this crazy memory/attachment to the first place I store something in the rig. I mean, I know I’m going to shift things around as I go and evolve, but that drawer I had the can opener in seventeen arrangements ago? It’s still “the can opener drawer” (although now it may have shoelaces in it). Not that I forget where things are all that much, but just the drawer (or whatever)’s name never changes in my mind.
Well, I don’t have that problem so much as simply forgetting where I put things. I buy lens cleaner for my camera, put it somewhere, and now I can’t find it. I just had it! I want to wash the windows and where is the glass cleaner? Is it with the other cleaners? Noooooooo…
You might want to check with Reggie about moving things around on you. Just sayin’…
I’ve learned to ask “where would I look for this” instead of “where should I put it” when deciding where things go. It helps me pick the more likely place.
Don’t know if you’ll see this, Linda, but I like that way of looking at it – I’m going to try that.
Me, too! I decided to have some emergency cash in the house, so I put $1,500 in an envelope with my banking records. Then I decided that hiding spot would be too obvious for a burglar. So I moved it to …
Oh my god, had to laugh out loud at that! Yes! I, too, have that very same problem! My hair-wig box has been used for other stuff forever, but it’s still the wig-box, lol. That sounds so funny but I do take two wigs with me when I travel or to the beach…great for after a swim and or a quick tidy-up for dinner out later.
Sometimes Old Arthur (arthritis) comes to visit with vengence due to weather change!! For me and hubby at least. I got this wonderful stuff from a local health food store in NC that has been such a help to me…I do not take it all the time, only with outbreaks, but it is called FLEX-able ( http://www.amazon.com/Country-Life-FLEX-Able-Advanced-Capsules/dp/B005IP0HAA/ref=sr_1_1?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1442295964&sr=8-1&keywords=FLEX-able )… 2nd main ingredient? Chicken collagen…I wonder sometimes if we always cooked our chickens with skin and bone and then made soup with all that, if our arthritis would be kept at bay better?? Like our kin in the old days did?? Wishing you a speedy recovery and OFF those nasty pain meds with all their side effects!! Sue, tried to link to the Amazon link for you…you may need to change that to a better link…
For a minute there, I go so caught up in enjoying Reggie & Bridget’s blog entry that I actually thought, “How nice for RVSue to get a little rest from the blog!”
Now that is really funny! The line between fantasy and reality is blurring . . .
Ha ha! They are so real, aren’t they?
Hello, everybody!
A favor please…. Please write any further comments under the current post so that everyone is included. Comments posted four (and soon to be five) posts previously are most likely missed by the majority of readers. Thank you. Sue