Thursday, December 3
Midland Long Term Visitor Area, Blythe, California
I get the skinny on why the water spigots are turned off at Miller Park.
Our 14-day, short-visit permit ($40) expired. Yesterday, December 2nd was the last day covered by the permit. The crew and I ride over to the camp host’s site to buy another permit and find no one home. Today we try again.
I sit with the camp host couple at their picnic table.
Bridget and Reggie wait in the Perfect Tow Vehicle. While filling out the stickers and form for another two-week permit (Dec. 2 – Dec. 17), Netta, Jim, and I discuss the water spigot situation at Miller Park. Here are excerpts from that conversation.
“I read in the May 2015 City Council minutes that the water was turned off at Miller Park last year and then it was turned back on because RVers complained.”
“Yeah, we did. We put up a stink and they turned it back on.”
“Why was it turned off in the first place?”
This is what Netta learned last winter . . . .
“Well, some farmer was sneaking into Miller Park during the night and filling a big tank. He’d take out 4,000 gallons at a time. Of course it showed up on the meter and he was caught.”
“Kids would turn on the water and flood the whole parking lot. . . . One time I saw a kid playing in the water and I told him to stop wasting water.”
“The homeless people would sit under the spigots and take a shower with their clothes on.”
“And, of course, you have some residents who pay a water bill and don’t think anyone else should get free water.”
As I’m leaving, Netta is on the phone contacting a person who wrote a successful letter last year on behalf of RVers at Midland LTVA.
The best solution I can come up with is putting locks on the spigots. Every night a city employee would lock the spigots and in the morning turn them back on. It wouldn’t be a perfect fix, but it would prevent middle-of-the-night hauls of thousands of gallons at a time.
As the Perfect Tow Vehicle carries the crew and me to our campsite, the farmer is on my mind.
If he had a crop in the field and his well went dry, and all his work and money to live on and pay bills was about to dry up, crumble, and blow away, I can see where he’d be pretty darn desperate.
I’m reminded how fortunate we are.
The crew and I have a snug home, reliable transportation, enough money for food, clothing, (and water!) and anything else we need. We have each other and we have our health. We can move about freely and choose our yard, changing it whenever we want. We can live in good weather almost all the time. And I don’t have to go to work!
Am I thankful? You betcha’!
I write these thoughts for those of you who are dreaming, working, saving, down-sizing, waiting for health problems to go away, hoping the house will sell, and/or dealing with any other life events that keep you from living as a vagabond, whether full-time or short term.
You may be discouraged. Maybe you think all the preparations (and sacrifices) aren’t worth it.
Well, this full-timer found out it is worth it!
Today’s weather is gorgeous! After a few chilly days with downright cold mornings, the temperature goes into the 70s. Our outdoor room is a “hot pocket” with reflected warmth.
I admit I fall asleep in my lounger. The nap lasts a few delicious minutes until the Reginator finds my peaceful sleep intolerable and jumps on my chest.
Reggie wears his green fleece “jacket” in the morning.
I wonder how to wrap up this post.
The answer comes in the form of a rosy glow next to my laptop — the sunset through the back window of the Best Little Trailer. I grab the camera and rush outside.
Here it is, unadulterated — no glamorizing, no fiddling with the colors in editing — the real deal.
This is what a sunset looks like from southeastern California!
Do you have any suggestions regarding the water spigots at Miller Park?
rvsue
NOTE: Again I remind you to check comments under the previous post. Interesting and informative conversations continued right up to the publishing of this post.
THANK YOU FOR GOING TO AMAZON FROM MY BLOG!
I appreciate every order, whether large or small. Here is a sample of items recently purchased at Amazon by readers:
Adult Wipes
Power Wheels Lil Quad
Travel Gear Pack-It Sac
9-Way Slide Hammer Puller Set
7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker
Wireless Outdoor and Indoor Temperature Station with Time
CLICK LINK TO SHOP AMAZON NOW!
Yippee, closer than before!
Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I am first! I can’t believe it. Vigilance pays off! Thank you, Sue!
Sue, as always, you write a beautifully composed post. You’re a wonderful and truly compassionate person. Reading how you could understand about the desperation of the farmer and then reflecting on your blessings is heartwarming. Thank you.
You’re welcome.
CONGRATULATIONS, RENEE! YOU DID IT!
(You can go to the bathroom now.)
How did you know?! I’m on my way . . .
Hahahahaha….
Love the pics. Safe travels.
Thanks, David!
Oh wow third? Now all the stuff will download to my personal email. I usually like to just read but then have to come back to pick up comments. I follow others including Becky but only stick around for the comments here. Like the chatty even though not too chatty my self. Not quite a loner though but do like my distance.
That’s a good way to put it, Joyce … “do like my distance.” 🙂
Am I #3? Goodness, where IS everyone?!! Beautiful sunset photo!! Thank you again for the blog, Sue……I so look forward to each one!
Oh, 4th. Well, still right up there!!
🙂
#3 or more or less!
🙂
Okay I don’t live out there but have family that does. Why are the car washes still open in southern part of state. Why are the water parks open? Mexico mainly TJ and Baja are not having a water shortage. Just asking what is going on? I know yr location is north of there. But I think they could turn the water on during the day. I doubt boondockers are going to abuse the system.
I don’t have answers to your questions, Sandra. Maybe another reader has something to say about it.
I don’t know about all car washes but I know that some of them use filtered recycled water. 80% of water in California is used by agriculture. If everybody else quit using water completely we would still have a shortage. Hopefully El Nino will bring us lots of rain and snow for the Sierras.
In S. CA we are encouraged to use car washes because they recycle the water and don’t waste it like we would if we washed our cars at home.
Thank yu for the great pictures! Gives me hope. Yes as soon as we sell we are gone like the wind. Fulltime RVing!
You’re welcome, Sandra… That house will sell and you will be free like the wind!
Sue – Your BLT and PTV look so shiny and new! I am still looking for my PTV for my Casita. May be ordering my Casita sooner than expected :0) It would be great to be out there in the spring rather than late summer when my apt. lease is up. It looks like it may be worth it to leave earlier and pay the fee. So, I have just been biding my time and getting rid of excess slowly, now I am feeling some urgency – in a good way.
My vehicle now will not tow, so looking for something with some space that will tow well.
Thank you for your wonderful blog. Love the photos and the info and the comments and the antics of the little pups.
Sounds exciting, Pamelab! Here’s to near-future Casita-ing 🙂
Thank you, Pen. I am really looking forward to my new adventure. A little intimidated by all the new and different things to know about being in a trailer, especially full time. But, reading Sue’s blog has helped so much.
You’re welcome, Pamelab in Houston…..
It will be very difficult to wait through the summer months. Only you can determine what is the best course of action.
I’m posting a few links for the benefit of any reader who may wish to purchase a used van or truck for their Perfect Tow Vehicle. I found these links by searching for “used fleet vans in TX.” The PTV came from such a place in Atlanta.
Comfleet Commercial Trucks
Fleet Trucks and Vans
Fleetserve Truck Sales
Brink Fleet
Thanks for these links Sue, I had forgotten about the origins of your PTV. This is great information!
U.S. Military crew vans and crew trucks/SUVs are also a really good place to find great used vehicles. Many of the local commercial buyers/sellers look for those and go to the military auctions several times a year to replace their own fleets with them. USAF crew vans are great to find. I would suggest to stay away from local delivery company vans…lots of stop-n-go miles on those, not highway miles. I personally would opt for higher highway-mileage rather than lower city-mileage when buying used, unless it is a military base crew van, SUV or street truck.
The PTV came from a used van place that buys up fleets and she has served me well. 🙂
Sue,
Yes, I talked with them before buying my conversion van. He told me most of his vans are crew vans used short term by the military. Your van was used as a mobile insurance office as I remember which was why your van had some special wiring onboard. That was not one of his normal buys. You were super lucky to have found that van fitted out that way…the ultra PTV for full-timing. 🙂
Thank you, Sue, for this information. I appreciate all you do to help your Blogorinos! You are generous with us. Thank you for the encouragement, too.
I am still reading all posts and comments from the beginning of your adventure, although I taking a little break lately. I don’t want to miss anything. Not a single pearl.
Thank you so much for you important and fun blog. I’ll keep you posted.
Pamela
You’re welcome. I’m honored you want to read it all!
Congratulations Pamelab! Even if you do have to wait a little longer it is sooooo worth it!
Thank you, Sealarkesmiles. I am excited.
No 21. Closer than I have been in awhile. Now I will read the complete post, just kind of skimmed it.
🙂
Close to the top—-
🙂
I have been intrigued by the water conservation question since we live in rural central California. The past two years we have limited our watering to one flower bed and our trees very occasionally. Thank goodness our fig trees seem to be thriving on neglect and the grapes did make a crop this year abet a small one.
We have not watered our large park. Our indoor water use is controlled also, we have water saver toilets, low flow shower heads, our washing machine is a Staber, very good cleaning on low water. We water our horse and the chickens, dogs and cats …we don’t have a meter as we have our own well but are very careful not to tax our well, so far so good! I haven’t washed my horse this year, she doesn’t mind at all , lol. Just regular brushing and occasionally sponging her off where her harness fits.
I understand limiting the water use for visitors in areas where water is scarce, it is a shame there are people that don’t think conservation applies to ‘them’. And the trickle down is that honest people are painted with the same brush as the scofflaws.
It would seem a simple thing to make water available at fire stations, where use could be monitored? People are generally there as firefighters work 24/7 and they are a public service.
There has to be a balance. Visitors bring needed revenue to struggling desert communities, we need to share!
When our neighbor’s well failed, they ran a hose to our house, we shared until they had their well repaired. There should be no ‘my water, your water’, there should just be good sense and comservation…. Now let’s see how this gets put into action, lol.
A quick note, my grand daughter had a successful surgery on her scoliosis. Nine hours forty minutes, one of the worse cases the doc had encountered, and the repair was near perfect. On a side note, we found out the bill would have been three hundred eighty thousand dollars, health insurance and Shriners children’s hospital covered it all… Seven weeks in the hospital and the surgery, ICU, now acute care for a few more days…
This is why I contribute to Shriners and have for many years…and will continue to do so!
Lee J in southern Oregon–good news about your granddaughter! And the total cost covered? There are truly angels everywhere!
I’m flabbergasted, Lee! “Nine hours forty minutes”… The wait must have been excruciating for you and the entire family… Bless your granddaughter! I’m so glad the surgery turned out well.
Thank heavens for the insurance and the Shriners!
Excellent overview and point of view regarding water situation…
So glad the surgery went well. What a relief. Hoping and praying for a strong recovery.
Lee J,
So glad the surgery went well for your granddaughter. Those hours must have been grueling for the family, but a great outcome for her. Medical improvements over the years have given so much hope to kids & adults with this disability. As one who has lived with scoliosis for 55 years I applaud her success. I am fortunate in that I am still completely mobile, albeit crooked. I have a steady backache, similar to a toothache, but I go to exercise class 3 time weekly, walk several times a day and do usual chores. My cousin has not been as fortunate.
Prayers being offered for all of you.
Seems to me a ‘solution’ could be easy enough = have to drop off your drivers license with somebody already nearby to get a key — take the key back to get your DL. One of our casino stops had this very arrangement and we used it twice = easy breezy. Takes care of the kid problem and stops the abusers dead in their tracks. Good to learn there is a reasonable backstory to this. Otherwise “dry towns” could take on a whole new meaning!
Hi, Jim,
That would be a great solution if a person were available. I don’t remember seeing a government office near the park.
Friday is my 3rd radiation treatment for the breast cancer. Some burning already, but found Vitamin E eases the burn feeling. Just 17 more treatments to go. Driving hour and 15 minutes each way to Las Cruces but I know that daily 2-1/2 hr drive is adding years to my life. So look forward to your postings and pictures. I like LeeJ’s suggestion of water at the fire stations where it can be observed.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you Sue and everyone else, in case I don’t post for awhile.
Wonderful to hear from you, EmilyO! I didn’t realize you were going for radiation treatments. You have a winning attitude! I remember when my sister Pauline went through the burn of radiation.
I didn’t pick up on the word “daily” the first time I read your comment. That’s a grueling regimen for you, making that drive on consecutive days. I hope there is someone to help you so you can rest during the ride to Las Cruces.
Best wishes for you, Emily! Just think– The treatments will be done come New Year’s!
Emily, hang in there. It will be worth it. My mom is a 24 year breast cancer survivor. We’re celebrating her 95th birthday in February. Perseverance and a good outlook make a huge difference. We will pray for your healing also.
Thank you Reine, Your mom is an inspiration to all of us – and 24 years, that is great and I am looking forward to 20+ years too.
Same to you Emily. I will be holding you in my heart and in my prayers. Best of luck.
Thank you Rick.
I guess the good thing about having to go daily, is you should be done with that part by the winter solstice. An extra reason to celebrate the solstice this year 🙂
We’ll be thinking of you (even if you aren’t posting every time).
Next couple of weeks are good traveling weather, so looking forward to the days getting longer.
I’ll be thinking of you Emily. Take care.
Thank you Marilu. I really appreciated all the thoughts.
Emily, my hubby is on day 14 pf 30 and this is his 3 rd time in radiation ( different body parts). He has found coconut oil, ESP cannabis infused coconut oil to be superior to Vit E in protecting and healing the skin. Best wishes for successful treatment and healing.
Velda, thank you for the advice. I anticipate as the number of treatments increase I might be needing something stronger; so will look into the infused coconut oil – or just coconut oil as my daughter (a 10 yr survivor) suggessted.
Good information in regards to the ESP. My dearest friend in Lincoln CA has 7 more radiation treatments for breast cancer. She told me her boob is fire red burning and if she stood outside she could be a Christmas light!
She is currently using vit e. I will pass the ESP info on in hopes she can find soothing comfort.
Cinandjules, I can give her a great place to source the green medicine. It’s in downtown Sacramemto and called A Therapeutic Alternative. They are on H between 30 th and Alhambra. Great people, very experienced and knowledgable. Her Radiologist can give her a recommend. Mel’s Dr at UCD had no problem writing it, the form was right on the computer and they printed and she signed it. One important point, have her Dr write on her recommend her caregiver or significant others name and birthdate and state that person is her caregiver so if she is not feeling well the caregiver designated can legally go in amd get what she needs. It’s pretty easy to make the infused oils.
Wonderful! I will call her later this afternoon.
Caregiver? Hah She’s one of those “I’m fine” kind of people. Our agreement was for her to call me when the side effects of the treatments became difficult. I would fly out and help her…..well needless to say…my phone hasn’t rang!
Thank you so much for the info.
Best wishes to your husband, Mel.
Thank you for the wishes. If you come this way, I’d love to meet you. I’m about 15 or 20 miles from Lincoln. Hope your friend gets what she needs. The better you treat yourself during treatment, the better you come out the other end of treatment we have found. Example: most having face radiation as my hubby did and now neck, end up on feeding tube, losing a significant amount of body weight, and taking bunches of narcotics with all their side effects. With what we have done, he lost less than 10 lbs during treatment, took no narcotics, and continued his self made liquified diet throughout the 2013 radiation and is on track to do same now. Seems my research is doing what I hoped when implemented! All the best to your friend. And to you two and your fur babies ESP during this Christmas season.
Sounds like you have the upper hand! Good for you….great for Mel.
Yeah I’m not a fan of medication where the side effects are far worse than what the meds are for!
I just got off the phone with her…she has 6 more treatments and never heard of the coconut oil! She’s excited! Thanks again.
Maybe it’s too detailed or just not something you want to post here, but I’m interested in what the self-made liquid diet is. I imagine it’s much better than the typical pre-made ones – sounds like he’s doing super well. Obviously you are a great treatment partner!
He is very careful at monitoring his diet because he is a type 1 diabetic on an insulin pump, so he was adept at measuring by grams calculating carbohydrates and calories and protein. So, when this came up, he simply began up taking that same meal I prepared, doing the measuring then combining it in our Vitamix using chicken broth to reach the right consistency if a warm meal or soy or almond milk and ice if it’s a cold meal- smoothie. It’s much more nutritious than those cans of liquid meal like Boost or Ensure! He adds stuff like salsa or chilis or Italian seasoning to jazz up favors, well except right now he has lost most of his taste, but he just drinks it anyhow to keep his blood sugar even.
Our thoughts are with you!
I will pray for you EmilyO. Hang in there!
Hi, Emily,
Sending you some positive thoughts, prayers, and hugs. Take good care. 🙂
Beautiful sunset!!
It was the “best” one of this season, so far…
The last 3 nights the sunsets have been great from Arizona too!
Of course they happen an hour later than they do for you on that side of the state line. 🙂
Yes, thank goodness the sun keeps track of our time zones 😉 😀
Hi, Rob! Hi, Pen! Hi, Reine! Hi, Rick! Hi, Velda!
I guess I would ask the city manager where is an alternative place to go for a faucet to fill up my tanks. But it is understandable that the city might not be totally sympathetic as is not receiving any funds from the BLM to cover the cost of providing water. Is there financial benefit to them for businesses where campers from BLM lands shop? Yes there is. Is there a potential drain on the city from some of the campers? Yes there is that as well. My brother was a sheriff in a small town and when someone who was poor and traveling through broke down and got stranded the city had to help fund shelter for the individual or family and assist them with food or other types of help. In a small town that can be a real drain on the cities budget. It was often cheaper for them to buy a bus ticket for the strangers to use to get home. So there has to be a plan of action with a presentation of the benefits to the city to get them to change their minds.
Hi, KC,
There are many sides to this issue, many ramifications to consider. Thanks for pointing out some of them for us.
Earlier than yours, of course, we had a sunset with the same colors in it. No mountains, yet pink fog drifting between deep blues of the clouds and water where the swans were doing their ballet…as I watched in awe and gratitude I wished that you would have a beautiful one, and you certainly did! I have no quick fix to offer to the water spigot situation. I so appreciate your empathy for those in need. If the community were to address those needs and find ways to help folks before showering while dressed, playing in a parking lot or theft became options they considered that would be a wonderful solution. I doubt any involved in the behaviors that residents object to do those things by preference. I’ve seen amazing cooperation among good, just not doing well at the time,folks that were offered alternatives in an understanding way.
Thanks for the sunset, weather! 🙂 I’m imagining that sunset with swans on a lake, graceful in pink fog… heavenly!
You’re right… The best solutions to problems fix the underlying causes… I’m not surprised you respond with kindness as the basis for solutions.
Things like pay showers (with vouchers for homeless provided by charities, by individuals?) … And what does a farmer do when his well runs dry while the crops are drying up in the field? What support could he be given through such a crisis?
You help us think deeper on this issue.
A temporary loan of the water needed to get a farmer through the season might give her/ him time to change to more draught resistant strains of whatever crop sells at a profit around there and a drip irrigation system instead of spraying water much of which ends up evaporating -these are the first things that come to mind. Your vouchers and showers are great ideas. It simply does no one any good to let others around them go under .If adults find real solutions that everyone can feel good about their children learn by their example and it becomes a long term fix. I understand peoples impatience when presented with upsetting problems, even their anger, life has difficulties for rich and poor alike.
Very thoughtful . . . .
Every time we go into town I look to see how water is managed for the various fields that are cultivated. It looks like drip irrigation is used as there are several canals running alongside the fields and I haven’t seen any of those big sprayers on wheels. So that’s a good thing…
and a nice note to say n’nite with 🙂
Good morning!
Good morning to you! Rather than solve the earth’s problems I think today instead I’ll have more coffee and just enjoy for a while. I read all of the comments ,how terrific to see new commenters showing up. The first part of making anything better is having hope that it can be. You’ve given hope and helped dreams come true to so many -it’s fun to see new blogorinos popping up like flowers in this lovely garden that all of your work and devotion has made grow! I remember writing what Dasher quoted from our conversation early on about how to enter into friendships. Ours is among my favorite blossoms in life’s bouquet. Thank you the trust it took for you to allow that.
Hmm… What flower shall I be? Not a rose, not a lily of the valley, certainly not a daisy or a peony, iris, or crocus. I think I’m a cactus flower!
How about you?
a morning glory
Perfect for both of you 🙂
I would like to be a pansy. They are always colorful and cheerful.
Gorgeous ‘unaltered’ sunset photo, Sue! Perfectly perfect. Being grateful for what one has and realizing that daily is the way life should be lived, I think. Even on a tight budget I can’t think of any other way to live at this point in my life. Your photo is a prime example of the beauty, if one takes the time to appreciate it, that is out there for all of us to see and enjoy. I am truly blessed. Thank you for your blog that brings the reality to others seeking this lifestyle. Hi Bridget! Hi Reggie!
You’re welcome, Sealarkesmiles . . . A lovely comment. . . . Anyone who can sincerely say “I am truly blessed” knows the secret to happiness. 🙂
hello sue! i have been diligently reading your blog from the beginning and am learning a lot. i have a couple of questions. really more, but i will break them up over the next few weeks.
your recap tabs at the top of the home page say “money 2012” etc. i noticed that they stopped being posted in August of 2014. i am not so interested in the money that you spent, (although i am very impressed with your savings and thriftiness without sacrificing your creature comforts) but i was interested in your monthly camping recaps. i have copied these recaps to a Word document and plan on using them to plot a trip to Wyoming next year. will you be posting these again or are you done with that project?
on my own, i can type up your camping trips from that time forward to the current time. i was thrilled to see that you have been to Mt. Adams!
i know that Spike passed away around that time so maybe you decided to not post the money recaps (just guessing) for a while. i totally understand. you have shared enough information to learn how to do what you do, enjoy it more on less money. this is right in line with my thinking too.
by the way, i never met Spike and yet the way you describe him and his personality make me love him too. when you have time and are ready, i would love to read about Spike’s history in your tab “About RVSue and her crew”.
i love your photos and your sharing of your life with us all. and you have cultivated and nurtured a very loving community around the world. your blog has added a wonderful dimension to my life and i am grateful.
Hi, Bess,
Thank you for the many kind words in your comment, especially about Spike. I don’t know why I haven’t worked on his page. It’s time I did that.
You’re right about the money reports. I just couldn’t keep up with it when I was in the early stages of grief over Spike. And as time passed I lost interest in keeping it going, as far as the detailed money reports. Also I have increased expenses particular to this blog which “muddies the waters” as far as being a model for full-time wannabes to use as a guide.
I do plan to post periodically some information about the cost of full-timing, living as I do.
I hope to catch up the travel recaps, possibly with maps. I worked on that a little bit today.
thanks for the rapid reply. sleep well!
You’re welcome… You, too!
i hope you know that i am not trying to give you a job!
No problem… I need a nudge now and then. I procrastinate a lot.
I think the Solar Battery Trickle Charger that was in the Amazon list in the Dec.1 post may have been part of a big order I placed recently. I’m taking that as a sign that it is time to stop lurking and to step up and tell you what I’ve done since you are the ones who motivated me. Can you keep a secret? Two months ago I purchased a new to me Casita. Although two good friends and my daughters know, my husband has no idea. To be continued.
Special thanks to Sue for cultivating a community of nice, good, genuine people who have written things that made an impression on me.
Sue: Where’s my wonderful life? – Just like her, this made me evaluate what I was doing and what I wanted for the rest of my life. Sitting at home all the time was not it.
Weather: The way I’ve avoided toxic,imbalanced or fruitless attachments is a built in aversion to poison,leaches and boredom. – This helped me deal with what I considered a betrayal by a woman I have known for almost 20 years. It was never a reciprocal relationship and should have distanced myself long before she plotted against me. I realized I was feeling sorry for others and this allowed them to use me. I would be happier to limit my friends and avoid shallow acquaintances. I needed some Blogerinos in my life.
Lee J: They will have something more to say about you than “she read a lot of magazines” – This to encourage someone who was hesitant to go out on her own. So many other women are doing this. I can do this by myself!
Cinandjules: She only wanted 10 years after he was gone. – When her mother was diagnosed and I realized I wanted to live differently than my husband did. He is a home body and I have places I want to see in this wonderful amazing country.
BeckyIO: Her website describing her experience in finding and buying her Casita. – It was after reading this that I went to the Casita Forum classified “just for fun” and found 2 Casitas for sale within 30 minutes of me. Seemed like fate. Two different models from same year. I had to go look and see if I would be confident going out on my own in one.
And last another big thanks to Cinandjules again. Live your dash !
I first heard of ” that little line there in between” in a Garth Brooks country song “Pushing up Daisies” but did not know there was also a poem, The Dash.
It was inspiring. So I named my Casita – The Dash.
Hello, Dasher, and welcome! It’s great to see you appear here!
Congratulations on purchasing your own Best Little Trailer! I wish you many wonderful miles and camps as you live your dash (clever name!).
Thank you for reading my blog. I also thank you for remembering my blog when you shop at Amazon!
Thank you, Sue. I have spent many hours over the last several months going back to read your Blog from the very beginning. A year ago I did not know there were people who lived full time in RVs. I had never heard of boondocking or Blogs. While I will only be a part timer and will stay where there is electricity I have learned so much from you and the other Blogerinos. My goal has been to learn as much as I can so I can do it all myself. Then perhaps Hubby will be less concerned about “all the maintenance”. The first thing I did was to have brakes, bearings, propane system and battery checked out. Good thing as someone over greased and entire brake system had to be replaced. Also had the electric jack switched out for a manual one. I’ve spent hours cleaning and reading manuals and forums where it is parked in a storage lot. My first problem to solve was how to deal with the battery going dead. It was good practice hitching up and driving around for an hour but looking for the solar trickle charger to be a better fix.
Welcome and glad you joined our blogorino family!
Put one foot in front of the other…and soon you’ll be running with the “big dogs”. Your situation is inspiring and I am so excited for you.
Does your Casita have a battery disconnect switch? It shouldn’t be draining the house battery. In our class c we did use the trickle charge with great results.
The dash……a nice reminder of the great times ahead. Enjoy every bit of it!
I also put that name in te hat for my RV… Congrats on the purchase and safe move.
Thank you, Shirlene. I have enjoyed many cups of coffee with you
Your welcome Dasher…. see you on Monday morning.. 🙂
i had a battery problem on my very simple 1955 vintage travel trailer Rainbow. when i bought it, it had a car battery. so i changed it out to a deep cycle 6 and installed a tickle charger.
with the car battery i could go 5 days using the regular lights in the trailer. not LED. when i made the changes, the battery lasted 1 day!
i took it back and they discovered that the ground wire was installed wrong and also they installed a relay switch (not expensive) so that i wouldn’t pull energy from my Subaru battery when the trailer battery got low.
this took a lot of time to figure out (days!), and the shop finally had their most experienced mechanic troubleshoot the problem. it works great now.
i wish you Happy Trails in you new adventure! you can do it. i have a friend whose husband won’t “let” her drive their Casita. she is co-owner and hasn’t parked it or driven it over in 9 years of ownership. i drove my trailer from Canada to Oregon when i bought it and it is a dream to drive. again, you can do it!
Thanks for your encouragement Bess. I’m learning even more through your questions, too. You are a great model for your friend and me.
Hi Cinandjules ! No I do not have a battery disconnect switch but it is a suggested modification on Casita forums. Thanks for endorsing that and the idea of a trickle charge. It is on my ever growing list of things to buy or improve. Just got water filter, surge protector, tire covers, hitch stand, along with the solar charger. So much to learn.
The mod is simple…we had it done for our boat.
i spent about 6 months gathering all the items i needed for my little 12 foot trailer and also getting some mechanical stuff fixed. i thought the list would never end, and frankly after 1 1/2 years it is still unfinished. but i didn’t let that stop me from doing some camping. each time i go out i learn more about what i need and also have pared down some items that i don’t use.
You’re welcome, Dasher. “My goal has been to learn as much as I can so I can do it all myself.” — I believe that is something every person should strive for!
Congratulations, Dasher! I see adventures and discovery in your future! Enjoy! 🙂
Sorry to be so dense, but I cannot figure out what all the rush to be #1 in the comments is about. Is there some prize, or is it just a playful thing? Can someone please explain it to me?
Sue, thank you for your thoughtful and compassionate being.
Hi Rhonda, I can answer by saying it is just a playful thing, but then again some of us here are a little competitive… 🙂 But not me of course! ha!
Thanks so much! That solves the mystery for me!
Hi Sue, I started following you since your first post but have been gone for awhile – health reasons – a pesky little brain injury (smile), but all is well. It has been a long time and you may not remember me, but I am now a fulltime vandweller camped just down the road from you outside Ehrenberg. Nonni and Bentley travel with me (now 10 and 13). I have enjoyed catching up but was sad to read about Spike. I’m so sorry, and I am already in love with Reggie. Thank you again for being one of the inspirations in my life that kept me believing in the dream. Much love from our camp to yours, db&n
Hi, Debra,
Good to hear from you, long-time reader! Thank you for the sweet note. I’m sorry you suffered a brain injury and wish you well.
I’m trying to remember .. . Where did we meet? Was it in Ajo? I admit the name Debra doesn’t spur my memory. I think I remember your dog’s name, Nonni… I really would like to remember who you are.
Hi Sue, I apologize if I indicated that we have had the opportunity to meet in person. I was one of your first followers and was teaching at the time. My plan was to hit the road when I retired and you sent me some very encouraging emails at the time. I had brain surgery not long after your attempt to tour Best Friends in Kanab, and we lost touch after that. You might remember Nonni because she is a Rhodesian Ridgeback. I am outside Ehrenberg right now and go to Blythe quite often. Will be there tomorrow actually. Maybe we’ll run in to one another some day. Thank you again for being such a pioneer example and for your encouragement. I didn’t get here exactly as planned, but I’m here now, loving it and am very grateful. HugZ, db&n
You’re welcome, Debra. No apology necessary. You hold the exalted position of being one of my first blogorinos! It’s good to hear from you.
If I had met you in person I was sure I’d remember you if I tried hard enough. I’ve “talked” with hundreds of people since those days, both here on the blog and along the way, and I can’t always remember people by name. It was bugging me because your name was so familiar. Thanks for clearing that up.
How courageous of you to go through brain surgery and come out on the other side with your dream firmly in your grasp! And look at you now! I’m very happy for you Debra and wish you many miles and smiles in your vagabond life.
Hello,
I’ve never posted here before as I really didn’t have much to say but I’ve been reading for quite a while. I’m about two years from jumping off to full-time myself and lately have been getting discouraged a little. Your entry today talking about waiting to sell a house, down-size, etc. spoke to me directly. Almost everything you listed is an exact reason why I’ve held off for so long. I’m going to have to re-evaluate the situation and see if I can’t pull that date in.
Thank you Ms. Sue!
You’re welcome, Russ, and thank you for coming forward and sharing where you are in the process of reaching for your dream.
Reading your comment is very satisfying for me. When I wrote the part about preparations being worth it, I thought, “If this touches one person and helps them renew their efforts toward their goal, if it encourages them, then it’s good that I write it.”
Thank you, Russ (new blogorino!). I do disagree on one thing you wrote — I’m sure you have much to say of value here!
The water situation is unfortunate. Seems like everyone is being affected by the actions of a few. I hope “they” figure out a solution.
I too notice the extremely glossy exterior of the PTV and BLT.
Your site is awesome, as always. More awesome is the life you are enjoying. Love the sunset photo.
Have another great day.
Thanks, Cinandjules (NY)… About the “extremely glossy exterior”… Just imagine if I waxed it like I should!
Catching up with you CinandJules – looks like you’re really moving. Congratulations!!!!! Hope the home inspections go well.
Thanks… Inspection is this Wed.
Plans at the present moment: We will stay for the summer, close up the house and drive across (ugh) sometime around Sept.
Weird tasks are entering my mind.. I was trying to figure out how to winterize a washing machine…or where we are going to put the liquids.
Does a root cellar freeze? I’m a city girl….I have no idea if that’s a stupid question. During the winter we keep a light bulb on…but if there is no light……????.
We winterize our camp. It only takes about 15 minutes. I know this winter seems a bit milder, but after the last two, I would assume everything would freeze solid – including the root cellar. In our town there were water lines that froze up for the first time ever, and they’re way down deep in the earth. So happy for you and excited. You have close to a year to work out the details.
Ok thanks!
Last year was atrocious! ? Water lines and septics were freezing up here! Not ours but that was the talk of the town!
Water in the desert is kind of an oxymoron…
is it a desert because there is no water,
or is there no water because its a desert?
…water has been diverted to grow crops that should not be growing in a desert in the first place. Once again the hand of man has played a big part in all this…and just now its catching up…they build a dam (because they can) divert water to a desert (because they can) it then filled beyond the brim with water hungry farms, ranches, casinos, and subdivisions…(because there was water where once there was not) then the source water grows lower and lower because they Can Not make rain! Now they are like the Who’s down in Whoville…what shall we do? Give the desert back to the gophers, rattlers and jack rabbits? Well yes actually… Not trying to be funny but if we look back this was bound to happen-too much dependence was placed on being able to move the water from one place to another…but now the source is disappearing.
I had to play the Devil’s advocate…what little water there is has to be conserved I’m for building a “rain water pipeline” instead of the Keystone pipeline it will be another temporary situation but it could help for many generations!
The current water tap on/off? Limit, one gallon per person per day sounds fair to me.
Wow… that took some thought. Good job. 🙂
Of course, everything you write is true. That’s what got us here. Now what can we do?
One gallon per person per day… If two people follow the recommended amount of water to drink per day, that uses up the one gallon. How does an RVer fill their tank before boondocking in the desert for weeks?
We’ve had water shortages for decades on Navajo reservations. All my young life, my parents hauled water or had it hauled in 55 gallon drums. The sheep and horses got watered maybe twice a week unless it rained. I carried this water conservation with me to the city, my yard is brown, no grass, small flower bed with desert hearty flowers and I planted palo verde trees. When I shower, I wet my hair, body, then turn off the water and soap down and scrub, turn water back on and rinse. That farmer taking water is greedy…he/she should stick to what is allotted to him/her monthly. Put a lock on the water spigot and give a key to the camp host or get rid of the water spigot and let people buy water somewhere else.
Water conservation is part of your upbringing and part of your daily life. Lots of folks were raised under the impression that water supply is forever.
To clear things up — The spigot is not in a campground so there is no camp host. I don’t know about an “allotment” system with farmers if a farmer has his own well. I’m willing to “buy water somewhere else.” In order to fill a rig’s tank, one would have to stay in an RV park or campground that has water spigots, which would disrupt those needing to boondock or stay at LTVAs. It’s a complicated situation. That’s for sure!
Thanks, Rita, for sharing your ideas and your water conservation practices.
We are camped near Yuma. Why is there no drip irrigation and other conservation choices for applying water to the fields being used. We are no experts on the subject, for sure. Maybe I will do more research on this subject. I do know that you have to be careful with rain barrels in some areas. There have been lawsuits applied due to the historical ownership of ground and surface water and the reduced availability of surface water due to the use of water barrels. What an interesting world we live in.
Excellent comment, Bill & Ann… You bring up more that needs to be considered . . .
Sue I fear it won’t be that many more years and the water situation in the West is going to drive folks East! The snowbirds will have to stay home and shovel snow and desert will continue to get larger. And yet so many say “What climate change”? Its the times we live in, no fast fix, and possibly no fix at all! Some things are out of man’s hands. I saw the large lakes nearly dry when I was tripping in the west this past fall, it was a shock. Docks standing feet above where the water level should be, homes that used to be lake side for sale, waterfalls barely dripping! Anywho don’t want to use your blog as a soapbox…hope you can find enough water to suit your needs.
Good Morning Sue…well looks like the water situation is a “hot topic”. Many good suggestions here… This blog gets more interesting everyday. I see we have new people jumping in here all the time, that speaks to your especially good hosting. Finishing my coffee, I hope you enjoy yours. Happy walks to the pups!
Hi, Shirlene,
I hope you enjoyed your coffee and expect a fine day ahead!
Isn’t it great that some more readers have come out of lurkdom? How many times have we read that a person doesn’t comment because they have nothing to add, that it’s been said already? If they only knew how encouraging it is for me — and fun for everyone — to see fellow readers appear.
Showing up and saying nothing more than “Hi everybody” adds something and brightens the day!
I so agree, Sue. I mean, as you point out, it’s enjoyable to exchange “good mornings” — and that’s certainly something that has “already been said.” Every day in fact. Nothing new or innovative about it and yet…. it’s a lovely thing to read 🙂
Exactly. 🙂
Hiya Missy, Nice post as usual. I might have a workable plan on the water problem. First put a sign on the water that it is unlocked only during daylight hours, then put a handle on it like you have on water fountains. You know, how on the drinking fountain you have to hold the faucet handle while you drink or it stops? It would be a pain to fill large containers but it would provide a way to stop the guy who turns it on and walks away and lets it run. Have a mellow day and hi Bridget and Reggie.
Hi, Jim,
Did you see the spectacular sunset last night? Of course, being a Zonie, you’ve probably seen a gazillion super sunsets. 🙂
Those faucets would cut down on wasting water. There still is the need for people to fill tanks for their rigs though.
I bought several gallons for household use from the vending machine. If I have to, I’ll pour that water into the BLT’s tank and refill the jugs again at the pay vending machine. It probably would be easier to drive across the river to Ehrenberg. Ugh, the interstate. The water vending machine at the Valero station is the kind that the water comes out of a hose. If they fix the machine, that would work. Ca-Ching! Ca-Ching!
Yes, it’s mellow around here (as long as Reggie gets his way!) Hi to you and Detta from the crew!
I saw last nights display but even though I live here full time I never tire of the splendid sky shows. BTW Don’t forget a couple of years ago I pronounced you a Honorary Zonie. BTW With the weather changes comes the need to check your tire pressure on both the PTV and BLT. On my Chevy Malibu I went from 31 to 23 pounds of air pressure. I just got them all back up to 31. Cold air does that to tires out here with the changes in air temp….
I appreciate the advice, Jim. I’ll check them. Yours truly, Missy Zonie
Tom Brady knows about cold temperatures and air pressure.
Not to worry the Patriots will find another way to tilt the odds their way. It’s Belichick’s forte.
That man bugs me!
Ya think he could at least dress in something other than that old ratty sweatshirt?
Noticed coming in to Blythe from the west that the citrus trees were removed and replaced with date palms. It’s a long term investment as they don’t grow awfully fast – but they do take much less water! Lots of great comments on the issue, I especially like the fire station idea, as long as they don’t have to become water police as well. I’m afraid El Nino will make everyone forget all we’ve learned about conserving water, and just go back to old bad habits once there’s water in the well again. Multiple very green golf courses in the middle of deserts make me crazy.
Hi, Jodee,
Oh, don’t get me started about the desert golf courses… 🙂
The fire station idea makes sense as far as the availability of water and also of personnel to supervise. One big problem I foresee is traffic flow. I haven’t looked at the fire department facility in Blythe. People cannot be lining up with their huge rigs potentially blocking the movement of fire engines and there’s the potential of people being in the way during an emergency.
We buy our water from the fire station in Sanders but we are only allowed so many gallons for household and livestock use. They do monitor whose coming in and filling their tanks and like all little towns they know almost everyone.
I want to retract something I wrote. Someone suggested getting water at the laundromat and I said I’d check into that. Now that I’ve thought about it, that’s not what I want to do. The laundromat has to pay for the water used at their business. For me to drop in, fill up jugs with water, and leave is stealing. Indirectly, yes, but it’s still stealing, although neither I nor the reader intend it as such.
here is another question. could you devote a post to what solutions you have discovered about food, cooking, meal preparations, storage?
the reason i would suggest a separate post is that sometimes if a topic is started at the end of the post and you then you post a new topic the next day, the old topic doesn’t get as many replies. (is that a run-on sentence or what?)
i would love to hear what you know. i want to hear what other RV’s have to say too. lunches and breakfasts are easy to plan. it is mostly the evening meal that i am curious about.
i have discerned from your posts that you don’t do much cooking. my husband wants me to shrink the time that it takes us to pack the food for our trips. we both cook and pack so this isn’t a sexist thing. he would just as soon eat freeze-dried stuff or prepackaged food that just needs re-heating. i prefer cooking and eating fresher food. we take short 5-day trips and i usually cook rice here at home and re-heat it in the trailer.
last trip out i tried his ideas and although the food was okay, i missed the whole operation of chopping, talking, cooking and eating. we rarely stop at restaurants when we travel. thanks sue and everyone for your ideas.
Looking forward to this discussion…I am not much of a cook, but need to learn new tricks for full time RVing.
Hi Shirlene,
You do not have to be a great cook, just have great recipes 🙂 Kitchen tools and timing is the trick!
Cooking…in an RV is different. I tend to use pots that have small handles on each side instead of pots with one longer handle. Size matters. I also find since it takes two hands to carry one I do not simply grab them and head somewhere without thinking about it, again good since it is easy to turn things over in a small kitchen. Like Pen, and others, I tend to use small pots, I like the ones with a pour spout (like those for melting butter) and if they have a strainer that is a huge bonus and will save your grey water tanks from foods that can slip down when pouring over the sink. I tend to like non-stick since it is easy to wipe clean with little water. There is a brand of stainless steel with a longer handle and locking lids that REI carries, I’m sure Amazon does as well (very popular brand but I can’t recall the name right now). They are heavy-duty, well made and last forever. I own several of the 1.0 and 1.5 sizes. Perfect for soups and small stews, mashed potatoes, etc. Of course my Wolfgang Puck Mini Rice Cooker/Steamer (Amazon). I use it most everyday and it is non-stick perfection! Now then, I do use foil loaf pans with PAM spray (throw away) and same for mini muffins or breads…it’s just less mess and easier. EVOO will be your friend…I stopped using Veggie oils years ago because of the burn factor. EVOO doesn’t do that and cleans way easily. Oh, and I find almost any item that is cooked in a broth, cream cheese or mayo based just tastes better than dry rubs except for meat only dishes so I do that at least once a week. I love the Lock-N-Lock brand of food storage containers, they never leak and do not absorb food odors, stack in the fridge super nice too. Another tip, I do have the local butcher grind fresh steak for use as hamburger instead of the packaged ones at the store and it stays fresh longer. Makes all the difference in the world and less grease to clean up. Lastly, Grease (and TP, lol, that’s a whole different topic!) is the worst thing for holding tanks so never pour it down the sink! It will kill a grey tank in no time flat! Always keep a grease can handy and foil liners on hand. You will do fine! Your Class A has a good deal more room than my 19ft Airstream and I have always cooked large in a small space…timing and great kitchen tools is key 🙂
Thank you…such good suggestions/help… 🙂
I use the plastic butter tubs for grease cans. When full, just put them in the fridge, then set them straight up in the trash on garbage day. I do let the grease cool some, so it doesn’t melt the plastic.
Since you say you wouldn’t mind hearing from people in addition to Sue, I’ll say what works for me. It’s actually kind of boring, as basically I don’t do much differently than I did “at home.” To me it has more to do with the way one, as in individual, likes to eat and cook.
There are a couple of caveats though: If you were one to fill a chest freezer at home, well, that’s not likely to work if you are a boondocker. A small tiny freezer, yes. I never had a large freezer so didn’t develop the habit.
The one other thing I do differently is that I have taken to using small pans, such as high quality camping pans (or as good as you can get, anyway, which admittedly is not very high). Reason is that they are easier to wash in my smaller sink, and dry in the smaller drainer. Also, I often just stick a pan (with excess food from something I just made in it) in the refrigerator with the lid on, so again smaller is better (then I can just re-heat and eat out of the pan that time, which saves on dishes and water) (smaller pan makes a fine “dish”).
Okay, well then I guess I have to slightly take back what I said above, since I do do a few things differently. But I still basically eat and cook the same. I guess I was never a “very involved” cook anyway 😀
Funny thing is that I cooked MUCH more when I was on a boat than I ever did at (land) home or in the RV. I think that was for a few reasons: One is that I was double-handing, so there were two of us eating. Two is that there is not much else to do out there, and you are never more than 10′ from the stove anyway (when at sea), and three is that most ingredients are dry, and something like baking bread makes a “fresh” food out of dry ingredients. In the RV, even if I’m boondocking (which is what I usually do), it’s not like I’m ever a month away from groceries, and I have a vehicle to go get them with (the RV). On a boat it was the opposite: Maybe a month from a store, and then only my feet for transport.
Hi, Bess,
One thing I suggest you do is to go to “Dinner Out and the crew’s revenge, plus readers’ recipes” and open up the 209 comments, most of them having to do with cooking while RVing — recipes, cooking techniques, and equipment.
My blog is a story-based blog… the story of the days of rvsue and her crew. I don’t want to turn it into an informational blog, which has an entirely different tone and appeal. Instead, I tell the story of our day and then the topics spin off of that according to the interest it ignites. If I put the topic first, I’m writing a different blog.
There are many blogs which focus on camp cooking. I’ve come across a few and I immediately leave them because cooking doesn’t interest me.
If the blogorinos’ recipes aren’t enough, I found several by doing an internet search “camp cooking.” Also “cooking while RVing” works.
Here are a few I found:
“34 Things You Can Cook On A Camping Trip” –Scroll down for campfire paella, pie iron tacos, dutch oven braised beef and summer vegetables, campfire chicken with roasted brussels sprouts, potatoes, and dill, as well as others.
“Easy RV Cooking” includes how to prepare for the RV trip and a lot of other tips. Scroll down for dinner menus.
Again… If you haven’t read the readers’ recipes at that post I linked above, you may find what you need right there!
Additional thought — Sometimes husbands who have shied away from the kitchen their whole lives can develop an interest in cooking over a campfire. Give hubby a dutch oven, a few tools and the ingredients, and he might want to pass on the freeze-dried stuff!
thanks for those links and for clarifying what your blog’s focus is. i will read up on that stuff and learn a lot. i really appreciate sidewider pen and you for answering my long question.
You’re welcome, Bess. I got a bit off track for your situation. Oh well, I try to write replies that will be of interest to more than the person I’m addressing. 🙂
I just re-read and see that you “travel to and from home.” In that case, you are probably able to do a bunch of home prep, bring pre-made frozen things, use spices from the vast collection at home, etc. So a bit different perhaps.
Good advice, Pen… I missed the “travel to and from home,” too.
doing the pre-frozen meals is a good idea that i didn’t think of. i don’t have a refrig, just an ice cooler that lasts 5 days before refilling the ice. but the frozen meals would work well. thanks!!!!
Thousands of years ago in Iraq and other desert areas that have maintained civilizations for a very long time, people discovered how to tap into the ground water at the foot of snow covered mountains . They dug underground channels called qanats that flow for miles. There are vertical channels every few yards to allow access for someone to lower a bucket or to go down and maintain the channel and clean it of debris….These qanats are still functioning thousands of years later and some say they can be seen from outer space. The main advantage is that there is very little evaporation, the water is cool and the whole thing runs on gravity… Our All American Canal ( I think that is the name in your area ) wastes water as it is above ground and much water evaporates….I get crazy when I see those huge irrigating things on wheels spraying water into the air…Glad to read you are not seeing that now….
This is not a new problem…..I love this discussion. I live in California and am doing all the saving water stuff also…bucket in the shower, dead lawn, handwashing dishes not flushing etc….
Yes, I am a “lurker” from the first day.
Well then Susan, it is about time you came out of lukerdom…you had a very important contribution to the discussion which I found very informative and interesting. I hope you are here ever so more often. Sue will be happy to see you here…first time blogorinos make her smile, and me too… 🙂
Welcome, susan! Very interesting about the qanats. Evaporation is a real concern. Yes, those “wheels” spraying water high into the sunny air drive me nuts too!
Hi, Susan!
A lurker from the first day and now you are here! We’ve been waiting for you! 🙂
Thanks for telling us about the qanats… very interesting. You’re right about the 80-mile canal near Winterhaven, CA. It’s called the All-American Canal.
As for the “irrigating things on wheels”… I wonder if they use that method as a way to dispense liquid fertilizer, pesticides, fungicides, whatever, while watering. I don’t know anything about it.
Now that you’ve moved to blogorino status, come out of lurkdom anytime!
Yes, we do all of the above i.e. don’t flush our pee but every third or fourth visit LOL and I handwash dishes even though I have a dish washer. I might break down and use the dishwasher when I have a crowd over for dinner.
Thanks for the comment about the struggle to achieve escape velocity and make the full-time dream a reality. Sometimes its not easy to sustain the dream. I’ve been taking baby steps for almost two years now. Research is done. Have been downsizing. Dreading going through selling the house. Possessions are such a drag on energy. Anyway, I always enjoy your posts even though I don’t say so enough. Thanks Sue.
You’re welcome, Sandy. I’m glad you like my posts.
If “this” is truly what you want, keep working toward your goal. Sometimes obstacles seem huge. Once the first few steps are made, those obstacles can shrink. I remind myself “Every problem is just a bunch of little problems.” Like selling a house… lots of little steps and eventually it’s sold and you’re on your way! You know this, but maybe it will help hearing it again?
Best wishes…
I have been wanting to down-size for years. You are right about possessions. I made up my mind last January that I wanted to make a big life change. So I decided to sell my house, buy a rv and travel. I found a nice real estate agent, ordered a 5th wheel rv, bought a big truck, hired some estate sale ladies to go through my “junk” and started planning my retirement. I am now happily living in my 5th wheel, the house and “junk” is sold, donated and tossed. I got through the whole ordeal by telling myself over and over “How do you eat an elephant?” One bite at a time. Was it worth it? You betcha!
🙂
I don’t know if this notion would be wildly unpopular but I don’t mind paying $.25 to $.30 a gallon for waster in the desert. Joshua Tree National park charges for water and I think it’s fair.
I typically buy my water from water vending machines for 15-20¢ per gallon. No problem with that at all. I wonder if there is a water vending machine convenient to Midland LTVA? Also, one thing about those is that sometimes they are convenient for jugs but not for built-in tanks.
Again we posted close in time, Pen. I didn’t see your comment until I wrote mine below. 🙂
The closest water vending machine is in Blythe 10 miles away. There’s one at Smart and Final. I saw one at Valero, not operating.
I don’t mind paying either although it bothers me that there are people who don’t need another necessity to put a strain on their wallet. I guess it can’t be avoided.
Remember… It’s very impractical for full-time RVers to fill their water tank by going to a vending machine sitting next to the entrance of the grocery store. If there were a spigot where RVs could maneuver and park and hook up their tank hose and then pay for what they take… that would work for those of us who can pay.
…in some ways we all pay for water unless we have a well in our back yard… both my sisters have homes in Colorado one has a well the other on city water. The problem is the water is so full of minerals and now with the Fracking it infiltrates the underground water! So they can’t drink the water coming out of the water taps! There is a biz in Rifle where they can go with LARGE tanks on the back of their pickups and they go and buy water haul it home…They used to have it delivered but a bit cheaper to haul your own…large Tankers parked in town could help Rv’rs in the desert . An entrepreneur opportunity! Composting toilets may be on the horizon its a shame we use water in this way its way to precious to flush!
Average daily per capita use of water in Blythe is 250 gal. +-. The 2020 goal is to get to 218 gal. per capita. Solutions to the drought are drill more wells and build larger storage tanks.
The county RV park had trouble with its wells and gives out water filters to campers because the water smells. They were trucking in potable water last year. Notably the “park” is grass and green; the boat launch not reliable because of the low river.
Hi, rand,
Good to hear from you again! Interesting info… Thanks for adding to the discussion.
I’ve heard that a well was dug at Midland LTVA but there were problems with red sediment or something like that. The water from the jugs I filled at Miller Park didn’t have a smell and was good — The crew drank it without hesitation. That smell situation may come and go with the time of year maybe?
The average you quote … I assume that include all water usage, including agricultural, business, manufacturing, whatever…
Sue, I just placed an order for a dutch oven thru your website
for my son that has a boy in the cub scouts. they are wanting to start
them cooking over an open fire.
let me know if you get credit for the order. if not, I’ll cancel
and re-order…Im getting good at that…
chuck
Thanks so much, Chuck! I’ll let you know within this reply when I it appears in the Amazon reports. How neat that the cub scouts will learn how to campfire cook! I wish my Brownie club had done that.
LATER….. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Camp Chef DO-10-National Parks 6 Quart Dutch Oven Pre-seasoned Cast Iron with Lift Tool and Lid
interesting that you mention brownie girl scouts…I heard
on the news the other day that some girls were wanting to
join the boy scouts cause they dont get to cook out in brownies.
is the girl scouts like home economics in school? I think they
should be doing the same as the boys….JMHO
chuck
I don’t know what brownies and girl scouts do these days. My troop in the late 50s was pathetic. We stayed indoors and did crafts and housewifey things. I thought we’d be going outdoors learning about animal tracks, making a campfire, what to do when lost in the woods, etc. Instead we sat at tables like at school and made pot holders.
You’re right… These gender-based restrictions are unfair, unnecessary, and stupid.
Too funny but true!
Who would want to be a brownie? I wanted to be a Cub Scout, Boy Scout and traffic guard…you know the ones with the white belt and yellow hat!
Even the brownie uniform was a bit fu fu!
I got my turn at traffic guard in sixth grade. I camped wiTh Girl Scouts from about 3rd grade on, settIng up tents, cooking over fires we built, hiking and pd back packing in the Sierras. Never missed not being a Boy Scout because we did pretty much what they did for tying knots to boating as Mariner Scouts in high school.
How neat!
Hi Velda,
I was a Sea Scout too! Ha, finally got to join the boy scouts (was a co-ed branch of BSA for older kids). Now that was fun. Camp Fire Girls… blech (we never saw a camp fire….only fake beads and crafts indoors).
Yes, that’s how “Camp Fire Girls” was. I was SO disappointed. The boys were out learning cool stuff and working their way up to Eagle Scout and you know what we were doing? Sitting around someone’s dining room table making bracelets out of beads on safety pins. Ugh! I could have figured that out myself if I’d wanted to.
And we wonder why too many mature women are timid.
Ooh, someone bought an Instant Pot 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker! Very nice! I’ve been eyeing that exact item for quite a while, and I’d be interested to know how they like it.
Hi, Kerry On (UT) . . . You may have to rely on Amazon customer reviews… It might have been purchased as a gift.
The posts from the last two days on water conservation have been so interesting. It’s amazing how many different ways people find to deal with these challenges.
I’ve really enjoyed all of the posts from lurkers and new blogorinos. Welcome to you all!
Sue, that sunset picture is so beautiful. Here’s to your desert winter – I love your desert posts. Hey, when are we going to hear about that hobby?
Hi, Applegirl,
Thanks for encouraging words for lurkers to become blogorinos! I love the way “the regulars” appear here every day or almost every day and kickstart the comments section and fire it up again when it begins to lag.
However, I don’t want this place to become like a small club to the exclusion of others and I don’t believe anyone else does either. That would soon become dull. Having a wide range of people comment here with a steady infusion of newcomers will keep this place dynamic and fresh. That’s why I light up whenever I see a new blogorino or one who has been absent. And you, too, of course! 🙂
You won’t hear about my hobby for a long time. I still don’t have all the materials gathered. It’s not going to shake the earth when I do show you…. which may be months from now…
I love reading the comments…so many concerns and suggestions.
Ain’t they great?
Sue, I checked in at the laundromat here in Ehrenberg and it’s $10 to dump and fill with water and its just $1 (yes, one dollar) to fill some water jugs. I got 10 gallons today–1, 5 gallon just and 5, 1 gallon jugs. They also have a shower with free wifi.
If you’re looking for some other reason to come over here, you can always stop at the Fly J, go through the drive-through at the Wendy’s and get a Frosty!!
Lots of us camp for free up here on the plateau above the Flying J. No Ranger enforcement and tons of open space.
Bob
Hi, Bob,
Kind of you to drop in with an invitation and information! I considered the Ehrenberg boondocking area a few weeks back, having heard of it through you, your blog, Sidewinder Pen, and your van-trampers. It sounds popular.
I’m skittish about being recognized by the very distinctive 🙂 PTV with BLT which is why I’m traveling and camping on this side of the river. I like being anonymous and I like having this big section of the desert all to myself (only one other camper and she’s a loner like me!)
I may end up driving over there for water and scooting back across the river. Maybe I’ll change my mind when I see the area you suggest. Thanks and best wishes to you, Bob, for good camps and safe travels always.
Just a note is that I’ve never been to Ehrenberg (not that it’s a big deal, but just mentioning). It does sound friendly though! 🙂 Good tips, Bob.
Oops! I guess you mentioned camping east of Parker… sorry about the mix-up, Pen. That’s what happens when I name-drop! 🙂
Well it was nice of you to think of me 🙂 It was probably when I mentioned “Big Water BLM” which is across the river from Parker and south a ways.
Good morning, Sue,
Thank you for the beautiful sunset photo and encouraging words! I hope you realize how valuable your encouragement is to many of us! 🙂
Hope you have a wonderful day! I plan to make out Christmas cards and create my sisters and nephew’s girlfriend jewelry gifts this weekend. If I get those two tasks accomplished, anything else that that gets done will be gravy! Sending you, Miss Bridget, and the Reginator hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Good morning to you, too, Denise and Gracie pup!
You have a wonderful day, too, as you prepare your Christmas gifts and cards. And thanks for noting the sunset photo and encouragement. 🙂
🙂
Whoever bought the set of 4 cast iron mini cookers…
Since we were talking some cooking, I was wondering who bought the set of 4 cast iron mini cookers? I went to the link and they look like they are really nice and a great RV size. Have you tried them yet, like them? Would love to hear your review of them.
At this time of year many of the items purchased from Amazon that you see here are bought as gifts. That may mean you won’t receive a response. I agree with you — Those little dutch ovens would be fun to prepare, to serve, and to eat out of. 🙂
Shoot I went back 2-3 posts looking for the link. I just have lost it did a search and didn’t find it or at least not what I thought it was
Here they are, Joyce:
Fagor Michelle B. Mini Dutch Ovens with Lid, Lemon Lime
They come in blue also.
Those are cute but that much ?? For 4 one cup pans I have a fortune in my stoves bottom drawer
I hear you. 🙂
Sue,
You’re right about the gifts for this time of year, I didn’t even think of that! Jewish person so most of our gifts are homemade and not costly. We tend to save the larger gifts for Birthdays and such. Of course I can’t speak for everyone of the Jewish faith, that is how most of our households do gift giving. We do lots and lots of foods though…YUM! Food is the universal gift. 🙂
Happy Hannukah, Pamela! Am I right that this is the first of the eight days?
Sue,
Yes, right about it being the first day here in this region of the globe. Some countries started yesterday at sun down. The celebrations go by lunar nights/days. Like New Year’s Eve date/times are different for certain places around the globe on that day.
Pamela…..I have 2 of those small cast iron skillets and
cook everything from eggs to cornbread in them…..
not sure if you need 4 of them since you have to clean them
after each use they will always be ready to use….
if you buy any be sure and get the rubber pot holders
that fit over the handle…they are convenient. Ive burned
my hands more than once using a dish towel to pick one
up by the handle…
BTW, its cheaper to buy them by the ones at $11.76 each…
Lodge LMS3 Miniature Skillet, 3.5-inch
chuck
btw…..once seasoned never use soap to clean them….
here is a cheaper one at $8.98 each
Lodge LMS3 Miniature Skillet, 3.5-inch
chuck
Beautiful photos. Yes, I am waiting impatiently to be full time!! One year from now I will be on my way. Luckily, I do not have to go through the hassle of finding someone to buy my house. The business behind me will be purchasing it in the spring! Prices is set with a verbal commitment. Plan is to leave next fall. SS will start the following March, giving me a small income, too. I am so ready and wish it was now!! I am more of a loner, too, but would love to just say Hi and Thank you sometime. You have been a great source of knowledge and inspiration!
Hi, Linda,
It sounds like you have a clear path ahead on your way to a vagabond life. That’s great! I am very happy for you. Several readers over the past few years have agonized while waiting for the house to sell or other obstacles to be resolved. I was fortunate, too, to have a buyer waiting for the nod from me.
You wrote that you “would love to say Hi and Thank you sometime.” The best way to do that is right here, sharing something with all of us. Your comments about your transition from home to RV can encourage other wannabes. And I take every kind comment as a thank you for my blog. 🙂
Do us a favor please? When you sign in, could you put the 2-letter abbreviation for your state with your name or some other identifier of your choice? Several Lindas comment here and I want to remember you!
I figure free water is nice but it’s not like I’m somehow entitled to it. If everyone else has to pay, why shouldn’t I?
Good point, Al.
That is a great sunset photo,, Piper and myself was out for a walk and saw that sunset from up here,, I stopped long enough to applauded it by clapping my hands and saying “encore”,, and kept watching it as we walked,,, have a great weekend down there near Yuma and hug them cute pups of yours for us,,, rusty
Sunset walks are great, aren’t they. You and Piper have a wonderful weekend, too!
All this talk about water access is getting me to thinking of getting a different TT with a bigger fresh water tank. I have a 10 gal tank now. I’ve been looking at other TT’s for that reason and I’d like a bed to not have to make up from a table, also. It’s a 15 ft. trailer.
Afterall, this is what I’ll be living in for a very long time, so I want to be comfortable, but not have a huge rv, either, maybe just a few feet longer. I’m very good at conserving water but I don’t want to worry that I’ll need to get water when I want to stay put for a while.
I’m glad I have this blog to rely on to help me make big decisions. Definitely, lots of useful info. Thanks, Sue and blogorinos.
Hi, Cheryl O.,
I’m glad you find my blog helpful.
About water tanks… One thing I discovered soon after taking up residence inside the BLT is that I don’t want to drink water out of the fresh water tank (or cook with it) or give it to the crew. From that point I’ve used gallon jugs to supplement the fresh water tank, using the tank water primarily for toilet flushing and minor cleaning. Of course you need a place for the gallon jugs (hence the value of the PTV).
Anyway…. I say all this to point out that the perfect-for-you rig need not be turned down because of fresh water tank size. Just something to consider…
Why don’t you want to use the freshwater tank as potable water?
Because I don’t want to be required to keep it in a condition that delivers water perfectly safe and good-tasting. When I drink water I don’t want to wonder if it’s going to give me the runs.
On the other hand (not to be “contrary” but just to give another perspective), I drank out of polyethylene water tanks for years on a boat (in the tropics much of the time, where things grow the minute you turn your back!). (Most RV water tanks will be made out of the same material.)
We bought them new (replacing some older/smaller tanks), sanitized them as recommended, and then used the recommended amount of bleach from time to time when filling (there is a published amount per gallon – it is drops).
Even better is if the tanks have a clean-out port that you can get your hand in to scrub them after some years, but we never had to (a cleanout can be added).
I just wanted to say that – if one wants to (that’s the key), it’s possible to drink and cook from a poly tank.
There is one weak point on RV (and many boat) tanks, and that is the vent. It is often open to the atmosphere and can therefore “suck” in pollutants every time you run water. I prefer to locate it inside, or at least to put some filter medium over it.
Anyway, to each their own and I know your system works well (because I’m currently using it too! Changing the water tank design and haven’t bought a new one yet). Not a thing wrong with jugs, either 🙂
I’ve only used water from the fresh water tank for washing dishes, cleaning and bathroom activity. I don’t drink it either.
Just seems more than 10 gal is needed for those things, if I didn’t want to move my BLT much while boondocking.
Thanks for everybody’s input.
We did the same. Bottled water for drinking…same for the fur kids! Can you imagine! ?
Good overview, Pen. Another thing that keeps me from drinking from the tank. It’s not a closed system. By that I mean, in order to put water in, I have to open up the cap and stick a hose in it. Which means the hose has to be bacteria-free. And how long does the water sit before I drink it? I don’t want the uncertainty.
I hear you. And it’s not that hard to have jugs (especially when you have a PTV to store them in 😀 :D)
There’s always plenty of tasks to use tank water for, and often in a small trailer the tank is not that large anyway.
That is why we have a Berkey water filter in two sizes. We keep the small, Travel Berkey, stainless steel with two filters set up to use in our RV. The big unit we use at home because we simply like the taste of the water better than city water. Any water we consume in food or drink or brushing teeth or making coffee or tea in the RV goes first through the Berkey. That way we are not carrying bottled water in plastic bottles which when boondocking we have to store until we find a recycle. Or refill a bunch of jugs. We find places to refill the tank and use from there. Our Berkeys have paid for themselves because we are still using our first set of filters ( they are good for thousands of gallons of water, and no longer buying bottled water.
We have been camping since 1960. Like you we don’t use the tank water for cooking drinking etc. carry the drinking water. Tenting we washed kids by swimming in the river. Soap is over rated. lol backlog pick up it station wagon in the day. Then a ratty old fifth wheel and then 4 Mtrhms. Grandson drinks fruit juice in some great 1/2 gal containers. We recycle um ourselves. Lol
One of your best blogs yet…..it inspired a wonderful discussion of water usage. It seems like it is becoming increasingly difficult to get water and dump tanks. We went to Salida Colorado to visit family this summer. It used to be camper friendly and have free water at the Chamber of Commerce…last year they changed that, and the free water and dump was at the water treatment plant….you had to call them and get an access code to the automatic gate…. but this year, the freebies are gone and you have to pay at an automated dump and water fill station outside the forest service office….We swiped our credit card, and it never released the lock!!! very frustrating….
As we don’t have smartphones and computer access it is getting very difficult to find places to fill. Lot of the FS campgrounds that used to provide water from wells capped the wells, so they don’t have to test the water. Wiley’s well had water….but you saw what the sign said!
Hugs to you and your crew!
Hi, cc and canine,
It’s always fun (well, usually) to see what kind of discussions will result from a post. This water conservation topic has taken off! I’m happy for your contribution… very interesting… and that credit card experience would be maddening!
“one of your best blogs yet” — Thank you for that! 🙂
i used your link , Sue, to read the post of January 18, 2014. Wow, that topic of food while RVing got a lot of responses. i recommend it to anyone reading this blog. thank you.
i also learned a lot about cooking equipment and made a list of items to include in my trailer. i learned to cook over the fire as a child and still enjoy the excitement of opening the tin foil or dutch oven to see the cooked result. it makes me feel connected to the long line of humans who came before us as they cooked their meals over the fire all over the world.
the theme for me is simplify wherever i can in my life. i really enjoyed your sunset photo!!!
Thanks for the feedback on the recipe/cooking equipment comments. I’m pleased you found them helpful. Also thanks re the sunset photo. Sunsets are the easiest subject to photograph for a WOW factor. 🙂
OK, I’ve been reading more about the comments regarding both water refills and trash removal. After searching the web for local news stories in the areas affected I was surprised to find some interesting info. While the news does NOT make any connection between the lack of Water and Trash/Dumping useage for RVing, it does seem many of those towns are having trouble controlling *random mobile gang activity* in their areas. The use of controlling both Water and Trash/Dumping has always been a highly effective way of *crowd control*. If you recall, it was Water and Trash/Dumping that was used to control the 99% sit-in locations. It does beg to wonder if the recent drought was an easy way to turn off the Water and Trash/Dumping for off-season RVers and for local crime control. After all, if it were merely the state’s water codes, then it would not be *on-again off-again* so easily per the laws. Just a thought to ponder. I did read that Blythe was having some of those issues and trying to find ways to curtail them. This is not to say that this is politically driven, however, it may be *crime control* driven and *homelessness* driven especially when many local towns are cutting back on police services (budget cuts).
…add to the mix those locations where Water used to be free and is now *for cost* it just might be a *patterned effort*.
About the Water…
Since the BLM and SF lands are federal public lands, I thought that the town’s local FEMA Plans (federal program) should have certain Water Areas already showing on the FEMA Maps for such needs. Maybe applying some local pressure to open the FEMA locations for Water might be one thought since water is a base need. Every town, large or small MUST have at the ready a FEMA map plan. Someone needs to go check it out and see the locations on it. Armed with that info, call on *the-powers-that-be* to open those locations for water needs. Chances are they would rather re-open the local water sites rather than all the red-tape called for with the FEMA Maps. It’s worth a try anyway. 🙂
That’s a task for someone else to take on. Not me.
Sue
LOL, send Reggie-Man in there…
He’d have them turning on the water spigots in a quick Flash.
One look at that cute face and who could say NO to him?!
Hello,
I am new to your site, and enjoying your posts. My hopes are to be a full-timer in the next few years. I am not of retirement age yet so I am looking of ways to earn income on the go. I was wondering if you could give me some direction on how to earn income through Amazon? Thanks for any insight! And enjoy your travels 🙂
Hi, Tammy! Welcome to my blog!
One can earn income by becoming an Amazon Affiliate. (Use that term to google and learn more.) Amazon pays a commission on items purchased by customers originating at your blog. In order to make more than a few dollars a month, one has to build a very popular blog and frequently add new and original content. I would never suggest that a person adopt the full-time vagabond lifestyle with any dependence upon Amazon earnings.
Having said that, once you have a loyal readership, the Amazon Affiliate program is excellent. It is easy to set up and manage. The hard part is developing a blog that has sufficient traffic to generate the commissions and continually producing content that keeps the traffic coming back.
If you’ve done any reading about full-timing, no doubt you are aware of workkamping and also working at an Amazon facility for a few months during peak season.
Best wishes to you, Tammy, as you envision, plan, and prepare for retirement!
Good morning Sue!
Nice blog entry, such a stir, and such varied and provocative comments regarding climate change. I kept thinking of this Indigo Girls song “..hole in my sky,
our shrinking water supply,
before my well runs dry’
I’m goin round, round, round the bend…
Fill er up again.
One tank gone and another on the line…
what’s this trip gonna cost me this time
the devil I know’s starting to look awfully kind
but the slow road’s an old friend
fill ‘er up again.
Good morning, Chey . . . Perfect song for this post!
hi Sue, good morning! in you comment to Tammy last night, you mentioned working at an Amazon facility during peak seasons. could you give me a brief explanation please? just curious, not really interested in working. Barry and I have thought of being a worker (not a host) for the Forest Service in exchange for free camping but are reluctant to be tied down to one spot for too long. thanks.
Hi, Bess… I have to make this quick because Reggie has run out of patience for his morning walk.
To learn about working at Amazon facilities, I suggest you read Jimbo’s Journeys. This link takes you to a post about him going to orientation for a stint at the Amazon facility in Fernley, NV.
LATER>>>> One of the blogorinos is presently working at an Amazon facility in Texas, I believe. I can’t recall her name right now. Maybe she will see this and give you an idea what it is like. If not, she may mention it in a comment under an upcoming post.
I know what you mean about being tied down to one spot. That’s one reason workamping doesn’t appeal to me. And there’s the people part of it, too.
danka
Here’s a link to Becky’s blog..she is currently working at Amazon for the holidays and has worked for them at other locations prior years: http://www.interstellarorchard.com/
About working short term gigs on the road. A season maybe would be fine. Or several short term work gigs in one state. But I would not want to file my taxes each year having worked in several states with all their filing regs. With the newest Supreme Court rulings, many tradesmen have sought to limit their own traveling because of the multi-state filings issues. Just something more to consider. But, if need be, there are a number of temp companies who have short temp assignments geared toward seniors too. I have signed up in the past for short assignments…light stuff…putting labels on CD at a CD Music factory ( I loved doing it and it was a fun crew to be on). I also did some quality control for 3M surgical tape checking the rolls to make sure they were in compliance, again fun to do and easy as pie. Those only paid $10.00 per hour but that was a great way to have extra money for nice private campgrounds with hook-ups when needed. I had no problem finding those kind of gigs too. I was glad to do a week or two of those jobs to have a nice full hook-up site with electric in the dead of winter 🙂 If it is a factory or large warehouse sometimes you can dry dock if you arrange it first. I never did that but one gal who had a walking disability did. It was a godsend for her and she worked all winter on the medical tape assignment. I missed her when I headed out to other places to adventure to. We all took breaks at the same time and got to know our crewmates pretty well. It was even fun to be up early and pack my lunch for the day. It always seemed that cookies or those little pies took on a whole new *wonderfulness* during those 15-20 minute breaks. 🙂 So it can be good to do some temp work on the road, it just takes planing and using a national company so you aren’t always *new* since your resume’ goes with you that way. Also, asking your Crew Boss for a letter (on their company letterhead and signed with their title) to take with you when leaving is a *sure way* of getting another great gig somewhere down the road if you need it. 🙂