Monday, May 20, at home in Arizona
With all the wild and treacherous weather experienced by several readers across the U.S., let’s start off with something sunny, bright, and calm.
Yellow poppies and blue lupine spilling across a yard to the street
As a relatively new resident of southeastern Arizona, I’m fascinated with the way my neighbors create their own versions of paradise. I’m talking mainly about their yards.
One day a few weeks ago I take a different route into town and come upon this profusion of blooms in the yard of a neighbor up the street. (Difficulty moving photos from my old computer to the new one caused a delay in posting these pics.)
Slowing the Perfect Tow Vehicle . . . .
I notice an elderly lady coming down the porch steps of her modest mobile home. Her home is like a boat riding rolling waves of yellow and blue.
“Hello!” I call from my seat in the PTV. “Your yard is absolutely gorgeous! I’ve never seen anything like this!”
Yellow poppies and blue lupine all around her house
A conversation ensues.
“How did you create this?” I ask admiringly.
She responds, “Nature did it!”
I introduce myself and explain I bought the stucco house up the street about a year ago. She tells me she came here in the late 90s with her husband.
“He’s since passed. I decided to stay here because I love the neighborhood.”
On the way into town . . . .
That woman is proof you don’t need a lot of money to be surrounded by beauty.
~ ~ ~
This is Arizona!
From some of the comments that appeared in response to my question about whether to sell the Best Little Trailer, it seems there are readers who imagine the crew and I are living in the low elevation, hottest areas of the state. Not so! Southeastern Arizona is predominantly higher elevation and thus cooler than places like Yuma or Ajo.
To tell the truth . . .
I’m somewhat surprised by the cool weather at our house.
Reggie and Roger were chest-high in snow!
Not only did I not expect all the snow of last winter, I never thought we’d have a day in late May with a high of only 62 degrees. A chill wind is blowing today, after a morning with rain. The sky is overcast.
One thing that is very Arizona: Even on an overcast day, it doesn’t turn dark and dreary. I like that. Also sunny days return quickly. In a week, temperatures will be in the high 80s again.
Wherever you are, I hope you have calm, sunny days, too.
Oh, dear . . . . As I’m typing the above, a comment comes in from a faithful reader informing me of a freeze warning for the morning.
And my petunias just recently became luxuriant and the stubborn Mexican squash transplants finally got over their sulk!
“If you don’t quit sulking, I’m not going to water you any more!”
~ ~ ~
“You did it, Roger! You did it!”
A bigger hassock with a small rug on top did the trick!
Roger jumps up onto the bed with no hesitation or fear. He just didn’t like that dark brown hassock at all!
This wheeled hassock from the thrift store was $3. It’s handy for putting on shoes. The green, flowered rug, in new condition, was $15.
One of these days I might paint that brown dresser. It’s the only dark thing in the room. For now, a runner on top ($1) lightens it up a bit.
Roger is up and down off the bed several times every day. Reggie, too.
~ ~ ~
About thrifting . . . .
I have a new mission when I go to the thrift store: to find art by Arizona artists. This new quest began when I picked up a numbered and signed watercolor print by W.T. Zivic.
“Waiting for Juan” by W.T. Zivic ($10 for framed print) 8″ x 11″
The color in the photo isn’t quite right, but you get the idea. It’s nicely matted and framed and hangs near the back door entrance.
The interior of our house evolves.
Coming in the house from the back yard, through the patio sliding door, the décor is western. As you walk through the house to the other end, the décor changes, ending with the romantic traditional you see in the bedroom pics.
These two watercolor prints are by another Tucson watercolorist, Jerry Becker.
“Abandoned Adobe” by Jerry Becker (5″ x 7″)
“Taos Pueblo” by Jerry Becker (5″x 7″)
It pained me to see these prints in a cardboard box along with old, dusty, crappy pictures and dilapidated frames. The price for each print, matted and framed? One dollar.
They are worth way more than that to me. Sometimes I’ll walk by and then step back to enjoy a moment in the desert.
~ ~ ~
I cook with the griddle every day.
Turkey sausage, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, French green beans, Brussels sprouts, and squash grilled in olive oil with garlic powder.
~ ~ ~
For those who don’t read comments . . .
I’ve decided that The Best Little Trailer and Perfect Tow Vehicle will stay with us for a while longer. I’m still playing with the idea of fixing the PTV for camping.
I could get a metal bed frame down at the thrift store . . . . Find someone to remove the bench seat . . . . Might be kind of fun to take spontaneous trips, discover why folks love van camping.
“Whattayathink, little boondockers? Wanna’ give up that big bed to go camping?”
rvsue
P.S. Hassock or ottoman? Which is it? — Sue
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~ ~ ~
Hi Sue…I’m still here
I’m happy you are, chuck! CONGRATULATIONS! FIRST TODAY!
Second today?
Yes! Hi, Norman! Hope all is well with you these days!
Hi Sue,
Are you getting rain in Arizona? Raining more than usual in San Diego.
We got rain this morning. It wasn’t in the local forecast. I was in WalMart and the cashier asks, “Do you want this in a bag?” I said, “No, it’ll be fine like that.”
Then she informs me, “It’s raining out, you know.” “What? I didn’t know that.”
“Raining more than usual in San Diego.” Raining in San Diego is unusual. Ha!
Hi, Sue,
We made it through AZ and had wonderful weather during our time at Lake Powell. We’re in Moab now and it’s yucky! Hope you continue to camp because I love the places you find and the pictures you share.
LOVE the watercolors!
Oh, Joe, Lake Powell!! How nice for you! Did you stay at Lone Rock? I noticed someone looked at my Lone Rock pics. 🙂
Hmm… Moab is “yucky.” Weather or crowded?
Great hearing from you. I sorta’ got envious there for a moment…
Sue,
Looked at your pictures but we camped at Wahweap Campground. Made reservations almost a year ago. Moab is wonderful and we loved hiking through Canyonlands NP. Weather today is yucky.
Okay, got it. I thought it was probably the weather. Hiking Canyonlands, wow! What an incredible place that is!
Hi, Sue — I just want to say how much I enjoy your posts as you continue to set up your home, especially hearing about your thrifting (and thrifty) finds! You’ve got a good eye for spotting the right item and it’s fun to see your home shaping up.
As you consider using the PTV for an impromptu camper, you might look into a couple of Facebook groups for “minivan camping” — clearly the PTV has more room than a minivan, but a number of folks who camp in their minivans use them for their “daily driver” the rest of the time, so there’s often some great ideas for a camping set-up that can be installed (or un-installed) quite quickly. It might give you some additional food for thought!
And speaking of food, your griddle meal looks very tasty! 😉
–arden–
Thanks for the suggestion, Arden. I’ll look for those minivan folks.
Yeah, I’m loving my griddle. (I think I said that already.) I like that I can make nutritious meals without a lot of unnecessary calories. Who knew that Brussels sprouts would taste divine off a griddle? At WalMart today I bought two more packages…
Thanks also for the kind remark about how the house is shaping up with my thrift store finds. It really is a fun process.
Hope you are enjoying a wonderful Utah spring!
I want to get a bridle like yours Sue. I know u posted it in the past. When u get a chance can u re post please! Tnx!
Roger and Reggie are adorable. I look forward to seeing them in your stories. Sooo sweet!
What is the town in Arizona u live in? Have you found other places you like?
I am looking at places, I live in California and it is chasing everyone away!
Thanks for your stories. Look forward to them all!
Pam
You’re welcome, Pam. I’m pleased you look forward to my stories.
A bridle? What are you talking about? I don’t have a bridle or a horse to wear it.
The location of my home is not something I want to talk about. You’ve read my blog for a long time and you don’t know that?
I say ottoman! And cheers to Roger for conquering the bed jump 😊
Haha! Okay, this could get interesting. In Massachusetts it’s ottoman.
Roger was so happy the first time he jumped from floor to hassock, er, ottoman, to bed. He hopped around on the bed with joy!
Ottoman in South Carolina too… bravo to Roger.
I say ottoman as well, but I have been transplanted a few times, Ohio, Georgia, TN.
Something about the “Abandoned Adobe” picture calls to me. That’s a great find! Your house in general looks nice to me. Yay, Roger!
The weather here? As usual, it varies hour by hour. We had a couple of very nice summer days over the weekend. It’s not summer yet, but oh well. Today we’re back to about late April weather.
Saturday was my birthday, and I made the most of it on that bike I mentioned below the last post. The great big redeeming feature of living here, for me, is access to the Ohio to Erie Trail, a cross-state bicycle route. The part of it in my area is done but not too busy so far. I gave myself the gift of time in nature, about ten miles with a nice rest stop in the middle.
Belated happy birthday wishes, Calvin. Someone very special to me was also born on the 18th of May. 🙂
I’m glad you treated yourself to time in nature with your new bike. I’m going to use your recommendation. By the time I made it to the end of this post I was too weary to add anything other than the standard stuff.
I never heard of the Ohio to Erie Trail. I understand that abandoned rail lines are sometimes turned into bike or hike trails. I don’t know if this is the case with the Ohio to Erie.
Your weather should settle down soon. Gosh, it’s almost June….
I’m pleased with your reaction to one of the art pieces.
Our weather doesn’t settle down. Columbus seems to be the crossroads of all fronts sometimes. We enjoy what we can and cope with the rest.
The Ohio to Erie Trail is indeed a rail trail. (In my local case, a right-of-way trail beside a working railroad.) It’s made up mostly of local trails joined together, and if everything works out, parts of it will be part of the Great American Rail Trail. I hope I have the name right, but you get the idea.
As I may have pointed out, I ride mostly for utilitarian reasons–errands and like that. However, the chance to travel into quiet natural settings adds great value to cycling for me.
Happy Birthday, Columbus Calvin! 🎂
Sounds like you had an enjoyable day! 🙂
Thanks! Yeah, it’s very nice to have sweet weather on my birthday.
Sue,
this post was certainly worth the wait. I love the paintings – they are perfect. And the sunset
at the beginning of the post is so restful. Congratulations to Master Roger on his “graduation” to
jumping onto the bed. I have a collection of comforters and have 2-3 that I use to cover my bed so the
kittens can take naps on it without getting tracked in dirt on my bed linen. I noticed they prefer
the pink floral comforter to the green Hawaiian leafy comforter. Also noticed they don’t like when I get
up in the mornings and don’t fix my hair and put on makeup right away. They are so funny.
So I can easily see Roger preferring one color ottoman over the other.
The weather here in GA’s swampland (most of GA) is beginning to cool off for the evening.
However, the humidity is not dropping at all. I’m taking a sweat break from trying to get the
truck ready to load in the morning for my 2 month trip up the east coast then out west. I’m
planning to leave about 2AM Wed if all goes well. but it’s just so hot and humid, making it so
miserable to work. It will be cool and lovely once I’m on the other side of my fence and the gate
is locked then on the road northward.
Once I turn westward, I plan to have your blog on “speed dial” along with NOAA emergency weather
info. One year, when my daughter was about 1 year old, I drove us from Portland, OR to Sarasota, FL
and back again. On the trip out, we had to hide under a highway overpass in Kentucky so we wouldn’t sustain
horrid damage by hailstones that were the size of golfballs and make sounds like gunshots when they
hit. On the trip back home, we got up at 5AM in New Orleans to begin that day’s drive back. As soon as
we crossed that really long Pontchatrain (sp?) Bridge, there was always a tornado in sight at all times.
As least during the daylight. We stopped each night at motels and first thing was to check the weather
for the next day. Tornadoes followed us all the way north til we turned west at the eastern border
of South Dakota. Scary stuff. That was before internet was so prevalent and no GPS, etc
to help. Just good old big sized Walmart Atlases. So, will be better prepared this trip to
dip and dodge scary weather and the like.
The post was perfect as usual and a total enjoyment to both read and lose one’s self in
staring at the restful photos and photos of paintings. Keep up the excellent “thrifting”.
The house is truly a home and quite beautiful. You’ve done such a marvelous job with
furnishing and decorating to make a place for you and the boys that is just so comfortble
that it is difficult to leave. However, if you scratch that “itch” that is “desire to go camping”,
it doesn’t mean you are moving away but that you can have so much fun camping and travelling
for however long or short a trip then have a truly blissful haven to return to.
Prayers for the petunias in the cold weather.
Anne
Safe travels, Anne! I hope you will be able to check in from time to time to share your adventure! 🙂
Hi, Anne,
You’re still in that humidity! Your lack of ambition/energy is understandable. Don’t give up! The road awaits! 🙂
You might be on to something about color influencing our four legged pals. It didn’t take Roger long at all to try jumping up on the bigger, lighter colored ottoman. I sat on it, Reggie jumped into my lap, and while I was loving on Reggie, Roger joined us. The rest is history, as they say. 🙂
Gosh, you went through a lot of scary weather! You’ve “paid your dues,” may it be clear and calm for you on this next journey.
Thank you for the compliment on the house. I never thought I would love a place as much as I love it here.
Ditto on what Denise wrote…. Do keep in touch when you can.
This comment by Denise appeared under the previous post in response to my message of concern for her. I move it here for more to read what she says. — Sue
Hi, Sue,
Thank you for missing me and your concern, love, and hugs. xo So sorry for the worry my absence caused. I thought I had popped in on this post, but cannot find my comment, so I might be thinking about the previous week’s post.
Been a bit stressed. I have been dealing with some ongoing, escalating health issues for the past 4 years. Found out that I will need surgery next month and will be out of work for quite a while. I have been busy trying to get all my ducks in a row. One of my sisters will be with me and will be babysitting (spoiling) Gracie pup. I have faith that everything else will get done and fall into place.
Changing gears….I saw my first lightning bug last night! Summer is almost here!
My little peanuts, my great niece and nephew celebrated their 1st birthday this month! Seems just like a couple months ago that they were in the NICU. I sent my sister and BIL my iPad mini so I can FaceTime with the twins. Not quite the same as being there, but it is the next best thing. Baby boy tries to reach for me through the iPad and baby girl thinks it is hilarious to press a button plot to make my picture small on the screen. They are so adorable!
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! I really like how your bedroom has turned out – a comfortable, peaceful oasis. Glad that Roger is now using the hassock to climb into bed. I could almost smell your lovely roses! I have red double KnockOut roses planted in front of my home. The soft rose scent wafts on each passing breeze…heavenly!
Savings alert:
If anyone needs to replace/upgrade their cell phone, Walmart has IPhone 6S 32GB for $149.99. They are unlocked, but work on the StraightTalk plan. ST uses Verizon’s network. Unlimited plans (voice/text/data) start @ $35/mo. I finally was able to upgrade from my “dumb” slider phone. I signed up for the $45/mo plan, which is less than I was paying Verizon wireless for voice and text (plus all the taxes, surcharges, and fees.). Sometimes breaking up is easy to do!
Hi, Denise,
I was sorry to learn that you need to have surgery. It is stressful to have your life disrupted by a hospital stay and recuperation period. I thank God you have a sister to take care of Gracie and you, too.
I agree — It hardly seems a year since the peanuts arrived. Clever of you to arrange for FaceTime. 🙂
Red double KnockOut roses… I bet your home is lovely inside and out.
Thanks for sharing the information about the iPhone at WalMart and the StraightTalk plan.
Hi Denise, sorry to hear your are going to have to have surgery, please let us know how everything goes, I will be praying for you.
I had to take out my roses as they had become diseased. I planted a Flowering Chinese Fringe. I was hoping it would bloom, but I guess the transplant threw off its flowering schedule.
Thank you, Barbara. The surgery scheduled for late next month.
We had that same rose disease in my area. So sorry that your roses did not make it. It was sad that so many were affected. I was very fortunate to have my Knock Out Roses spared.
Just did a search for the Flowering Chinese Fringe. That is really pretty! The fact that it is scented is a bonus! Maybe it needs to be established a season or two before it blooms? Do you have a good garden center or nursery in your area? They might be able to give you some helpful advice. Good luck! I have some St. John’s Wart planted by my shed. It took over 15 years to bloom! Even though the foliage is very healthy and has spread nicely in the flower bed, I was granted only 8 flowers. But what glorious flowers! 🙂
Thank you, Sue. Yes, I am very blessed to have two sisters and one BIL that I can count on. Others, I have learned to not even bother to ask for help. It is wonderful to have family, by blood or by choice that step in as needed, and in turn they know they can count on me as well. Last night a friend told me that if taking care of Gracie (after my sister goes home) is too much for me, “Do not board her! She can stay with me as long as needed.” I am very thankful. 🙂
FaceTime with the babies: I am able to take still pictures (using the iPad) while we are visiting. My sister and BIL were thrilled that I could take pictures of the four of them together. After we end our visit, I e-mail them the photos. 🙂
Sorry to hear about your surgery! Peace of mind is knowing that Gracie pup will be in good hands if you need help!
Thank you, Cindy and Jules. 🙂
You have such a positive attitude, Denise, about everything, even now that you’re preparing to have surgery. I will pray for all to go well, and that it restore you to a comfortable and healthy state.
Thank you, weather. 🙂
Oh, Denise, So SORRY you must have surgery!! I hope it will come out very well and will pray so!! We are waiting for the MRI for hubby…was to have been yesterday but we were late due to unavoidable things, and so they postponed it till next week. I hope what goes on with you is better dealt with and the medical people remember that you are ill, or you would not need them!! Glad you have help and reliable help at that!! Will keep watching for updates on here and do pamper yourself all you can!! Sending hugs…
Thank you, Elizabeth.
So sorry that your husband’s MRI was rescheduled. I know you did not need that aggravation! Ironic how sometimes medical offices run late, and then they do not offer an apology or explanation. **hugs**
Thank you Denise…oh yes, I was indeed aggravated!! They WERE running a half hour behind the receptionist told us…but 10 minutes more for us? Nope. No way. Yea, I am not impressed. No one was answering the phone as we tried to inform them of our lateness…yet when we got there four women manning the phones were instead having a chat fest…that also was not impressive. Worrisome really…I surely hope they won’t cause harm to my husband there!!
Hi Sue and Crew,
Long time no comment due to lack of service where we have been; New Mexico and some of her remote areas. Timely post I’d say! We are sitting in a Casino parking lot, hitched to the van, waiting out a snowstorm, in Farmington. Your photos of the pretty yellow flowers give me hope and joy! We had just left Chaco Culture World Heritage Site, after a wonderful week of hiking through every ruin in the park that we could find. We were headed to Durango, when the storm hit. Even the best laid plans sometimes go astray. Oh well. For now we are fine all bundled up inside, under down sleeping bags. The storm will break and we’ll be on our way soon enough. We may not be going into CO however, as they are expecting up to 10’ of snow in the passes. Back into AZ perhaps. It’s supposed to be in the 70’s in Canyon De Chelly by Friday, however it’s Memorial Day weekend, and we had planned on being far remote from the crowds by Thursday, and not near any National Parks or monuments. Seems there is also a place South of us called Bisti Badlands, which is BLM. It’s warmer there too by Friday. Maybe that’s a better choice; more remote, and no facilities to lure family camping.
We’ve had the best time in NM!! Sand Dunes, Silver City playing Trail Angels to the CDT through hikers, the Rio Grande Canyon outside Pilar, and South of Taos, Chacao Canyon (whoo-boy! What a road in!!), Sky City, at the Acoma Pueblo, and all along the Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. I guess you could say we LOVE New Mexico! However, this is the second time we’ve been snowed on since Taos , 2 weeks ago. I might be done with the snow Sue, for this year anyway. I can’t complain though, as we had 70’s 3 days ago while hiking through the ruins at Chaco. You win some, and you loose some, right? When we were in your part of AZ, after leaving Bisbee, it was unseasonably cold then too. Reading your post, I have to chuckle at your comment about not expecting temps in the 60’s this time of year. Us too!
So far we are loving our Casita and life on the road. It’s everything, and more, than we expected. We have seen amazing things, met amazing people, and ran into amazing weather! HaHa!!! Yeah, snow today was not what we hoped for, but we go into the Casino for glasses of brandy and whiskey when the Casita gets too cold. 😁😁
Cheers Sue, and Blogerinos. Smooch the boys for us!
Suzi, Larry, and Kitty 😻
Hi, Suzi,
Very glad to hear from you! Wow, you went to Taos in May and without a heater? You two are adventurers! Your comment is full of new places and new experiences. Looks like you were meant for this lifestyle. I’m happy for both of you… well, all three of you. I just wish you had a heater.
Aren’t you amazed how much you’ve learned in this short period of time? I was. Stuff I learned about our country and about full-timing in a little travel trailer.
Bisti Badlands is a vast area of high desert with great vistas and interesting rock formations. I’m trying to remember why we didn’t camp there when we were in the Farmington area. I guess it was the time of year, too hot and there isn’t much shade there. You may have timed your visit perfectly. Have a fantastic time exploring the place!
I’m sure you know to bring everything you need. No services there.
Ha! To me Farmington will always be “the place where I made a wrong turn and we ended up in Gallup.”
I’m so glad you “are loving our Casita and life on the road.” It tickles me that you are finding it more than you expected. You are gathering up a lot of great tales to tell in your old age…. “One time we camped in the snow and drank brandy and whiskey in the casino to keep warm.”
Cheers to you, too! Thanks for the update. I enjoy your updates immensely.
I love the way you have settled in there Missy. Your little boys never had it better or a more kind and loving human mamma. Bless you Sue and same to the other Blogarinos. I’ve been in the hospital but I’m out and better…
In the hospital again, Jim? I’m sorry to hear that, but glad you are out and better.
God bless you, too, dear one. It’s good of you to keep in touch with us here, as there are loads of folks who care about you. That includes Missy!
AZ Jim
Sorry you had to be in the hospital and hope they took care of what put you there and you are feeling much better. Hopefully the weather where you are will be such that you can get outside and enj0y some warmth and sunshine. Always seems to improve my day. Sending you some prayers, take care of yourself please.
Hi, Jim,
Glad that you are home from the hospital and doing better. Sending you positive thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery. **hugs**
Praying for you Jim. Glad you are home and feeling better.
Oh, dear Jim, I’m really glad you’re out of the hospital and feeling better, and pray you will keep feeling even better each day. Sending hugs and love !
So sorry Jim…hope you are going to be better soon…tis so hard to be in hospitals!! Praying for your recovery.
Hi Sue, I envy your great thrift store finds. I have been trying to do the same here in furnishing my new home but the finds are not nearly as good. Looks like I’m going to have to resort to other means. Still sitting on lawn chairs to watch TV which is still on the floor. Oh well, it’s only been a month.
L0ve the western prints. I have so much art work waiting in Texas for me to bring here I haven’t been looking at any more. Can’t wait until I can get back to pick it up;that’s one thing I didn’t dispose of. I love the feel of all your western art. When I lived in Australia I picked up a lot of prints by Australian artists and enjoyed the search.
Looks like Reggie and Roger have settled in well.
Hi, Nora,
Some towns have great thrift stores, others don’t. Maybe it would be worth your while to drive to a better one. Locals might know where to go. Even with a drive, the savings would pay off.
You have art waiting for you. That’s great! I was struck by your reaction to the western art I showed in this post. You said “I love the feel of your western art.” That’s a perfect description why I was drawn to these prints. I have a connection with the subject matter, old adobe buildings being part of what I saw in my exploration of the west, but more than that, it was “the feel” of the art.
You lived in Australia. I imagine Australia (the outback) has similarities to the western desert of the U.S. Searching for the works of local artists is fun. Kind of like prospecting?
Enjoy your new home, Nora. You won’t be sitting in lawn chairs forever. 🙂
Hi, Sue,
I just left you a note on the previous post. 🙂
Love the beautiful sunrise/sunset header photo, and the natural garden of poppies and lupines! 🙂
You really found bargains in the watercolor prints that you found. In many cases, the frame and glass cost just as much or more than the print. They are the perfect accent for your home. I am glad you were able to rescue them from the castoff bin.
Good luck with the hard frost. I hope all of your plants survive!
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
N’nite!
To all of the blogorinos in the path of the latest round of storms, please stay safe!
Hi, Denise,
I copied your comment and posted it here (above.)
Thanks for the good luck wish for our plants. Our dining room table is resplendent with blooming petunias as the moment. It doesn’t look like we’ll have a hard frost, but I’m not taking any chances.
Sleep well, Denise and Gracie pup! Talk to you tomorrow after I hit the thrift store…
Thank you, Sue.
I hope you had a successful thrift haul! I look forward to hearing about the treasures you found. 🙂
Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Hi Sue!
We always called it an ottoman, maybe its a regional thing? Your house is looking Great! Love the southwest prints, and the southwest look and decor in general. Were in Benson! Originally we were going to stay in Huachuca City, but after a month in Patagonia we were ready for a few stores and more amenities. Staying at Butterfield RV Park. Very nice here, almost like a resort, paved streets!! a pool! Wow! They have a great deal going on during the off season, half off for up to two weeks with Passport America.
Benson is a Great little town right off I-10 with most every amenity you might need. The people here have been especially friendly and helpful. We were able to get our truck serviced, get haircuts, propane, groceries, laundry, eat out and more. Highly recommended if your passing through this area. We like it so much were going to stay another week, especially since the weather has been cool and mild. The locals say temps now are much lower than usual for this time of year. Heading to New Mexico and higher elevations next week.
Be Well & Stay Happy!
FloridaScott
Hi, Scott,
I understand you wanting to be in a place with services and activity. You need a pleasant, enjoyable change and a place to recharge, make a fresh start. Your RV park sounds like a great deal.
Thank you for describing Benson so well for folks who may travel through the area.
Best wishes for your travels in New Mexico. As Suzicruzi and Larry (above) have discovered, NM’s elevation can mean cold and snow, even in May. Maybe by the time you leave Benson, NM will be warmed up more for you. New Mexico is a great state, not to be missed!
We’re well and happy, thank you, Scott. Wishing the same for you! Thanks for keeping in touch. Love your updates…
Hey Florida Scott, just a thought here, if you like books and you are still in Benson, check out The Singing Wind Bookstore. Believe it is off of Ocotillo St heading north. It is a different kind of place as it is in a ranch house and you have to go a bit, not far, to the gate go get there. The owner Winn Bundy I believe, has very good knowledge of her inventory and could talk your ears off. Just something out of the ordinary. Have read reviews that Winn can be cranky at times so be fore warned. Happy travels.
Hassock vs ottoman.
I grew up in the Chicago area. My grandparents one folks called it a haddock.
I call it an ottoman.
Either way, it is a convenient place to sit down to put on shoes, or a comfy place to prop up your feet.
I have two 16” square brown leather ottomans in front of the couch. Gracie likes to lounge on them as it gives her a good vantage point to look out the front window. She kindly allows me to prop up my feet when I am sitting on the couch, 🙂
Hi, Denise,
And we call a haddock a flounder. Haha!
You’ve probably gone to bed for the night so I’ll wait until tomorrow to reply to your comment near the top of this post. So much to talk about and I need to get the potted petunias in the house. I’ll reply to a few more comments and then go for them.
I can picture Gracie on her ottoman perch.
Gee, I can’t tell you how relieved I am to hear from you, although sorry to hear you need surgery. More tomorrow…..
Jeez Louise! My iPad auto correct is out of control. 🤦🏻♀️
I meant to say my grandparents and folks called it a hassock.
xo
I know you meant that. I couldn’t resist making the flounder remark. 🙂
LOL! 😂
I do love the flowers and really it’s all about what’s good for the boys!
That last pic is just precious…
Have a great week.
Carlene and Corky
Thank you, Carlene. I hope you have a great week, too.
The boys in that last picture remind me of a weird saying of my father’s… If he saw that picture he would say “They have eyes like two burnt holes in a blanket.”
I know there are times when their eyes seem to burn a hole in my head. Haha!
It’s nice to know your enjoying your home so much,
Your fluffing up your ‘nest’!
That last picture of the little boondockers on your bed
is so sweet. 😊
Hi, Linda,
You and Carlene were thinking the same thing. Turns out my little boondockers love to luxuriate. They loll and stretch and yawn and nuzzle each other in the covers. I wouldn’t think, with their lightweight bodies, that they could tell that we have a great mattress, rather than seat cushions, under us, but apparently they can.
I sleep so much better now, I can hardly believe it. Nice hearing from you, Linda!
Foot stool!
Aha! And we have no idea where Gloria learned to call it that…
Doggone it, just lost what I was sending you because I took to long or something, Grrr! Will retry tomorrow. Hope you had a beautiful sunset. Be Well.
Oh, darnit! I hate it when that happens to a blogorino! I checked the spam bin just in case it went there, but no sign of it.
I missed the sunset. I was inside online, plus it’s cold outside. Crazy weather! I griddled my supper wearing a thick, quilted vest for warmth.
You be well, too, jazzlover.
Sue I really like every thing you do. The boys are the cutest. Your a very blessed women thanks for all you share I enjoy it all.
What a cheerful message, Sharon. Thank you!
I agree. I am blessed and I’m very grateful for everything.
just got back to reading your blog for the day….your comment about being surprised about how cool the weather is where you are..reminded me of the many driving trips we made to Las Vegas from Houston back in the 70/80/90’s we would always go out on I-10 then head for home thru Flagstaff, Albuqueque and Lubbock it always surprised me to see snow in Flagstaff even in july/august…..
thanks for the memories
You’re welcome, chuck. Now that you mention it, the few times we went through Flagstaff and camped in that area, we were never too warm.
Ottoman…….never heard the word Hassock. Geographical perhaps?
Good boy Roger! Love their faces!
Your new hassock/ottoman or pouf… is wider and the material is different than the brown one, whatever works for Rog man!
You’ve made the art prints look very nice!
Didn’t mean to interrupt your typing. Hopefully the plants will make it.
Watching the weather channel…. anyone in the craziness of the Midwest…stay safe!
Yeah, Roger apparently is particular about his ottoman fabric. Goofball. The little rat was trotting around the yard this evening with a dead sparrow in his mouth. He may be cute but he’s also uncivilized.
Hey, I thought it was kind of cool getting a message about the weather while I was typing about the weather. The petunias are on the dining room table.
I made the art prints look nice? They were already matted and framed when I bought them.
It’s a good thing he didn’t bring it up on the bed!
Ask my iPad what that meant!
Fact: I wrote Jules’ brother an email…asking him if could he help me put the dock in…(our dock is not permanent where the ice will damage it) well apparently iPad wrote d*ck instead of dock.
Messages exchanged on messenger are totally hilarious!
OMG!!! Too funny! 🤣
LOL!
Growing up I thought ottoman was from the south (Mom) and hassock from the north (Dad). One day they both explained to one of their many grandchildren the following
that the ottoman had storage, hassock didn’t and the footstool was for children to reach the counters because footstools don’t slide across the floor.
I have been going to thrift stores for inexpensive frames and to my surprize I’ve found that I enjoy looking for local western landscapes.
I’ve decided to add some container roses to the patio, local gardening club has info on roses that like shade…I’m so excited to add to the succulents.
I must thank you for your sharing your light and refreshing home…I’ve been in a funk lately and see your home and your joy has made me realize just how I have missed my yellow kitchen…not allowed to paint the apartment but I’ve started using some of my sister’s fabrics that she collected to brighten things…I wasn’t sure what to do with this stack of cloth that her husband gave me, now I am having so much fun…can’t have curtains here but using items from many thrifts{ window, rod, frilly curtain and a landscape of Tuzigoot (National Monument AZ)(one of my favorite places) I made a fake window that really seems to look out to the west. I am back to walking again and putting that funk out of my mind and life!
Take Care Sue, R&R and bloggorinos
Good for you, Deena! I admire your self-reflection and determination to climb out of a funk. I have to do that at times, too.
Your fake window project is daring! That kind of creativity can be very satisfying while giving your home a unique personality. The fabrics from your sister… She continues to brighten your life, doesn’t she. I’m glad you’re having fun.
You take care, too, Deena. Thank you for sharing yourself here.
I meant to comment on the hassock-ottoman. Your parents are evidence that hassock is North and ottoman is South. I tend to use either and I’ve lived in both places.
Roses… Yes! Enjoy!
Hi, Deena,
Take good care of yourself! 🌞
Thank you Denise…things are coming up lavender roses…
Hassock or foot stool.
I agree, Linda, and I grew up in New York state. I think it’s a north vs. south thing.
Hi Sue, love seeing the pictures of your house and yard. You’ve done such a great job of making it “home” and decorating with good taste on a budget. According to an article I found on the internet (where you can obviously find everything about anything), here is the difference between an ottoman and a hassock. An ottoman is considered to be a piece of furniture, usually upholstered, sometimes with wooden legs/feet which are usually hidden beneath the upholstery. And they are hollow so that you can store things inside. A hassock is solid (no storage space inside), usually a little bit squishy, can be fabric or leather covered, and is usually smaller and lower to the ground. I think yours is an ottoman. There’s my 2 cents.
Hi, Linda and Gerry,
Interesting! Okay, the brown one is smaller, upholstered with fake leather, and does have storage (the top lifts up).
The flowered one is bigger, is upholstered with fabric, and doesn’t have storage.
Which one is a hassock and which one is an ottoman?
Thanks for the “2 cents.” And thanks also for the kind words about my photos and decorating. 🙂
Foot stool! 😄
Hi, Cathie,
You and Gloria both say “foot stool” and both you and Gloria do not reveal location. Interesting parallel with absolutely no importance whatsoever. 🙂
Thanks for the input. 🙂
Here’s another for you:
Difference between hassock and Ottoman –
Another difference between the hassock and the ottoman is that an ottoman usually has a central space available for storage, while the hassock does not. Lacking the storage feature, hassocks tend to be smaller than ottomans.
Other names for this type of furniture are tuffet and pouffe. Remember Little Miss Muffet?
Hi, Renee,
The brown one is smaller (hassock) and does have storage (ottoman).
The flowered one is larger (ottoman) and doesn’t have storage (hassock).
Maybe the flowered one is a tuffet!!! Or it’s a hassman or an ottosock?
Boy Sue, just when most of us were deciding which name to go with, you throw these three in the mix. Just had to do that, didn’t you? I vote for ottosock.
Actually, in Texas we call it a hassock. My Dad was from Alabama, my mom from central Tx. They called it a hassock! I have always heard both terms used, though, so who knows! Well, speaking of weather, I love the unseasonable cool weather we are currently enjoying in Albuquerque. I think of the 90 degree and 90 percent humidity going on in Texas we just left, and smile, smile, smile! My sister wanted to move to AZ but her hubby thought it was too hot. We visited AZ, just south of Tuscon last July to visit a Robson community down there, and it was toasty! We did like AZ a lot, though! But, Albuquerque is quite nice. We hope to start our traveling soon! On another note, I love your prints and photos of the flowers-and your comment about beauty is so true. We left lots of trees where we lived, but now we have big views of sky and hot air balloons from our windows. Different, but still very pretty. Take care All!
Hi, Terri,
Nice to hear you are enjoying Albuquerque. The change in humidity as compared to Texas must be a delight for you. I know what you mean about “big views.” That’s what I love about the West.
As for your sister’s hubby, he’s wrong to dismiss the entire state of Arizona as being too hot. If every state was judged according to what they experienced there in July, a false picture of those states would be assumed. For instance, Blythe California is terribly hot in July. Therefore, the entire state of California is too hot? 🙂
The high desert and mountain areas of Arizona boast climate that’s hard to beat.
Congratulations on your move to New Mexico, Terri. I’m glad you’re enjoying it!
I’m originally from the Rochester, NY area. I have always called them footstools. I have heard people use the other names, but they sound to fancy to put your feet on.
Great reply, Gloria!
Coming from the same upstate NY village as you……we call it a hassock! Don’t we??
Hi, Joan!
You know, I didn’t know if I use the word hassock because of where I grew up or where I’ve lived most of my adult life (in the South). You cleared that up! 🙂
I love, love, love shopping at thrift stores…so much so that I researched some for my NYC trip at end of July (yes it’ll be hot & humid). I found three that I’ll visit in hopefully half a day. Love the western art collection. I love art too and have to slap myself from buying even tho they are a steal. I should buy a barn and hang nothing but art collection from thrift stores. As it is now, my house is small and most of the art I have came from family artist…even the pots and statues came from family. My recent gift was given to me by niece from my ex-husband’s side of the family…a story teller and xmas ornaments a couple of years ago when I went to visit them in NM. Also, my nephew Josh, won a fellowship to NM Indian Art Festival and did the cover poster…I got one signed by him last year. Unfortunately I mistakenly left the poster tube in rental car never to be seen again…I was so upset and still gets me upset that I was so careless.
Anyway love your collection. Reggie and Roger are adorable enjoying the big bed. They make me smile & laugh.
I went thrift shopping for a couple of hours yesterday and bought two new Catherine night gowns for summer (they’re in the dryer now). Oh, yes, had to run my fingers over paintings I’d love to have but no room to put them up on my wall.
P.S. some flowers popped up in my flower beds that I had planted ages ago. I was so happy, I cleaned the beds yesterday and water the tiny plants…three so far!!
I am supremely in awe of your thrift store finds. One would think, in Tucson, that there would be some good places to go. Alas, alack, this is not the case. I love the watercolor prints. Unlike so much art, they talk to me. I’m so glad you rescued them from the cardboard box.
Two thumbs up for van camping.
Ok! Got it! 🙂
Love the paintings you picked up, even more so for the price. I would love to patronize the local artists here, but we live such a high cost of living area, sellers seem to think everyone is rolling in money, NOT. With that in mind you would think that thrift store finds would be great, they’re not. Most stuff looks like junk and would cost more to redo that to buy new. I’m not talking spruce up and paint, its more like falling apart and need to be rebuilt or missing parts, etc. You can get some nice clothing at pretty good prices. I got a nice summer shirt and 2 pr of shorts for $17. last week.
You neighbors yard is awesome.
Roger & Reggie sure seem to be enjoying the new bed. They have found them a nice soft and comfy playground.
Forgot to mention about the Van camping. In addition to Bob Wells, there are quite a few videos on YouTube that van dwellers have posted. I haven’t checked but PinInterest probable has them too.
That lady’s yard really did look beautiful, amazing what can develop when people just let things grow. Depending on how her elder years have affected her physically, she may not have been able to even come close to producing something so lovely by actively planting, weeding and gardening. I love seeing Providence send people gifts such as that one that they can enjoy, especially if they otherwise couldn’t provide it for themselves.
Your boys are such a joy to watch! Now your oh-so-pretty bedroom is a place the three of you can appreciate again. I’m glad Roger’s initial resistance to a hassock convinced you to use the right one at the foot of your bed, it looks great there! Good job looking through a box of pictures at a thrift store and finding prints by that area’s artists, Sue. I sometimes find little treasures others have overlooked, too, rewarding fun, isn’t it?
Recently, while visiting my friend at the thrift store she runs for the local food bank and church, I was helping a lady put down a few things she had brought in to donate. One hanger had a large men’s raincoat, but underneath that were a couple of other things, too. I removed the raincoat to put it on a separate hanger and then noticed a woman’s sized rainslicker with matching rain pants that had been covered. I asked her if she really wanted to keep that set, and she held back tears as she explained that she had intended to down-size her husband’s wardrobe.
He is in failing health, won’t be able now to go on hikes, and she realized as we spoke that she won’t want to be doing that alone, either, as they are moving to a place that seldom rains, and “We are the same size , would you like to have the set of rain clothes?” … I’ve been looking for the right outfit for stormy days, so of course, I accepted the gift, and she felt better knowing someone caring would still be enjoying and wearing them. Even as I type this my heart aches a bit again for her, it’s touching how close families adapt to accommodate each other’s needs, the way she is for her husband.
Sorta like the ways you rearrange your furniture, home, days and nights for Reggie, Roger, and often, still, for the blogorinos. Thanks again, for all you do 🙂
P.S. hopefully, this comment isn’t full of typos and makes sense, I’m unable to scroll up to proof read it, that frozen screen stuff is happening
Happy for your lovely things…wonderful to be given just what one needs!!! But if we must give things away, it is always helpful to be giving them to others who can use them!! (We have to downsize more again…not sure how we seem to accrue so much…) And adjust to another step farther into what happens as one ages…always adjustments. But I am so grateful for this spot (so far!)…I have been able to sleep incredibly well…and you know what? I am feeling better too!!
To be clear, I didn’t need the set of rain clothes, for some time though, I only had been thinking it would be a nice thing to have them. I already had what most sell as a “raincoat”, while those may partially repel water, they can get and feel wet though, so one outside still needs an umbrella, or just be content wearing damp clothes. I wanted what is called a “rainslickers” , you know, yellow shiny almost plastic on the outside stuff, that water really runs off of, and that’s what the lady offered to me.
What I really needed was a way to connect with her, to get her to open up about why she seemed sad. Talking about rain, hikes and outfits was the avenue to letting her not feel so alone while we shared a few minutes, so she shared what was going on in their lives and felt understood, I think you know what I mean.
Yippee, about your sleeping and feeling better! Did you move into the place with a walk in shower that hubby needed, or if not, what changed things to improve your sleep?
Hi, weather,
I have one of those “rain repellant” jackets. Semi-fashionable, but not very useful. I think it is only good at repelling a light mist. Anything heavier than that means that it will absorb water, soaking me to the bone!
Your slicker and rain pants will allow you to enjoy nature more comfortably during rainy weather. I picture you wearing this outfit with a pair of Wellington boots. 🙂
On the rain gear aspect of this thread:
I’ve been outdoors in the Great Lakes enough to pay attention to rain gear. “Water repellent” is only good for a few minutes of moderate precipitation. I use “waterproof breathable” ponchos or rain suits according to the activity/situation I’m going out in. (Some are better without the poncho flapping in the wind; others call for the poncho’s roominess.) The specific brand I always wind up using is Frogg Toggs. They’re cheap compared to other products with the same quality and they don’t collect sweat. They last reasonably well except that briars or other things will snag on them. I’ve pretty much worn out the current pair, so here’s the ASIN for the next suit: B012E45XOW
Oh, and if I’m not expecting rain, I carry one of those very cheap “emergency” ponchos from a handy convenience store or a big garbage bag.
Thank you for the info, Calvin. I will have to check out Frogg Toggs.
YES, we did move into a 55+ apt place, ground floor, with walkin shower…PLUS another bathroom too…YIPPEE!! And other things here are aimed at the needs of older folks. I am grateful (tho’ I wish it was cheaper…but all things being relative…hey, it is still MUCH cheaper than assisted living would be!!) It is just quiet here (no more racing cars, backfiring cars, screeching brakes, etc….living on a corner is not advised!!) I am grateful that things are quieter most of all!!
I do understand about your encounter with the lady. I am glad you are out there being aware of those needing consolation…that is a very important job, by the way!! Far too few offer consolation these days. I guess they are not made to even think of such? No doubt some hard days for you in the past have helped you to know just what is needed. Bless you!!
Congratulations, Elizabeth, on your new home! May you and your husband be very comfortable and surrounded with peace at your new location.
Thank you, Sue!!
Glad to hear that your new home may be a better fit for you and your hubby, Elizabeth. May you have many more nights of good sleep! 😴
Oh thank you Denise!!…good rest is important for everyone…but as we age, it seems we become more like babies…needing to sleep more than in the middle portion of our lives!! I think many of those racing likely never thought that we had already had 100 others so doing before they arrived that day…not like we only hear them and no others…it was the exceedingly huge numbers of them that got to me eventually. 2.5 yrs ago when we moved there it was a much quieter area…but I think this very straight road with LOTS of “Dukes of Hazard” places to jump their cars, was just too inviting to the racers (thinking back to how my brothers when young would have relished such). Nerve wracking to those hearing it…from about 6 AM until midnight most days. We need more than 6 hours of quiet in 24 hours.
One of the reasons we’re looking at southeastern AZ as a home base it the wonderful weather you described. Makes for much more moderate summers.
Your neighbor’s yard is beautiful – love all that color! Not sure those pups will want to give up that bed even for a short trip 🙂
May justice be served!
For the blogorinos who were interested in the case of Tommie the pit bull who was chained to a fence, doused with an accelerant, and then set on fire.
There had been an arrest! A 20-year old has been charged with a felony. Sue, please feel free to delete the link.
https://www.nbc12.com/2019/05/20/suspect-charged-with-animal-cruelty-setting-dog-tommie-fire/
Karma at its finest! Thanks for the update!
🙂
There HAS been an arrest.
Sue, always enjoy your thrift finds…sounds like some might have value now as well as later too…and that is even better!! And of course, the boys…always so cute…have seen some that look like them at times…and always think of you and boys when that happens.
And enjoyed the photo of poppies!! You know, growing up as a native Californian, poppies were a big deal. They will grow up here too…but not quite so well I think. An interesting flower that folds up when it gets dark!!
Here I am Missy. Hope you didn’t count on me not sticking with ya. I’ve had some health problems, hospital stays, etc., but like a bad dream, here I am. Loved your post and catching up with you and R&R. HUG
Hi, Jim,
You are not a bad dream by any means! You are one of Sue’s blogorinos, stopping by to gather on front porch to chat about everything and nothing. Happy to see you checking in. Take good care of yourself! *hugs* 🙂
Love the expressions – esp the ears! Great buys on the art. Surprising to think they end up at the thrift shop and are being sold for next to nothing.
Hi, Li,
I wonder at times if items like art pieces once belonged to a person who has passed on and the adult children don’t want the things so off to the thrift shop it goes.
Hi Sue I love love your home and it’s exactly what I’m wanting after traveling in a 5th wheel with pickup for over 6 years. I’m not sure I have the decorative sense you do but I’m excited to try. I’m kinda burnt out on camping, I’ve done it alone which I don’t mind at all most of the time A washer and dryer and front porch and real kitchen seems so devine! Thank you so much for sharing your life with us
You’re welcome, TexasSue.
I understand about the yearning for a washer and dryer, a real kitchen, and all the other things a permanent residence provides. Oh my, Amazon shipments! I love ordering from Amazon without the hassle of finding a shipping address.
I feel the same way about “decorative sense.” To tell the truth, I’ve made very few decisions about decorating this house. I see something I like at the thrift store, I buy it, bring it home, and see where it “fits.” Sometimes it does, other times it goes into the closet for a yard sale or donation back to the thrift store. I ignore trendy. I’d rather have a home filled with things that I like.
I hope you find the perfect place for you, Sue.
Sue, adorable Boys, Fellow Bloggerinos,
Thought I’d check in and catch you all up on my adventures. After many thwarted attempts at packing and loading my truck for travel, I finally made it away from home, not at 2AM on Wed as planned but at 8:47PM that evening. After a fairly pleasant drive north, the truck arrived in Bethlehem, PA as planned. I think I was there but by then, my whole body was so numb, I’m not totally sure.
The weather here is just so lovely, dry air, pleasant breezes, everything so lush and green. The temperature is absolutely perfect. So, got ready to get dressed – voilá – no undies. Socks only. Also no bras. First item on today’s agenda – Walmart. Next, 2 camera lenses were accidently left at home. No problem. They won’t be needed for today’s shoot nor for this weekend’s shoot.
The good news is that daughter has boarded her flight at SeaTac bound for Newark’s Liberty and Mom is monitoring closely on app called “Flight Aware”. I told her to warn her pilot when she boarded. If the left seat PIC varies from flight path even one mile, he WILL have an overbearing and very loud Mom in his headset. ☺️☺️☺️
A couple of years ago, I met daughter in Albuquerque for the Internation Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. We had such a great time. I was so lonely on leaving her that I wrote an email to a whole crowd of my friends and family to say I and they were travelling on a “bus” across back to my home in GA. I was the “bus” driver (the “bus” being the emails I sent). I received so many wonderful and very funny responses and wasn’t lonely at all.
So, when I travel, this trip being no exception, I take photos with my iPAD to include sights of where we are and what we are seeing, and do emails along the way. This trip’s short bus has 1 driver extrordinaire (moi) and a full load of 27 riders. And I’m having such a wonderful time. My daughter will land in Newark this afternoon, friends will pick her up and they will meet me at the Equestrian Center of their college EQ team coach and husband. I will be doing photos of the first riding lesson of a 2 yr old and am so looking forward to that.
As I always say – “that’s my story and I’m sticking to it”.
Ta! to everyone.
Thank you to all here who have served. I am trying to do good and live my best life so your efforts will not have been in vain.
Wishing everyone a happy, safe and memorable weekend.
Calvin, a super late happy birthday wish. Always look forward to your comments as I most always learn from them.
Jim AZ, Happy to hear you are doing better.
Denise, prayers for you and your surgeon. Wishes for full and rapid recovery.
Sue, I’m hungry. What’s for b’fast? I could so go for one of your landfill grilled fajitas right now and wash it down with a reallly cold, iced coffee smoothie.
Looking forward to a new post on Tuesday? They get my week started off so right!
Anne – no longer in GA, thank goodness!
Hi, Anne,
Another entertaining update! Thank you for taking the time to write it. Ah, so you forgot a few things. No big deal… so you go “commando” on a shopping trip at WalMart. You probably wouldn’t be the only one. Ha!
Continued safe travels and have fun with the photo shoot!
Thank you, Anne. 🙂
No undies or bras – oh, no! After you got over the shock and irritation, I hope you found some humor in the situation. This trip will always be remembered as the one that started off on the wrong foot; where you forgot to pack some necessities! 🙂
I hope you enjoy your weekend with your daughter, and that you have some gorgeous natural light for your photo shoot! 🙂
Thank you for stopping the”bus” at the “rest stop” to check in and share your trip news! Safe travels, Anne! See you at the next rest stop! 🙂
I found your blog when I was looking for a way to build a bed in our new van, which is a Dodge Promaster. But we have van camped in our Ford vans for years using a metal bed frame with plywood and an airbed on top. We have found it very comfy. Walmart sells foldable platform twin bedframes for $69 (last year) that fit an Intex Twin airbed. The intex mattresses have builtin battery comparments and pumps that inflate them so easily. We have a luggable loo that we take with heavy duty trash bags and kitty litter for boondocking, but we mostly camp in campgrounds and cook on a picnic table and use their facilities. I think you would love it as a way to travel some.
Hi, Paula,
I don’t know if you’ll see this. I have a question for you or anyone. Why an airbed? Would not a regular twin mattress be fine on one of those foldable, metal, springy frames? I see twin metal bed frames frequently at the thrift store.
The entire world of luggable loos, compost toilets, porto-potties, etc. is unknown to me. At my age I need to have a potty that’s easily accessed in the middle of the night, if you get my drift.
Thank you, Paula, for sharing your methods and experience with van camping. I’m considering it. 🙂
I’m not Paula, but I use an air mattress at home and have for the past couple of years.
The air mattress is lighter than any other kind and easy to handle, for example, in setting up and taking down “camping mode.” It’s easy to lift off a platform to get to my “stuff” underneath it. I can easily adjust the firmness to suit my taste and needs for a given nap or night’s sleep. I use the very cheap ones ($8 in twin size from Walmart). Most (but not all) of them have been more reliable than I expected. The only drawback I can think of right now is that people with dogs would need to protect the air mattress from their claws.
Luggable loos or porta-potties are easier than I’d expected. Bob Wells, among others, gives a comprehensive discussion of those. Your choice depends on several factors that are your personal priorities.
I appreciate you answering my question, Calvin. The crew’s claws are a consideration. I admit I’m influenced by a couple I met while camping in southern Utah. They camped in a tent. In the morning they looked like heck and explained that their air mattress lost its air in the night. There were no stores nearby but they took off to find one that sold air mattresses. Their experience had me thankful for the seat cushions the crew and I slept on!
Now that you mention it, I don’t think I’ve ever read any complaints about the portable toilets for camping. Yes, Bob’s site is where I should educate myself.
Well, I’m so confused! Grew up in St Petersburg, Fl., then lived in Canton, Ohio about the same amount of years. I’ve now lived in Greenville, S.C. going on 33 years. So, hassock, ottoman, foot stool, etc., etc. … I’ve used them all. Since my sweet hubby passed May 11, I’ve found comfort and strength in so many different ways, and that includes this blog. I read all that so many on here are going through and how each handles it in their own way. My flower garden is not elaborate or exotic; just the “everyday” kinds I like such as blackeyed Susan’s, daisies, coneflowers, some butterfly bushes and others along those lines. Before my husband passed and he was on oxygen but doing pretty well for his circumstances, friends came and gave him a mini- concert of Hymns. The one sang Ann’s the other brought his classical guitar (He’s a renowned Christian artist originally from Ecuador, travels the world doing concerts, and is a member of my church). They asked hubby to name one of his favorite hymns and then played it for him…In The Garden. Now, early every morning, I walk outside , read the little wrought iron plaque my dad had in his own garden, the one that goes “The kiss of the sun for pardon. The song of the birds for mirth. One is nearer God’s heart in a garden, Than anywhere else on earth.” Then, the words to In the Garden bring me real joy in the midst of adjusting to a new way of life. Thankful for each of you, Judy
That’s lovely, Judy.
I imagine your writing provides “comfort and strength” to others who come here, as you describe a simple way to move through grief.
“In the Garden” was my mother’s favorite, too. Thank you for sharing poignant garden moments with us.
So sorry for the loss of your dear husband, Judy. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Take good care of yourself. **hugs**
Judy, I’m sorry for your loss, and glad that you are finding comfort,strength and joy. May God continue to help you throughout the adjustments.
Well, I thought I’d reply to everyone’s comments and here I am struggling to put out a blog post as promised…. Writer’s block!
If you’re struggling it’s alright to write a post at another time, Sue. We didn’t ask or suggest that you post weekly on Mondays, that was something you said you’d try, and “we’ll see how it goes”. Forcing a way through writer’s block is hard, frustrating and at times produces disappointing results. I hope you relax until you feel like sharing something with us, whenever that happens. Thanks again to all you do, it’s all appreciated. 🙂
You’re always very understanding, weather. And I didn’t even get around to replying to your carefully written, thoughtful comment.
🙁
Over the years you replied to countless comments of mine, don’t give letting some of them go without a reply from you another thought. N’nite
Nothing is promised……go have a great day!
Y’all have to enjoy writing…it will just come to you..
Ever come to mealtime and nothing sounds good like a craving? Then you decide on something because you HAVE to eat…and when it all done…that wasn’t it?
We will wait until you’re good and ready….