days 10 & 11: our house

days 10 & 11: our house

I love our house — which is, by the way, a 24′ rv.  I live here with my two dogs, on the beach in SW Washingon.  And, although I spend a lot of time in Portland, where my daughter lives, this is our house.

I look at it as trading REAL estate for WHEEL estate.  Made the full time move in 2018, and haven’t regretted a moment.

 Living in our house does have some constraints… mostly space.  Which is why the #100daydresschallenge is perfect.

For those of you just joining…I am involved in a 100-Day Challenge, put on by Wool&  —  Same dress.  100 days. Part of my reasons for deciding to do this was to simplify my life, especially with my residential choice.

What’s in store this week:

It’s been a busy couple of days. I drove the 100+ miles back home and settled in back at the beach. Still doing the Bodhran drum challenge at 9 am every morning, just finished day 6 out of 7. (I’ll be sorry to have it end — but have learned a LOT… and realize that I have tons to learn.  This is part of my personal goal to keep learning new things.  So last month, and now this month, I have been doing the Bodhran, and took up spindle drop spinning.  This upcoming week, I’ll be starting the Appalachian Flatfooting and Clogging class.  Super excited about that one.  And I am still working on sweater #2 for the 12 sweater goal I have this year.  Whew.

And I am still trying to blog daily, and show people how to make money from home.

Here is the fabulous skirt that I got from  DARN GOOD YARN!  I have decided that I will only buy clothes that are recycled, or sustainably made, natural fibers.

The fine folks at DGY create and sell products that are good for our planet (reducing impact on the environment and empowering hard-working people.) They also sell yarn to allow their customers to create their own environmentally-friendly crafts.

Woman-owned, thoughtfully sourced and
earth & human friendly. That’s important to me.  Plus, I like supporting small businesses, don’t you?

Use this coupon through February to get 15% off: TRACY15

But first, let’s get caught up with day 10!

Here’s the look that I put together to carry me through a hectic Friday:

 

our house

The Details:

Dog Definitely a part of the look… dog hair, not so much. And it was the main reason I did not get the dress in black.

Boots are my trusty Hunter MuckBoots.  They will probably outlast me.

our house

LAYERS: skivvies, leggings, Woolamina, Button down shirt, Sweater, and Carhart vest (above) and boots.   Makes for a warm and comfortable day. Ready for anything.

our house

The little white appliance you see near the couch is a de-humidifier.  It is a necessity if you live full-time in an RV… even in a dry state.

No one wants a mold bloom.  These also work in sticks-and-bricks homes.

More here for RV Hacks…

our house

Charter Club, 100% cotton blouse.  I found this at a thrift store, and just love the pattern and the feel of it. 

The pullover is chenille, also found at a thrift store.  (I go weekly with Number 1….it’s our “thing”)

 

 

our house

On day 11, I wore my recycled sari skirt from Darn Good Yarn!

our house

Dog Definitely a part of the look… dog hair, not so much. And it was the main reason I did not get the dress in black.

Boots are my trusty Hunter MuckBoots.  They will probably outlast me.

our house

LAYERS: skivvies, leggings, Woolamina, DGY silk skirt, Banana Republic black denim shirt, and  Hunter boots.   And Bracelet.

our house

I’ve tried to clear up some of the clutter, make for a better photo.  I’t is tough with such little space, but I have come up with some good storage hacks for all types of living:

Read more here …

our house

This is a close up of both layers of the skirt.  Watch the video above to see how the different layers work.  I requested neutral colors, and was thrilled that the otherside was pink and purples!”

Bracelet was picked up from a street vendor in Los Algodones, Mexico on a trip to the Dentist.

 

 

our house

That’s it for now.  Hope you enjoyed the outfits and a glimpse of our house!

Don’t miss out – sign up below to get notices of new #tracywearswool posts!

our house

More Tomorrow!

– tracy

As part of the challenge, I will be posting my daily outfits on blog posts as well as social media with the hashtag #tracywearswool — please follow along — and see all the creative outfits that I can come up with!

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low-cost rv hacks

low-cost rv hacks

Full-timers in the RV world (like me) are always on the lookout for low-cost rv hacks to improve their homes. Hack is such a funny word. In previous generations, it meant to chop up… or a taxi driver. But here, hacks are inexpensive solutions, with the alternative usage of common items.  Here are a few of our favorites, ones that make full-time living, extended trips, or even short stays in an RV easier and more organized.

Here are some of my favorite low-cost rv hacks… with links to more information in BLUE

1) MOISTURE CONTROL

Condensation is an ongoing problem. It doesn’t matter how big your rig is… when there are temperature fluctuations, you will have condensation in your rig. And, if left unchecked, it can lead to extensive mold… and the problems that bring. There are several ways to deal with condensation. Of course, keeping the windows open will help, but most times, you need a little more.

The first line of defense in order of economy are small desiccant packages — like the ones that come with items that are shipped to you. These are the little white packets that say “DO NOT EAT”. Start saving them. I seal them up in a small salsa jar, until ready to use. Tuck them inside drawers and cupboards. You can also order them HERE .. in a slightly larger size — and they are well worth it. I leave them in my car, too, if it is being stored or a while. THIS ONE runs about $10 for thirty food-safe packets.

low cost rv hacks

For larger RVS, more people, humidity, or more moisture-prone areas — you can use the larger packets:  SEE MORE HERE. 

But the best bet if you are full time is to invest in an electric de-humidifier. I run mine ALL the time, and have never had a mold problem. At under $70, it has been a great low-cost investment. I can’t tell you how many people I have met who thought they had it all under control until they lifted the bed or the sofa seat. Cheap insurance, and better for your health.

low-cost rv hacks

(That’s the Dude in the back…)

OH… and it is quiet too. I never hear it. Green light changes to orange when the tank needs to be emptied — about once a week. And s fingernail brush works great to keep the dust out of the intake/output grates.

2)  STORAGE

These are the best storage solution around, and one of my favorite low cost rv hacks.. I think college kids use them for moving. Made of recyclable material, I got four for under $28. Super lightweight, and they fold flat, with a zipper that goes across the top and down the side. 25 gal.capacity holds a LOT. What do I use them for? Extra blankets, out of season clothes, towels, shoes and boots, laundry, beach stuff, and my yarn — all fit into these great blue sacks. They are a perfect way to contain clutter and an excellent low-cost rv hack.

low-cost rv hacks

3) CLUTTER TIES

 

My personal favorite little do-dads. These come in a few different sizes. The ones shown are the 3″. Under $4 for 4. I use them to tie up all the cords for my chargers, printer, computer, etc. I have even used them to tie up my hair.

 
low-cost rv hacks

They also come in a MEDIUM SIZE – which are great for Extention cords, dog leashes, storing awning lights, amp cords and fishing rods, and a LARGE SIZE, which works well for hoses and …other large things.

I personally go for the ASSORTMENT — a size for everything.

4) CUT OUT SINGLE USE PLASTIC & PAPER

Want to save ton of space in the kitchen? Cut out single-use plastics and paper products. Not to mention, better for the environment. Fold flat, and super light weight.

I love mine. easy to use, easy to clean. Microwave and dishwasher safe. Leakproof. Best of all — I don’t have a drawer full of boxes of ziplock baggies. MORE INFO– CLICK HERE!

MORE along those lines: REUSEABLE BEESWAX FOODWRAP. My mom was the mom that wrapped our sandwiches in wax paper, neatly folding it like a little present. Problem was, you could never rewrap it. These are the modern version and they hold firmly. I use them for just about everything exept meat. Clean, easy to use, and they don’t take up much space and are lightweight. Definitely a great low cost RV hack.

As far as saving space in the kitchen, nothing has freed up more room than getting rid of paper towels and paper napkins. I get the set of 12 napkins, 100% cotton — because some will always be in the laundry basket! And there is something nice about a meal with cloth napkins. These are my Favorites:

And I have switched to a REUSEABLE UNPAPER TOWEL:

Reusable Unpaper Towels, Natural Loofah Sponges Pack 11, Highly Absorbent, Bamboo Paper Towel Washable Paperless Recycled Organic Cotton Napkins Bathroom Roll Cleaning Cloths Eco Friendly Zero Waste

Full-timers in the RV world (like me) are always on the lookout for low cost “hacks” to improve their homes. Hack is such a funny word. In previous generations, it meant to chop up… or a taxi driver. But here, hacks are inexpensive solutions, with the alternative usage of common items.  Here are a few of our favorites, ones that make full-time living, extended trips, or even short stays in an RV easier and more organized.

I hope you found these little low-cost rv hacks to be useful, inexpensive solutions, that make your RV lifestyle more organized– and more FUN!

And if you are looking  for the ultimate road trip — click HERE!

 

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I LOVE a good road trip!

I LOVE a good road trip!

Road Trip!! They are the best way to see the world. Whether it is loading the car up with a picnic hamper and a blanket, for a quick up the road to enjoy a sunny day, or a well planned, multi-stop adventure, they all make my heart skip a beat or two. As it is, you can see a lot of the country from a car, van or truck.

I have traveled a few miles, however still have some tread on my tires. Therefore, I am always looking for good trip ideas. And of course, I have an enormous fondness for the National Parks. Thank you President Roosevelt!

As it is, I didn’t make up this trip… or the map below. It was designed by an engineer, and has been featured on several websites. However, I thought it was a fantastic idea worthy of sharing!

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Enjoy the Best Trip EVER! The optimal road trip to the U.S. National Parks

BY Randal Olson

In total, this road trip spans 14,498 miles (23,333 km) of road and will take roughly 2 months if you’re traveling at a breakneck pace. I’ve designed this road trip to form a circle around the U.S., so you can hop on at any point and proceed whatever direction you like. Just make sure to follow the agenda from that point on if you want to follow the optimal route!…..

R, Olson

Because … Life is too short not to. So….Where Should I go Next??

I am looking forward to planning a National Parks trip of my own.  And… I found this handy ADVENTURE GUIDE that can help me document my trip. It’s a small travel-size book made for people who like adventures and who want to plan trips, and record their amazing visits to each of the 62 National Parks. There is space for taking notes and trip-planning, plus 62 full-color stickers to commemorate visits to each Park. Pretty Cool…. Check it out   HERE — along with a few other useful road trip items!

Check out my  LINK for cool Road Trip MUST HAVES!

Have you ever wondered about the freedom of the RV LIFESTYLE?? Click HERE for more.

what to pack for a long rv trip

what to pack for a long rv trip

It is hard to know what to pack for RV trips.. especially if you are new at it. Whether you have decided to become a full-timer, or are bridging the gap between houses, or are just planning a long trip….there is a lot to think about when getting ready for an extended stay in your RV.  Foremost is what to take… and what NOT to take.  If you had asked me what I thought I needed 2 years ago… I would have given you different advice.  But after living and traveling in my RV for over 2 years, I have learned better.   I made a few mistakes… but have come up with this list of tips.

1. Decide what to do with all the things you are NOT taking before you start to pack for an rv trip.

Every situation will be different.  If you are keeping your current residence, and returning after a few months, you will probably just leave most of your things in your PERMANANT home, and just take the things you need for the trip.  But if you are gone for longer and are renting or selling your house… you will need to figure out storage options.

If you are NOT moving back into your Home — I strongly suggest one of the POD companies.  I have used them twice.  They deliver the PODS to your address, and you fill them.  Then they pick them up and hold them for you, until you are ready to have them delivered to the next address.  In the meantime, they hold them in a temperature controlled warehouse.  And without much notice, you can go get things out of them. Best part — you don’t have to even have the second address secured to get started.  Storage fees were quite reasonable.

The second option would be traditional storage.  Reasonable monthly fees, and you have more access.

Third option — a rented (or relative’s) garage.  Works well if you have a vehicle you want stored… along with other things.

Option 4 — Just get rid of it. Sell, donate, bequeath. The Jumbo Purge is both liberating and scary. 

I confess I did a hybrid.  I have some treasures and seasonal things stored in a relative’s garage, but I also did the Jumbo Purge.

 

 

2. Clothes — you don’t need as much as you think.

I guarantee you… most people pact too manny clothes.   The length of you stay, and the location(s) will play a big part in what you tea with you.  I have my clothes divided — current season and next season.  The next season clothes live in securely locking tubs that  are kept on the back rack of my 24′ class c.  But whether you store them on a rack, or in undercarriage storage, it helps to keep only the current season’s clothes in the drawers & closet

It’s summer, and I am in the Pacific Northwest where there are huge temperature changes. So… I layer.  I have my basic layer “uniform” — t-shirt, waffleknit, oversized button-down (some flannel, some cotton), a lightweight and a bulky sweater, vest (favorite one is the jean vest) and rain jacket.  Bottoms are either shorts, capris, or jeans

Everything is interchangeable.  For slightly dressier… I have linen — shirts, capris and dresses, which I pair with the different elements of my “uniform” 

Top it off with sandals, tennis shoes, water shoes, and a pair of rubber shot boots and I am all set for footwear.  Lastly, undies, socks and a couple of bathing suits, hats and light weight scarves… and I am ready for about anything.

I tend to get most of my clothes at the GAP — so they are all interchangeable.   10 pieces and you have 40 possible outfits.  And I wear most things more than once (except underwater). I buy linen or cotton, and can wash them out in the sink and dry in the shower.  But then… I don’t mind wrinkles.

 

3. The kitchen

The kitchen is important, especially if you cook a lot.  As far as dishes and silverware.. no more than 2 per person — with a minimum of 4each.  I use melamine dishware:  saves both space and weight. — 12 pc set includes a shallow bowl and 3 sizes of plates — for 4 people, retro aluminum tumblers, insulated travel cups , Nalgene water bottles (gets rid of single use bottles), a melamine garbage bowl doubles as a salad bowl, and measuring cups that double as prep bowls. I love these evo 24 oz bowls — and eat most of my meals on them  I use three bamboo cutting boards one for food prep, and one for a cheese board, and one for small prep.   In addition, I have:

**NOTE: I saved a ton of room switching from paper towels and napkins to cloth napkins, and Swedish dishcloths.

And by using silicone storage bags, I got rid of boxes of single-use plastic.

Silicone bakeware also saves not only space, but weight… which helps gas mileage.

pack for rv trip

4. The linen closet 

Ok… I don’t really have a linen closet in my rig.  It all goes under the couch.  For each person pack: 1 bath towel, 1 beach towel, 2 washcloths. Throw in an extra towel for the dog.

Get a pack of 12 bar mops for cleaning, and cotton dishtowels for dishes. I use an over the sink dish drainer.

Also handy — a collapsible washtub. You will be surprised how much you use this.  From rinsing out clothes to rinsing sand off feet after a walk on the beach.

 5. RV tools and supplies

You should pack a basic tool kit.  Even if you don’t know how to use them, someone else might.  But don’t go overboard.  Include, a hammer, a crescent wrench, pliers, a wire cutter, a screwdriver set, a socket set, a rubber mallet, vice grips, zip ties, duct tape, a flashlight, and extra batteries.

Let’s keep it on the level– literally.  Being out of level is really hard on your rig, especially your refrigerator.  You should always pack a level, leveling blocks, and tire hocks.

In addition, you will need a fresh water hosepressure regulator, and inline water filter, a sewer hose set up, sewer hose support system, and either a 30 amp power cord  or a 50 amp power cord

****DO NOT USE A REGULAR EXTENTION CORD!! They will get way too hot, If you are unsure, talk to an RV Professional.

I also have a cleanout hose— so I don’t have to use my freshwater hose to flush out my tanks.  Yuk.

And I have a hitch mounted folding cargo carrier  so I can bring my bicycle, surfboard, and locking, stacking utility tubs.

 

pack for rv trip

6. Making it homey

Everyone has their own style. It is hard… but the best advice I can give is to keep it simple and try to minimize clutter.  Everyone will need blankets and pillows, and maybe a throw to wrap up in.  More than likely, you will have an outside area to decorate as well

I use a patio mat to keep the dirt out of the house and define the patio area, and a foldable camp table for my plants… and for serving food,  a couple of zero gravity chairs to sit in around the fire pit.

Even though I have an awning, I also have a popup. Works great over the picnic table, and lets you spread out. I also have a great, lightweight, freestanding folding hammock.

7. Hobbies and toys

This is the fun part — and all up to you.  I personally have a lot of fun: guitars, ukuleles, music stands, knitting things, and yarn, art supplies, books, travel scrabble and cards. 

I also have an Amazon ECHO — so I can listen to music, the news, set alarms, ask questions, and find out the weather.  I can even ask it to call people, or look up recipies.  Best of all… I play audio books on it.   So I knit and listen to books, or play guitar to music… or just keep current on what is happening in the world.

So have fun.  Save space and weight making smart choices, and you will have more room for fishing poles, golfclubs, tennis rackets, kayaaks…. or what ever else floats your boat!

 

Happy Camping.

Tracy

what to pack for a long rv trip

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