Time flies when you're having fun, and I've been having fun. I've accomplished just about everything on my bucket list in life. The RV is fully winterized, has new windows, was remodeled inside to stop the drafts. The old propane furnace was ripped out and I heat with a couple of small radiator style electric heaters. My utility bills average about $50 a month.
The van is history, but the idea of it is not. I'm no longer able to drive due to my vision problems, but Rocky the van served his purpose well. I'll always be a vanpacker at heart, even living in my immovable "RV" in a small trailer park in Missouri.
Officially, I'm retired on disability. It's a good thing, because it was getting harder and harder to put in a normal days work without having migraines or losing focus. As much as I thought my depression symptoms would magically disappear after retiring, that didn't happen. I still struggle with clinical depression. It seems a lot of my problems with mental focus and juggling clutter and stress were tied up with the mad whirl of "getting and spending". I knew it and just could not see it. While I'm not in the "can't get out of bed" category, I'm definitely leaning towards the "can't stay up long" category of depression, and have to continually work on my motivations. The real change in my life is that I no longer invent stress to take the place of motivation.
Four years later I live a simple life that is without clutter. My biggest obsession is still with healthy food, only now I grow it, ferment it, and otherwise prepare it or preserve it as a focused hobby. I am writing my own version of the "Great American Novel", working on a blog idea for "real paleo eating", and planning an Alaskan cruise for next year. I just ate an entire avocado, a couple of handfuls of pepitas (raw pumkin seesds), and a big glass of spring water. It's a chilly, damp Missouri afternoon and I can't decide whether to nap or read and nap. What a hard decision!
This blog was never intended for an audience, but for my own personal growth. I'm gratified to see that growth is what I achieved in the past 8 years, as painful and stressful as it often was. If someone does visit my self-indulgent blog, my hope is that you immediately toss all your stuff, jump into any vehicle you own, and just start living off the grid. Don't wait and overplan. Just do it!
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Thursday, March 25, 2010
I am back
Another reason for not blogging here more regularly has been my involvement in politics. Being a Libertarian stuck in Misery (Missouri) the incongruity of folks who profess christian charity and personal responsibility while reviling President Obama comes to a sharp point when I'm sitting in a room full of Republicans on the dole. There is high unemployment here and a severe lack of health care options for the working poor. I joined them and now have Medicaid, the first step in getting help with my pre-existing eye conditions. But in spite of my problems I've joined the Democrats here to assist with phone calls and gathering signatures, or basically anything I can still do within my vision limits. The recent passage of a bill that begins health insurance reform was a historical event. Hopefully, we can all settle down now and work on other pressing issues like alternative energy and women's rights.
While I may whinge on this blog about whatever is bothering my poor old mind, it is merely to illustrate ways to think ourselves out of the problems of life. Where a faux-christian will cry "why did G-d let this happen to me", there are those like me who grant that good and bad things happen to people. It is up to us how we handle it, using the intellect we were granted.
While I may whinge on this blog about whatever is bothering my poor old mind, it is merely to illustrate ways to think ourselves out of the problems of life. Where a faux-christian will cry "why did G-d let this happen to me", there are those like me who grant that good and bad things happen to people. It is up to us how we handle it, using the intellect we were granted.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Where Have I Been
It has been a very long time since I posted last. So much has changed. Sister is going to kill me for using her computer because I posted on some sites and used her account automatically by mistake. We have the same politicval views, but I can be more cutting in my prose and was on a bit of a roll. I'm just tired of all the bullshit in the world. I blame it all on faux-christian repubtards. There hasn't been an honest conservative in the repubtard party since the neo-cons took over. But I digress.
I finished a long journey taming materialism and continuing with survival plans. Like sister and her DH I also outfitted a plain white passenger/work van as a stealth camping van. What some folks may not understand is that homelessness can happen in advance of TSHTF, or you may need to travel for work farther afield and that having a stealth van camping situation will allow you to save a lot of money on lodging and travel expenses. On one of my last programming jobs I stayed in the parking lot and took buses to shop. The company had a gym available to contractors so I used it early in the morning and appeared to be an eager worker. They just loved me!
The changes though have come to a head. Years ago I had retinal detachments and scleral buckle surgery to repair them. My vision was sufficient for most tasks. But in the past year or so I noticed that I could not focus to read and that migraine attacks came quickly upon any attempt to read a computer screen. Plus the opthalmic migraines increased from one or two a month to one or more a day. That is when you suddenly lose vision for a period of 20-40 minutes at a time. I began to fear driving alone expecting an attack to come upon me. That lead to a decline in posts and overall interest in things that mattered to me. Yes, I finished all the urgent tasks then vegetated myself into a bit of a depression.
I just got a complete eye exam and found out I have advanced cataracts at a fairly young age. With the retinal detachment history I am not a great candidate for intra-occular lens implant surgery. I'm probably going to have it done, but not until I've gotten on disability and become eligible for Medicare so that I can get the best possible care. Unfortunately, anything that happens to me that affects vision is "pre-existing condition" and will not be covered by my health insurance. I could have a new condition, a brain tumor, and if it affects my vision in any way whatsoever it will not be covered. That's a sad way to run a health care system. An otherwise healthy and productive worker is forced to go onto disability to get medical care to help her stay productive.
My condition is not self-inflicted. But I see obese people get disability for back problems, smokers get disability for lung problems, people with diabetes from poor lifestyle and nutritional choices get disability. But I'm going to be going through hoops. A high school drop out will get disability faster than a nearly blind college graduate. Like, where do they think I can *go* and *work* without the training for the blind offered to younger people? Like my college degree somehow obviates a physical challenge. I'm using a screen reader to hear this site and Dragon Naturally Speaking to "type it".
It's ok. My trailer and van are paid for. I just paid off all the taxes so now I'm broke again. That ought to do it. I'm now more eligible to go on the dole. So for now, I shall say "I'll be back!"
I finished a long journey taming materialism and continuing with survival plans. Like sister and her DH I also outfitted a plain white passenger/work van as a stealth camping van. What some folks may not understand is that homelessness can happen in advance of TSHTF, or you may need to travel for work farther afield and that having a stealth van camping situation will allow you to save a lot of money on lodging and travel expenses. On one of my last programming jobs I stayed in the parking lot and took buses to shop. The company had a gym available to contractors so I used it early in the morning and appeared to be an eager worker. They just loved me!
The changes though have come to a head. Years ago I had retinal detachments and scleral buckle surgery to repair them. My vision was sufficient for most tasks. But in the past year or so I noticed that I could not focus to read and that migraine attacks came quickly upon any attempt to read a computer screen. Plus the opthalmic migraines increased from one or two a month to one or more a day. That is when you suddenly lose vision for a period of 20-40 minutes at a time. I began to fear driving alone expecting an attack to come upon me. That lead to a decline in posts and overall interest in things that mattered to me. Yes, I finished all the urgent tasks then vegetated myself into a bit of a depression.
I just got a complete eye exam and found out I have advanced cataracts at a fairly young age. With the retinal detachment history I am not a great candidate for intra-occular lens implant surgery. I'm probably going to have it done, but not until I've gotten on disability and become eligible for Medicare so that I can get the best possible care. Unfortunately, anything that happens to me that affects vision is "pre-existing condition" and will not be covered by my health insurance. I could have a new condition, a brain tumor, and if it affects my vision in any way whatsoever it will not be covered. That's a sad way to run a health care system. An otherwise healthy and productive worker is forced to go onto disability to get medical care to help her stay productive.
My condition is not self-inflicted. But I see obese people get disability for back problems, smokers get disability for lung problems, people with diabetes from poor lifestyle and nutritional choices get disability. But I'm going to be going through hoops. A high school drop out will get disability faster than a nearly blind college graduate. Like, where do they think I can *go* and *work* without the training for the blind offered to younger people? Like my college degree somehow obviates a physical challenge. I'm using a screen reader to hear this site and Dragon Naturally Speaking to "type it".
It's ok. My trailer and van are paid for. I just paid off all the taxes so now I'm broke again. That ought to do it. I'm now more eligible to go on the dole. So for now, I shall say "I'll be back!"
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Cats vs Dogs
Cats and I get along very, very well. We don't have any socialization issues or soiling issues, which is often the same thing. However, I just got a teeny, weeny 11 week old female Chihuahua named Zena. No problems just yet, but from all the dog socialization websites out there it would lead you to believe that a cat lover would be more alpha with a dog than dog lovers are. Humans failing to be "alpha" is what appears to confuse dogs. This lead me to think about the cat lover's way of life, in contrast.
My old roommate had a Chihuahua who seemed fairly tolerable, not yappy, but he was completely in charge of being let out and being walked. On the order of 20 times a day! Oh, no we don't! My Chihuahua will be using a litter pan! LOL
Cat's only require a few simple things. Peace and quiet, cleanliness, a scrupulously clean litter pan or two, food and water available at all times. If you socialize your new kitten or cat properly with those conditions, you won't get bitten, scratched, or mauled, and you won't find eliminations in the wrong place.
Bring your new kitten or cat home and have a quiet room prepared that has a clean litter pan, food, and water. Make sure it is a clean room with nothing left on the floor. If you don't respect your space, they figure anything goes. It's rugs, laundry, paper, and boxes left out that get special kitty attention at bathroom time.
So, for a few days, confine the cat and all interaction to the one room. Play with your cat by using a fishing rod type of toy, never, NEVER directly with your hands. You don't want them to think that it's ever ok to engage you with their teeth and claws. I have six cats, two who were feral, who never hiss, scratch, or bite. They got nail clipping attention early and often, and were not bothered unless they wanted to play.
My old roommate had a Chihuahua who seemed fairly tolerable, not yappy, but he was completely in charge of being let out and being walked. On the order of 20 times a day! Oh, no we don't! My Chihuahua will be using a litter pan! LOL
Cat's only require a few simple things. Peace and quiet, cleanliness, a scrupulously clean litter pan or two, food and water available at all times. If you socialize your new kitten or cat properly with those conditions, you won't get bitten, scratched, or mauled, and you won't find eliminations in the wrong place.
Bring your new kitten or cat home and have a quiet room prepared that has a clean litter pan, food, and water. Make sure it is a clean room with nothing left on the floor. If you don't respect your space, they figure anything goes. It's rugs, laundry, paper, and boxes left out that get special kitty attention at bathroom time.
So, for a few days, confine the cat and all interaction to the one room. Play with your cat by using a fishing rod type of toy, never, NEVER directly with your hands. You don't want them to think that it's ever ok to engage you with their teeth and claws. I have six cats, two who were feral, who never hiss, scratch, or bite. They got nail clipping attention early and often, and were not bothered unless they wanted to play.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Limbo Waiting Projects
It's been awhile since I felt like updating my blog. The problem is that I want to take this in a new direction while I'm torn in so many other directions, caught up in my old dramas and projects. I've recently commited to finishing up several work projects, several home projects in the trailer, and two personal projects. I'm trying to convince myself that the projects are part of the larger plan to live a mobile lifestyle, supported by the technology I crave and the peace of mind I require. I can convince myself of anything, apparently!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
And a storm blew through it
One of the joys of living in Missouri is wating for the weather to change. A friend of mine came out to keep me company and help me with my downsizing, and after less than a week here he enjoyed the Missouri pasttime of watching the weather channel and news stations for clues to where the softball sized hail and the tornadoes planned to land. Of course, being based in a tiny little metal box, a little bigger than a Class A RV, barely tied down to a muddy hill that threatened to slide into Highway 63, makes the weather news just that much more interesting. Fortunately, we made it through the night.
I have three cats at the vet getting surgeries today, and was disappointed that I couldn't grab the feral mother cat running around like a drunken harlot in the trailer park. I want to get her fixed, ASAP! I have two of her cast-off youngsters in my RV and I'm not happy about it. Once Batman (friend's AKA) helps me with the cleaning and downsizing this weekend, we'll make some videos and post them to help me find homes for everybody.
I have a Spike and a Kristi Belle Belle, plus a Loki and a Nikki. I do not also need a Thor and a Pongo. And to top it all off, my new guinea pig just had SIX babies. Guinea pigs simply do not have that many babies and I don't think anyone will believe me. They are less than a week old and growing daily, all except for Ru-Runt, the tiniest guinea pig I've every seen in my life. He's just itty bitty and I have to hold the momma down for him to nurse several times a day. When I pick up the cats today I'll take Ru-Runt and one of his bigger siblings to show the vet and staff. They may be as amazed as I am.
I have three cats at the vet getting surgeries today, and was disappointed that I couldn't grab the feral mother cat running around like a drunken harlot in the trailer park. I want to get her fixed, ASAP! I have two of her cast-off youngsters in my RV and I'm not happy about it. Once Batman (friend's AKA) helps me with the cleaning and downsizing this weekend, we'll make some videos and post them to help me find homes for everybody.
I have a Spike and a Kristi Belle Belle, plus a Loki and a Nikki. I do not also need a Thor and a Pongo. And to top it all off, my new guinea pig just had SIX babies. Guinea pigs simply do not have that many babies and I don't think anyone will believe me. They are less than a week old and growing daily, all except for Ru-Runt, the tiniest guinea pig I've every seen in my life. He's just itty bitty and I have to hold the momma down for him to nurse several times a day. When I pick up the cats today I'll take Ru-Runt and one of his bigger siblings to show the vet and staff. They may be as amazed as I am.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Simply Living
It's been awhile since I posted last. I've been snuggled in the RV for the past two weeks instead of traveling around in Rocky, my van. And according to plan I've been continuing to downsize while just simply living. The past year or so of ramblings in my blog have been about all my stuff. Egads! Even while musing on it all I knew it was simply ridiculous. Now that I'm simply living instead of living large, I wasn't sure what to post.
The everyday activities of survival and van dwelling are what interest me the most. And if I'm distracted from that in any way, I don't have that much to share. I work as a software engineer and have been focused on finishing a project for general public release. So attention to detail is vital. Add to that the six cats I now house in the RV, and things can get a bit hectic.
The RV is a very small mobile home I bought last summer for $2500. It is next door to a dear friend who watches the place for me when I travel, and it serves as a base address for legal purposes. At the moment, I have custody of two big kittens I brought with me from Pennsylvania, two adult cats I've had for years, and two kittens that I trapped under my RV just before Christmas. My cuppeth runneth over, as does the litter paneth. Oy, vey! Sometime today, between producing a software release and prepping for an ice storm that's coming, I should steam clean the living room carpet and put the place back into shape.
See, no matter how much you downsize there is always something that needs to be done.
The everyday activities of survival and van dwelling are what interest me the most. And if I'm distracted from that in any way, I don't have that much to share. I work as a software engineer and have been focused on finishing a project for general public release. So attention to detail is vital. Add to that the six cats I now house in the RV, and things can get a bit hectic.
The RV is a very small mobile home I bought last summer for $2500. It is next door to a dear friend who watches the place for me when I travel, and it serves as a base address for legal purposes. At the moment, I have custody of two big kittens I brought with me from Pennsylvania, two adult cats I've had for years, and two kittens that I trapped under my RV just before Christmas. My cuppeth runneth over, as does the litter paneth. Oy, vey! Sometime today, between producing a software release and prepping for an ice storm that's coming, I should steam clean the living room carpet and put the place back into shape.
See, no matter how much you downsize there is always something that needs to be done.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Voluntary Simplicity
I'm now officially part of the Voluntary Simplicity Movement. Once I decided upon this course of action and then got going, it was a much simpler matter to ensure that my lifestyle choices veered towards less clutter in both the material and the mental worlds. I'm working on the spiritual world so that I can get the spiritual side of life less cluttered with "me".
At this point I've gotten the income producing side of my life under control. I've acquired the barest necessities to survive living out of my van, as well as gathered all my excess items into one geographical place in order to review them and make them work for me. I'm working towards intelligently converting the remaining assets I have control over into cash for items I may need.
At this point I've gotten the income producing side of my life under control. I've acquired the barest necessities to survive living out of my van, as well as gathered all my excess items into one geographical place in order to review them and make them work for me. I'm working towards intelligently converting the remaining assets I have control over into cash for items I may need.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Relaxed at Last
I have a long way to go, but I think I've got relaxing under control today. I'm juggling several tight deadlines with work and some personal deadlines of less urgency, and I'm still a human being, instead of just a human doing.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Journey
I was pretty busy the past week just handling the journey from Pennsylvania to Missouri. I've now timeshifted and here I am where I intended to be. I feel like I manifest my life according to my intentions--really! It's not as fast as a transporter beam, but I tend to get where I am going eventually.
The adventure of it all is not to be missed! I believe I manifested some vehicle problems because once the Uhaul was loaded to the max and the van was outfitted with cat crates and paraphenalia I got on the road and worried about what would happen if my vehicle broke down. And of course I got to find out. Apparently I can be calm, capable, and resourceful in stressful situations, thank goodness because I get a lot of them! The way I look at it, what's the alternative?
The first day of driving was uneventful. I got on the road Monday at 3 pm, the day before the election. I drove 350 miles and stopped at a rest stop just after passing the Pennsylvania-Ohio border, past Wheeling I think. The memories blur. I parked the long way at the end of the passenger parking lot because the truck area was full to bursting. The truckers were stopped lining the sides of the exit and the entrance, as well as taking up all available space. Even if a space was available I thought it more appropriate for my combination to park in the empty car area.
I slept until 3 am, though it was rough with kittens running about at first. What energy the little scamps have! I must have had a kitten careen off my scalp once to often because I found them crated up when I awoke. I plugged in the Smart Mug and set it on the highest setting, 160 degrees, spooned my instant coffee into another travel mug, then dressed and went to the loo while the kittens frolicked again. Then I crated them up, leaving my adult cat Kristi Belle Belle loose to relax wherever she decided. She's a calm and peaceful rester, so I didn't think she'd be a driving distraction. It took at least a half hour before the SmartMug had heated water hot enough to pour over my awaiting instant coffee, and I was ready for it after less than six hours of sleep. The sleep part was quite good, though. I had a bench seat in the van because it was coming back from Pennsylvania, and I did well there cocooned in several blankets and with bins stacked at the right height to fling my restless legs upon occasionally.
I drove another 50 miles and heard what I thought was a high-pitched whine, though I wasn't sure. I had over-drive off and lowered my speed from 60 mph to 50 mpg, and it seemed quieter so I kept going. Then I heard a grinding, whining sound, like a garbage disposal eating a rubber glove. Then the steering started to go sluggish and all the engine lights appeared. So I looked for a place to pull over and got my combination off the road safely, about five feet from the highway, but stopped about 8 feet short of a guardrail. Ruh-roh!
The first thing I did was turn on the flashers, and the second thing I did was consult my Garmin Nuvi to inquire into accommodation. I found an EconoLodge in Heath, OH that would take the cats. Then I called AAA and requested help for my van with the understanding that towing the Uhaul would cost additional. They got me a great guy in Heath who brought out a flatbed with a ball hitch the correct size. That was fun going back and forth with Uhaul to determine the size of the hitch. It wasn't properly posted on the equipment. Thank goodness I had personal lights to carry around and check things out.
Rick showed up and because I was so far off the road for safety reasons that he couldn't get my van hauled easily, I offered to start it up and back up the combination. But, it turned out that the serpentine belt was a goner and as a result of sitting for several hours with the flashers activated, the battery was dead. I had a portable charger we used to start the van and I backed it up 12 feet, which was fun without any steering available. But with that done, we jacked the trailer tongue off the ball hitch of the van, got the van onto the flatbed, then hooked the trailer to the flatbed.
Because I was travelling with kittens, kitty, and my entire work kit-and-caboodle it was necessary to put the trailer down at Rick's yard, then put the van down at the motel, where I checked in and took an hour to unload the van. Then Rick picked the van up to be serviced, while I set up my lab and worked. Because I'm a van packer I had a cooler of food and drink, a portable kitchen, and everything needed to live, work, and enjoy my life. The motel had a small fridge and microwave, so I was covered.
As it turned out the van only needed a new belt and tensioner ($350), including the second tow charge. I paid $65 for the Uhaul tow, and tipped Rick $60 for the entire adventure. Without his advice and willingness to help, I'd have had a lot more to worry about. The van was fixed in a day, but I was too late to get back in time for the election, so I "elected" to stay in Heath to work and relax as much as possible until ready to go. I extended the trailer rental three days, and stayed until Sunday morning. It took longer to load again, but I got on the road at 11:30 am, and arrived 600 miles later in Rolla, Missouri around 7:30. My bff Marie helped me unload at a pre-arranged storage room, then we returned the trailer. We had to use her truck's jack to get that danged tongue lifted enough for me to drive away from the trailer, then we put the tongue down on a large rock we found. After that, we stopped at a Denny's for a late breakfast where I left the kitteh's and the kittah (lolcats-speak) to frolick.
About all I had the time and energy for Sunday night was to unload the crew and some of the crap. Here it is now, 6:30 am on Wednesday and my kitchen is together, and most of the RV is together. I call my tiny trailer in Missouri "the RV" because it is so tiny-cute. The $2500 find for a permanent home that is paid for. I don't live "in it" any more than I live in a van. I live OUT of it. So, this week I'll work on the last of my sorting and downsizing while working on the current software project. Next week I'll start the next phase of my manifesting--writing, blogging, and making money on the internet. Stay tuned!
The adventure of it all is not to be missed! I believe I manifested some vehicle problems because once the Uhaul was loaded to the max and the van was outfitted with cat crates and paraphenalia I got on the road and worried about what would happen if my vehicle broke down. And of course I got to find out. Apparently I can be calm, capable, and resourceful in stressful situations, thank goodness because I get a lot of them! The way I look at it, what's the alternative?
The first day of driving was uneventful. I got on the road Monday at 3 pm, the day before the election. I drove 350 miles and stopped at a rest stop just after passing the Pennsylvania-Ohio border, past Wheeling I think. The memories blur. I parked the long way at the end of the passenger parking lot because the truck area was full to bursting. The truckers were stopped lining the sides of the exit and the entrance, as well as taking up all available space. Even if a space was available I thought it more appropriate for my combination to park in the empty car area.
I slept until 3 am, though it was rough with kittens running about at first. What energy the little scamps have! I must have had a kitten careen off my scalp once to often because I found them crated up when I awoke. I plugged in the Smart Mug and set it on the highest setting, 160 degrees, spooned my instant coffee into another travel mug, then dressed and went to the loo while the kittens frolicked again. Then I crated them up, leaving my adult cat Kristi Belle Belle loose to relax wherever she decided. She's a calm and peaceful rester, so I didn't think she'd be a driving distraction. It took at least a half hour before the SmartMug had heated water hot enough to pour over my awaiting instant coffee, and I was ready for it after less than six hours of sleep. The sleep part was quite good, though. I had a bench seat in the van because it was coming back from Pennsylvania, and I did well there cocooned in several blankets and with bins stacked at the right height to fling my restless legs upon occasionally.
I drove another 50 miles and heard what I thought was a high-pitched whine, though I wasn't sure. I had over-drive off and lowered my speed from 60 mph to 50 mpg, and it seemed quieter so I kept going. Then I heard a grinding, whining sound, like a garbage disposal eating a rubber glove. Then the steering started to go sluggish and all the engine lights appeared. So I looked for a place to pull over and got my combination off the road safely, about five feet from the highway, but stopped about 8 feet short of a guardrail. Ruh-roh!
The first thing I did was turn on the flashers, and the second thing I did was consult my Garmin Nuvi to inquire into accommodation. I found an EconoLodge in Heath, OH that would take the cats. Then I called AAA and requested help for my van with the understanding that towing the Uhaul would cost additional. They got me a great guy in Heath who brought out a flatbed with a ball hitch the correct size. That was fun going back and forth with Uhaul to determine the size of the hitch. It wasn't properly posted on the equipment. Thank goodness I had personal lights to carry around and check things out.
Rick showed up and because I was so far off the road for safety reasons that he couldn't get my van hauled easily, I offered to start it up and back up the combination. But, it turned out that the serpentine belt was a goner and as a result of sitting for several hours with the flashers activated, the battery was dead. I had a portable charger we used to start the van and I backed it up 12 feet, which was fun without any steering available. But with that done, we jacked the trailer tongue off the ball hitch of the van, got the van onto the flatbed, then hooked the trailer to the flatbed.
Because I was travelling with kittens, kitty, and my entire work kit-and-caboodle it was necessary to put the trailer down at Rick's yard, then put the van down at the motel, where I checked in and took an hour to unload the van. Then Rick picked the van up to be serviced, while I set up my lab and worked. Because I'm a van packer I had a cooler of food and drink, a portable kitchen, and everything needed to live, work, and enjoy my life. The motel had a small fridge and microwave, so I was covered.
As it turned out the van only needed a new belt and tensioner ($350), including the second tow charge. I paid $65 for the Uhaul tow, and tipped Rick $60 for the entire adventure. Without his advice and willingness to help, I'd have had a lot more to worry about. The van was fixed in a day, but I was too late to get back in time for the election, so I "elected" to stay in Heath to work and relax as much as possible until ready to go. I extended the trailer rental three days, and stayed until Sunday morning. It took longer to load again, but I got on the road at 11:30 am, and arrived 600 miles later in Rolla, Missouri around 7:30. My bff Marie helped me unload at a pre-arranged storage room, then we returned the trailer. We had to use her truck's jack to get that danged tongue lifted enough for me to drive away from the trailer, then we put the tongue down on a large rock we found. After that, we stopped at a Denny's for a late breakfast where I left the kitteh's and the kittah (lolcats-speak) to frolick.
About all I had the time and energy for Sunday night was to unload the crew and some of the crap. Here it is now, 6:30 am on Wednesday and my kitchen is together, and most of the RV is together. I call my tiny trailer in Missouri "the RV" because it is so tiny-cute. The $2500 find for a permanent home that is paid for. I don't live "in it" any more than I live in a van. I live OUT of it. So, this week I'll work on the last of my sorting and downsizing while working on the current software project. Next week I'll start the next phase of my manifesting--writing, blogging, and making money on the internet. Stay tuned!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Complexity
What's the opposit of simplicity? Why, that would be "complexity" and I think I've about got that covered!
First, it is Monday, the day before the election, and I'm in Pennsylvania. So with all procrastination accounted for I now have 33 hours to finish some software work, take a shower, and load the van, then head to Missouri to vote. Work will take about two hours, then another two to shower and finish loading. I could be on the road by noon if I hop to it. That means 20 hours of driving and perhaps 6 hours of napping to get to Rolla.
The complexity is that my 3/4 ton extended body Dodge Ram van is being followed by a 6 x 12 Uhaul trailer. When I said I simplified my life I totally forgot about the storage room and the vast amount of stuff I purchased during the past two months. Whoops! There is the $3500 in video equipment for my blogging plans, more jewelry supplies for my van industry, and clothes that I had to buy to show up at work a few times. What was I thinking?
Not only did I buy stuff, I acquired two kittens who will be returning to Missouri along with my special kitty Kristi Belle Belle. Hence the Uhaul, so the stuff can follow me whilst the kittens and cat can play inside the van whenever I stop. I will be so happy to get to Rolla, vote, unload the Uhaul into storage, return the Uhaul, pick up groceries, then settle into the RV with All My Cats. Oy vey! I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
If there is any time in my busy morning I plan to video tape the youngsters with a Chihauhau before I leave one of the three musketeers with my former roommate, little bird. That would make me very happy, so it is a top priority today. If I drive from noon to midnight, at an average rate of 50 mph, then I should be able to make about 600 miles before I pull into a truck stop and sleep in between some big rigs. I won't be comfortable, so I should be on the road again by 4 am. If I drive another twelve hours I could be past St. Louis before rush hour. Or not, I'm not pushing myself.
First, it is Monday, the day before the election, and I'm in Pennsylvania. So with all procrastination accounted for I now have 33 hours to finish some software work, take a shower, and load the van, then head to Missouri to vote. Work will take about two hours, then another two to shower and finish loading. I could be on the road by noon if I hop to it. That means 20 hours of driving and perhaps 6 hours of napping to get to Rolla.
The complexity is that my 3/4 ton extended body Dodge Ram van is being followed by a 6 x 12 Uhaul trailer. When I said I simplified my life I totally forgot about the storage room and the vast amount of stuff I purchased during the past two months. Whoops! There is the $3500 in video equipment for my blogging plans, more jewelry supplies for my van industry, and clothes that I had to buy to show up at work a few times. What was I thinking?
Not only did I buy stuff, I acquired two kittens who will be returning to Missouri along with my special kitty Kristi Belle Belle. Hence the Uhaul, so the stuff can follow me whilst the kittens and cat can play inside the van whenever I stop. I will be so happy to get to Rolla, vote, unload the Uhaul into storage, return the Uhaul, pick up groceries, then settle into the RV with All My Cats. Oy vey! I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
If there is any time in my busy morning I plan to video tape the youngsters with a Chihauhau before I leave one of the three musketeers with my former roommate, little bird. That would make me very happy, so it is a top priority today. If I drive from noon to midnight, at an average rate of 50 mph, then I should be able to make about 600 miles before I pull into a truck stop and sleep in between some big rigs. I won't be comfortable, so I should be on the road again by 4 am. If I drive another twelve hours I could be past St. Louis before rush hour. Or not, I'm not pushing myself.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Simplicity
It was a slow, hard slog through the morass of my belief systems before I finally got it. I knew that something was causing me pain in my life and sensed that it was the sheer falseness of getting and spending. Even during the past two years as I went through the process of getting rid of debt and downsizing I mostly didn't get it. I was still wrapped up in all my stuff.
Lately I haven't posted as much because I'm not dwelling on things anymore, but I want to post about my daily life living out of my van. The van is a nice sized, extended body vehicle with the two bench seats removed. I have a very heavy board over the wheel wells where I keep an SUV sized air mattress. Underneath I keep a crate of gallon water jugs, and bins with cooking equipment and food. The rest of the bins contain clothes, toiletries, a bathing kit, books, and paperwork.
Right behind the driver's seat there are two large plastic containers with three drawers in each. The drawers are latched so they don't open while I'm driving. There is a drawer devoted to quick food and drinks, with coffee, creamer, tea, and hot chocolate. I use a 12-volt smart mug to heat water in the van. Another drawer holds toilet paper, trash bags, port-a-potty waste management items, cleaning supplies, and all manner of paper/kitchen/household things.
A bottom drawer holds batteries, and a battery charger, plus various electrical items like my weather radio and flashlights. Another drawer contains current paperwork items, envelopes, binders, stamps, tape, stapler, and the usual office clutter. The two remaining drawers hold cups, plates, utensils, and condiments. The drawers are to quickly get to things I need. The bins are for when I stop and camp out.
My ultra-lightweight backpacking items hang in an ultra-lightweight backpack from a hook in the van. That holds a Katadyn water filter, solar shower, camping cookware and stove, and basic survival gear. A plastic bin under the "bed" holds extra backpacking gear.
For cooking I've found the simplest solution to be the best. A couple of fold-out wing stoves hold pots over any found fuel such as twigs, paper, and sticks. Some heavy duty aluminum serves as a windbreak. Titanium cookware serves to boil water or saute found veggies. A sharp knife and a cutting board serves as a food processer.
Lately I haven't posted as much because I'm not dwelling on things anymore, but I want to post about my daily life living out of my van. The van is a nice sized, extended body vehicle with the two bench seats removed. I have a very heavy board over the wheel wells where I keep an SUV sized air mattress. Underneath I keep a crate of gallon water jugs, and bins with cooking equipment and food. The rest of the bins contain clothes, toiletries, a bathing kit, books, and paperwork.
Right behind the driver's seat there are two large plastic containers with three drawers in each. The drawers are latched so they don't open while I'm driving. There is a drawer devoted to quick food and drinks, with coffee, creamer, tea, and hot chocolate. I use a 12-volt smart mug to heat water in the van. Another drawer holds toilet paper, trash bags, port-a-potty waste management items, cleaning supplies, and all manner of paper/kitchen/household things.
A bottom drawer holds batteries, and a battery charger, plus various electrical items like my weather radio and flashlights. Another drawer contains current paperwork items, envelopes, binders, stamps, tape, stapler, and the usual office clutter. The two remaining drawers hold cups, plates, utensils, and condiments. The drawers are to quickly get to things I need. The bins are for when I stop and camp out.
My ultra-lightweight backpacking items hang in an ultra-lightweight backpack from a hook in the van. That holds a Katadyn water filter, solar shower, camping cookware and stove, and basic survival gear. A plastic bin under the "bed" holds extra backpacking gear.
For cooking I've found the simplest solution to be the best. A couple of fold-out wing stoves hold pots over any found fuel such as twigs, paper, and sticks. Some heavy duty aluminum serves as a windbreak. Titanium cookware serves to boil water or saute found veggies. A sharp knife and a cutting board serves as a food processer.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
New Holland, Pennsylvania
I've been working hard, helping little bird clear clutter (more on that later), and babysitting my granddaughters. Not where I want to be but I'm comfortable getting some things accomplished.
Today I'm working at the home office of a colleague, who is in New Holland, PA. He was amazed that I could stay so cozy and comfortable in the van at night, just using his shower in the mornings. Heck, even the port-a-potty got some use in the middle of the chilly night. I've stayed a few days now and expect to finish a major piece of the project before heading back to little bird's house closer to Royersford this evening.
Little bird got an "intervention" from her son and I earlier this month. EVERYTHING MUST GO!!! She is finally letting go of stuff. I made it clear and her son made it clear that WE are NOT going to clean it up. SHE must CLEAN IT UP and LET IT GO! There is a pathological clutter problem, really a hoarding problem and she's too great a person to allow this to go on any longer. Every word she says about hopes and dreams is about "one day when my house is clean". Yo! Clean it today, one square foot at a time.
I posted a bit about the issue earlier in my blog. I'm a minimalist, neat freak, with delusions of simplicity. For awhile I allowed myself to suffer as her roommate, freely "helping" by cleaning entire rooms only to come home from work to see them trashed. I finally told her how it made me feel. Her son confronted her on her belief that the clutter and mess came only from the time she had hand surgery. I had believed that, until he pointed out to her that this problem has been around since he was small. He cried as he told her that the way they lived hurt him and made his early life difficult. He was pushed to a tiny area of a cluttered room with barely enough room for his bed. He showed her pictures of it before she would accept what she had done to him. I showed her pictures of the kitchen as it would look to me after a hard day at work, then coming home to food leavings and dirty dishes everywhere, when I had cleaned it up before leaving for work! Never again!
I only spend my energy giving her moral support now, because she asked for help. Help can only be moral support. Nobody else can clean up her life and expect that the lesson will take. She simply has to do the inner work to ensure that happens.
So, I'm finishing up here at work, then next week I'm headed back to Missouri for the winter. I want to winterize my tiny trailer and settle in with my new kittens. I'll travel again when the cold season is nearly over, taking a kitten or two with me.
Today I'm working at the home office of a colleague, who is in New Holland, PA. He was amazed that I could stay so cozy and comfortable in the van at night, just using his shower in the mornings. Heck, even the port-a-potty got some use in the middle of the chilly night. I've stayed a few days now and expect to finish a major piece of the project before heading back to little bird's house closer to Royersford this evening.
Little bird got an "intervention" from her son and I earlier this month. EVERYTHING MUST GO!!! She is finally letting go of stuff. I made it clear and her son made it clear that WE are NOT going to clean it up. SHE must CLEAN IT UP and LET IT GO! There is a pathological clutter problem, really a hoarding problem and she's too great a person to allow this to go on any longer. Every word she says about hopes and dreams is about "one day when my house is clean". Yo! Clean it today, one square foot at a time.
I posted a bit about the issue earlier in my blog. I'm a minimalist, neat freak, with delusions of simplicity. For awhile I allowed myself to suffer as her roommate, freely "helping" by cleaning entire rooms only to come home from work to see them trashed. I finally told her how it made me feel. Her son confronted her on her belief that the clutter and mess came only from the time she had hand surgery. I had believed that, until he pointed out to her that this problem has been around since he was small. He cried as he told her that the way they lived hurt him and made his early life difficult. He was pushed to a tiny area of a cluttered room with barely enough room for his bed. He showed her pictures of it before she would accept what she had done to him. I showed her pictures of the kitchen as it would look to me after a hard day at work, then coming home to food leavings and dirty dishes everywhere, when I had cleaned it up before leaving for work! Never again!
I only spend my energy giving her moral support now, because she asked for help. Help can only be moral support. Nobody else can clean up her life and expect that the lesson will take. She simply has to do the inner work to ensure that happens.
So, I'm finishing up here at work, then next week I'm headed back to Missouri for the winter. I want to winterize my tiny trailer and settle in with my new kittens. I'll travel again when the cold season is nearly over, taking a kitten or two with me.
Monday, October 13, 2008
October Mornings Interrupted
Here's another October morning interrupted by everything but what I want to do. It's my own fault because I stayed an extra few weeks to help my friend little bird clear more clutter and get her life in order. The job was quiet and I spent a few weeks doing nothing. Now the job wants some deadlines met lickety-split and I need to get cracking. I'd rather spend the morning under the covers in my van, snuggling with a kitty cat. I just got a new kitten and she's definitely a snuggler.
Instead I am slaving over a hot computer with nary a hot chocolate or a snack in sight. I am cold (obviously) and I'm bored of this work. Ok, smacks head and gets focused again. I'll finish up some magstripe encoding then I'll go to Giant and pick up some Rice Dream or something vegan for a snack. Then I'll nap, and then I'll work on the item to be delivered tomorrow. And the documentation of it all.
I have to remind myself why I'm working like this. To pay 2008 taxes and save up some money to invest in a stock photography business. And a new career making vid's for YouTube. And because I like what I do. Computers are my life!
Yeah, right!
Instead I am slaving over a hot computer with nary a hot chocolate or a snack in sight. I am cold (obviously) and I'm bored of this work. Ok, smacks head and gets focused again. I'll finish up some magstripe encoding then I'll go to Giant and pick up some Rice Dream or something vegan for a snack. Then I'll nap, and then I'll work on the item to be delivered tomorrow. And the documentation of it all.
I have to remind myself why I'm working like this. To pay 2008 taxes and save up some money to invest in a stock photography business. And a new career making vid's for YouTube. And because I like what I do. Computers are my life!
Yeah, right!
Friday, October 3, 2008
A Long Cold Winter
It's going to be a very long cold winter for 2008-2009. With petroleum based product prices going up and the economy tanking we who live the alternative lifestyle of thrift and frugality need to prepare ourselves for the coming hard times.
At this time I have both a van to travel in and live out of, plus a small mobile home in Missouri. The van is warm enough for camping, really. My plans to outfit that small space are not as extensive as my plans to prepare the mobile home for this winter. The trailer uses propane for heating and cooking. Ordinarily, using heat like it's water, the propane tank has to be filled up approximately three times during the year. I would like to get that down to only two times per year.
The issue is the fluctuating price of propane, and the fact that you need quite a bit of cash to fill the tank each time. The cost was about $550 per fill-up last winter. I plan to set things up so that I rely on electric heat and other measures to avoid using the propane furnace as much as possible. The 10 year old furnace needs service to be sure it is most efficient. Then the water pipes need heat wrap, to allow the trailer temperature to be kept lower. If I set the heater to 50 degrees, then I can use electrical appliances to provide comfort heat in areas where I most need it. The electric company is cheaper than propane now, due to the economy of scale. The electric company can obtain power from many sources, not only petroleum based sources.
Some of the windows are like sieves, while the rest are good quality storm windows. I'll tape up the windows from the outside, then fill the insides of the windows with filler of any kind. Then I'll hang heavy quilts and blankets on the walls and behind curtains, to provide a bit more insulation. Of course I'll leave a few places for the wind to whistle through. The idea is to keep my heat inside the trailer. I may add some insulation boards inside the skirting of the trailer, depending upon the cost and what I can obtain. Of course I'll research the concept to be sure it is "safe".
To use supplemental electrical appliances for heat means ensuring that I don't overload any wiring. The wiring is up-to-date, and I would space the appliances carefully. For instance, I would use a fan heater in the bathroom to use while in the shower and dressing warmly. Two forced oil heaters would go into the living room and the one bedroom I use, to be used singly. I'm in one room or the other, not both at the same time. Generally, only one heater would be used at a time.
I have a second bathroom that isn't being used. I want to make that room a storage area. If I can get someone to pull out the plumbing and cap it off, then I can keep that room unheated. We aren't allowed to have wood stoves in the trailer park, for safety reasons. If I could have one it would be great for keeping warm and for cooking stews. But I can put one in my empty storage shed for emergency warmth. If the electric goes out, we are kind of screwed, even with a propane furnace. I'd need propane heaters for backup. Or something. It's the water pipes that scare me in the winter. I don't need an expensive plumbing problem. I know, I can run the water. What fun! Pipes bursting or water flooding. There is are several cold snaps to look forward to.
In any case, whether I use my propane furnace or not, my total living expenses are expected to be no more than $300 for land-locked needs. Including lot rent, electric, cable, and propane deliveries. I wanted to just live out of the van but I have interests in life that make having at least one permanent homesite more convenient.
At this time I have both a van to travel in and live out of, plus a small mobile home in Missouri. The van is warm enough for camping, really. My plans to outfit that small space are not as extensive as my plans to prepare the mobile home for this winter. The trailer uses propane for heating and cooking. Ordinarily, using heat like it's water, the propane tank has to be filled up approximately three times during the year. I would like to get that down to only two times per year.
The issue is the fluctuating price of propane, and the fact that you need quite a bit of cash to fill the tank each time. The cost was about $550 per fill-up last winter. I plan to set things up so that I rely on electric heat and other measures to avoid using the propane furnace as much as possible. The 10 year old furnace needs service to be sure it is most efficient. Then the water pipes need heat wrap, to allow the trailer temperature to be kept lower. If I set the heater to 50 degrees, then I can use electrical appliances to provide comfort heat in areas where I most need it. The electric company is cheaper than propane now, due to the economy of scale. The electric company can obtain power from many sources, not only petroleum based sources.
Some of the windows are like sieves, while the rest are good quality storm windows. I'll tape up the windows from the outside, then fill the insides of the windows with filler of any kind. Then I'll hang heavy quilts and blankets on the walls and behind curtains, to provide a bit more insulation. Of course I'll leave a few places for the wind to whistle through. The idea is to keep my heat inside the trailer. I may add some insulation boards inside the skirting of the trailer, depending upon the cost and what I can obtain. Of course I'll research the concept to be sure it is "safe".
To use supplemental electrical appliances for heat means ensuring that I don't overload any wiring. The wiring is up-to-date, and I would space the appliances carefully. For instance, I would use a fan heater in the bathroom to use while in the shower and dressing warmly. Two forced oil heaters would go into the living room and the one bedroom I use, to be used singly. I'm in one room or the other, not both at the same time. Generally, only one heater would be used at a time.
I have a second bathroom that isn't being used. I want to make that room a storage area. If I can get someone to pull out the plumbing and cap it off, then I can keep that room unheated. We aren't allowed to have wood stoves in the trailer park, for safety reasons. If I could have one it would be great for keeping warm and for cooking stews. But I can put one in my empty storage shed for emergency warmth. If the electric goes out, we are kind of screwed, even with a propane furnace. I'd need propane heaters for backup. Or something. It's the water pipes that scare me in the winter. I don't need an expensive plumbing problem. I know, I can run the water. What fun! Pipes bursting or water flooding. There is are several cold snaps to look forward to.
In any case, whether I use my propane furnace or not, my total living expenses are expected to be no more than $300 for land-locked needs. Including lot rent, electric, cable, and propane deliveries. I wanted to just live out of the van but I have interests in life that make having at least one permanent homesite more convenient.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Van Dwelling
I can't believe that I'm finally pursuing my golden dream of living out of a van and traveling the country. The idea struck me about 18 months ago and I've spent my time avidly reading about the lifestyle while making preparation to make it a reality. Obviously I could have just jumped in my car and got on with it, but while I still had a little money and energy it seemed beneficial to plan my escape.
That involved downsizing my vast quantity of consumer stuff and rethinking how I'd manage the daily tasks of life. My dream starts with waking up when I feel like it and having tea and a long read before getting up and about. That meant having a comfortable place to sleep, a place to potty in private, and a way to heat water for tea. That was resolved with a 2000 Dodge Ram Van with an extended body and lots of room for a bed platform, storage, and room to move around. A trucker's 12 volt hot pot for water, and a small portable pot with a toilet seat and lid resolved the next two needs. Around that a fair amount of resources to ensure security and a well-maintained van, plus a collection of consumer items to enjoy life surrounded the idea. So I did it and have come to realize that I've traded one complicated life for another complicated life.
The complications are smaller, but they exist nonetheless. You still have to locate resources for showers, water, and food. You still have to plan for cooling and for heating your vehicle for comfort. You even have to look for a private and secure place to sleep. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but you have traded one set of survival complications for another. But the total cost of living out of a van versus paying rent and utilities is far lower. You aren't going to be maintaining a large job and a large lifestyle.
For a while there I made jewelry and sold it on Ebay for living expenses and I know I can do that again, but now I just focus on writing and selling software components as well as working on remote software contracts. With a small laptop, and inverter, and a broadband connection card it is possible to continue making a living while not maintaining a permanent dwelling.
However, I did go ahead and buy a used trailer for a small sum of money in order to have an official address and a permanent place to leave my favorite cat sometimes. She is ok living out of the van but tended to limit my travel a bit.
I just finished a large software project to integrate a DVR and for now I'll just give my brain a break and contemplate this new lifestyle later.
That involved downsizing my vast quantity of consumer stuff and rethinking how I'd manage the daily tasks of life. My dream starts with waking up when I feel like it and having tea and a long read before getting up and about. That meant having a comfortable place to sleep, a place to potty in private, and a way to heat water for tea. That was resolved with a 2000 Dodge Ram Van with an extended body and lots of room for a bed platform, storage, and room to move around. A trucker's 12 volt hot pot for water, and a small portable pot with a toilet seat and lid resolved the next two needs. Around that a fair amount of resources to ensure security and a well-maintained van, plus a collection of consumer items to enjoy life surrounded the idea. So I did it and have come to realize that I've traded one complicated life for another complicated life.
The complications are smaller, but they exist nonetheless. You still have to locate resources for showers, water, and food. You still have to plan for cooling and for heating your vehicle for comfort. You even have to look for a private and secure place to sleep. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but you have traded one set of survival complications for another. But the total cost of living out of a van versus paying rent and utilities is far lower. You aren't going to be maintaining a large job and a large lifestyle.
For a while there I made jewelry and sold it on Ebay for living expenses and I know I can do that again, but now I just focus on writing and selling software components as well as working on remote software contracts. With a small laptop, and inverter, and a broadband connection card it is possible to continue making a living while not maintaining a permanent dwelling.
However, I did go ahead and buy a used trailer for a small sum of money in order to have an official address and a permanent place to leave my favorite cat sometimes. She is ok living out of the van but tended to limit my travel a bit.
I just finished a large software project to integrate a DVR and for now I'll just give my brain a break and contemplate this new lifestyle later.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Cole Slaw With Ginger Dressing
My favorite cold meal on a hot, humid day is a fresh cole slaw slathered with a tangy orange ginger dressing. I don't measure but try to keep the proportions, and load it up with ginger and garlic. The next key ingredient is frozen orange juice concentrate. But half-way through the mixing I discovered that I was using grapefruit juice. Talk about a gnarly taste, I had to break down and add some turbinado (a raw cane sugar product). After some doctoring with rice wine, onion powder and salt it turned out pretty good. After marinading the green and red cabbage for an hour I started eating it topped with sunflower seeds. A very nutritious, tasty, and CHEAP vegan meal. When I'm energetic, I add shredded carrots and whatever else may be on sale.
If you ever eat in a good Japanese style restaurant and order the salad with ginger dressing it is usually made with an orange juice base. But I've had a hard time finding a recipe that replicates my favorite. So I've got a Word document with over a hundred recipes that I'm trying. Back in Pennsylvania I would buy the dressing from my favorite restaurant, but out here in the boondock of Rolla, Missouri the options are slimmer.
Another problem I'm trying to solve is finding a better way to process the ginger and garlic. I left my garlic press somewhere and I miss it. So I've acquired a couple of gadgets to try out. Ginger is the hardest to process because it is so stringy. I end up cutting thin slices, then making tiny julienne strips to make a tiny dice. But I wish there was an electronic gadget that would take the ginger and the garlic and grate or mince them together. Believe me, I looked. My requirements are that the gadget has to be worth packing in my van as well as be very easy to clean. I found a small mandoline that is made handle garlic, and should work with ginger. It has a device to hold the object to be shredded, to protect the hand.
Which is a good topic for vanpacking, the kinds of kitchen items you should carry in order to eat healthy on a budget. My strategy includes a small cutting board and a few good knives, at the minimum. I only need one board because I don't use them for meat.
If you ever eat in a good Japanese style restaurant and order the salad with ginger dressing it is usually made with an orange juice base. But I've had a hard time finding a recipe that replicates my favorite. So I've got a Word document with over a hundred recipes that I'm trying. Back in Pennsylvania I would buy the dressing from my favorite restaurant, but out here in the boondock of Rolla, Missouri the options are slimmer.
Another problem I'm trying to solve is finding a better way to process the ginger and garlic. I left my garlic press somewhere and I miss it. So I've acquired a couple of gadgets to try out. Ginger is the hardest to process because it is so stringy. I end up cutting thin slices, then making tiny julienne strips to make a tiny dice. But I wish there was an electronic gadget that would take the ginger and the garlic and grate or mince them together. Believe me, I looked. My requirements are that the gadget has to be worth packing in my van as well as be very easy to clean. I found a small mandoline that is made handle garlic, and should work with ginger. It has a device to hold the object to be shredded, to protect the hand.
Which is a good topic for vanpacking, the kinds of kitchen items you should carry in order to eat healthy on a budget. My strategy includes a small cutting board and a few good knives, at the minimum. I only need one board because I don't use them for meat.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Processing
I think I got it now. I took two weeks off of the software project from hell and got some things accomplished, including a vacation and handling personal goals. I paid $2500 cash for a very small but well laid out and well maintained mobile home on a permanent site, with a lot rent of $95 a month. The utilities are about $35-100 a month depending upon the season. The owner of the mobile home park is getting out of the rental market, so it was a matter of timing. The outside isn't pretty, but the view from inside is spectacular. It is next door to the $2000 trailer my oldest friend obtained, so this makes a great permanent address for less than $200 a month, in a quiet community.
With the van paid for and well maintained, and my lifestyle suitably downsized, I'm ready to tackle my own plans for writing and traveling, living out of the van. It's time.
With the van paid for and well maintained, and my lifestyle suitably downsized, I'm ready to tackle my own plans for writing and traveling, living out of the van. It's time.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Plans within plans within plans
Life is what happens to you while you are making other plans, so I'm layering my plans. If one pans out, I'll ride it out, otherwise it's on to plans b and c and d.
This software gig is about to kill me. I'm not young enough to carry on much longer. I have trouble focusing and concentrating. Working for days on end, without a break or a life is not what I signed up for. Really! I've been 9 days in a hotel room trying to get finished with this blasted project.
The money is good, but with the accident case settled, I need to rethink my life and my plans. The van is ready for mobile dwelling and I think I am ready, too. I've set up a website and have plans to lanch my "brand" onto the world. The world is ready for it, what with the economy tanking and prices going up. The message of simplicity is coming.
This software gig is about to kill me. I'm not young enough to carry on much longer. I have trouble focusing and concentrating. Working for days on end, without a break or a life is not what I signed up for. Really! I've been 9 days in a hotel room trying to get finished with this blasted project.
The money is good, but with the accident case settled, I need to rethink my life and my plans. The van is ready for mobile dwelling and I think I am ready, too. I've set up a website and have plans to lanch my "brand" onto the world. The world is ready for it, what with the economy tanking and prices going up. The message of simplicity is coming.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Survivalisting
Here I sit at my current software gig, somewhere in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. My kids could explain that to you, since they graduated from Pennsylvania schools, the fine distinction between a Commonwealth and a State. In any case, I'm working late and am taking a mental health break to surf the web. I'm in survival planning mode, which is no surprise. As a child of the 50's who grew up on Florida, I carry the utlimate atomic bomb shelter in my head at all times. Posted in the corridors of my childhood schools were detailed lists of everything you should do in the event of a nuclear attack: stay away from windows, hide under your overturned desk, close your eyes, clasp your arms around your knees, and kiss your ass goodbye--seriously!
So this peak oil thing is nothing new to me. I'm down with what they predict, though for different reasons. First, the production of oil that we can get at easily is being artificially kept low. The reasons would be to facilitate the continual rape and pillaging of our willing purses, in which we are so cooperatative. The second would be the sword that defeats our rapacious democracy from the inside. We are willing victims. Even after 9/11 people still continued to patronize the storefronts of the world at the expense of our own.
My grandparents who survived the depression always taught us to keep a year's worth of food in storage, and to stay out of debt, and to have a paid for piece of land. So I've always been prepared for anything, all my life. But I've spent the years since Y2K figuring out an ultimate survival plan that takes into account the realities we will face.
It is a great idea to own land, but land and resources can be seized and taken, by the government, or by the hordes. There is no guarantee you will be able to defend against the gangs and hordes of suffering humanity. If our government implodes and society breaks down, then no amount of land will save you. You will be easily identified as the easiest pickings, and the first to go. Unless you are well hidden and have formed a group with likeminded family groups.
I don't have that luxury, and I intend to be well beyond the hordes and gangs. My strategy is to live out of my van. I expect to be able to make at least 600 miles in the van, in an attempt to flee the urban and suburban area ahead of the hordes. I'll take the pulse of the city and be well away before any government entity announces an evacuation, or the hungry reach critical mass.
Once I'm 600 miles away, I expect to be able to wait things out in a camping mode. I could stay in the van indefinitely, depending upon the mood of the crisis. If things go badly while camping, my mountain bike is outfitted with panniers and a rack, upon which I can carry everything needed to ensure survival as I go deeper into the wilderness areas. After the bike is no longer useful, my backpack contains enough to sustain me as long as I can find water and wild edibles. My dehydrated food collection was designed to sustain me without wild edibles or other food sources for at least three months of hard-scrabbled rationing, if necessary.
I think that being mobile and hostile is the best strategy. I do not see any need to invest all my resources into a place that I may not be able to keep.
On another note, this may on the surface not be a completely "popular" thought, but the the concept that our economy and our collective American "lifestyle" was never really sustainable seems to be ignored by the Peak Oil survivalists. The Nouveau Survivalists. Most will not see it, and many who do see it still do nothing about it:
"The Population Reference Bureau estimates that the average American consumes about 23 times more goods and services than the average world citizen. Americans also bum 10,000 liters (2600 gallons) of oil-equivalents per year —seven times the world average. Clearly, achieving a US standard of living is impossible for the rest of the world, based both on projections of future resource availability and on population growth. The affluent standard of living now enjoyed by Americans (made possible by our abundant supplies of fertile cropland, water and fossil energy) is projected to decline if the US population doubles during the next 63 years." http://www.mnforsustain.org/pimentel_d_natural_resources_and_optimum_population.htm
That doesn't mean that I don't understand the Peak Oil whinging and the pain that the forced realization of these home truths cause in average Americans who believe the lie, that they are somehow more deserving of the world's resources than the people whose resources we steal. My survivalist planning isn't about the problems exposed by Peak Oil. My planning is to save me and mine from the ill-prepared, starving, raging, marauding hordes. My kind will always survive YOU. I have no illusions about the coming reboot of human civilization. See, we are all survivalists--even the foreigners who inflate the oil prices--they are trying to survive YOU.
Don't take this personally. Understand what is really going on. And, of course, SURVIVE!
So this peak oil thing is nothing new to me. I'm down with what they predict, though for different reasons. First, the production of oil that we can get at easily is being artificially kept low. The reasons would be to facilitate the continual rape and pillaging of our willing purses, in which we are so cooperatative. The second would be the sword that defeats our rapacious democracy from the inside. We are willing victims. Even after 9/11 people still continued to patronize the storefronts of the world at the expense of our own.
My grandparents who survived the depression always taught us to keep a year's worth of food in storage, and to stay out of debt, and to have a paid for piece of land. So I've always been prepared for anything, all my life. But I've spent the years since Y2K figuring out an ultimate survival plan that takes into account the realities we will face.
It is a great idea to own land, but land and resources can be seized and taken, by the government, or by the hordes. There is no guarantee you will be able to defend against the gangs and hordes of suffering humanity. If our government implodes and society breaks down, then no amount of land will save you. You will be easily identified as the easiest pickings, and the first to go. Unless you are well hidden and have formed a group with likeminded family groups.
I don't have that luxury, and I intend to be well beyond the hordes and gangs. My strategy is to live out of my van. I expect to be able to make at least 600 miles in the van, in an attempt to flee the urban and suburban area ahead of the hordes. I'll take the pulse of the city and be well away before any government entity announces an evacuation, or the hungry reach critical mass.
Once I'm 600 miles away, I expect to be able to wait things out in a camping mode. I could stay in the van indefinitely, depending upon the mood of the crisis. If things go badly while camping, my mountain bike is outfitted with panniers and a rack, upon which I can carry everything needed to ensure survival as I go deeper into the wilderness areas. After the bike is no longer useful, my backpack contains enough to sustain me as long as I can find water and wild edibles. My dehydrated food collection was designed to sustain me without wild edibles or other food sources for at least three months of hard-scrabbled rationing, if necessary.
I think that being mobile and hostile is the best strategy. I do not see any need to invest all my resources into a place that I may not be able to keep.
On another note, this may on the surface not be a completely "popular" thought, but the the concept that our economy and our collective American "lifestyle" was never really sustainable seems to be ignored by the Peak Oil survivalists. The Nouveau Survivalists. Most will not see it, and many who do see it still do nothing about it:
"The Population Reference Bureau estimates that the average American consumes about 23 times more goods and services than the average world citizen. Americans also bum 10,000 liters (2600 gallons) of oil-equivalents per year —seven times the world average. Clearly, achieving a US standard of living is impossible for the rest of the world, based both on projections of future resource availability and on population growth. The affluent standard of living now enjoyed by Americans (made possible by our abundant supplies of fertile cropland, water and fossil energy) is projected to decline if the US population doubles during the next 63 years." http://www.mnforsustain.org/pimentel_d_natural_resources_and_optimum_population.htm
That doesn't mean that I don't understand the Peak Oil whinging and the pain that the forced realization of these home truths cause in average Americans who believe the lie, that they are somehow more deserving of the world's resources than the people whose resources we steal. My survivalist planning isn't about the problems exposed by Peak Oil. My planning is to save me and mine from the ill-prepared, starving, raging, marauding hordes. My kind will always survive YOU. I have no illusions about the coming reboot of human civilization. See, we are all survivalists--even the foreigners who inflate the oil prices--they are trying to survive YOU.
Don't take this personally. Understand what is really going on. And, of course, SURVIVE!
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