Month: December 2023

Visiting Weeks Bay Pitcher Plant Bog in Foley, Alabama

December 7, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

I did not know what a pitcher plant was before today. Pitcher plants are carnivorous insect-eating plants with flowers shaped like pitchers. The only insect-eating plants I have ever seen or known of previously are Venus Flytraps. We used to have these when we were kids. I loved watching a fly get trapped and closed inside the plant. Is that so horrible?

White-topped pitcher plants such as the ones in the photo above and below have a small pool of water in the bottom of the leaf stalk or pitcher.

Insects are forced down into the water by stiff angled hairs inside the pitcher. Bacteria in the water then decompose them so the plant can absorb the nutrients from the dead insect.

The Weeks Bay Pitcher Plant Bog and Kurt G. Wintermeyer Nature Trail is a nature preserve that offers visitors an easy boardwalk for a peaceful walk through a wooded bog back to the water of Weeks Bay. It was windy and chilly, but a beautiful day for a walk through the woods.

I was hoping to find more butterflies or birds as we walked through the woods. Migratory birds are often found here, and butterflies are attracted to the many flowers, but not today. The only life we saw was a few dragonflies.

Most of the plant species found in these bogs are rare. White-topped pitcher plants and purple pitcher plant

s are common here. I would love to come back in the spring when they are blooming and everything is coming alive.

Pitcher plant bogs are an exceptional ecosystem. The soil is nutrient-poor and moist. Only these special unique types of plants can flourish here. The bog is also dependent on regular forest fires to prevent shrubby vegetation from overtaking the area and drying up the moist soil.

Pitcher plant bogs are an endangered habitat. Rural development, fire suppression, and draining the flooded areas is threatening the bogs. Other rare plants such as orange milkworts, bog buttons, toothache grass, yellow-eyed grass, sundews, and white-topped sedges are also in danger.

Bog habitats are quickly disappearing throughout the country. More than ninety percent of bog acreage along the Gulf Coast has already been destroyed or severely damaged. This makes the Weeks Bay Pitcher Plant Bog rare and more valuable with each passing day.

Thanks for coming along on our travel adventures. Have you ever seen a Pitcher Plant Bog?

How We Successfully Live in an RV Full-time With A Spouse

December 6, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

And don’t kill each other!

Living in a small RV space with a spouse can be a rewarding experience, but it can be frustrating at times and requires some adjustments and compromises. The following tips have worked for us.

1 Share the recliner. We only have one recliner in our RV and we both like sitting there so we can put our feet up and face the TV. We do have a footstool in front of the couch but you still have to turn your head sideways to see the television.

2 Allow each other to have their indulgences. Rich smokes cigarettes and drinks Diet Mountain Dew. His vices could be a lot worse so I try not to say too much. I don’t have any vices that I need daily so he just has to remember that sometimes when I want a treat I am owed it.

3 Be polite by always saying excuse me, please, thank you, and you’re welcome. It is a small living area and our burps, farts, and other bodily functions are bound to cause some stink. There are times when we get on each other’s nerves and that is when Rich goes for a walk around the campground and smokes a cigarette. Be patient, understanding, and willing to forgive.

4 Share the television. Listen to each other’s music and watch each other’s favorite shows. Rich and I like a lot of the same things but sometimes he wants to watch a fishing show or a car show. And sometimes I want to watch a good romantic comedy or a Christmas movie.

5 Share the chores. Take turns doing the dishes, the sweeping, and go to the laundromat together. When my knee was hurt I couldn’t walk to the laundromat with Rich and after a few weeks, I could tell he didn’t like having to go alone all the time.

Rich and I have done extremely well living in a small RV for the last two years. We wouldn’t trade this time we are spending together for anything. We haven’t killed each other yet and have no plans to go back to a house anytime soon.

 

A White Sand Christmas in Alabama

December 5, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

It’s going to be a beachy holiday!

The soft, powdery white sand of the beaches of Alabama is the same color and texture as snow. Both are light and fluffy, and they create a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. This visual similarity evokes feelings of winter holidays when snow blankets the ground and brings a sense of cozy warmth.

White sand and snow are both bright, gleaming whites that resemble purity and serenity. When you look at a white sandy beach, it can be hard to distinguish it from a snowy landscape, especially when the sun is shining and reflecting off the surface.

The pristine whiteness of the sand, untouched by the hustle and bustle of everyday life brings to mind the look of untouched freshly fallen snow of the northern states. It’s beautiful to experience.

Both snow and white sand are associated with festive seasons. Snow is a common sight during the winter holidays, while white sand is often associated with summer vacations and beach getaways. These similarities remind us of happy times spent with loved ones.

The gentle lapping of the waves against the shore creates a rhythmic sound like the wind blowing and snowflakes falling, further enhancing the connection between the beach and the snow at Christmastime. The warm yet chilly, salty air reminds us of the crisp, cold air that often accompanies snowfall.

The overall ambiance of a white sandy beach, with its relaxed atmosphere, and seagulls soaring overhead, creates a sense of holiday nostalgia similar to the cozy atmosphere of a winter cabin surrounded by snowdrifts.

White snow is not a common sight in Alabama, but the white sand of its beaches conjures up similar feelings of holiday cheer and warmth, reminding us of the beauty and tranquility of winter landscapes.

The contrast between the white sand and the turquoise waters creates a picturesque scene that is refreshing and inviting, making it a fitting place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the spirit of the holidays.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from the white sandy beaches of southern Alabama.

Severe Thunderstorms Welcomed Us To Southern Alabama

December 2, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

As well as some pretty severe lightning.

We drove five hours south to Alabama Coast Campground just 8 miles north of Orange Beach and settled in for another month (or two).

We were smart enough to arrive here one day early because of the storms coming in. We got ourselves all settled in and decorated for Christmas before the rain came.

We are loving this campground. The facilities are simple but nice. And the people have been so welcoming. I love the feeling of community.

We had one nice day and a relaxing evening with just a few light rains before the big storms hit today.

The lightning hit so close this morning that I jumped and spilled my coffee.

I am content to sit here with the windows and door open enjoying the warmth while drinking my morning coffee and listening to the storms.

Stay tuned for the adventures.

Thanks for reading.

 

10 Reasons Why Living in an RV Fulltime is the Right Choice For Us

November 30, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

And it could be the right choice for you too.

Our days are joyful with laughter and dance!

Embracing full-time RV living can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, offering a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and simplicity. Here are ten reasons why living in an RV full-time has been the right choice for us.

1 We have completely embraced a minimalist lifestyle. Moving into an RV caused us to downsize extensively and live with fewer possessions, which has promoted a simpler and more intentional way of life. It has taught us that all of that stuff didn’t matter after all. Moving into the RV helped us strip away the distractions and clutter of modern life, allowing us to focus on what truly matters — relationships, experiences, and personal growth.

2 By selling the house and everything we owned, we were given more financial freedom and flexibility. RV living has been more affordable than traditional housing because we no longer have expenses like property taxes, electric bills, water and sewer bills, and home maintenance costs. This has freed up financial resources for travel, experiences, and personal goals. Although we have had some expensive repairs on the motorhome.

3 We have unleashed our inner adventurer. Full-time RVing has given us the chance to explore many new places and experience the beauty of the country firsthand. We have the freedom to travel whenever and wherever the mood strikes. Each month we talk about where we might want to go next.

4 We have escaped the monotony of routine daily life. Breaking free from the daily grind and embracing a life of spontaneity allows each day the opportunity to bring new adventures, encounters, and discoveries.

5 We have strengthened family bonds and created cherished memories by living in our daughter’s backyard and having the freedom to travel to wherever our oldest son lives. Plus, spending quality time with Rich in a close-knit environment, surrounded by nature’s wonders has improved our relationship. We are creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

6 We are pursuing our passions, interests, and dreams. With a more flexible lifestyle, we have ample time to dedicate to activities that bring us joy. Rich has more time to fish and I have more time to write and take pictures. We wake up to stunning views, enjoy outdoor activities, and immerse ourselves in the tranquility of nature.

7 Connecting with a community of like-minded individuals has given us new friends. Joining a thriving network of full-time RVers who share our passion for travel, adventure, and minimalism has brought new people into our lives that living in a house could never do.

8 We have embraced a more sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle. By minimizing our environmental impact such as living with less, utilizing RV parks with eco-friendly practices, and exploring sustainable travel options, we are making a difference in the world. We have embraced the simplicity of RV living and are savoring the richness of life on the road.

9 Living in an RV full-time has helped us with personal growth and self-discovery. We have both stepped outside of our comfort zones, challenged ourselves, and discovered new facets of our personalities and strengths.

10 Living a life of freedom and authenticity has helped us break free from societal expectations. Pursuing a lifestyle that aligns with our values, passions, and dreams has made us happier humans. We have learned to adapt to new environments, embrace challenges with resilience, and develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Moving into the RV and embarking on the journey of self-discovery has been the best decision we ever made for ourselves.

 

Tips For Making Your RV Feel Like Home

November 26, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

Home is wherever you lay your head to sleep.

Transforming our RV into a cozy and inviting home on wheels didn’t require extensive renovations or expensive decorations. With a few simple touches and personalization, I created a comfortable and inviting space that reflects our unique style and makes us feel at home wherever our travels take us.

One time in the state of Washington the neighbors wanted to see the inside of our motorhome. As soon as the wife came in she commented on how cozy it felt. She noticed the family pictures on the walls and she saw my hand crocheted blankets on the back of the couch and chair.

A few days later we were invited to see the inside of their RV. I noticed how all of those personal touches were missing. No wonder she didn’t feel at home on the road.

Here are some tips to help you make your RV feel like home.

Hang artwork and photos

I have decorated the RV walls with meaningful artwork, family photos, and sometimes travel souvenirs, which add a touch of personality and create a sense of familiarity.

I have even taped drawings from the grandkids on the refrigerator door.

Add throw pillows and blankets

I layer the seating areas with plush throw pillows and blankets to enhance comfort and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

I have crocheted my own to match the color scheme in the RV.

Incorporate greenery

I love plants and had several when we lived in a house. Bringing the outdoors in by adding plants and flowers to the RV improves my mood. Sometimes when we set up for a month I will buy some of those cheap flowers at Walmart for the kitchen table.

Choosing low-maintenance varieties that can withstand movement is best. I still want to get a cactus or two. Providing a touch of nature to the living space enhances the area and gives it a homey feel.

Currently, I have just one live plant on the kitchen counter by the window.

Enhance the lighting

Replace the harsh overhead lights with softer and more ambient lighting options, such as dimmable bulbs, string lights, or table lamps.

I don’t like bright overhead lights but they are there if we need them. I feel more cozy with softer bulbs and lamps on.

Utilize natural light

I maximize natural light by opening windows and curtains during the day. It brightens up the RV and creates a more spacious feel. Daylight is important for us, especially during the short winter days.

Create a cozy bedroom

We upgraded the bedding by investing in a better-quality mattress that was comfortable. Sleep is important. I purchased some new bedding, including pillows, sheets, and a comforter I liked that matched the RV colors.

Adding personal touches with things like bedside lamps on our side areas, pictures of the grandkids, and a cozy throw blanket at the bottom of the bed makes the bedroom feel like home.

Optimize the storage

We utilize every inch of space. In the old RV, we took advantage of vertical space by installing shelves, hanging organizers, and using over-the-door storage solutions.

We implement storage containers, baskets, and drawer dividers to keep things organized and prevent clutter from overwhelming the limited space we have.

When we lived in the smaller RV we had to be more creative with space, but this newer one has plenty of room so far.

Incorporate scents

I use essential oils in a diffuser in the bathroom and burn scented candles in the living area. It creates a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere in our RV. Now at the holidays, I enjoy cinnamon and pine scents. In the warmer months, I like fruit scents like cherry and ocean scents.

Keep it fresh

We regularly air out the RV by opening windows as much as possible and use natural air fresheners to eliminate musty smells and maintain a fresh and clean environment.

Add rugs and floor coverings

We have laid down throw rugs to add warmth, texture, and visual interest to the floor. These are easy to throw in a washer.

Remember, making your RV feel like home is an ongoing process that involves personalizing the space to reflect your unique style and preferences.

I hope you embrace the journey and enjoy the process of creating a comfortable and inviting home on wheels.

Just like we have.

Thanks for reading.

The Guntersville Dam Armadillo

November 25, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

My Little Armored One

I couldn’t begin to count how many dead armadillos we have seen on the roads across America. They are usually small ones too.

Every once in a while, Rich will holler “armadillo” as we are driving 70 miles per hour down a highway. I always tell him to stop or turn around and go back to no avail.

I had never seen a live armadillo in the wild before and it is one of those stupid bucket list things – until today.

Today we drove to the Guntersville Dam on Guntersville Lake in Alabama. I wanted to see the Locks and spend a little time at the scenic overlook.

It was a gorgeous sunny day and the view was amazing. I packed us a picnic lunch and off we went.

According to the encyclopedia — The Guntersville dam generates 140,400 kilowatts of electricity with four hydraulic turbines and four generators. It stands 94 feet high and 3,979 feet wide. Water below the dam averages 20 to 30 feet deep.

After relaxing for a while, eating lunch, and watching the boats and birds, we got in the car to leave the dam and drive to the next scenic spot.

I spotted an animal in the yard on the side of the road to the left and hollered “Stop! That’s an armadillo!”

I think I opened my car door before the vehicle was completely stopped and jumped out. It was not just an armadillo; it was a huge armadillo.

The nine-banded armadillo is the only species found in the United States. These armadillos can be found in the southeastern United States, including Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Alabama, and Florida.

I took a lot of pictures and videos. I can now add armadillo to the list of animals I have seen alive in the wild and cross it off the bucket list. It was fun to watch it root around in the ground for bugs and insects. You can even count the nine bands in the photo above.

Did you know that I wrote a children’s book about armadillos? Specifically about one named Amelia.

Have you ever seen a live nine-banded armadillo in the wild?

Thanks for reading.

*all photos are taken by me unless otherwise noted.

 

Learning to Trust the GPS

November 23, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

I remember when there was no such thing as GPS or cell phones. We traveled with an atlas book in the car. We got lost a lot more often back then, but we get lost sometimes now too.

GPS was invented in 1973. The Global Positioning System, formally known as the Navstar Global Positioning System, was initiated as a joint civil/military technical program in 1973. It didn’t become available to the public until 1983 and that was only for air travel. President Ronald Reagan authorized the use of GPS by civilian commercial airlines in an attempt to improve navigation and safety for air travel.

The first production car with a built-in GPS navigation system hit the roads in 1990. By that time we were married with two young children. And there was no way we could afford one of those expensive cars with a GPS system in it.

So how accurate is the GPS system nowadays?

According to gps.gov, it depends.

GPS satellites broadcast their signals in space with a certain accuracy, but what you receive depends on additional factors, including satellite geometry, signal blockage, atmospheric conditions, and receiver design features/quality.

As we travel around the country in areas we are not familiar with, we cause ourselves to be dependent on it to get us to where we want to go. More often than not, we wonder why it takes us down a certain back road instead of keeping us on the highway. Sometimes it will bring us to the back door of a business where the shipments are received instead of to the front door where customers are allowed to walk in.

Sometimes we tell the GPS to take us the fastest route, and sometimes we tell it to take us the shortest distance. But it never fails that occasionally we will look at each other and laugh about the road it turns us on.

I have told Rich more than once to just trust the GPS and no matter where it makes us turn, we will always get to the final destination, or at least close enough to figure it out. The journey is the best part, and if we just trust the GPS we will see something we wouldn’t have normally seen if we had chosen to stay on the highway.

What else do we have to do anyway? We have all the time in the world and getting lost once in a while is the best part of the journey.

By the way, we do still keep an atlas in the RV, just in case.

Thanks for stopping by.

I Haven’t Been Everywhere, But It’s On My List

November 22, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

Seeing America one place at a time

The journey is as important as the destination.

I’ve been fortunate enough to explore many of America’s iconic landmarks, national parks, and beautiful beaches, but I’m constantly reminded that there’s so much more still to see and discover. There are so many countless destinations beckoning me to explore them, and I have such a desire to embark on new adventures. The vastness, diversity, and rich history of America have always intrigued me.

This is a country of immigrants. People from all over the world have come to America in search of a better life.

I love visiting historical sites and learning about the people and events of the past that have shaped this country.

My bucket list for exploring America is overflowing with unvisited places, each promising its own unique experience. And the allure of these destinations fuels my wanderlust, urging me to explore the uncharted territories of this extraordinary land I call home.

All who wander are not lost

I’m not lost, I’m just retired.

Exploring America is not merely about ticking off destinations; it’s about embracing the journey and connecting with the people who call America home. It’s about venturing off the beaten path and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

America is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the lush rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, there is something for everyone to enjoy. I’ve been lucky enough to visit many of these beautiful places, and I’m always amazed by the beauty of the natural world.

As I embark on my journey through the United States, I carry with me the anticipation of new experiences and the excitement of the unknown. I’m eager to uncover the hidden gems that lie within this vast and diverse country, to connect with its people and their stories, and to create memories that will forever be etched in my heart.

A never-ending adventure

I know that I will never be able to see everything that America has to offer, but it’s on my list and I’m excited to continue my journey of exploration.

America is a country of endless possibilities and I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore this amazing country. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Thanks for reading.

 

Welcome To Our Campsite

November 22, 2023 – Traveling with Rich & Julie

It always feels more like home when we set up our stuff outside and put the yard flags up.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling into a new campground, unhitching the car from the RV, and setting up our new home for the next month.

The excitement builds as we pull into a new place. The anticipation of exploring new surroundings, the excitement of creating new memories, and the satisfaction of transforming an empty lot space into a haven of comfort and relaxation — it’s truly a unique experience.

For us, setting up our RV has become more than just a practical task; it’s an act of love and a way of making each new place feel like our own. It’s a testament to our adventurous spirit and our deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.

RV camping is more than just a way to see the world; it’s a way of life for us, a philosophy that embraces change, celebrates diversity, and cherishes moments of connection with both nature and new friends. It’s a reminder that home is not a place, but a feeling, a sense of belonging that we carry within us, ready to bloom wherever we lay our heads.

Thanks for coming along with us on the journey