Today was a beautiful warm day in Foley, Alabama. The temperature was 79 and humid. We turned on the air conditioning for the first time this month.
We stayed home today for the most part and relaxed outside. We are parked at Alabama Coast Campground and as of now plan to stay put until the end of January.
We played a few games of Sequence this afternoon. It has become one of our favorite games. We have quite the competition and always play at least the best out of five games. And I painted my fingernails a pretty coral green.
The neighbors across the way put up some Christmas decorations today. It was fun watching him put the Santa up.
We left home at 4:00 pm and headed to the Portage Creek Canal and parked the car on E. Canal Drive with tons of other vehicles to watch the annual Christmas Boat Parade.
With a perfect view of the canal, we set up the lawn chairs and relaxed until dusk. The boat parade begins at Lulu’s Gulf Shores and ends at The Wharf in Orange Beach.
The neighbors sitting beside us were extremely nice and conversational. We visited with them and listened to Christmas music together. They informed us that there will be fireworks on the beach on New Year’s Eve.
The first Christmas boat parade we ever saw was last year in Florida. Having lived in Ohio our whole lives we didn’t know there was such a thing.
Fog started to roll in just around dusk as the parade started due to the warm temperature of the air and colder water temperatures.
It was a wonderful parade with a lot of fun decorated boats playing loud Christmas songs. The boats here were much larger than the ones we saw last year in Florida.
We were back home by 6:00 pm and it was already dark. We aren’t allowed to have fires here, mostly due to the statewide burn ban. It would have been a nice night to sit outside around a fire.
Thanks for traveling with us and reading about our adventures. I hope you had an enjoyable day today like we did.
You don’t have to miss out on the winter holidays just because you live in an RV full-time and travel south to warmer weather. There are many creative ways you can spread Christmas cheer and feel cozy at home while on the road. Here are ten ways we have found to spread holiday cheer while living in our RV.
1 Place a huge Christmas wreath on the windshield
Most RVs boast huge spacious windshields, providing an ideal canvas for showcasing your holiday spirit. A vibrant and cheerful holiday wreath will serve as a warm welcome to guests and passersby, instantly infusing your RV with the essence of the season. Craft stores offer an extensive selection of wreaths to suit every taste and style. From classic evergreen wreaths to more contemporary designs featuring twinkling lights and intricate ornaments, you’re sure to find the perfect wreath to complement your RV’s exterior.
For those seeking a more hands-on approach, embarking on a DIY wreath-making project offers an opportunity to unleash creativity and personalize your RV’s holiday décor. You can gather an assortment of natural materials like fragrant pinecones, glistening berries, and colorful bows, and let your imagination guide you as you weave them together to create a unique and cherished wreath. Whether you opt for store-bought convenience or embrace the DIY spirit, hanging a festive wreath on your RV’s front windshield is a simple way to spread holiday cheer and transform your mobile abode into a beacon of warmth and welcoming spirit.
2 Hang an additional wreath on the RV door
Extend the festive cheer to your RV’s entryway by adorning the door with an additional wreath, adding another layer of warmth and welcoming spirit to your mobile abode. Wreaths specifically crafted for RV doors offer a convenient and secure solution, ensuring that your holiday decoration remains in place even during blustery winds. These specialized wreaths often feature sturdy wire frames and durable attachments that can withstand the rigors of RV travel.
Alternatively, you can breathe new life into a traditional wreath by adapting it for use on your RV door. Employ suction cups or wreath hangers designed for exterior surfaces to affix the wreath securely to the door, transforming it into a charming focal point that will greet guests with festive cheer. Whether you choose a specialized RV door wreath or adapt a traditional wreath using suction cups or hangers, the addition of this item will undoubtedly enhance your RV’s curb appeal and spread holiday cheer throughout your campsite and the entire campground.
3 Hang strings of Christmas lights inside and out
Transform your RV into a mesmerizing spectacle of light and color by draping strings of twinkling lights both inside and outside your RV.
Indoors, you can let the warm glow of string lights illuminate your RV’s interior, casting a cozy and inviting ambiance. Most RV slides feature a convenient lip around the edge providing an ideal perch for string lights to gracefully cascade down. Draping the lights along the slide’s edge creates a harmonious blend of festive cheer. You can even wrap string lights and garland together to hang them on the slides.
Next, venture outdoors and continue the enchanting display of lights by strategically placing them around your RV’s exterior. Let the lights trace the RV’s awning, or slides, outlining the shape with a luminous embrace. Or playfully trail the lights along the ground, creating a mesmerizing pathway that guides guests to your RV’s entrance. For an extra touch of creativity, consider wrapping strings of lights around the trunk of a nearby tree and up the lower branches. As the lights intertwine with the tree’s branches, they’ll transform the foliage into a shimmering beacon of holiday cheer, adding a touch of magic to your campsite.
You can select from a captivating array of light options to suit your festive preferences. Multi-colored lights offer a vibrant and playful touch, while white lights exude a classic and elegant glow. Alternatively, you can embrace a monochromatic theme by opting for strings of single-colored lights such as blue or red, adding a bold and impactful accent to your RV’s exterior.
4 Hang oversized Christmas ornaments outside
Transform your RV campsite into a captivating winter wonderland by adorning it with an array of oversized Christmas ornaments, suspended gracefully from the RV’s awning or nearby tree branches. These enchanting orbs, available in a myriad of designs, can be readily found at most department stores, offering a plethora of options to suit every taste and style. From classic glass bulbs to whimsical plastic round ornaments featuring playful characters and patterns, you’re sure to discover the perfect oversized designs to complement your RV’s exterior and infuse your campsite with holiday cheer.
Zip ties provide an ingenious and convenient solution for temporarily securing them to the awning. Their durable construction and simple application make them ideal for this task, ensuring that the ornaments remain securely in place. If placing them on nearby tree branches, select sturdy enough tree branches to ensure they can safely support the weight of the ornaments if they are heavy.
5 Use strands of Christmas garland
Transform your RV into a festive wonderland by adorning it with vibrant garlands. These decorative touches will infuse your RV with warmth and cheer, making it a cozy haven during the holidays or any special occasion. Drape garlands gracefully over windows, doorways, and cabinets, allowing their vibrant hues and intricate designs to enhance your RV’s interior.
Extend the festive spirit outdoors by wrapping garlands specifically made for the outdoors around the awning and along the exterior of your RV. Let the twinkling lights and cheerful ornaments interwoven within the garlands illuminate your RV, creating a mesmerizing display that will surely delight and captivate. With a touch of creativity and a dash of holiday spirit, you can transform your RV into a festive masterpiece that will bring joy to all who pass by.
6 Decorate a mini-Christmas tree
Put up a mini-Christmas tree inside. This is a fun way to add a festive touch to your RV. You can find small artificial trees at most stores as well as many types of mini ornaments. Even if you don’t have a lot of space in your RV, you can still enjoy the tradition of having a Christmas tree inside. If there is a window near the table, set it on the table and open the window for others to see the lights and enjoy your mini tree too.
7 Adorn the windows with Christmas window clings
Deck out your RV windows with an array of festive Christmas window clings. These delightful adornments, readily available at most retail stores, come in a captivating assortment of designs, featuring jolly Santas, playful snowmen, and prancing reindeer. The application process is delightfully simple and requires no special tools or adhesives. Simply peel each cling from its backing and gently press it onto your RV window. The static cling will securely adhere to the glass, allowing you to easily reposition or remove the clings as desired. With their effortless application and temporary nature, Christmas window clings are an ideal choice for adding a touch of holiday magic to your RV without any fuss or commitment.
8 Utilize holiday yard flags
Let your RV campsite radiate holiday cheer with a vibrant display of Christmas-themed yard flags. These cheerful banners, designed to withstand the elements and proudly proclaim your festive spirit, are an easy and fun way to enhance the curb appeal of your RV retreat. Yard flags offer a versatile and adaptable approach to seasonal decoration. With each holiday and season bringing its own unique charm, you can effortlessly swap out your yard flags to reflect the changing seasons and holidays.
From the whimsical charm of Easter bunnies and vibrant hues of spring to the splendor of fall foliage and the heartwarming glow of Christmas lights, your yard flags can seamlessly transition to match the spirit of the season. You can choose from classic designs featuring Santa Claus, reindeer, and snowmen, or opt for more modern interpretations that capture the essence of the holiday season. With a plethora of designs and sizes available, you’re sure to find the perfect yard flags to complement your RV’s exterior and spread holiday cheer throughout your campsite.
9 Use Christmas pillows, blankets, and knick-knacks
Decorate the inside of your RV with Christmas pillows and throws. These personal touches add comfort and style to your RV. You can find pillows and throws in a variety of Christmas designs, such as snowflakes, reindeer, and Santa Claus. This will make your RV cozy and inviting for the holidays. You can also set a few small decorations around if you have extra counter space.
10 Play Christmas music
Fill the air with Christmas music and let the joyful strains drift through your RV and beyond, inviting neighbors to share in the holiday spirit. You can open the windows if weather permits, to allow the harmonious notes to warm the hearts of all within earshot. Whether you prefer the timeless classics or embrace contemporary renditions, Christmas music can transport you to a realm of joy and anticipation, evoking cherished memories and igniting the holiday spirit within.
If you live in an RV full-time, I hope these ideas help you have a great Christmas season. Even though you may not have a traditional home, you can still make your RV feel festive and cozy for the holidays. With a little creativity, you can transform your RV into a winter wonderland that will be the envy of all your neighbors.
Thanks for reading. I hope you enjoy decorating your RV, camper, or motorhome this holiday season.
Exploring the Gulf Coast of Alabama and the Florida Panhandle is exciting. Not only have I been able to photograph the ocean and several water birds, but I have been seeing a lot of butterflies.
I’ve never seen this kind of butterfly before that I remember. The Gulf fritillary, also known as the passion butterfly, is quite common here.
I watched this pair for quite a while and took several photos.
Did you know that seeing a Gulf fritillary butterfly has spiritual significance for many cultures? It carries with it the spiritual significance of transformation and the resilience to overcome obstacles. It reminds us to have faith and focus on our dreams instead of our fears.
It is a beautiful creature with its bright orange color and black markings. I was mesmerized watching them flutter around.
The article above says that seeing this butterfly can be a sign from the universe urging us to welcome changes and evolve.
I wonder what the universe is trying to tell me.
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We also saw several monarchs in the same area feeding on the small white daisies. I wasn’t able to get a photo with his wings fully opened.
This beautiful orange and black butterfly symbolizes hope, rebirth, and transformation.
The Monarch is in trouble. Its population has dropped significantly in the past decade. There are many concerns about its future.
“The monarch butterfly is considered to be the king of butterflies and the most beautiful of all butterflies in the world,” says Cristina Panescu, spiritual healer and psychic.
The third species of butterfly we saw today is a Common (or Gray) Buckeye.
I am not a professional so I don’t know for sure if this is a plain common buckeye or a common gray buckeye. I think there is a difference. At first, I thought this was a moth.
Two separate ones were flying around together. The second one appears to be a little darker than the first one. But it could be the lighting. Once again I watched them for a long time. Thank goodness Rich is patient.
This butterfly is also associated with transformation as well as endurance.
In various cultures and spiritual beliefs, the butterfly, including the Buckeye, is considered a powerful symbol of metamorphosis and transition.
I feel a change or transition is in my future. I have seen several of these three butterflies in the past week. With the new year just around the corner, I wonder what 2024 is going to bring.
Stonehenge is a complex prehistoric stone structure located in Wiltshire, England. It was constructed between the years of 2000 and 3000 BCE. I have never been there but would love to see it in person someday. For now, I will have to be content with visiting a partial fiberglass replica in Alabama.
Today we drove through the town of Elberta and found the tourist attraction known as Bamahenge. Bamahenge is not a complete replica, but only a partial one. It has the same astrological alignment as the original in England, which means that on the first day of summer, one can stand in the center of the circle, looking easterly through the entrance, and see the sunrise.
There are no road signs, only a pull-off area on the side of the road and a trail back to the site. You will easily miss it if you are not looking for it. It might be made of fiberglass but it gives you a sense of what it would be like to see the original stone structure in England.
According to Wikipedia — Bamahenge is a full-scale fiberglass replica of England’s prehistoric Stonehenge monument, located on the grounds of Barber Marina near Josephine, Alabama. It was designed and built by artist Mark Cline, at the request of marina owner George W. Barber.
This is definitely one tourist attraction off the beaten path worth taking the time to visit.
Thanks for coming along with us on our sightseeing adventures.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
