It was quite chilly in the RV this morning when we woke up. The temperature dropped to 34 degrees overnight. Sometimes it seems like we just can’t go far enough south to get away from the cold weather anymore.
The sun is shining and there isn’t a cloud in the sky. I remember learning once that clouds at night act like a blanket and when the skies are clear it gets colder at night.
We went for a walk around the campground this morning and I took a picture of the Satsuma Orange tree by the pavilion. The sign says not to pick the oranges until February. We are only here until the end of January and you can bet I am going to pick at least two of them before we leave.
Our campground is near a small airport and nearly every day several small planes fly around in circles for hours. I can only think that these are students learning to fly and need to get in hours of flight time.
It gets annoying before it gets funny. Around and around and around they go. When they will stop nobody knows. We can’t quite figure out why they insist on just circling for several hours. Can’t they fly in a figure-eight or a straight line and then turn around and come back? Neither one of us has ever taken flying lessons so we wouldn’t know.
As we were walking we met some neighbors a few spots down who are also from Ohio. A small town not far from where we call home. No matter where we go we meet new people and make new friends.
(I took this photo the other day when there were some clouds in the sky.)
Then a 2017 diesel Newmar coach from Minnesota pulled in and we met them. Talking to them confirmed our contentment with an older RV. They went into debt to buy it and now wish they hadn’t. It is expensive to drive and he can’t work on it himself. He regrets buying new and going into debt.
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Have you ever seen chestnut brown pigeons? I hadn’t until today. Usually, pigeons look like the first two photos, but there was one brown one in the mix. He looked all fluffy and young but I searched Google Image and it said it is a pigeon. I believe it might be a Rock Pigeon instead of a normal domestic feral pigeon.
I am not sure though because it was the only one in the whole flock of pigeons. I just love driving around new areas and finding different birds and wildlife.
I made a large pot of what we call goulash for supper. It is simply ground beef and onion cooked. Then I add a few cups of beef broth, one can of diced tomatoes, and two cups of macaroni. Add some salt and pepper and let it cook until the macaroni is done.
We played some card games and Rich was a sore loser.
Other than that it was a pretty normal boring day at the RV. Thanks for traveling along with us. See you tomorrow.
Storms rolling through the area during the night were fierce. The bright lightning followed by loud thunder woke us both up around 2:00 am. The wind was strong. We lay in bed hoping the lawn chairs sitting outside would still be there when we got up in the morning.
And yes, everything was still there. The much-needed rain did no damage here in the campground. But I saw on the news that there were tornadoes in Georgia. Thank goodness we were spared from that.
It was a boring yet relaxing morning drinking coffee and listening to the radio. I did some writing and reading on Medium.
About lunchtime, Rich started his usual rummaging through the cupboards, the refrigerator, and the freezer, and said, “Let’s go grocery shopping.”
We drove to the nearest Dollar General and loaded up on some goodies. When we came back home we settled for toasted cheese sandwiches and tomato soup.
Do you call it toasted cheese? I know a lot of people don’t. Everyone calls it something different. I blame my mother because that’s what she called it so that’s what I learned.
The only interesting thing that happened today was when we were sitting outside. The neighbor’s camper started rocking and pretty soon we heard a female voice begin to ooo and aaa. We could only assume one thing was going on inside that camper and listened as we pretended not to. After about 15 minutes the air conditioner turned on. I guess they were too hot. Then we heard some more ooo’s and aaa’s and just smiled at each other.
We spent the rest of the afternoon inside playing cards and games. It might seem boring to some people but we had fun. Maybe not as much fun as the neighbors did, but fun just the same.
The temperature is dropping and is supposed to get as low as 34 overnight.
Thanks for following along with us. See you tomorrow.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
