I love to shop! I buy things I need mostly but every once in a while... Amazon is addictive, I can shop for hours for almost anything I could ever want. I read the reviews and choose carefully on even the smallest item. I have an Amazon credit card so it's so easy to click and it's on the way. Therein lies the problem. I actually have to pay for this stuff eventually and interest to boot.
I needed a Porti Potti for my dream trip. It's now snuggled neatly into it's spot in my van, yet to be christened. Good shoes for my Amazon job, gotta have em. They're quite comfortable just like they promised but since I wear them almost daily, it's unlikely that they will last till November. I checked the reviews for insoles too and bought the suggested ones at Wal-Mart. My feet are happy now, my wallet not so much.
Did you know you can get auto parts on Amazon? I saved a bunch on the heater core and the universal joints for my van. Those were necessities, I can't travel in the winter without heat and that annoying clunk could be dangerous. I really needed the dog brush and clipper blade to replace broken equipment too. It's not like I'm just blowing money.
I had to buy a Thermos since I'll be taking my lunch every day and the purple one was on sale. Keeps food hot for 7 hours! It hasn't arrived yet but I'm sure it will come in handy. The tote with the Poodle on it will be perfect to carry it along with everything else I'll need to get through the day. Granted I have other bags that would work just as well but it looks so cute in the picture.
I don't just love shopping online, a store will do just fine. I look for bargains and I find them. Three pairs of really thick socks for $2.19. In a cart at the front of the grocery store would you believe? They have colorful reading glasses for two bucks a pair too. Granted they're not made to last but I either step on them or the puppy carries them off way before they have time to break. I redid my travel trailer floor with peel and stick tiles from Family Dollar. $12 a box and still looks great after six months. The Odd Lots outlet is where I get all my craft supplies and household items.
I've found a way to get paid to do what I love. Every Friday morning I shop for the campground. On the clock and they pay for the gas. I'm careful not to spend too much time browsing for myself but heck if I'm already there...
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Amazon
My plan is coming together. I'm going to work for Amazon during the holiday season so I will have money for the big trip out west. They have a program called Camperforce. They give you a choice of campgrounds to stay at and your lot rent and electricity is paid. You also get a pretty decent salary with lots of overtime. A dollar for every hour worked as a bonus when you leave. Yes, there is a catch. Ten hours a day packing boxes while standing on concrete.
The entire hiring process was very easy. I filled out an application online. I chose Kentucky as my preferred location. I then received an e-mail requesting a good time for a phone interview. I spoke to a woman with a lovely southern accent. She asked me several questions just to make sure I understood what the job entailed. I told her of my fear of heights and was guaranteed a job on the ground floor. What a relief. I could just see myself holding the rails on the third story catwalk frozen in fear. She assured me it has happened. One of the requirements is proof of graduation. Ok, it's been how many years since I got out of high school? My diploma is where? Not a clue. Turns out a call to the school and my proof is in the mail.
I'm going to spend the two months in my van. There's no way this old trailer would make the trip even if my van was strong enough to pull it. I was told that there would be no problem finding someone to swap dog walking duties with but I'm torn on whether to bring Gable (my 60 pounder) along. I have friends in New York who will watch him and where he'll get a chance to run every day. I know he'll be happier but it's still hard. Three dog night is a great name for a band but in a 32 inch wide bed, it's just plain uncomfortable. Thank goodness my little ones don't need much space. I wouldn't go without them.
I'll be working most of October here at the campground. I'll start Amazon in November and have to stay until released no later than Dec 23rd. Drive to New York to get Gable and spend the holidays with my friends. Then it's either Florida to see my family or Quartsite and Las Vegas first then to Florida. Depends on weather. Any way I map it, it's a lot of driving.
I've already started prepping the van for full time living. Planning on what I'll take and where it will fit. I need to get a few things to make life more comfortable. An electric blanket that runs on 12 volt. A Porti Potti. Really good shoes for standing all day. I know just where to buy everything. Amazon of course. I wonder if I can get my employee discount early?
The entire hiring process was very easy. I filled out an application online. I chose Kentucky as my preferred location. I then received an e-mail requesting a good time for a phone interview. I spoke to a woman with a lovely southern accent. She asked me several questions just to make sure I understood what the job entailed. I told her of my fear of heights and was guaranteed a job on the ground floor. What a relief. I could just see myself holding the rails on the third story catwalk frozen in fear. She assured me it has happened. One of the requirements is proof of graduation. Ok, it's been how many years since I got out of high school? My diploma is where? Not a clue. Turns out a call to the school and my proof is in the mail.
I'm going to spend the two months in my van. There's no way this old trailer would make the trip even if my van was strong enough to pull it. I was told that there would be no problem finding someone to swap dog walking duties with but I'm torn on whether to bring Gable (my 60 pounder) along. I have friends in New York who will watch him and where he'll get a chance to run every day. I know he'll be happier but it's still hard. Three dog night is a great name for a band but in a 32 inch wide bed, it's just plain uncomfortable. Thank goodness my little ones don't need much space. I wouldn't go without them.
I'll be working most of October here at the campground. I'll start Amazon in November and have to stay until released no later than Dec 23rd. Drive to New York to get Gable and spend the holidays with my friends. Then it's either Florida to see my family or Quartsite and Las Vegas first then to Florida. Depends on weather. Any way I map it, it's a lot of driving.
I've already started prepping the van for full time living. Planning on what I'll take and where it will fit. I need to get a few things to make life more comfortable. An electric blanket that runs on 12 volt. A Porti Potti. Really good shoes for standing all day. I know just where to buy everything. Amazon of course. I wonder if I can get my employee discount early?
Spring has sprung
I've been scarce on the blog front lately. The snow is finally gone and the to do list at the campground is remarkably long. I'm one of those rare birds who prefers snow to it's warmer wetter cousin. I don't keep track of how many inches we've gotten but it's way too much for me. Stain the decks, paint the cement mascot, paint the playground equipment. I'd love to get it all done if it would just stop raining! I did finish the photo sign, it resides under my awning waiting to be installed.
I roll over and look out the window in the morning. The sun is out, yippee. I pull on my parka to walk the dogs. Switch to a hoodie by ten, that's off by noon. Switch my pants for shorts around two, back into pants by four. Add hoodie by six and into the parka again for the last walk at night. Make up your mind Mother nature, this is ridiculous.
We've got quite a variety of workampers this year. Local rednecks, those returning from last year, and a few newbies. "Empty the waste tanks, that was not on the job description". I'm sure the retired NYC police officer has never driven a tractor pulling a hay wagon full of screaming kids, welcome to KOA. Aged 16 to mid 60s they are busy removing dead leaves leftover from the fall. Rake into huge piles, shovel into bucket of tractor, empty into dump truck. Big boy toys. The burn pile was lovely until they added the plastic covered mattresses and insulation from other projects on their lists. Four new cabins, remodeled store, tons of spring cleaning. It's only a few weeks until the official Memorial Day start of the season.
Not that we haven't been busy already. Last weekend we made birdfeeders and the kids decorated their own cupcakes for our mascot's birthday. There was a huge family reunion here yesterday. I helped the kids make maracas out of cardboard toilet paper rolls. We built barriers out of foam insulation and had a water balloon fight. Hours on the field with sack races and tug of war. I staggered home and saw my neighbor sitting at her picnic table. "I just need to talk to an adult" I told her. It's only just begun.
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| The photo sign I painted |
I roll over and look out the window in the morning. The sun is out, yippee. I pull on my parka to walk the dogs. Switch to a hoodie by ten, that's off by noon. Switch my pants for shorts around two, back into pants by four. Add hoodie by six and into the parka again for the last walk at night. Make up your mind Mother nature, this is ridiculous.
We've got quite a variety of workampers this year. Local rednecks, those returning from last year, and a few newbies. "Empty the waste tanks, that was not on the job description". I'm sure the retired NYC police officer has never driven a tractor pulling a hay wagon full of screaming kids, welcome to KOA. Aged 16 to mid 60s they are busy removing dead leaves leftover from the fall. Rake into huge piles, shovel into bucket of tractor, empty into dump truck. Big boy toys. The burn pile was lovely until they added the plastic covered mattresses and insulation from other projects on their lists. Four new cabins, remodeled store, tons of spring cleaning. It's only a few weeks until the official Memorial Day start of the season.
Not that we haven't been busy already. Last weekend we made birdfeeders and the kids decorated their own cupcakes for our mascot's birthday. There was a huge family reunion here yesterday. I helped the kids make maracas out of cardboard toilet paper rolls. We built barriers out of foam insulation and had a water balloon fight. Hours on the field with sack races and tug of war. I staggered home and saw my neighbor sitting at her picnic table. "I just need to talk to an adult" I told her. It's only just begun.
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| Cupcakes the kids decorated themselves |
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| "Chippy" and company |
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Typical morning.
I roll over, open one eye and notice that there is dim light showing through the window. Mom's awake! Eight tiny paws do a tap dance on my chest. Cricket thinks it's her duty to clean the sleep out of my eyes and I feel her rough tongue on my cheek. "OK guys, I can't get up unless you move". A quick trip to the bathroom. Let the cat out. Actually let the cat stand in the open doorway deciding whether he want's to go out. A gentle push with my bare foot, decision made. I pull on my boots, something is not quite right. I take off one boot and remove the cat food lid. Yesterday it was a bone, the day before a spool of thread. Liza has been busy.
The weather is dreary, it's only 7 am, off leash should be ok. Three dogs dash out the door and immediately run to the rear of the nearby storage barn looking for feral cats. None found so under the wire fence into the adjoining horse pasture they go. No horses out yet thank goodness. It amazes me that something as big as a horse will run from a six pound Poodle but I've seen it happen more than once. Cricket thinks it's her job and will totally ignores my screams to come.
I cannot follow them into the pasture but I know where they will end up and make the trek towards the creek. Liza, drop that! She has found a pile of deer scat and is wolfing it down. She grabs another bite and takes off again. Gable is running full speed ahead and disappears for a moment only to return wet to the ankles from the muddy creek water. I pick up the mess Cricket just made and a few piles uncovered by the melting snow and enough already. "Time for breakfast, everybody inside". Dry Gable's legs with a towel and throw a cover over the bed he is about to jump on.
I found this great one cup coffee maker at the nearby Big Lots. You put a mug on it, a tablespoon of coffee in the mini filter add water and two minutes later, a steaming cup is ready. I pour in the water, add the coffee and open a can of food for the cat. Collect the dog bowls and start preparing their food. I notice the brown stream coming off the side of the counter and grab a mug to catch the last drips still coming from the pot. Clean up the mess, put on another pot, and feed the dogs.
I consider myself a morning person. I get a lot done before most people wake up. If I didn't have so many pets, I'd get a lot more done. Is it worth it? Absolutely.
The weather is dreary, it's only 7 am, off leash should be ok. Three dogs dash out the door and immediately run to the rear of the nearby storage barn looking for feral cats. None found so under the wire fence into the adjoining horse pasture they go. No horses out yet thank goodness. It amazes me that something as big as a horse will run from a six pound Poodle but I've seen it happen more than once. Cricket thinks it's her job and will totally ignores my screams to come.
I cannot follow them into the pasture but I know where they will end up and make the trek towards the creek. Liza, drop that! She has found a pile of deer scat and is wolfing it down. She grabs another bite and takes off again. Gable is running full speed ahead and disappears for a moment only to return wet to the ankles from the muddy creek water. I pick up the mess Cricket just made and a few piles uncovered by the melting snow and enough already. "Time for breakfast, everybody inside". Dry Gable's legs with a towel and throw a cover over the bed he is about to jump on.
I found this great one cup coffee maker at the nearby Big Lots. You put a mug on it, a tablespoon of coffee in the mini filter add water and two minutes later, a steaming cup is ready. I pour in the water, add the coffee and open a can of food for the cat. Collect the dog bowls and start preparing their food. I notice the brown stream coming off the side of the counter and grab a mug to catch the last drips still coming from the pot. Clean up the mess, put on another pot, and feed the dogs.
I consider myself a morning person. I get a lot done before most people wake up. If I didn't have so many pets, I'd get a lot more done. Is it worth it? Absolutely.
Friday, March 21, 2014
What I drive
It's funny how the vehicle we drive defines us. The cute little collage student in the bright green VW bug. The aging CEO trying to regain his youth in the red sports car. The soccer mom in the minivan. I've always driven vans. I had a mini van once. I bought it only because parking my full sized one was almost impossible in the New York area. To me a van or at least one without Bobs Plumbing written on it says Traveler.
My current van says "There goes the neighborhood." and makes you want to start humming the theme song from the Beverly Hillbillies. It's 19 feet long and 8 feet high. You can still see the words Ice Cream Truck stenciled on the fiberglass roof. It's grey, light grey mostly where I attempted to make it look better by painting it with spray cans. I never finished the passengers side. That still has spots of black primer. There are ghosts of the stars that used to embellish it showing through. The passengers side mirror has a mind of its own and is usually in a position better suited for viewing the car in front of me.
If it were human the van would be old enough to drink. Old enough to have married and have a kid in school for that matter. Not as old as me thank goodness. She has lower miles on her odometer than most her age and my best guess is that she sat ignored in a field somewhere for a long time. I don't see a beat up old truck, I see a diamond in the rough.
Oh the plans I have for my old van. It's the perfect size for a camper for the Poodles and I. I've already put the sofa bed in. Cabinets over the bed to store my clothing. The grooming tub will be my sink, the table my place to dine. She still needs a good cleaning and a lot of paint but we're headed in the right direction. No matter how she looks, it's how she runs that matters. The engine is strong, the tires are good, she's ready to go. And one day we will.
The day I bought it.
6 months later, One side almost done.
My current van says "There goes the neighborhood." and makes you want to start humming the theme song from the Beverly Hillbillies. It's 19 feet long and 8 feet high. You can still see the words Ice Cream Truck stenciled on the fiberglass roof. It's grey, light grey mostly where I attempted to make it look better by painting it with spray cans. I never finished the passengers side. That still has spots of black primer. There are ghosts of the stars that used to embellish it showing through. The passengers side mirror has a mind of its own and is usually in a position better suited for viewing the car in front of me.
If it were human the van would be old enough to drink. Old enough to have married and have a kid in school for that matter. Not as old as me thank goodness. She has lower miles on her odometer than most her age and my best guess is that she sat ignored in a field somewhere for a long time. I don't see a beat up old truck, I see a diamond in the rough.
Oh the plans I have for my old van. It's the perfect size for a camper for the Poodles and I. I've already put the sofa bed in. Cabinets over the bed to store my clothing. The grooming tub will be my sink, the table my place to dine. She still needs a good cleaning and a lot of paint but we're headed in the right direction. No matter how she looks, it's how she runs that matters. The engine is strong, the tires are good, she's ready to go. And one day we will.
The day I bought it.
6 months later, One side almost done.Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Working vacation
Home at last. Most would wonder why in the hell I didn't stay away a few days longer but as small as it is, this trailer is all mine. I did enjoy my trip though. I stayed with two different friends and really felt like they wanted me to be there. M is older and admits that I could be her daughter. I have the most comfortable bed and hours in the evening to relax in front of the huge television. M has told me many times that she is not going to cook for me but broke that rule twice this weekend. Grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup for lunch on Saturday and traditional corned beef and cabbage for St. Patrick's day Monday. Staying with E is a different story altogether. The woman lives a don't stop to breathe life and it's catch up or get left behind. This weekend she was only watching five dogs plus her two plus my three. Sadie snores, Teddy is picking a fight with Jerry, someone is scratching and you can hear their foot hitting an empty crate. The futon I'm trying to sleep on is only a few feet away and Cricket just took off after E's cat as he tries to escape through an open window. You don't go to E's house to relax but she is one of my favorite people and it's all worth it. One day I'll actually beat her at Scrabble, we got four late night games in and as usual I got whooped.
I always take too many clothes and was determined to take only what I needed this time. I groomed a total of 13 dogs in the four days I was in New York and the majority of my clothing was covered in dog hair. I remembered pajama bottoms but didn't have a top to sleep in. No problem, "E, do you have a large t-shirt I can borrow?" "Large for YOU? I'm not sure." Ok, I admit I've gained a few pounds but come on now, I'm not that big. This was actually the second time she brought up my weight. She came right out and said "So what do you weigh these days?" as we drove to the nearby casino. OK, message received, I need to get serious about losing some of this weight that has accumulated since menopause reared it's ugly head.
I got to see two other friends when the old gang got together for dinner on Saturday night. Lots of laughter, the biggest Cobb salad I've ever seen and a few games of quick draw made it an enjoyable evening for sure. D has been battling cancer for years and still looks amazing. Nobody would ever guess what she's gone through to look at her. I don't know how she deals with the constant ups and downs. A has had her share of health scares too. They both look at my life as a bit uncivilized but say they admire how I deal with living off the grid. I admire the way they deal with living on it.
I always take too many clothes and was determined to take only what I needed this time. I groomed a total of 13 dogs in the four days I was in New York and the majority of my clothing was covered in dog hair. I remembered pajama bottoms but didn't have a top to sleep in. No problem, "E, do you have a large t-shirt I can borrow?" "Large for YOU? I'm not sure." Ok, I admit I've gained a few pounds but come on now, I'm not that big. This was actually the second time she brought up my weight. She came right out and said "So what do you weigh these days?" as we drove to the nearby casino. OK, message received, I need to get serious about losing some of this weight that has accumulated since menopause reared it's ugly head.
I got to see two other friends when the old gang got together for dinner on Saturday night. Lots of laughter, the biggest Cobb salad I've ever seen and a few games of quick draw made it an enjoyable evening for sure. D has been battling cancer for years and still looks amazing. Nobody would ever guess what she's gone through to look at her. I don't know how she deals with the constant ups and downs. A has had her share of health scares too. They both look at my life as a bit uncivilized but say they admire how I deal with living off the grid. I admire the way they deal with living on it.
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Favorite Photos
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| Gable in a Newburgh NY pond |
Ok, I'm just like any other Mom who posts photos of her kids. At least there is a little scenery in most of them.
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| Deco at a state park in Connecticut |
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| Joey, Chico, and Deco 2002 |
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| My beloved Cricket |
Finally, A few photos that don't include my pets.
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| My former tow vehicle |
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| My first class C at a Maine campground |
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| The roller coaster in Cape May NJ before hurricane Sandy hit |
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| Yes, that's me. Corn makes a great camouflage for a few extra pounds. |
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Laundry Day
Laundry is my least favorite thing to do. Not having clean socks is no fun either. Bite the bullet, it's got to get done. We have a Laundromat here at the campground but it's downright expensive. Today I went elsewhere. $1 a load on Wednesdays, what a deal! Several stores and a Subway sandwich shop in the plaza. Perfect, I can get lunch and shop while I'm waiting.
I love my old van, it's comfortable and it runs great. It also leaks. Lesson learned, never trust a mechanic who says your high top van will fit into his garage bay. The van fit but the roof vent paid the price. I washed a large load of dog grooming towels two weeks ago. I left the freshly washed towels in the hamper, in the van, below the leaky vent. I now had a three foot tall solid block of frozen terrycloth. I managed to break it into a few reasonable sized chunks and put them into a green trash bag. I loaded up two packed hampers belonging to my neighbors, all my clothes, my comforter, linens and throw rugs. A fifteen minute drive and I was there.
The Laundromat was busy but I only had to wait a short time to get enough free washers. The senior aged attendant was a doll, chatting with me and offering advice on how much soap I should use. The advice was not needed but I like friendly people so no problem. That is until she saw me try to put the frozen chunks into one of her washers. This is a no no I learned, I must put the mess in the dryer and defrost before washing. Clunk,Clunk,Clunk, everyone in the place could hear the sound of the blocks hitting the dyer walls. This is not going to work. Hot water was the obvious answer so I spent a half hour scalding my hands in the bathroom sink until the towels were (almost) ice free. All seven loads were finally running and I could relax for a few minutes.
The heater in my van has not been working well. Somebody told me that it might be because I needed more antifreeze. I did look into the radiator and I did see a green tint, how was I to know if it was enough. There was an auto parts store in the plaza so I went in to get advice. "Don't look in the radiator" he said. "There's a reservoir on the side for antifreeze. I went back out, raised the hood and walked sheepishly back in. "Did you find it?" asked the cashier.. "If you mean the bone dry white plastic container with the words add antifreeze here written clearly on the cap, yes I found it".
I got to know the clientele at the Laundromat quite well in the three hours I visited. I finally had everything folded and in it's appropriate bin or bag. I loaded everything into the van, in the rain, in the front, in the back, nowhere near the vent.
I love my old van, it's comfortable and it runs great. It also leaks. Lesson learned, never trust a mechanic who says your high top van will fit into his garage bay. The van fit but the roof vent paid the price. I washed a large load of dog grooming towels two weeks ago. I left the freshly washed towels in the hamper, in the van, below the leaky vent. I now had a three foot tall solid block of frozen terrycloth. I managed to break it into a few reasonable sized chunks and put them into a green trash bag. I loaded up two packed hampers belonging to my neighbors, all my clothes, my comforter, linens and throw rugs. A fifteen minute drive and I was there.
The Laundromat was busy but I only had to wait a short time to get enough free washers. The senior aged attendant was a doll, chatting with me and offering advice on how much soap I should use. The advice was not needed but I like friendly people so no problem. That is until she saw me try to put the frozen chunks into one of her washers. This is a no no I learned, I must put the mess in the dryer and defrost before washing. Clunk,Clunk,Clunk, everyone in the place could hear the sound of the blocks hitting the dyer walls. This is not going to work. Hot water was the obvious answer so I spent a half hour scalding my hands in the bathroom sink until the towels were (almost) ice free. All seven loads were finally running and I could relax for a few minutes.
The heater in my van has not been working well. Somebody told me that it might be because I needed more antifreeze. I did look into the radiator and I did see a green tint, how was I to know if it was enough. There was an auto parts store in the plaza so I went in to get advice. "Don't look in the radiator" he said. "There's a reservoir on the side for antifreeze. I went back out, raised the hood and walked sheepishly back in. "Did you find it?" asked the cashier.. "If you mean the bone dry white plastic container with the words add antifreeze here written clearly on the cap, yes I found it".
I got to know the clientele at the Laundromat quite well in the three hours I visited. I finally had everything folded and in it's appropriate bin or bag. I loaded everything into the van, in the rain, in the front, in the back, nowhere near the vent.
Daddy's girl
I am my fathers child. I look much more like my Mother though. We have the same build and similar features. Brunhilda, good German stock she'd always say. My sisters are both taller, thinner, and have red hair. We all have my Mom's brown eyes but the similarity ends there.
Dad or Padre as I often called him always said he was happy to have three daughters. Me being the oldest got the honor of helping him whenever there were projects to be done around the house. Not that my sisters had the least bit of interest in building or fixing anything. They were off to a friends house or fixing their hair or any number of girly type things. I found my dad a much better playmate. I'll never forget my Mother waking up and finding us watching the movie Gypsy at five in the morning. "That is not appropriate for a 12 year old girl". To this day it is one of my all time favorite movies.
Dad was always up at the crack of dawn, another trait we had in common. A cup of coffee, a cigarette and the crossword puzzle. Pineapple pancakes and corn beef hash for breakfast. That is when he was home. His profession for much of his life was Tugboat captain. He was gone for two or so weeks them home for a bit while my Mother had the job of raising three kids pretty much on her own. Mom was hard on me in particular, she always expected me to excel and I tried hard to please her. Dad would come home and the fun began. Dinner at Red Lobster, Picnics in the park, camping trips and Disney World. Poof he was gone again and we went back to the monotony of normal life. I always wished that I could go with him.
I never saw my father drink when I was growing up. My Mother tried to shield us from those times when he would go off on a binge. I knew there were "issues" but I pretty much ignored those times. He always came home, a bit disheveled perhaps, but with the same I'll never grow up attitude.
My parents divorced as soon as all the kids had left our home. I can't say I was surprised but I had my own life by then and it really didn't affect me at all. He headed to New Jersey and a new girlfriend and it was always a fun time when I visited. Years went by and he was back again, hammer in hand ready to help me fix up the old house I'd bought. I got a wreck of a boat and I can only image what people thought when they saw us motoring around the bay. We had kind of a deal, as long as he was sober, he could stay with me. I could always tell when he was ready to go.
The last time I saw my Father, he came to visit me in New York. I knew he was not well but it didn't stop us from having a great time. A trip to the casino and we both came home winners. It wasn't long after that we were scattering his ashes off of a rented boat. Peter Pan he may have been but to me he was just Dad. That cross country trip I'm planning, he would have loved to go along.
Reality TV Shows
I almost cried when I heard that Jen had been diagnosed with Cancer. One of the Dugger girls has a boyfriend! Chumley looks much better now that he's lost weight. I don't know how Mike puts up with Frank, sometimes he really annoys me. Come on Jared and Brandy, why did you buy that junk?
No these are not family friends. They don't even know me but I feel like I know them. Reality TV is a way to see how someone else lives, or at least the part they want you to see.
The first reality show I ever watched was Survivor. I'd always dreamed about living on a deserted island. I grew up watching Gilligan and the Skipper. I identified with MaryAnn and wished I was more like Ginger. I was hooked and never missed an episode. Did he really just eat that? I lost interest after a few years, the people didn't seem as real as in the earlier days.
More recently it was The Biggest Loser. I never missed a show the first few seasons but they started adding all kinds of twists and turns and it doesn't seem like it's as much about the struggle anymore. I was horrified when I saw this seasons winner. Thin may be in but she took it way too far.
What not to Wear was great. It wasn't always perfect people they helped to dress better. That woman was built like me. Too tall, too short, too curvy, they all looked great in the end.
America's Next Top Model, Design Star, Food Network Star, all were favorites at one time. At least they were competitions that required some kind of real talent. I didn't agree with the judges many times but that kind of added to the enjoyment. Some of the designs on Project Runway are pretty funky but I still look forward to that one.
I love the feel good shows. The last five minutes of Undercover Boss always brings tears to my eyes. Restaurant Impossible always has a happy ending though I sometime wonder how many of those places stay in business. I can't get enough of The Little Couple and how they overcome their many struggles. I just realized that they are on tonight! I'm dying to see what happened.
Is it unhealthy to so be involved in other peoples lives? It's not like all I do is watch television. A couple of evenings a week I enjoy seeing people doing things I've never done. Living in situations that are different than mine. But not too different. I avoid the hoarders and the swamp people, the housewives and any show that has to bleep out half the words. The television was invented as a way to relax after a hard day. Actually it was probably more to let people see what was going on outside their own little town. Reality TV still does that.
No these are not family friends. They don't even know me but I feel like I know them. Reality TV is a way to see how someone else lives, or at least the part they want you to see.
The first reality show I ever watched was Survivor. I'd always dreamed about living on a deserted island. I grew up watching Gilligan and the Skipper. I identified with MaryAnn and wished I was more like Ginger. I was hooked and never missed an episode. Did he really just eat that? I lost interest after a few years, the people didn't seem as real as in the earlier days.
More recently it was The Biggest Loser. I never missed a show the first few seasons but they started adding all kinds of twists and turns and it doesn't seem like it's as much about the struggle anymore. I was horrified when I saw this seasons winner. Thin may be in but she took it way too far.
What not to Wear was great. It wasn't always perfect people they helped to dress better. That woman was built like me. Too tall, too short, too curvy, they all looked great in the end.
America's Next Top Model, Design Star, Food Network Star, all were favorites at one time. At least they were competitions that required some kind of real talent. I didn't agree with the judges many times but that kind of added to the enjoyment. Some of the designs on Project Runway are pretty funky but I still look forward to that one.
I love the feel good shows. The last five minutes of Undercover Boss always brings tears to my eyes. Restaurant Impossible always has a happy ending though I sometime wonder how many of those places stay in business. I can't get enough of The Little Couple and how they overcome their many struggles. I just realized that they are on tonight! I'm dying to see what happened.
Is it unhealthy to so be involved in other peoples lives? It's not like all I do is watch television. A couple of evenings a week I enjoy seeing people doing things I've never done. Living in situations that are different than mine. But not too different. I avoid the hoarders and the swamp people, the housewives and any show that has to bleep out half the words. The television was invented as a way to relax after a hard day. Actually it was probably more to let people see what was going on outside their own little town. Reality TV still does that.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
You should have been an artist.
From the time I was able to actually comprehend what the question "What are you going to be when you grow up"? meant, I always had the same answer. I'm going to be an artist. Since none of you have ever seen my paintings in a gallery, you may say that I didn't quite live up to that goal. I consider myself a reasonably good painter. Others have told me I'm talented. To those who can barely draw a stick figure, I'm really really good.
I was offered a scholarship to an art school in Ft. Lauderdale. I graduated early from high school and was not quite 18 years old. Going that far away from home where I knew nobody was just too scary. I have always been totally dog crazy so I became a groomer instead. Taking a dirty, matted, mess of a mutt and making it look beautiful. It was kind of like art with teeth. I came home every day smelly and covered with hair and I loved it. I was able to support myself and never had trouble finding a job. After 30 years my hands said "please, give us a break". It was either surgery for carpel tunnel or stop grooming full time. I chose the latter. I still groom a few dogs when I can. My own dogs rarely get a haircut. The old shoemakers kids thing does apply in my case.
I've continued to enjoy Art. Pet portraits are my favorite and I enjoy knowing that my paintings are hanging on somebody's wall. Seeing an owner tear up as they remark how much it looks like their dear departed Riley is fulfilling. I also like giving my artwork away to family and friends.
As rec director I get to help children enjoy arts and crafts. Last season we made dream catchers from yarn and flying saucers from pie pans. While in New Hampshire it was birch bark reindeer. I made a dozen of those as gifts last Christmas. Owls from pinecones, rafts from twigs, anything nature related was a hit.
My most recent canvas is the bathroom walls here at the campground. My mother wrote a little ditty that says it all. "Bears in the bathroom, raccoons on a tree, wild geese a courting where men go to pee". Ok, so It's not the Sistine Chapel but it was a fun job
My next project is a large outdoor panel for the
campground guests to take photos. I'll have several generic people where they can put their faces with animals in the background stealing their food. I'm just waiting for the snow to leave to get started.
I was offered a scholarship to an art school in Ft. Lauderdale. I graduated early from high school and was not quite 18 years old. Going that far away from home where I knew nobody was just too scary. I have always been totally dog crazy so I became a groomer instead. Taking a dirty, matted, mess of a mutt and making it look beautiful. It was kind of like art with teeth. I came home every day smelly and covered with hair and I loved it. I was able to support myself and never had trouble finding a job. After 30 years my hands said "please, give us a break". It was either surgery for carpel tunnel or stop grooming full time. I chose the latter. I still groom a few dogs when I can. My own dogs rarely get a haircut. The old shoemakers kids thing does apply in my case. 
I've continued to enjoy Art. Pet portraits are my favorite and I enjoy knowing that my paintings are hanging on somebody's wall. Seeing an owner tear up as they remark how much it looks like their dear departed Riley is fulfilling. I also like giving my artwork away to family and friends. As rec director I get to help children enjoy arts and crafts. Last season we made dream catchers from yarn and flying saucers from pie pans. While in New Hampshire it was birch bark reindeer. I made a dozen of those as gifts last Christmas. Owls from pinecones, rafts from twigs, anything nature related was a hit.
My most recent canvas is the bathroom walls here at the campground. My mother wrote a little ditty that says it all. "Bears in the bathroom, raccoons on a tree, wild geese a courting where men go to pee". Ok, so It's not the Sistine Chapel but it was a fun job
My next project is a large outdoor panel for the
campground guests to take photos. I'll have several generic people where they can put their faces with animals in the background stealing their food. I'm just waiting for the snow to leave to get started.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Small Space Organization
Anyone who knows me well know that my home is always a mess. There are dishes in the sink. Whatever project I am working on is sprawled across my desk, my bed, and in some cases the floor. I do crafts, I paint, I sew, and I'm constantly remodeling or repairing something. You do not need to worry if you come visit. You will not get some terrible disease if you eat here. My home is not dirty, it's just cluttered with stuff.
If you open up a drawer or a cabinet you will see that clothes are neatly folded. Winter clothes over one bunk, summer over the other. Everything is where it is supposed to be. If I'm looking for my sewing fabric, I know exactly where to look. My jacket is hung on a hook right as I enter. I have a stick on wall pocket for gloves and a hat. My shoes have a shelf in the bathroom along with a fabric box full of socks. My paints and craft supplies are in a tote that doubles as a stool and step ladder. That is if I took the time to actually return them after they were used.
I love shoe boxes. The plastic kind with the snap on top are perfect for all sorts of items. In the cabinet above my living area, every shelf has several of these boxes. Each is labeled so I know the contents without actually having to open the box. Batteries and chargers. Tapes and adhesives. Dog clothing. Yes I know everybody does not need a box for dog clothing but I own two tiny dogs and they sometimes need an extra layer. I also have a box simply labeled junk drawer.
I removed the dining booth in my rv. I find them very uncomfortable and they take up an enormous amount of space. I bought an inexpensive door and built storage cabinets on either end to support it. I tucked an office chair in the center and I can use my computer, sew, do crafts and eat in comfort. I look out the big picture window while I'm sitting and watch birds and deer. The biggest benefit is that I now have a full four feet of empty space between my desk and kitchen counter. Everybody remarks at how the place looks so much larger.
One day soon I'll take that long dreamed of cross country van trip. I know I'll have to pare down even further. It's simply a matter of determining what we actually use on a daily basis. I don't know about you but I figure I wear less than half of the clothes I own. I wont need dishes to serve four or a 12 piece set of pots and pans. I will probably take my sewing machine or at least some of my craft supplies. These are things that I enjoy, for you it might be fishing or sports equipment. I need room to move around, my dogs need room to move around. Decisions decisions,
If you open up a drawer or a cabinet you will see that clothes are neatly folded. Winter clothes over one bunk, summer over the other. Everything is where it is supposed to be. If I'm looking for my sewing fabric, I know exactly where to look. My jacket is hung on a hook right as I enter. I have a stick on wall pocket for gloves and a hat. My shoes have a shelf in the bathroom along with a fabric box full of socks. My paints and craft supplies are in a tote that doubles as a stool and step ladder. That is if I took the time to actually return them after they were used.
I love shoe boxes. The plastic kind with the snap on top are perfect for all sorts of items. In the cabinet above my living area, every shelf has several of these boxes. Each is labeled so I know the contents without actually having to open the box. Batteries and chargers. Tapes and adhesives. Dog clothing. Yes I know everybody does not need a box for dog clothing but I own two tiny dogs and they sometimes need an extra layer. I also have a box simply labeled junk drawer.
I removed the dining booth in my rv. I find them very uncomfortable and they take up an enormous amount of space. I bought an inexpensive door and built storage cabinets on either end to support it. I tucked an office chair in the center and I can use my computer, sew, do crafts and eat in comfort. I look out the big picture window while I'm sitting and watch birds and deer. The biggest benefit is that I now have a full four feet of empty space between my desk and kitchen counter. Everybody remarks at how the place looks so much larger.
One day soon I'll take that long dreamed of cross country van trip. I know I'll have to pare down even further. It's simply a matter of determining what we actually use on a daily basis. I don't know about you but I figure I wear less than half of the clothes I own. I wont need dishes to serve four or a 12 piece set of pots and pans. I will probably take my sewing machine or at least some of my craft supplies. These are things that I enjoy, for you it might be fishing or sports equipment. I need room to move around, my dogs need room to move around. Decisions decisions,
Thursday, March 6, 2014
what not to wear
I have never been a fashion forward woman. I dress for comfort, weather, and to hide those parts of myself that I don't think the world would care to view. In an rv, space is at a premium so I've had to pare down my wardrobe to fit. . Sweatpants and long sleeved t-shirts are a staple. A couple of pairs of jeans. I have a dress or two for special occasions, and a few things I would not be embarrassed to wear for an evening out. I've also kept at least a dozen items that I hope to be able to fit into again someday. A girl can dream.
I enjoy people watching and am amazed at the things some people think are appropriate. I'm overweight myself so I understand how hard it is to find clothes to flatter your figure. Bright pink spandex does not flatter a larger body type. You may think you look sexy but I'm wondering how long it took you to squeeze into that getup. A good bra is an investment but you're going to regret not owning one in a few years. Belly shirts are cute but there is an age where they are a tad inappropriate. I do not desire to see your rear end every time you reach down to pick up an item. This goes for men too. They made an invention called a belt many years ago. Invest in one if your pants are too loose. Your girlfriend may enjoy looking at your boxer shorts, I do not.
Long pants should be long enough to cover at least the top of your shoes. Your ankles and those bright green socks should not be visible unless you are sitting with your legs crossed. If you are barefoot and wading at the beach this rule obviously does not apply.
Certain colors do not particularly go together. I took a friend to a doctors appointment yesterday. An employee got up to leave and I almost laughed out loud. Purple floral blouse, plaid pants, red shoes, are you kidding me? I gave leeway to the older gentleman with his pants pulled up to his underarms but not to the younger one with intentional holes in places better not mentioned.
I feel obligated to read things written on t-shirts, rear ends, and down pant legs. Please at least make them appropriate for public viewing. "Your father should have pulled out sooner" might make some laugh but is darned near impossible to explain to a six year old. "I love cats, they taste just like chicken", not funny. I do not like to be caught staring but the angle you are sitting at makes it almost impossible to see what your shirt says. You wore it for that reason, right?
Look in the mirror before you leave your home. I would never criticize someone for not owning beautiful clothes. I've gone out looking like a sloppy mess more than a few times. I do try to avoid shopping in my pajamas but admit that I have done it. I'm talking about the extremes. Those who obviously enjoy having everyone look at them. Be considerate, it's hard to walk with our eyes closed.
I enjoy people watching and am amazed at the things some people think are appropriate. I'm overweight myself so I understand how hard it is to find clothes to flatter your figure. Bright pink spandex does not flatter a larger body type. You may think you look sexy but I'm wondering how long it took you to squeeze into that getup. A good bra is an investment but you're going to regret not owning one in a few years. Belly shirts are cute but there is an age where they are a tad inappropriate. I do not desire to see your rear end every time you reach down to pick up an item. This goes for men too. They made an invention called a belt many years ago. Invest in one if your pants are too loose. Your girlfriend may enjoy looking at your boxer shorts, I do not.
Long pants should be long enough to cover at least the top of your shoes. Your ankles and those bright green socks should not be visible unless you are sitting with your legs crossed. If you are barefoot and wading at the beach this rule obviously does not apply.
Certain colors do not particularly go together. I took a friend to a doctors appointment yesterday. An employee got up to leave and I almost laughed out loud. Purple floral blouse, plaid pants, red shoes, are you kidding me? I gave leeway to the older gentleman with his pants pulled up to his underarms but not to the younger one with intentional holes in places better not mentioned.
I feel obligated to read things written on t-shirts, rear ends, and down pant legs. Please at least make them appropriate for public viewing. "Your father should have pulled out sooner" might make some laugh but is darned near impossible to explain to a six year old. "I love cats, they taste just like chicken", not funny. I do not like to be caught staring but the angle you are sitting at makes it almost impossible to see what your shirt says. You wore it for that reason, right?
Look in the mirror before you leave your home. I would never criticize someone for not owning beautiful clothes. I've gone out looking like a sloppy mess more than a few times. I do try to avoid shopping in my pajamas but admit that I have done it. I'm talking about the extremes. Those who obviously enjoy having everyone look at them. Be considerate, it's hard to walk with our eyes closed.
Cheap Eats
I spend less on groceries than most. I don't have much space to store food. A tiny pantry and a three foot tall refrigerator does not hold a lot. I might be able to save more if I used coupons but I don't need three packages of Super Saucy flavored rice. I love to cook and have several go to meals that I can put together at a moments notice. No, I will never have my own show on Food Network. Simple combos that cost almost nothing, that's my specialty.
If I were stuck on a desert island and could only take one item it would be peanut butter. It's the one thing I always have on hand. My go to breakfast is rye toast with peanut butter. Add Jelly and you've got an easy lunch. Make a sauce with it and put in on your chicken. I see a sale on Skippy extra chunky for $1.99 and I'm a very happy camper.
The incredible edible egg. Twelve meals for $1.39 I like mine fried hard with none of the runny yellow yolk but you can have your egg any way you like it. Drop a slice of bread in it for French toast. If you don't have syrup, no problem. Just sprinkle a bit of sugar on it and you're good. Throw a few veggies or a little cheese in and scramble. Leftover ham, now you're talking.
Tuna is a cheap meal in a can. Grab a few of those condiment packages of mayo when you go out for fast food. Get a packet of relish while your at it and mix well. Put it on bread or just eat as is.
Add tuna to mac and cheese for a more substantial meal. Boil up some pasta, add tuna and mayo. Throw in a small can of peas and chill. Season with lemon pepper and lunch is served. Add an egg and a handful of seasoned breadcrumbs to a can of tuna, make into a patty and fry it up. If you like crab cakes, you will like this just as much.
Spaghetti is always easy though I actually prefer the curly rotini. Pasta is cheap and goes a long way. The canned sauce from Hunts actually tastes better than the jarred stuff and I see it on sale for $1.00 all the time. Once again, add cut up veggies, hamburger or sausage if you have them and you can at least imagine that you're sitting at Mama's table.
I enjoy chicken thighs or Tilapia seasoned with lemon pepper and baked in my toaster oven. The yellow rice from Vigo comes in a small package and is great with the chicken. Add a can of black beans on top and you've got a Mexican specialty. Put your fish on a crusty roll and add a bit of tarter sauce. Quick, easy, and delicious. Need a dish for the pot luck? Chili pie is my favorite. Make two cups of rice and add 3/4 of a bag of shredded chedder. Push the mixture into a pie pan or casserole dish and you have your crust. Make chili anyway you prefer and pour it over the rice mixture. Add the rest of the cheese on top and toast until it melts. I've never come home with leftovers and it costs next to nothing.
When I'm on the road I do eat fast food occasionally. Subway is a favorite of mine and they are everywhere. A slice of pizza is probably the least expensive thing if you're in town. Most of the chains have dollar menus now, if you steer away from the expensive drinks you can eat for next to nothing. I make my own decaffeinated iced tea and carry that along. If you like sodas, buy a case on sale instead of paying $2.50 for a single bottle.
I'm not saying that you shouldn't have a local specialty once in a while. That's half the fun of traveling. If you watch your pennies by eating cheap most days, you'll be able to splurge. All this food talk is making me hungry. Let me see what I'm having for lunch.
If I were stuck on a desert island and could only take one item it would be peanut butter. It's the one thing I always have on hand. My go to breakfast is rye toast with peanut butter. Add Jelly and you've got an easy lunch. Make a sauce with it and put in on your chicken. I see a sale on Skippy extra chunky for $1.99 and I'm a very happy camper.
The incredible edible egg. Twelve meals for $1.39 I like mine fried hard with none of the runny yellow yolk but you can have your egg any way you like it. Drop a slice of bread in it for French toast. If you don't have syrup, no problem. Just sprinkle a bit of sugar on it and you're good. Throw a few veggies or a little cheese in and scramble. Leftover ham, now you're talking.
Tuna is a cheap meal in a can. Grab a few of those condiment packages of mayo when you go out for fast food. Get a packet of relish while your at it and mix well. Put it on bread or just eat as is.
Add tuna to mac and cheese for a more substantial meal. Boil up some pasta, add tuna and mayo. Throw in a small can of peas and chill. Season with lemon pepper and lunch is served. Add an egg and a handful of seasoned breadcrumbs to a can of tuna, make into a patty and fry it up. If you like crab cakes, you will like this just as much.
Spaghetti is always easy though I actually prefer the curly rotini. Pasta is cheap and goes a long way. The canned sauce from Hunts actually tastes better than the jarred stuff and I see it on sale for $1.00 all the time. Once again, add cut up veggies, hamburger or sausage if you have them and you can at least imagine that you're sitting at Mama's table.
I enjoy chicken thighs or Tilapia seasoned with lemon pepper and baked in my toaster oven. The yellow rice from Vigo comes in a small package and is great with the chicken. Add a can of black beans on top and you've got a Mexican specialty. Put your fish on a crusty roll and add a bit of tarter sauce. Quick, easy, and delicious. Need a dish for the pot luck? Chili pie is my favorite. Make two cups of rice and add 3/4 of a bag of shredded chedder. Push the mixture into a pie pan or casserole dish and you have your crust. Make chili anyway you prefer and pour it over the rice mixture. Add the rest of the cheese on top and toast until it melts. I've never come home with leftovers and it costs next to nothing.
When I'm on the road I do eat fast food occasionally. Subway is a favorite of mine and they are everywhere. A slice of pizza is probably the least expensive thing if you're in town. Most of the chains have dollar menus now, if you steer away from the expensive drinks you can eat for next to nothing. I make my own decaffeinated iced tea and carry that along. If you like sodas, buy a case on sale instead of paying $2.50 for a single bottle.
I'm not saying that you shouldn't have a local specialty once in a while. That's half the fun of traveling. If you watch your pennies by eating cheap most days, you'll be able to splurge. All this food talk is making me hungry. Let me see what I'm having for lunch.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
The weight on my shoulders, and hips, and stomach...
I have always fought my weight. I like to eat, I have to eat to stay alive. No, I don't have to eat a bag of Oreos but at the time I really enjoy them. It costs more to eat well, that is just a fact. Every time I start a diet, the first thing I have to do is go to the grocery store. That is after making sure that there is not a fattening thing left in my home. Finish ice cream, check. Leftover chips and onion dip, might as well eat those too.
With great intentions I begin my jaunt around the store. I like vegetables, wow asparagus is really expensive this time of year. Frozen vegetables are cheaper, I think I already have a few bags in my freezer already. Low fat cheese, the no fat stuff is horrid. I grab eggs and 1% milk. I don't like yogurt, well actually yogurt doesn't particularly like me so that's a no. A few frozen Lean Cuisine dinners. Chicken, fish, ok meat is taken care of. That's a really good deal on Entenmanns, walk quickly past the cheese danish. I've got to have something to go with the meat. Stuffing, no. mashed potatoes, no. Oh well I've got the frozen veggies.
I have to have something sweet or there is no way I'll stick to my diet. Back to the freezer section for Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches. Throw some Special K cracker chips in for when I feel like something crunchy. A few things from the pet food isle. Shopping is done. "That will be $85.32" the cashier says. What! I've only got three bags and half my paycheck is gone.
I measure out my cereal and write down every morsel that touches my lips. I scour the internet for low calorie recipes and deal with the dirty pots and pans. I drink a lot more water and have to get up three times during the night to use the bathroom. I pull out my favorite too tight jeans and hang them in view as a reminder.
I know how to lose weight, I've done it a thousand times. I can stick to a diet for a while and I'm happy when I see the numbers go down on the scale. I can even ignore the doughnuts sitting on the counter at work. Why can some people eat anything they want to and never gain a pound? It's just not fair. I've read that it's actually better to have a few extra pounds on you as you get older. You have a reserve in case you get sick. Curves are in right now. I can't afford new clothes.
It always seems that the neighbor starts baking when I'm on a diet. Did those cookies smell that good when I was able to help myself to a few? I work hard, I deserve that cookie. I'll go back on my diet tomorrow.
With great intentions I begin my jaunt around the store. I like vegetables, wow asparagus is really expensive this time of year. Frozen vegetables are cheaper, I think I already have a few bags in my freezer already. Low fat cheese, the no fat stuff is horrid. I grab eggs and 1% milk. I don't like yogurt, well actually yogurt doesn't particularly like me so that's a no. A few frozen Lean Cuisine dinners. Chicken, fish, ok meat is taken care of. That's a really good deal on Entenmanns, walk quickly past the cheese danish. I've got to have something to go with the meat. Stuffing, no. mashed potatoes, no. Oh well I've got the frozen veggies.
I have to have something sweet or there is no way I'll stick to my diet. Back to the freezer section for Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches. Throw some Special K cracker chips in for when I feel like something crunchy. A few things from the pet food isle. Shopping is done. "That will be $85.32" the cashier says. What! I've only got three bags and half my paycheck is gone.
I measure out my cereal and write down every morsel that touches my lips. I scour the internet for low calorie recipes and deal with the dirty pots and pans. I drink a lot more water and have to get up three times during the night to use the bathroom. I pull out my favorite too tight jeans and hang them in view as a reminder.
I know how to lose weight, I've done it a thousand times. I can stick to a diet for a while and I'm happy when I see the numbers go down on the scale. I can even ignore the doughnuts sitting on the counter at work. Why can some people eat anything they want to and never gain a pound? It's just not fair. I've read that it's actually better to have a few extra pounds on you as you get older. You have a reserve in case you get sick. Curves are in right now. I can't afford new clothes.
It always seems that the neighbor starts baking when I'm on a diet. Did those cookies smell that good when I was able to help myself to a few? I work hard, I deserve that cookie. I'll go back on my diet tomorrow.
Home Sweet Home
How on earth do you live in such a small space? It's not fair to your dogs to keep them cramped up in that tiny trailer. Why would you choose to live this way?
Think about the things you do on a normal day. You wake up on your side of the bed, make a trip to the bathroom and head into the kitchen for your first cup of coffee. You fix yourself a bowl of cereal and flip on the tv for the morning news. You might look out your window to in fact confirm that it is raining. You choose the clothes you're going to wear based on the weather, get dressed and head out the door to work.
I do exactly the same things. I have everything I need to live a comfortable life in my 28 foot travel trailer. The trip from bed to bathroom is about three feet, in an emergency that could be a good thing. I can sit in my office chair, check my e-mail and if I'm really lazy, turn around and reach the coffee pot without getting up. I bought a really nice recliner for the living room so I'd have a comfortable place to watch tv. The dogs love it, I've never used the damned thing.
Speaking of the dogs, think of your own dogs. Do they actually use the space in your 2000 square foot home. If you are in the kitchen, they are at your feet waiting for a scrap to fall. Watching tv? Your faithful friend is right by your side. I'd hope that they at least get to sleep in your bedroom if not with you. My pups like yours are where they want to be. With me.
Because of my lifestyle, I get to spend many more hours with my dogs than most of the population. Right now they have acres of land to run and play. In the summer they might have to spend more time on leash but they have lots of social contact with the guests and their dogs. As activities director I can include them in some of our events. The patriotic pots and pans parade was a hit with dogs dressed up in red, white, and blue. Gable rode beside me on the golf cart like a king.
Living and working on the same property has many benefits. I can always run home and change when my shirt gets covered with the chocolate pudding we used for "slip and slide". I can eat lunch at home. I never have to worry that my pups are crossing their legs holding it when I'm stuck in traffic. The cost of commuting is nonexistent. Factor in all that you spend on a normal day and you might understand how I can get by on $8.00 an hour. Consider my rent of $37 a week and no costs for utilities, cable or wifi and I might just convince you.
Winter is a different story as the hours are few and the cost of propane is high. Most workampers travel south as soon as the leaves change. I could have done that and may in the future. Not everybody is cut out to survive winter in an rv. It's a struggle but spring will be here soon
Think about the things you do on a normal day. You wake up on your side of the bed, make a trip to the bathroom and head into the kitchen for your first cup of coffee. You fix yourself a bowl of cereal and flip on the tv for the morning news. You might look out your window to in fact confirm that it is raining. You choose the clothes you're going to wear based on the weather, get dressed and head out the door to work.
I do exactly the same things. I have everything I need to live a comfortable life in my 28 foot travel trailer. The trip from bed to bathroom is about three feet, in an emergency that could be a good thing. I can sit in my office chair, check my e-mail and if I'm really lazy, turn around and reach the coffee pot without getting up. I bought a really nice recliner for the living room so I'd have a comfortable place to watch tv. The dogs love it, I've never used the damned thing.
Speaking of the dogs, think of your own dogs. Do they actually use the space in your 2000 square foot home. If you are in the kitchen, they are at your feet waiting for a scrap to fall. Watching tv? Your faithful friend is right by your side. I'd hope that they at least get to sleep in your bedroom if not with you. My pups like yours are where they want to be. With me.
Because of my lifestyle, I get to spend many more hours with my dogs than most of the population. Right now they have acres of land to run and play. In the summer they might have to spend more time on leash but they have lots of social contact with the guests and their dogs. As activities director I can include them in some of our events. The patriotic pots and pans parade was a hit with dogs dressed up in red, white, and blue. Gable rode beside me on the golf cart like a king.
Living and working on the same property has many benefits. I can always run home and change when my shirt gets covered with the chocolate pudding we used for "slip and slide". I can eat lunch at home. I never have to worry that my pups are crossing their legs holding it when I'm stuck in traffic. The cost of commuting is nonexistent. Factor in all that you spend on a normal day and you might understand how I can get by on $8.00 an hour. Consider my rent of $37 a week and no costs for utilities, cable or wifi and I might just convince you.
Winter is a different story as the hours are few and the cost of propane is high. Most workampers travel south as soon as the leaves change. I could have done that and may in the future. Not everybody is cut out to survive winter in an rv. It's a struggle but spring will be here soon
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Bucket list
We all have things we want to do at some point in our life. Somewhere around the age of 50 it becomes a little more important to actually check a few of these things off your list. Middle aged, that in itself is a strange term. I'm 53 and have no hope of living to be 106. I may qualify for AARP discounts but I'm certainly not a senior citizen. I was totally horrified the first time a McDonalds employee gave me the senior discount on my coffee. I convinced myself that to this 16 year old kid, anyone over 30 was a senior. It happened again at another store and this time the cashier was old. Older than me anyway. It might be the grey hair but I like my hair and honestly, I'm too lazy to keep up with coloring it every six weeks. I've had to resign myself to the reality that I'm no spring chicken but I have every intention of squawking loudly as long as I can. There is not a darned thing I could do at the age of 20 that I can't do now. Yes, I may pay for it with pain the next day but I can still do it.
I'm not sure where the term bucket list came from. I know that there was a movie titled The Bucket List but I'm pretty sure that I heard the term before the movie came out. I've always been a dreamer. As a dog groomer I mostly worked alone which gave me lots of time to fantasize about things I'd like to do in the future. Some of them may be a little less likely to happen now that I've reached middle age but not totally out of the question.
I enjoy traveling. Seeing new places and meeting new people. I've never had any real desire to leave the North American continent but that might be because I'd have to get on an airplane to do it. I have flown before and in an emergency I might do it again but the terror of getting on the plane would totally negate the fun of the trip. It might not be so bad if I were flying the plane. I don't know the pilot. Did he get enough rest last night? Did he just have a fight with his significant other? I'm also afraid of heights and airplanes go very high. Maybe being the pilot would not be such a good idea.
The first item on my bucket list is a bicycle tour from Florida to Maine. I've researched this trip a thousand times. I've even gone so far as to collect all the lightweight items I'd need to carry . Now I'd have to pull one of those neat little trailers so Cricket could come along, and Liza, she could come too. I read about people who have done this and some of them are older than I am. In better shape no doubt but I think I'd be in pretty good shape by the end of the trip. Picture this... A grey haired woman 50 pounds overweight on a bicycle with a cigarette in her hand towing a trailer with two Poodles in it. It could happen.
Trip to Alaska. Unless something out of my control happens, I will achieve this one. I plan on driving and camping on the way. All three dogs can come along. Money is the only thing preventing me from leaving as soon as the snow melts. A reliable vehicle that could get there in one piece is also an issue. My current van needs a bit of work but I think if I put a few bucks into it....
Vegas! I love to gamble. There is something about the noise that the slot machines make. The smoky room. The screams of joy you hear from across the room when somebody hits it big. I take very little money when I go. I'm happy playing the penny machines. I just want to hit enough to stay alive, I don't need the jackpot. It would be nice though.
All 49 states. I've traveled to more than most but there are still a lot that I have not been to. I want to stay off the interstate and drive down the two lane roads. Have potatoes in Idaho and cheese in Wisconsin. My Mother and I took just such a trip to Vermont. We saw a sign for an Alpaca farm and followed the tiny road. It turned out to be the high point of the trip.
Playing the part of Rose in the play Gypsy. Not on Broadway, that is just crazy. A community theatre would be just fine. I wanted to play Miss Hannigan from Annie too. I put the play on at the campground and fulfilled that one. There are very few roles for middle aged wannabees. There is always someone with more talent. I can dream though.
Workamping was a dream of mine too and one I can say I actually achieved. Living and working in a campground is neat. The guests are on vacation and generally happy. I get to live in a resort area, the work is fun and I make enough to get by. If I followed all the other workers and went south for the winter, I wouldn't have to struggle with the high cost of propane. I'm a sucker for punishment and I love the snow and the solitude. Maybe next year.
Showing my own Poodle until it achieves it's championship title. I love dog shows and both Deco and Cricket have been shown. One day I'll have a Poodle that can get those allusive fifteen points. I love my dogs regardless but just once I'd like to stand with the judge and photographer with the sign reading new champion.
I make up things as I go. A bucket list is not set in stone. I watched people enjoying skiing and decided I needed to try that. I took a lesson, my feet hurt and I was sore the next day but I can say I did it. I may have a new interest tomorrow. I'll throw myself into it wholeheartedly and if it works that's great. If not, I can always say I tried
I'm not sure where the term bucket list came from. I know that there was a movie titled The Bucket List but I'm pretty sure that I heard the term before the movie came out. I've always been a dreamer. As a dog groomer I mostly worked alone which gave me lots of time to fantasize about things I'd like to do in the future. Some of them may be a little less likely to happen now that I've reached middle age but not totally out of the question.
I enjoy traveling. Seeing new places and meeting new people. I've never had any real desire to leave the North American continent but that might be because I'd have to get on an airplane to do it. I have flown before and in an emergency I might do it again but the terror of getting on the plane would totally negate the fun of the trip. It might not be so bad if I were flying the plane. I don't know the pilot. Did he get enough rest last night? Did he just have a fight with his significant other? I'm also afraid of heights and airplanes go very high. Maybe being the pilot would not be such a good idea.
The first item on my bucket list is a bicycle tour from Florida to Maine. I've researched this trip a thousand times. I've even gone so far as to collect all the lightweight items I'd need to carry . Now I'd have to pull one of those neat little trailers so Cricket could come along, and Liza, she could come too. I read about people who have done this and some of them are older than I am. In better shape no doubt but I think I'd be in pretty good shape by the end of the trip. Picture this... A grey haired woman 50 pounds overweight on a bicycle with a cigarette in her hand towing a trailer with two Poodles in it. It could happen.
Trip to Alaska. Unless something out of my control happens, I will achieve this one. I plan on driving and camping on the way. All three dogs can come along. Money is the only thing preventing me from leaving as soon as the snow melts. A reliable vehicle that could get there in one piece is also an issue. My current van needs a bit of work but I think if I put a few bucks into it....
Vegas! I love to gamble. There is something about the noise that the slot machines make. The smoky room. The screams of joy you hear from across the room when somebody hits it big. I take very little money when I go. I'm happy playing the penny machines. I just want to hit enough to stay alive, I don't need the jackpot. It would be nice though.
All 49 states. I've traveled to more than most but there are still a lot that I have not been to. I want to stay off the interstate and drive down the two lane roads. Have potatoes in Idaho and cheese in Wisconsin. My Mother and I took just such a trip to Vermont. We saw a sign for an Alpaca farm and followed the tiny road. It turned out to be the high point of the trip.
Playing the part of Rose in the play Gypsy. Not on Broadway, that is just crazy. A community theatre would be just fine. I wanted to play Miss Hannigan from Annie too. I put the play on at the campground and fulfilled that one. There are very few roles for middle aged wannabees. There is always someone with more talent. I can dream though.
Workamping was a dream of mine too and one I can say I actually achieved. Living and working in a campground is neat. The guests are on vacation and generally happy. I get to live in a resort area, the work is fun and I make enough to get by. If I followed all the other workers and went south for the winter, I wouldn't have to struggle with the high cost of propane. I'm a sucker for punishment and I love the snow and the solitude. Maybe next year.
Showing my own Poodle until it achieves it's championship title. I love dog shows and both Deco and Cricket have been shown. One day I'll have a Poodle that can get those allusive fifteen points. I love my dogs regardless but just once I'd like to stand with the judge and photographer with the sign reading new champion.
I make up things as I go. A bucket list is not set in stone. I watched people enjoying skiing and decided I needed to try that. I took a lesson, my feet hurt and I was sore the next day but I can say I did it. I may have a new interest tomorrow. I'll throw myself into it wholeheartedly and if it works that's great. If not, I can always say I tried
Monday, March 3, 2014
Anxiety
I always cringe when I see a healthy looking person parking in the handicap area of a store. They look like they are perfectly capable of making the long walk from that spot where I parked in the back forty. That spot should be for an elderly person or one in a wheelchair. Then I remember that not all issues or illnesses are visible at first glance. That guy could be missing a leg lost fighting for our country. He could have a heart issue or be recovering from major surgery. He could just be a jerk using his Grandfathers car but is it really my place to judge? I don't know what they are going through and they in turn don't know the hidden problems I deal with.
We all have anxiety in certain situations. If you are facing something that is unknown or unpleasant it is perfectly normal to feel anxious. I don't know anyone who is not a little scared when the dentist comes toward you with a needle in his hand. The thought of telling your partner that you wrecked the car, yea that would do it as well. A presentation in front of hundreds of people would turn most peoples legs to Jello. Funny thing is, I love performing in front of an audience. That doesn't make me anxious at all.
I'm having a conversation with a client and can feel it coming on. The sweat starts beading up on my neck and I get the weird feeling that I'm watching the entire scenario from across the room. Do they notice me fidgeting? Are they aware that I'm trying to get the hell out of there before I do something embarrassing? If they are, they never let me know and somehow I get through it. Standing in line at the bank, or pumping gasoline into my van, does that make normal people anxious? Define normal
I have dealt with this for years and refuse to take medication as long as I can function without it. Only a few people even know I have this issue. I have hidden it so well that even close friends are totally surprised when I let them know about my "problem". My solution is to face those things that make me anxious head on in the hope that nothing bad will happen.
In my opinion anxiety is not the real problem. The fear of having an anxiety attack is much worse. I was driving home to New York after a visit to my Mother in Florida five years ago. I have always loved driving and have traveled thousands of miles with just a dog or two for company. I woke up early and the hotel had just put out the continental breakfast. I grabbed a few doughnuts and filled my travel mug with black coffee and hit the road. About three hours later, I could not control the wheel of my car because my hands were shaking so badly. I was stuck in rush hour traffic in Richmond Virginia and was frightened out of my mind. I pulled off the interstate and found a drugstore. I told the pharmacist on staff what had happened and she diagnosed low blood sugar. It was caused by the combination of too much caffeine and too much sugar. My blood pressure was sky high when I arrived but a bottle of orange juice and a half hour later, I was back to normal. I got back on the highway totally drained from the incident. I did stop for a good lunch and a caffeine free drink but I was beyond exhausted by the time I reached the twelve lanes in each direction chaos outside New York City. I could feel it coming on, the rumbling in my stomach, the sweat dripping down my forehead. I was having an anxiety attack of mammoth proportions and could not get off the interstate. Obviously I made it home alive or I would not be writing this but boy did it make an impact. I would not go near an interstate for a long time after that just because of fear of another attack.
Face it head on. Stick to roads I'd driven before, avoid big cities, it wasn't so hard. My closest friend needed a ride to the airport, there was nobody else who could take her. I think I can, I think I can. The ride there was uneventful, I rarely have issues when there is someone else in the car. Halfway across the long bridge out of Queens, it happened again . I rolled down the window even though it was freezing cold, turned the radio volume up and started singing like some kind of lunatic. It worked and I felt a sense of relief as I got on the familiar parkway home.
Face it head on, what better way to get over driving anxiety than by planning that cross country trip I'd always dreamed about. OK, it's still in the planning stage but I have made several long solo trips. I still get anxious at times, I still avoid large cities whenever possible but I know I can do it when the time comes.
We all have anxiety in certain situations. If you are facing something that is unknown or unpleasant it is perfectly normal to feel anxious. I don't know anyone who is not a little scared when the dentist comes toward you with a needle in his hand. The thought of telling your partner that you wrecked the car, yea that would do it as well. A presentation in front of hundreds of people would turn most peoples legs to Jello. Funny thing is, I love performing in front of an audience. That doesn't make me anxious at all.
I'm having a conversation with a client and can feel it coming on. The sweat starts beading up on my neck and I get the weird feeling that I'm watching the entire scenario from across the room. Do they notice me fidgeting? Are they aware that I'm trying to get the hell out of there before I do something embarrassing? If they are, they never let me know and somehow I get through it. Standing in line at the bank, or pumping gasoline into my van, does that make normal people anxious? Define normal
I have dealt with this for years and refuse to take medication as long as I can function without it. Only a few people even know I have this issue. I have hidden it so well that even close friends are totally surprised when I let them know about my "problem". My solution is to face those things that make me anxious head on in the hope that nothing bad will happen.
In my opinion anxiety is not the real problem. The fear of having an anxiety attack is much worse. I was driving home to New York after a visit to my Mother in Florida five years ago. I have always loved driving and have traveled thousands of miles with just a dog or two for company. I woke up early and the hotel had just put out the continental breakfast. I grabbed a few doughnuts and filled my travel mug with black coffee and hit the road. About three hours later, I could not control the wheel of my car because my hands were shaking so badly. I was stuck in rush hour traffic in Richmond Virginia and was frightened out of my mind. I pulled off the interstate and found a drugstore. I told the pharmacist on staff what had happened and she diagnosed low blood sugar. It was caused by the combination of too much caffeine and too much sugar. My blood pressure was sky high when I arrived but a bottle of orange juice and a half hour later, I was back to normal. I got back on the highway totally drained from the incident. I did stop for a good lunch and a caffeine free drink but I was beyond exhausted by the time I reached the twelve lanes in each direction chaos outside New York City. I could feel it coming on, the rumbling in my stomach, the sweat dripping down my forehead. I was having an anxiety attack of mammoth proportions and could not get off the interstate. Obviously I made it home alive or I would not be writing this but boy did it make an impact. I would not go near an interstate for a long time after that just because of fear of another attack.
Face it head on. Stick to roads I'd driven before, avoid big cities, it wasn't so hard. My closest friend needed a ride to the airport, there was nobody else who could take her. I think I can, I think I can. The ride there was uneventful, I rarely have issues when there is someone else in the car. Halfway across the long bridge out of Queens, it happened again . I rolled down the window even though it was freezing cold, turned the radio volume up and started singing like some kind of lunatic. It worked and I felt a sense of relief as I got on the familiar parkway home.
Face it head on, what better way to get over driving anxiety than by planning that cross country trip I'd always dreamed about. OK, it's still in the planning stage but I have made several long solo trips. I still get anxious at times, I still avoid large cities whenever possible but I know I can do it when the time comes.
Cats
I own a cat. Actually, I feed a cat would be a more accurate statement. I have a weakness for taking care of baby animals. I've fed numerous baby birds and squirrels. I even fed a tiny baby field mouse but his injuries were too severe to save. My best guess is that he escaped from a cat. Cats are by nature hunters, I cannot blame them for that. I raised a baby squirrel I named Barry. I released him at the vets office where I worked. He would come visit every day and take peanuts out of my hand. He had no fear of people or other animals since I found him before his eyes were open. My guess is that he was just being friendly when the cat killed him. I watched a cat torturing a chipmunk once. Said cat was having a ball batting the poor thing around. This cat was somebody's well fed pet, he had no interest in eating the chipmunk, he was just having fun. I chased him off and hopefully the chipmunk was able to recover from this horror.
Back to my cat. Here in the campground we have a storage area where old and damaged rvs go to die. The owners hired someone to tow the old trailers out and we went through them to see if there was anything we could use. In the bathtub of a mangled travel trailer were four kittens. They could not have been more than a week old. It was March and still quite cold so their chances of survival were slim to none. We took two of them to a rescue facility, a coworker took one and I kept the brown tabby because I loved his coloring.
I bottle fed him every few hours day and night and my dogs took him in as one of their own. Cricket would lick him clean and Gable would play so gently with the tiny kitten. I kept telling myself that since I had gotten him so early he would not be like those other cats. I named him Rueben because of the little cap on his head that looked like the ones the Jewish men wore. Life was good and I enjoyed sharing pictures and stories of my cute little kitten. I tried to keep him indoors but he was constantly trying to sneak out when I walked the dogs. He finally won that battle and would join us on our walks. The campground guests got a major kick out of the cat who acted like a dog. He would roll on his back for a belly rub and greet every passing dog like it was his friend. Dogs chase cats, even my dogs chase cats but not if they don't run away. Rueben fit right in.
I'm not really sure what happened but somewhere along the way Rueben became a cat. He demanded to be fed as soon as my eyes opened in the morning. Anything in his way to reaching the countertop food bowl was knocked to the ground. He would hit the door until I opened it to go out and climb up the screens to demand I let him in. 3:00 am was play time and not quiet let me sleep play time. More like break the glass, chew on my toes, climb the doors kind of stuff. He started spending more time outside and I started finding half eaten "presents" on my front porch. He refused to come when called. I know that this is just normal cat stuff but I am a dog person. My dogs do things that annoy me but all in all they try to please me. Rueben lives to please himself.
I take care of Rueben. He is well fed and lives a life that most animals would be lucky to have. He has a home with me as long as he lives. Would I give him up to someone who would adore all his catlike qualities? Absolutely,
does anyone want a cat?
Back to my cat. Here in the campground we have a storage area where old and damaged rvs go to die. The owners hired someone to tow the old trailers out and we went through them to see if there was anything we could use. In the bathtub of a mangled travel trailer were four kittens. They could not have been more than a week old. It was March and still quite cold so their chances of survival were slim to none. We took two of them to a rescue facility, a coworker took one and I kept the brown tabby because I loved his coloring.
I bottle fed him every few hours day and night and my dogs took him in as one of their own. Cricket would lick him clean and Gable would play so gently with the tiny kitten. I kept telling myself that since I had gotten him so early he would not be like those other cats. I named him Rueben because of the little cap on his head that looked like the ones the Jewish men wore. Life was good and I enjoyed sharing pictures and stories of my cute little kitten. I tried to keep him indoors but he was constantly trying to sneak out when I walked the dogs. He finally won that battle and would join us on our walks. The campground guests got a major kick out of the cat who acted like a dog. He would roll on his back for a belly rub and greet every passing dog like it was his friend. Dogs chase cats, even my dogs chase cats but not if they don't run away. Rueben fit right in.
I'm not really sure what happened but somewhere along the way Rueben became a cat. He demanded to be fed as soon as my eyes opened in the morning. Anything in his way to reaching the countertop food bowl was knocked to the ground. He would hit the door until I opened it to go out and climb up the screens to demand I let him in. 3:00 am was play time and not quiet let me sleep play time. More like break the glass, chew on my toes, climb the doors kind of stuff. He started spending more time outside and I started finding half eaten "presents" on my front porch. He refused to come when called. I know that this is just normal cat stuff but I am a dog person. My dogs do things that annoy me but all in all they try to please me. Rueben lives to please himself.
I take care of Rueben. He is well fed and lives a life that most animals would be lucky to have. He has a home with me as long as he lives. Would I give him up to someone who would adore all his catlike qualities? Absolutely,
does anyone want a cat? Sunday, March 2, 2014
Making a living
I am a workamper. I live in a travel trailer and work at the campground where it is parked. I've always loved camping and have had numerous different kinds of rvs. when I left my job at the veterinary hospital two years ago it was to fulfill a lifetime dream of traveling the country. It hasn't quite worked out the way I planned but I am seeing the country, just a little slower than originally planned.
My first workamping job was in Tamworth NH. I admit it was scary to leave a job I'd had for five years, all my friends, and a nice apartment. I had never seen the campground and knew no one. I was hired as a doggy day care attendant so I knew I'd enjoy the work. Cricket and Gable came along of course and spent their days with me in the half acre fenced dog park. Some days were chaotic but most of the dogs were great and I loved all the social contact. Chico was pretty much blind and spent most of his day inside my 17 foot travel trailer growling at everybody who came near. It was a great job and became even better when they asked me to fill in as Rec director two days a week. I invented treasure hunts for the kids and we did all kinds of crafts. We even put on a simple version of the play Annie with me playing Miss Hannigan and Gable as Sandy. The audience loved it for all it's mistakes. I traded my 17 footer in for a larger 33 foot trailer and set about remodeling it to suit my needs. I also picked up a grooming job nearby on my days off for extra spending money. Life was good. There was a major dispute between owners and managers and that changed a lot. I was pulled into the office to work as the season ended and was asked to stay on for the winter. Winter in NH is no picnic let me tell you but I learned a lot about winter camping. I drove down to Florida to spend the holidays with my family and came back to find my office job gone. The owners said I could stay rent free but I could not make enough to pay for living expenses and propane with just my part time grooming job. When my SUV burned up in a fire, it was time to move on.
I had kept in contact with the former managers and they offered me a position in the Pocono mountain area in Pennsylvania. I signed on as rec Director and had a great season doing crafts with the kids, hayrides, and all kinds of outdoor activities. I also pitched in with housekeeping and painted murals on the bathroom walls. Once again times were lean when the coldest winter this area has had in a hundred years was upon us. Luckily I made a few trips to New York to do some grooming and picked up a lodge maintenance job at the nearby ski resort so I'm able to get by.
I've signed on for another season here and then we'll see what happens. I have a high top van that I'm converting into a camper and would like to do a little bit more traveling. That bucket list trip to Alaska is going to happen but it might take me a while.
Gable with our first Workamper home
My first workamping job was in Tamworth NH. I admit it was scary to leave a job I'd had for five years, all my friends, and a nice apartment. I had never seen the campground and knew no one. I was hired as a doggy day care attendant so I knew I'd enjoy the work. Cricket and Gable came along of course and spent their days with me in the half acre fenced dog park. Some days were chaotic but most of the dogs were great and I loved all the social contact. Chico was pretty much blind and spent most of his day inside my 17 foot travel trailer growling at everybody who came near. It was a great job and became even better when they asked me to fill in as Rec director two days a week. I invented treasure hunts for the kids and we did all kinds of crafts. We even put on a simple version of the play Annie with me playing Miss Hannigan and Gable as Sandy. The audience loved it for all it's mistakes. I traded my 17 footer in for a larger 33 foot trailer and set about remodeling it to suit my needs. I also picked up a grooming job nearby on my days off for extra spending money. Life was good. There was a major dispute between owners and managers and that changed a lot. I was pulled into the office to work as the season ended and was asked to stay on for the winter. Winter in NH is no picnic let me tell you but I learned a lot about winter camping. I drove down to Florida to spend the holidays with my family and came back to find my office job gone. The owners said I could stay rent free but I could not make enough to pay for living expenses and propane with just my part time grooming job. When my SUV burned up in a fire, it was time to move on.
I had kept in contact with the former managers and they offered me a position in the Pocono mountain area in Pennsylvania. I signed on as rec Director and had a great season doing crafts with the kids, hayrides, and all kinds of outdoor activities. I also pitched in with housekeeping and painted murals on the bathroom walls. Once again times were lean when the coldest winter this area has had in a hundred years was upon us. Luckily I made a few trips to New York to do some grooming and picked up a lodge maintenance job at the nearby ski resort so I'm able to get by.
I've signed on for another season here and then we'll see what happens. I have a high top van that I'm converting into a camper and would like to do a little bit more traveling. That bucket list trip to Alaska is going to happen but it might take me a while.
Gable with our first Workamper home
Wild life
I live in a 28 foot travel trailer with my Poodles. At the moment it's about 20 degrees here in the Poconos but I'm warm looking out my big picture window. The campground is basically empty this time of year so my view is unobstructed. There's about three feet of snow still on the ground, hundreds of bare trees and a green wood chipper. No, that is not a rare bird, it's a piece of machinery that's parked on the lot next to mine. We have lots of wildlife though. Regular visits from several deer who eat the corn, bread, and birdseed my neighbor and I scatter daily. Birds of every size and color. Two feral cats who get into my trash on a regular basis. And we can't forget the skunks. They have been scarce this winter. Maybe it's a sign that spring is coming but last night two of my pups found one. I had just come home from my winter job at the ski resort. It was 10:30 at night and after our usual "Mommy you've been gone forever" snuggle, I opened the door and out they ran. It wasn't a minute later when I smelled it. Liza came running to me and I breathed a sigh of relief as I picked her up. One down two to go. Cricket was next and sure enough the strong smell of skunk was on her muzzle. I put her in the sink for a quick face wash with dish soap, toweled her off and called for Gable. Gabe is a big dog, so I don't worry about him as much. He's not likely to be carried off by a fox or bird of prey. He is likely to terrorize any small animal he can find. I have no doubt that he deserved it but that skunk got him good. The smell was burning my eyes, I can only imagine how it affected him. He was rubbing his face in the snow doing all that he could to make it go away. He came in and dived into the recliner. I grabbed him and tried my best to clean him up. I won't say that I didn't smell it anymore but it was at least bearable. I felt bad that he couldn't understand why Mommy didn't want a kiss goodnight.
I went in to work this afternoon and stopped by the bosses office for a quick hello before heading into the lodge. It wasn't five minutes later when she caught up with me. " I'm sorry, I have to send you home". "The entire office smells like skunk, I don't mean to offend you but you reek". Needless to say, tomorrow will be a deep clean and laundry day.
I went in to work this afternoon and stopped by the bosses office for a quick hello before heading into the lodge. It wasn't five minutes later when she caught up with me. " I'm sorry, I have to send you home". "The entire office smells like skunk, I don't mean to offend you but you reek". Needless to say, tomorrow will be a deep clean and laundry day.
Womans best friends
I love my dogs. Maybe because I never had children, my dogs are the first thing I think of when I make a decision about almost everything. I have had many dogs throughout the years that have made a major impact on who I am. There's no way I could mention all of them and most of these dogs shared my life together for periods of time.
Scooter was a 6 pound Maltese. He went to work with me every day when I was driving a mobile grooming van. He loved everybody and one year got more Christmas cards than I did. Whenever I would put my turn signal on, he would climb out of my lap to see where we were going. You could feel the excitement when we neared certain places. I couldn't figure out why he was whining on one occasion. I then realized we were nearing a Taco Bell. His favorite lunch was a soft taco with no lettuce. He was almost 17 when his heart gave out. I still tear up when I think of him.
Chico was as you can probably guess by the name a Chihuahua. He was gift from my business partner after my constant remarks about the tiny dog in the pet store window. Chico was so tiny as a puppy that I had to fashion a sweater from a sock to keep him warm in the Florida winter. He rode in my pocket and people would be shocked when his huge ears would pop out. Somewhere around the age of two, he decided that he hated people in general. He basically hated everything and even the largest dog would run from him. I think he loved me. I know he was excited to see me when I came home. We took a 3000 mile van camping trip one time. Chico hated car rides but we did kind of bond on that adventure. He lived to be 18 years old. I admired Chico, he had spunk.
Joey was the perfect dog. He was a gorgeous Golden Retriever with all the qualities one loves with the breed. Even Chico loved Joey. My favorite Joey memory was when he saved a little boy from drowning. Well, he thought he did. I was throwing sticks for him to retrieve at the beach when we heard a friends child yelling for help. Joey dropped the stick and swam to the child. He actually grabbed his waistband and dragged him to shore. Turns out, the kid was not actually in danger but it amazes me that he knew what to do. When we moved to Connecticut we lived in a camper van for a while. The children at the campground would come over and ask if Joey could come out to play. They taught him how to play soccer. He would swim out to the floating dock, climb up the ladder and dive off again and again. What a fun dog. We moved into an New York suburb apartment in a sketchy neighborhood soon after. We were out for a late night walk one night and Joey suddenly crossed in front of me and growled. I couldn't have been more shocked. I then saw the young guy backing away from his bared teeth. I can only imagine what could have happened. Joey died of cancer at the age of eight.
I had always loved Poodles and had several growing up. Deco was a 70 pound Standard sized gentleman. He had an air about him that everybody noticed. He had his day in the show ring but was happiest when he could run free in the woods. Deco was leader of the pack and I loved him dearly. I lost him to stomach cancer when he was only 7 years old.
I got Cricket quite by accident. A friend fell in love with a brown Poodle who came to the vets office where I worked. She found one online for free because the nine month old puppy had a bad leg. She named the dog Bonbon and had the needed x-rays and surgery to fix the leg. I groomed Bonbon a few weeks later and realized that she was pregnant. We called the previous owner and she admitted that she was in heat when she sent her and she had a male toy Poodle as well. The vet said that there would be no way that the puppies would be viable and recommended that we spay her immediately. I talked my friend into waiting a few more days and she delivered three healthy pups. I kept Bonbon and the pups until they were old enough to go to new homes. Cricket was the smallest and not as healthy and I just couldn't bear to see her go. Five years later I have not spent a single night without her snuggled beside me.
Gable is now four years old and is a Brown Standard Poodle. He is lovable and goofy. He answers to Moose which is what he looks like and Dufus which is what he acts like. Not a mean bone in his body and like Deco, he lives to run free in the woods.
Last but not least is Liza. She is Crickets puppy and now 7 months old. Liza is my black sheep of the family. She has selective hearing but is smart as a whip. I've never had a dog that was so excited to see me when I get home. She literally squeals with delight. I'm so lucky to have such great friends.
Deco aged seven with Cricket aged nine months.
Scooter was a 6 pound Maltese. He went to work with me every day when I was driving a mobile grooming van. He loved everybody and one year got more Christmas cards than I did. Whenever I would put my turn signal on, he would climb out of my lap to see where we were going. You could feel the excitement when we neared certain places. I couldn't figure out why he was whining on one occasion. I then realized we were nearing a Taco Bell. His favorite lunch was a soft taco with no lettuce. He was almost 17 when his heart gave out. I still tear up when I think of him.
Chico was as you can probably guess by the name a Chihuahua. He was gift from my business partner after my constant remarks about the tiny dog in the pet store window. Chico was so tiny as a puppy that I had to fashion a sweater from a sock to keep him warm in the Florida winter. He rode in my pocket and people would be shocked when his huge ears would pop out. Somewhere around the age of two, he decided that he hated people in general. He basically hated everything and even the largest dog would run from him. I think he loved me. I know he was excited to see me when I came home. We took a 3000 mile van camping trip one time. Chico hated car rides but we did kind of bond on that adventure. He lived to be 18 years old. I admired Chico, he had spunk.
Joey was the perfect dog. He was a gorgeous Golden Retriever with all the qualities one loves with the breed. Even Chico loved Joey. My favorite Joey memory was when he saved a little boy from drowning. Well, he thought he did. I was throwing sticks for him to retrieve at the beach when we heard a friends child yelling for help. Joey dropped the stick and swam to the child. He actually grabbed his waistband and dragged him to shore. Turns out, the kid was not actually in danger but it amazes me that he knew what to do. When we moved to Connecticut we lived in a camper van for a while. The children at the campground would come over and ask if Joey could come out to play. They taught him how to play soccer. He would swim out to the floating dock, climb up the ladder and dive off again and again. What a fun dog. We moved into an New York suburb apartment in a sketchy neighborhood soon after. We were out for a late night walk one night and Joey suddenly crossed in front of me and growled. I couldn't have been more shocked. I then saw the young guy backing away from his bared teeth. I can only imagine what could have happened. Joey died of cancer at the age of eight.
I had always loved Poodles and had several growing up. Deco was a 70 pound Standard sized gentleman. He had an air about him that everybody noticed. He had his day in the show ring but was happiest when he could run free in the woods. Deco was leader of the pack and I loved him dearly. I lost him to stomach cancer when he was only 7 years old.
I got Cricket quite by accident. A friend fell in love with a brown Poodle who came to the vets office where I worked. She found one online for free because the nine month old puppy had a bad leg. She named the dog Bonbon and had the needed x-rays and surgery to fix the leg. I groomed Bonbon a few weeks later and realized that she was pregnant. We called the previous owner and she admitted that she was in heat when she sent her and she had a male toy Poodle as well. The vet said that there would be no way that the puppies would be viable and recommended that we spay her immediately. I talked my friend into waiting a few more days and she delivered three healthy pups. I kept Bonbon and the pups until they were old enough to go to new homes. Cricket was the smallest and not as healthy and I just couldn't bear to see her go. Five years later I have not spent a single night without her snuggled beside me.
Gable is now four years old and is a Brown Standard Poodle. He is lovable and goofy. He answers to Moose which is what he looks like and Dufus which is what he acts like. Not a mean bone in his body and like Deco, he lives to run free in the woods.
Last but not least is Liza. She is Crickets puppy and now 7 months old. Liza is my black sheep of the family. She has selective hearing but is smart as a whip. I've never had a dog that was so excited to see me when I get home. She literally squeals with delight. I'm so lucky to have such great friends.
Deco aged seven with Cricket aged nine months.
Who am I?
I'll never forget chatting with a woman in a bar in New York City. After a nice talk about nothing she asked me "So what are you"? I had no idea what she wanted to know. Turns out that she was questioning my nationality which in itself seemed strange to me. "German, Irish, French, English, Chickasaw Indian, I'm a mutt". "Oh, she said, you're not Italian.", End of conversation.
I guess that was important to her but it got me thinking about how to describe myself. I was a dog groomer for over thirty years, that was my occupation. I'm obsessed with my three Poodles that describes what I love. I'm unstable but hardworking, innovative and artistic. I have no sense of humor but people find me funny. I enjoy life even in circumstances that almost everybody would find completely unbearable. Rose colored glasses, I'm just like my father. Life is meant to be lived and caution to the wind, I never want to say I wish I had. My poor Mother, Virgo that she is, worries about me constantly but even she admits I always manage to dig myself out of even the deepest hole and smiling all the way up. I'm me and at 53 years old it's unlikely I'm going to change.
I guess that was important to her but it got me thinking about how to describe myself. I was a dog groomer for over thirty years, that was my occupation. I'm obsessed with my three Poodles that describes what I love. I'm unstable but hardworking, innovative and artistic. I have no sense of humor but people find me funny. I enjoy life even in circumstances that almost everybody would find completely unbearable. Rose colored glasses, I'm just like my father. Life is meant to be lived and caution to the wind, I never want to say I wish I had. My poor Mother, Virgo that she is, worries about me constantly but even she admits I always manage to dig myself out of even the deepest hole and smiling all the way up. I'm me and at 53 years old it's unlikely I'm going to change.
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