Jacksonville Vacation Hotspots

Visit Jacksonville, Florida and the Osceola National Forest

Jacksonville, Florida is an excellent city for a southern vacation. The city offers visitors a wide variety of activities to enjoy. From fine dining to outdoor recreation, Jacksonville has something for everyone.

The city is one of the largest, in area, in the continental United States. Jacksonville covers over 840 square miles. the only city that is larger is Anchorage, Alaska. Within this city there are a wide variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy relaxing at a spa. Jacksonville also has plenty of shopping opportunities, including malls and fun boutiques. In addition, Jacksonville has plenty of fine dining, with fresh seafood and more. After spending a day enjoy the city, visitors can also enjoy the exciting nightlife of the city.

Jacksonville, in addition to having a large area, also has thousands of acres of parks and preserves. The city covers area on three rivers, including the St. Johns River. Between the rivers and the the parks, there are numerous options for recreation. Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve has trail and wildlife watching opportunities. Visitors can also hike to the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which commemorates Florida’s French colonists. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a great destination for mountain biking in Florida, and it also has a beautiful beach.

Visitors to Jacksonville will love the miles of beaches. There are over 20 miles of beaches for visitors to Jacksonville to explore. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is a boardwalk, great for walking and views of the coast. Jacksonville Beach’s beautiful white sands are another popular destination to enjoy all of the fun of the Florida coast.

Travelers can enjoy all different types of water recreation, including surfing, swimming and more. Wildlife watching cruises are another way to enjoy the Florida coast, and can include views of dolphins, manatees and sea birds. The beaches also provide access to golf courses. Visitors can also enjoy taking a trolley ride to Jacksonville’s beach neighborhoods.

The beautiful Osceola National Forest is also a great destination for visitors to Jacksonville. The forest covers almost 200,000 acres in northern Florida. This National Forest preserves beautiful woodland and swamp ecosystems, which include cypress, bay swamps, longleaf pine and a great place for RVers and tent campers.

Visitors to the Osceola National Forest can enjoy plenty of recreation, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, swimming and more. Ocean Pond is a great lake destination within the forest, which is a great destination for swimming, boating, fishing and more. The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the Osceola National Forest, is a great option for hiking. The trail passes through the forests many beautiful ecosystems, including streams. Many of the streams on the trail have bridges for crossing, but some still require a little wading during the rainy season.

Jacksonville and the nearby Osceola National Forest is a great vacation destination for all not because I live here but, because it truly is a unique place.  Located in northern Florida Jacksonville has great beaches, and lots of beautiful outdoor recreation. Visitors will enjoy the white sand beaches, the hiking and other recreation in the forest and city’s acres of parks and preserves. Jacksonville has a little something for everyone.

National Park Overview:

Nearly two hundred thousand acres of the original Florida are waiting to be explored in the Osceola National Forest. These forested woodlands and swamps provide many opportunities for a wide range of visitor experiences such as camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and many more. Some recreational activities require a pass or permit.This “flatwoods” forest is a mosaic of low pine ridges separated by cypress and bay swamps. Visitors enjoy quiet, peaceful woodlands named in honor of the famous Seminole Indian warrior, Osceola.Created by Presidential proclamation July 10, 1931, this new “forest” had been cutover and heavily burned. A management plan was developed that focused on establishing new growth through reforestation. Fire controls were implemented to ensure the survival of the young trees. During the 1940’s a new concept, prescribed burning, was developed, and managed fires began to be used to reduce the fuels and lessen the threat of wildfire. In the 1960’s, management in the USDA Forest Service national forests was expanded from managing primarily for timber production to include managing for range, water, recreation, and wildlife, with an emphasis on the “multiple use” of forest resources. Wise stewardship has left the Osceola National Forest with an abundance of natural and cultural resources. Today the forest is managed for multiple uses on an ecological basis with the mission of “Caring for the Land and Serving People.”

Camping:
	Ocean Pond CampgroundOcean Pond Campground is located on the north side of Ocean Pond, a 1760-acre natural lake. Sixty-seven campsites are available for tents, trailers, or motor homes. Many of these campsites are waterfront sites allowing guests to enjoy the water or fish right from their campsite. A beach area, boat ramp, drinking water, hot showers, and flush toilets are located in the campground. No sewer hookups are available; however, a sewage dump station is located near the campground entrance. Electrical hookups are available at 19 of the sites. Fees vary from $8.00 to $18.00 depending on campsite.Hunt Camps Hunting is a very popular activity on the Osceola National Forest. General gun season runs from mid November to early January and during that time all camping is restricted to designated hunt camps and Ocean Pond Campground. A total of nine hunt camps are located on the forest and are open year round to the public. Two of the hunt camps have toilet and water facilities year round and toilets are provided at the remaining seven camps during the hunting season. Primitive Camping Primitive camping is allowed anywhere on the national forest except at Olustee Beach. However, camping is restricted to designated hunt camps and Ocean Pond Campground during hunting season. A primitive camp shelter is located along the Florida National Scenic Trail and is available on a first come first served basis. Group camping Large families and small groups will enjoy the secluded ?Landing Group Area? which is available by reservation only. A maximum of 50 persons is allowed at this area where your group may enjoy swimming, boating, camping, picnicking, or just visiting with friends and family. Facilities include a sand beach, boat launch for small boats, picnic shelter, large group grill, and restrooms with showers. Reservation can be made by calling the Osceola Ranger District Office at (386) 752-2577. The fee is $50.00 per 24-hour period.
Trails:
	Florida National Scenic TrailA 23 mile section of the Florida National Scenic Trail meanders its way through the Osceola National Forest. There are 20 boardwalks located on this section of the hiking trail that offer a drier view of swamps and wetland habitat. A primitive camp shelter is located along the Florida National Scenic Trail and is available on a first come first served basis. The trail also passes through the Olustee Battlefield. Olustee Battlefield is a state Historic Site where Confederate soldiers pushed back Union troops in route to Tallahassee. A reenactment of this historic event is held each February.Located at the Battlefield is an accessible portion of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The Nice Wander Loop Trail consists of 3 loops of 0.9 miles, 1.2 miles and 2.1 miles that are accessible with assistance. From the trailhead parking area the trail follows an old road past the fire tower and through an open picnic area of the Olustee Battlefield Museum. The trail then passes through lovely pine flatwoods to the top of the loop. Watch for the white-ringed trees indicating Red-Cockaded Woodpecker nesting sites. Olustee Battlefield Trail The Olustee Battlefield Trail lets you discover what life was like for soldiers who fought in the Battle of Olustee. This loop trail walks you through the events that led up to the battle, the tactics used during the battle, and the aftermath, all from personal accounts, diaries and letters from soldiers who fought in the battle. Trampled Track Trail A short .1-mile barrier-free historic trail is located at Olustee Beach. This trail shows the history of a sawmill and community that thrived along the shores of Ocean Pond at the turn of the century. Mt. Carrie Trail Visitors can stop at the Mt. Carrie Wayside and discover a new experience along the one-mile barrier free trail. This is a place where unique species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker and the gopher tortoise make their homes. One has to only search for sounds and enjoy the beauty while standing in this longleaf pine forest.
Fishing and Hunting:
	The Osceola National Forest is a wildlife management area, in which the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission manage hunting and fishing activities. A $26.50 Wildlife Management Area Permit is required for all hunters (except those indicated as exempt) to hunt in this area. A Quota Hunt Permit may also be required during certain time periods or for certain game species. General hunting information may be found on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission?s website, or in the current Hunting Handbook available at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Office or their various subagents. For specific regulations that pertain only to the Osceola Wildlife Management.Freshwater fishing is available in the streams and ponds of the Osceola National Forest. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission also regulates fishing and produces a Fishing Handbook that outlines specific rules, bag limits, licensing, and health advisories. This handbook is available at the same locations as the Hunting Handbook.Hunting and Fishing licenses and permits for residents and nonresidents are available at county tax collector?s offices and their sub-agents, such as sporting goods stores or other retailers selling hunting and fishing equipment. 1-888-HUNT-FLORIDA or 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA. If you decide to vacation in Jacksonville stop by General RV Center and say hi. Barbara Andrews.

Shipping Container Home

Business is Booming with Shipping Container Homes

If you are interested in off-grid living and want to spend less money than you would for an RV then you might want to consider this option. Some of these home can be quite fancy or as rugged as you want. Steel shipping containers are the temporary homes of countless consumer items being transported all around the world. Items are packed into the cargo containers in their country of origin, then shipped to wherever they’re destined to be sold. Once they’re emptied at the appropriate port, many of these cargo containers simply sit around empty or get melted down for re-use. But recently, they’ve found new lives as homes and other types of buildings.

Perhaps the two most appealing aspects of building with shipping containers are the affordability and the green construction factor: shipping container homes are far less expensive than new-material traditional homes, and reusing them rather than melting them down significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the steel containers. Shipping container homes have been constructed in London, Scotland, Amsterdam Canada and New Zealand, and the eco-friendly trend has recently caught on in the U.S. The steel cargo containers are nearly indestructible, and provide a frame that is mold, fire and termite-proof and structurally superior to wood framing.

What’s more, the containers can be found in every port in the world. Eighteen million ISO containers are manufactured to specifications from the International Organization for Standardization and are used worldwide to transport products on ships. Once the containers are unloaded at docks they are typically left there, since it’s expensive to ship them back to their point of launch. In 2006 alone, the U.S. acquired 7.5 million shipping containers from China and returned just 3.5 million. The leftover 9,000 ton steel containers typically get melted down, which takes 1,000 kilowatt hours of energy per pound.

Steel shipping containers as a construction material are practical and affordable, and a superior solution to 2012 alignment for shelter. The benefits of building with shipping containers are numerous but at the top of the list are: structural superiority, affordability, durability, aesthetics that subscribe to our contemporary era, and the ease by which prefabricated buildings can be created with containers and then moved about. In general, traditional construction is too slow, too expensive, too wasteful and too antiquated.

Container-based homes are usually constructed at a cost of about 60% to 70% of a traditional home. Depending upon the location, construction times can be as little as two weeks for a smaller prefabricated structures, or six to eight months for larger residential projects. And these buildings have a lifespan that far exceeds traditional construction. By recycling shipping containers we gain the benefits of working with steel without contributing to any adverse environmental impact from the production of new steel.

Ecopods claim to not only be thinking outside the box; they’re re-inventing the box. These small, eco-friendly structures are designed to be used as add-ons or temporary use buildings, such as guest bedrooms or home offices. But it’s easy to imagine using it as a primary residence, as long as you don’t mind living in a small space. The cargo container buildings are designed to be off-grid and as ecologically sound as possible, incorporating recycled and recyclable material. The pods can be moved just about anywhere with ease, and the hydraulic-powered deck/door is designed to keep the structure very secure when it’s not in use.
Canadian group BARK Collective wanted to show the world what great Canadian design is all about. They came up with a remarkable cabin that can be packed up and shipped on a train, a truck, a ship, an airplane or a helicopter while being unrecognizable as anything other than a shipping container. But once at its destination, it opens up into a comfortable, if rather small, living environment. There are accommodations for a family of four and one pet to live off the grid in style. Now that is truly AWESOME! Barbara Andrews.

Jacksonville RV Show

Thank you Jacksonville for another successful year!  The Jacksonville RV Show had a huge turnout Saturday.  Sunday is expected to be the same. RV Shows are the best time of year to get the family out and share that camping dream,  see what is new or changes that have been made. You can shop till you literally drop because there are so many to go through. It is the time to really just look without pressure from a sales person. Factory Reps are on hand to answer any questions that a sales consultant can’t.  Here are a few pictures for those that could not make it. If you change your mind, see you tomorrow.

Pet campers are like no other. They are very social, calm, and well mannered.

Some like to strike a pose.

Rebecca is our receptionist and to pretty to be the bag lady…he he.

Reuben and new members to the General RV Family.

Jack closing the deal.

Anheuser-Busch clydesdales chilling in the back arena.

Field Of Dreams.

The Mack Daddy Toy Hauler, Road Warrior.

Prime Time Lacrosse A big seller.

I will have more on the RV Show later. Barbara Andrews.

Fuel Efficient Motorhomes

Imagine what you could do with a vehicle that has the spacious comfort and convenience of a larger motorhome but with much better fuel economy and drive ability. Whether driving cross-country or just cross-town, enjoy the convenience of having your own kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedroom in a vehicle that fits in a normal parking space.

You will love to drive any one of the Tioga or Jamboree 24ft DSL Class C. Both are powered by a Mercedes Benz^® 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo diesel engine, on the nimble Sprinter chassis for an extraordinary driving experience, admirable fuel-efficiency and outstanding comfort. With its contemporary styling and clean lines, both the Tioga DSL and Jamboree DSL has been created for connoisseurs of modern design. The bold exterior styling from front cap to end cap will cause heads to turn wherever you go. Both models are rated for 20 miles per gallon fuel consumption with a sleeping capacity of 4 people. If you are going to cruise America, this would definitely save money on fuel.

The Fleetwood RV Construction

1. Fleetwood’s Tuff-Ply Roofing Technology is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market and also resists radiation by reflecting sunlight to reduce chalking. White roof material minimizes heat build-up, keeping the temperature cool and comfortable.

2. Reliable Tuffpex Plumbing runs throughout each vehicle creating a durable seal on all internal tubing. TuffPEX plumbing is tough, can withstand cold temperatures, is flexible and corrosion resistant. The TuffPEX system is an industry leader in quality plumbing.

3. Tuff-Coat^® Fiberglass Composite resists UV rays, cracks and impacts. Fleetwood uses one seamless, solid piece of exclusive Tuff-Coat^® fiberglass composite for each outer wall.

4. Vacu-Bond^® Sidewalls, Floors And Ceilings ensure a strong, weather-resistant structure, framed in aluminum or steel. The Vacu-bond^® process is unmatched by many competitors.

5. High Density Block Foam Insulation is precisely cut to fit between framing members. This insures maximum insulation throughout the vehicle.

Fleetwood RV has been building motorhomes and helping adventurers see the world for several generations. Fleetwood RV, is a leading manufacturer of Class A and Class C recreational vehicles. The Company has one of the best and longest standing distribution networks in the industry.  Also is my favorite motorhome.

P.S. All local Jacksonvillian’s  Don’t forget about the Big RV Show 9th thru 12th @ the Jacksonville Equestrian Center 13611 Normandy Blvd Jacksonville, Florida. There number is 904 573-3150. Hope to see you there!!  Barbara Andrews.

Solar RVs On The Road

Why Install Solar Panels for RV?

The Recreational Vehicle (RV) allows you to stay wherever you want without any worrying about hotel bookings and changing your next destination at your own will. In fact, you are free to drive the vehicle wherever you want. However, you are often restricted to the nearest camp, as you need to recharge your vehicle’s battery. In addition, you may use your vehicle’s battery to charge your other appliances on regularly basis. It is important to know that regularly draining your vehicle’s battery may reduce its life. However, you can save your vehicle’s battery from being damaged and even save your time and move ahead towards your destination by purchasing a solar panel for RV.

Solar panels for RV’s are easy to pack, as they are flexible and light in weight. Generally, a single RV solar panel is able to generate about 70 to 90 watts of electric power. It is more than enough for your 25ft RV, however if you have more number of small electric appliances, then you may have to build a higher capacity of solar panel. it is better to install a single solar panel in your RV at the initial stage and then install few more on the basis of your requirements.

If you are a regular traveler during summer, then you have to consider a few things. First, you have to fit a solar panel for RV along with battery temperature controller to control the temperature of your vehicle’s battery and second, if you install solar panels at the roof, then it is important to have a solar panel that has a rating of minimum 17 volts to bear the excessive heat.

The independence it gives you, the comfort of being at home no matter where you go and so much more. Up until now, RV owners have generally used gas generators for power or have paid for an electrical connection at places where they stop. These last comes at around $20 a night and can spell quite a bit in terms of expenditure in the long run. A great alternative instead would be solar panels for RV. There are a range of RV solar panels to choose from. The small ones are those that can help charge the smaller batteries around your RV. The bigger ones are those that can power up your entire RV. This includes high wattage appliances like the TV, satellite connection, a microwave and any other electronics that you have on board.

The main advantage of solar panels for RV are that they will serve their purpose even in the most remotest of locations and even when you have to make unscheduled stops in the middle of nowhere for a break. Different panel sizes are available from around 65 watt panels all the way up to 130 watts. These RV solar panels are available in a range of mounts allowing you to permanently fix them to the top of your RV. There are also those that come with strong suction cups and these can easily be removed for maintenance work and remounted.

You don’t have to worry about these panels once they are mounted. They are strong and can stand all sorts of rough weather. Solar panels for your RV are also shock resistant panels. A lot of work has been done on this technology and today they are much lighter in weight and much more effective. In terms of price as well, you can now get yourself a kit for approximately $1000 to $4000 depending on what system or power you want. The expense may seem high, but it will pay for it self in the long run.

Besides the lighting benefits of solar panels for RVs, there are a few other ways in which they work well. They are great for those camping sites where generators are not allowed. There is absolutely no noise emitted from these panels. This makes them very eco-friendly. The fact that they come with a battery backup means that you will be able to have power even on the most cloudy days. Also considering there is a huge variety of panels available you will find use for them on campsites, to charge batteries, cell phones, a portable radio as well as flashlights. A solar panel can be used along with other means of power generation.

Once you take on this project, you will find that buying solar panels is not all that difficult, as there are a range of retailers selling panels in every conceivable size and shape. You will just have to assess your needs and decide on your purchases accordingly. Each retailer will have a different price for the solar panels that they sell. The best bet is to go online and check on the availability. The kind of discounts available there are unmatchable.

A solar power battery charger is also something you should pick up. Remember that these batteries will be exposed to a great variety of temperatures and they should be maintained accordingly. The best way to get the most out of your RV solar panels is to lay them at an angle on the top of your RV. This will get them working brilliantly at normal temperatures. Laying them flat can cause a power fluctuation.

Understanding how RV solar panels work will help you have a better understanding of how good the product can be. These panels convert the rays of the sun into electricity. This is done through the batteries that are incorporated in these mechanisms. The great thing about solar panels on an RV is that you are no longer limited to a range of destinations that have great sunshine or electricity. Your travel horizon is significantly expanded. Of course, the cost too comes down significantly. Their convenience is undeniable in terms of freedom of movement as well as the savings you will make on electricity connections at RV camps.  Barbara Andrews.

Family Campers Loving Life!

Strengthen Family Relationships

Whether you are tent camping or RV camping the results are the same. Today’s fast-paced life often leaves busy parents searching for opportunities to spend quality time together as a family. Increasingly, families are discovering that vacationing in an RV is the best way to cement family relationships while having a great time. Bringing the family closer together was the top answer for parents when asked what are the most important benefits of family RV camping. Other highly ranked responses were providing a learning experience, teaching kids to respect nature, broadening their horizons, and developing wholesome values.

In a recent research study conducted by Louis Harris and Associates, nine out of 10 current RV owners said RVs are the best way to travel with the family. Perhaps even more significant, 62 percent of survey respondents who have never owned an RV said they also thought that an RV is the best way to take a family trip.

Why do RVs appeal to so many families? Most importantly, RVs allow parents to reestablish relationships with their children by removing life’s daily distractions. On an RV trip, families are not faced with the interruptions of routine home life, yet they have all the comforts of home. RVing families are able to enjoy each others company and kids are free to be themselves, without the distraction of soccer practice, swim team or piano lessons. Owning an RV also means every weekend can be a vacation, allowing quick getaways with minimal preparation and planning.

It takes a lot of energy to cope with the hectic pace of everyday life. The entire family has to have time to put everything on hold, except the family relationship. The RV provides the means to hit the road, leave the daily routine and enjoy quality time together. Many parents also supplement their children’s learning during their RV travels.  43 percent of families cite visiting a historic location for educational purposes. Science and nature centers, zoos and museums were also frequently mentioned. The RV provides the means to hit the road, leave the daily routine and enjoy quality time together.   Barbara Andrews

The Ultimate RV Downsize

Talk about innovative, this shopping cart pop-up would have to take the prize.  Shelter comes in many shapes and sizes as you can see but I totally get it. If our economy continues to decline we will see more of the camper kart pop-ups.

State of Homelessness in America 2011

Since the release of Homelessness Counts: Changes in Homelessness from 2005 to 2007, the Alliance has chronicled changes in the levels of homelessness in the nation and in individual states and communities to chart the progress toward the goal of ending homelessness. This comprehensive examination not only reveals national and state level homeless counts, but also delves into economic indicators and demographic drivers – taking an in-depth look at risk factors for homelessness. Built upon the most recent nationally available data from the federal Departments of Housing and Urban Development, Health and Human Services, Justice, and other public information sources, this report analyzes the effect the recession has had on homelessness and how it has contributed to an increased risk of homelessness for many Americans.

• The nation’s homeless population increased by approximately 20,000 people from 2008 to 2009 (3 percent increase). There were also increased numbers of people experiencing homelessness in each of the subpopulations examined in this report: families, individuals, chronic, unsheltered.
• A majority – 31 of 50 states and the District of Columbia – had increases in their homeless counts. The largest increase was in Louisiana, where the homeless population doubled.
• Among subpopulations, the largest percentage increase was in the number of family households, which increased by over 3,200 households (4 percent increase). Also, the number of persons in families increased by more than 6,000 people (3 percent increase). In Mississippi, the number of people in homeless families increased by 260 percent.
• After population reductions from 2005 to 2008, the number of chronically homeless people in the country remained stagnant from 2008 to 2009, despite an 11 percent increase in the number of permanent supportive housing units.
• While most people experiencing homelessness are sheltered, nearly 4 in 10 were living on the street, in a car, or in another place not intended for human habitation. In Wisconsin, twice as many people experienced homelessness without shelter in 2009 as did in 2008.
• It is widely agreed upon that there is a vast undercount of the number of young people experiencing homelessness. Underscoring this is the fact that 35 percent of all communities reported that there were no homeless youth in their communities in 2009.

In recognition of the reality that homelessness is most often caused by job loss and other economic factors, this report explores economic indicators for homeless people and people at risk of homelessness. The economic indicators examined in this report point to worsening conditions across the nation and all states. Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and RealtyTrac, this report chronicles the changes in four economic indicators from 2008 to 2009.

Half of all states have multiple risk factors for increased homelessness; that is, they have rates worse than the national average on at least two of five indicators (unemployment, foreclosure, doubled up, housing cost burden, lack of health insurance).
• The presence of multiple economic and demographic risk factors is associated with higher rates of homelessness. In particular, states with high rates of cost burden among poor households exhibit higher rates of homelessness. Ten of the fourteen states with rates of homelessness greater than the national rate also have levels of cost burden greater than the national average.
• California, Florida, and Nevada – states known to have been disproportionately impacted by the recent housing crisis – have both high rates of homelessness and high levels of unemployment, foreclosure, housing cost burden, lack of insurance, and doubling up.

These findings project a disquieting picture of what depressed wages, stagnant unemployment, unrelenting housing cost burden, and the lagging pace of the economic recovery could bring about: increases in homelessness and heightened risk of homelessness for more and more Americans. As the new Congress and the Administration consider steps to revitalize the American economy with jobs, extension of benefits, and access to health care, it would be prudent to take note of these increased risk factors and incorporate homeless interventions into their recovery strategy.

As I have mentioned before their are more first time RV buyers than ever before. It is a very hard choice to give up your big home to downsize to an RV or Tiny House for shelter, and I feel for you but times are changing and if we are going to survive we must change with the times until it gets better.  Barbara Andrews.

Living Large In A Tiny Home

American Innovation!  Give us lemons and we will make lemon-aid with a Tiny Home.

Another option for full time RV’ers or any one that wants to down size. There’s a movement in tiny homes on wheels sweeping the nation. The real estate collapse, the economic downturn, burning out on 12-hour workdays – many people are rethinking their ideas about shelter – seeking an alternative to high rents, or a lifelong mortgage debt to a bank on an overpriced home. Many people have lost their homes and living with family members. Americans are fed up and doing something about it.

There are over 150 builders who have taken building homes to another level, creating tiny homes (under 500 sq. ft.). Homes on land, homes on wheels, homes on the road. There are over a thousand photos, showing a rich variety of small homemade shelters, and there are stories (and thoughts and inspirations) of the owner-builders who are on the forefront of this new trend in downsizing and self-sufficiency. Some are living utility free with solar power and well water. I believe it is the only way to live. I am very excited about these Tiny Homes.

Many people have decided to scale back, to get by with less stuff, to live in smaller homes. You can buy a ready-made tiny home, build your own, get a kit or pre-fab, or live in other movable shelters such as RV’s. There are numerous blogs and websites with news, photos, and plans for tiny homes. If you are thinking of scaling back here’s a different approach, a 180º turn from increasing consumption. there are builders, designers, architects (no less), dreamers, artists, road gypsies, and water dwellers who’ve achieved a measure of freedom and independence by taking shelter into their own hands.

Barbara Andrews.

The Perfect Toy Hauler Solution

The Idaho Tote Dolly. Is the perfect solution for RV’ers who want to take along their 4-wheelers, motorcycles, golf carts or any other recreational equipment. Also you can turn your Pickup truck into a flatbed.  The Idaho Tote is equipped with a Pressure Sensing Steering Axle (PSSA). When pressure is applied from turning, the wheels will automatically steer! The Idaho Tote has an onboard compressed air system which is used to change the position of the axle when traveling forward and rearward.

Affixed to the axle system are 2 Firestone air bags. One is inflated when traveling down the highway. The other will be inflated when you shift into reverse. In addition to the normal stop, turn and tail lights in the electrical plug (which needs to be installed on the rear of the unit to which the Tote is attached) a 10 GAUGE WIRE WITH AN INLINE 30 AMP FUSE is used for the charge wire system. The other is wired into the backup light system. Your onboard batteries in your camper or motor coach are used for the charge wire system. The axle system is designed with king pin slope; this creates posture which makes the wheels want to steer.

Many RV’ers want more options to accommodate their budget. Bigger is always better and to some less is more. If you already have a fifth wheel and want to take your toys  and are considering a toy hauler you might want to look at the Idaho Tote as an alternative. Most RV’ers that I talk to on a daily basis want as much space as the budget will allow. Toy haulers are more expensive than fifth wheels also you are giving up living space to allow for your garage.

If you are the RV buyer that wants the Big Mack Daddy toy hauler with ALL the living space, garage space and bells and whistles, that unit is available for 89 to 100 thousand dollars. In our economy that buyer very seldom walks through our doors. For the most, people are trying to save money and the Idaho Tote will allow you to do that. As a matter of fact you don’t have to have toys to purchase a toy hauler at all. I sold one to a guy that wanted to put a stripper pole in the garage area for his girlfriends. The funniest part of that story is our service department installed it for him.

I personally love the Big Mack Daddy toy hauler. If you want to browse the toy hauler inventory to see why click on toy haulers on the side bar of my blog. If you want a brochure of the Idaho Tote.    Barbara Andrews. Orange Park, Florida.

Every Dream Has A Theme

What exactly is this elusive thing called theme?

The theme of a fable is its moral. The theme of a parable is its teaching. The theme of a piece of fiction is its view about life and how people behave.  In fiction, the theme is not intended to teach or preach. In fact, it is not presented directly at all. You extract it from the characters, action, and setting that make up the story. In other words, you must figure out the theme yourself.

Most of us dream picturing ourselves in a theme that we long for before it becomes a reality. So what exactly is an RV lifestyle anyway?   All sorts of things: RV camping trips, full-service tailgating, a great way to follow NASCAR races, extended vacations, a seasonal home, fulltime RV living…and the list goes on. In fact, there is no list. Your RV lifestyle is what you want it to be.  Its your dream and your theme.

Ask Yourself What You Want

We’re not talking about any in-depth evaluation of inner motives here. Just a little time thinking about what you want out of your RVing experiences. Try the drill of “Who, What, When, Where, How & Why?”

Who! Who else is in this theme with you?  What’s important to them?  Let’s say you’re thinking about buying a camper for affordable RV vacations. Enjoying the great outdoors. Bringing the family closer together. Fishing in peaceful solitude. Just Good Old-fashioned fun. Before you get too carried away… make sure the rest of the family is on the same wavelength. Continue that mental picture in your mind. The specific questions you ask yourself will depend on your circumstances.

What are you going to use an RV for?  How often?  To go where?  For how long?  Will you stay in one place awhile or move every couple days?  If you’re changing to a new RV, what do you want to be different?  What has to be the same?  Are you looking for a change in rig or RV lifestyle?  Are you considering upgrades or accessories (solar panel, awnings, RV furniture, camping supplies)?  What features are important to you?

When do you want to do this?  What time of year, at what point in the future, does it matter?

Where are you going to keep the RV?  Where do you want to go?

How does this fit with other hobbies and interests you have or want to explore?  Do you need to take golf clubs, bicycles, motorcycles, ATV’s, or fishing gear with you?  How are you going to afford it?

Why are you thinking of RVing?  As your everyday lifestyle, or a family vacation, or a way to winter in warmer climates?  Is this for retirement, for now, or a bit of both?  Is the RV to make your NASCAR passion or tailgating more enjoyable?  Is it to try something new and see if you like it?

This is not a test.  Enjoy all this world has to offer. There are no right and wrong answers. You don’t need answers at this point. But Asking yourself some questions starts momentum. It triggers possibilities. It gets ideas rolling around in your brain. Some conversations held with the people who are in this theme with you.

Learn. You have probably heard the expression “Getting there is Half the Fun”. A perfect theme for the RV lifestyle itself. Well, it’s also appropriate in the context of checking things out. The learning about RVing, the anticipation – is truly half the fun so enjoy every moment and good luck with your dream.  By the way, don’t think you have to figure it all out. You will learn as you go  it’s part of RV living.  And it all starts when you take ACTION. So, go ahead and ACT and enjoy your RV lifestyle.

Barbara Andrews, Orange Park, Florida