There are many people who will rob or harm you in the wild. There are bears, cougars, boars, wolves, snakes, and gators that are hungry.
Get a Concealed Weapons Permit (if required in your state) and carry a small pistol in your pocket at all times. A .22 will make enough noise to make someone run, but you will need a 9mm or .40 with a well-placed shot to kill a criminal or wild animal. Get trained and practice on a regular basis. This can also come in handy if attacked by a bear, wolf, snake, or cougar. A pistol will cost $150-$500.
If you are on a low budget, you can get a scary looking pellet gun at Walmart for $20- $80.
This will not kill anyone but you could blind an attacker if you were good enough to shoot their eye. The hand cockers are fun to shoot, but may not scare a criminal away. I would go for a $50 CO2 model and keep in pocket.
A $1 folding knife from Dollar Store.
A $10 Pepper Spray on your key ring or in your pocket from Walmart.
Several $1- $10 flashlights. I have one shaped like a billy club that is by my driver’s seat at all times ($24 Walmart). Lights in the eyes at night will confuse a criminal or animal. Go for the brightest ones.
A $1 whistle on key chain or in pocket will confuse a criminal or animal.
7 A $15 compressed air horn on key chain or in pocket will confuse a criminal or animal. These can be found in the Walmart Boating department.
Take a self-defense course or Judo. Sometimes it’s free in local communities.
Use an ink pen or screwdriver. If you thrust into the neck or eye can slow down a criminal or animal.
A double sock full of $10 worth of pennies or nickels (or a $10 hammer) can do some damage when swung to hit the head of a criminal or animal and the impact does not hurt you like hitting them with your fist.
A $15 jogger’s alarm allows you to set off a loud noise.
Many electronic remote key fobs have a panic button on them.
A dog can be worth their weight in gold.
A $15 Solar powered motion detection light for your home can sit on you dash or hood and may scare off a criminal or animal if you are in the woods.
Put a Marine or Army sticker on your front and back bumpers. No one wants to pick a fight with a well-trained VET.
A $330 Taser or $40-$120 Electric Shock Flashlight is a non-lethal way to stop an attacker.
Know your environment and neighborhoods. There are parts of some towns I would not drive my vehicle through in broad daylight, let alone overnight. There are some places in the wilderness that are frequented by some people that may not be friendly.
Park in a manner that won’t allow you to be blocked in by another vehicle. Be able to drive fast in forward or reverse to rapidly escape. Know your surroundings and escape routes. If you feel uncomfortable, listen to your gut. Lock up at night and have a designated place for your keys. While stealth is great, don’t park in a hidden place. Put gear away in the vehicle when not in use. Have defensive tools accessible.
Bear Spray can be used on both 4 footed and 2 footed predators.
Remember, the average response time to a 911 call is 30 minutes or more.
The average response time of a pistol is 1400 feet per second. You can stop an attacker in less than 5 seconds.
The bottom line, you have to be able to protect and defend yourself when camping.
(Wasp Spray is only a defense against Wasps not attackers – google it)
Practice using all the above so you are comfortable, prepared, and are safe camping.
I am not paranoid but I also believe in being prepared. Google the following:
– 11 campers have been murdered on the Appellation Trail.
– A man was murdered in his tent with his 2 little girls watching and 10 other campers shot.
Whether you are in the woods or the city, there are still some crazy people in the world that will rob, rape or murder, regardless of the location.
It is better to have something, and not need it than to NEED SOMETHING and not have it.
I carry a can of Fix-a-Flat, spare tire, and fire extinguisher for the same reasons.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
On October 1, 2019, I will be taking off for another horizon and #Adventure. I will be #GoingWest from Orlando to Oakland and will take 90 days to get there.
As I make my way slowly west, I will be seeing some beautiful sites, making great friends along the way and seeing family and old friends.
By the time I make it to California, it should be time for the yearly “Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (RTR),” a large gathering of RVers, Van and Car Dwellers in January 2020. This is a great chance to embrace the #NomadLife. So show up in a car with a tent if you have too.
Texas (Houston) will be my #NewHome state and I will be going back there once or twice a year (more like every 9 months) for doctor’s visits and other personal business. However, as a Veteran, I can go to the doctor’s office in any state.
I lived in Houston, TX over 30 years ago when I was still married as a young mother with two small kids. I did not want to return to Texas – not quite yet — after spending 1 year in Dallas and 3 years in Austin, but I guess we all need to revisit our past and move one.
I love this time of year around my birthday, October 6, (63) and other holidays, especially when all the leaves start changing colors. You got all the holidays back to back – my birthday (Oct. 6), Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. I absolutely love it!!!
I go into some type of #HappyTrance during this time of year. The weather cools off and it’s also time for #BootSeason. I love wearing boots in cool weather. It’s also cool enough where you can wear a wig with comfort.
Despite being born in and living in the state of Georgia for 40 years, Florida will always be my #GoTo state. As most of you know I have been living in the Orlando, Florida area for one year after living in Austin, TX for 3 years and Dallas for 1 year.
This is my 4th time living in the state of Florida. I lived in Tallahassee for 2 months before, Tampa for 6 months and Miami for 5 years and now one year in Orlando and all of it has been a #Beautiful experience for me.
Despite going through 11 years of workplace abuse in Atlanta, GA (TheCathyHarrisStory.com), I was the most happiest in my #WorkLife in Miami for 5 years with Customs more than any other location (Houston, TX, El Paso, TX, Miami, FL, Atlanta, GA) in my 27-year federal career.
Because I love to travel, I always wanted to call at least 3 to 4 states #MyHome. After driving around the country for a year in 2013, I had decided on Florida (Orlando), North Carolina (Charlotte) and Pennsylvania (Philly) – to be my #HomeStates.
I always wanted to see California so I am on my way out there now (#GoingWest) — so I can very well add it to the states I would like to call home. I can’t wait to see the water and scenery (#TeamBeach).
I have only lived in Charlotte for 2 weeks but other relatives and friends live in the North Carolina area so I have been there many times and always wanted to live in the Charlotte area.
North Carolina has the cleanest restrooms and rest areas out of all the states that I have traveled. I just thought I would put that in there.
For some reason, Florida has always been GOOD TO ME. I think the reason Florida is one of those states and areas that can get my #CreativeJuices flowing is because of its beauty.
From the way the breezes rise off the water, to the way the sun comes up through the trees in early morning — what a beautiful, beautiful site.
When I left Florida in 2014 after taking a 6 months break after being on the road for an entire year, I was really productive at that time also.
My goal back then was to travel to a new state every 6 months. I was going to sign a 6-month apartment lease or just move in with a roommate and just travel to a different state every 6 months and meet the locals, however, plans changed and I ended up getting off the road temporarily and moved to Austin and Dallas.
Back then I wasn’t thinking about RVing. I never explored the possibility of moving into a Van or RV until now. Sometimes in life, we have to stop and ‘smell the roses’ or just look at all our options.
I have been retired since 2005. Had I known this #NomadLifestyle existed back then — I know I would have acted sooner and embraced the #Nomad and #GypsyLifestyle.
I have always been a #Nomad and #Wanderer at heart, especially since the military. However, sometimes we are put in positions and sent to places to fully allow ourselves to heal and come up with #ActionPlans for our lives.
Had I never went to Austin, TX and lived with a guy who was a Sergeant Major, E-9 in the military, I don’t know if I could have faced my demons from the military or even have had the courage to finish my military book “Military Dirty Little Secrets: My Tour of Duty.” The book was so painful to write that it took me 40 years to write it and I am hoping it will be my #LastPainful book.
Keeping a Strong Body as You Age
Florida like most states has its issues. Eventually, I would like to move my doctor’s visits and personal business back to Florida. However, Florida has the worst VA.gov medical system that I have seen so far on my travels.
They call me a #TravelingVeteran because I had been seen at other VA.gov systems (Tampa, Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Detroit, New Jersey, etc.). But the Orlando VA.gov level of care is something that needs to be investigated.
Despite having plenty of people around me, I pretty much went into isolation some days in Florida over the last year. This is because I still felt I had one more thing to do with my life (SimpleLifeRVing.com) and sometimes your elevation may require your isolation. Sometimes you need to turn your home into a #LearningCenter to feed your inner soul and spirit.
One thing I learned for sure in Atlanta in 2008, three years after retiring from my job, when I ended up housebound and bedridden at the age of 50 years old, which started my natural #HealthJourney, is that you have to take steps everyday to make sure your body, mind, and soul have what it needs not just to survive, but to function properly. This is a daily task and unless you pay attention — your body, mind, and soul will give out on you.
Getting healthy and staying healthy is a struggle for everyone — including me. Because I was exposed to ‘second-hand’ cigarette smoke in my Senior apartments for one year, I had to struggle to stay healthy.
Benzene — the contaminant that comes from smoking can do a job on the human body especially the kidneys.
I had two injuries while living in Florida during the past year and I am grateful and thankful that I had these injuries at this time in my life.
These injuries were nothing but lessons and a #WakeUp call for me to do what I needed to do, #StayOnTrack and pay even more attention when it came to how I treated my body.
I had a groin injury from lifting too much weight at the gym and when I took off to run one day because I had not stretched probably or enough, I pulled a butt muscle. It took 6 to 8 weeks each to heal both of these injuries.
The good part about it is that despite the fact that the VA.gov in Orlando, Florida had a bad medical system, it did have an adequate physical therapy department — where I was able to learn exercises that would strengthen my body for many years to come.
I was in the right place at the right time to get these lessons. And that is what life is. It is a lesson and unless you pay attention, your life could be over with — in an instance.
Last Ride for Seniors – #FinalDestinations
We all must do our part and force politicians to do the right thing by Seniors. Remember we all will get old one day. We must do our part to make sure that as Seniors age, they can live out their lives with #Dignity.
If we don’t make these changes now or if we are not raising our kids, grandchildren and other relatives to be #Kind and #Compassionate — then who will make the changes?
Many of you might not know it but when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, many found a new home in Florida so the state is extremely FULL OF PEOPLE — especially Seniors. I guess the same will happen with #HurricaneDorian and the people from the Bahamas.
As soon as a new Senior apartment building is constructed in my area and they open their doors for business, they already have a 6-months to 1-year waiting list for Seniors desperate to find a home.
Even my Senior Apartments were once a hotel so they have had to turn buildings and other establishments into homes for Seniors in the state of Florida.
I have a one-bedroom studio/efficiency, however, they originally catered to prisoners and homeless people — 55 and older — then they started allowing other Seniors to move in.
I worked with men for over 30 years in the military and with U.S. Customs (TheCathyHarrisStory.com), but when I moved in these Senior apartments, I wondered why men here looked at me the way they did — like they wanted to jump me.
It was more than the usual looks and stares. Many seemed to have something sinister about them. One guy especially would talk loud outside my door as if he wanted me to hear him and come out outside.
I ended up in an argument with him for disrespecting my privacy and reported him to the office. Later I found out he had spent 17 years in prison.
Then I found out many of the men here had been in prison for up to 15 and even 20 years. When I found this out, I started carrying myself much differently – started being more safer, especially at night.
After my one year lease in Orlando, Florida living in Senior apartments, I realized that I needed more than ever to keep having ‘meaning in my life’ and living in an apartment or another dwelling was hindering me from ‘living my dreams’ of being on the #OpenedRoad.
As soon as I signed the lease, it was like I just gave up my #Freedom — never again. I always wanted to live in Senior apartments to see if I could assist them in any way, but living here did nothing but made me want to go on more #Adventures and see even more beauty in my life while seeking out more fun, happiness and to be totally stimulated fully – mind, body, and soul.
It’s one thing to embrace your age and it’s another to completely give up on life. What I saw over the last year in my Senior apartments are people who had totally given up on life.
Not only where their fond memories of life behind them, they indeed had come to the end of their roads — many at the age of 55. I did not want that to be my story.
I heard them rejoice when the first of the month rolled around because they were paid. But by the 10th of the month, I heard them trying to borrow cigarettes from others because by then — they were #Broke. That’s no kind of life to live.
There was a beautiful park and a trail for walking or running next to our apartments, but many did not even bother to try to get on the elevator and come out and walk around the park to get some exercise.
Many would come out at least twice a day to walk their dogs so sometimes the dogs got more exercise than them.
I watched these Seniors go from walking with a cane to using a walker to having to use a wheelchair. Many arrived in good shape — walking everyday, but once they saw everyone else with canes and walkers, they went and got one. So the type of people you hang out with does make a big, big difference — especially as you age.
Many did not even bother to get dressed everyday. They would just sit outside their doors in their nightclothes or be on breathing machines. So for many Seniors in my apartment complex, it was their #LastRide.
Ambulances were here every week taking many Seniors away to hospitals or to their #FinalDestinations. So again, at 62, all of this urged me to seek out even more adventures in my life and to continue to live my life to the fullest.
It’s time for all of us to come together and come up with a #BrainBank full of options to live our best lives ever. #Joy, #Peace, #Happiness.
I hope you join me on my new journey as I ‘Teach From the Road’ with youtube.com. Make sure you tell your family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues about my NEW JOURNEY. I hope my videos are educational as well as entertaining.
Again, Thanks Florida and I will definitely be back. Follow me as I travel around the country and ‘Live the Good Life’ in a car, van and RV.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
I have always had a ‘wandering spirit’ ever since I was in the military. So for my 63rd birthday on October 6, it was my plan to move into an RV and sign up for an RV class to learn more about RVs. However, since the classes are filled until next year, I won’t be purchasing an RV at this time.
I can write a book in a week, make a man’s tuxedo for a sewing project in a few hours, take great photos and videos, crochet beautiful items, shoot a weapon perfectly, but when it comes to fixing stuff or being mechanically inclined, I barely know the difference between a phillips and flathead screwdriver.
And as a #GirlyGirl, I am not really trying to learn these skills at this point in my life. So at 63, unless I have #TravelBuddy accompany me to take care of RV repairs, I decided to wait on purchasing an RV for now.
Oh there were plenty of offers or volunteers to ride along with me (believe me), but I wanted to get back on the road as a ‘solo female’ to renew my mind, spirit, and soul and connect with other women on the road, since my #TargetAudience for my empowerment and publishing business, AngelsPress.com, is #Women.
Cars vs. RVs
After starting my RV research appropriately 7 months ago, it took me months to figure out that many in the RV industry also call a generator – an “inverter.” They both work hand-in-hand. The main difference between ‘inverter generators’ and a ‘conventional generator’ is the noise levels.
Amps, batteries it’s all confusing to me. I even have a #SisterBook (two parts) on cars “A Woman’s Guide to Buying a New or Used Vehicle: Everyday Secrets You Should Know”(Part I and Part II).
I really wrote these books because of how I personally have been cheated in the past by mechanics so I thought the books would help others — especially women — maneuver in this ‘uncharted territory’.
Part I of this book provides everything you need to know about buying a “new” or “used” vehicle.
Part II of this book deals specifically with maintaining and caring for your vehicle once you buy it — so it will have a ‘good retail value’ when and if you decide to sell it or trade it in.
According to car experts, African American women pay on average at least $6,000 more for a new car than others — African American men pay $4,000 more — White women pay $2,000 more — while White men pay $2,000 LESS. This book will level the #PlayingField for anyone looking to buy a new or used vehicle – especially all women.
So I have dabbled in trying to figure out the car industry, but the RV industry — it’s a totally different ball game. They make these cheap RVs and don’t even check them before they come off the line. They just shipped them to a state and then they go on the lot for sale.
Cars get recalled too, but RVs are not regulated like cars so they can end up being a #MoneyPit. Unlike the car industry where cars are made in Germany and Japan, there is NO COMPETITION in the RV industry so they are free to do what they want. So again, I don’t want to rush into any decision to buy an RV or at least not until I feel comfortable that I can fix certain things.
The good thing about being a ‘Nomadic Gypsy Wanderer’ is being adjustable to make changes. I wanted to go ahead and educate you on another important topic before moving into an RV — living in a car or van. I wanted to make sure you were well-informed on living life as a Normad, Gypsy, and Wanderer in either of these.
As an #InformationJunkie, my mind is always working and coming up with GREAT IDEAS to put out in the universe. So what will I be doing after my one-year lease is up at my Senior apartments in Orlando, FL in October 2019, I will be moving into my car – #CarLiving and/or #CarCamping along with staying with family, friends (couchsurfing.com), and at hotels — as I travel west (#GoingWest) to Bob Well’s or CheapRVLiving.com
I am so looking forward to my #NewAdventures on the road. Living in a Car, Van or RV can be a wonderful life. I want the experience of doing all three – #CarDwelling, #VanDwelling, and #RVing (SimpleLifeRVing.com).
And remember this will be my first time driving to the west coast — so I am so excited. By the time the RTR gets finished in January 2020, I will decide if it will be #TeamVan or #TeamRV.
A lot of you have seen me do some challenging things since being on my mailing list in 1998 and at 63, this might just be one of the most ‘out-of-the-box’ decisions I ever made — to #CarCamp.
But remember #LeadersLead by example. Leaders venture into ‘uncharted’ territories and help others transcend boundaries and create options. And that is what living in a Car, Van or RV is all about – #Options and building a #Kind and #Brave movement.
Just know when I do #CampCamp, I will be doing it with a ‘sound mind and body’. It can be hard on building relationships especially if you live in a Car or Van, but remember these are #YourAdventures, you are not on this earth to please anyone else.
Many individuals are loving this lifestyle, saving money, eating organic foods and seeing some wonderful sites and making great friends along the way. What a life!!!
And I do have two daughters up north in dwellings that I can visit — especially when I feel like I need to relax in a bathtub. However, I will be getting a hotel probably weekly — just to recoup from my travels.
I have an 800 credit score so I can go out tomorrow and move into another apartment complex, condo, duplex, townhouse or even buy a house. But none of those are what my desires are — at least not at this time in my life. So again, understand up-front, I will be #CarCamping of ‘sound mind and body.’
This should be no issue for me because of the following:
I was born in the deep woods of rural Georgia as a #Survivalist. As a ‘black-sheep‘ child with 8 siblings, I grew up as a ‘loner’ for the first 17 years of my life and nature was indeed my friend. We did not have running water in the house until much later on and we never had an indoor bathroom. I had to learn to defend myself early on in life not just from society, but from my own family.
I am ex-military, which means I am used to traveling.
I carried a weapon for over 25 years on my job and was an ‘expert shot’.
I drove a government vehicle for over 20 years on my job so I enjoy driving.
I traveled around the country by car to 15 states for one year in 2013 and stayed at hotels, with family and friends, so I am used to traveling.
I go to the gym 4 or 5 days a week so I can still squat, bend and lift stuff.
I am 5’8′ inches in height and usually sleep balled up on my right side so I can deal with cramped spaces.
I just lived in a Studio/Efficiency apartment for one year so I should be okay living in a small space.
As a Holistic and Natural Healer, and Non-GMO Health Expert, I haven’t turned a stove on in 12 years so preparing meals in a small space should be easy for me.
What I want to do before I buy my first RV is to show my audience — YOU GUYS — how you can successfully live in a car or van and be TOTALLY HAPPY with your life’ choices.
My Nomadic Lifestyle – #BeFree
Camp camping for me could be a way for me to conduct research for a new book on #CarDwelling or it just could be a way to show others how to survive.
I always wanted to be one of those persons that were a ‘ray of sunlight’ or a ‘beacon of hope’ for the downtrodden – #Humanitarian. After all — without hope, what do people really have?
For those who can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, I want you to know that your life will indeed turn around for you again. You just have to get out of bed everyday and put one foot in front of the other and first and foremost – #EmbraceChange and #ChaseHappiness. Just remember, however, that change starts with you.
Remember, even though I will be #CarLiving and/or #CarCamping as I #GoWest, I will be spending a majority of my days OUT OF THE CAR. My goal is simply to connect to #GoodPeople and nature again. My mind, body, and soul have been missing both for far too long.
What I really would like to do is help Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com – who is around my age, create a #KindMovement. Not just a #KindMovement, but also a #BraveMovement.
Like Bob what I believe is — if we don’t get back to a more ‘primitive style of living’ or living a natural or #HolisticLifestyle, we all are going to perish off this planet. And that has been my message from day one — throughout all my platforms – AngelsPress.com, CathyHarrisInternational.com, SimpleLifeRVing.com.
I will be holding Strategy Meetings, Think Tanks and Masterminds for women as I travel from Orlando to California for the next 90 days. Reach out if you want me to stop in your city and work with your group.
I will also be seeing some beautiful sites while meeting some great new people and seeing my family and old friends along the way.
Join me as I #HeadWest and start ‘Teaching From the Road’ in my NEW PLATFORM at SimpleLifeRVing.com.
I am what they call a true #Nomad, #Gypsy, #Wanderer, with a ‘freeing’ and ‘caring’ spirit. It’s actually in my blood. I will be showing you ‘first-hand’ how to live ‘The Good Life.’
You can follow me at the below links and make sure you share these with all your family members, friends and others that you truly care about. I appreciate all your support. Love you, love you, love you.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
Road Trip anyone??? We all have dreams of places we want to see or go one day. At 62 I really don’t have a #BucketList. However, as an avid traveler, it’s been my dream though for a long time to drive out west to California to my #DreamState to see the scenery and water — not just Cali, but the entire west coast.
Wouldn’t you know it — just when I prepare to #GoWest, they start having earthquakes again. When I went on the road for an entire year in 2013 to 15 states, after about 8 months, I realized I would not make it to California so I took it off my states to visit.
Back then I had given myself one year to be on the road, but now I realize it’s my dream to live ‘Full-Time’ on the road. It’s funny how your dreams change and how you need to keep adjusting your expectations and #ActionSteps so you can continue on a path to bring total happiness into your life.
I have flown into California on at least 7 occasions before, however, at those times I held speaking events so I went straight to hotels or to the events without having time to explore the area.
I wanted to start this journey as a continuation of my last “One Year Journey” and since I wasn’t able to go to the west coast at that time – #GoingWest will be my motivation and inspiration to start this new journey on Oct. 1, 2019 — #SimpleLifeRVing.
I have fallen in love with the #VanDwellers and their experiences online so by the time I make it to California or to the Rubber Tramp Rendevous (RTR) in January 2020 in Quartzsite, AZ or California, I will probably decide if it will be #TeamVan or #TeamRV — #MoreAdventures.
Most of you really don’t know why it’s important for me to #GoWest to California. Some people on facebook even accused me of wanting to see #MovieStars. I saw plenty of movie stars while working with Customs for over 25 years and I also saw plenty of them during my 20-year stay in Atlanta.
I could care less about movie stars especially today after most people have turned #RealityShow stars into movie stars. Plus I haven’t watched TV in over 3 years so I don’t know who people are anyway. Others are asking me why go there because people are leaving there in droves.
Besides wanting to see the beauty in this country, the “One Year Journey” in 2013 wasn’t just a ‘One Year Pilgrimage’ for me or a chance to see beautiful sites, see old friends and family members, and/or to build my network by holding seminars and workshops, it was to look up certain individuals in the media, who assisted me in my fight against my job – TheCathyHarrisStory.com.
I wanted to be able to look these individuals in the eyes before I left this earth to tell them “Thanks”. Several of these individuals are out west and I still need to tell them “Thanks for having my back.”
These are just some of my #Heroes and #Sheroes — strong black men and women that had my back when I went up against a giant (aka “The Federal Government”). Because of them — I am #StillStanding.
I am finally on my way west to see my #DreamState
– #California and to #PayHomage to those who have paid homage to me — #BraveMen, #BraveWomen, #WarriorSpirit, #FreedomFighters.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
When you get sick on the road try to go to family member’s or friend’s homes or check into a hotel and rest — if you can. Sickness is a sign that you are doing too much and not taking care of yourself.
Not eating the proper food is the #BiggestCulprit for sickness. I know this first-hand when I became housebound and bed-ridden 12 years ago at 50 years of age. Read my blog post “The Awakening.”
You have to find the balance. I don’t believe in doctors. They are quick to name something a disease so they can start treating you for something — where you will probably have some type of #SideEffect and end up on even more medications.
Doctors also know very little about #Nutrition. At 62 I go in for my regular checkups and make sure my ‘numbers are in range’, but after that, I engage in HOLISTIC and NATURAL practices to stay healthy.
Personally, while being out here on the road, I will still be eating the same foods I ate in my ‘Sticks and Bricks’ dwelling and will only mostly be STEAMING and JUICING foods to eat so I can get their total nutritional value.
There is a reason cancer is the 2nd largest killer across every community. It’s mostly because we are sitting down at the table three times a day and eating foods that have NO NUTRITIONAL VALUE.
I rarely eat out and haven’t turned a stove on in 12 years. You have to continue to eat, good, clean organic foods, drink good water, take daily supplements, get regular exercise, get plenty of sleep and do regular detoxifications – even when you go on the road.
Being on the road you are exposed to HEAVY METALS from pumping gas, exhaust fumes from your car and other cars when you are driving or parked, and especially from Chemtrails in the sky from the Air Force.
It’s important to engage in a regular detoxification (‘detox’ for short) programs or “Body Cleanses” to keep these toxins especially HEAVY METALS — exiting your body.
You are constantly getting these ‘heavy metals’ from the food you eat, air you breathe and water you drink. Your motto should be “Bad Stuff Out, and Good Stuff In.”
Stop listening to doctors and get entrenched in #HolisticandNatural communities. They are in every city so look for these as you travel around the country and enjoy yourself.
Many RVers that are stationary or even those traveling, grow herbs and other veggies in their vehicles. Learn more about how to stay healthy on the road by checking out my line of health books at my Empowerment and Publishing Company, AngelsPress.com.
Here are my 6 health books and I am working on two others:
Follow us on our journey at SimpleLifeRVing.com and join the groups below to keep Car and Van Dwellers, RVers and other minimalists healthy on the road.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
I also have my own dating website at BlackMatchmakerClub.com. With so many people being online today because of social media, the internet is the best place to meet someone. Several people – including me — have found love on our online website so check it out.
I know most of you have seen online where I have been posting articles on my NEW BLOG at www.SimpleLifeRVing.com.
I am preparing to go Full-Time RVing in a couple of months. However, after extensive research on RVing, I am also thinking about #VanLife (#TeamVan vs. #TeamRV).
My new blog will show you how to do all of it – live in your car, van or RV and successfully travel the country, while you meet others, see some beautiful sites and make some wonderful memories along the way.
Meet Singles on The Road
As a single person just remember a lot of these Car and Van Dwellers and RVers will be in your area at one time or another so these are great opportunities to get in these communities — especially if you enjoy traveling and meeting others.
If you have yet to join the traveling community as a Car or Van Dweller or RVer, you can always attend events in neighboring states — if just on holidays or on weekends.
The goal is to get out of your ‘comfort zone.’ If nothing exciting is happening in your area then go to the next state over. You can travel either solo or with a group of friends with very little money by riding on www.Megabus.com.
You can attend single events, wine tastings, festivals, educational conferences, symposiums, town hall meetings, etc. Many of these events will be posted at www.Meetup.com so join this social media group today — especially in your city.
RV Clubs for Solo RVers
There are many Single’s Clubs out there in the RV community such as:
-National African American RVer’s Association – This group was founded to promote camping in recreational vehicles as a way of life and as another means for families to have fun and explore the outdoors.
-RVingWomen – This is a community of women, 18 and older, who travel independently. Some are retired and travel full-time while others are still working and join up on weekend rallies.
If you are new to RV travel you are invited to come to one of their rallies where you can meet other women, see their rigs, and hear how they travel. There is everything from tents to big motorhomes. There is a member directory for support.
Many travelers especially women, probably want to be a solo traveler – at least for a little while. You can become a part of their tribe and when you want to be alone, you can go your own way.
-Loners on Wheels– Loners on Wheels is an RV Club of legally single men and women who enjoy traveling, camping, RV caravanning and the lifestyle of singles. This is not a matchmaking or dating service. Companionship and support are what they’re all about. Although love does bloom at times!
-Wandering Individuals Network – This group is an RV Singles Travel Club. WIN RV Singles is the premiere RV club for singles. They are an active, adventurous club for single campers and travelers. WIN RV Singles has circuits across the US, Canada, and Mexico and are open to all legally single adult travelers.
WIN is an active club. With an average of 80 caravans, circuits, and gatherings each year, they provide activities for all single travelers — such as hiking, biking, sightseeing, kayaking, zip-lining, boat tours, museums, plays, factory tours, etc.
Everything is planned by the members. WIN provides free or inexpensive camping spots, detailed destination information with GPS coordinates, and experienced hosts who know their way around the RV world. If you’re looking for an adventurous singles RV traveling club, then WIN is for you!
-Escapees Solos – This group has amail forwarding service for RVers out of Livington, TX. They usually hold a big New Year’s celebration in Quartzsite, AZ and other events so join them today. Community is at the heart of their Club. Escapees form enduring connections with other RVers — who share their passion for travel, exploration, and independence.
-RVillage – This is a very active online group with subgroups of every category. I am a member and highly recommend it. You don’t have to have an RV yet — to meet travelers on this site so it’s a great way to meet others traveling in and out of your area.
There are RV Clubs that are not just for singles — but more based on the vehicle you are RVing in. This is a really good list of RV Clubs, but most of them are vehicle specific. If this is something important to you, by all means, check it out.
If you are traveling alone and would like a safe place to park overnight then BoondockersWelcome.com is for you. Not only will you make new friends, but you will sleep soundly knowing you are in a safe place.
Facebook Singles Groups
50+ Single RVers Connection – This is a closed group for SINGLE RVers over 50 in NORTH AMERICA to connect with other RVers. If you would like to join this group, please be in NORTH AMERICA, have a current photo of yourself, an indication that you are SINGLE, and photos of your RV so that they can tell you are a SINGLE RVer! It is a DATING site….so no one should be in a relationship or married, and don’t post any sexually explicit posts. If you’re interested in a profile you see, please connect with a private message. Have fun!
RV Singles – RV Singles is for people who enjoy RVing and happen to be single or flying solo, are widowed and looking to meet other RV singles on the road either just for friends or possibly a little romance. All members are welcome. We do not discriminate in this group!
Van Dwellers have van builds all over for Car and Van Dwellers to gain ideas on how to build out vans. This is a great opportunity to network and meet others to travel with.
These caravans are for Car and Van Dwellers and RVers — anyone traveling on the road with any type of vehicle. Meet others and travel with them and build lifetime relationships.
Attend the Yearly Rubber Tramp Rendevous (RTR)
Most RVers hang out in Quartzsite, AZ from October to April so it’s known as the ‘Snowbird’ capital of the world.
Every year they have their famous gathering of RVers, and Car and Van Dwellers. The event founded by Bob Wells is called the – Rubber Tramp Rendevous (RTR). The event is usually held in Quartzsite, AZ, but in 2020, they are looking at California.
There is usually anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 in attendance. Next year in 2020, the location might be 50 miles from Slab City, CA instead of Quartzsite, AZ. The location will be announced soon.
The event starts off with women Car and Van Dwellers and RVers coming together in workshops for 4 days starting on Jan. 4 – Jan. 8, 2020, then everyone will get together for around 2 weeks.
If you only have a car then come to the event with your tent if you don’t wish to sleep in your car. There will be plenty of portable restrooms everywhere so all you need to bring is food and a tent or turn your car or a larger vehicle into a camper or come in your van or rent a van for the event.
After the RTR everyone usually head into Quartzsite, AZ for the “Big Tent RV Show,” Jan. 18 – 26, 2020 — one of — if not the largest RV show in the U.S.
After these events, many Car Dwellers, Van Dwellers, and RVers that met during these events — usually head off to explore and camp with each other.
Love is in the air. Traveling and meeting your potential mates can be a great idea. Remember that he or she is not going to just ‘knock on your door’ so put yourself in a setting where you can meet other singles — and get out of your ‘comfort zone.’
Remember, there is more than one way to travel across the U.S. and set yourself up to make moneyon the road and meet potential mates so read my articles entitled:
Join me at the following groups below and tell others about my NEW PLATFORM at SimpleLifeRVing.comand don’t forget to “Live, Love and Enjoy the Journey.”
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
Do You Already Have A Paycheck or Paychecks Coming In?
What would it take for a person today to head out on the road and never work again? Well if you have some type of paycheck coming in such as a Retirement, Social Security, Disability check, etc. or some type of savings or other funds, then you can do this very easily.
For others, it is possible to get on the road and make a living. You can live cheap and invent ways to make money on the road.
Have You Ever Inquired About Working Remotely?
Are you working in a cubicle on your job? Are you driving a 1 to 2-hour commute to work everyday? Have you ever asked your boss if you could ‘work remotely’ from home?
There are a lot of benefits to being an employee. Things like healthcare, paid vacation, and of course, having a steady paycheck.
But if you’re sick of being stuck in an office, how can you convince your boss to let you work remotely. Whether you’re ready to take off and see the world, looking to cut down on your commute, or if you’d just like to have extra time with your loved ones, ‘telecommuting’ is the solution.
And while the business world seems to be coming around to telecommuting, you may still be facing an uphill battle to convince your boss to let you cut the cord.
So how can you convince your boss to let you work from home?
Work Out the Logistics Ahead of Time: If you want your boss to take your proposal seriously, make sure you’ve got all the details worked out before you bring it up.
Arm Yourself With Research: Make sure you’re ready to back up your claims with actual data. Fortunately, you’re not going to have any trouble finding research to support your claims. There’s a growing mountain of research papers proving that employees and employers benefit from remote working.
Focus on the Benefits for Your Company:
If you work from home, you’ll be saving the company over $10,000 each year. Studies have shown a 13.5% boost in remote productivity over office-based productivity, and remote workers are also more likely to take ownership of their tasks.
If you work from home, you will be able to spend more time with your family and friends, avoid the commute, and have fewer distractions when you are trying to get stuff done. It’s a win-win for you and your boss.
Many people who work remotely are still trapped in a type of 9 to 5 workplace mentally, where they need to be available during these hours, however, many employees can get their jobs done at other times — and this is actually the best way to go.
Where Do You Start?
If you are not currently working for a company that you can inquire about remote work –then start looking for one that offers it.
Remember you might have to give up certain benefits such as a ‘full-time’ paycheck. Many will elect to downsize their paycheck or work part-time in order to work in remote jobs. But in return, they will have time to:
Create a business of their own.
Save money on clothing since they are not going into the workplace everyday.
Save money on gas since they are not commuting.
They are able to travel and see some beautiful sites.
They can meet great friends along the way and spend time with family and other friends.
To find these opportunities start with where you are. Use ‘old-fashion’ networking. Start talking to family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Ask them if they know of any ‘remote job’ opportunities and provide your resume to them.
Don’t forget churches and other places where you frequently go. Remember you are not going in there and asking for a job, but you are establishing yourself as someone who has value.
Then check online in groups like LinkedIn.com, which caters to entrepreneurs.
7 places to find remote jobs include:
LinkedIn.com
Flexjobs.com
Upwork.com
Fiveer.com
We Word Remotely
Remote.co
Angel.co
Don’t Ignore Your Own Skills, Talents, and Passions
There is a BIG CHANCE that you can use your own skills, talents, and passions and get paid for it. Remember, everyone has some type of skill or talent, which is of value to others, so prepare to use your skills, talents, and passions on the road.
There are all types of jobs on the road and as a business owner, you can create services and products on the road. Don’t wait until your current situation gets so serious that you won’t be in a position to set yourself up on the road in a car, van or RV.
Make your vehicle work for you on the road or think about trading it in for an SUV, mini-van, cargo van, camper van, bus, boat, RV, or another larger vehicle.
You can work on the road on a phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop in a car, van, RV, bus, boat, and do the same type of job or the same type of work you do now. Or you can finally use the other skills that you have been dying to use in this lifetime.
Just some of the jobs or businesses you can set up on the road include:
Join Escapees.com: The popular mail forwarding services for RVers out of Livington, TX, Escapees.com, has a list of jobs at www.RVerJobExchange.com.
Sell on Amazon: You can sell products on Amazon.com. Many Amazon employees work for 3 months around the holidays and make enough money to live off of and travel the rest of the year. Some of these Amazon jobs are called ‘Camperforce’ jobs and like many of the camp host jobs, will also help pay your fees at RV parks. More on Camperforce Jobs.
Sell Products on eBay: Ever since eBay.com appeared on the scene, people have been purchasing items and reselling them online for a profit. Some people shop at thrift stores to find rare or collectible items, while others shop box stores for steep discounts on brand new products. Doing this doesn’t require any special skills, just patience and a bit of luck.
Counseling/Consulting: Many just use the internet and do jobs like counseling or consulting on skype. They do bookkeeping on skype and train others in webinars at GoToWebinar.com, Zoom.US, etc.
Business Consultant: You spent your life gaining experience in a particular industry — now it’s time to share that knowledge. Consultants and coaches are paid to impart wisdom and provide outside perspective to companies, and your golden years is the ideal time to do that. Use the connections you’ve built over the decades and find a company that could benefit from your expertise. The earning potential for consultants is limitless.
Firearms Shooting Coach: If you are safety-conscious, a good shot and good at giving instructions, then a firearms/shooting coach could be a great business for you.
Because of the economy — people are looking for ways to stay safe, especially women. You can provide your clients with professional and highly personalized guidance. You can offer workshops to learn how to shoot and take care of weapons — in small groups, individual instructions, group outings and in informational seminars.
Basic Mechanic Classes For Women:Did you know most women never open up the owner’s manuals that come with their cars? It used to be a rite of passage for men to teach their sons all about vehicles.
Now especially in this fallen economy, these sons need to put their skills to work. Even though cars have changed with all the new technology, there are plenty of opportunities out there for men and young males who are knowledgeable about cars.
Men and young males who are good with vehicles can set up several potential businesses and workshops to assist women. Women will pay you at least $30 to $50 for workshops on the weekend to show their daughters what’s under the hood and how to change tires.
According to car experts, African American women pay on average at least $6,000 more for a new car than others; African American men pay $4,000 more; White women pay $2,000 more; but White men pay $2,000 LESS.
Become a Gardening Coach or Consultant: You can become a Gardening Coach or Consultant and teach your clients and customers how to grow foods. You can hold community classes or classes at their homes and check on what they are growing once a week.
Make Money Writing:There are several ways to make money writing. Some people choose to write and sell ebooks, paperback, and audiobooks. You can become a Speaker and get out on the road and teach in seminars, workshops, and webinars.
You can help people put together resumes and cover letters, or even keep it super simple by doing transcription work. The sky is the limit for anyone with great writing skills.
Writing/Editing: Many people are trying to start businesses but have trouble writing or putting words together. You can create a writing and editing business to help edit material. You can do this for websites, e-newsletters, etc.
Make Money as A Blogger: You can write blog posts for others or monetize your own blogs using advertisements, sponsors, and affiliate links.
Market Yourself on YouTube.com: Many Car and Van Dwellers and especially RVers, even the ones living off the grid, have their own YouTube.com channels. Once you get over 1,000 subscribers on youtube.com, you can start getting paid for your videos on YouTube.com.
Start A Patreon.com Page: Join my Patreon page today. Patreon is a crowdfunding site, which is similar to a subscription service. You can provide ‘great content’ and get a group of supporters and have them support your content.
Become a Traveling Nurse or Contractor: Many traveling nurses and contractors live in Vans or RVs on the road. Others that are Doctors, Speakers, etc. travel around the country all the time in cars, vans or RVs.
Caregiver Jobs: With a large Senior population today, there are plenty of caregiver jobs out there where you can also use their driveway to stealth camp in a car or van. Check out care.com, eldercare.com, and caregiver.org.
RV Transporting: There is a big need for RV transporters to deliver RVs to dealerships and back to buyers after being sent back to factories and repaired. To drive the bigger RVs, you will probably be required to get a CDL license, but not for the smaller RVs.
Cell Phone and Internet Installers for Vans and RVers:Many travelers are going full-time and looking to stay hooked up so they can run their businesses. If you have the knowledge of phones and the internet, then you should have a thriving business. Join traveler’s websites or social media forums to find customers and clients.
RV Inspectors/Repairmen: There are many skills needed to assist these Car, Van or Bus Dwellers, RVers and the Tiny House Movement such as carpenters, electricians, RV repairmen, RV inspectors, etc.
In the summertime because of the SHORTAGE of RV mechanics, many RVers have to wait days, weeks, and months for repair. And many Car and Van Dwellers are looking for companies to help build out their cars and vans for traveling and camping.
RV Solar Installers:Many travelers are looking to buy solar for their cars, vans and RVs. If you have this knowledge, you will do great as a Solar Installer or consultant. You can start your own school for this also.
Jobs with RV Parks: People at campgrounds are always looking for a fun activity, and if you can capitalize on their boredom, you can make a few extra bucks even after you’ve retired in your RV.
If you have great skills, many of the RV parks will hire you and give you FREE RV parking for days, weeks and/or months as long as you work with them. These include skills such as using drones, building websites, and marketing their RV parks. So offer up your services and products at these RV parks. Many are building new RV parks today because of the demand to go Full-Time RVing so there will be even more opportunities for you.
Course Instructor: Become a course instructor. A retiree who was a college instructor in a previous life, but after retiring, he created a five-day course to show people how to maintain and repair their RVs. He charges $1,644 for tuition and has people signed up for courses in 10 different locations.
Seasonal Retail Employee: The best thing about working at your favorite store during the holiday season is that you don’t have to make a lengthy commitment. The second best thing is the store discount comes in handy when you do your holiday shopping.
Most retailers take on seasonal employees during November and December. It’s easier to get a job during this time frame, and you can reap all the benefits of working at your favorite store without signing on for the long haul.
Traveling Salesperson: When you’re living in an RV, car or van, it’s possible to earn thousands without getting stuck in an office. One RVer started selling water filters for recreational vehicle plumbing systems. He sold 1,300 filters for $30 each, creating a tidy profit to live off.
Become a Work Camp Host:Just remember that some of these RV parks are desperate for work camp hosts to help them monitor gates, sign in guests visiting in cars, vans, and RVs.
Some of the jobs are remote for those who enjoy getting off the grid. Many work camp hosts can park their RVs for FREE and work for 2, 3 or up to 6 months at an RV park.
At many of these jobs, you only work for 3 days a week and for only 5 hours a day. Check out the below ‘work camping jobs’ if you plan on coming out here on the road:
California Land Management (CLM) Services: There are jobs available every year around May at CLM Services in the California, Washington, Oregon, and Colorado area. Places like Yellow Stone Park even have housing for their employees.
Gate Jobs in Texas: Singles and couples can get a job as a Gate Guard at Timekeepers Inc. and find a gig and earn $100–$175 a day in the state of Texas.
There is a $250 sign-on bonus. They will give you a generator, water, and pump out your sewer in the desert. Usually, a 30-90 day commitment is required and these gigs don’t want kids or pets around and prefer couples instead of singles.
On some of the jobs, you only work for 2 hours a day. If interested please call 830-431-1627. You can also call Val @ 830-428-4154.
Read the below articles and figure out how to ‘work remotely’ while driving around the country — seeing family and friends, making new friends, seeing some beautiful sites, and creating memories while driving in a car, van or RV.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
Bob Wells, from CheapRVLiving.com, has been educating travelers for years on his website and onyoutube.com on how you can successfully live in a car, van or RV and be totally content.
I love what he is doing and it did inspire me to continue some of his work also with my NEW PLATFORM at SimpleLifeRVing.com.
He has stayed in a van for over 15 years after initially going through a divorce and trying to pay for two households.
Why You Should Choose #VanLife
Everyone needs to introduce
#VanLife in their social networks and motivate everyone to get out on the road and live their lives to the fullest.
Caravan Carolyn has 10 reasons to live in your van. Other advantages of living in a van include:
You get better gas mileage with a van.
It’s quick and you get great mobility so you can get up and go.
it’s great for stealth camping. You can park vans anywhere you park cars. You can do this without anyone knowing you are inside.
Unlike bigger RVs, you can engage in “Driveway or Mooch Surfing/Parking, where you stay at family members and/or friends’ homes — sometimes called “CouchSurfing.com.” Many youtube.com supporters will also offer up their places for you to stay also.
Vans can go into the back country and woods and stay there for weeks.
You can strip out a van yourself or have a professional do a #ProfessionalVanBuild for you for around $5000 to $10,000. The biggest fees will probably be the solar, batteries, inverters, and refrigerators. Many use the smaller Dometic or Whynter refrigerators from Amazon.com or they just buy a small refrigerator at Walmart, Lowe’s or Home Depot.
There is a demand for a smaller type of RV that can go to more places. The Class B Van and/or RV is one of the most expensive RVs starting at prices of $70,000 for used to $150,000 for new. So in many cases, it will be better to buy a good used van and have someone build it out with a #VanBuild or you can build it out yourself.
Regular vans are more affordable than a Class B Van, Class B plus (also called ‘Class C’), Class A’s, Travel Trailers or Fifth Wheels.
You can get a used van for $3000 to $5000 on facebook marketplace, eBay, or craigslist or even cheaper from a personal seller.
Top Mistakes of #VanDwellers
#VanLife is trending all over social media. You’ve seen the Instagram photos and features in Outside magazine. But life on the road isn’t all epic adventures and Pinterest-worthy decor.
And while most of the stories in the New York Times or ESPN focus on the freedom and glamour of living on the road, it’s time to get real.
There are things to know to make van life ‘sustainable’.
Anyone can live on camp food for a week or go a few days without showering, but if you’re really considering making a two-ton rolling heap of metal your house, here’s what you should consider before it becomes your permanent hiking base camp.
Just some of the mistakes that #VanLifers are regretting include:
Invest in a Good Van: Invest in a good van from the very beginning. Have someone or a good mechanic look over the van. It doesn’t make sense to invest in a van that is going to break down, especially after you pay for a #ProfessionalVanBuild.
Roof Height: The roof height does matter so go with a van with a higher roof height. No one wants to continuously have to bend down all the time. After a while, it can get pretty uncomfortable.
Weight: Make sure you balance the weight on both sides or it can cause your van to lean to one side.
Insulation: Don’t skip putting in insulation even if you don’t plan on being in cold weather. Without good insulation, your van will get ‘too hot’ or ‘too cold.’
Wood/Gas Mileage: If you plan on putting wood in the ceilings, walls or any part of your van, make sure the wood is not too heavy, which can cut down on gas mileage. Also, use the correct wood for your flooring.
Solar Panels: Don’t skip solar panels. Get at least 400 watts to charge your ‘battery bank’ and run everything.
Mobile Grid: Try to invest in a ‘mobile grid’ (solar, batteries, inverters, etc.) big enough to handle your van and lifestyle. Many never think about how many amps or watts an electronic device used. To put it simply — you’ll want as much power as possible to try and maintain the lifestyle you had before.
Controls: It’s easier to put all the controls in one place.
Light Switches: Make sure light switches don’t automatically come on when the door is opened. Put LED lights in your van especially over the stove for cooking.
Storage: Put drawers in instead of having to throw pillows off to reach storage. The more drawers or storage space sometimes the better. Leave room for sporting gear – kayak, bike, etc.
Sinks: Get a bigger sink and countertop if you like to cook. For others don’t make your sink too big. You can use a water jug instead of a faucet so you don’t really need a faucet in your van. Get a system where it’s easy to fill the fresh water tank and you can automatically drain the gray tank when sitting in a good spot.
Oven/Microwave: Put in an oven or microwave if you want these items. However, many will choose more foods that don’t need to be prepared with heat. Having juicers and steamers work even better.
Propane: Many #VanLifers take this advantage not to use propane at all in their new home. You can use the Mr. Buddy heater in the winter months or the Olympian Wave 3 heater instead or just become a Snowbird and follow 70-degree weather around the country.
Shower/Bathroom: Put a shower in if you want this item. Whether a bucket, bag, or bottle, you need somewhere to take care of business when nature calls at 3 a.m. Figure out which option is most comfortable for you, but make sure you have at least one ‘go-to’ for any emergency.
Fan: Your van is going to get hot so invest in a good Fantastic Fan or Maxxair Fan. Also, get a topper for the fan so that it doesn’t blow off when you drive. Many Van Dwellers choose to put in two fans to get a cross-breeze, especially if they don’t have windows to open.
Windows: Make sure you have windows or being in the van all the time and not being able to see out –can be depressing. There are different types of van windows. Some go out and some slide open. Get the ones that slide open so they won’t blow out, especially when you drive. And this way you will have more ventilation with your fan.
Table: Invest in more expensive table mounts. Make your mounts big enough to hold tables and other items and don’t make these items too big.
Drawers/Cabinets: Try not to put sharp edge handles that stick out that will injure you, especially at your head or knee level. Make cabinets easy to open with hinges and easy to close with magnets during travel.
Hooks: Get plenty of hooks. You will use them. Put them especially closer to the door to air and dry out big coats.
Walkways: Try not to have narrow walkways. It’s best to put the refrigerator toward the front of the van or closer to the kitchen cabinets.
Off-Road: If you plan on taking your van off-road invest in a good winch to carry along with you in case you get stuck.
Be Stealthy: Many get into this life just so they can stealth camp and park anywhere where cars can park. Put a partition wall instead of curtains for stealth camping when separating the front part of the van from the back part. Or cover the windshield and front windows with blackout curtains or some other material. There are several companies that make blackout curtains — just for van windows.
Bed: Try to replicate your home when making your bed or you might end up uncomfortable so invest in a good bed.
Estimated Cost of a Van Build
Most #ProfessionalVanBuilds can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. However, you or a family can do this yourself at a much cheaper price. Watch the van build shows on youtube.com or go to a van build in person.
Here is just one estimate of a #VanBuild:
Window – $290
Fantastic Fan – $150
Insulation – spray foam – reflectix – $575
LED ceiling lights – $45
Color changing led light strips – $35
Pine for ceiling – $56
Shellac on walls – $122
Laminated wood flooring at Costco – $104
Subboard – $69
Roof rack $500 (Some cost $3,000)
Solar panels – Two 100 watt Solar Panels with wiring and controller – $494
Two 100 AGM batteries – $200 each
Renogy 200 watts Inverter – $678
Control panel – $112
Cabinet plywood – $132
Steel studs to frame out benches – $76
Swivel for table – $189
Ikea walnut countertop – $209
Sink – $227
Faucet – $224
Water pump – $60
2 burner stove top – $256
Propane tank – 5 lbs – $50
Two 60 gallon fresh water tank – $45
5 gallon grey water tank – $25
Grey water value – $35
Dometic refrigerator – $619
Natures head composting toilet – $950
Nuts, bolts, drawer slides, adhesive – $304
= Estimated Cost Around – $5,000 to $10,000
Odds are this won’t be your life for the rest of your life. At some point, you’ll probably tire of the life and decide to inhabit a more immobile dwelling — maybe.
So enjoy your time as a nomad—even when you wake up in a pool of your own sweat. Or hear people fighting close to your walls or when you bump your knee on some protruding feature in your small living space.
Because ultimately, the things you’ll experience as a result of making this jump are the type most people work a lifetime to do in two weeks of an annual vacation.
Join van groups online to learn more about #VanLife:
Hopefully, you found this blog to be educational. I do love sharing info as an #InformationJunkie so don’t forget to share my info and links below and be an active part of my NEW JOURNEY and blog at www.SimpleLifeRVing.com.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
People are struggling to be comfortable in their cars today as they go back and forth and live their lives. But what if they had to literally live in their cars?
Bob Wells from Cheap RV Living on youtube thinks that once the government sees how many people are living in cars, vans, RVs, etc., due to the homeless situation, it will propel the government to take action to take care of them.
However, I believe the government (along with the medical and pharmaceutical industry) only cares about ‘population control’ and ‘killing folks off’ because there are too many people in the world. So it’s up to all of us to take care of each other.
Why Many Travelers Are Living in Cars and Vans vs. RVs
I know most of you read the article I wrote entitled “The Truth About The RV Industry – What You Need To Know About Camping World” and why as soon as you buy an RV, you need to be ready also to do your own repairs even if you have an ‘extended warranty’ or be ready to pay top dollars to get others to do these repairs for you.
This is so true. I am sure many of you found the article to be ‘very problematic’ – like me – especially with what has happened at Camping World — being on the verge of bankruptcy because of their ‘unethical’ practices.
Even Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com has said on many occasions in his videos that living in an RV can be a #MoneyPit. After conducting months of extensive research — I agree totally.
All of my research in the RV industry opened the doorway for me to also educate everyone on why living in a car and/or van or a similar vehicle might be a better way to reinvent or change your life than buying an RV.
Many won’t be in a position to live in an RV or Motorhome or do these expensive and extensive repairs, especially many women, so they should think about living in a car, van or similar vehicle instead.
Many travelers, especially women, with Travel Trailers or Fifth Wheels, which can be dangerous to get out of and hook up at times (from ‘man’ and/or ‘beast’), have decided to downsize to #VanLife instead. So again, living in an RV might not be right for everyone.
Remember, you can save a ton of money while Car or Van Dwelling also, so look at these options, if you need to pay off bills and save for the future.
Who Should Think About Car or Van Life?
Who seriously should think about Car or #VanLife?
Save Money Quickly: Those individuals who need to save money quickly should consider moving into a car or van. If you are attempting to do #VanLife then move into your car until you have enough money saved. If you need to find an apartment then move into your car, van or a similar vehicle until you have enough money saved. If you need to buy a house, then move into your car, van or similar vehicle until you have enough saved.
Students Going Off to College: Not all students that go off or try to go off to college have supportive parents. Many college students today are trying to find ways to cut down on tuition. They can live in a car, van or a similar vehicle and cut down on dorm fees.
Abused Employees: Over the years as a ‘Discrimination and Workplace Consultant’, I have watched tons of women and men lose their homes due to wrongful terminations and discrimination on their jobs. Many walked straight from their homes to the streets. They had no other choice but to get involved in prostitution or selling drugs and/or ended up homeless or in jail.
Abusive Spouses: Others, especially women, out here in the Car and Van Dwelling community have had to run away from ‘abusive spouses’. No one should be forced to live in a relationship with anyone where they are not happy. Did you know most Domestic Violence hotlines are flooded with calls for help from women after the holidays (especially in January) once the bills come in?
Sickness: Just remember the NUMBER ONE REASON that most people lose their apartments or homes is SICKNESS, so it’s important to take care of your health. I don’t know if I would choose to get out here on the road if I was sick (probably not), but getting out here on the road can help you in the long run from getting sick. You can take care of yourself better by being out there on the road because you can afford #BetterFoods (#OrganicFoods) and breathe in a better quality of air, especially if you choose to camp out on BLM.gov or National Forest land. Also, if you can’t afford the high cost of medications, think about living in a car, van or a similar vehicle.
Homelessness: Having too many bills can make anyone sick or homeless in a heartbeat. Many women and men have these big ’empty’ homes and can barely keep their heads above water because of all these high bills. They are underwater on their mortgage and don’t have a way out. So these are the individuals that need to consider moving into a car, van, or similar vehicle, especially if they are looking at becoming homeless. Land is the most valuable commodity you can have so don’t think I am telling you to just give your land away — because I am not. Unless you take care of yourself and your land and especially pay your taxes, the government is going to take it anyway. So do something with it or turn it over to family members who can. You can turn your land into an RV park or allow others to rent part of it to grow foods. When buying a house, only buy a house that does not have Homeowner’s Association (HOAs) fees because you probably won’t be able to grow foods in the front yard. If you need a break from it all, take a break and come out on the road and build a new life for yourself.
Any of these situations can cause even the sanest of people to come unglued — physically, mentally and spiritually — and this is what is happening today. So consider leaving it all behind and get out here on the road.
How To Fix Your Car Up to Live in It
Since RVs are made so poorly with cheap material and can break in half 20 miles down the road, you need to consider converting other vehicles for your traveling pleasures.
Keep in mind that Camper Trucks and Vans are also called “RVs” and/or “Motorhomes.” Many travelers today because of the economy and just to be able to travel and see some beautiful sites are living in small and large cars, SUVs, trucks, mini-vans, camper trucks, camper vans, box vans, cargo vans, old bread trucks, converted Federal Express and U-haul trucks and horse trailers, buses, etc. The sky is the limit in what type of vehicle you can live or camp out in.
No one really want to live or sleep in their cars, but many are making it work today. Many families sleep in their cars when they go camping — so why not live in it full-time?
Despite what you might think living in a car, van or a similar vehicle can be safer than living on the streets. Our ancestors used to live in caves, so why are we as a society looking down on anyone for sleeping in their cars — whether they are ‘homeless’ or just want the luxury of being mobile to travel around the country and save on gas?
Many with jobs and businesses do utilize their vehicles to work in, but a majority of people who sleep in cars, vans, RVs and other vehicles — LIVE OUT of their vehicles.
They spend their time during the day out of the vehicle engaging in activities, while returning to the vehicles at nighttime for sleep.
Many Car and Van Dwellers believe RVers look down on them for sleeping in a car, van or similar vehicle. I am sure they look at Car and Van Dwellers as being ‘primitive’ because many don’t have running water, bathrooms or toilets.
However, we are all the same — #OneCommunity of ‘Wanderers, Gypsies, and Nomads’. Again, this is a #Kind and #Brave community so let’s take care of each other.
If you live in a car, you can sleep in the front seat, passenger seat or back seat or remove the front passenger seat or back seats for more comfort. It all depends on the size of the person and which angle you will find most comfortable.
Once you lay the driver or passenger seat back, for many this can be a comfortable position. You can remove the front passenger seat and put a board or plank down from Home Depot or Lowe’s — get an inflatable camping bag, pillow and sleeping bag and you should be quite comfortable sleeping in your car. You can also use an air mattress.
Or you can lay down the back seats or remove them totally and fix the area up like the front passenger seat with your legs extending in the trunk area. These two positions should allow you to be quite comfortable living in your car or a bigger vehicle.
Why You Should Buy A ‘Toyota Prius’ To Live in
Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com also recommends a ‘Toyota Prius’ as the type of car many should buy. There are Prius groups on facebook, especially a group for women Prius owners.
You can start any car type group on facebook and hold events at meetup.com or join “Bob Wells Caravans” at www.Meetup.com/Caravans.
Many of these caravans are near towns — where you can still shop and/or use your phone so don’t think you will be out there in some isolated area. Caravans are a great way to meet others on the road – build relationships or even travel together.
You can get a ‘Toyota Prius’ and save $1000 a month on rent and do your work at McDonald’s, Starbucks, Libraries, Panera Bread, and other businesses with FREE wi-fi.
Some even park in front of libraries, Target, McDonald’s, etc. and stay in their cars and use their wi-fi for free. You may or may not need a ‘wi-fi extender’ for this, however, ‘the sky is the limit’ on how you can work on a ‘remote job’ or run a business from your car, van or a similar vehicle and be quite happy as you travel around the country and meet great friends and see some beautiful sites — or just survive as a ‘Car Dweller.’
Living in a Car vs. Living in A Van
Living in a car is no different than living in a van. Of course, living in a car will not give you as much space as living in a van, but you can be totally happy living in either of these.
Reasons to travel by car versus a van or RV:
It’s quick.
Great mileage.
Great mobility so you can get up and go.
Great for stealth camping.
Most families already have a car so start with what you got. It’s more affordable than a Class B van, Class B plus (also called a ‘Class C’), Class A, Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel.
You can get a used car or van for $2000 to $5000 on autotrader.com, facebook marketplace, eBay, craigslist or even cheaper from a personal seller.
If you only have a car and not a van, then set up your car and travel around the country and prepare to have fun. You can add tents to your car to extend your living area and space when out camping.
What you need to live in a car or van successfully:
Food
Bottled Water
Eating Utensils (Folks, Spoons, Bowls, Plates)
Paper Towels/Napkins
Wet Wipes
Toilet Paper
Trash Bags
Bed/Sleeping Bag (Inflatable Camping Mattress and/or Air Mattress)
Pillow
Knife/Swiss Army Knife
Flashlight
Mini Travel Umbrella
Sunglasses
Pee Bottle/Toilet Pot (Collapsible Toilet)
Small Fans (in the summertime)
First Aid Kit
Ice Chess/Cooler (Coleman Extreme Cooler – will keep ice for up to – maybe a week) or an Ice Chess that runs on a 9 or 12-volt battery. Many van dwellers have the Yeti coolers and there are iceless coolers by Igloo.).
Inverter/Generator, which you can charge while driving and run your phone, computer, iPad, blender, steamer, etc.
You can wash off with wipes, buy a pop-up shower tent, use Solar Showers or take showers at gyms such as 24-hour fitness, Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, YMCAs, etc.
You can also take showers at CouchSurfing.com, truck stops, state and county parks, hotels, at friends and family member’ homes, etc. In places like Florida, they have showers on beaches along with potable water.
While in your car you can watch movies on Netflix.com, Amazon.com, and Hulu.com on your phone. To live in a van (minivan, SUV, camper van or some type of other larger vehicle than a car), you want to go ahead and purchase a good house battery, inverter and solar so you can work inside of the van on a computer, iPad, etc. or watch TV. There are also portable solar kits for those living in their cars.
Car and Van Dwellers – Sleeping or Camping in Tents
If you are sleeping in your car and/or van, you also should have a tent with you. Springbar.com has the best quality of tents that lasts a while. The tents are really sturdy and can hold up in high winds.
Genji Sports Instant Camping tents are a great quality ‘pop-up’ tent, which means you can put it up and take it down in a hurry.
Ozark Trail tents are another good tent, but it was made in China, which means it might blow away in high winds. Kodiak Canvas tents are another tent used by Car or Van Dwellers.
If you arrive in your car or van as a ‘campground host’ or when you just go camping, bring a tent along especially if you need to take a break from sleeping in a car or van.
Also, know up-front that many campgrounds require those arriving in cars and vans to bring a tent along. They require you to sleep in the tents or you can set up the tent ‘as a disguise’ — for safety purposes — and still sleep in your car or van.
Remember that most of these camps are empty during the week so this will be a great time to stay there — hassle-free. On weekends you can go to other places or do #StealthCamping in urban areas.
Some camping areas charge $5 to $25 a day for cars, vans, and RVs. Some have a limit of 14 days then you might have to go to another camp area, but can come back to that same spot in 14 to 30 to 45 days. And many of the camps are right next to each other.
If you are going camping in a car or van bring a head lamp and/or Luci Light (powered in the daytime by solar), fire starter and proper clothing. Try to bring more than one coat.
For cooking when camping or when living in a car or van, you can also use these items:
toaster oven
induction plate (could interfere with cardiac pacemakers)
instant pot
air fryer
blender
steamer
Know the regulations and laws wherever you are. You can also bring chairs and tools along. You can tailgate off your truck or the back of your car.
FREE Places to Park Cars or Vans While On the Road
If you need a place to park, you can go on Craigslist and put an ad in it and offer $100 a month (or less) to park in someone’s driveway or on their land.
If you do this, the goal is to show up after dark and leave before daylight. I am sure homeowners, especially the elderly, who have houses and land would love to make this ‘extra money’ every month and you will have a safe, ‘hassle-free’ place to park.
Make sure you google ‘FREE parking’ in the city you are in. Other FREE places to park your car, another larger vehicle or a van include:
Rest Areas
Truck Stops
Walmart (24 hours)
Kmart (24 hours)
Hospitals
Hotels
Motels
Bass Pro Shops (also own Cabela’s) allows Van Dwellers – maybe Car Dwellers.
Cracker Barrel allows Van Dwellers – maybe Car Dwellers.
Tribal Lands (You ask permission from a tribal council. And pay a permit fee)
State, City or Community Parks (Look for signs that say 24 parking)
City, County or Regional and Private Campgrounds
BLM.gov Land (It’s everywhere but mostly on the west coast). Camp on BLM land with small or large groups of people to be safe, especially if you are a solo female traveler or join Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com Caravans at www.Meetup.com/Caravans).
You can do “Driveway or Mooch Surfing” (also “Couch Surfing” — staying on someone’s couch) in a family’ member, friend or someone’s driveway. Cars and Van Dwellers can do this easier than larger RVs.
Residential Areas (Respect “No Parking Signs.” Do not park on private property. Somebody is always watching).
Apartment Complexes (There is usually street parking there too. Google or go to Craiglist and look for apartments for rent. Big apartment complexes ‘without gates’ are a great idea, especially for Car and Van Dwellers).
Community College parking lots (Check hours of Campus police. It’s usually 10:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.).
Strip Malls or Shopping Malls that are opened 24 hours, but they might have security guards.
Car Dealerships (Go to the service area especially if they work on the type of car or van you drive)
HarvestHosts.com allows Van Dwellers and RVers (not Car Dwellers). These are wineries, farms, breweries, etc. Memberships are $50 a year. (Owner name is Joel). They only take up to 5 RVers or Van Dwellers a night so you need to make reservations. You need to buy wine, cheese, and other products, while you are there.
Again, a van will give you more space and you can set it up just like an RV. Most vans can also park anywhere an RV can park. They have ‘Class B Vans’ which is the same size as regular vans so vans are also considered RVs and Motorhomes.
AllTrails (To find hiking trails. Subscription is $29.99 a year).
Apps To Monitor Gas
You will save gas as long as you stay in one location so if you stay weekly or monthly, you will save gas.
Apps to help you monitor your gas include:
Gas Buddy
Fuelly
Gas Guru
Gas Cubby
GasPricesTriple.com
Weather Apps
Windy.com (gives you 3-hour updates, wind speed, wind directions, wind gust, and Hurricanes forecasts)
The Weather Channel
Weather
My Radar
Weather Bug
It’s up to you whether you camp out or live in a compact car, a larger vehicle or a van. Remember to start with what you have. If that is a car then get in your car and get out here on the road and enjoy yourself and/or save your sanity.
Read my article entitled “What You Need to Know Before Starting #VanLife.” Even though you live in a Car, Van, a similar vehicle or RV, you can truly still live “The Good Life” by getting out of your COMFORT ZONE and putting one foot in front of the other and say the words — “No more struggles, no more pain, no more headaches, no more heartaches. I am building a new life and I am doing it now.” Welcome aboard the #FreedomExpress!
Find out more great info on Car Camping and Car Living in these groups:
Share this info with the people you love and don’t forget to ‘Live, Love and Enjoy the Journey’ and be an active part of my NEW JOURNEY, new community, and blog at www.SimpleLifeRVing.com.
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
Don’t be afraid to #ChaseHappiness. That is the true meaning of life. Many, like myself, just want to live an #Adventurous and #Mobile
lifestyle and it’s nothing wrong with
#ChasingHappiness.
Everyone knows exactly what makes them happy so the goal is not to settle for a life that you feel will take your inner soul.
Many are ‘taking the bull by the horn’ or doing something difficult in a brave and determined way — and creating a life that they can truly love.
For the rest of their lives and on their death beds, they will have a #brainbank ‘full of memories’ with stories to share with the people they truly love #WhatALife, #ChasingHappiness.
It’s no wonder this is the year I decided to go Full-Time RVing. I started off the New Year reading a book entitled “The Happiness Project.”
The book suggested I do my own “Happiness Project” so I wanted to REPOST my happiness project steps I am taking throughout the year to bring even more happiness into my life, especially as I embark on my new adventures as a Full-Time RVer (or #VanDweller).
Just some of the steps that I put together in “My Happiness Project” include:
Listen to Music More
Music stimulates the part of your brain that causes happiness. Listening to music can create peak emotions, which increase the amount of dopamine, a specific neurotransmitter that is produced in the brain and helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure centers.
Meditation
I am a big believer in ‘Meditation’. It makes your mind sharper and alert along with reducing stress and enhancing positive energy.
Some schools are even using meditation to help kids deal with stressful situations. You can find great meditation music on youtube.com or download a Meditation App on your phone or computer.
You can meditate sitting up or lying down. You can meditate from the comfort of your own home for 15 to 30 minutes every day or find a meetup.com group or another meditation group in your community.
Do Yoga
Yoga, like Meditation, is extremely good for the brain. They both are actually two of the best exercises for the human brain.
If you have never done yoga before then start now. Not only will it increase your flexibility, but it will prevent middle-age spread. This is an exercise the entire family can do.
You can do yoga from the comfort of your home by downloading a Yoga App on your phone or computer or watch it on youtube.com.
Engage in ‘Laughter Yoga’
Yoga is an exercise that is extremely good for the brain. It’s true that laughter will bring in even more laughter. In my last city, I learned about ‘laughter yoga.’ These laughter yoga groups are located on meetup.com or form these laughter yoga groups your own self.
Replace Negative Thoughts with Good Thoughts
To be happy you have to think positive thoughts. This will take some practice, but it can be done. It helps when you surround yourself with positive people and positive things (memories).
Every time you get a negative thought in your mind, replace it right away with a positive thought. This is why it’s important to have great information in your brain bank.
Do Hypnosis
I actually had a hypnosis session for ‘sleep issues’ in my last city and it worked. A professional told me how to do an exercise when I had trouble falling to sleep. Sleep is extremely important so hypnosis for bringing more happiness into your life probably could work.
Keep a Food Diary Journal
Most people don’t have any idea what they eat during the day, so therefore, keep a food diary. Certain foods can actually make you sad.
I only eat blood type foods, which not only make me happy but give me energy as well. There are Vegan, Vegetarian, Blood Type, Gluten-Free, Paleo, Keto, and other diets.
The problem is most folks today eat the Standard American Diet (also called “SAD”) and that should tell you something. The diet is full of processed foods with no nutritional value and can actually cause you to be sad and depressed.
Eat At Home
When you eat out, you have no idea what ingredients are in your foods, which can cause an allergic reaction or these foods can make you sad.
Sing In the Morning
Mornings set the tone for the entire day so sing in the morning and be happy. Most people are more productive from 8:00-12:00 p.m., so sing and just be happy.
Stop Watching TV
Television is negative today and it does nothing but forces you — just like Hollywood – to think negatively about your life. It does nothing but ‘robs your soul’ of fun and happiness.
Try especially to avoid turning it on in the mornings — your most productive time of the day. Instead, listen to laughter yoga, or motivational speakers on Youtube.
No one pays for cable anymore. You can easily rent movies on Netflix.com, Amazon.com, Hulu.com, etc. You can receive all your news from independent media by email so subscribe to independent media websites and turn off the TV.
Exercise
Exercising releases feel-good endorphins. It is a great way to change your mood so make sure you exercise several days a week or find a hobby that is physical, such as walking, hiking, swimming, tennis, etc.
Get More Sleep
You should get at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep every night. Children ages 18 or younger, need 9 or 10 hours of sleep.
Most people don’t know it but if you don’t get enough sleep, you won’t just be in a bad mood all day, but you can cause issues in your marriage and family, and make you crave bad foods.
So invest in a good mattress and pillow. The goal is to go to bed at the same time every night and get up the same time every day — even on weekends.
Give Up Alcohol
Try to take #BabySteps and give up alcohol. Not only does alcohol make you sleepy, but it can make you SAD. It has a negative effect on the brain.
Hang Out With Enthusiastic Friends
Make time for friends — but stop gossiping. Having strong social bonds is a key to happiness. People get a mood boost from contact with others.
However, select good people to be in your circle. No one wants to be around negative, ‘doom and gloom’ people, so hang out with others that are enthusiastic about life.
As I travel around the country, I make it a point to visit friends. Many are now elderly so I guess you can say I do welfare checks on my friends especially the ones that are still enthusiastic about life.
Watch What You Say To People – #WordsMatter
Many people are on edge today so watch what you are saying to people. Even when you make posts on social media, just watch what you are saying to people. Try to choose nice and uplifting words.
Don’t Focus on a Bad Mood
Try not to focus on a bad mood – it will pass. Go for a walk or engage in an activity. Men are better at this than women. Women continue to focus on a bad mood so this might take some practice for women.
Use Your Good Dishes
Use your good dishes. Why set aside these things you might never get to use, therefore, use your good dishes.
Clean Up Clutter
I started my career off as a secretary, so in order for me to be able to write every day and be productive, I need a clutter-free environment.
So clean up your space, place, and throw stuff out especially clothes that you no longer wear. If you have things in your closet that you know you are not going to wear — get rid of them. If you have clothing with sentimental value, keep it somewhere else in your house.
Tackle A Long-Delayed Chore
Once you complete a chore that you have been putting off, it will bring more happiness.
Act The Way You Want To Feel
Smile and act happy and somehow you will get there. Children smile hundreds of times a day, however, adults only smile 4 to 17 times a day – so smile more.
Do New Things
People who do new things are apt to be happier than people who continue to do the same things day in and out.
This is why I travel to new cities and meet new people. It brings so much happiness into my life.
Do Fun Things
Books are fun for me. Selecting them and reading non-fiction books are so much fun especially ‘self-help’ books.
Also, I love going to meetup.com meetings and meeting new people. I also enjoy traveling, photography, surfing the internet, crocheting, sewing, dancing, watching movies and going to the gym.
Be More Generous
Do things like helping others think big. Give other people great suggestions. Doing good deeds brings happiness and remember the best way to make others happy is to be happy yourself.
Bring People Together
Introduce people to other people. Set up a high school reunion or another event. Hold events at your home or hold a meetup.com meeting in your community.
Do What You Love
If you are in a job that you no longer enjoy, get another one — even in another city, go back to school or start a business. Do what you love and allow your kids to do what they love – youth business ownership.
Downsize Your Living Arrangements
At 62 I was seriously thinking about obtaining a “Tiny Home” to live in until I came up with the idea of Full-Time RVing. I am currently living in an Efficiency/Studio apartment so downsizing my living arrangements have made me much happier.
Because I am saving money from downsizing, I now have more funds to eat better foods and travel, which is more important to me than buying ‘shiny things’ – so live a #MinimalistLifestyle.
Visit Libraries
Many people today don’t even step into libraries anymore. Libraries are a great place to find interesting information and people. As I travel around the country, I always visit as many libraries as I can.
Female University Student Sitting on a Library Floor Reading a Book
Most have a bulletin board to see local events or find out what events are being held in the libraries. I always ask if I can hold my own events in these facilities (seminars and workshops). I also check out library books and read magazines or just bring my laptop and work on my other projects there.
Start A Blog
You can start a free blog at www.Blogger.com or www.WordPress.com. Find some way to put down your thoughts that can possibly turn into a book project. A blog or journaling will work. Blog about what you are passionate about. Try to blog every day or at least every other day.
Happy People Make Good Marriage Mates
Men are not attracted to women who are not happy. Happy people find it easier to get married and stay married.
Get An Outdoor and Indoor Game
Couples should have an indoor and outdoor game in order to keep interests in their relationship.
Hug Your Spouse More
It’s important to practice hugging more especially your spouse, mate, significant other or partner and especially your children. It will make a big difference in how you view the world and how it views you.
Don’t Ignore Your Spouse
Many people end up less considerate of their mates. Have date nights with your spouse and spend quality time together. Show each other love and put each other first. Be nice to each other and treat your mate better than you treat others.
Don’t Dump Minor Issues On Your Mate
Couples do pick up on the mood of their spouses, so, therefore, it’s important not to dump your minor issues on your spouse.
Don’t allow nagging and petty issues to ruin your relationship. Be happy, stop complaining and blaming your spouse, mate, significant other or partner for petty issues.
Read Books on Happy Relationships
There are tons of great reading material out there for people in relationships. Men and women approach relationships, especially intimacy differently because “Men Are From Mars and Women are from Venus.” Read the book “Love After 50” so you can keep an active sex life as you age.
Children Bring Happiness
Children do bring more happiness to relationships. You might have ups and downs when you have children, but overall, people are happier with children. If you can’t have children today because of GMOs, contact surrogacy programs, do IVF or adopt.
Keep Happy Memories Alive
Keep happy memories around you because they will make you #Happy. I keep pictures of myself and my children close to my work area. My photo albums are not far away.
Send photos to family members, but be careful posting pictures online especially pictures of your children with all the pedophiles collecting these pictures today. I also kept all my daughter’s memorabilia from their schools and presented it to them when they were grown.
Take Time for Family Projects
Sometimes the happiness comes from planning a family home project. I made sure my family had cakes, balloons, and cards for their birthdays. I even took pictures for 18 years of both my daughter’s birthdays. Family projects excited me especially when I knew everyone would get a kick out of the work I put in.
Go Off the Beaten Path
Get your creative juices going by doing different things. Everyone has skills and talents which are of value to others so do things that excite you. Learn to cook, sew or shoot a gun. Create your own meetup.com group.
Take Time to Be Silly
Let your silly-side shine through. Most people don’t know that I have a very ‘comedic side’ that I used to have in school growing up. As I get older and as life gets easier as a Senior, it is definitely coming back to me.
Feel Right
Try to feel right by living the life you know you are supposed to be living. Don’t think you will be happier in the future than you are in the present.
Choose Joy and Happiness
You have to wake up and choose to be happy. I do this when I spring out of bed every day. First thing I do is juice green foods which release ‘feel-good’ serotonin in my brain, which helps me feel good. Then I go and work out, which releases ‘feel-good’ endorphins in my brain. So get a ‘feel-good’ routine for you and your family.
Being happy can help you:
Be more productive.
Makes you more helpful.
Makes you more likable.
Makes you friendlier.
Makes you a better leader.
Makes you physically attractive.
What I did after listening to the audiobook “The Happiness Project” was to listen to it again for the second time. Then I recommended it to my two daughters and other people that I care deeply about.
I also started a happiness box, which was recommended by the author. In this box, I place things that automatically make me #Happy when I open it.
Practice the steps in this article and share them with the people you care deeply about. Make this the year you stop being selfish and start sharing great information with the ones you love. Love yourself and become even happier this year. You deserve it! Good luck!!!
Cathy Harris is a #VanDweller living ‘The Good Life.’ Her blog website is SimpleLifeRVing.com. She is also an Empowerment and Motivational Speaker, Advice Columnist at DearCathy.com, Non-GMO Health and Wellness Expert, Business and Love Coach and Self-Publishing Expert and the author of 26 non-fiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. Her books cover topics such as family and community empowerment, health, youth and adult entrepreneurship, writing/publishing, workplace discrimination, whistleblowing, government, law enforcement, domestic and international traveling, politics, media, beauty, car buying and selling for women, aging/retirement – just to name a few. She offers seminars, workshops, and consultations at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com.
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