Wildlife May Be Right Outside Your RV Door

Our dog Barney (a miniature schnauzer) was performing his "watch dog bark" so I come flying out of the RV to see what's going on. Two bison are trotting down the campground road stirring up a cloud of dust. I took the dog off his leash and put him back in the trailer where it was safe. It is not unusual to see wildlife while RVing in places like national or state parks. I took this photo of my son looking out the RV window while a cow elk was eating lunch. You expect to see wild animals in these places because they are protected. It's almost like one of those drive through zoos.

Last night we stayed at Mountain View RV Park in Van Horn, Texas. This morning I'm taking a shower, all lathered up and preparing to sing when Mrs. Professor yells something down the hall. I turn the shower off and ask her to repeat what she said. "There's a mountain lion or something walking through the park." I bolt out of the shower dripping water all over the place and sure enough there is a big cat strolling through the park. I grabbed the camera aimed for the close-up and click - nothing. The camera batteries were dead. Now there were two wild things in the park. I wanted to get that picture for you, my loyal readers, so I quickly rifled through the cabinets looking for some spare batteries, hoping the neighbors were not watching. Wildlife doesn't normally pose for me like it does for National Geographic. I find the extra batteries and here is the bobcat walking under the RV sign. Finding the shade of the RV sign, the bobcat sat down in the lower left hand corner of this photo near the bolder.The moral of this story is I didn't expect a puppy eating bobcat to be roaming around an RV park just off Interstate 10. I'm glad our fellow campers had not left their pets out unattended. Over the years we've had raccoons, skunks, armadillos, snakes and who knows what else crawl around under our RV and the RVs of our fellow campers. Wildlife can strike at any moment so be prepared. Keep your food locked-up and dispose properly of your garbage. There's nothing worse than a family of raccoons spreading your trash all over your campsite. Bears will break you car or truck windows if they smell something tasty inside. One night I heard a pounding on the truck window of the camper in the site next to me. A bear was trying to brake the glass to get at the yummy ice chest in the front seat. My neighbor scarred him off but he came back the next night and started the same routine. He wasn't necessarily smarter than the average bear, just determined.

If you want to keep Fifi around a while longer don't leave her outside unattended. Besides, it's against the law to feed the wildlife. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

How Will You Store Your Kayak On Your Small RV

Smaller RVs are becoming more popular all the time. This is great because it means more new ideas for getting the most out of them will coming to the surface. This Roadtrek conversion RV sports a rear Kayak carrier. The carrier fits into an extra receiver hitch on the driver side. The rack securely holds the kayak at the bottom in the upright position. Pull the pin and the rack pivots down for easy loading and unloading. The upper portion of the kayak is held in place by a single cargo strap. Since the kayak covers the brake and signal light on the vehicle, an additional signal light is part of the rack on the driver’s side. RVers are out to have fun and new innovations are making it possible. Out paddling with the current - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Neon Eateries Serve Up Good Grub To RVers

RVers are sometimes forced to eat at chain restaurants because the surrounding area lacks alternatives. Chain restaurants have the advantage of ultimate consistency because the mongo double cheese tastes the same in Brooklyn as it does in Seattle. The downfall of chain restaurants is they are boring and lack character. I much prefer the neon eateries and cafes scattered around the country. I’ve had poor meals in some of these antique restaurants, but I’ve had far more good than bad. In these places you are entering a family atmosphere and a piece of Americana. Many of the folks are “regulars” and can be quite colorful. Conversation is robust and so is the coffee. You could grab a paper before you go in, but you’ll probably find one ready to read at the counter. Brownies Cafe in Yuma, Arizona is just such a place. Here the owner for 30 years, Bobby Brooks poses with his waitress crew. You can’t get meatloaf or liver and onions at McFranchise. In fact, you can’t even get a ceramic coffee cup or real silverware. Brownies serves up great meals at a reasonable price and the waitresses serve up a healthy dose of playful sarcasm too. The menus are sealed in plastic and the food is as close to home cookin’ as you’ll get. These old fashioned restaurants are part of our living history and great places to take the whole family. So in your travels around the country be sure to take in the ambiance of a few of these neon eateries, you’ll be glad you did. Out searching for the ultimate milkshake - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RV Strategies For Traveling Cross Country

Like many of you we’ve pulled or driven RVs back and forth and up and down across the United Stats for many years. Over time you develop a pattern of travel that best suits your individual tastes. We try not to travel more than 250 miles a day. I enjoy taking in the countryside and traveling at a leisurely pace. I’m also slowing down to 65 mph and under to conserve fuel. I try not to travel when it’s dark because it’s fatiguing and more dangerous - besides, I can’t see the country in the dark. This week we’ll be traveling from Yuma, Arizona to Corpus Christi, Texas.

For campgrounds we frequently use Passport America member campgrounds because you can camp for half price. Membership in Passport America is not expensive and you receive a book with member campgrounds listed by state. Happy Camper is another great program similar to Passport America. We find these campgrounds relaxing and accommodating when we’re moving cross country. We’re not looking for a luxury resort, but rather a safe and clean campground with hook-ups that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. City and State campgrounds are good and many fairgrounds have inexpensive overnight camping.

Overnight dry camping is free and convenient for travelers. We don’t overnight in rest areas because of noise and lack of safety. There are much better alternatives including shopping centers, truck stops, BLM land, police stations, casinos, Cracker Barrel Restaurants, parks, and many other places including hundreds of free campgrounds listed at FreeCampgrounds.com. We like casinos even though we don’t gamble. When overnighting at WalMart or Sam’s Club we look for signs that prohibit overnight camping. RVbookstore.com has a book that lists all the WalMart stores where local laws prohibit overnight camping. It’s generally a good idea to park near other RVs in the far reaches of the parking lot. However, please be respectful of other RVers. Don’t park next to someone and run your generator all night - you might be missing your tire air pressure the next morning. If you plan on spending the night at a shopping center, it’s always a good idea to ask the store manager for permission to spend the night. We’ve stayed in the parking lots of JC Penny, Target, and other major brand stores after obtaining permission.

Truck stop overnight parking is convenient because of easy access to freeways. They usually have restaurants and a convenience store. The downside of truck stops is the noise (close to the freeway) and trucks dieseling their engines all night or running their refrigerated trailers. We generally use them as a last resort.

If you want to see America don’t be in a hurry. Stop in a place for several weeks and explore the surrounding area. Be flexible and allow yourself to break away from your plan. Stop and read the historical markers, take the mysterious roads, check out the museums, eat at the local restaurants, cruise down the main streets of small town America. One of the most rewarding things you can do is get to know the local people. Allow yourself ample time and you’ll be rewarded beyond your expectations. Looking forward to seeing you on the RV road - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Lasso Your RV Dinghy Hitch

RVer Wayne Nixon from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada was our next door neighbor for a couple weeks. He and his wife Alice are slowly making their way to Canada because they need to be back in time to keep their Canadian health insurance in force. Wayne and I walked across the border into Mexico on several occasions to buy the world's greatest hot dogs. As they were preparing to leave Wayne pulls up behind his motorhome with his towed vehicle and a lasso around his front mounted tongue hitch. He held the rope in one hand and applied the brakes causing the tongue hitch to fall forward. He maneuvered the vehicle so that the hitch rested on top of the hitch ball. This simple maneuver allows him to easily hook-up to his motorhome. RVers are very resourseful when it comes to making things easier to use and maintain. Rounding up great ideas - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVers May Now Carry Medical Records In Their Pockets

You’re out relaxing under your RV awning when you notice your neighbor fall to the ground unconscious. You call 911 and the ambulance is on the way. Fortunately for your neighbor he has the “EZ Med Traveler” USB thumb drive keychain containing all his medical information. This is Tammy Porter an area representative for “EZ Med traveler”. She says this information is in Microsoft Word format and you can include prescriptions, drug allergies, medical history, insurance, vaccines and more. You can take this to you imaging facility and they can download your X-rays, and imaging information as well. The brochure states that more than 12,000 people died last year because of lack of information for emergency personnel. Some 47,000 people died because of drug interactions that could have been avoided had emergency personnel been informed. You have to fill in the information yourself using an easy fill-in-the-blank form. The cost is $34.95 plus $4.95 S/H. You may retrieve more information at the website here: EZ Med Traveler. Many health care professionals including emergency response personnel know about these keychain medical records so even if you are in an accident and unconscious they can still retrieve your medical information. Is this a great idea or what? Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

My Refrigerator Works So Why Heed The Recall

During my daily walking adventure I came across this Alpha 5th wheel. It was destroyed by fire. You can tell it began in the refrigerator compartment because the fire burned through the exterior wall at that point. I asked around and found out it was indeed caused by the refrigerator and the owners were away from the trailer when the fire started. There are several causes for a fire in liquid propane gas appliances. Insects building nests in or near the burn tube can cause fire. A routine inspection and a blast from an air compressor should help prevent this from occurring. Loose fittings, improper pilot adjustment and LPG line leaks are other causes. At RVtravel.com we tell you about refrigerator recalls because we understand not everyone receives a recall letter from the manufacturer. If they send it to the original owner of the RV you might not receive the notice. However, many folks tend to ignore these recall notices not thinking it important because, after all, their refrigerator is working fine thank you. Hopefully these photos will encourage you to take the time to have your recall item inspected and fixed. It could save your life and your RV. Putting your safety first - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVers Enjoy Yuma Jailhouse Attraction

Yuma, Arizona is a mecca for RVers during the winter months. There are many things to occupy one’s time here and in the past many did time here. The Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. but after that all the inmates must be back in their cells. This prison was constructed by the inmates themselves. It was hot in the summer without air conditioning and there was no gym, cable TV or other items we currently supply our convicts courtesy taxpayer dollars. The most interesting sight is the prison cemetery. Here on a knoll overlooking the Colorado River are the remains of 104 inmates. Most of them died from tuberculosis but the brass memorial plaque leans more towards the dramatic saying, “Of the 3,069 convicts sentenced to Yua Prison 111 met their death. Disease, accident, murder, suicide and escape attempts were the causes of their demise. The remains of 104 unfortunate souls are interred in this cemetery.” There are no individual head stones or religious markers, just rocks. RV parking is available although there is not enough room for a motorhome with a towed vehicle to turn around. Oh, and don’t get any ideas about dropping off your grandkids - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

One Side Mount ATV/RV Combo To Go

Many RVers enjoy riding off-road vehicles. The four wheel ATVs are especially popular and RVers have come up with some great ways to get them to their favorite off-road destinations. Here is an example of the side mount system. A metal rack extends across the truck bed and ramps attach to the side. The operator drives the ATV up the ramps onto the back of the truck. Retaining bars block the wheels preventing the ATV from overshooting the truck bed (that would be bad - but admittedly fun to watch). If you have a travel trailer and want to take along your ATV this option may be perfect for you. I've also seen two ATVs being carried in this manner. The nice thing about this arrangement is most of the dust is blown off your ATV before you get back home. Staying on top of things - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Your Old RV Could Be A Palace To Someone In Need

Have an old RV sitting around but aren't sure what to do with it? You may want to consider giving it to a family who needs it. As our economy heads south some families find themselves out on the street without a roof over their heads. You may think I'm kidding about this, but I've seen it and it's a real problem. An increasing number of people are loosing their homes to foreclosure every day. Watch this BBC video to learn about families living in a tent city right outside Los Angeles.

Place an add in one of your local sale papers with titles like "The Thrifty Nickel" or "The Penny Saver" and you should have no problem finding a home for your old RV. It's a great way to recycle and it will greatly help a family in need. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVs And Boats Go Hand In Hand

From fishing boats to rapids riding kayaks RVers enjoy water craft. The problem is how to take these large items along. For fishing boats many folks install an easy-lift boat lift over the front of their truck. Others take along a Porta-Bote which is a boat that folds for convenient storage. Others use inflatables which can be stored practically anywhere there is space. Motorhome operators have the option of towing a trailer with more toys. For the white water crowd there are many combinations for carrying your kayaks. Motorhomes towing a car can tie them on the roof of the towed vehicle. Class C's without a tow can strap them on top of the rig. RVers with 5th wheels often store them on top of the RV. You can use a commercial rack or make your own out of wood and some tie-down straps. If you decide to carry your water craft on top of your RV, please be very careful when you are hoisting them onto the roof. Even if you've done it a hundred times without incident it only takes one slip to turn a great day into a bad day. And please remember to wear a life jacket while out on the water. Running port and starboard - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing.

Simple Shade Cuts Temperatures Inside RV

One of the easiest ways to stay cool in your RV is to extend your awning. Reflecting the sun away and shading one side of your RV really cuts down on the heat. To make your rig even more enjoyable add a curtain to your awning tube. You can roll these up with your awning or remove them, fold them up and stow them until the next use. You can tie the curtains down or just let them flap in the breeze. Either way, they will provide you with more pleasant temperatures during the dog days of summer. When the wind comes up I always roll up my main awning because I've seen too many RV awnings ripped by the wind. However, I usually leave my window awnings down in light to moderate wind because they don't have as much surface area as the main awning. You can also have snap-on window covers made that will even stand up to heavy wind. Window covers and awnings are an important asset in lowering the inside temperature of your RV. Helping you make it in the shade - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVers Wonder Why Diesel Fuel Prices Are So High

RVers can blame the Chinese, Europe and Congress for higher diesel costs. Diesel engines have been around since their invention in 1892 by a German engineer named Rudolf Diesel. Highway use is 75% while off road use by agriculture, railroad, construction, military and marine craft account for only 25%.

A big part of the reason diesel prices have increased is because in 2006 fuel emission standards kicked in and instead of being 500 parts per million (ppm) sulfur content our legislators are requiring 80 ppm. A barrel of crude oil is now around $110 and out of that barrel we squeeze 7.8 gallons of diesel fuel and 19.4 gallons of gasoline. So why are diesel prices now higher than gasoline prices? “Worldwide demand for diesel fuel and other distillate fuel oils has been increasing steadily, with strong demand in China, Europe and the U.S. putting more pressure on the tight global refining capacity.” You can read more on this issue at the Government Bookshelf.

Another reason for the price difference is the Federal excise tax which is six cents a gallon higher than on gasoline (thank you Congress). In fact a full 20% of each dollar you pay for fuel is pure tax. Not to be outdone California tacks on another 7.25% tax on top of the Federal excise tax already in place and they still can’t seem to fix their roads. Biodiesel, mostly made from soybean oil, mixes 20% biodiesel with 80% petroleum diesel (B20) and helps lubricate your engine because when they produce the ultra low sulfur fuel it removes much of the lubricity. But don't be confused by biodiesel, because it will not reduce the price, in fact, it actually increases the costs of the refining process. This is not just a problem for RVers, it’s a problem for everyone because it drives up prices for everything (inflation) delivered by diesel powered trucks, trains and cargo ships.

Almost everything you buy has the increased price of diesel factored into the final cost. I think I will be writing my representatives in the Congress and Senate about this. The economy is already in a recession and these additional taxes on fuel don’t help. If the government really wanted to “kick start” the economy it would help by eliminating the fuel tax all together. If you value being able to drive or pull your RV around the country you may want to consider writing a few letters to your Congress person yourself. Helping you stay on the RV road - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing.

Hat tip to David Cole on the Country Coach Blog for this lead.

RVer Uses Solar For His Dining Pleasure

This week I caught up with RVer Robert Toby from Cave Junction, Oregon. I was attracted to his campsite because he was using a solar oven. Robert was dry camping or “boondocking” in the Southern California desert. He’s been using a solar oven to make dinner for six years and loves the results. He likes riding his bicycle and exploring and while he’s out for the day, his evening meal is being prepared by the sun. Today he was cooking a pot full of beans. When he opened the tempered glass door a small cloud of steam emerged from the box. He pulled the lid off the pot to revealing a boiling pot of yummy smelling beans. This is a commercially made solar oven that he modified by adding wheels and an elevation locking gimbal box so he can more efficiently point the oven at the sun. To get the sun’s rays lined up on the pot he holds his arm across the plane of the collapsible stainless steel reflectors and adjusts the position of the oven until the shadow of his hand falls directly on the pot. Since the sun moves during the day it’s a good idea to adjust the oven several times for optimum performance, but Robert is frequently gone during the day so he leaves the oven aimed at the path the sun takes across the sky which is sufficient to cook his meals. You can use the commercial version without any modification and it works even when it’s cold outside. Typical operation temperatures are between 300 and 400 degrees depending on how well it’s aimed. These ovens work best on cloudless days and can save you money on propane. This unit is available from Sun Oven for $279.00 including a black round covered enamelware cooking pot and thermometer. You can learn more about this product here Sun Oven. Robert likes this oven because the one piece collapsible reflectors allow for easy storage. He made his own solar oven one time, but likes this model best. He can place two pots on the gimbal platform if he wants a two course meal. You can cook anything in these ovens and they are easy to use and maintain. The best part is they don’t cost anything to operate and are environmentally friendly. And no, they don’t work in moonlight! Lighting up your day - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Northward RV Snowbird Migration Begins In Earnest

I was out walking the dog around the RV campground this evening. The sun settling behind the chocolate colored hills emitting a pleasant glow as dusk settled on the park. The birds quited their talk and folks were out visiting with each other in the cool of the day. Down here near Yuma, Arizona it's been in the 80s and 90s and we've had to resort to using our air conditioners in the afternoons. The warmer days make for very pleasant mornings and evenings. We're enjoying sleeping with our bedroom windows open as a gentle breeze ambles through. For many, this is the call to begin following the warm temperature "sweet spot" as it slowly moves northward. The parks down here are beginning to thin out as evidenced by the many empty RV spaces. Spring migration has officially begun. Canadians are especially anxious to return home because they can only be out of Canada a few months each year otherwise they lose their health care coverage. As these snowbirds prepare to leave they have goodbye parties and it's not unusual to see a group of coffee drinkers gathering in the morning to see off RV friends with whom they've spent the winter. Camaraderie is tremendous as always in the RV community. So, as I'm walking the dog I meet Jim from Idaho who just pulled in this afternoon. He's just passing through, but his wife offers me a cold drink. RVers, as a whole, are kind, considerate and just plain nice folks. When I returned to our motorhome our Canadian neighbor, Wayne, brought some hot dogs he just picked up in Mexico. The Mexican border is walking distance from our RV park and Wayne has been buying these hot dogs for several years from the same vendor. He usually comes back across the border with an armload of these for fellow RVers. My wife (who is munching on the half that is missing in the photo) says they are the best hot dogs she's ever tasted and I must agree. Somebody needs to sign this guy up for a Mexican hot dog franchise....Wow! With this kind of hospitality and kindness rampant in the RV community it's no wonder people flock back to these campgrounds each winter. It's not unusual for life long friendship bonds to develop in these RV parks. You will be hard pressed to find a more loving and caring community of people than those who call themselves RVers. So now you understand if you see someone wiping an eye as they say "goodby" to their snowbird buddies. The flight back north has officially begun. Reporting from the southwest - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

FMCA Pomona RV Rally A Mixed Bag

This in from correspondent Phil Tullar after visiting the 2008 FMCA RV rally in Pomona, California:

"We attended the rally as planned. In our opinion, it was not as well attended as in previous years. Five or six years ago I believe they had about 8,000 attendees. This year we heard only about 2,500 attended. (Don't hold me to that exact number.)

We spoke to a number of vendors. Their comments varied from positive to less than positive. For some, their sales were not as brisk as in years past. The sales for items of necessity seemed strong, but sales for frivolous items were less positive.

RV displays were the usual assortment of ostentatious behemoths. Interest was less than strong. The smaller and newer type-C and Bs seemed to be attracting the interest of many. Our little 23 ft. LTV Freedom II attracted a lot of interest in the parking area."

V. Phil Tullar, Ph.D.
Sergeant Major Retired
College President Emeritus

I posted a feature story about the Tullars and their LTV Freedom II diesel powered motorhome here: STORY. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Add A Generator To Your 5th Wheel or Travel Trailer

RVer Jim Fifer installed this “Juice Box” generator on the back of his 5th wheel. This generator is made by Onan a trusted name in the industry. The generator platform inserts into a receiver hitch so it rides neatly tucked away on the rear of the RV. Jim’s generator runs on liquid propane gas using .6 gallons an hour running full tilt. A propane quick connector is located on the frame at the rear of the 5er. Jim connects a short hose to the generator runs it down through the hole and into the connector on the frame. The generator has it’s own starting battery. When he fires it up he closes the lid and enjoys electricity. It's much easier to boondock if you have a generator. I used a Honda portable generator with our 5th wheel, but it was underpowered and required me to carry gas when I was driving a diesel truck. I had to dig it out of the storage compartment, fill it with fuel, pull the string a few times - it was a hassle.This system is a huge improvement in ease of use and may be the solution you’re looking for. You can purchase the Juice Box at RV parts stores carrying Onan products. Keeping you current - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Are You Considering Long Term Boondocking

Long time RVer Larry Bean is from Prospect, Oregon. He and his wife Fran have been boondocking in Winterhaven, California since October 2007. He’s camped with several other boondocking buddies but they were not the first to camp in this place. The Hernando De Alarcon expedition camped in this same neighborhood on September 5th, 1540 and were the first Europeans to see Alta California. They didn’t have RVs but used boats to go up the Colorado River. The terrain hasn’t changed much since then and there’s really not much to see anyway. But the weather is warm during winter and attracts thousands of snowbird RVers each year. The Town of Yuma is just up the road with all the amenities one needs. The Mexican boarder is within walking distance and you can fish in the canals a stone’s throw away. What more does a boondocker need? Well, they need water. Since the Beans do laundry in their rig they need lots of it. In the back of his Freightliner he carries a 125 gallon fresh water tank with an on demand water pump like you have in your RV. He just hooks the water pump into the “street” connection of his Avion 5th wheel and it’s just like hooking up to the water at an RV park. So what do they do with waste water? They throw a 55 gallon tank into the back of their pick-up and use a macerator to fill it. They drive the truck to a dump station and the rest is history. Yes, but where do they get the electricity to run the washer and dryer? His generator is more than adequate to handle the washer and dryer. Most boondockers use solar panels and wind generators to recharge their batteries during the day. The price is right and the location excellent. You can learn more about boondocking by visiting our blog on that subject here RVtravel Boondocking. With cell phones, satellite TV, internet, water, electric and waste water disposal taken care of it’s easy living. It sure beats shoveling snow and scraping ice off your windshield every morning. With an eye on everything RV - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Flying J Restricts RV Fuel Discount

Flying J must be feeling the pinch at the pump because they have recently restricted the RV fuel discount. Previously you received a one cent discount at the pump for each gallon of fuel by using the loyalty card. As of the first of March you now must purchase food or merchandise in order to receive the discount and you don't get the discount until the following month. Funny, they were courting RVers this year at the FMCA rallies to get this "Free" loyalty card so we could save money - now it's a different story. It's in rule #6 which you can read at their website here Flying J. This is what it says, "RV Real Value monthly fuel discount level is determined by prior months restaurant and merchandise purchases (refer to RV Real Value discount schedule)." I don't know about the rest of you, but if I see a cheaper price at Pilot or TA or another truck stop - guess what? So much for loyalty! Keeping you informed and keeping money in your wallet - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing.

Hat tip to Mike Cebula at the Country Coach forum for the lead on this article.

Enhance Your RV Lifestyle With A Portable Spa

The RV lifestyle doesn’t mean you have to give up luxury. I enjoyed my hot tub spa when we lived in a stick house and now you can bring your spa along with you wherever you go. This “Elegant Comfort Spa2Go” is the most affordable and portable hot tub I’ve seen. This system is great because it all fits into this box for easy storage. Just take it out of the box, inflate, fill and plug it into a 110 electric power source and you’re ready to relax. It seats two to four adults depending on the size and shape of the adult. Here Joy Marshall demonstrates how the floating insulation cover fits on the spa. The fabric cover holds the insulation cover in place and locks down with these easy release clips. You can purchase this for $899.00 bucks including free shipping. This spa will delight you with 127 powerful turbo jets to soothe your soul, not to mention your aches and pains. Order one of these units by contacting Larry & Joy Marshall at (541) 488-3121 (9 to 5 Pacific time) or visit their website here FunLifestyles. They also sell the “Elegant Comfort Spa-N-A-Box” which also runs on standard 110 electric. It looks more like a traditional permanent spa with the attractive wood sides. This spa requires two boxes for storage, but will also seat 4 to 6 adults. It sets up in 20 minutes using a durable vinyl liner. It costs $1,499.00 with free shipping. Since this model requires two boxes, you might want to consider storing them in the back of the towed vehicle when traveling. I met the Marshalls at Quartzsite where they were demonstrating and selling their many excellent products. As readers you need to know I do not receive compensation for advertising products I review. I do it for fun and enjoyment. Sometimes vendors will send me a product for free so I can show you how it works, but other than that I’m not compensated for any product reviews I bring to your attention. Since I’m a free-lance journalist I’m free to tell you If I don’t like something and my long time readers know I’m not bashful if I have a negative opinion about something. So to all my readers I salute you and say "Thank You" for your continued readership. Exposing you to new products enhancing the RV lifestyle - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing.

RV Pet Cemetery Becomes A Monument To Man's Best Friends

We are at Sleepy Hollow RV park near the boarder of Mexico in Winterhaven, California. I like to walk and hike and often discover interesting things. Yesterday I came upon an RV pet cemetery. I know it’s an RV pet cemetery because it’s surrounded by RVers boondocking in the desert. RVers love their pets and nothing brings that home more than a stroll through a monument like this. Before you pass under the sign, you read this tribute carved in a wooden sign:
“Goodbye Old Friend You’ll Be In My Heart Forever. They will not go quietly. The pets who shared our lives in subtle ways they let us know their spirit still survives. Old habits still make us think we hear a scratching at the door or step back when we drop a tasty morsel on the floor. Our feet still go around the place the food dish used to be, and sometimes coming home at night we miss them terribly. And although time might bring new friends and a new food dish to fill. That one place in our hearts belongs to them and always will.”

Snoopy is buried here along with a host of other cats and dogs. Another carved sign reads, “Whoever you are your kindness means more than you’d ever guess. The flowers on every grave. The flag that flies high. The Work on the flowers. You watch over our pets. Than you so much! Muffins parents.” Grave markers clearly indicate names like Tiffany, Sarge, Ruff, Buddy, Blaki, Angel and Blue. Pets like Drummer are commemorated with faded yellow photographs and silk flowers. Brew was obviously Canadian and liked to play. Toby was in the guard dog business. While Fletch inspired this poem by Chris:
Tribute to a Dog

No words can truly thank the dog.
No money match its worth,
As, quite content, it lives to love
Some master here on earth.

A dog will never ask for much,
Some water, warmth and play,
And in exchange, no questions asked,
It gives its life away.

A dog is happy on request,
No matter when or where,
If ever you may need support,
Just call and they’ll be there.

Prepared in their own special way,
To help with all their might,
Those sympathetic eyes confirm,
That right or wrong, you’re right.

Though in this life we know not much,
Beginning unto end,
Still, with a dog, at least we know
We’ll always have a friend.

There are even graves for a stray cat and dog that were hit by a car.On Pee Dee and Pandi’s grave there’s a bit of humor with a sign that reads:
“Heaven goes by favor, if it went by merit, you would stay out and YOUR DOG would go in.” This pet cemetery is free because it doesn’t cost you any money to bury your pet, but it will cost you emotionally as you can’t help but shed a tear as you think about all the love these pets gave their owners over the years. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

I'll Take My Own RV Bed Please

One of the best things about an RV is the bed. As a Navy Chaplain Recruiter my area of responsibility covered all the states west of the Mississippi including Alaska, Hawaii and Guam. This job required me to spend many nights in hotel rooms across the country. I can tell you that I sleep far better in my own bed than any hotel or motel bed I've ever encountered. Who knows what unpleasantness the hotel mattress and bedspread have endured. I can't even bear to walk barefoot across the carpet. I prefer to take along my own mattress in my RV. I have a nice foam topper with fitted sheets and a down blanket. When I fall into my RV bed it embraces me with comfort. I close my eyes and am consumed with sleep is a matter of minutes. Not so with a hotel bed. Sometimes I was tempted to sleep on the floor thinking it would be softer. So for me, one of the outstanding features of an RV is the luxury of your own bed. Even when I backpack I take along a Slumberjack self inflating mattress. My RV hotel room follows me wherever I go exactly the way I like it. So be thankful and sleep well my RV friends as you think of the thousands of unfortunate hotel guests who will lie awake tonight desperately trying to get comfortable. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

RVer Carries Motorized Scooter Wherever He Goes

My good friend and fellow RVer, Ed Grabman relies on his motorized three wheeler to get around. He does everything with it including set-up and take-down of his Country Coach motorhome. He tows a truck behind his motorhome and behind his truck is a lift for his scooter. This lift is made by Bruno and fits into the receiver hitch on his pickup. It swings out of the way so the tail gate comes down for access to the truck bed. An electric motor lowers the floor frame to the ground so Ed can drive his scooter onto the platform. The lift floor frame is adjustable to accommodate several sizes of scooter. Ed likes the grooves because they catch and hold the tires. Once the scooter is on the lift Ed uses the electric controls to lift it off the ground. A mechanical arm moves down and secures the scooter onto the lift as it moves up into the stored position. No other tie-downs are required. Wherever the RV road takes this former Air Force pilot he always has his motorized scooter. The lift folds up when not in use. In the video below Ed demonstrates how his lift operates. Ed and Jean Grabman are wonderful people and I am proud of Ed for RVing despite his disability. He is an inspiration for the rest of us. Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Making The Decision To RV Full Time

Like all important decisions in life the leap to full time RVing is right at the top. We're beginning our fourth year as full timers and looking back I can honestly say it's one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. I’ve wanted to write about this issue for a while and was waiting for a good couple to interview on the subject. This is Dale and Lisa Forsythe. They’ve been RVing for nine years and full-timing for three. I asked Dale what influenced their decision to go full time and he said that they both liked traveling and wanted to retire early. They also wanted to do it while they were still healthy enough to enjoy the experience. He’s got a pacemaker and the health issue was particularly important to Lisa because both her mom and dad died in their 60’s. They started full-timing when he was 54 and she was 45. I asked how he went about preparing to make the leap. Dale told me that Lisa wasn’t too keen on the idea at first so he started planning how they could do it. He read books and internet articles and every time they went camping he would find the full-time RVers and “pick their brains.” She went along with him when he did this and began to warm up to the idea.They decided they would try it and if either one didn’t like it they would stop. Dale says when people would ask her about it at first she would say “We’ll try it for 10 years…” but she doesn’t say that anymore, now she just says she’ a “full-timer” and loves the lifestyle. They sold their house and divided up their stuff between two daughters. Lisa gets to see some of her “former” stuff from time to time when they visit with them. She says the full-time lifestyle taught her to be satisfied with less and to focus on more important things in life instead of the accumulation of more stuff. They full time in this nice New Horizon 5er. Their favorite travel destination is Cody, Wyoming at Buffalo Bill State Park. Her least favorite part about full time RVing is the lack of a bathtub and having to use a laundry. They solve the bathtub issue by checking into a nice hotel a couple times a year. Their preferred camping style is boondocking and they travel with their two dogs Micah (top) and Mocha (bottom). If you’re thinking about becoming a full-time RVer you should know that there are thousands of us out here from all walks of life in all kinds of RV rigs. Talk to us next time you go camping or just come to an RV park or campground where we hang out and we’ll tell you everything we know about the lifestyle good and bad. Living the dream - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Take Control Of Your RV Hoses

Attached to the RV like an umbilical cord, the white water hose is an RV essential. These hoses are white because they stand up to ultra violet radiation and it prevents you from accidentally using a contaminated hose. I carry green hoses for cleaning out the sewer and washing the rig. Before I used Coil n’ Wrap my hose would twist and kink. Now I can roll it up quickly and easily for a neat uniform coil that fits perfectly in my storage compartment. The package comes with instructions or you can watch my video below. Put the Velcro strap on the female side of the hose. Insert the male end through the smaller of the holes in the rubber keeper and slide it back 3 or 4 feet on the hose. Make a coil and insert the male end through the keeper to hold it in place. Use a hand over hand technique to roll the hose into a coil. Screw the ends together and then wrap the Velcro strap around the coil to secure it for storage. You can purchase these from Coil n’ Wrap. Helping you work out the kinks - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Do It Yourself RV Bike Rack

Make a simple and cost effective ladder mount bike rack for your RV. My friend Ed Grabman used a little imagination and made this bike rack out of some 2 x 4s, bolts and screw in hooks. Simply cut two pieces of 2 x 4 that will span your ladder. Temporarily screw them together and drill two holes that will match the diameter of your ladder sides. Also, make sure you drill the holes so they match the width of the ladder sides. Lay the boards down and drill two holes for the retaining bolts and two holes for the retaining hooks. Make sure the holes for the retaining hooks are smaller than the diameter of the retaining hook screws so they will fit snugly. Remove the temporary retaining screws and paint or treat the wood so it will resist weathering. Next assemble the pieces on the ladder. I would mount the rack on top of a ladder wrung to prevent it from sliding down. Screw in the hooks and hang up the bike. Secure the bike with bungee cords, straps, ropes or a combination. Be sure to tie off the front wheel to prevent the handlebars flopping around and gouging or scratching your RV. As an alternative, you could make two of these ladder mounts and hang your bike vertically. Keeping the ideas rolling in - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Extending Your RV Table For More Seating

I recently visited with my RV friends John and Evelyn Culver who are full timing in a 2003 Monaco Windsor motorhome. I asked John if he had done anything new to his coach since I saw him last year. He immediately went into the bedroom and pulled a piece of plywood out from under the bed. He showed me how he was able to make a table extension so they could accommodate more family and friends. On his table there is about a quarter inch space between the table top and the cabinet where the table moves in and out. He cut the plywood to extend his table another 10 inches. He used a router to make the “lip” edge on the plywood to fit snugly under the open space. Evelyn enjoys the bigger table when it’s covered with a tablecloth and surrounded by people she loves. What can you do if your RV doesn’t have a space to slide the extension under? Use a small cargo strap and ratchet to secure the table extension. When covered with a table cloth you won’t even notice it. Bringing new ideas to your table every day - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing