We’ve been on the road long enough now that it definitely doesn’t feel like vacation anymore and so it is starting to take on a more real life feel. Of course, real life here is different than real life at home, and that has me thinking about what I miss and what I don’t miss. Honestly, some of the things on this list really surprise me.
What I Don’t Miss
Television: I can’t tell you how much this shocks me. I don’t think of myself as addicted to TV, but I sure do like to unwind at the end of the day with some mindless entertainment, usually things like Project Runway or Bethenny Frankel. Don’t judge. We have had no local channels since we left home and I haven’t missed it at all. More than that, I am really pleased with how much more family time and free time I have at night now that I am not plugged in. Will we be chucking the TV when we get home? That’s crazy talk. I’ll definitely be scheduling a Project Runway marathon when I get home, but I’ll likely be keeping it off much more at night.
Kitchen Accoutrements: I’ve got a very tiny oven, a three burner stove, and a microwave and I haven’t felt shackled by the lack of gear at all. I’m definitely making simpler meals, but everyone is happy and fed without any extra fuss.
Space: The limited space in the camper just hasn’t been an issue for me. In fact, the compact nature of the camper is actually more efficient and useful. I love being able to wash dishes or cook dinner while the kids work on their schoolwork or play just steps away.
Full Calendars: Make no mistake-our days are very full, but we are calling the shots. The one thing I dread more than anything about going home is becoming enslaved once again to kid activities that steal my quiet evenings and family time.
What I Do Miss:
Doors that actually contain sound: The space isn’t an issue, but the noise often is. Regular kid noise times four starts to wear on your nerves even if you are the most sainted, patient parent-which I am not. There is just no escaping the noise, and sometimes you get desperate enough to sit out in the cold rain just because it’s quiet out there. The next time your kids’ noise is driving you crazy, go in your room, close the door, and imagine my desperate huddled body sitting in the rain. Then, go over and kiss your door and be grateful for the small things.
My vacuum cleaner: I like a clean floor. I like to walk around barefoot on a clean floor. I haven’t had a really clean floor since about day two of this trip. I have a little vacuum, but it is puny and I would probably have better luck picking up the grunge piece by piece. My feet are rebelling from having to wear shoes all the time. It’s an unfair prison.
Long, hot baths: Don’t get me wrong, I love my camper shower. I love it even more since we spent last week using a bathhouse that was questionable at best. I am grateful for that shower, but I miss a long, hot bath. When you come in from the rain, you need a long, hot bath. I’ve got a bath countdown going on in my head. The first thing I am going to do when I get home is walk barefoot into my bath, close my soundproof door, and likely wish I was back in my camper to do it all again.
Glad to know you're not feeling too put out by life on the road. I was going to offer my sympathies for the lack of a television until you mentioned that you usually spent your time watching Project Runway. Now I understand how you're managing without it.
Thanks for finding lots of Wi-Fi and keeping us updated though. Loving the updates.
I was thinking of you as I met up with some long-term travelers last weekend. You would have enjoyed the group.