Happy birthday to our journey!

First off, please know that the pics might seem quite random and some of the things that I talk about may not have pictures attached...which disappoints me...but, we lost the camera charger for a bit and couldn't take pictures.  Anyway, here we go.

Here we are, in about a week we will have had been on this journey for a year.  When we started, we were hoping to make it for a year and not we have plans for the next 6 months.  We have been traveling around this amazing country for almost 366 days (don't forget the leap year).  It has been quite an amazing journey full of amazing people, places, things, and most of all...memories.  People have thought we were nuts while others talked about wishing they had a chance or the gumption to do the same.  We have been quizzed as to the "why" of the entire thing a million times and we were blessed to share that we do it to be closer as a family and to serve; everything else is a bonus!  We have also been quizzed on the how.  We have been asked whether we have won the lottery or if we were young looking grandparents and these are our grandkids.  The questions have been many and the answers all pointed to the same answers as I just mentioned; to love and to serve.  Also, I have to mention this blog.  We did this for a few family and friends (we thought) and there are nearly 6,000 hits from 39 different countries to date.  We get questions and comments from all over.  We are very thankful that others want to see how God continues to work in our lives and what is even better, is that people keep coming back.  Thank you to all of those who care to love on us by keeping up with us through our blog and through personal emails.  Keep them coming because they are very encouraging.  Okay, so I am not going to camp on the 1 year thing because I don't think you want a recap.  I will just cover what we have been up to since the last traveling post.  If you want to know more on anything specific, please ask and we will be more than happy to share. 

This is our "yard" in Tucson.  Most of the other spots are wide open with no shade.  I just have to say thank you to my kiddos for this spot...

Tucson is cool.  The weather is amazing (although drier than a sock full of static) and although many people think that the landscape is a barren wasteland, I think it is beautiful.  I can't get over how everything that is so dry and brown can bloom some of the most amazing colors that I have ever seen.  The flowers on the cacti are blooming, the bees are flying, and the wind is blowing like mad!  I saw two picnic tables fly through the air last week as I was pelted with flying gravel from a "dirt devil" as I tuck and covered.  I didn't like it and neither did the two people who were on my roof as they fixed my air conditioner.  It was an instant mess but it reminded me of the power of the environment and I was thankful that we had no bruises and no dents.  Besides wondering about the wind, there is so much to do here.  We have had people visit from Canada, we have seen and learned so much history, and we have served in ways that were true answers to prayer.  We have met so many great people...lets camp out there for a few minutes.

Hanging out with our friends from Victoria BC.  They winter in Mesa and we had the chance to go up and see them twice while they were here.  Al and Wendy are our beautiful friends and our kids Canadian grandparents. 

Mrs. Wendy helping the kids paint watercolors.

Al and his girl.

Of course, Mrs. Wendy always has a shin dig fit for a king and queen. 

Just like ol' times.

The girls...

Found a lookout on a neighbors house in Mesa. 

Beautiful sunsets...

Silly shot...!

Taking a little stroll.

Anyone for a night game of pickelball?

We came back to Tucson and the kids wanted to paint and have some citrus. 

We wondered what it would be like when we got here.  We knew we were going to sit for a while so I could get care from the VA.  We also knew that there were people that were twice our age and came here to escape cold weather and some of them don't like kids.  Well, I have to say that we have many people that are amazing whether we knew them for a week or if we are still seeing them every day and they loved our kids.  The Lord has put so many great people in our lives and we are thankful.  Let's talk church...we were invited to a Bible study in housing on base and we have been there every week since.  We were welcomed and loved on like were always one of them.  We know that the Lord is at work because everyone of these people fall into one of two categories that have been "off limits" to us before...military pilots and Cubs fans.  Oh, let me assure you that the Lord is doing marvelous things when we ask a Cubs fan who is a pilot to sit in our pew at church!  All joking aside, we have met some people here that welcomed us in their group and we couldn't be more thankful for them.  Recently, we all celebrated Passover with the Passover Seder.  We were all new to it but it was an experience that brought the Bible to a new understanding.  This is just one of the experiences that we have had together. We meet each week in someone's home for a meal and fellowship, and then we have a Bible study while the kids are watched at another home.  My point is this, we prayed that we would find a way to serve, love and be loved while we sat here in Tucson and we didn't know what to expect.  When were at White Sands Missile Range just before we got here, a couple told us that the church on base was great and that it was not a "typical" base chapel; they were so right!  We were led to a group of people to be involved with and a huge need at church. We instantly volunteered to teach Sunday School for grades 2-5 and we have loved every minute!  I know I have gone on about the church and those involved, but this is one of the things that we miss; the church community and the Family while we travel and move so often.  The Lord has provided that community here and we are so thankful.  We have a family that moved into the RV park that we spend time with near daily; we met them at church and they are a true blessing.  He's a pilot (yes, I still love him even after that ;)  ) and they have 4 kiddos similar in age to ours.  They play for hours building forts, fighting with sticks (that doesn't last long until one of the adults stop it) and otherwise hang out.  Zachary and their daughter (along with her brother ;)   ) make trips to the Youth Center to hang out and spend a good amount of time together.  The adults also spend a great deal of time together talking about our frustrations of RV schooling and parenting but how blessed we all are (and frustrated at times, did I mention that?).  We are missing them right now as they are in Italy for a month but we are so thankful for them.  Also, since we have been here we have had the chance to do a tour of an EC-130 with a friend from Kamryn's dance class.  We have also had the chance to do an A-10 simulator and that was a blast!  I still think that is the best plane that we have ever created!  We also went shooting with a friend and shot about everything known to man.  My point is that we have met some great people and are doing amazing things.

Caleb and the .22

Learning and practicing...they loved it!

Zachary really liked the big boy toys!  He did a great job!

Yes, Caleb loved it as much as I did. 

They shot everything on the table that day.  Pistols to semi-autos...everything from .22's to .40's and everything in between...

...including a bow.

The setup that our friend put together so the group could learn and experience a Passover meal.

All of the girls covered their heads for the meal.

The kids had their photo taken as were put on the base's Facebook page because they have all done so much work building forts and being kids.  (Kamryn was napping when they took the picture :)   )

Kamryn and Maddie having some girl time. 

All of the kids are playing baseball.  This is the major thing that brought us to Tucson.  We had a few checkboxes to fill for Zachary to play ball in "some" city.  1) Be consider "residents" and allow Zachary to play city ball 2) Have something for Caleb and Kamryn to do/be involved with 3) Not pay a buzillion dollars a night to RV like other snowbirds who escape to the West when it snows/rains elsewhere and 4) allow me to get some continuity of healthcare.  Well, this fit the bill and the kids are doing marvelous things. 

There they are.  Amazing kiddos in a great sport. 

Yes, this what cool dads do.  This is what happens when you say to your daughter, "What do you want to do while mommy and Zachary are gone?"  And for all of those who have missed it, Kamryn (and Caleb obviously) is not fully clothed!

Starting with Kamryn...she has a number of friends that we have met and gets to play/see them a few times a week.  She still loves dog walking but that has slowed down as 90% of people have left before it gets hot.  She is also in dance now.  We go to dance two times a week and she loves it!  She does so well and we have noticed something new...she is a HUGE helper.  Not only does she love helping the dance instructor but she loves to help the younger "students" that need help.  It is so great to see her and to be able to feed her passions.  We have also started her kindergarten curriculum (at her request) and she is doing an amazing job.  She is also loving crafts and especially making cards for the people we know and giving them as a surprise.  Now, on to Caleb.

Kamryn loves to watch baseball.  This is the first year that we as parents can actually watch because our kids are old enough to do the same. 

Hanging out in our "yard".

Kamryn has taken a great interest in her hair.  We find her up here often "braiding" her hair. 

The most beautiful baseball player I have ever seen...and she's good! 

Caleb is doing marvelous also.  He is following in the footsteps of his brothers and is quickly becoming an all-star athlete.  Along with that, we also see him being such a huge helper and encourager on the field and off.  Not only does he practice likes he wants to play, but he helps the coaches when needed and is always the encourager that everyone that he has met knows him to be.  When the other kids are mentioning that someone has the 8th strike, Caleb is telling them how great they are doing at swinging the bat and trying.  He is also doing great things at home, with school, and around the RV park.  He is always offering to help EVERYONE and finds himself involved with a new adventure daily.  Even though there's nothing around but cacti, he continues to fulfill his love of the earth, plants and bugs.  He also has a new love of all things mechanical and robots.  He has been working on and gathering parts now for a few weeks and just tinkers with stuff.  He learning as he goes and figures out so much on his own.  He also has the gift of gab and when he hasn't returned after a few minutes from somewhere in the RV park, he is usually found talking with neighbor, new and old, and carrying conversations about anything and everything.  We are very proud of him.  I could go on and on but will stop there.

Like his brother, Caleb loves catching.

In action.

 

He wanted to recycle a paper towel tube and came up with this.  Yes, it flew.

Loving his new solar robot kit. 

We had some work done recently and Caleb was right in there either helping or learning (but he asked first of course). 

After the awning was fixed, Caleb asked for the broken parts and immediately got to work. 

Got it apart and learned a few things about gear ratios, brushes, and motors.  He told us that he thought this one needed torque and not speed and that it was probably at about a 50:1 ratio. 

Zachary is a leader; a great leader.  Yes, we have found that living in an RV brings out the "best" in a 12 year old sometimes and yes, we have found that his leadership goes "awry".  But it gives great teaching opportunities that would be lost if we were in mainstream America.  *****CAVEAT...I am not dogging mainstream America and hope no one hates me right now for saying that...just mentioning that the Lord has given us this opportunity to live this lifestyle and that right now, we are able to see and INSTANTLY deal with necessary changes...together.*****  He is leading on his baseball team in numerous ways.  We are seeing him lifting others up and also dealing with "situations" with other young men when necessary.  He is a starting pitcher (and doing amazing things.  He pitched the whole game a few nights ago and they won by "mercy rule") and also mainly playing shortstop and sometimes second base.  We practice for a bit every day and the improvements are amazing to see.  The Lord has blessed him with so many talents from leadership to athletics.  We are working on melding those two and using them to be an example for others.  He is also coaching Caleb's baseball team and was presented with a coaches hat and t-shirt recently which made him very happy.  He is also helping out babysitting and really loves the young babies during our Bible study.   He is also involved with the Youth Center, 4-H, Torch Club (a leadership group) and so much more.  He has been recommended for the Presidential Volunteer Award and we will be continuing to work towards completion of that.  Not only has he dealt with some "issues" with some kids on his own, but he has taken the opportunity to step up and deal with sticking up for the underdog a few times.  We have also asked what he wants to do later in life and he has shared that.  One of the things that he possibly wants to do is be a chef.  So, he gets the opportunity to help out cooking.  This trip has done great things for him and he continues to show his talents.  Again, I could go on and on about the kiddos but will spare you any more stories. 

 

The team. 

Happy to be back on the field. 

He is on the base often and a good example at all times. 

His favorite place on the field. 

Second favorite place on the field.

The future chef (whether at home or elsewhere) with daddy making sushi.

Outside of being involved at church, we stay very busy.  Overlapping baseball practice/games on and off base, spending time with great people, and living life as the "normal" Clon Clan does, we are fulfilling our time with great things.  We seem to be to be in the "right place at the right time" many times and the Lord continues to show us opportunities to serve.  Also, I have numerous appointments at the VA (did I say many?).  The first appointment I had, I left with 7 consults and then a few stemmed from those.  I have found out a number of things that have been going on causing a few other issues; one of those being a broken screw in my neck.  Along with that, I continue to have the "normal" issues with my back, neck, and the stimulator.  I have surgery scheduled for July but we aren't sure if we are going to do that or not.  There is a ton of stuff going on here and we are having an amazing experience with the Tucson VA.  No matter what anyone else says, this is a huge blessing and the Lord's hands are all over it!  It's not all about the VA of course.  The Lord has put some pretty amazing men in my life also; I have a group of guys that are great.  We are able to trust and chat at any time and our senses of humor (yes, I have one!) meld well.  I have many opportunities to be involved in an array of places and love it. 

David Lee will be here in a couple of weeks to stay with us for a week.  We will enjoy the time with him and stay a little busier than we are now.  We look forward to him being here and celebrating our 1 year mark.  When we started this trip, he was our first camping stop in Smyrna, Tennessee.  I am sure there will be much to share after he is gone in another update. 

Needless to say, we have never been so busy with nothing to do.  We stay busy and we do it as a family.  You see one of us...you see all of us whether we are serving or walking through the RV park.   Our family and the individuals in it have grown immensely and we see great Impact on this journey.  We started this journey with a one year plan and we have now moved from that to at least another 6 months.  We continue to pray for opportunities to serve and Love on others and are still excited to see what that means.  We are also praying about some other opportunities to write another chapter for the Clon Clan.  I propose this question for you to ponder if you know us...wouldn't living/sailing on a sailboat instead of living in an RV add quite an additional adventure to all of this...

...until next time. 

What does a family buy to full time RV you ask?

Very good question, thank you for asking.   I will tell you that this was one of the more difficult posts because I had to learn how to do links and web pictures.  So, I apologize that this is not the prettiest post that we have had but I hope it meets it's objective.  I tried to make clickable links but for some reason, I wasn't able to.  Sorry...I figured the links could just be cut and pasted or once you are in Amazon with one of these links, I have tried to provide as much info as I could so you search. I will learn more by the next time.  :)

Really, we have had some folks ask us what we bought to get started and things that we have found that have become everyday items versus space takers.  Keep in mind that we live in about 225 sq ft and our storage space is quite minimal inside the RV.  Outside the RV is actually less than a normal fifth wheel because we have bunks over the hitch and most fifth wheels have the master bedroom and bathroom over the hitch .  With our bunks over the hitch and our master bedroom and the bathroom in the rear of the RV, we do not have pass through storage as most of the fifth wheels our size.  I don't tell you all of this because I am bored; I tell you this because we have much less space for "stuff"!  So, this leads to the things that we have found to be quite helpful and maybe even a few things that we have found to be a nuisance or just plain pieces of junk. 

I was wondering the best way to approach this and figured that since we bought most of items from Amazon, I would include those links in this post.  I hope this proves beneficial and not difficult for me to display and explain and also for you to read and understand.  Also, they have a marvelous return process and policy so if we steer you wrong, then you can send it back.  :)


Since we have been asked what we have bought, we wondered if we would be able to let others know and also gain a bit of kickback while doing so.  So, we found out that if you (the reader) purchase the items through the links that I have listed, we received a small percentage back.  It doesn't change your price at all or have any affect on your order in any way!  The other neat thing is that if you enter Amazon through any of these links and then buy ANY items (even if it is not the ones that we have listed.  You could enter the link that I have provided for the truck key and buy a bag of rocks and we would still be recognized) we still get a small bit back without affecting your price.  In other words, if every time you want to purchase something through Amazon, if you enter through one of these links or send one of these links to your friends and let them purchase through them (again, they don't have to buy what the link directs them through), it will help us to continue to do what we do.  There is an overall link that will do the same thing. 
It is      http://www.amazon.com/?tag=theclclca-20


If not, no worries!  We still love ya!



Here we go...


One of the things that we found to be invaluable was Amazon Prime.  There is even an Amazon Prime 30 day free trial that let's you try it.  Whatever the case, this has really helped out in allowing us to get our orders very quickly wherever we are and also gives you access to more movies, music, and books for free.  (If you want to purchase the Prime or try the Free Trial, enter through one of the links and then purchase or sign up for free.)

"For the home"

In this section we will show a few of the items that we have purchased for use beginning with the kitchen.  These are all daily use items...almost always numerous times a day.  Again, we had to consider durability and storage space needed for these items when purchasing.  We don't have much space and things bounce around when we travel.  We also had to consider power usage so we weren't flipping breaker all the time when using electric items. 

The Instant Pot is one of our best purchases.  This thing does it all and we love it.  We use it to slow cooks, steams, pressure cooks, sautes, cooks rice, make yogurt, and so much more.  This kitchen item has replaced a few other kitchen appliances and works great!



http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SE4SRD6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00SE4SRD6&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=NLNI3RUMX4EFHNEA</iframe>

 The second of our best purchases (not necessarily in order) is our Berkey.  We never really know what kind of water we are getting at any given camping place, especially if is coming from well water.  So to always have the best and consistent water, we purchased this.  We also purchased the filters that remove the fluoride from city water and arsenic from other water sources like wells.  We have increased our water usage since buying this and also have gotten away from disposable water bottles.  You can put pond water in this thing and drink it!  We love it!  One other thing is our dog, Leo.  We have found and found through research, that some dogs can be affected by witching their waters continuously from different sources. This way he gets the same purified water every time.  Be sure to purchase glass spigot or you will be looking inside all the time to see how much water is in it all the time.   

Berkey water system (shown with arsenic/fluoride removing filters)


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BWIX1EQ/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BWIX1EQ&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=3F27AZDNTGOQ2Q3S 

Berkey fluoride/Arsenic filters (by themselves)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BWIWYBW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BWIWYBW&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=SP22ZHONMF6ADZDK

Glass spigot for Berkey



http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BWIX0NS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00BWIX0NS&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=A3QLZVGDIRRGFWTX

Next, we wanted to purchase a coffee machine like a Kuerig but we don't have the space.  We decided against a drip coffee pot for the same reason so we bought a French press.  We actually have liked it much more and we drink less coffee in the mornings because it make a fresher pot of coffee and is a bit stronger that a drip pot. 

French coffee press


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DUHACEE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00DUHACEE&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=QXKWFYMGKSVYCWE4


The Single Burner is also a must.  We don't use propane hardly at all becuase electricity is "free" when we pay for a spot.  We only use propane when we are boondocking.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0082JMCB6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0082JMCB6&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=T3JHPDSZXFZJNOR5

 Our pizza stone   is multi use.  It serves as a heat "dissipator" in the oven when we place it on top  heating element that normally burns everything on the bottom.  This spreads the heat and cuts down on the burnage.  We can now cook two pizzas in a 15 in oven to perfection!  It also acts as a cutting board and even acts as a serving platter on occasion.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JIGM5O/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B006JIGM5O&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=OW3ZBGUE2CNNEHU6

 Our Ninja is another staple.  We use this to grind our wheat berries into flour, popcorn to corn meal/corn flour.  We also do soups and smoothies in different parts of it.  This thing is great!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A3D5IZ6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00A3D5IZ6&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=YZPASYXYMOOP7CPH

We have an electric skillet stainless steel that was given to us as we left by our Aunt and we LOVE it!  We love the stainless also because we got away from Teflon a while back and love cooking on it.  Again, we have learned to make just about everything in this and the Instantpot because we try to use as much electricity as possible instead of propane.  


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00453H8TE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00453H8TE&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=QJS5ZEIAQFB5XJ3Q

Our Electric kettle  is what we use to warn up our water for the french press.  It is quick and 
is multi use.  We use it for noodles and milk sometimes also. 

 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IWOJS9A/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00IWOJS9A&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=7AET76JQQJHXP3XK

I know that I have placed the Walkie Talkies rather randomly but it is because they sit in our kitchen.  We use these obviously for hikes and when the kids go off for a bit by themselves.  These have worked great for us also for traveling in two vehicles and have great battery life, sound great and are small.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001UE6MIO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B001UE6MIO&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=TO37TVFNVPLRWKYT

 We bought a few Amazon Kindles before we left for school.  They have proved to be great investments to allow the kids to do school in the vehicle, read books on, or chill with a movie every once in a while. We did but the extended coverage as we live in the woods!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C5W16B8/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00C5W16B8&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=KU2UNLHQMAHPNFQD

 Along with the Kindles, we use the Kindle Audio books and Amazon Video somewhat often.  This of course depends on wi-fi availability but overall, the Kindles and it's available resources have worked well for us.  

We bought the Shark Vacuum because of it's size and power.  We read many reviews and we settled on it.  We like it because it is small but wish that it had some sort of flexible hose.  It also has to be cleaned out often, like the rest of the Shark line, but works well for our purposes. for the time being but we pretty sure that we wouldn't buy this item again.   

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EUKHACW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EUKHACW&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=G26JFDYQ7ZWEZ6Z7

We use an X Chock single to stop the RV from moving.  We also use a single yellow chock but the X Chock seems to do a good job of stopping rocking also.  We like it and are considering a second one.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001V8PRAS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B001V8PRAS&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=A2NAPCPKUNRB5QPP

 For emergency purposes, we bought Eternabond roof repair.  This is self adhesive and very strong.  We opted for the wider to do a better job of patching a hole, especially if we were boondocking and something happened in the woods. 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005GOM2I8/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005GOM2I8&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=T2DQU52AU5FRIO5V

When we bought the Mobile Washer, we thought it would be a good investment.  I have to add this to one of our best purchases of all.  LAundry in some places are as much as $5 per load to wash and the same to dry!  WE bought a few five gallon buckets for about $2 and we do small amounts of laundry and hang it out to dry.  Some RV parks won't let youhang it out but then we only do essentials and hang them inside.  This has also been used as a discipline tool.  NO!  Not by swinging it against someone!  To send a child out and have them do laundry serves a few purposes.  It gives them time alone, it's a workout, and our laundry gets done!  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002QUAPSO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002QUAPSO&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=255RF32EMA5N43AU

We bought these Vent insulators to cover the vents.  Great amounts of light, heat or cold is blocked by these and works very well.  


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0024E6QX0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0024E6QX0&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=YDDVT4DT44Z45R4J

The Over the door organizer has served a few purposes.  WE use one on the bathroom door for massive storage space.  We also took on and cut it in rows, inserted eyelets on it. Rebent some showing curtain hooks. and hung it around the end of the bed for shoes.  This has worked great and has held up well.  



http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002V9194Y/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002V9194Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=6MBJLIA4GILZLZXJ

 We wondered what we would do about the cheap RV mattress and how it would work for my back.  We bought a Mattress Topper and it has done pretty good on top of the RV mattress.  We are still evaluating the next step but have to closely consider weight, size and other things.  This has worked well.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0099X7264/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0099X7264&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=LGU66IN6VM3UJWUP

For doing a bit of a workout we bought a 15  or 20lb kettlebell and  5lb dumbbells.  We also bought a Jump rope.  These have served a purpose when a gym is not near and we are trying to burn some extra s'mores calories.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0062ORZSS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0062ORZSS&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=ZNY4LOFVP7YMIQ2E

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013UVRRHE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B013UVRRHE&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=W7IIYDEUAGC5A3GH

 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LGXE5NS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00LGXE5NS&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=MMGCYKKVKWJQJNO6

We bought a Kingsford charcoal kaddy to use as a trash can.  Ours is black but serves the same purpose as the one in the link below.  The nice thing is that our puppy can't get in it because the lid locks shut.  Also, when we are traveling and it falls over with trash in it, the locked lid keeps it all secure and clean!  It takes a regular 13 gallon trash bag and is very easy to clean.   


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000OSCHOU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000OSCHOU&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=YBATXH5RXGSVNMO2

A few outside items... 

We bought this Buffer to keep our RV looking nice and also providing UV protection from the sun.  It is easy to use by Kelly and Zachary and stores nicely.  It even comes with different bonnets included!

 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007C6JDI0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007C6JDI0&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=2TO4OY37RJO5K33I

We have never used aero 303 so we thoguht we would give it a try while in Tucson.  IT went on easily and buffed off well also.  We did have some streaking that had to be gone over again but the bottle says that is because we applied too much.  Anyway, we also used it on the tires and everything looks great.  Because of the need to reapply in 4-6 weeks, I think we will use this for the tires, rubber, and maybe roof but use a different product for the rest of the RV.  



http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KN0UOEE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00KN0UOEE&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=IP42U5FUN6ZTIDNI


Next time we will use this on the RV .  WE just used it on the truck and it worked great.


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BPSW7C/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000BPSW7C&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=UUJ5SINR43UXCCOZ

 With cooking outside so much, we had to get an Outdoor table.  Someone that we met (Go Jacksons!) when we first started this journey had these and they were great!  We bought one and use it near daily for different reasons.  It folds up and stores well and is light enough to be moved but heavy enough to stay put in heavy winds.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003YJPC2A/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003YJPC2A&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=HHKFJNKTMBOP5RTG

With having so many possibilities of electricity problems, we purchased this Voltage tester to have on board.  IT is easy to use and stores well and had a great price point.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017HAY7UO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B017HAY7UO&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=N2KO4SSSBUPQF5J7

Foods online...

We have done some great things with Dried Wheat Berries.  Like I said before, we grind our own flours and also eat these as sides for dinner.  We even eat them for breakfast sometimes.  It is all in how you spice them!  We have also sprouted them to make our own wheat grass which was amazing!  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0161N5KA4/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0161N5KA4&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=BBJYF4S5ITKS524Y

We go through many Garbanzo Beans because we eat them for snacks, use them in hummus, use them in soups/chilis, and use them as sides or meat replacements.  These have worked well for us and also sprout easily.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004M0J2GW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004M0J2GW&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=23WYQZ5XSAE7WOPJ

Other things for the home...

When we are boondocking, we need a nighlight.  Problem is that we have to be more power concious.  We bought these LED Night Light Bulbs to use in our night lights and use them in the 12 converter.  They work very well and are very bright for our needs.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CRHG63Y/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00CRHG63Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=MBDZPXFZMT775GEY

 One of the first things that we did was replace all of our incadescent lights with LED lights.  The power draw is about one-third as much and they give off great light.  We had 27 individual lights to replace and these cost about $6-$12 each in some places.  We foudn these and jumped right on them.  They work great and we have not had any problems with them.  We bought the 12v -24v instead of just the 12v lights.  There have been some problems with the 12v lights.  

 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EKN8FXC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00EKN8FXC&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=BZ4OYKMNQNPZNJYM

We also have a few 1156 lights.  These are the same as your standard taillight on your vehicle.  We have a few lights inside that take there also, as many RVs do.  These have worked well but I bought the wrong color and wished that I would have gone with more of a pure white vs the cool white...it looks blue to me and I don't like it.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LEBLI82/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00LEBLI82&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=4OJU2NENGVQUWRKL

Buying some sort of dehumidifier is a must.  I did much searching on these and decided on this one.  It has done great for us but we might need another one this year.  This bad boy soaks up some water from the air and is silent!  We were in Virginia in August and it was hot and humid.  This drank water from the air and is still working.  Very pleased with it.  


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KWKONAG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00KWKONAG&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=YT4FTM36K4Q7AASR

One other thing that we bought for the outside is a surge protector.  This is a necessity and will protect an RV from many different problems.  One of the nice things is that it will let you know if the electrical box that you are about to plug into is operating correctly or not.  It also has tripped when it needed to when someone was working on the RV and crossed some wires. Very please with this; this has saved us a few times.   

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002OUZK7W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002OUZK7W&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=KWAHTCAQ5U4GHN3K

Toys, Toys, Toys!

Not really, we have only bought a few toys since being our and that was for Christmas.  

Calebs Circuit set was a great buy!  He loves this thing and even helped me understand things a bit more!  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008BFZH/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00008BFZH&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=PRR7XAERDEUKQXEC

Kamryn's princess mosaics were a hit also.  There are stickers to put onto butterflies and princesses and she loved doing them.  Caleb also has some dragon mosaic of the same but they were dragons.  Very nice projects for them at a good price.  They are still hanging all over.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042TQPQ8/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0042TQPQ8&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=V5SWEDPNL33SJGNO


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001BWY5C0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B001BWY5C0&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=ZSIZ6EDQHWLBYGMJ

Favorite books...

These are Zachary's National Parks books.  He really enjoyed these and we did also.  They are fictional mystery books set in the National Parks.  It is neat to recongize some of the places that the books mention.  

 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1426300921/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1426300921&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=SRDLET2EFZX5TT57

The Kingdom quest books are good Bible Study/devotionals for the kids and are written for different ages.  They keep the kid's attention and are to the point/short devotionals.  


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1589978072/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1589978072&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=7OGJMFHA23YZPZFB

The Preparing for adolescence workbook and book are a marvelous tool to use as a guide for Zachary and I to talk about the changes that boys go through at his age.  A friend at YWAM Virginia recommended this and it is great.  


http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800726545/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0800726545&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=ZXHBJ2HWH22RFQ3K

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0800726286/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0800726286&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=G5KEB6QT6DU7GTO3

One of my favorite books that Kelly is reading right now is Raising a modern day night.  This book helps parent's raise their children in way that teaches boys to be gentleman and learn the ways of the knights-chivalry and respect among other things.  Teaching our children to be gentleman is a great priority in our home and always has been and this book seconds that and has some great points!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1589973097/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1589973097&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=MQDXN5DGCRB7H6SO

Odd ball items...

So we lost our set of keys and had to buy a GMC Truck key.  It worked great and I got the instructions and programmed it very simply.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KTHU9MI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00KTHU9MI&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=JLY62PSMB2KSWJ2X

 We decided early on to go gas instead of diesel.  We also agreed that we would spend a little to gain some horsepower and torque  and one of those items was a Programmer for the truck.  It added great gains and we are very happy with it.  

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HZ870GM/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00HZ870GM&linkCode=as2&tag=thclclca-20&linkId=6HS7675CI64PYHIW</iframe>

So, that's obviously not all that we have purchased but I would really like to try and figure out how to do this a better way than the choppy way that I have done it above.  

We are doing well and will be doing a "normal" update soon.  We have great things to share and Great situations that we have experienced.  

Sorry if I bored you with a shopping trip on this one...especially the guys!