December 9, 2009

Staying Warm In The Rolling Mansion

It's been pretty cold already this winter. In typical Texas fashion, it'll be cold for around 24 to 48 hours and then warm up into the low 50's or something. The Rolling Mansion does present some unique challenges in regards to staying warm. First, they aren't known for being well insulated. Second, lots of windows create lots of drafts. Third, they sit above the ground for the cold air to be totally encompassing.

The heat uses propane and does a marvelous job, if you are standing on the floor vents. I love floor vents, by the way. They are reminiscent of my early childhood, living in the trailer. I should probably get back to The Story of Me sometime in the near future. Are y'all interested in that? Our propane bottles are not super big. It isn't like we have a big tank with the Rolling Mansion. We attempt to conserve the propane as much as we can. We bought a little electric heater that works really well in 1/2 of the RV. We can either use it heat the master suite (Bedroom and bathroom) or we can use to heat the living/kitchen/dining area.

But, we can't run the coffee pot at the same time as the electric heater. To make coffee and therefore provide the dual benefits of warmth and caffeine, we have to turn off the electric heater. I guess that heater just sucks too much juice.

This is along the lines of my previous and rather inconvenient discovery that one can't run the microwave and the air conditioner at the same time. It isn't the end of the world, but it is something that one has to remember.

The heater and coffee maker thing is obviously worse. It must be done without benefit of coffee.


i

December 6, 2009

Homestead Heritage

Not far from where we live, there is a place called Homestead Heritage. It is an interesting place; a religious community in which many of the members work on the Homestead Heritage compound. There is a restaurant that makes the most fabulous Jalapeno Sweet Potato soup. OMGosh, it is SO good. Oh, and Apple Nut Sourdough bread. OH, and the best mozzarella I have ever eaten. Ever.

There is a pottery house that has the most beautiful glazes and lovely items. It just draws you in.

There is a grist mill.


There is a center for fiber crafts

Dana, this picture is for you.


It is a beautiful place to walk around with the camera. It is a beautiful place to go spend some time. The people are nice. The surroundings are serene and scenic. If you are close, I recommend a visit.



Visit, but please don't stay. There is quite a bit of evidence that it is a cult. I don't need that on my conscience.

December 5, 2009

Yummy

I would SO drive one of these!



Aren't they cute?


You can register for the drawing* here. I did.




* This is not a paid advertisement. I just think these little buggers are cute.

December 1, 2009

Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving

Practically my whole family (I missed KB and The Girl) went to the cabin this last weekend. I was very glad to spend time with my family. Trevor, Grandma, Grandmother, Uncle David, Uncle Leonard, Aunt Linda, Mom, Dad, Harriette and Daisy. Even this picture taking adventure was fun! Even Grandmother waking up at 4am was tolerable. Good times were had by all - especially me.

November 23, 2009

Daisy's a Happy Coon Dawg

Daisy loves the ranch. For her, it is like coming home. She was born down the road from here and I swear she knows it. Just take a look at these pictures I snapped from the back of the ATV when KB and I went on a ride.












Really. Could she be any happier? Well, maybe if there was fresh cow patty in this pasture...