My name is Jan - my husband is Ken. We just started living fulltime in our Airstream. We are both longtime RVers......I have been indoctrinated since the early 60s (my parents started in an 18'
Caravel and eventually graduated to a 31'); my parents inheritance to us was their last 31'; that was totaled by a drunk driver - now we have the 34' Excella that we are living in.
I've always wanted to live in the Airstream - and, economy being as it is, finally convinced my husband that one location and upkeep was more than enough (we own a business in Springfield, MO.) - so - we are shedding the 'stick and brick' house and are living in the AS at our business.
It's been six interesting weeks. We've had some really interesting weather (cold) and have been making various adjustments - but they're all good. Our family includes a variety of four footed 'kiddzz' too - and they're quite happy. We have done a lot of cold weather camping - but fulltiming is different. The weather has given us a run for our money -
- Our electric at our new location is woefully inadequate.......next on the agenda is running full service (30 amp) to our site - for two RVs - and that's not an inexpensive proposition. At present we are making do for a week or two until that endeavor is complete. We heat with propane and supplement with electric oil heat. We're using a lot of propane right now - but - because the water heater element stresses the inadequate grid - almost everything is propane. Today comes the 100# bottle; and four 40s; we try to stay on top of the propane situation. I meter the electric - oil heaters are used on low.
- I'm doing some creative insulating - from the inside. Our coach has the rear twins. I removed the spline from the windows and put in foam insulation.......remarkable difference. Next, I'm removing the beds and platforms and insulating underneath from the top. I'm running pressed foam insulation up the walls to underneath the windows and covering it with a yet to be discovered material.....and new seal on the door - and replacing the screen on the screen door with plexiglass.
- The cabinet under the fridge =) - super wine cellar this time of year!!
- As for the pups - Each has his/her own crate. I lowered the dinette, covered it, and installed their crates in that area. They now have a clear observation point, love their crates, and are manageable in close quarters. What they do most is run, sleep, and eat. They now have a HUGE yard to run, can truly be watchdogs, and prefer sleeping in their own 'beds' so that problem is solved.
So far, it's been quite interesting - but I was prepared for that. I like my husband not having to drive to work (just walks across the fenced parking lot). I like my new surroundings - and I LOVE less housework. He likes the reduction in bills. Feels like home to me.
Oh yes, Mom and Dad's first AS was when I was around 8 - so I kind of grew up with these things. We traveled all over the country together - so did my kids. My husband is a 'motorhome convert'.......we can't all start out the right way.......
Jan Karnis