Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Q&A: RV Life, Crafting, and Everything In Between

 

❓ Q&A: RV Life, Crafting, and Everything In Between



One of my favorite things about blogging is chatting with all of you. I get questions all the time about RV life, crafting in a small space, how we stay organized, and what day-to-day life actually looks like living in Wildebeest full time.

Since my inbox has been a little quiet lately, I figured I’d answer some of the most common questions I usually get asked!

So grab a coffee, settle in, and welcome to our little RV life Q&A session.


๐Ÿš What’s the hardest part about living in an RV full time?

Space. Absolutely space.

You really learn quickly what you actually use versus what just sits around collecting dust. Every item in the RV has to earn its spot.

The hardest part for me specifically is managing craft supplies. I love crafting, but glitter explosions and overflowing bins are not exactly ideal in a small rolling home.

That said, I’ve gotten really good at keeping only supplies I truly use regularly.


๐ŸŽจ How do you craft in such a tiny space?

Very carefully. ๐Ÿ˜‚

Our table usually turns into my crafting zone. I use stackable plastic storage bins to organize supplies because they’re sturdy, easy to clean, and don’t flop over while we’re driving.

I also lean toward projects that don’t require giant machines or massive setups. Cricut projects, paper crafts, small seasonal decor, stickers, and simple DIYs work really well in RV life.

The biggest trick is cleaning as you go. Tiny messes become giant messes fast in a small space.


๐Ÿ“ How do you choose where to travel next?

A mix of workamping opportunities, interesting small towns, weird roadside attractions, and honestly… vibes.

Sometimes we’ll discover a quirky museum or strange local legend and suddenly that becomes our next stop. Other times we plan around campground jobs or weather.

I handle navigation and trip planning because I’m basically the GPS queen of the operation.


๐Ÿ“š What do you do during bad weather days?

Rainy days usually turn into cozy indoor days.

I’ll read, work on blog content, craft, organize supplies, or binge-watch something while listening to the rain on the roof. Chris usually games, edits videos, or works on writing and coding projects.

Honestly, stormy RV days can feel weirdly peaceful.

As long as the wind isn’t trying to launch us into another zip code.


☕ What’s your morning routine in the RV?

I am not one of those “wake up at 5 AM and do yoga in the sunrise” people.

Usually mornings start with coffee, checking social media messages, figuring out what needs done for the day, and trying to convince myself to fully wake up.

If we’re having a few travel days, everything becomes organized chaos pretty quickly. If we’re stationary somewhere, mornings are slower and calmer.


๐Ÿงต What craft supplies do you always keep on hand?

A few essentials never leave Wildebeest:

  • Vinyl
  • Cricut tools
  • Cardstock
  • Pens and markers
  • Glue dots and adhesive tape
  • Seasonal stickers
  • Small paint sets
  • Cutting mats
  • Storage bins (lots of them)

I try to avoid buying giant bulk supplies because storage space disappears fast.


๐Ÿš Do you ever get tired of RV life?

Sometimes.

RV life isn’t always aesthetic sunsets and cozy campfires. Sometimes it’s muddy shoes, campground noise, repair problems, and trying to figure out why something suddenly stopped working.

But I still love the freedom that comes with it.

I love seeing new places, finding hidden gems, and turning our little rolling home into something cozy no matter where we park.


๐Ÿณ Who does the cooking?

Usually Chris!

He’s almost always the driver and the cook, which honestly feels like a pretty good deal for me.

I help with cleanup, snacks, moral support, and occasionally standing nearby saying, “That smells really good.”


๐Ÿ“– What are your favorite ways to relax at the campground?

Reading outside, crafting, photography walks, chatting with campers, and hunting down local coffee shops or little downtown areas.

I also genuinely enjoy decorating the RV seasonally. Tiny spaces become extra cozy with simple decorations.

Even if I have to rearrange three things just to put one pumpkin somewhere.


✨ What’s one thing you wish people understood about RV living?

That full-time RV life still includes regular everyday life.

We still work, clean, grocery shop, pay bills, organize things, and have stressful days. It’s just happening in a moving house instead of a traditional one.

But the tradeoff is waking up in new places, meeting interesting people, and collecting stories everywhere we go.

And honestly? That part makes the chaos worth it.


๐Ÿ’ฌ Got a question you’d like answered in a future Q&A?

Leave it in the comments or send me a message on social media! I’m always happy to chat about RV life, crafting, organization, books, travel days, or life inside Wildebeest.



<3 Amanda|Craftin' Wife

Quick Hair Fixes That Work When You’re Short on Time

 

✨ Quick Hair Fixes That Work When You’re Short on Time



Some mornings are not “full hair routine” mornings.

Maybe you overslept. Maybe the campground water pressure is questionable. Maybe you just don’t feel like dragging out ten products and a hot tool before coffee. We’ve all been there.

The good news? You do not need a full wash day to make your hair look refreshed and put together. These are my favorite quick fixes for busy mornings, travel days, errands, or those “I need to leave in five minutes” moments.


๐Ÿ’จ Dry Shampoo Is Your Best Friend

Dry shampoo can rescue second-day (or third-day… no judgment) hair fast.

Quick Tips:

  • Spray or apply it before bed so it absorbs oil overnight.
  • Focus on the roots, especially around the hairline and crown.
  • Let it sit for a minute before brushing or massaging it in.
  • Use a small amount first — too much can leave buildup.

If your hair still feels flat afterward, flip your head upside down and tousle the roots with your fingers for extra volume.


๐ŸŽ€ The “Looks Intentional” Messy Bun

A messy bun saves the day more often than I’d like to admit.

Easy Version:

  1. Pull hair into a loose ponytail.
  2. Twist it around itself.
  3. Secure with a claw clip or scrunchie.
  4. Tug a few pieces loose around the face.

Done. Effortless. Cute. Nobody needs to know it took 45 seconds.

Bonus: claw clips are way more comfortable for long wear than tight elastics.


✨ Refresh Your Ends Without Washing

Sometimes your roots are fine, but your ends look dry or frizzy.

Try:

  • A tiny drop of lightweight hair oil
  • Leave-in conditioner on the ends only
  • A quick pass with a damp brush
  • Smoothing flyaways with a little hand lotion in a pinch

Just avoid using too much product or things can go greasy fast.


๐ŸŒ™ Overnight Braids = Morning Waves

If you want easy texture with almost zero effort:

  • Slightly dampen your hair before bed
  • Put it into one or two loose braids
  • Sleep on it
  • Undo in the morning and finger-comb

Instant soft waves without heat styling.

This works especially well on travel days when outlets are limited or you don’t want to mess with hot tools.


๐Ÿงข Accessories Save Everything

Listen… some days the hairstyle is simply “cute hat.”

And that’s okay.

A few easy lifesavers:

  • Baseball caps
  • Headbands
  • Bandanas
  • Claw clips
  • Scrunchies
  • Beanies on colder days

Accessories can make even the laziest hair day feel styled on purpose.


๐Ÿ’ก Fast Styling Tricks for Busy Mornings

Need volume fast?

Blow dry only the roots for 30 seconds while flipping your head upside down.

Hair feeling limp?

Change your part. Seriously. It helps more than you’d think.

Frizz taking over?

Run a dryer sheet lightly over flyaways in an emergency.

Ponytail looking boring?

Wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic and pin it underneath.

Tiny changes make a surprisingly big difference.


๐Ÿš Real-Life Hair Routines Don’t Need To Be Perfect

Not every day needs a full salon-level routine.

Sometimes “good enough” hair is exactly what gets you through a busy day — whether you’re heading to work, running errands, crafting at the table, or traveling down the road in the RV.

Quick fixes count. Easy routines count. And honestly? Saving time counts too.

What’s your favorite fast hair trick when you’re in a rush?

Beginner Cricut Projects That Don’t Require Fancy Materials

 

๐Ÿ–จ️ Beginner Cricut Projects That Don’t Require Fancy Materials

Easy crafts using basic supplies you probably already own!



One of the biggest misconceptions about owning a Cricut is thinking you need an entire craft room packed with specialty vinyl, expensive blanks, glitter everything, and enough tools to open your own craft store.

You really don’t.

Some of the best beginner Cricut projects come from simple materials: plain cardstock, basic adhesive vinyl, transfer tape, and random items already sitting around the house. If you’re just getting started — or trying to craft on a budget — these easy projects are perfect for building confidence without turning your wallet inside out.


✂️ Start Simple, Not Stressful

When you first open Design Space, it’s tempting to dive into complicated layered projects immediately. But learning your machine is way easier when you start with:

  • Single-color designs
  • Basic shapes and text
  • Small projects with fewer steps
  • Materials that cut easily

Simple projects also help you learn:

  • Blade pressure
  • Weeding techniques
  • Transfer tape basics
  • Mat placement
  • Sizing designs correctly

And honestly? Some of the cutest crafts are the easiest ones.


๐Ÿท️ 1. Pantry & Storage Labels

One of the easiest beginner Cricut projects is labels.

You can use:

  • Basic permanent vinyl
  • Dollar store containers
  • Plastic bins
  • Glass jars
  • Laundry containers
  • Spice jars

Simple script fonts instantly make everyday storage look organized without needing expensive materials.

Beginner Tip:

Start with larger lettering before attempting tiny detailed fonts. Tiny script can be frustrating when you’re still learning to weed vinyl.


☕ 2. Simple Mug Decals

You don’t need sublimation printers or specialty equipment to personalize mugs.

Use permanent adhesive vinyl on:

  • Coffee mugs
  • Water bottles
  • Tumblers
  • Plastic cups

Try:

  • Names
  • Funny sayings
  • Simple flowers
  • Seasonal quotes

Just remember:
Hand wash only if using regular adhesive vinyl.


๐Ÿ“š 3. Bookmarks from Cardstock

Cardstock projects are underrated beginner crafts.

They’re:

  • Cheap
  • Easy to cut
  • Quick to finish
  • Great for practicing intricate cuts

Simple bookmark ideas:

  • Floral corners
  • Favorite quotes
  • Layered cardstock designs
  • Tassel bookmarks
  • Reading trackers

You can even laminate them later if you want extra durability.


๐ŸŽ 4. Gift Tags & Party Labels

This is one of the best ways to use leftover scraps.

Create:

  • Birthday gift tags
  • Holiday labels
  • Treat bag stickers
  • Mason jar labels
  • Envelope seals

Most of these projects only take a few minutes and use tiny amounts of material.


๐Ÿ–ผ️ 5. Easy Wall Quotes

You don’t need giant decals to decorate a space.

Small wall sayings work perfectly for beginners because they teach:

  • Alignment
  • Transfer tape handling
  • Vinyl positioning

Try simple phrases for:

  • Entryways
  • Bathrooms
  • RV spaces
  • Craft rooms
  • Coffee stations

Smaller decals are also much less intimidating than giant multi-piece wall designs.


๐Ÿ““ 6. Notebook & Planner Covers

Plain notebooks become way more fun with vinyl decals.

Use:

  • Permanent vinyl
  • Cardstock inserts
  • Printable labels

Ideas include:

  • Reading journals
  • Budget binders
  • Recipe notebooks
  • Travel planners
  • Craft project logs

This is also a great way to practice layering basic shapes without wasting expensive materials.


๐Ÿงบ 7. Laundry Room Labels

Functional Cricut projects are the best kind because you’ll actually use them daily.

Label:

  • Spray bottles
  • Detergent containers
  • Storage baskets
  • Cleaning bins

Simple black or white vinyl looks clean and professional without requiring specialty finishes.


๐Ÿ’Œ 8. Handmade Cards

Cricut machines make card-making surprisingly easy.

Even basic cardstock can create:

  • Birthday cards
  • Thank-you notes
  • Holiday cards
  • Encouragement cards

Start with:

  • Simple cut-out designs
  • Single-layer cards
  • Folded cardstock templates

No fancy foils or expensive paper packs required.


✨ Supplies You Actually Need

You can make dozens of beginner projects with:

  • Standard grip mat
  • Fine point blade
  • Basic cardstock
  • Permanent vinyl
  • Transfer tape
  • Scraper tool
  • Weeding tool

That’s it.

No specialty foils.
No giant vinyl collection.
No glitter explosion covering your entire house.


๐Ÿ’ก Final Thoughts

Learning Cricut crafting doesn’t have to mean buying every trendy supply online. Starting with simple materials actually helps you learn faster because you spend less time fighting complicated products and more time understanding your machine.

Basic vinyl and cardstock can go a long way when creativity does the heavy lifting.

And sometimes the best craft projects are the ones that are useful, affordable, and easy enough to finish in one evening without covering the entire table in loose glitter.

What I’m Reading This Month + Why It’s Sticking With Me

 ๐Ÿ“š What I’m Reading This Month + Why It’s Sticking With Me

Alright friends, grab your drink of choice (coffee, iced tea, something sparkling if you’re feeling fancy) because we’re doing a cozy little reading check-in today. No pressure, no “perfect reader” vibes—just what’s been living in my brain rent-free this month.

I’ve been bouncing between a couple books lately, which is very on-brand for me because apparently I believe I can “emotionally multitask” between fictional worlds. Spoiler: I cannot. I just end up thinking about all of them at once while forgetting where I left my bookmark again.


๐Ÿ“– Current Reads

1. The book I keep saying “just one more chapter” about
You know the one. The kind where you tell yourself you’ll read a little before bed and suddenly it’s 1:47 AM and you’re staring at the ceiling like “why did I do this to myself?”

What’s sticking with me:

  • The pacing is dangerously good
  • The characters feel like they’d absolutely judge my life choices (and be right about it)
  • I keep thinking about scenes at random times during the day, which is both a compliment and a mild inconvenience

This is the one I’d recommend if you like stories that quietly grab you by the brain and refuse to let go.


2. The comfort read I keep coming back to
This is my “I need my nervous system to chill out” book. No chaos. No emotional whiplash. Just familiar vibes and the literary equivalent of a soft blanket.

What I love about it:

  • Easy to pick up even when my attention span is questionable (so… most days)
  • Characters feel like old friends you don’t have to explain yourself to
  • It’s just steady. No surprises jumping out at me like “BOO, PLOT TWIST.”

If your brain has been doing too much lately, this is the kind of read that helps you reset without demanding anything from you.


3. The wildcard pick
Every month I somehow end up with at least one book that I wasn’t planning to read but suddenly I’m emotionally invested in it like I signed a contract.

This one is:

  • Slightly unexpected
  • A little messy in the best way
  • The kind of story that makes you pause and go “wait… what just happened?”

Not sure yet if I love it or I’m just intrigued enough to keep going—but honestly, that’s half the fun.


๐Ÿ’ญ What’s sticking with me overall

This month’s reading theme seems to be: stories that linger.

Not necessarily the loud, dramatic ones—but the ones that sit in the background of your thoughts while you’re doing dishes, folding laundry, or staring at the ceiling at night wondering why fictional people feel so real.

I think those are my favorite kinds of reads lately. The ones that don’t just entertain you while you’re reading—but stay with you after you close the book.


๐Ÿ“Œ Worth recommending?
Short answer: yes… but with personality matching required.

  • If you want something gripping → go for the “just one more chapter” type
  • If you need calm → comfort read all the way
  • If you like surprises → wildcard pick is calling your name













๐Ÿ“– Now I’m curious…
What are you reading right now? Anything that’s taken over your thoughts a little too much this month?

Drop it somewhere in the universe (or the comments if this is posted there), because my “to be read” pile clearly needs no encouragement but I’m going to ignore that fact anyway.

๐Ÿ“š Until next time, may your books be good, your bookmarks not disappear into the couch, and your late-night reading decisions be slightly more responsible than mine.

Go-To Products I Pack Every Time We Move (Life in Wildebeest Edition)

 ๐Ÿ’„ Go-To Products I Pack Every Time We Move (Life in Wildebeest Edition)

Wednesday – Beauty | Craftin’ Wife’s Creations



Living full-time in the Wildebeest means there isn’t a “home we come back to and reset from”—this is home. So my beauty routine isn’t built around getting settled again… it’s built around staying functional while everything around me might change parking spots.

What does change is my seasonal rotation. I keep a stash of extra makeup stored at my sister’s in Tennessee, and whenever we’re in that area, I do a swap-out—like a beauty supply refresh stop built into travel life. Everything else has to survive life on the road.

So these are the non-negotiables that stay in Wildebeest full-time.


๐Ÿ’ง Skincare That Travels Light (But Works Hard)

I don’t do complicated skincare routines out here—just what actually keeps my skin happy in constant climate changes.

  • Gentle cleanser
  • Moisturizer (SPF included, always)
  • One serum that earns its place (hydration or glow—no overthinking it)
  • Micellar water for quick resets when sinks are optional depending on setup

If it doesn’t work in humidity, dry air, and “we’re parked who knows where this week,” it doesn’t stay.


๐Ÿ’‹ The Core Lip Rotation

My Tennessee stash is where the “fun extras” live. In Wildebeest, I keep it simple:

  • One everyday tinted balm
  • A few neutral “looks like I tried” lipsticks
  • A couple bold shades for when I feel like being extra on purpose

Everything else rotates through my sister’s storage when we swap stock.


๐Ÿงด Hair Care That Doesn’t Demand Perfect Conditions

RV life haircare is all about flexibility:

  • Foam Curling rods, easy and portable
  • Leave-in conditioner/detangler
  • Heat protectant for the occasional styling mood
  • A pile of hair ties that somehow still vanish into the void

If it requires a salon setup or multiple tools plugged in at once, it’s not a road-life product.


๐Ÿ’… Nails: Low Maintenance, High Function

I do keep a UV nail light in Wildebeest—because pretty gel moments absolutely still happen out here.

My core kit:

  • Nail file
  • Cuticle oil
  • UV light
  • Gel polish when I want something more polished without a salon visit

It’s the perfect balance of “I can maintain this while parked at a campground” and “I still want nice nails.”


๐Ÿชž Tiny Vanity Survival Kit

Space is always a factor, so everything has to earn its spot:

  • Compact mirror
  • Two solid brush sets (no duplicates, no clutter)
  • Makeup bag that actually zips closed
  • Simple remover wipes or balm

If it creates mess faster than I can clean it in a small sink situation, it doesn’t come.


๐Ÿ’„ Everyday Face (5-Minute Wildebeest Version)

This is the routine that happens when we’re either moving, exploring, or I just don’t feel like overcomplicating things:

  • Tinted moisturizer or BB cream
  • Neutral eyeshadow
  • Mascara
  • Lip Balm
  • Cream blush

Done fast, functional, and done enough to feel put together without needing a full setup.


๐Ÿš Final Thoughts from the Passenger's Seat Vanity

Everything beauty-related in Wildebeest has to pass one simple test: does it still make sense when we’re parked somewhere new tomorrow?

My “extra” makeup lives in Tennessee, waiting for swap days when we’re in the area. Everything else has to hold its own in motion, in small spaces, and in real life—not an ideal setup.

And honestly, that’s what makes the routine work. It’s not about having everything with me—it’s about always having enough.

—Amanda | Craftin' Wife

๐Ÿ’„ Next beauty post might involve me admitting how many “backup” products I’ve convinced myself are still essential… even though I rotate the same five things daily.

Monday, May 11, 2026

5 Vinyl Projects You Can Finish in One Sitting

 

๐Ÿท️ Vinyl Projects You Can Finish in One Sitting (No Stress Crafts)



You ever start a “quick little craft” and suddenly it’s three days later, your table is covered in vinyl scraps, your transfer tape is stuck to your elbow, and somehow you’ve questioned every life choice that brought you to this moment? ๐Ÿ˜‚

Yeah. Same.

That’s exactly why today we’re talking about easy vinyl projects that actually stay easy. No seventeen-layer shadow boxes. No projects requiring a sacrifice to the Cricut gods. Just simple, satisfying crafts you can finish in one sitting while your coffee is still warm. ☕✨

Because sometimes we want the joy of crafting without turning the entire bus into a glitter-coated disaster zone.


✂️ Why I Love “One Sitting” Crafts

Living and crafting in Wildebeest means space matters. I don’t have room for half-finished projects breeding on every surface. If a craft can be:

  • started,
  • finished,
  • photographed,
  • and put away before dinner…

…that’s a win in my book. ๐Ÿ™Œ

Vinyl crafts are perfect for that because they’re:
✔ beginner friendly
✔ affordable
✔ customizable
✔ fast enough for instant gratification

And honestly? Sometimes your brain just needs a low-stress creative win.


☕ 1. Simple Quote Mugs

Classic for a reason.

Grab a dollar-store mug, a scrap of permanent vinyl, and toss on:

  • a funny quote
  • your name
  • a seasonal phrase
  • a tiny design
  • coffee-related sarcasm (my favorite category)

Some easy ideas:

  • “Probably Reheating Coffee”
  • “Craft Now, Clean Later”
  • “Tiny Bus • Big Chaos”
  • “Fueled by Iced Coffee & Poor Decisions”

Minimal designs weed faster and apply easier, which means less frustration and fewer tiny vinyl letters trying to escape into another dimension.

Quick Tip:

Use larger fonts when possible. Tiny script lettering is where patience goes to die.


๐Ÿท️ 2. Pantry & Storage Labels

Listen… labels make everything feel put together even when life absolutely is not. ๐Ÿ˜‚

I love using vinyl labels for:

  • plastic storage bins
  • spice jars
  • craft drawers
  • makeup organizers
  • office supplies
  • snack containers

And since I’m a plastic bin defender for life, this is one of my favorite ways to make practical storage look cute without spending ridiculous money.

Easy Label Formula:

Pick:

  • ONE font
  • ONE vinyl color
  • ONE container style

That’s it. Don’t overcomplicate it.

Your future self will thank you.


๐Ÿชง 3. Small Wood Signs

Tiny signs are my happy place.

You can grab unfinished wood rounds or small plaques from:

  • Dollar Tree
  • Walmart
  • Michaels
  • random clearance aisles you “accidentally” wandered into ๐Ÿ‘€

Then add:

  • a seasonal phrase
  • a kitchen saying
  • camper decor
  • farmhouse quotes
  • sarcastic nonsense

Some easy examples:

  • “Welcome-ish”
  • “Home Sweet Campsite”
  • “Snacks”
  • “Chaos Coordinator”
  • “Please Leave By 9”

The trick is keeping the design SIMPLE.

One phrase.
One accent.
Done.

No layering fourteen different vinyl colors while fighting for your sanity.


๐Ÿš 4. Quick RV & Travel Decals

Vinyl decals are basically mandatory RV people behavior at this point. ๐Ÿ˜‚

Easy ideas:

  • campsite bucket labels
  • outdoor kitchen bins
  • lantern decals
  • water jug labels
  • Wildebeest-themed stickers
  • travel quote decals

These are fun because they make everyday gear feel personalized without taking forever.

And if you mess one up? Vinyl is forgiving enough that you can usually pretend it never happened.


✨ 5. Glass Can Cups & Tumblers

The internet may eventually move on from glass can cups…

…but I will not. ๐Ÿ˜‚

They’re easy.
They’re cute.
They make iced coffee feel fancy.

A simple name decal or tiny wrap design can completely change the look without turning into a giant project.

My Recommendation:

Stick with:

  • bold text
  • simple florals
  • tiny stars/hearts
  • minimalist designs

Detailed wraps look amazing… until you’re weeding them at midnight questioning reality.


๐Ÿงน Keeping Vinyl Crafts Low-Stress

Here’s the secret:
Not every project needs to become a masterpiece.

Sometimes crafting should just be FUN.

So before starting a vinyl project, ask yourself:

  • Can I finish this today?
  • Do I actually want to weed this design?
  • Am I making this harder than necessary?
  • Is this cute enough without adding twelve extra elements?

Simple projects are still creative projects.

And honestly? The fast little wins usually end up being the crafts I enjoy the most.


๐Ÿ’• Final Thoughts

If your crafting motivation has been low lately, try a no-stress vinyl project instead of tackling something massive.

A cute mug.
A few labels.
A tiny sign.
A simple decal.

That little burst of creativity can be enough to pull you out of a crafting slump without overwhelming you.

And if all else fails…
just blame the transfer tape. It’s usually the problem anyway. ๐Ÿ˜‚


✨ What’s your favorite quick vinyl project?
Are you a mug person, a label person, or somebody currently yelling at tiny script fonts? ๐Ÿ˜‚

— Amanda
Craftin’ Wife’s Creations ✂️๐Ÿ’•

Life in Wildebeest: What a Typical Travel Week Actually Looks Like

 ๐Ÿš Life in Wildebeest: What a Typical Travel Week Actually Looks Like



Craftin’ Wife’s Creations Blog

Let’s get one thing out of the way first: RV life is not one long scenic montage of sunsets, coffee views, and perfectly staged picnic tables.

It’s also… forgetting where you put the leveling blocks while standing in a gravel lot questioning all your life choices. ๐Ÿ˜…

Wildebeest doesn’t do “routine” in the traditional sense—but there is a rhythm to how our travel weeks usually flow. It’s just a rhythm that occasionally skips a beat, changes tempo, and demands snacks.

So here’s a realistic look at what life actually looks like inside our 1990 Ford E350 shuttle bus conversion (former county EMS command unit turned chaos-cozy home on wheels).


๐Ÿšฆ Driving Days: “Everything Must Be Stowed and Nobody Touch Anything”

Driving days are their own category of organized chaos.

Chris is behind the wheel, fully locked into driver mode—music on, caffeine in hand, mentally calculating fuel stops and road grades like it’s a video game level. I’m usually in the navigator seat, GPS queen duties activated, watching exits, weather shifts, and random “why is that road closed?” surprises.

Inside Wildebeest? Everything is secured like we’re preparing for mild turbulence on a very unpredictable airplane.

  • Cabinets double-checked
  • Loose items tucked away
  •  safe route through the living space established 
  • Snacks strategically positioned for morale

Driving days are equal parts excitement and “please let this lane change go smoothly.”


๐Ÿ•️ Arrival & Setup: The Controlled Chaos Phase

Pulling into a site always feels like the beginning of a mini project.



First comes the scan:

  • Is it level-ish?
  • Can we actually fit here without becoming a neighborhood landmark?
  • Where’s the sun going to be in three hours?

Then Wildebeest settles in.

Because we’re a former EMS shuttle conversion, we don’t have the typical RV hookups situation—no black tank, no gray tank, and no traditional water hookup system. Translation: everything we do is a little more intentional and a lot more “figure it out as you go.”

Setup usually looks like:

  • Parking and leveling
  • Power setup (when available)
  • Propane check for cooking
  • Interior reset so it feels like home again instead of a moving puzzle box

It’s not complicated, but it is a dance we’ve learned through trial, error, and at least one “why is the cabinet doing that” moment.


☀️ Midweek Life: The “This Is Actually Living” Part

Once everything is set, the pace slows down in the best way.

This is where Wildebeest becomes home instead of a vehicle.

Chris usually takes on:

  • Cooking (yes, still impressively functional in a tiny propane setup)
  • Editing content or working on writing projects
  • Gaming sessions when the day allows it

Meanwhile, I rotate through:

  • Blogging and social media updates
  • Planning our next stops (hello, spreadsheet chaos)
  • Reading, crafting, or getting lost in photography ideas
  • General “why is this bin overflowing again” organization resets

This is also the stretch where small routines matter most:

  • Morning coffee feels sacred
  • Evenings feel quieter, slower
  • We both start referring to “outside” and “inside” like they’re separate countries

๐Ÿ”ง The Reality Layer: Maintenance Never Sleeps



Even on “easy” weeks, something always needs attention.

  • Checking seals, latches, and anything that rattled too aggressively on the last drive
  • Managing propane levels like it’s a strategic resource
  • Rearranging storage when gravity decides to win
  • Keeping an eye on wear-and-tear from constant movement

Wildebeest is sturdy, but she’s also honest. She lets us know when something needs attention—usually through a noise that sounds mildly judgmental.


๐ŸŒ™ Downtime: The Part Social Media Doesn’t Show Enough

This is the part that makes the whole lifestyle worth it.

Sitting outside at dusk.
Listening to the world quiet down.
Cooking something simple and calling it dinner.
Laughing over things that would probably confuse anyone looking in.

There’s a weird kind of peace in living small and mobile—like life gets stripped down to what actually matters in the moment.

And yes… sometimes that moment is “where did we put the scissors this time?” but still. Growth. ๐Ÿ˜„


๐Ÿš The Truth About a “Typical Week”



There really isn’t one.

Some weeks we move every couple of days. Some weeks we barely touch the keys. Some weeks feel smooth, and others feel like we’re solving a never-ending puzzle with missing pieces.

*Currently we're semi permanently parked in NE Ohio.

But the rhythm is always the same underneath it all:

  • Drive
  • Settle
  • Live
  • Adjust
  • Repeat

And somehow, Wildebeest keeps rolling through all of it—messy, functional, weirdly cozy, and absolutely ours.


Until next time,
— Amanda ๐Ÿš✨