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  • Tag: camping

    • It’s the little things that matter ~ Hoshi Chao V8.0 Subtle changes

      Posted at 1:00 pm by jengarynewadventures, on November 27, 2016

      This has been an exciting ride for us!  We are now at the point in our renovations that changes are very minor.  Most of the changes are really with the gadgets and items that we utilize to make our life more enjoyable, rather than upgrades to the trailer.  So with all that introduction this will be probably the last article on Hoshi Chao unless something major happens (hopefully to the good). 

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of how this fifth wheel became our Hoshi Chao, click any one of the articles below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Changing it All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

      Applying some colors!!! Hoshi Chao V4.0 Putting US Everywhere

      First Big Trip !~ Hoshi Chao V5.0 We’re Heading Out

      Making a better kitchen! ~ Hoshi Chao V6.0 Still Improving

      Now It’s Real Fun!!! ~ Hoshi Chao V7.0 “Tweaking”

      There have been several trips taken with our fifth wheel. She has been named “Hoshi Chao”, which means Stars Nest in Chinese, because we felt the need to name her and since she is the nest for us and all of our family and friends on our trips it seems appropriate. All of the systems in the trailer are working well.  All the finishes have been completed to our satisfaction, in fact we recently purchased paint to touch-up all the colors since we are now dinging and scratching areas from use.

      The title of this article seemed so correct for this point in time as we are now fine tuning the items within and without the trailer making it more and more a good fit to us and our lifestyle.  This happens in every home, even if it is a home-away-from-home trailer.  Once you determine how you like to utilize the trailer and the activities you will be doing, you find all the neat items to make life easier and better.

      We found that we didn’t care much for sitting up at the counter and eating, but as we sat outside and in the family area of Hoshi Chao we needed a flat surface or top.  Looking online for TV trays or computer lap desks gave us some ideas.  Best of all though, when discussing this with my mom, she shared that she and my dad had purchased a couple from back when they traveled in their RV and trailer down to Texas.  She was kind enough to share them with us, now that made it even more special.  So each time we pull out the folding lap tables or TV trays, whatever you call them, I can think of the two of them in years past enjoying their travels.  Couldn’t be any more special to me!! 

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      Now underneath the tray above you will notice a wine colored soft and comfy blanket that has electrical wires running throughout. With the temperatures getting colder, we felt we needed to upgrade the blankets from just quits in Hoshi Chao to electric blankets.  So two were purchased, one for the master bedroom and one for the couch/bed in the family area.  Let’s say they were warmly received (lol).

      To the left of my extended hand below, you will notice a newer small mid-level shelf has been added to the shelving units.  Yes, I know it needs to be painted still, but we found that will all the electrical gadgets we required another shelf that was not as visible to plug in our devices without creating such a cluttered area.

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      The family resting area needed a little ambiance, and yes since it is getting cooler, another electric heating device is always welcome.  It is amazing how quickly and effectively these units can heat up the area!  When all the lights are out, the (fake) fireplace offers a very romantic feel. 

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      Current televisions are based on the concept of bouncing their sounds off the lower back portion of the wall or surface out.  This does not always work well enough in the trailer, and too many times means you have to turn the volume up to levels which are annoying, don’t allow you to communicate, and on the outside of the trailer are obnoxious.  Enter old technology in the form of computer speakers.  Yes, I know they make wireless and wired sound bars and speakers, but when you have free outdated speakers laying around, what a simple solution.  Now the volume is half of what it used to be and you can easily listen and carry on a conversation.

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      While we love abandoned bird’s nests, we realized that there were just too many to take care of, and a couple that were falling apart.  Poor construction techniques and didn’t meet Codes (lol).  The remaining ones we elected to clean up with some sprucing and pulling of broken and items falling out and then spraying with a lacquer.  This sealed and protected the remaining nests and gave a very nice appearance. Also we had to bring into Hoshi Chao my grandfather’s lucky horseshoe that was purchased back in the early 70’s from Dollywood! 

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      Though we would show you a look at how well the trays worked for an impromptu steak dinner.

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      Lastly, we realized we needed a little more light in the family resting area, and the overhead lights can be a bit too much when you are not trying to read.  Some white icicle lights were threaded into our mesh netting and shell display and that provided a very special touch.  

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      Like I stated in the beginning, these really did not alter our Hoshi Chao, but definitely made out time living and resting within a much better ex0erience!

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 0 Comments | Tagged Better Living, camping, Fifth Wheel, Renovations, travels
    • Now It’s Real Fun!!! Hoshi Chao V7.0 ~ “Tweaking”

      Posted at 12:41 pm by jengarynewadventures, on November 7, 2016

      It is definitely real fun now!! Once the major renovations are complete, it is time for fine tuning your traveling home.  This means for us discussing every aspect of our stars nest or Hoshi Chao. Talking about how to improve the cooking, relaxing, bathing, getting ready, laundry, sleeping, and every other thing that we do during our normal day. As I have said before, our goal was to make this feel like a a home away from home.  Having spoke with others who enjoy the trailer experience, not everyone is this way.  They enjoy using their trailer to enjoy a different manner of living contrary to their home.  For us, as we are looking eventually to pull this nest around the country, we wanted a better home all the way around!

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of how this fifth wheel became our Hoshi Chao, click below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Changing it All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

      Applying some colors!!! Hoshi Chao V4.0 Putting US Everywhere

      First Big Trip !~ Hoshi Chao V5.0 We’re Heading Out

      Making a better kitchen! ~ Hoshi Chao V6.0 Still Improving

      One of the first things we discussed was making out time outside a more enjoyable time with lights that not only lit our path but gave us some enjoyment.  Then we shopped!! This holiday season make it a point to get out and see all the options available now for decorative outdoor lights.  This was a new genre a couple of years ago and look at it now. Our decision came down to functionality ultimately as we wanted something that would last beyond the Christmas holidays as now many of the stores were offering various Christmas decorations.

      Our final decision was a multi-colored moving display of lights, no lasers required.

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      This is the white only lighting.

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      This is the blue and white  lighting.

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      There is a green color and white also.

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      My baby’s favorite the red, white and blue!

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      Moving into the interior we are getting better now at decorating the shelving, storage and counter top, it only takes time. Notice the red bar stools ready underneath. Plus the amazing things that time and actual use brings with the storage shelving at the left of the kitchen counter top. This was our third trip out actually and with that it is somewhat funny what items we have not used, though we originally though it was absolutely needed.

      After a few times out, a simpler approach is used for the counters or shelves.

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      We have eliminated some of the clutter in the main area, it is so easy to throw things down when you first come through the door.

      The outlet strip mounted behind the television to clean up and make this area simpler.

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      We found the combination of photos of our children, candles and shells were perfect!

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      Early in the process we thought that items should be hot glued down.  This proved to be a poor decision as the temperature changes for a trailer, since they are not always with electricity, saw each of the items become unglued!!

      One of our rooster statues, nest and candle fit very well on the counter top.

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      Realizing that the refrigerator was not staying as cool as we needed consistently, we found a person who would be able to repair and bring it up to a solid performance.

      There ended up being three items with the fridge requiring replacement.

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      There were three skylights/vents that needed some help in functioning.  Online we found this solution of an insulated wool and silver reflective material that was sized to infill skylights and vents.  It is always wonderful getting direct sunlight, but we have found for most situations that it made the rooms far too hot, especially in Florida.  The amount of heat that was reduced due to the skylights was very noticeable.  There may be times in the future when we remove these fillers, but for the summer and fall they are wonderful.

      A simple solution to insulate, reflect and maintain temperature at skylights/vents.

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      We determined quickly that a bath mat and shower floor pads were needed to make the shower less slippery and the bathroom area more dry after showers.  Thankfully we found colors for both in our them rather easily.

      A coral colored floor mat for the bath area.

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      We found one of the more useful items for us in the bath area was the installation of a few small hooks with white vinyl coating.  Hand towels, jewelry, hair dryers and the like were much easier to access and hang up out of the way.

       

      1″ small white vinyl coated metal hook solved many a bath area situation.

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      Relocating a small previous spice rack for bath area needs was golden.  It is so much easier making it feel like home if your daily toiletries are easy to get to each morning.

      A small storage rack near the bath sink.

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      Cleaning of the awning, and the installation of sturdy adhesive tape on the bottom and top along the upper edge made this older material much better for our needs.

      The repaired and cleaned awning.

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      While I am unclear of how Bluetooth actually works, it is a marvelous thing in today’s electronic age.  We purchased a Memorex wireless bluetooth speaker that works with both of our telephones easily.  Playing music at a level much more enjoyable with rechargeable batteries built-in.

      Listening to your music whenever and wherever you would like is pure Magic!

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      On the outside of our Hoshi Chao was a little damaged metal panels.  So wonderful to find a marvelous metal marker to cover the damage with a clever saying.  

      Not easy keeping from growing up, while we all grow older each day!

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      One of the major systems for a trailer is the water system, and most important for making it like home is being able to take a hot shower.  We decided to replace the older original water heater with a newer 10-gallon gas water heater.  Ohhhhhhhhh so nice to feel first thing in the morning.

      New water heater fit in the same opening, even though a larger volume!

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      Dinosaur Electronics has proven to be a wonderful source for outdated electronic parts.  Plus they offer a warranty for three months on many of the items.  Once the three items that required repair or replacement on the fridge, she kept all items cold very consistently.

      The control panel for the fridge, new and under warranty.

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      Now there are a few other outdoor items we take with us when traveling.  They offer a little bit of home, but take up little space.  These include wind chimes and a welcome weather vane.

      Our turtle bamboo wind chimes provide wonderful sounds in the breeze.

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      The original bamboo tropical wind chimes from years past.

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      Our newer rooster weather vane.

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      One item we began noticing at each and every camp site was how much of the outside was brought in every time we walked through the door.  This was corrected easily when we found two four foot x five foot mats that easily knocked off any debris before entering our Hoshi Chao.

      Two medium sized mats and one small mat make for a clean trailer.

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      The newly installed water heater cover with the gold paint to match.

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      Our recently repaired and smooth gliding door separating the bath from the family room area.

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      A view from the outside of our quaint seating area.

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      After two semis blasting their extremely loud horn and flashing their lights as they passed us, we put 2 and 2 together=6 new cautionary lights on our back bumper. These should do a better job of lighting us up when the headlights come along.

      All items were only a few dollars, but provide such wonderful protection from other drivers.

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      Always looking for ways to make it better and to feel like a home away from home.  With each adventure we are finding small ways that make it work smoother. Keep reading, more versions will come as we head onto the next adventures. 

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 1 Comment | Tagged camping, Fifth Wheel, Fort Wilderness Campground, Freedom, Walt Disney World Resorts
    • Making a Better Kitchen! Hoshi Chao V6.0 ~ Still Improving

      Posted at 12:56 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 29, 2016

      Now that our first big trip is behind us, we are working on improving our Stars Nest (Hoshi Chao). After a five day trip to Florida, there were things we realized needed to be upgraded and improved.  Taking the trailer away from your home and out on the road is the best way to determine what needs to be made better to make it a “Home away from home.”

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of how this fifth wheel became our Hoshi Chao, click below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Changing it All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

      Applying some colors!!! Hoshi Chao V4.0 Putting US Everywhere

      First Big Trip !~ Hoshi Chao V5.0 We’re Heading Out

      We were very pleased with the working flow of the kitchen area, but realized that the desk area was not needed.  We now work both on laptops and needed both more counter space and large appliance storage.

      First obvious change was to make a better kitchen counter top, no need for a desk area. 

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      There was a “dead” area between the built-in shelves and the counter that we decided to link together to make a useful area.  The key was measuring all of our appliances and making certain the width of the extension would service anything that would use the space. Ended up that the width of 14″ was perfect for anything in our kitchen to sit on this long narrow surface.

      Though the stove has always worked well, with the advent of the George Foreman grill and various other appliances, we needed a place to store each electrical gadget.  Once the desk was removed, we realized the depth of the shelving would be almost 24″ which gave us the much needed storage area!

      Small appliances need easy access and storage

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      Several color chips and alternative materials for the top was brought home to review.  Take your time in this process and make certain you know the pro’s and con’s with each material. We ultimately preferred the plastic laminate. Though there were other nice possibilities.

      The gray colors blended with the white and red very well

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      Yes, we Love Lucy.  It has been one of our favorite shows.  With the purchase of the fifth wheel we already had the back  splash ready. We did look at several glass and ceramic tiles and metal wall panel products, but Lucy ultimately won out!

      We love Lucy!

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      The counter top even displayed well against the new colors.  Take your time when selecting a new counter top as this a major color factor in the kitchen area. Taking the time to make certain that new elements do not make drastic changes to the feel or theme you are working towards is critical.

      Still thinking about the right side of the stove for a different texture 

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      The refrigerator and freezer  worked well once we were home and even on this side trip, though we knew this was eventually going to need repair.  Sometimes I drag my feet a little longer than I should.

      Gray , red, black and white looking good together!

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      Even the television blends with the color scheme

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      The setup for the fifth wheel was becoming very comfortable.  With time, and practice the backing up and connections become more of a second nature. We decided to take a quick weekday trip near our home to enjoy our Hoshi Chao and checkout life on the lake. 

      Setup at Cedars Creek State Park

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      Notice we are now flying our Marine colors ~ OORAH!

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      Our outside gear worked so well with the lake setting .

      The lake is just off in the distance with the geese and ducks our morning visitors

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      Setting up camp and getting ready for the first evening is so special.  We have started to realize that the first night makes a big impact on your trip.  Focus on what you are wanting to achieve for the evening and work together!! Once we arrive my beautiful adventurer prefers to sort out all of the breakable items that we pack away safely into totes before we travel, while I handle getting the utilities connected, the relaxing gear setup and awning extended.

      Getting ready for our first night, seeking romance…

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      Once you have worked so hard to make a place your own with decorations and paint, you feel such a sense of pride! Nothing that can take that away!!  This project taught us a lot about ourselves, but it gave us something we did together.

      Looking back towards the family room, bath and bedroom area

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      The bedroom area became such a comfortable area that we relax and sleep so well. Find your comfort items that are near and dear, then make certain to include them in your design.   

      A few candles, some low lights, and a few pillows

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      Bathroom area with no changes, doesn’t this photo look rustic with the bad lighting?

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      Okay, so I am a romantic, and had to photograph the areas with candles instead of lights. Doesn’t it feel nice!!! Now we are all ready for the first night on the lake.  

      Watching King of Queens with my baby!!

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      The counter top extension provided a nice surface for the candles

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      Who left the fan light on?  

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      Continuing on with our project means only making it better at this point!!  If you are not up to speed please check out the previous Version of the articles to understand our whole journey from initial purchase to where we are now. Keep reading, there are more versions to come as we keep fine tuning and making it better and better!!

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 5 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Journeys, life, Renovations, RV
    • First Big Trip! Hoshi Chao V5.0 ~ We’re Heading Out

      Posted at 11:42 am by jengarynewadventures, on October 24, 2016

      Guess where we are? 🙂 I will give you a hint. We are visiting a mouse! Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, being so established with so many amenities, proved to be a wonderful place for us to start learning how to travel in our Hoshi Chao.

      This is the continuing story of how we took the journey of traveling in  a fifth-wheel.  Starting with purchasing an older model trailer and enjoying turning her into Hoshi Chao, which is translated Chinese for “Stars Nest”.  Our little nest as we begin traveling around this wonderful United States.  Many lessons learned as we headed out, and patience being the best thing in our toolbox!

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of Hoshi Chao, click below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Changing it All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

      Applying some colors!!! Hoshi Chao V4.0 Putting US Everywhere

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      These sites are great! Every one is level, spacious and clean. There are variations of of coquina shell sand and pavement, depending on Disney’s level of amenities and pricing. 

      The first lesson I had to learn on this trip happened as soon as we left the driveway.  Notice the truck tool box in the back of our truck?  Well, the distance from the center of the ball to the edge of the toolbox was not as great as we needed once we turned a corner and immediately our first repair happened.  The front bottom metal received a ding, crimp and trear, which I fixed the first day in camp. Yay!!! Learn from my mistake.  Make certain you can have a tool box.  Each truck is different in the length of the truck bed and the center ot the rear axle.  I found out I could not have a tool box, the hard way!

      Note: Our grandbabies and daughter have already started their artwork with chalk. The art we appreciate the most! 

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      Once Hoshi Chao was set up and leveled, it was time to relax.  We decided to NOT bring our computer with us, which really made it clear that our “desk” idea was not that good to function as a kitchen extension.  Too many levels, so plates, cups and accessories had a hard time using that corner.  Seemed like a good idea at the time…

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      Second item requiring repair appeared on the second day when the refrigerator quick working properly.  For several months in our backyard it worked great.  The freezer was keeping cold, but the fridge was not cold at all.  We had to pull out our old cooler and work in that mode.  Not a vacation killer, but when you are geared up to have a fridge it means storing things differently and getting ice daily.  This will be repaired after this trip.  

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      The “working” side of the trailer with the water, seweer and electrical connections and storage bins.  Everything worked well, no concerns with hookups or panels.

      I would recommend to all adventurers that you consider purchasing one of these folding, extendable ladders.  They are great for just about anything you need to access you trailer, and fold down so small and convenient.

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      A closer view of the sewer hose and connection.  Making certain it is secure and sloping properly is a key element to a carefree vacation.  This is something you want to take care of when you are setting up and packing away.  Do a good job so you do not have issues while you are camping.   

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      A little glory shot of our truck and Hoshi Chao, so proud we are out on an adventure!

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      The awning looks much better than before, but there are many tiny holes in the fabric that we worked on throughout the stay at Fort Wilderness Campground.  Duct tape is a beautiful thing, especially in colors that match! Our outside setup was comfortable and convenient for the two of us, our daughter and her three children.  Plenty of room to move around and tables to sit and store items.

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      We purchased a lazy susan for the corner spice cabinet, and could not have been happier.  Look around your trailer and I can bet there are locations one could make finding things much easier.

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      Hope you enjoyed seeing the images from our first learning experience. It was quite different than camping out in our backyard. Sure there were a couple of fails, but those can be fixed and hopefully not repeated! All in all a very wonderful time together, very happy with our fifth-wheel.   Hope you are enjoying the ride!

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 5 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Fifth Wheel, Journeys, life, Renovations, RV
    • Incredible Camping at Defeated Creek!

      Posted at 2:25 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 18, 2016

      Time to head to one of the most beautiful campgrounds in the State!  Of course I am talking about Defeated Creek Campground in Carthage, Tennessee. Just a few miles outside of Carthage and you will be up in the mountains taking in incredible wildlife and breathtaking views.

      The campground is seasonal opening in Mid-March and closing at the end of October. So while your time is running out for 2016, make your plans for 2017.  You will be very glad you did!!

      There are miles of paved trails and roads to enjoy.  Before you enter the campsite area, there is a great day park with playground equipment, lots of open spaces, picnic tables, and yes a restroom facility.

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      Watch your step, while wildlife is abundant, deer do not always use discretion.

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      The flowers and woods are beautiful any time of the year.

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      There are many campsites to choose from with my favorite, anything along the lake.

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      If you are intersted in making a reservation, click on the Recreation.Gov website.  It is easy to use, and you can find the best spot on the lake or off the lake for you and yours whenever your schedule allows.

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      There are plenty of large, open spaces for group activities or just to run free!

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      Don’t let yourself stay dry just because you do not have a boat!  Check out the Defeated Creek Marina where you will find all kinds of boats available for rent or just a place to pull your boat up and into for gas or a rest.  By the way they have a fantastic restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating to let you enjoy this natural paradise! 

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      There are clean and easy to access comfort stations around the campground for your use. 

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      There are 155 campsites available with only 63 providing sewer hookups.  So check with your reservations carefully! Do not dismay though, as there is a dump station conveniently located at the entrance/exit, so never fear.

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      This spot is just waiting for you to relax, catch some fish, or hang out with your families and friends. There is a swimming beach available, and a couple of picnic shelters available for first come, use.

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      Plenty of parking for you and your boat trailer if you decide to visit just for the day!

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      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels, On My Mind | 5 Comments | Tagged camping, Defeated Creek, State Parks, Tennesee, Wildlife
    • Applying some colors!!! Hoshi Chao V4.0 – Putting US Everywhere

      Posted at 12:14 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 17, 2016

      We love to P A I N T- Picking out colors is so much fun! What a fun time as a couple, paint, paint brushes, seeing our little place transform before our eyes. This is our freshly painted room. 

      Now, we need to say that some of these photos are from a poor quality cell phone and you will see what we are talking about.  

      Sorry for these and this is the last article we will apologize.

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of Hoshi Chao, click below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Changing it All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

       

      Back to the story…

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       We started adding my little frogs in to our Beachy Florida theme. One is a frog vase that my second daughter and her husband got me about 5 years ago for my birthday. We like to keep incense sticks in it.

      See my little green frog on the right, my dad gave it to me as a gift, so sweet, memories.

      Notice the two colors selected in the blue-green color hue?  

      wpid-20150918_141453.jpg

      Remember all of those little wall mounted storage racks, and, of course picture frames?  They are all getting a makeover in our new colors! Everyone and everything needs a makeover once in a while. 

      20150919_112335.jpg

      The kitchen theme became roosters and chickens, with the colors being white with red cabinets. Oh my, we kind of struggled with the red. Painting with no mistakes is very hard since red is unforgiving.

      The little vintage refrigerator got a fresh color uplift as well. Sorry NASA, she is OURS!

      wpid-20150918_141515.jpg

      Looking back from the kitchen you can see the Florida beach theme colors of aqua and green we used for the highlighting.

      wpid-20150918_141545.jpg

      Being creative with the paint was a lot of fun. We did step in a drop of paint and walked it on the carpet, but quickly tried to clean it up! *Note, always keep rags, drop clothes and whatever cleaner nearby. The bathroom closet wall cleaned up great!

      wpid-20150918_141920.jpg

      The wall mounted television worked out great and is at the just the right height. Notice how much brighter the overall space is with the ceilings painted a fresh white? 

      We are still working on the shelves for the electronics and display area. Ultimately, this was our decision to hold all of our needed items for the TV, but to also give us some area to decorate. The difficulty was that we wanted open space, so we installed only what we needed!

      wpid-20150928_161705.jpg

      The bedroom started to get new themed mirrors and reconditioned hooks for hats. We moved these curtains in from the other room. On the to-do list is to make new curtains that will make the room pop (wonder what Version will be included)!

      wpid-20150928_161754.jpg

      More themed and decorations mounted on the walls.  In the bedroom we elected to paint the ceiling the dark aqua and it is so calming at nighttime.

      wpid-20150928_161804 (1).jpg

      The bathroom walls cleaned up wonderfully with a fresh coat of paint.  We wanted to change the beautiful yellow shower plastic (yuck) but ultimately realized that since  it was not broken , no need to fix it!  A new shower curtain will cover the entire front, so move on………

      wpid-20150928_161817.jpg

      The iron hooks were found at our local community center and reconditioned to match our theme. Notice, how using the two colors of blue and green in the bathroom gave the room some dimension in a rather small space. 

      wpid-20150928_161833.jpg

      This was just a little plain nightlight. We have a lot of shells from living in Florida. By gluing on a whole sand dollar it really blossomed!

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      We initially sanded and reconditioned the counter tops white.  Insider note, in an upcoming version this has since been changed. For the initial time though this provided a solid look and kept our budget in check.  Don’t you wish you did not have to have a budget!? I will say though, the two red sink covers did not last long.

      wpid-20150928_161847.jpg

      The netting was from a large piece of decoration we took from our home. It once belonged to Moby Dick, but that is another story entirely…

      The netting received hot glued shells on it and the reconditioned picture frames with ocean and beach designs really came together.

      wpid-20150928_161910.jpg

      Our colors are slowly getting pulled in. We found a Welcome Mat that has the blues and greens to match our theme.

      So beautiful when you step back.

      Oh yes, we decided to keep the the couch. In the end it came close to our beach theme  colors, functioned well as a fold out bed, and it was not broken.  With the original finishes inside, we truly did not appreciate it at all, but funny how changing the other elements made it work out fine. Below is a photo of the couch folded out to make a bed with a red quilt.

      2016-04-30 12.00.51.jpg

      I love my little pantry. Pulled out here and ready to fill. Then you slide it back in. DO NOT forget to latch it. Yes, we learned the hard way (lol). We traveled and got back in to find food all over the floor. Doesn’t our little old frig look amazing in red! Also notice how well the range hood cleaned up and painted in a gloss black.  It matches the new microwave.

      2016-04-30 12.01.06.jpg

      Here is an inside photo of the refrigerator and freezer, just right for us now.

      2016-04-30 12.01.27.jpg

      I found a Happy Camper! Still making a few repairs, but most of our decorations are being placed around. Notice how nicely the computer area and rolling office chair works.

      2016-04-30 12.01.37.jpg

      Our mirrors arrived! They look so classy. We could not hang them right away. Our weather was too cold and they would fall, not holding to the adhesive. There was room left for both of them to allow for a little decorating and storage shelf.

      2016-04-30 12.01.50.jpg2016-04-30 12.01.57.jpg

      We found a perfect pic for the bathroom. Thank you Herb Alpert! She is covered in bubbles! Tried the use of the white jewelry mobile rack. My advise is NO.  Most of her jewelery found its way out of the plastic through the traveling process and thus, we own it no more!

      2016-04-30 12.02.09.jpg

      Love our bedroom! Total transformation from brown country to blue beach Florida. We have our quilts with Stars. They go with the title Hoshi Chao. Bet you hadn’t figured that one out did you?

      2016-04-30 12.02.18.jpg

      Looking good! Still working with the sink and plumbing, one of life’s little joys. All i nall though it was starting to come together. Notice the completed shelving on the left below the television?

      2016-04-30 12.02.35.jpg

      I take my own pics sometimes. Goof ball.

      2016-04-30 12.03.43.jpg

      First time hanging baskets of flowers, wind chimes, and lights!!

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      We decided to try the zero gravity chairs and we love them.  Plus the color goes nicely with our outside colors. Our wind chimes were fun to pick out as we traveled to Florida. Have you ever noticed once you get close to Ocala all the places to get souvenirs? This one has a turtle on the top, hust right for the Turtle Man.

       IMG_4241.JPG

      Getting the books onto the bookshelfs, and towels into the center cabinet on the lupper left. 

      IMG_4243.JPG

      We tried to somewhat hide a Ron Jon sticker. We have so much fun in Cocoa Beach, shopping there, spending time in the surf. The desk chair has proven to be a plus for not only working at the counter, but rolling over is a comfy chair to relax next to the couch.

       IMG_4244.JPG

      Do not dismay, this is only the beginning of the finshing touches.  The next couple of Versions will cover taking Hoshi Chao on her first trips and the minor changes onces we began to live in her while on the road.  Hope you are enjoying the ride!

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

       

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 7 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Fift Wheel, Journeys, life, Renovation, RV
    • Changing It All!! Hoshi Chao V3.0 – Making it OURS

      Posted at 1:13 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 13, 2016

      First order of business-Removing all the built-in cabinetry in the eating and family areas. Once that began, the carpeting needed to go, as it was outdated and in worn condition.  The removal of the bench seat and carpeting made it clear there was a leak from the outside access storage hatch.  

      As the hatch was not needed any more, that was closed, locked and sealed around the perimeter.  Then replacement of the damaged wood supports and subfloor could take place.  

      If you have not read the previous Versions of the story of Hoshi Chao, click below:

      Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

       

      2015-08-08 12.46.27.jpg

      A little better picture of the extent of damage from the water leak.

      When you are looking at an older trailer, take all the time it requires to check all outside walls, especially at connections of outer walls to the roof, penetrations from equipment and pipes, and any openings on the sides.  Better to know and ensure that these areas are all secure and sealed.  If you need to re-seal now is the easiest and cheapest time to repair!

      2015-08-08 12.46.39.jpg

      Minor cleanup at the couch location. Be careful of the gas and water lines that run behind and along your areas.  A little damage can go a LONG way down the road when everything is back in place.

      2015-08-08 12.46.58.jpg

      The resilient flooring was acceptable for now, while we determined what type of flooring materials we wanted for the lower level.  The carpeting was kept on the bathroom and bedroom areas as the sun had not faded, nor were there worn areas as in the kitchen and family areas.

      2015-08-08 12.47.05.jpg

      This is where there was cabinetry and shelving for the small TV. So much better to open up. We looked at several ideas online and were weighing the options for what fit our needs best.

      2015-08-08 12.47.13.jpg

      Still-Undecided on what to do with the couch.  It was not at this time something that we loved. We began looking for options and also, to determine what theme would be used in each area.  So important (And Fun) to match all items to the theme!

      2015-08-08 12.47.20.jpg

      I think NASA might have wanted the refrigerator and freezer, but we elected to keep.  SORRY NASA, you can’t have it! I don’t think the silver will stay though…

      2015-08-08 12.47.26.jpg

      We removed the cover to the over stove cabinet and measured to find that new microwaves require more space than back in the 1980’s!  Who knew?

      The range hood came off easy, and the disgusting look was mostly from surface rust.  Time to spend cleaning, sanding and painting. Then Magic. Looks brand new!

      2015-08-08 12.47.35.jpg

      The old microwave location proved to be a whatever type of space.  It did not have a door, and we were uncertain if we wanted to install one.  Time again where we started thinking of what would serve best up in this space.  That is the fun of working together and taking your time.  At this point we are really just removing the old, repairing or replacing, so, who knows what it was to become!

      2015-08-08 12.47.40.jpg

      The cabinet space continued to be amazing as we opened each door and realized how they would function.  We didn’t think we would use all of them, but trust me, we did! A girl can not have too many cabinets in her kitchen 🙂

      2015-08-10 08.36.35.jpg

      This phase of the repairs and renovations took a few weeks as our evenings were just too busy. That actually made it so much better for us to take our time and work on areas together and discuss the potential.  I encourage you to not rush through this phase either, once you know what you want the finishes move fast, but this is where you make it special.

      2015-08-10 08.36.52.jpg

      Her is one of our little ones, bless all of them, they love to be close to us. Our beautiful granddaughter was a tremendous helper and she loved to dance to the music while we worked (lol).

      2015-08-13 18.27.49.jpg

      This is the state of our awning. We kept it rolled out so that the sun could dry it and take away some of the stain. We reviewed various options from replacement to repairs and thought it best to see where the overall budget fell before making any final decisions.  Thankfully, with some minor taping and caulking, most of the leaks are sealed and with some cleaning it looks much better. 

      2015-08-13 18.34.41.jpg

      This is fun! We are in the process of staging the walls for new paint. Picking out colors together!

      Our thoughts at this time was for a computer/work area on the front left where the old bench sat, using an office chair with rollers.

      2015-08-13 18.37.35.jpg

      More preparations filling holes and cracks. Take your time, it is so easy to miss a few here or there until you have the paint brush in your hand!!

      2015-08-13 18.37.54.jpg

      The leak in the kitchen floor was fixed, dry and getting ready for new flooring.  Still working on the final touches for the outside wall cover paneling.

      2015-08-13 18.38.09.jpg

      The computer/work shelf was a nice addition, unfortunately, for me, I spent too much time gazing out the side window (lol). 

      2015-08-13 18.38.15.jpg

      We started to cover the entry area wall in the family area, still thinking through what we felt was needed. There are so many possibilities for storage and decorating your home.  Shelves, bins, cabinets, or nothing at all!  Since we took the time to remove the original, we wanted to be very certain before adding back into the space.

       

      The weather proved to be fantastic! Beautiful, sunny, hot summer weather. Windows open, fan on, and music playing. Prepping and sanding the walls for paint.

      2015-08-13 18.39.56.jpg

      Whatever type of furniture we felt would cover these pipes and duct. 

      2015-08-13 18.40.06.jpg

      Once we determined where the wall mounted television would be installed, additional plywood wall backing was installed.  These exterior walls are really not sturdy enough to hold that much weight, so plan ahead when remodeling yours. Remember the old corner cabinet up there, so much cleaner!

      2015-08-13 18.40.15.jpg

      The medicine cabinet was removed, not something Jennifer  wanted, and we decided to order custom mirrors to fit both sides. We kept the cute little sink and cabinet below as is. 

      2015-08-13 18.40.26.jpg

      The wall paper was decided to stay, and we would paint over.  A test area was completed and it looked great, so why bother removing and having to patch?

      2015-08-13 18.40.44.jpg

      This is the corner shelf that was in the family room minus the front screen cover. It was too nice and handy to toss. Jennifer needed a little more storage, (who knew),:) so it is in our room.

      2015-08-13 18.41.01.jpg

      The previous owners had replaced the roof, but the damage from before needed to be remedied. We utilized for all the ceiling areas Kilz paint.  This paint is great for painting over areas where there is a discoloration or mold.

      2015-08-13 18.41.08.jpg

      Not much to do in the bedroom corner.

      2015-08-13 18.41.28.jpg

      All of the little storage knick knack (is that a real word?) items and things to hold small items were taken off the walls and set aside to recondition once we determined the themes and colors.

      20150919_112323.jpg

      We hope you are enjoying these articles on our journey to make this fifth-wheel Hoshi Chao, OUR star’s nest!  Version 4.0 will be coming soon with the application of the themes and colors!!  

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 8 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Fifth Wheel, Journeys, life, Renovations, RV
    • What Have We Bought? Hoshi Chao V2.0 Setup & Cleaning

      Posted at 1:09 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 8, 2016

      From V1.0, we explained how the name Hoshi Chao is taken from Chinese traditional language, meaning “Stars Nest.” This is the continuation of the story of how she came into our lives and what it has meant for our adventures! 

      If you have not read V1.0 please take the time so you can get up to speed. Now that she is home, we are getting very excited and can’t wait to start working on her.  As promised earlier, these photos are going to really impress the look and feel of the original vision. Continue reading →

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 8 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Fifth Wheel, Journeys, life, Renovations, RV
    • Searching for the Right One? Hoshi Chao V1.0 – Purchasing

      Posted at 12:32 pm by jengarynewadventures, on October 6, 2016

      Ever thought about traveling as a way of life? Not waiting until retirement, but as soon as possible, heading out to new and exciting places!! Changing the seasons by moving around the country? Seeing more of this great land and the entire world we live while we still are able and full of energy.

      How would you want to travel?  Do you fly and hotel it everywhere?  What about taking your own custom home with you?  To feel the freedom of travel and adventureand still have the comforts of home!! 

      Continue reading →

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 7 Comments | Tagged camping, family, Fifth Wheel, Journeys, life, Renovations, RV
    • Cedar Creek Campground Magic

      Posted at 1:45 pm by jengarynewadventures, on August 15, 2016

      Camping during the middle of the week,close to home and work,was a tremendous idea. A Goal we had. And we accomplished!!!

      We packed the 5th wheel Tuesday night,and pulled out Wednesday, late afternoon. The whole drive to our campsite and set up time was a little less than an hour. I followed behind in my minivan so that I would have a way to get to work on Thursday and Friday. I was less than half an hour from my jobs and my husband was less than 40 minutes from his office.cimg0975.jpg

      Cedar Creek Campground is a Corps of Engineers campground open for the spring through fall season on Old Hickory Lake. The campground has close to sixty pads for tent camping through full sized RV’s. Our campsite was located in a beautiful, quiet area close to the lake.

       

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      We took leisurely walks. We saw wildlife and the most beautiful sunsets!

       

       

       

       

      bunny.jpg

       

       

      Our stay there was for only a few days.

       

       

      ducks.jpg

      Enough time to return home feeling rejuvenated! If you have not visited a park or camground in a while, put it on your list. You will be very glad you did!

      IMG_0147.JPG

      Share a fun camping or outdoors story with us.

      Check us out at JenGaryNewAdventures.com and follow us on Pinterest.

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      Posted in Gary's Travels | 0 Comments | Tagged Adventure, camping, Cedar Creek Campground, goals, Old Hickory Lake, Outdoors, Wildlife
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