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Supporting Immunity While on the Road

Supporting Immunity While on the Road

I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links. I just got back from a week long road trip up the coast of California…

Coconut Oat Fruit Bake

Coconut Oat Fruit Bake

During the start of the Pandemic in March, I made huge Costco orders and tried to stock up on things that were shelf stable. So here we are months later, still pandemic-ing, but truth be told, fresh produce has not been hard to come by.

RV Hacks for Beginners: Lessons Learned on a Family Road Trip

RV Hacks for Beginners: Lessons Learned on a Family Road Trip

Years ago, my family and I embarked on a journey across the United States in our RV. We learned a lot along the way, and definitely made some mistakes! With so many people hitting the road in RVs this summer, I wanted to share some helpful tips, especially for first-timers.

Welcome to the “Safe Bubble” of RV Travel!

Traveling by RV offers a unique way to social distance while exploring the country. However, it also comes with new responsibilities. You’ll enjoy the convenience of a self-contained bathroom and refrigerator, but you’ll also be responsible for emptying the waste tank and keeping the fridge level while parked (to avoid damage).

Maintenance Made Easy: Sticky Note Reminders

RV maintenance isn’t difficult, especially if you follow instructions. We found a great system to avoid forgetting crucial steps: leaving sticky notes around the RV as reminders. We can all get tired or overwhelmed, especially when new to RV life, so these gentle nudges are helpful before powering on, powering off, or hitting the road.

Strategic Sticky Note Placement:

  • Bathroom: The age-old debate – toilet paper or not? While some experienced RVers recommend using septic-safe toilet paper, others prefer a dedicated trash can for used paper products (especially with kids or those who prefer a thicker toilet paper). We learned this lesson the hard way with a “toilet paper mountain” in our black water tank. A reminder note that says “NO PAPER” can prevent future headaches.
  • Steering Wheel: My husband uses a sticky note on the steering wheel that says “Remove Blocks.” He uses wheel chocks when parked on an incline, but it’s easy to forget and potentially damage the RV when pulling away if they’re left in place.
  • Fridge: Checking the power is simple, but is everything secure and level? RV fridges need to be level while operating to prevent refrigerant clogs. A “FRIDGE CHECK” note reminds me to look before we take off. Fridge packing tips are coming up!
  • Driver’s Side: This is a great spot for the passenger to leave a reminder for their own tasks. For example, I might leave a “Cabin Check” note to remind myself to make sure cabinets are secure and windows are closed. There’s nothing worse than hitting the highway only to hear the wind whistling through a forgotten window!

Packing Light: Lessons Learned

Packing light is a challenge! On our first trip, we overpacked, which likely reduced our gas mileage. We even brought three bikes that we only used twice during our month-long journey. Consider your destination and weather when packing. While bikes are generally a good idea, think about where you’ll be parked and the climate. If you were traveling in the fall with cooler temperatures, bikes might be more practical than in the scorching heat.

Must-Have RV Gear:

  • Foldable Chairs: Lightweight chairs are a great idea, especially since picnic tables aren’t always shaded.
  • BBQ Equipment: We actually prefer an induction cooktop for outdoor cooking (to avoid food smells lingering in our sleeping area). However, most RV parks have grills. If you choose to use the park grills, consider bringing cleaning tools (they’re rarely spotless) and the necessary fuel (charcoal, wood chips, etc.).
  • Sanitizing Wipes: Stock up on Lysol wipes for gas pumps, wallets, keys, door handles, and steering wheels. Wet wipes are great for general cleaning, and body wipes are handy for quick freshening up when a shower isn’t an option.

Clothing and Bedding:

  • Organization is Key: Most RVs have tall cabinets with limited shelving. Installing lightweight shelves creates more vertical space. For rentals, inexpensive plastic containers can help organize your belongings.
  • Be Prepared for All Weather: Even if you expect hot weather, pack clothes for cool nights and bring an extra blanket. Temperatures can vary greatly across the country. We experienced this firsthand, going from scorching heat in the South to freezing nights in Yellowstone. Layers are your friend!
  • Upgrade Your Sleep Comfort: RV beds and sofa-bed conversions are notorious for being uncomfortable. Invest in a memory foam topper or an egg-crate foam pad to save your back.

Kitchen Essentials:

  • Tupperware Power: Tupperware containers are great for storing cereal, crackers, nuts, and leftovers. They stack neatly, saving space, and some can even be used for pre-cracked eggs (no mess omelets on busy mornings!). Almond milk is shelf-stable and works well in cereal and coffee.
  • Fresh Produce: While normally we recommend buying groceries as you travel, during a pandemic, it’s wise to plan ahead. Pack vegetables
Teriyaki Tofu Quinoa Bowl

Teriyaki Tofu Quinoa Bowl

I make a big batch of quinoa every week in my rice cooker, so I have it ready to go for various different meal options. A tasty way to top quinoa is with lightly fried tofu slabs, fresh vegetables drizzled with a good quality Teriyaki…

ToyInsider’s SweetSuite@Home Event: Favorite STEM Toys for Young Learners

ToyInsider’s SweetSuite@Home Event: Favorite STEM Toys for Young Learners

As many children will be starting their school year off at home this year, it’s more important than ever that we stimulate our kid’s brains with spacial thinking and problem solving. STEM toys are a great way to supplement online education, and thankfully there’s a…

Childhood Obesity: Consequences, Causes & Prevention

Childhood Obesity: Consequences, Causes & Prevention

Raising healthy kids and teaching them good eating habits is now more important than ever. The percentage of children and adolescents affected by obesity has more than tripled since the 1970s. (more…)

Summer Harvest Chowder

Summer Harvest Chowder

Taking the bounty of summer – fresh corn, bell peppers, zucchini and tomatoes, I’ve created this delicious vegetarian Summer Harvest Chowder that is hearty, yet low in fat.  

Pickle Jar Potato Salad

Pickle Jar Potato Salad

I recently had some spicy bread & butter pickles that were OUT OF THIS WORLD. When all of the pickles were gone, I strugged with throwing the jar away. I actually left it in my refrigerator for a few days so I could think of…

Baked Crab Cakes

Baked Crab Cakes

One of the things I miss most about traveling during the summer, is rolling into little seaside cafes and ordering fresh crab cakes. Paired with a sweet and spicy pepper jelly or lemony tartar sauce, they are one of my most favorite appetizers. They are also one of the most expensive! I’ve paid skyhigh prices for tiny little cakes where although delicious, I felt like the dining experience was over before I could really enjoy them. Note to self: don’t inhale tasty food. Restaurants will also often add a lot of filler, so you don’t get much crab bang for your buck. Here’s an easy crab cake recipe you can make at home and for about the price of ONE restaurant appetizer – and you will have enough to feed 6 people! (more…)

Teen motorcycle safety tips for worried moms

Teen motorcycle safety tips for worried moms

As a parent, you’re always putting your child’s safety first. Whether that’s making sure they’re wearing a helmet on their bicycle or holding their hand as you cross the street, keeping our little ones safe is all part of being a good, responsible parent. 

Difference Between Hemp Plants & Hemp Flowers

Difference Between Hemp Plants & Hemp Flowers

CBD has become one of the most renowned pain-relief methods of the last couple of years. It has gained so much fame that it even managed to obtain its own national day in the United States. 

Yellow Split Pea & Lacinato Kale Soup

Yellow Split Pea & Lacinato Kale Soup

This is a great way to use up extra lacinato kale! My family doesn’t exactly LOVE kale, but I do try to incorporate it into recipes because it is a healthy, leafy green chock full of vitamins and minerals. This yellow split pea soup recipe is a great way to make lacinato tender and soft, and the fresh lemon juice really brightens the flavors. (more…)