Here's the entry I submitted for the 82nd edition into the Tiny House Magazine!

September 23 2019 Entry

My name is Amanda Marie and I am a full-time travel vlogger, bartender, artist, and influencer. I sold almost everything to my name back in November 2017 and hit the road full-time May 2018 for an adventure of a life time! I live a beautiful, simple, and minimalist life every single day while inspiring others to live their best lives too. I chose to live a life of travel shortly after I almost lost my life at age 21. Just two months after my birthday, I was rushed into emergency surgery to save my life. I had an ulcer which perforated my stomach causing free air to seep which would have killed me in under 24 hours. While I was in surgery, they noticed that my spleen was covered in sists, so they cut me from under my breast line to my belly button and removed my spleen as well. When I woke up life was completed different for me. I had lost something I never had a direct connection to, yet I gained this appreciation for life and in those moments I felt connected to my body, mind and soul for the first time. Learning how to walk again and learning how to live with my new limitations put life into perspective for me. I was currently enrolled in the Forensics program at West Virginia University when I had my surgery. Fortunately, most of my professors let me finish the semester from home while I was on bed rest. A few months after my surgery, with weeks of begging my surgeon to still let me go, I went to London and Paris on a group tour with EF Ultimate Break. That was my first international group tour and a major turning point in my life and thoughts on full time travel. After returning back to college the following semester, something inside of me changed, I was still good at the subjects I was learning, but I had no interest in it anymore. I saw how my classmates faces would light up during our mock crime scenes and I saw their passion for Forensics grew as mine dissipated. The only thing that brought me true joy was travel and art. I finished my degree at WVU with a BS in Forensics and a minor in Sociology, applied for 73 jobs across the USA in every state except Alaska, traveled both local and international, and started to bartend full time while I waited for a call back for a job. 

     I eventually moved back home to NYC where I managed a craft cocktail bar and restaurant for two years. Running the bar was an integral piece in my story line and while living back in NYC I managed to pay off all my student loans, get an apartment, a new car, travel both locally and internationally quite often, and save up for "my future". I wasn't sure exactly what my future entailed, but I knew that I was the only one in control of it. I knew my future would include a tiny house, a life of travel, and a life with tons of creativity and art. I knew I wanted to go on an adventure of a life time and explore myself, others, and the world around me. I knew that there was more to life, I knew that deep in my core that working for others for the rest of my life wasn't going to be it for me. In September 2017 I had another major shift in my life. The way I was treated at work was taking a huge toll on me, I had a new boyfriend I just moved in with, another roommate who was a slob, was dealing with some health issues, and resigned from the management position at my job. I decided to take a two week vacation and I traveled with EF Ultimate Break alongside 44 incredible individuals to Costa Rica. This is the trip that changed my life. This is the trip that opened my eyes to alternative ways of living, to quality of life, and to our connection to nature and everything around us. When I got back from Costa Rica I was on an adventure high and a creative flow with one goal and one goal only...HAPPINESS. I dug deep, I self-reflected, and I decided that "my future" is going to be anything I want it to be and it starts now! By November 2018 I was driving an 18 year old RV through Downtown Brooklyn back home to convert into my tiny house on wheels. 

     It was a six month build that tested me in ways I never thought were possible. Through all the sweat, blood, and tears, with the help of my friends, family, and my regulars from work, I didn't just create a tiny house, I created a moving piece of art. My initial goals were to leave NYC and head west seeing all of the places I've always wanted to see along the way. I saved up for three months of full-time travel and I figured when that ran out I would look for some land to park my tiny house and find some work. I left NYC May 2018 and fifteen minutes later I was in a shop getting all 6 tires replaced because one blew and almost sent the RV off the road fifteen minutes into the trip. That was the moment I realized I had no idea what I was getting myself into, this trip will be unlike anything I have ever experienced in my life, and I am going to go through so much growth along the way. Three months, thirty states, 10,000 miles later, and with only $37 left in my bank account, I made it completely across the country to Washington. There I got a job, sold my RV and moved into a tent for a month while I decided if I should get an apartment or build another tiny house. September 2018 I accidentally drove back to my tent with a 2018 Ford Transit HF and moved everything I owned out of the tent and into the van. I lived in the van for a few weeks on a cot and with some bins of clothes before meeting up with another traveler to start the build on my van. Wess Lewis from Transcend Existence helped me start the build on my van up north in Washington. After spending 18 days on the build, exploring the islands, and making new friends, I headed south down the coast to meet up with another traveler, Phil Gorman. Phil was a carpenter back in Australia prior to him selling everything to travel the USA in his converted skoolie. He offered to help me complete my build and I met up with him and have been traveling the country making art and converting off-grid vans and buses with him ever since. 

     Choosing to live on the road was one of the best decisions I have ever made! Just a few weeks ago I sold my van to a good friend and moved into Phil's skoolie to start a new chapter together. This has shown me that it's not only about how you travel, but it's the people and places that matter most. I have now officially traveled the USA in an RV, a van, and a skoolie and along side some of the most incredible like-minded people! The lessons and growth I've experienced in relation to myself, others, the world, human connection, and nature are unlike any learning experience I've ever encountered. I have learned so many things while on the road, but most important I learned that we all connected and everything happens for a reason. When you finally let go of control, life will play out just the way that it is supposed to. Life on the road is life raw and accelerated in such a unique way just like an amusement park, where you get on line and buckle up for an adventure of a lifetime. Being able to share this unique growth process with y'all has been so rewarding. When I started all of this, my goals were just for me, but now a year and a half later, I am not just doing this for me, but I am doing it for you too. I am sharing my daily scrapbook with y'all and inspiring others to get out there and live out their dreams. My goals are to continue on this beautiful self growth process, inspire others, see the world, surround myself with culture, and create a creative space to share with others. My 2020 goal is to find land and spend the next few years creating an off-grid community filled with opportunity for us all. I cannot wait to share this new chapter and adventure and I ask if you would all come along on this adventure with me!

San Diego is one of the most visited tourist destinations in America and for good reason, it's an oceanfront city with near-perfect year-round weather. With over 70 miles of coastline and 150 days of sunshine each year. it's no wonder they consider San Diego America's Finest City.

We spent a day at Balboa Park, the city's definitive cultural hub.

Into paradise named after the 15th-century explorer Vasco núñez de Balboa, the park is the pride of the city and a National Historic Landmark located in downtown San Diego about two miles north of the city center.

Balboa Park boasts buildings beautiful enough to be considered attractions in themselves especially. Soak up the stunning setting while exploring the many museum's theaters gardens that call this 1,200-acre park home with its warm year-round.

The San Diego Zoo is located in the northwest corner of Balboa Park. This 100-acre establishment is one of the most famous zoos in the country and houses one of the largest collections of rare. So as you're walking through the park you get to really see the diverse changes of species and animals.

The zoo is absolutely family-friendly and features a really convenient transportation system and guided bus tour that takes you around the park. Not to mention they also have the Skyfari, which is a gondola that can take you from one end of the park to the other, This is great for us.

I think a lot of you will have to agree with me here that the USS Midway is probably the most impressive thing about San Diego. The Midway is an enormous ship that is filled with fascinating stories.

USS Midway museum one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in the world has been permanently moored at San Diego's Embarcadero since 2004. But it definitely saw a lot of action since then, No matter you like the military or not.

The largest museum dedicated to aircraft carriers and naval aviation anywhere more than 225,000 soldiers lived and served on board this historic ship.

This is a highly interactive museum, board this historic ship that gives you a chance to talk to veterans. To see planes in action, jump into a cockpit and just roam around the deck of the aircraft carrier. On the deck, you'll also hear directly from veterans just how planes took off and landed on a carrier like this.

While we drove to the next destination, we used our new Bluetooth device.. I purchase a car charger ( https://amzn.to/35odegM ) from LIHAN.

What's more annoying than a low battery while listening to music or watching Youtube on a cellphone? This car charger equipped with Quick Charge 3.0 and dual USB port, perfect for all your device charging needs.

But that’s not where the end of the feature, extension cigarette lighter adapter, allows me to power more devices with this car accessory.

Absolutely love this, I've got a black interior in the car and so this black is beautiful, it's got a very good tactile feel to it.

We came to San Diego Safari Park explore is one of the largest man-made safari parks in the world. With over 2600 animals, roaming 1,800 acres of authentic natural habitats nestled in the San Pasquale Valley. This gigantic Safari Park is a perfect escape where you can travel the world and see its most magnificent creatures all in a single day.

More than 2,600 animals to explore hunt and play in perfectly. Visitors can check out the stunning live shows, like the Cheetah Run or lemur walk, where you can get up close and personal to some inspiring wild creatures.

The park also boasts one of the world's largest veterinary hospitals and is committed to animal well-being. You can learn all about their conservation efforts in the dedicated Conservation.

San Diego Natural History Museum is my favorite place, It is the oldest scientific institution in Southern California. History of the region the museum was established in 1874 and its current Spanish Revival home from 1933 was given a renovation at the start of the new millennium.

There are four floors of exhibitions, a 3d theater showing films with a focus on the natural world and a research collection of nine million specimens. the fossil mysteries exhibition examines California's rich prehistory and it's packed with spectacular fossils models.

Interactive stations and murals visitors can venture through Southern California's varied ecosystems at the coast to cactus and study the state's relationship with h2o at the water a California story.

Another place that you can't miss is La Jolla Cove. This compact north-facing Cove in La Jolla is one of the most photographed pieces of the California coast.

And with good, the reason as the scenery is breathtaking with rocks containing caves that hem the beach all within six thousand acres the Cove is protected as part of a marine reserve and underwater. You can rent kayaks and venture into various caves along the shore as well as swim scuba dive among the sea kelp and Sun yourself, just like a seal.

La Jolla Cove is loved by both locals and visitors from around the world from its breathtaking sunsets and the majestic sea. It's great for a date night or, as a traveler, coming here for a stroll and really exploring the town.

That's why I love San Diego.

I hope you guys enjoyed it.

"Do you mind if you leave my home so I can poop?"

"Here are the coordinates to meet me in the middle of no where."

"Wow, you look so much bigger in your Instagram photos"

Dating on the road, or as I like to call it "Reverse-dating", is most definitely unlike any dating experience I have. I sometimes compare dating on the road to ABC's series the Bachelor, minus the glamorous living arrangements, the drama and the free booze.

How Most People Date: Two people meet and hit it off, they go on a date, and maybe even get to first base on night one (if they are lucky). They text back and forth, throw in a flirty text here and there and plan for the next time they are going to hangout. A week later they plan to hangout again. Excitement builds as they groom their privates, brush their teeth, and look their best with hopes to maybe make it a little further on this date. They both make sure they look their best and give a great impression when they meet up again. This routine of texting, making sure your pampered, and showing your best qualities goes on for several months, sometimes even years before a relationship progresses. Typically after several months to a year the couple will move in with each other, put down more guards, and start to show each other their true colors. If no one gets caught cheating first, months to years later the couple gets engaged, married, buys a house, has a kid, blah blah blah....ya'll know how the rest of the stereotypical American Dream pans out.

Dating on the Road: Nothing like mentioned above.

Now let's start from the beginning before I explain my definition of "Reversed dating"....

Flash back to May 7th 2018, the day I left NYC and hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime. When I left NYC, my co-pilot was my ex boyfriend, Phil, or Phil #1 (because things are going to get confusing here in a minute). I created what I thought would be our future, but turns out I was just creating my own future (which looking back on I am so happy I did). I thought we would travel the country together in our class C RV we completely re-did to be "our" tiny home on wheels for a few years before settling down in a state of our choice to build a tiny home. Three months on the road, 10,000 miles, and over $10,000 later he left me.....literally across the country!

Phil #1 never wanted to travel, but he was selfless enough to sell everything to his name to try a lifestyle that I wanted to live. After we hit the road, every other week we had to have the discussion of how unhappy he was and how he should go back home because it's unfair to have him doing something that is essentially making him resent me. For three months I rode an emotional roller coaster while also being on an adventure of a lifetime. Sometimes we would have a week of National Parks planned to visit, and after a day of emotions, I would be driving him to the nearest airport, skipping all the parks, and then turning around because he changed his mind and wants to stay. After reaching our last stop of our 3 month road trip across the USA, I had offered to give it all up for him. I offered to sell the RV, get an apartment, and save up and plan to travel part time on my own. I was willing to give it all up for him...he wasn't.

I am a strong believer in everything happens for a reason and exactly the way that it is supposed to. If I didn't meet him and build my future, I wouldn't have had the courage to sell everything to my name and hit the road in an 18 year old RV....so thank you for you that Phil #1. People come in and out of your life exactly when you need them to. Every person you connect with and every experience you encounter is all a chapter in your personal book of life.

When we got to Washington, I helped pack up my boyfriend of 1.5 years and fit what was left of his life in two suitcases. We went on an epic last date, I drove him to the airport, and I went to the Olympic Peninsula for the week to start my new chapter of life. I didn't cry, I didn't feel alone, I wasn't scared, and I wasn't confused. Instead, I was happy, excited, giddy, and happy to be starting this new chapter.

I will spare you the in-between details & direct you to my YouTube Channel to fill in the blanks. Long story short...Rented my RV, someone stole it and brought it to #BurningMan 2018, I lived in a tent for a month, and then I accidentally got a 2018 Ford Transit High Roof which brings us to September.

In September I met up with Wess Lewis from Transcend Existence and together we started working on the build for my new #tinyhomeonwheels. During this time I started to talk to Phil Gorman aka Phil 2.0 on Instagram (yep, the Universe has some fucked up sense of humor). Phil 2.0 is from Australia and when he flew into the United States last summer, he converted a 40ft School Bus in a week into a #skoolie to travel the country. Phil 2.0 is a carpenter and offered to help me with the rest of my conversion whenever I headed down the coast. He only had 9 days to help me before he flew back to Australia, so I spent two days driving from Washington to Northern California to meet up with him...in the middle of the woods with no service I must add. I am sure some of you are shaking your heads "this idiot met up with a rando in the middle of the woods is she TRYING to get kidnapped?!?!". We have been face-timing for a few weeks and I trusted my gut and heart that it would be OK to meet up with him alone....so I did.

Two days of driving and no shower, I pull up next to this 40 ft. blue #skoolie and out comes a half naked, tattooed Aussie with a Cowboy hat on and Cowboy boots. I attempt to make my hair look semi-presentable, wipe 2-day old coffee off my chin and get out of the van to introduce myself. After introducing ourselves he says, "Wow, you look so much bigger in your Instagram photos". I get this one pretty often, which continues to confuse the shit out of me because I am 5 foot short and weigh 110 lbs. We spend the day getting to know each other, cooking dinner, and sitting by the fire.

Here's where the "reverse dating" comes in....

From the day we met, we have spent EVERY single minute with each other for 9 days straight. Have you ever done that with someone? Could you imagine some dude you just start dating is like "Do you mind if you leave my home so I can poop?". I didn't even talk about poop with guys I have dated for years and here I am masking in a week worth of filth informing this half naked Aussie (He barely put clothes on all week I must add) that I too have to go take my morning poop after coffee. I laughed about how ironic and ass-backwards everything was happening. This is where being a person who just goes with the flow really comes in handy. Seven days later, seven days living with each other, and seven days of no showering, we finally had enough and I had a bright idea on how to fix it!

I put a beach towel on the floor, set up our soaps on the counter top, boiled hot water. put our wash clothes out, and stood in front of a man I have known for seven whole days butt naked. Together we stood there washing our bodies, staring at each other, and hysterical laughing about our current situation. Most definitely a first time for the both of us, and one we would always remember.

Phil came back to the states after 3 weeks in Australia and him and I have been traveling with each other ever since.

I guess I would have to say that dating someone ass-backwards, or "reverse dating" has been one of the most interesting, life and personal lessons I have ever had. Everything that I typically wouldn't do the first few months of dating someone, I did with Phil 2.0 in the first 9 days of knowing each other! Life on the road has a way of connecting people in such unique and raw way. There's nothing to hide and no mask to put on. Every day is a new, beautiful day filled with endless possibilities. When you find yourself stressing about things that are completely out of your control, you lose sight on the simplicity of life. Life on the road isn't just about the travel, that's just a bonus. Life on the road is about connecting with people in a way that you never thought could be possible. It's about seeing someone for exactly who they are, minus all the bullshit. It's about how deep you connect with others and the memories you make in your time together. There's no guarantee for tomorrow, so make the best out of each day!

Now how is it like ABC's series the Bachelor you may ask? As you know there is about 20 plus people fighting for someone's attention on one date. For the most part, the likelihood that they get to talk to the star of the show during cocktail hour is pretty slim. From Christmas to the end of April, Phil and I have spent over 180 days straight with over 15 other nomads in the desert. Now for simplicity reasons, let's pretend Phil is the bachelor. He's an Aussie so everyone wants his attention because well let's be straight forward, Australians are on the top of everyone's bucket list. I mean...he was on mine! For 180 days I got to not just connect and learn about my boyfriend, but I also got to connect on some of the deepest levels with 15 plus other nomads. While Phil was always telling some crazy story, or helping someone in camp with something, I was learning so much about him, myself, others, community, human connection, thankfulness, travel, and so much more. Isn't that how the show works? There's essentially one winner and the rest just leave with friends they made on the show and memories of a lifetime. Except I am the ultimate winner in this episode because I left with the Aussie and some incredible friends I will forever consider my chosen family.

The second reason it's like The #Bachelor is because of all the free (ish) travels. So now your not just dating someone, but you are also traveling the country with your friends and your other half..that's pretty cool not going to lie. No wonder everyone has their friends sign them up for the show. I would love to travel, make connections, date a hottie, and barely pay for any of it. Oh wait....I already am!

To wrap this #vanlife Dating on the Road up I would say that overall dating on the road has taught me about myself and human connection. I have learned patience, trust, gratitude, community, family, friendship, emotional trust, love and so much more. The breakup only made me stronger and the self growth that I have experienced this past year on the road will forever shape me into the person I am today and will continue to grow into. Just remember to trust the universe, even when they have a fucked-up sense of humor.

Stay Sexy & Keep Wandering (:

Art Van Grow

If you're interested in following our #adventures consider subscribing to my YouTube Channel and following along with us daily on #Instagram at @ArtVanGrow and @Bogan_Bus !

Photo Creds to @Roam4Wild on Instagram

Flash forward back to November 2018 when I bought a 2000 class C Shashta Sprite RV. I traveled 10,000 miles across the country in a 26 foot RV hoping that just because I re-built it like a van, that #RVlife could be like #vanlife. WRONG! RVs and vans are very different, and I learned that driving across the country. So I sold my RV, and got a van! I now have a 2018 Ford Transit High Roof 250 wheel base that I turned into my ultimate #adventure rig and #tiny home on wheels. A friend gave me some advice, in which I followed, and I highly recommend you follow too. Live in your van during your van #conversion. Trust me, it was one of the best things that I have done.

Crystal my ArtV #tinyhouseonwheels hand painted with art.

I made the decision to work on the van slowly while also living in it...and traveling too. I first met up with a friend up in Burlington, Washington named Wess from @TranscendExistence from YouTube and Instagram. He helped me start to build my dream home, or as I like to call it my tree house/rocket ship I always wanted and never got to have until now. I had a $5,000 #budget for the #DIYbuild, but I knew that if I found work on the road, I could work and eventually add more things to my van conversion as I travel and/or need things. I went with most of the appliances and products I had in my RV, so my Amazon wish list filled up pretty quick with minimal effort. After living in the RV, I knew what things worked and didn't work for me and my living space. That became my main goal in my van conversion. I wanted my van conversion to be simple, yet functional.

Crystal 2.0 my second #DIY #vanconversion

Here are the appliances and products that I used in my 2018 Ford Transit van conversion that helped me keep my total cost of conversion under $6,000.

I used spray foam on my ceiling, floors, walls, back doors, and the cab of the van. Spray foam acts as an insulator, a sound deadener, and prevents moisture. It's a one step process and I only used 2 boxes of Froth-Pak 200 Sealant.

#vanconversion

All the lumber I got at either Home Depot or Lowe's.

I knew I wanted a roof top deck on my van conversion, so I had a base welded on and built a roof top deck for 360 degrees of sunset views.

Me on my #rooftopdeck in #Sedona Arizona. This spot was beautiful, free, and you can spot UFOs here.

I wanted a sunroof over my bed to star gaze at night and wake up to the sun. I also wanted this to be how I access my deck. I went with a C.L Lawrence sunroof.

MaxAir fan & C.L. Lawrence sunroof

While were talking about the roof, here's the two 170 watt Boat Solar Panels I have up there which powers my entire house using the sun. To finish up the rest of my #solar setup, I also have a KRIËGER 3000 Watt 12V Dual 110V inverter. This inverter is made to run vacuums, refrigerators, power tools, and even a blender. I knew that I would have more than enough power to run whatever I needed on the road. With a 3000 Watt inverter I will have no problem charging my laptop or camera gear while also keeping my fridge constantly running. Attached to my amazing inverter are two Vmax 12v AGM Deep Cycle batteries. I am able to monitor all of my solar on my EPEVER MPPT Charge Controller. Which comes with an additional LED screen for displaying system information and working conditions. I love it because it has a smiley when your solar is doing great and a meh face when it is not. It also tells you how many watts of solar your bringing in from the panels in real time. You'll obviously need the rest of wiring and attachments to hook up your solar, but those are minor details. I am just here to share some awesome fairly inexpensive products for your van conversions to keep them under $6,000.

Also on my roof is my Maxx Air Delux Fan, which comes with 7 different speeds and a remote. I always forget to close the vent, and now I never need to worry with it's rain sensor.

Now on to the items in the van that are really important for me. I love to eat and I cook all my own meals, so I knew I didn't just want a fridge or cooler. That's why I went with a fridge/freezer combo. I love my Costway Compact Refrigerator and Freezer. I am able to store enough food in here to be off the grid for over 2 weeks. The best part is it barely draws any energy, and it's only 1 AMP to turn on. You also cannot beat the price tag on it.

Since were talking about food, my favorite topic if I am being honest, let's talk about the rest of my kitchen appliances. I really loved that I had both a stove and oven in my RV. I love to bake veggies and fish, so I wasn't sure if I wanted to give that up when I am trying to have everything I always wanted in my van conversion. When I found the Camp Chef Oven I knew that it was a must have. I not only now bake delicious meals in my oven in the van, but I also hand paint Toke & Tea mugs AKA Wake & Bake mugs and sell them to make money while #traveling. After I hand paint them they have to bake before sealing. I am able to bake over 20 mugs a month at 375 degrees, and endless dinners in my oven, and I only have to fill my propane tank every 2 months.

I am a #travelingartist and #bartender . I #handpaint Toke & Tea Mugs. They are available for sale on www.artvangrow.com

After I am done cooking an amazing meal and my stove cools down I slide it back under my bed so I have a better use of the space. I have my Camp Chef Oven on Firgelli Automations Full Extension Drawer Slides that can hold 400 pounds. The drawer for my clothes as well as my toilet also have these slides to hold the weight.

After dinner is done, I wash my dishes in my Lordear 15 x 16 10 inch deep sink which I absolutely love. I love the square finish and how I am able to wash pots & pans with my pull down sprayer kitchen faucet with two spray options, I had a small sink and a standard faucet in the RV and I strongly disliked how annoying it was to wash dishes. This sink and faucet was a must have for me and I am so grateful I love these products.

You are probably wondering now if I have hot water to wash all these dishes...the answer is yes! I have an Excel Vent Free Tankless water heater that I absolutely love. I had the same one in my RV and I used to have some of the best showers. I also recommended it to several friends converting #skoolies and #vans and they all seem to equally love it. Within 30 seconds the water is boiling hot. You can also adjust your max temperature and set it so it only goes so hot.

Now my floors were on the pricey side, but that's because I didn't want to have any issues with moisture. I decided to go with Life Proof Vinyl floors from Home Depot. I used two boxes and just made it!

Last on the list of big ticket items is my Olee Sleep 10 Inch Cool Memory Foam Mattress. This mattress is amazing and provides me with the best sleep of my life. I was so happy I decided to go with a 10 inch because for me a comfy bed was a must have. It's also great because you can cut the foam easily to make odd-shaped beds in your van conversion if you need to. I cut inches off of it to fit it in my desired space.

What your bedroom views look like when you live this incredible #vanlife .

So there you have it! There's all the big items I have in my 2018 Ford Transit van conversion that I feel helped in keeping my cost down. I love all of the products and appliances that I have chosen for my conversion and most important, I love that I was able to keep my total conversion cost below $6,000.

Here's a video of my van conversion to see how everything turned out:

Looking back on this video, I have added so much more to the van. That's the best part about living in your van while you build it. I add stuff as I need it and as I want it. I travel and work on it whenever I want. If you are considering van life or bus life or just any kind of life on the road, but your afraid that you can't afford it, you can! You can do conversions even cheaper than this if you want. It all comes down to your wants and needs and personal preferences for what works best for you. Feel free to email me at ArtVanGrow@gmail.com if you have further questions on my build or wanting an conversion done for yourself. For me, this is a dream come true and I am so grateful I sold everything to my name just to live this beautiful life. I have my ultimate adventure rig and the home I always wanted with the views I thought I would never afford for under $6,000!

Follow me as I travel around the United States in my 2018 #fordtransit #vanconversion on Instagram: @ArtVanGrow

Stay Sexy & Keep Wandering!

I let them pick the RV up the night before their rental so "they can hit the road early". I spent 2 ours walking through the RV with them and explaining how everything works. All 5 of them assured me that they will NOT bring it to Burning Man. I even had the owner of the property where it was park witness this.

They left with my RV and two days later I wake up with pictures of my RV at Burning Man with the park ranger taking a selfie and several friends who were also camped near by. I immediately contacted the company. The company told me they breached their contract, they should return immediately and they will be responsible for all damages done to the vehicle. Outdoorsy told me to bring it to a mechanic immediately and that I can hold their $500 security deposit and request additional money if the damages exceed this.

Eight days later, they finally answer me and were denying being at the Playa and Burning Man. I sent them the photos. I asked them to return my RV immediately and to be very careful with cleaning it. The exterior is hand painted and the Art was very expensive on the exterior. I also explained that nothing was prepped prior and that all of my things will now be ruined or damaged. They didn't return it when I asked. Instead, they returned is late and I missed my mechanical appointment and had to reschedule.

When they returned the RV they were rude. Three of us (including myself) recorded the 2 hour return of the RV. There was Playa dust (Alkaline dust) on everything. They removed the hand painted art on the exterior of the vehicle by scrubbing Alkaline with water, known to remove paint with a high pH. There was playa dust everywhere. In the vents, shower grout, corners of things, completely covering the undercarriage of the RV, in the engine, on my appliances, etc. When we went to check the mileage to write it on the contract, the check engine light was on and I asked them about it and they fought with me. I wrote all the damages I could visibly see on the contract and we BOTH signed off on it.

At first Outdoorsy told me they will have them pay for the damages and that I can hold onto their security deposit until I have it checked by a mechanic and all the quotes submitted for the damages. I sent Outdoorsy over 44 pictures time stamped from the date they returned it showing the damages, I also sent 19 videos of the damages also time stamped. I even sent them a copy of the contract again that we signed that stated the damages.

These are just a few of the 40 photos and 19 views I sent them of the damages

I drove to over 3 mechanics getting quotes for the damages and cleaning and to fix the paint. I paid for the mechanical diagnosis fee as well. There is over $1,300 in mechanical work that needs done and that doesn't include them fixing my radio they broke. There is over $1000 worth of cleaning that needs to be done and no cleaning company in the area will even clean an RV after Burning Man. I than took it to an RV body shop to have it quoted to paint it a solid color since they ruined my hand painted art which is also my business logo and a working maze for events I run and Tiny House Festivals I attend. They charge $33,000 just to paint it over. I emailed all of this to the company and request at least the mechanical bills, cleaning, and some money towards fixing the paint on the exterior.

Outdoorsy responds with telling me they are issuing the renters full security deposit back to them. I said absolutely not! Then the company offers me $250 for the damages. That doesn't even cover the diagnosis bill and the money they owed me for overages from the rental. I have been going back and forth with the company.

I did everything I can on my end and provided all of the documentation Outdoorsy told me too. I followed their procedures and read their articles pertaining to Burning Man.

Do not rent your RV with this company. They took over $300 out of my renting fee for "insurance" and then offer me $250 when the quoted bills and money they owe me reports to $36,000. This company is a fraud!

If you want to get scammed like I did and your home and tiny home on wheels ruined.. pick them...

I highly recommend not giving your business to this company!

Outdoorsy Articles on Burning Man:

https://www.outdoorsy.com/blog/rv-owners-need-know-renting-burning-man

https://www.outdoorsy.com/blog/playing-on-the-playa-what-to-expect-at-burning-man

Make sure to check my YouTube channel this week to see the full video showing the communication with Outdoorsy, all the video and photos and more!

After I bought my #RV, I saw kindness in those friends and family who have helped me pick up the pieces when everyone screwed me over in the beginning. Since I have left #NYC in May, I have never been more grateful on a daily basis. During my travels, my friends have opened their homes to me. They allowed me to shower, do laundry, and were always so accommodating. I am forever grateful for that and to them. I am also #grateful for the time & memories we shared while I was visiting.

A big shout out to the following rock stars that opened their homes to me during my travels:

#WV: Alyssa & Dave

#NC: Macee & Bryce, Alexa & Pete

#TX: Perl & JIM

#CO: Chris & Corey, Josh, Angela, Corey & Erin

#CA: Scott

#WA: Damon, Yolanda, Brianna & Sierra, Marty & Barb

When I first arrived in Washington, I was lost. The Larkin family helped me get acclimated and have opened their home and hearts to me. They are no longer just friends to me, they are family and I am forever grateful for all they have done for me. From allowing me to park my RV on their property, to lending me their car and tent, to allowing me to use their facilities in their home, and most importantly...for treating me like family and being there for me when life seemed to be chaotic and uneasy. I love you guys and I am forever grateful for your kindness and for loving me like your own.

Then comes Alex....

Alex is the rock star that helped me turn my RV into my home back in NYC. He is my #travel and #vanlife #guru and I am forever grateful for him and our friendship. Alex is always pushing me to be my very best and pushing me to try things outside of my comfort zone. I love meeting up with Alex here in Washington because he pushes me to hike, bike, and camp when no one else does. He pushes me to be a better person and to always love myself and others. Thank you for being an incredible friend and guru & I can't wait for our next van slumber party with my new little space ship on wheels!

Wess Lewis with Transcend Existence is a different kind of animal. He is one of the kindest, most talented people I know. His intentions and his art make me loss for words. He is always going the extra mile to help someone accomplish their dreams. He has opened my mind and soul up to kindness and appreciation and I am forever grateful for that. He is an extremely talented artist, dreamer, and maker and I am honored to be able to call him a friend. I cannot thank him more for helping me accomplish my dreams. He has been helping me build my new van & I couldn't be more grateful. I love picking his brain and working with such a talented, inspirational person. Thank you for all that you are doing for me and thank you for being an amazing friend!

Marty & Barb are the newest additions to my heart. Last week I met up with Wess and Lana (another awesome #skoolie chick and traveling tattoo artist) and I followed Wess up North to Marty & Barb's. They are having Wess complete their roof raise on their new bus that they will soon call home. I had no idea where I was going or what I was in for, but the #universe couldn't have worked anymore in my favor. Marty and Barb have some of the biggest hearts I know. They have set me up with tools, help, shelter, laundry, shower, and the message of community. They love the #minimalist lifestyle and they love #community. Barb cooks us delicious meals all day long and we sit around the fire and everyone eats, laughs, sings, and drinks together. I hope one day to live in a community like this and be surrounded by such amazing people all the time. I told them they are stuck with me now and I will always be back, they are now family. Everyone in their community have been nothing but kind and helpful. Scott is part of their extended family and adores Wess and I being here. He is always looking to help us with something, or fill our heads with beautiful positive things. He is so grateful to be a part of this, and I am beyond grateful to be here in this moment with all of these incredible people.

I am so happy and honored to be doing my new #vanbuid in my new #FordTansit high roof here with these incredible people! Thank you to everyone for all of the love and support you have given me I never felt more loved in my life until I hit the road in my #tinyhouseonwheels ! I am so excited to continue this life style and for the new friends I will encounter along the way!

Stay sexy & keep wandering (:

I will be posting a few times a week on my #YouTube channel about the build so make sure to check back weekly to stay updated!!

I spent 2 years researching #tinyhousemovement and I had endless notes on the cool, nifty ways to utilize such small space. I thought that I was ready for the big jump, or should I say tiny!

My top choice was A) Build a Tiny House on wheels & travel across the country.

Verdict: Tiny Houses are not aerodynamic enough for excessive traveling like I wanted to do.....NEXT!

B) Buy a van, do a van build.

Verdict: I originally had 10k budget & wasn't getting too far with that (at the time)..NEXT!

C) School bus conversion

Verdict: It's too long for the driveway & we don't have the skill set to build it (prior to help from some frands)...NEXT!

D) RV remodel - How hard can it be?

Verdict: A headache, never ending expense, approx 35k expense & 20 states later!

Side note: I am very grateful the RV got to experience this road trip with me & got me to WA safely!

I must have missed all of the blogs talking about how much upkeep it is to own an RV because straight out of the gate dollar bills were flying. If you read our previous blogs, we lost our tire the first 15 minutes in. After half way through the trip I averaged approx 3k in additional "RV expenses" from the time we left in May until end of June.

Some problems:

Gas is very expensive, you will use A LOT more than you budget for

Hills are hard, 35mph max speed in Colorado

75mph feels like flying

Smart cars will may you sway on the highway

Gravel roads sound like your house is about to fall apart..no big deal

Our fridge decided on it's own when it was going to shut off & make our food spoil

Trees will mess up your solar panels

Cool boondock spots? You can't fit

Scraping on shopping plaza driveways becomes normal behavior

P.S. Our back lights are champs!

Finding 2 spots in a row so you can pull in the tiny-ass parking lot & grocery stores

Finding somewhere to dump your tanks after realizing they are fill

Overflowing your pee in your compost toilet...same reasons as above

Having your RV smell like a zoo because of the above reasons

Whatever temp it is outside, it's also insides.

Views from my little door...complicated to capture

Living in an RV full time was a great 1st step to living a minimalist life style, even though it wasn't as glamorous as I had pictured when I pictured #vanlife . I was able to learn how little I need every day to live a normal life. I learned that I still have way too much in my tiny space! Being able to travel across the Country for me, was my major goal and I think that even though I wasn't in my top 3 choices for this change, I am very glad that the universe worked to conspire to get me where I am at today! My birthday is today & I am going into 26 with open arms and excited to see what the future holds for me.

Birthday goals: Sell the RV & get a small van to start my van build. Welp, I guess the cats out of the bag!

Missed my big announcement on YouTube and Instagram? Phil, my best friend and travel companion for the last 4 months, he went back to NYC. Traveling and living minimalist wasn't as easy for Phil as it was me, so moving back to the East coast is a good move for him at the moment. He is going to work his butt off & work on finding what truly makes him happy and I couldn't be more proud of him! I am so grateful I got to shack it up next to him & see this beautiful country all summer and I am excited to see how our paths cross in the future.

Stay sexy my friends(:

Once I knew I couldn't have the exterior of the #RV look like a #tinyhouse, I knew it was time to get creative. I have always been involved with art since I was a kid, and knowing that Phil also enjoys art made deciding to turn our home into moving art easy! I thought about painted it myself at first..realistically though? No chance in hell! We were both working full time during the entire six month #transformation and finding the time to also #paint the exterior seemed nearly impossible.

I had just recently re-kindled with an old friend of mine who had been working on an #art and #music collab with her brother. Her website is what really got my attention because it had so much detail and was so interactive! Chelsea Rae has always been a talented artist and musician, but after talking to her about her future goals with her project, we both instantly knew that working together was going to be amazing!

We spent a few months talking about ideas for the art..things that I liked, disliked, colors that I hated and style. Chelsea was able to come up with an amazing sketch on what our #home would eventually look like..and boy was she pretty on point! I wanted to support her music and art collab in anyway that I could because it was so inspiring to see the growth, as well as the potential it has to continuing growing. Why not put your best friend's art on your house and show everyone around the United States the talent that exists and is sometimes overlooked? Her band also plans to make some music for us to use in our videos (once we master this whole off-grid, tiny-living thing we will get better at videography I promise).

Check out their website at www.MercuryAndTheArchitects

If you really get into their website, it's pretty awesome! All of the art on the website is done by Chelsea herself and it's very interactive with the music. As you listen to the music you can crack codes and enter new portals of different art and music..GENIUS!

We wanted to bring that interactive art on the road with us, so Chelsea's design with the maze in the background is actually a game that can be played. On the side with our logo, Art Van Grow, the maze can be played starting with the little arrow and working your way from left to right. There is a code painted on the van which will help players figure out what the hidden message in the maze says. If you see us on the road make sure to play the maze and crack the code! We are working on getting a more interactive game on our websites so hand tight!

Art Van Grow and Mercury and the Architects together call the art project Live for the Adventure. Two weeks of non-stop painting and a few over-nights, Chelsea, Phil, and myself got everything done just in time for the event!

Live for the Adventure doesn't just start and stop here though...

I hosted an #event called Live for the Adventure right before we left for our trip which turned out to be a huge success! I reached out to local makers, artists, musicians, creators, and dreamers from the local area in Staten Island, #NewYork. Getting over twenty vendors on board for our event made me feel blessed to be surrounded by so many #talented people in one room...or brewery in our case. We are so grateful for all the support we got from everyone during our entire #transformation and event.

Please check out the Live for the Adventure tab on our website to see more photos and information about the event we hosted. We plan to add all of the vendors involved in the event and their website information on the tab, as well as others that we will support and meet during our travels.

We didn't stop at the art and music!

Mercury and the Architects isn't the only local talent we are bringing along with us on the trip. Ava Quinn's soap is the only homemade soap I have been using now for over two years and I couldn't survive on this adventure without it. I could spend hours talking about my best friends soap, but instead I will just give you a sample when I see you!

But wait there's more....

Finding a compost toilet wasn't easy...or cheap! Most compost toilets we researched we found on blogs, or other travel websites. We had planned to get Nature's Valley for about $1000 bucks. Upon walking around one of my favorite spaces in Staten Island, Maker's Space had exactly what we were looking for!

Jason from Toilet's for People was incredible and built us a custom-built compost toilet for our bathroom! He compared the top leading brand compost toilets, and using all the best features from each, he created Toilet's for People. I was grateful for this find, not only because I could support someone local and from my neighborhood, but mostly because I would have a functioning toilet that actually looks more like a real toilet verses the plastic compost toilets you usually see. The best part about the toilet..THE POTTY SQUATTY! If you don't know what that is, look it up because it will change the way you #poop forever. No complaints yet and we are two weeks in with it! Go check out his website to see the amazing things he does not only in the United States, but globally too!

We are officially two weeks into our adventure and have met some extraodinary local artists, musicians, makers, dreamers, adventurers, and everyone in-between! We are excited to make more lasting networks with everyone and hopefully have some cool stuff featured on the website!

Until next time my friends.

Stay Sexy!

Amanda Marie

First 15 minutes on the highway = “What the f*ck was that?!!”  In case you guys didn’t know, starting a cross country journey in a 18 year old #RV isn’t the greatest of ideas. Especially when you decide to do it with 13 year old dry rotted tires. Excited for the new beginnings, Amanda and I began our adventure. We fought through the issues with renovations, figured nothing could stop us.

Up until one of our tires treads just decided to bust off and leave us with a bare ticking time bomb.

Fast forward maybe half an hour after trying to figure out how to deal with this after somehow managing to play Frogger to the “safety” zone which includes just a lot of truckers blaring their horn so you can feel like even more of an asshole.

Anyway, as I said, 30 minutes after the “holy shit” moment, we travel at 10mph to a truck tire shop only 5 minutes away from our incident, which may I add was only an even clearer sign in my mind that this was supposed to happen when and where it happened.

… Hour and a half later… we leave with 6 new tires and drive what felt like 3 days to West Virginia. Which to me is literally a magical wonderland of make believe roads at 90 degree inclines. A real good test for our lovely Crystal. Despite the broken off gas cap which we replaced properly of course with quite a few layers of Gorilla Duct tape, and the busted wheel well that leads under our bench inside the “living room” after our fun tire experience, she did pretty decently going up and down hills.

Oh did I mention older RV’s are basically cardboard boxes and if a tree sneezed it sends us 5ft to sway-land? Driving the RV is exciting to say the least. If you like hot air balloons and roller coasters an RV is a perfect hybrid for those daring enough. The added benefit is going up any remote hill is the equivalent of the long buildup going up a roller coaster because we hit a top speed of 30mph (lowest to date is 10mph) and then usually get to top out at about 70 going down the hills. Doesn’t seem as exciting as some other roller coasters but still the same thrill of “holy shit I might die.”

Despite the stresses of actually getting too our destination, we also have the pleasure of rolling through some real bad storms and discovering that our home on wheels (despite 4 layers of flex seal) still leaks. The true adventure of it all is discovering how much more money and frustration our colorful little home will incur.

This trip so far has also taught me that education in any form is expensive, and boy am I being schooled.

HOWEVER, ignoring all my negativity towards just about everything so far, it’s still pretty cool. It’s hard to adjust, and yes it’s been difficult and will continue to be difficult, but somewhere deep down I know once we get this on lockdown then the fun will ensue. And we’re both hanging on tight and won’t give up. Just like owning any home I’m sure there will be many more ‘adventures’ and a lot more lessons to be learned. For now, both Amanda and I will continue to be as positive as possible(however, my positivity comes in sarcasm.)

Stay tuned for more exciting news on our whereabouts and our endeavors.

Oh also, we’ll be in the Colorado Tiny House Festival in June, from the 22nd-24th. So yeah, some pretty cool things happening. Don’t miss out!

I started thinking..I have officially wrote three mediocre blogs and no one even knows anything about me. Let me try to summarize, bullet point, and jot down some important things about me. Everyone needs to put a face to a name..or in this case a person to a blog? Yeah, not one of my bests. I am cheesy and dorky, so let's establish that right now early in the game.

Fun Facts:

Lived in over 20 dwellings and I am only 26. - Some people might say I am a gypsy.

I like to talk a lot, and I am pretty good at it. - Most of my jobs since I was twelve was customer service related or sales..talking always got me to the top. Talk more, know more, sell more, make more connections..if only all my old teachers could see me now. They used to always call home to tell my mom I couldn't shut up or I asked to many questions. Why must people try to put a limit on curiosity? RUDE.

Moving on...

Born/raised in NYC.

Lived in West Virginia for almost six years. LET'S GO MOUNTAINEERS!

6 years summed up in just a few photos so I don't have to be obnoxious.. however there are TONS of crazy, embarrassing photos of my friends and I all over Facebook if you are bored and want to take a peak.

Before you ask if I lived near any of those ridiculous TV shows..Buck Wild and the Wonderful Whites..or whatever it's called...I didn't. I went to one of the top Universities for Forensic Science. Yes, also at the time one of the top three party schools in the United States. [Insert hair flip emoji here]

WVU was thus far six of the best years of my life (to date).

I have grown as a person, as a friend, as an intellect, and everything in-between.

Being thrown six hours away from home with my Mom not there to do my laundry or cook for me. No city public transportation. You want to go to the mall in the evening? Good luck getting home. Hitch Hiking became fun.

At first it was a culture shock to me...than my stress subsided and I learned that people are so different based off where they are from. My entire perspective of life completely changed. I learned that people say "Hi" just because, and they hold the door open for you. People were just kinder than NYC. I learned that you can go outside for a hike through the wilderness and not breath in the Staten Island Dump. Instead you smell the fresh air, the trees, and yes kegs of beer.

West Virginia is where I grew up. West Virginia is where I began to live life for me. West Virginia was where I called home.

I am your modern day ball buster. I like to state the obvious, and I have an awful case of word vomit. If I offend anyone in any of my blogs (including you Grammer Natzi), I am truly sorry! I try to just shoot the truth, but life isn't perfect and not everyone is going to love me.

Itty Bitty Years...

When I was younger I went on a LOT of educational trips with my Grandma, Aunt Denny, and cousin Chris. I got to learn about the Native Americans and where Pocahontas was actually from. I got to throw the tea over the boat at the Boston Tea Party in Boston. When I was younger vacations seemed fun..education eh? Looking back now I am grateful for these educational travels with my family. It has been a huge reason for my adventurous side and exploration seeping under my skin.

Goodbye teens..Hello twenties.

At 20- got my passport and was ready to travel as much as I could. I was always a phenomenal saver. Bought my first computer at like eight (Gateway..yep 90's kid). Bought my first car at 17. Miss independent was basically my theme song. I was good at making sure I had enough money for bills and travel because traveling was what made me happy..we should all do what makes us happy am I right?

My Grandma had given us graduation money from High School before she passed away and as soon as I got my passport, I used the money to book my first trip. My first big trip was to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (that was incredible and a funny story which I will have to save for another time).

At 21-Just book a trip to London and Paris and I am stoked because they have been on my bucket list for years. Then I had my emergency surgery and the Doctor wasn't going to let me go but I begged and she made an exception. I am so glad that she did. I made some incredible friendships with people I am still friends with to date. I traveled with EF Ultimate Break and that program has definitely influenced my traveling streak for sure. Shortly after I got back, the girls I met on the trip and myself booked Spain. Unfortunately, that is when the Ebola breakout was really bad...being that I had just gotten my spleen removed my Doctor told me "no chance in hell am I allowing you to go there and put your life at risk". I didn't get to go, but Spain...I am coming for ya! Gave Cancun, Mexico a whirl for Spring Break...immediately regretted my decision. Cancun was not for me, however I plan to explore Mexico at a later date.

Throughout the years I have traveled to several states throughout the United States, but in my older age I appreciate the beauty and the culture more and more and become more aware of how different, yet the same this place we call Earth is.

At 22- Lived in Florida for 3 months. Hated the weather. Surrounded by drunk old people driving around 5 mph in their golf chart. Listening to the radio in the morning about Grandma Sherry and Grandpa Joe getting it on behind the movie theater in the Villages. I can't make this shit up. Perfect people watching place..if you are into that like me. Did a three month internship with Lake County Sheriff's Dept. and found my incredible tattoo artist Chad Santos at Mr. Williams Tattoo Co. in Tavares, FL. Now I travel to Florida a few times a year to see my friend Jess and get tattooed. Oh yeah..I go to Disney a lot too (hence the Disney sleeve I have).

At 23- Moved back to NYC. Devoted ALL of my time to working seventy hours a week, busting my ass, and paying off my student loans so I could be debt free. One year and nine months I was free and booked my next trip. Oh yeah, I got my first (one of now four) apartments in NYC paying overpriced rent for tiny-ass spaces. My research on Tiny Houses continue.

At 24- Met Phil. He was..well...the landlord's son. I had met him and knew it wasn't going to be a good idea. But, conversation was easy and we connected really fast. I wore my hair in a towel, no makeup and a hoodie and could just be myself and this dude was still really into me..weird. Phil is my best friend and I am so happy to be doing this trip with my best friend by my side. Let's save the sappy Phil stuff for a later date.

Went to Costa Rica for ten days with a group of forty four people and one incredible tour director Chris. I had met some extraordinary people on this trip and had the time of my life. I learned so much not just about Costa Rica, but people and culture and how different things are everywhere. I learned about how beautiful a place can be, yet destroyed so often by earthquakes. It was a trip that completely changed my life. I had made lasting friendships with friends from all over the world. Six of us even got matching tattoos. We all wrote a letter to "Pura Vida" and got it tattooed so no matter where we are around the world we are still being weirdos together. Sierra, Mariah, Martina, Emily, and Tayler were and are my people. We formed a friendship so quick that it's hard to describe into words. They are rooting for me every step of this process so far and I couldn't be more grateful for such great new friends..plus now we will all live closer on the West Coast!

Oh yeah..I went on a sister trip with my sister Nicole to California for the first time. San Diego and the LA area to be exact..San Diego is perfect. Weather is perfect. Food is delicious..I will be returning back one day for a full-on beach bum for a few months. Like they say..West Coast Best Coast? I guess I will make that decision for myself in a few months.

At 25- Bought an 2000 Shasta Sprite RV from a family in Connecticut and turned it into my home.

At 25 & 3/4- Six months of sweat, tears, and anxiety attacks..our 18-year-old RV is finally transformed into an ArtV Tiny House on wheels! Phil, myself, and all the incredible people who have helped us build the inside spent months trying to fix and build everything. The last two weeks were dedicated to the Art by the very talented and amazing Chelsea Rae from Mercury and the Architects. Her uncle was nice enough to let us park it in the shop and with Chelsea's design and help Phil, Chelsea, and myself was able to transform the exterior from an RV to an ArtV. I am so grateful to have such a talented and incredible best friend that loves this just as much as us.

It's not exactly the tiny house I at first had in mind and researched for years..but it's even better! I have my tiny house inside and one-of-a-kind art on the exterior. I am moving art. I love art..so this is perfect! My goal during this trip is not only to share my awesome ArtVenture across the United States on my first country trip with you....buttttt I will also be supporting local. Local businesses, makers, dreamers, artists, musicians, creators, and adventurers.

Anddddd going to all the really cool places around the United States that I have always wanted to go, but never had the chance to with my best friend by my side and my home wherever I park it.

That was still a lot and it was as brief as I can make my crazy, adventurous life..but there ya have it!

Stay Sexy my friends

We are so excited to share the progress and end results with all of y'all.

If you are in the NYC or NJ April 28th come down to Flagship Brewery 6-11pm & help us send off STATEN ISLAND'S VERY FIRST TINY HOUSE TOUR!

There will be 18 vendors selling homemade crafts and goods, local food and coffee, live local acoustic music, local craft beer, performance by Mercury and the Architects and of course the reveal of my ArtV Tiny House!

I can't repeat enough or express how grateful I am for everyone who has helped us with this project! Through the best and the worst times, together we have truly turned Crystal from a 3-star gal to a solid 8!

In the last few weeks we have truly made a difference in her re-model.

We had a very bad winter this year, which made it difficult to work on the RV as much and as quick as we had originally planned to. Even with the weather and the issues we ran into, we are very happy with the results.

We used heat guns, goo-gone and a good ol' scrapper to remove all of the old decals off the RV. She is already starting to look like a million bucks!

Bed frame built with access to everything underneath from a sliding door. I can also lift the plywood and access the water heater and fresh water tank etc from the top.

Mercury and the Architects came to help paint the inside. They are true rock stars and have been so supportive throughout this project. Art Van Grow and Mercury and the Architects cannot wait for everyone to see our collaborative project Live for the Adventure!

Since we're on the topic of awesome people, meet Alex! Alex has been living full time in his Sprinter Van for over 2 years! He did the conversion by himself and all while living in it. Check out his full conversion on his instagram @wjplata

Alex invited Phil, myself, and Crystal to his wood shop so we could work on the RV in a more opened space and with tools easily accessible. Alex taught me how to properly build and the basic skill set I would need to fix things if I come across future problems.

With Alex teaching me step by step, we built a closet on the loft to store our clothes. All of the bottom cabinets are on a track and move in order to access the space. Theres a bar on the left for our hanging clothes and a book shelf in the center.

With the help of Alex, I was able to build a lot of storage that could also serve more than one function

We also....

A hamper that I later made a seat cushion for so it could also be used as a bench.

A step with storage in it so I can get on my very very tall bed.

Two deep drawers under the bed for undies and socks.

Speaker boxes for our new speakers with mini shelves on top.

Molding everywhere! Molding is my new best friend and truly completed the look I had wanted in there.

Removed the old TV cabinet that no longer had any use. This was amazing and opened up the space so much. HGTV would be so proud of me for implementing an open concept floor plan haha.

Built USB outlet boxes.

Put Wayne's board and re-tiled the bathroom floor.

Boxed out the wires with a bookshelf.

Built cabinet doors for where we removed the microwave so we now have some storage for bathroom things.

I have officially gotten an A in Tiny House building 101 with Alex! Now on to the next trade.

We cannot thank Alex enough for all of his help! I am so grateful to you for teaching me the basic skills to build and helping to bring out my creative side into building. We are also so excited for our new friend Alex and to see him during our adventures on the West Coast. If you ever want to be inspired by a single conversation...have some 4:20 tea and chat it up with Alex! OR if you want to learn how to tiny build..Alex is looking into doing more work in the van life and tiny house community helping others like me get that much closer to hitting the road!

P.S. If you want to hear a bunch of knee-slapping caulk jokes..Alex is also your guy haha.

Meanwhile on the roof...

It's finally Mom's time to shine! My mom, cousin-in-law Bryan and myself made seat cushions for the bench. I got the fabric from Hobby Lobby and a scrap plywood and we made ourselves a little couch for my living room!

Crystal has literally done a 360 in just a few weeks and we couldn't have been happier with the results. She looks absolutely amazing! We never thought we would come to the day where she looks like she is almost complete.

Once again we couldn't have done any of this without all of the awesome people in our lives that have been inspired by what we are doing and had offered a helping hand. I hope that one day each and every one of you will be able to live the very best life that you want just like you helped us to create!

Phil and I started watching more videos on the movement. We researched Sprinter Van conversions and Skoolies as well and was so torn on what we wanted to do exactly. I knew I had to cross off an actual Tiny House for now (key word, for now) because it just wasn't going to be aerodynamic enough for the amount of traveling we wanted to do. At that point we decided we were going to go with whichever vehicle came our way first that seemed good enough.

One Tuesday morning we woke up and drove about two hours into Jersey to look at a Class C RV that had looked like it was in fantastic condition. When we showed up it was the complete opposite. The RV wouldn't start for several minutes, all the tires were balled and had rusted rims, and there was apparent water damage along EVERY seem of the RV. We both looked at each other and said NOPE. At this point we were thrilled we followed everyone's "used RV checklist" and noticed all the things. From here we drove another three hours into Connecticut to look at another RV. We were nervous because this one was significantly cheaper and we were scared what that would look like compared to the one we had just saw.

So we pulled up at a car wash to go see her and she looked GREAT...and I am not just saying that because she just got detailed, she looked to be in great condition. 2000 Shasta Sprite Class C RV 64k miles...we thought how could we beat that? We followed the same checklist, which this time failed us in the long run. She had no apparent water damage, tires looked great, breaks over 50%, brand new fuel pump, lower mileage, backup camera, Navi...we thought we hit the RV lottery! We told them we loved it, because we did...she seemed perfect enough to slap some paint on, change the floors, and go off-grid....so we thought.

My step dad took the ride with me home, while my mom was like our body guard driving behind us for the three hour drive back home through NYC. Beginning of the trip was easy peasy...it was when my GPS took me off the Downtown Brooklyn exit that started to make my heart race. My step dad and I was laughing as we drove through Downtown Brooklyn, a very expensive neighborhood to live in and very busy with roads that just are not ready for an 18 year old RV to pass on through. Everyone was staring and pointing which made us laugh harder. 

It's not everyday you see an RV driving through #NYC!

We got her back to Staten Island, NY successfully and parked her in my moms driveway for the remodel. Being that I am impatient, I immediately went to Home Depot and blew the remaining of my 9k budget on paint, floors, and other cosmetic nonsense. 

A few days after demo and the first two coats of paint on the cabinets, Phil found a crack in the wallpaper in the bedroom. Once Phil pulled back the wallpaper he immediately noticed that the walls were all wet. Slightly after, we discovered more water damage throughout the RV, mold growing in spots, and carpenter ants!

I was so sad inside because I wasn't too sure what to take away from this mess that we just got ourselves into. 

Seeing progress after being so down about all of the issues we encountered was truly inspiring in itself. She was slowly on the rise to the top and things were finally looking up for us!

Some other issues we encountered after fixing all the water damage:

-Propane tank leaking -Water tank corrosive -Awning broken

-Punctured plumbing & leaks -Ladder broken -Wiring draining battery

The Verdict: Kevin and Bernard, two of the most kind-hearted people I have ever met came and helped us with our new issues we were facing.

We couldn't be more grateful or all of the people that have taken their valuable time to help us build our tiny house! If it wasn't for all of your help we wouldn't be where we are today. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Phil & I have learned so much about basic building, plumbing, how to notice water damage, how not to pay people for jobs until they are completed, and most importantly how to take the absolute worst and turn it around into something amazing!

"Life's a slippery slope, regrets the steepest hill. Hope for the best, plan for the worst, and maybe wind up somewhere in the middle". -Bright Eyes

Thank you to everyone!