Venusian pasta and Martian waffles. How so easy it is to promote binary cognitive models that oppress entire populations using anachronistic ideologies, because there’s always the promise of perfection in many cults.
But life can be simpler. Then again I should never have need of living in my car, but 3,000,000+ Americans do?
After several bruising weeks for Speaker Mike Johnson, a soft-focus podcast interview alongside his wife, conducted by Katie Miller, the wife of Stephen Miller, one of President Trump’s top advisers, had all the ingredients for a flattering reset.
What emerged from the interview instead was a portrait of a Republican leader barely keeping his head above water in a job to which he does not appear particularly well suited, a conversation full of tragically revealing details packaged as rueful humor but with the biting sting of truth.
“We have this joke that I’m not really a speaker of the House,” Mr. Johnson, who represents Louisiana, said in the latest episode of “The Katie Miller Podcast.”
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When asked whether she would rather be late for church or late for a plane, Ms. Johnson (wife of Speaker Mike Johnson) agonized.
“That’s a hard question!” she said. “I don’t want to miss my flight but I don’t want to be late for church! That’s a tough one.”
Neither could name a single thing that they disagree about. They even agreed that men’s brains are like waffles — good at compartmentalizing — and women’s brains are like a mess of spaghetti and meatballs.
www.nytimes.com/...
Men Are Like Waffles—Women Are Like Spaghetti With the rerelease of their bestseller, we know that a new generation of marriages will once again be transformed into vital and lifelong relationships."
Lanny Flank’s van-living writings in DK and elsewhere have been inspirational if not instructive on my considering whether I would transition to an RV lifestyle. although it certainly be a radical life change with which I am not familiar.
My sense is less about than perhaps evading the continuing responsibilities for a house when there’s really no reason in a retirement I refuse to admit I have reached. OTOH I admit that homeowner responsibilities came to me late and despite my delusions about being ‘handy’, age does limit my abilities to do things like plumbing, electrical, and carpentry.
I am even considering trading my house for an RV because rebuilding my home would be now even more ridiculous now that I lack extended family. Although I could put a tiny house on my property and consider renovation of the existing house. Then there’s the definition of no fixed abode in being unhoused / homeless, I recall that when I lived in a warmer region that some homeless folks would visit their storage spaces as the anchor to their life on the street. Families and pets on the street make thinking about such a life more complex.
Being on the road might be better, even though I am less interested in travel than when I was younger. I also am not sure of the RV-park cultures. But I’ve begun looking and wanted to share my search here.
I anticipate a bunch of other issues aside from being more exposed to a world filled with a lot more crime and the usual haters. When RV owners complain about laws limiting private campground liability, the whole reason for being on the road seems less interesting. Then there’s just the infirmities preventing ‘independent’ living.
Best Books for Adjusting to RV Living
When transitioning to RV living, having the right resources can make the adjustment smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some highly recommended books that cater to various aspects of RV life, from practical tips to inspirational tales.
| Book Title |
Author |
Focus |
Description |
| A Beginner’s Guide to Living in an RV |
Alyssa Padgett |
Full-time RV living |
Provides essential insights for full-time RVers covering daily life, costs, and practical tips with a relatable, personal touch. |
| The RV Book |
Mark J. Polk |
Comprehensive RV maintenance and usage |
An all-in-one guide covering RV setup, maintenance, and the RV lifestyle based on years of experience. A must-read for both beginners and veterans. |
| Living the RV Life: Your Ultimate Guide to Life on the Road |
Marc and Julie Bennett |
Overall RV lifestyle and transition from traditional living |
Insightful guide blending practical information with inspirational content, ideal for anyone considering or starting the RV lifestyle. |
| RVing for Dummies |
Christopher Hodapp and Alice Von Kannon |
General overview of RVing |
Part of the popular “For Dummies” series, this book provides simple explanations for RV mechanics, living, and lifestyle adjustments. |
| Packing Light |
Allison Fallon |
Minimalist travel mindset |
Focuses on letting go of mental and physical baggage while on the road, encouraging a lighter emotional and physical load during your travels. |
| 50 States, 5,000 Ideas |
Joe Yogerst |
Travel inspiration |
Offers state-by-state travel ideas and RV-friendly destinations, great for planning adventures on the go. |
Key Titles Detailed
A Beginner’s Guide to Living in an RV
This book is essential for anyone serious about transitioning to full-time RV living, offering practical advice and sharing lessons learned from real experiences.
The RV Book
Mark Polk's comprehensive guide simplifies the complexities of RV ownership, making it a vital resource for new and seasoned RVers alike. It's filled with maintenance tips that ensure a smooth journey.
Living the RV Life
Written by full-time RVers, this book provides a mix of inspiration and practical tips. It's tailored for anyone from casual weekend travelers to those looking to embrace a full-time RV lifestyle.
RVing for Dummies
For those who prefer a straightforward approach to learning about RVs, this book covers all the basics without overwhelming detail, making it perfect for beginners.
Packing Light
This memoir highlights the importance of minimizing both physical and mental baggage. It’s about embracing simplicity on the road, making it a refreshing read for those seeking a lifestyle change.
I am, of course open to suggestions.