So here’s my new tiny home! I’m naming her Gratitude for many different reasons. She weighs 3100 lbs, is 21 feet long and tows like a dream.
I’m currently in St. Louis after spending a month at the Veteran’s Camp (which was about 20 miles from The House at Pooh Corner.) Sifting and sorting through my things, it was a good month of being organized, disorganized, organized, disorganized, organized, disorganized. Back and forth to the cities, back and forth to IKEA and back and forth to The Container Store. I cried a thousand tears saying a thousand goodbyes and came into St. Louis in a complete tailspin. And just in time for tornado season.
Three days of storms, tornados and flooding through St. Louis and the Heartland and more on it’s way.
Good timing.
The good news is my trailer has no leaks and is incredibly solid in a storm. The other good news is I’m heavily insured. The not-so-good news is that the weather is basically going to dictate everything I do from here on out. I’ll get used to it I’m sure, and in fact, am already settling into it. So far I have to say I am loving what I am doing. I love to drive and have such a feeling of freedom when I get out on the road. Tiny house living suits me well and this trailer is the perfect size for me. My first camping experience was at the Vet’s Camp in MN, which was an exhaustingly fun experience and my second here in St Louis is shaping up pretty fine too.
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The trailer I have is a Little Guy Max from Liberty Outdoors. It has a ton of storage space, a 2 burner stove, fridge, and wet bath (toilet/shower.) The windows were the big selling point for me—lot’s of fresh air and tons of privacy. I feel totally safe and really secure in her and she already feels like home. I am finding that everything I do takes about three times as long as it used to—showering, cooking, getting dressed, working. Sometimes because of the weather, sometimes because I have to move four things out of the way to get to the item I am wanting. It’s definitely a practice in mindfulness and being present.
My friend reminded me of the Zen quote; Chop Wood Carry Water. And does that ever fit me now.
Eating healthy and doing yoga are two of my priorities on the road and so far I’ve found two really great studios. Yoga Forest in Forest Lake, MN., had such a great community vibe and they welcomed me with open arms the moment I walked in the door. As we were in Warrior Two pose on the last class I would attend there, Suzanne, my teacher, mentioned my name and said, and I’m paraphrasing here, “Think about what being a warrior means to you. This strong and sure position we keep within ourselves. And of Lorri, being a warrior on her journey traveling the country.” Warrior Two pose is to develop peace in the uncomfortable moments of our lives. To stand in difficulty and be okay with it. To be strong yet still. I thought about how I got to this moment of my life, all the struggles Klink and I went through—together and apart—and how they influenced this decision. I had so much gratitude in my heart I thought it would burst.
After I explore St. Louis for a bit, I’m heading to Oceanside California via Route 66 to scatter my husbands ashes on the beach. It should take me about 3 months to get there. Meramac Caverns, Lake of The Ozarks, Cadillac Ranch, Painted Desert, Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu and Idyllwild are just a few of my stops. Plus, of course, all the obscure Route 66 Americana along the way. After that… I have no idea. Maybe head north to visit some friends in Portland and Bend, OR.
I’ll be writing stories about my travels and also blogging about health and wellness related topics as I am a Health Coach after all!
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Breathe Deep and Live Well,
“Everyone has an opinion on how others should live their lives- but the only opinion that counts is our own. We face the benefits or consequences of our decisions. And although some may be a part of those choices – the decision to join us is ultimately up to them.”
16 Comments
Hello Lorri, I love your story it is so inspiring! I wish I had met you when you visited the Yoga Forest in Forest Lake! I was in Europe for 2 months and now am back at home and at the studio. I wish you amazing travels. My best, Chris Coleman, Owner -Yoga Forest yoga studio
Hi there! I wish we would’ve met as well! I really loved spending time at the studio. Absolutely adored Suzanne and Joyce. I felt so at home and loved there. Good yoga and great vibes!! I stop in for a class when Im back in the area!
Hi Lorri- it’s been a really moving experience to read your blog and follow this amazing journey . From all the years I knew you at Hair’s to You I always knew you had this in you and nothing was going to stop you. Keep following your heart and I truly know Klink is on this journey with you.
By the way, you express yourself so beautifully! Never stop writing- you have a gift!
Laurie!!! So good to hear from you! I miss you! Thank you for the kind words my friend:) I am doing what I love and couldn’t be happier. And yes – Klink is always with me! Hello to Amanda too! XXOO
It was wonderful to meet you Lorri. I would love to get updates on your adventures. I admire you for grabbing life and running with it. God bless you with safe travels and abounding joys on the road as you travel. Jacque Walton from MajesticOaks campground.
Thanks Jacque! Super nice to meet you as well! I had such a wonderful stay there. Such a beautiful campground! XXOO
Lorri, did I tell you that my mom’s name is Lori! Only 1r in hers! I’m just messing cuz I want to see pictures of the inside of your tiny home! Please and thanks!
Hi Cahler! You did not tell me that:) If you are on your phone, just scroll about 1/3 of the way down and there is a slideshow. Enjoy!
Kudos to you on your enlightened journey. It sounds exciting and scary in just the right measures. Much love
Thanks friend! XXOO
If anyone can do this it’s you Lorri….happy trails!
Ahhhh….thank you Dawn! I love you and miss you! Hugs to you and Jerry! XXOO
Well, I’m glad you made it through all the bad weather and your safe.
But your a strong Girl. You can make it through anything you put your mind to. Well I miss you but you will be on my e-mail every month letting me know how you are doing and you always text me every now and then letting me know what your up too. You Go do what you do best helping people,Take care.
Thanks Bartman!!! And you can make it through anything you want to as well! I am glad we are friends:) I will always stay in touch!
Lorri…SO good to “see” you! I love your journey thus far and I’m looking forward to watching you learn and stretch and grow…through yoga, through grief, through life. Be safe out there. We’ll keep the kettle on!
Thanks Ginny!!! Hope to meet up with you again soon! Love that we’ll be working together for Girl Camper!