Today I got up early and worked, wherein bad things happened I don’t want to discuss publicly. (I’m ok).
Afterwards I decided to be productive. I got my first professional haircut since Columbus day weekend, 2003. I remember this because it was my wedding and I decided I should splurge rather than cut it myself. I wasn’t thrilled with the cut and I went back to cutting it myself. But since I didn’t bring clippers in the RV, and I figured it would be good to have a fresh cut before the conference I’m attending next week. This one is better than the last one, despite there being less up there to work with.
Next I went to a Sprinter repair shop to have them check out my brakes and the front end. I generally do my own work in vehicles, but I’m not really a truck expert and wanted someone to check out some noises. He said the brakes are just squealing because of dust (wonder how THAT could have happened?) And they have plenty of life left. He said all I need is four tires, and the other rattling should go away. I knew the tires weren’t great when I bought it, and I’ve put something like twelve thousand miles on them, so it’s expected. Often RV tires age out before they wear out. The DOT code on the tires was 1915 meaning week 19 of 2015 so I resolved to wear them out. Success! I didn’t take the place up on the offer to replace them since I want to shop around, but I’m happy with the result. It’s good to know there’s nothing seriously dangerous going on.
Next I went to a laundromat and changed into hiking pants and a PJ shirt so I could wash everything I care about. I washed sheets and towels too, and when I was done remaking the bed I figured I should sweep to keep the bed clean. I wonder where all that dust and sand came from?
Oh right, insane death valley sand storm. They should put a warning label on that place.
Since I made an RV lunch of chorizo tacos with nothing else but cheese on them I decided I should have a healthier dinner. I found a vegan Egyptian place nearby, and while I’m neither I’m glad I chose it because it was delicious. I had lentil “soup” which was really a paste, with lightly fried onion strings on top and steaming fresh bread. Then I had a cauliflower shawarma and a drink called Lemon Na’na. It’s basically frozen lemonade and mint, and it is yummy. Pro tip: seems like it would be great if you put booze in it. I didn’t.
I was feeling apprehensive about going out in my slummy clothes, so I picked a place where takeout looked like a good choice. But the owner, who helped me through the menu choices with an easy smile and soothing voice told me I shouldn’t take it to go because how would she know if I liked it? I liked it. A lot. She pumped her fist in celebration. Shout out to the place, called POTs, which everyone should visit, whether or not you are vegan. Support local businesses that make amazing things.
Afterwards I moved to a street in a neighborhood with big houses and wide streets. This one is back at the back of the neighborhood by an open lot with nothing but a big antenna in it, so I figure I won’t get hassled.
I use Google maps satellite view to pick parking spots. The one I used the last two nights was really good but it was a bit far away and I think it’s best to avoid patterns. Cities are pretty hostile to RVs and expect you to be in an RV park. I have no need for those usually. I prefer a quiet street. I only need one more night in the city and then I plan to go somewhere for the weekend. I’m not sure where yet but I’ll figure it out tomorrow.
I’m going to wrap this up, as I’m getting sleepy even though it’s early.
H