I have taken an apartment for at least 2026 for the reasons given here. TL;DR – V.A. medical stuff, van maintenance and van build 2.0.
plans (will evolve over time)
other than the big plans mentioned in the blog post above
- continue modding van subs on reddit and lemmy, if they still want me
- continue hosting and updating the RVwiki project
- buy nothing for the apartment that wouldn’t go back on the road with me later or be donated (nothing new goes in the van)
- keep the camper in a ready state where it can be used for errands and also quick bugout. This region of Texas really doesn’t have natural disasters, but Eagle Scouts die hard and all that.
the apartment
internet
The existing gear described in this blog post is still in use. My internet connection continues to live in the van and is repeated by the Opal router inside the apartment. As long as it suffices I’d prefer not to replace the connection with something more expensive.
the laptop
The old laptop is hooked up to an external monitor and is now also acting as a front end for MythTV. I’ve ordered a 16GB stick of RAM for it. This will take it to 24GB if the sticks play nicely and to 16GB if I can only use the new stick.
MythTV
Since I’ll be in one spot for a year I’ll probably spring for a Schedules Direct sub.
apartment-specific purchases
These will be donated upon departure
- $20 thrift store microwave
- $20 26” thrift store monitor mentioned above
- $12 popcorn popper with stirbar. Popcorn is my favorite snack.
cancellations
- planet fitness
- if I’m back on the road for 2027 I’ll keep escapees. Otherwise I’m canceling that, too.
wins
The scooter absolutely shines in this scenario; I can use it as as primary transportation around Canutillo and into west El Paso. The van will get tasked when weather is unpleasant, or more cargo/dog carrying required.
60mpg vs 18mpg? Yes, please.
There is also a quickie mart within walking distance of the house.