Jury Duty

I checked my mail today and low and behold I have a jury duty summons for next month. I have to tell you being homeless does not negate from you duties. So I called the county it was issued from and they tell me I have to show them proof of no residence? what?

I can show them or have a letter drafted on my "last" time at a residence. How exactly do I show proof of "no residence?" Do I drive up and open the back of my van and say, "hey take a peek" there it is-proof. This is the same government who cannot provide any type of subsidized income for me due to the fact "I have no residence." I found out P.O. boxes don't qualify. Actually that last comment was just me being sarcastic in written format.

I decide to get a room on Sunday though. I need to do some business stuff and my homework. I can do my homework at the library or Starbucks but get more done when I am in my own space.

Fridays Song- TLC Waterfalls

I love this song. I miss the original TLC group they produced some good music in the 90's.

Making the decision to go back to school

I previously mentioned making a decision to go back to school. This was not and easy decision because        I had a job and did not know how I would handle a job and school. I was blessed with the best counselor ever. She was able to guide me in my career path and explain all the steps that being a "re-entry" student involved.

There was so much new terminology that I had to learn. The hardest thing was being in a classroom with kids that just left high school. At first this was intimidating to me but I soon found out that I catch on things pretty fast and as the first semester came to an end I was very confident in my decision and my school performance. When I made the Deans List that really boosted my confidence

School has been a positive distraction in my life. It has given me something to focus on. My major is communication and my minor is early childhood education. I love kids and the teaching environment. I had to skip one semester due to health issues but I am back on track. I have been attending my local community college now for 2 years. My graduation date was supposed to be last year but I am trying to work more to create more savings.
The video below is about Columbia State Universities adult re-entry program. There are many adult students who don't have a counselor as wonderful as mine and transition has been slow for some.

sick

Well, it has been awhile so I knew it would happen. I am sick. Apparently I forgot to close the front window the car and woke up this morning with my ears and throat hurting. I try to cover my head at night but I didn't put my second blanket over me. I am just going to take some cold medicine an and call it a day.

I am also going to pay for my phone (cell) service to be turned on. I do need it but I have to prioritize my spending. This week is my biggest pay check week so I did to be frugal next week on the spending. I stayed for one day last week but I can't afford to do that weekly. The good news is its Friday and God is good I have seen another week. Stay positive everyone, life is truly what you make it.

Deleted my facebook

my grandbaby

I deleted my Facebook yesterday. The problem with being a private person is that is contradictory when you put yourself out there on Facebook or any social site. This blog included I guess. I wasn't raised in a social media era so a lot of this stuff is fairly new to me. I like to write so  I will continue the blogging.

I got a little depressed about having to delete my Facebook account  because that is one way I connect with my kids and granddaughter. Then the realization hit me; if they can only contact me through Facebook or any other social media then maybe the issue of communication needs to be addressed.

I am trying to file my income tax so I can use the money to see my granddaughter. I want to be a part of her life but until I have a place to call "home" I don't see a full bonding being done. I want to be able to not only visit her but actually have her visit me too.

      grandparents song

What a day

Wow, could my day get any worse. So I went to the gym where I usually shower and they had some problems and were closed until 12 noon. The only problem with that was I had to be at work around that time. So I am literally driving around trying to find a place to shower.

crazy day

I ended up just doing that bird bath thing at my local library. So I just sighed and went on to work. Then I get in trouble for some B.S. and get a corrective action. My boss and I get into a loud discussion on why I didn't feel it was merited. Now my "boss" is in her 30's and I am in my 50's so when she kept saying, "dude calm down." I lost it.

Okay enough of that rant. On a positive note I am going to see about a room tomorrow. I really am fearful of doing this with folks I don't know but the people I thought I knew turned out to be real shady. Trying to put Skype on my computer to see my granddaughter. I am not having too much luck because it is a Linux system. Tempted to load windows 7 on it just to see her. I prefer Linux though.

I usually write at any available Starbucks and the one I am typing from today had some pretty interesting things happen. Makes me want to start a blog about my Starbucks adventures.  A young guy that frequents this particular Starbucks made this huge sign and bought a dozen roses to ask a girl in his class (who works at the sandwich shop next door) out to his prom.

It really was cool. He had some of the staff members who were off duty to follow him over to the sandwich shop to pop the question. I really wanted to go and be nosey, but my life is its own drama so I just waited until they got back. Apparently this girl is a real douche. She made the guy get down on his knees and ask her. Then she told him not enough folks came in to witness -so the answer is no.

This guy must really wanted to ask her out because he actually tried to actively round up more people to go back and ask her. This time she said yes. Things sure have changed since I was a kid.
Well tired so off to the car.

Never give up

This song has carried me through many trials and tribulations in my life

 B55GHN88D64S

When you have stumbling blocks in life you have to ask for the strength to climb and find your way around them.

My search continues

Last week a friend of mine gave my information to a someone who was seeking to rent a room in their home. I have gone through this several times and it seems it doesn't work out for me. The first time I rented a room in someone's home they took my money but did not pay their mortgage. Needless to say I came home one day and their was a notice on the door by the Sheriff's office giving me 30 days to vacate the premises.

I cannot understand people who sublet rooms in their homes and know their  house is in foreclosure and they do not disclose this information. That is not and honest practice. I don't think people are concerned about being honest though when they are saving their own butts.

Being homeless is a lonely venture. This is the first time in almost two years I have made this public. It is all so strange to me to share so much of myself. Growing up I was an extremely private person. I wasn't shy but I told very little about myself until I got to know you.

I am doing this because writing stops my depression. I have all these thoughts in my head and putting it down on paper is very therapeutic for me.

Tips for living in a car

The key thing to living in your vehicle is not letting anyone know that is your place of resident. That is sometimes a thing easier said than done. I have comprised 10 short tips to help anyone who is new to this situation.


1. The most important thing is to make sure your vehicle is running. It is not good to stay in a car that is in a vacant lot or not serviceable. I have an old vehicle (1991 Toyota Previa), but I try to do occasional upkeeps on it. Since I try not to stay one spot for too long, maintenance is an important factor

2. Before you start living in the car there are some essential things you need to purchase to make this a successful venture. Remember you are not trying to form a permanent residence but you are trying to be comfortable. It is important to get a pillow, blankets, a sunshade, car cover (if you can afford one), medical kit, battery charger, make sure spare tire is inflated and in good condition, 

I found a cooler is a very important item to have. Luckily I have a large 10 -seater vehicle but for a smaller car you can keep the cooler in the trunk. When I am at work I freeze several water bottles and use them to keep the food cool. I forgot I could have bought a freeze pack and used that. They are very affordable at a Sports Authority or camping store.

My windows are slightly tinted, which is excellent for cars driving by my parked vehicle at night. It is an expensive venue but now they have these films you can peel and stick you. It is important to remember to see how dark you can have your vehicle. Some states do have certain requirements. 

This next suggestion is not one I like to think about but it is definitely something I needed. It is so important to get a Porta-Potty. The going rate is less than $100.00. They have them used on Craigslist too.  Well, sadly I didn't have one at the beginning of this journey and let's just say I missed it. If you can't afford one at Wal-Mart or your local retail store then get a wide mouth bottle (for ladies) or a long bottle neck bottle for me. Sometimes I visit hotels and act like I am inquiring about a room and use their facilities if I have to defecate. I know gross but hey, it has to come out better in their toilet then my vehicle.  

3.  This leads me to another important factor-where you park your vehicle. I try to avoid well-lit areas. The main problem is they showcase you entering and exiting your car. I once parked in a 24-hour shopping center. I parked next to employees in the center. Since many of them worked 8-hour shifts no one noticed my vehicle parked there all night. 

In urban or city areas park in locations without sidewalks or building facing your car. Sometimes camp sites let you stay overnight or couple of nights for a fee.  If you park in the woods make sure it is a secluded area where traffic is sparse. Some stores like Target, Wal-Mart and K-Mart allow overnight stays if you contact the management.  The good thing is they have restrooms. Try to arrive at all destinations late at night and leave early morning. I try to leave my sleeping locations before sunrise.    

4. If you do have the extra money investment in a gym is a life saver. This not only gives you the means to cleanse yourself, but it also allows you to have designated restroom location. I find that it helps keep me sane too. The worst thing you can do if you are homeless and working is to look homeless. Grooming is an important part of normalcy.  If you do get a gym memberships please invest in some flip-flops or shower shoes. The gym I use also provides free shampoo and conditioner. It also has a snack area. 

Another option is your local church. A great place for temporary lodging, shower and meal. Some churches even have designated people in their congregation that will give you a chance to shower at their homes. Of course this might mean you risk being converted into that religion, but you can go along with it you find your own temporary lodging.

I have also learned to carry FDS personal fresh wipes with me. This is your typical "hoe" shower but it does work on days that either your regular bathing facility is closed (mostly holidays), or you have to change quickly for work. College campuses also are a good source of a free shower. Some P.E. courses are very cheap. You can take a class and no one checks your identification when you use their shower. I have done this on more than one occasion. It also allowed me to stay fit and I used their free Wi-Fi to watch movies. So entertainment, exercise and a learning environment all in one.

5.  Keep air freshener in the car. A laundry bag (if you have room a basket) is also a handy thing to have. I also bought some arm and hammer baking soda and left the box open under the seat. Not only is it great at absorbing odors it is good if you have an upset stomach too.

6. Keep lots of water on hand. Being hydrated is a healthy and good thing. Sadly I can't use water after a certain period of time in the night, but I make sure I hydrated during the day.

7. Move around cautiously in your vehicle. You don't want to be rocking and knocking about. This not only draws attention by passersby but your local law enforcement might notice as well. I have surely had my share of close calls so I know the importance of staying quiet and discreet.

8. Keep your important documents safe. If you have a bank looks into a safe deposit box. If you can't afford one, leave important paperwork with a trusted friend or in a bus station or train station locker. Try to minimize the amount of things in your car. Sadly people do take cars, no matter what the condition. If you have nowhere else to keep important papers then buy a lockbox (small one) and put it in the trunk or under a seat at the back of the vehicle. 

9. If you have to travel, see if a friend or family member is willing to let you leave your vehicle with them. I leave my car at the airport. The cost is $10 dollars -a-day but The security is really good at most international airports. I also make sure nothing is showing through my windows.

10. The last and most important thing is know that "This too shall pass." You are only in a temporary situation and you should only use your vehicle for sleeping.  Spend as less time in the car as possible. When I am not working I am either at the library, movies, gym or eatery. I remain positive by saving for an apartment and thankful I do have a shelter over my head. Good luck and always know that "hope" is not just a 4-letter word.

God's mercies

Since I have been in this situation I have never thought why me. I know I am very lucky because I happen to have shelter at night. Some in my similar situation are not that lucky. I guess the hardest thing is always trying to find somewhere to park the vehicle. That can get tedious at times.

I am not a very religious person but I know that through God all is possible. We however have to take the first steps to make that happen. Writing this blog is my first step.

It was not always like this

I never knew that divorce and losing a home could be so traumatic. 

When I was a young girl I always imagined this big fairy tale wedding, where I would be swept off my feet by my own prince charming. As you can tell I was really into fairy tales.

In 2000, nineteen years later he went to an assignment to Korea and everything changed. By then we had 3 beautiful children together but I think the freedom that lifestyle afforded him was too strong a temptation.

In 2002 he came back and asked for a divorce. I was devastated. I had also found out I had esophageal cancer. I had to stop working for awhile, unemployment was not enough to pay for the home. I lost my home, my marriage in the same year. This blog is a healing forum for me. I am now living  in a car and this blog chronicles my past, present and future challenges.

(this is where I sometimes park my vehicle)