I had this idea before we moved to Maine. We were going to try to build a traveling Love Mobile where I could sell my books, and have one of the animals with me to share healing and love. But we moved to Maine and it was put away in my heart.
Ideas have a way of being birthed when they are truly ready. And
looking back, it was not the right time. Now in Maine since 2016, we are
a non profit sanctuary taking in elder/needy animals [and some young,
crazy ones] but we also share the animals on visits to elder people's
homes. Harry the llama is one of our main love ambassadors, but there
are others.
But I still make my living as an artist/writer [since 1996]. Since
Apifera Farm became a non profit, my art has merged with the farm and
animals even more. I sell my art and books online globally through my online shop , and through Sundance.
The Love Mobile, I've been calling her Lovey at this point, will allow me to get my art/books, and the animals
out to a wider audience in the wonderful region we now live, Mid Coast
Maine. It will expand my creative ideas-the mobile comes with two fold
up windows, perfect for pop up shops. I have so many ideas-perhaps
puppet shows!
Over the years, I've searched for the right vintage trailer. Most
needed tons of work, and none are cheap. Most were in southern states.
And they were not the right weight or size. Building our own was
something we considered. Martyn has enough on his plate, and to keep a
trailer vintage, lightweight, electrified and more was not something we
could do.
When I found the Happier Camper
company I was thrilled. Finally! Just what I wanted. Vintage looking,
but safe, and incredibly adaptable to my whims. It is a very lightweight
double wrapped fiberglass trailer, complete with heat, and 120 and 220
electricity. It is designed in a modular system, so seats [with storage]
can be removed to use outside, or moved around. The entire inside can
be hosed down and has a drain. It comes with electric brake and
breakaway safety measures [many small trailers don't. It is the only
small trailer with a back large hatch-perfect for llamas, goats,
Goofballs, and a pop up shop. {I will post the specs soon in an update].
This is a leap forward for me-a way to continue to blend my work
with animals, art, writing, creation and people. It's like the next
chapter. In some ways, it might be my final chapter as I enter my mid
60's.
The entire package costs $34,000. It is an investment. If you have
looked at any vintage trailers you know the price. So this one is well
worth it for me and my business-it is SAFE, completely road ready, and
adorable.
And while this Love Mobile is dual purpose [selling my art, and
also promoting and sharing our non profit healing animals] I will be
paying for it out of my art business. It is a huge step to do this-but I
know this is a good step [just like I knew moving from Oregon to Maine
was what we had to do].
I'm so excited to get her this
late fall and to see all the travels and experiences we will have. It
has ignited a flame inside of me!
