Meet Gracie, a 66-year-old adventurer who introduces her van, “Fanny May,” with the enthusiasm of a big kid reveling in the freedom and fun of van life.
Gracie’s vibrant spirit shines through as she shares the ins and outs of her mobile home, highlighting how it perfectly balances practicality and personal charm.
From the clever use of space to the eclectic decorations, Fanny May is a true reflection of Gracie’s unique personality and her zest for life on the road.
The kitchen area in Fanny May is a marvel of compact efficiency and space-saving.
It features a Butcher Block countertop that includes an extension, providing additional prep space when needed.
A single burner cook stove and a deep sink ensure that Gracie can whip up her meals comfortably.
The kitchen boasts ample storage for all her utensils, pots, and pans, neatly organized for easy access.
An on-demand hot water heater and a water filtration system add to the convenience, ensuring that Gracie has all the comforts of a traditional kitchen while on the move.
Moving into the living area, Gracie shows off a fridge that operates on both AC and DC power, making it ideal for long-term boondocking.
The fridge provides sufficient space for storing food, making it easy for Gracie to stock up and stay off-grid for extended periods.
Additional storage in the living area accommodates toiletries, electronics, and pantry items.
The space is decorated with Moroccan lights and stained glass windows, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance that makes Fanny May feel like a true home.
Fanny May also features a dedicated work and relaxation space.
Gracie has a pull-out desk area perfect for working on her laptop, as well as a comfortable spot to enjoy her morning coffee.
Clothes are stored efficiently in large plastic bags and drawers, while a step that doubles as dirty laundry storage and a closet for dresses and other clothing keeps everything organized.
This setup ensures that Gracie has a functional and tidy space to work, relax, and keep her belongings in order.
Personal touches are evident throughout Fanny May, reflecting Gracie’s eclectic style and making the van feel bright and cheery.
Decorations give the space the charm of a 14-year-old’s dream room, full of color and whimsy.
Personal items like a plaque from her son and a collection of favorite sunglasses are neatly displayed, bringing sentimental value to the place and making the van uniquely hers.
The bathroom facilities in Fanny May are designed for efficiency and convenience.
Gracie uses an Ogo composting toilet, which she praises for its lack of odor and efficient waste management.
Shower supplies are stored for use at places like Planet Fitness, allowing Gracie to maintain her hygiene routine while on the road without the need for a built-in shower.
The bedroom area features a full-size mattress, ensuring Gracie’s comfort with a fixed bed setup.
This design avoids the hassle of setting up a bed each night, allowing Gracie to retire comfortably at the end of her day.
The simplicity of the fixed bed also adds to the overall ease and functionality of her van life.
Gracie shares her background, growing up in Boise, Idaho, and working as a nurse for 44 years before retiring from the Portland VA in August 2022.
After meticulously planning her transition to van life, she sold her home and hit the road in July 2022.
Gracie emphasizes the health benefits and joy of her new lifestyle, proudly sharing that she has lost 47 pounds and relishes the freedom and new experiences that come with traveling.
The technical aspects of Fanny May are as impressive as its cozy interior.
The van is equipped with 600 watts of solar power and a Bluetti AC300 to meet all her energy needs.
A 30-gallon freshwater tank with an external pump facilitates outdoor use and washing.
The garage area offers plenty of storage space for various necessities, ensuring Gracie is well-prepared for life on the road.
See what a marvel life in Fanny May has turned out to be below!
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