First … Emmett, Oscar and I are all well.

As noted in the last post, I’ve been dealing with a worsening internet access issue and finally I was done!!! and I made a change in equipment.

I think shortly after last Summer’s slow down, I happened on a YouTube video by a digital nomad … a seriously technical person … who referenced CradlePoint mobile routers. I bookmarked CradlePoint and then did nothing.

Cutting to the chase, after rodeo week (this year) with large chunks of time without ANY internet at all, I bought a CradlePoint IBR900 Ruggedized Router. Yes. Ruggedized!!

Anyway, the router is made for RV/Truck/Mobile applications, but after speaking with sales and tech support … no reason I couldn’t use it in the house as well as in the RV same as I have my MIFI devices.

Bottomline, I’ve had the new router for almost 2 weeks, but fully operational for 1 week (challenges getting correct SIM) and had a stellar week of consistent Internet access/speed.

And that is not all of my techie news…

So.

Router upper right. It is sitting on an upside down small stainless steel colander. Routers run hot and this is my solution to make sure there is air flow all around.

Lower right: EcoFlow Max

Upper left: EcoFlow Wave

EcoFlow is a newish company that makes … “We create the world’s most innovative, eco-friendly power solutions that enable you to live, dream, and explore without limits.” Translation = lithium power stations aka solar generators.

I hope to eventually have a backup power system for my house and/or RV that allows me clean backup power. The Max is part 1.

While I was researching and watching EcoFlow, they released the Wave A/C which can be powered by the Max, their “Pro” or a supplemental battery pack. I opted for the Max/Wave bundle in their Kickstarter pre-sale.

The Max-Wave bundle allows me to run A/C in the case of a power cut. And while the Wave is only 4000 btu, it is enough to cool my bedroom, or my office.

In the photo above, the Wave is plugged into a normal U.S. AC outlet. It has been cooling my office nicely this past week with temps in the 90’s F. ***I have my normal 2 behemoth “portable” 12000 and 14000 btu units running in the living room and boy’s room as well as 2 small fans going to move air around. The house is VERY comfortable!

So.

Good internet access. Cool house. We are very happy here!!

Hmmm.

Usually, I am in bed first and then Emmett and Oscar join me and they find their spots around me. But this evening, I was hot and sticky so after making normal “going to bed” motions, opted for a quick cooling shower. When I went to get in bed …. “Wait … where is my spot???”

Morning sunshine in the woods.

And microgreens in the kitchen! Radish on the right about ready to harvest. Broccoli starting on the left.

Afternoon nap…

That’s it for July!