Renaissance Outdoorsman

Vehicle Modifications

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Feb• 20•12

In preparation for my upcoming vehicle living excursion, I’ve made some modifications to my Ford Explorer and wanted to share them with you as promised in my last post.

The first thing I did was be responsible and took the Explorer to my local auto mechanic and got an oil change, tire rotation, and an overall check on various pieces parts to make sure it was up for the challenge … she passed with flying colors.

The next thing I did was to open up the various cavities in the vehicle as best I could. One thing that I’m worried about is having enough space for all of the things I want to take as I travel across the country. I know I need to take clothes for all seasons, cookware, camping gear, and things like that, but I also want to take my fly fishing gear, spin fishing gear, kayaking gear, photography gear, writing stuff, and etc. Hey, maybe I shouldn’t be advertising all the stuff that is going to be crammed into my Explorer … oh well, I have to make a point, right? Anyway, the first thing I did to free up the cavities in the vehicle was to take the head rests off of both the back seats and the third row seats. Then I laid them down flat and made sure I kept the sliding cover that goes over the third row seats foot space open. Then I removed the lid to my back center console. The following pics show what I’m talking about:

Having slept in the vehicle before, I knew that the back was not level. To remedy this, and to make room for more storage, I decided to build a sleeping platform in the back. The trick was designing it so that I could get into it easy enough, access all of the storage areas I freed up, and get maximum storage underneath while still giving me sleeping room. I’ve spent the last three weeks thinking about it while I did other things to prepare for my excursion (renting a storage unit, inventorying everything I own, and moving it all to the storage unit). So, today I built it. It turned out pretty good and will work as I planned.

As you can see, I have a pretty nice platform and easy access to the cavities.

I did make one error that can not be remedied. I had originally intended to make it so that one of the back seats could be raised so that I could still put a car seat in the back for my niece and nephew for the times when I’m back in my home town. Unfortunately, I ended up having to raise the platform about two inches higher than originally anticipated and that made it so the curve of the back seat wouldn’t allow it to latch into the open locked position. I’ll just have to exchange vehicles with folks when I’m back if I plan to transport the niece or nephew.

Well, that sums up the modification I’ve made to the Ford Explorer so far. I still have to pad the sleeping platform, put my roof rack with cargo bag on top of the vehicle, and I’m going to get a cargo rack for the hitch. I’m also working on a design for an awning off of the driver’s side of the Explorer. That is going to take a little more thought. As always, I’ll keep you posted of my progress and my adventures. I hope to see you out there!

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Posted in Adventure, Camping, Travel, Vehicle Mods | No Comments »

Upheaval

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Jan• 31•12

If you’ve read my blog articles since the beginning, or even over the last six months, then you know that my life is in a constant state of change as I try to live a better life. A better life for me is one that is simple, laid back, involves friends and family, and is outdoor-oriented. Obviously, as the name of my blog insinuates, the outdoors is a major component of my spiritual, emotional, and mental well being. I’ve even come to terms with the fact that my physical state is directly related to where I live and how easily I can escape into nature. Unfortunately, the outdoor component in my life has been missing and so has my motivation and satisfaction.

I currently live in Marion, Ohio. Marion is a quiet, affordable place to live that happens to be a place of comfortability because I grew up here, and because my family is here. However, it is an industrial community surrounded by flat farmland with little to no terrain and lacks in opportunities for the types of outdoor recreation I prefer. Combine that with my focus on finances, which tends to keep me closer to home (as it costs money to travel especially with higher fuel prices), and I’ve come to the conclusion that I need to redirect my life once again.

After a couple of months of deliberation and conversations with friends, family, and myself (yes, I do talk to myself … sometimes even out loud), I have made a decision to move out of my apartment and into my vehicle! Yes, I said my vehicle. We’re talking major upheaval.

The primary reasons for this decision are to: reduce my “basic” belongings down to what will fit in, or on, my vehicle; to break free from what I like to refer to as tethered responsibilities (bills resulting from rent, electric, gas, trash, water, and etc.); to live more from the land and my self-sufficient abilities; to get outdoors more; and to travel. In addition to those reasons, I’m also hoping to increase my chances at gaining meaningful employment with an outdoor focused organization, and to work on writing a book.

My plan will be to travel between key outdoor areas to explore new places and job opportunities. Visiting and living in these outdoor areas will promote a better state of mind while forcing me to think about things that most of us have come to take for granted (such as: where I’ll be getting water, how I’m going to prepare meals, keeping comfortable in the elements, and even where I’m going to go to the bathroom). I’m also expecting it will help me lose the excess weight that has accumulated over the last year. And I’m hoping that the personal visit to potential employers will allow me to make more of an impact than sending out resumé after resumé. I feel that any edge might make the difference in these tough times.

I know that living out of my vehicle will be a significant change and probably prove to be quite difficult at times, but I’m excited about the challenge and feel this type of adventure is just what I need. At the very least, I should strengthen my character and my writing.

It is my plan to spend the next month preparing and making the transition to my vehicle (I plan to hit the road around March 1, 2012). This should prove interesting as I have forty years of stuff to pare down. The important items will go in the vehicle, items I don’t want to have to repurchase once I settle down again will go into storage, and the rest will either be sold or given away. I will do my best to document the processes I go through to give you a reference of what I’m doing. And of course I’ll chronicle my adventures. Who knows, I might even see you out there!

Posted in General, Travel | No Comments »

Distinction

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Nov• 13•11

I recently took a trip to Michigan. I was there primarily to check on a potential job and visit a friend, but I wasn’t about to miss the opportunity to explore an outdoor area that was new to me. My free time was limited so I chose a state forest that had terrain for a good hike and wasn’t too far away. The trail and forest itself was nothing spectacular, but my experience was quite amazing.

I often retreat to the outdoors for solitude and spiritual alignment which allows me to relax and refresh. In turn, this allows me to put things in perspective and process thoughts more thoroughly … not to mention more true to myself as nature is not near as opinionated and biased as people. More to the point, nature isn’t as judgmental. For example, the natural world doesn’t care what I wear regardless of current trends, gaudiness, or even if it matches, but I will care if I’m not prepared to handle the environment and weather. It’s about my knowledge, experiences, and common sense versus how how others view me or how I fit into societal expectations. That was exactly the type of thinking I needed as I evaluated my current situation and how I should approach the job opportunity I was presented with.

Even though I thought that was enough insight for one outdoor excursion, nature wasn’t done challenging me. I was walking down the trail, consumed with the puzzle pieces of my life, when I came upon a lone hardwood in a stand of conifers. There it stood in all it’s majesty, defying it’s neighbors. The pines grew straight up and seemingly simple. The oak had branches going every which way, much more complex, and making a statement … I don’t care what you do, I’m doing my own thing! The oak knew what it was and what it had to do, and was going to do it in the only way it knew how. It was fighting with all of its might to be itself and soldier through until the end.

That thought process got me thinking about individuality (both then when I saw the tree, and now when I reflect back on the experience). Individuality is in all of us. We each have a unique set of DNA, unique experiences, and unique perspectives. But I think it’s how we deal with our individuality that really matters. Regardless of how individual each of us are, we really aren’t all that different if we do what everyone else is doing and what society expects of us! I think there is a bigger component to individuality that is much more significant … distinction. Merriam-Webster defines distinction as: “the quality or state of being distinguished or worthy”. I think the definition needs to be deeper and stronger than that, especially when it comes to personality. I think distinction is derived through one’s braveness and integrity to uphold their individuality over time. I know, profound, right? That pesky nature sure has a way of striking deep.

In short, getting outdoors and seeing that tree, reminded me about my individuality and how others will accept and understand my distinction. It’s a big part of the reason I started this blog, and, more importantly, strive to attain a certain lifestyle. It is a significant component of my recent decision-making trends, and it needs to remain my underlying foundation to the decisions I make in the future. Thank you for the reminder, oak tree … and nature.

What is, or will be, your distinction?

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Posted in General, Hiking, Personal Reflection | No Comments »

Re-Renaissance

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Oct• 07•11

She said “I don’t believe you’re tryin’ to find no job. I seen you today you was standin’ on a corner, leaning up against a post.”

I said “But I was tired, I’ve been walkin’ all day”

I can’t help but be reminded of those George Thorogood lyrics a couple of times a week when I catch myself enjoying my time off and not really trying too hard to get a job. I know I’m going to need to get a job sooner than later, especially since even crappy jobs are no longer a dime a dozen, but I’m still set on applying for the higher end jobs that I hope will get me into an outdoor-oriented profession. I’ll take any well wishes I can get by the way!

As I’ve stated in previous posts, I’m working on simplifying my life and maintaining an outdoor focus. I’ve taken several steps forward in this direction and I continue to get more and more happy, although I know I have a long way to go before I’m truly content. Self evaluation is not always easy, and I’m finding that navigating from where I’ve been to where I want to be can be tricky … and certainly time consuming. I suppose there are things I could do to speed the process up, but I want to do this right so it may take while. Besides, I want it to do this in a way that optimizes the end result for me while minimizing the impact on those I care about.

As it stands, I feel I’m doing the little things right and not doing anything major that will hinder my cause … and often times that is enough progress. Even though I continue to move forward on my “better life plan”, I feel that I need to take a little better advantage of the time on my hands … and that is a big part of why I’m posting this article today.

I consider myself a fair writer and photographer and have developed many ideas for writing ranging from essays to books. You’ve had the opportunity to see a few of the essays, but I have many, many more in the works. I also feel it is time to think a little grander and start working on the book ideas. I’m not quite ready to share the concepts or any excerpts with the masses yet, but they are developing nicely.

One of my biggest realizations is that I’m going to need help to actualize my dreams … and I’m ready to start asking for it. This is a big step for me as I tend to want to achieve things on my own. It didn’t take long in my self reflection process to realize that, although I’ve accomplished a lot on my own, I’ve always had an amazing supporting cast. More importantly than that, I’ve come to realize that there are a lot of good people out there with dreams and that this world would be a better place if we could help each other attain them. The hardest part is asking for help.

I am going to ask for help … eventually … from those closest to me as well as all of you. First, I want to refocus and revise the Renaissance Outdoorsman blog so that it will be more oriented toward my writing goals and therefore more conducive to fostering the help I need. I’m going to be deleting many of the sideline posts (like movie and book reviews) as well as any other posts that I feel don’t work optimally for my refocused direction. Then I’m hoping to start posting more frequently. In addition to works that will most likely be a part of my book(s), I’ll also be documenting my process … in case any of you are interested in the journey instead of just the results of my progression.

As always, any input that you are willing to share would be appreciated. And know that my idea of help goes both ways … I’m not only asking for help, I’m volunteering to help you in any way that I can. Oh, and my future posts will definitely be more outdoorsy, and less personal goals. In the mean time, I hope to see you out there!

Posted in General, Lifestyle Change Updates, Personal Reflection | No Comments »

Working Too Well

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Aug• 19•11

First, I’d like to apologize for it having been so long since my last post. Second, I’d like to say that you are welcome! You are much better off with me not posting frivolous writings for the sake of posting without much to say. Curious as to why I haven’t been posting? It’s because the simplifying of my life is working all too well!

As I stated in my last post, I did get laid off of work. And I must say that it has been great! Never mind the reduced income from unemployment (something I’m hoping won’t be an extended affair), but the time off and a couple of lump sum payments has benefited my attitude greatly. It has also improved my short term finances. I’ve paid off my vehicle loan and one of my credit cards. In addition to my monthly expenditures being reduced, I’m left with a usable credit card for emergencies. I’ve also taken the time off to evaluate my other monthly expenditures and have made several changes there as well. It’s amazing what a difference a hand full of small changes make. If things work as planned, I’m going to go from living paycheck to paycheck while working to having a couple of extra bucks at the end of each month without a job.

Speaking of a job, I’m hoping I won’t be on unemployment for long, but I’m also not rushing to get out from underneath it. Please don’t judge me too harshly for that. It’s true that I’m enjoying not being tied to a job right now, but I’m excited because I’m trying to take advantage of my extra time to pursue an outdoor-oriented job in a more outdoor-oriented location. The best part of reducing costs and living simpler is that I can accept a job without having to hold out for a larger paycheck. While it takes more time to apply than I recall from past experiences, I’m hoping my efforts will poise me to live comfortably and simply in an outdoor area. Wish me luck!

As far as getting outdoors goes, I haven’t done as much as I’d like. I’ve gotten out a few times with family or friends (which I’ve been very fortunate to spend a lot of time with), but really haven’t pursued my outdoor interests. Part of this is because of weather, and part is because of keeping my fuel costs down. My current apartment requires that I drive ten or so miles each time I want to do anything in nature and I’m still “feeling out” my budget to see how much I have for travel … of any distance.

I’ve not taken big steps toward the self-sufficient living either. I am training myself to live simpler and get more for my money though, and I feel that it’s getting me on the right track. For example, I’ve switched from an electric razor back to disposable razors. Since I don’t have to shave every day for a tie-wearing type job, I tend to only shave every four to six days. Taking this in mind, by my calculations, I bought enough razors and shaving lotion to last a year for around $15. This should equate to a decent savings. I use a little bit more water and have the disposable razor to contend with, but I’m one less item being tethered to electricity … and spending the crazy amounts on razor head replacements … and worrying whether the electric pieces-parts might break … and, well, you get the idea. I’m working on doing this with a few items around the home. I have yet to produce anything from raw materials or evaluate the cost of making versus buying, but right now it is more important to do with less luxury and get as much bang for my buck as I can.

I’d have to say that the biggest change in my life is my attitude. I felt I had a decent attitude before. but I’m much happier and even more laid back now that I’m not tied to a job and because of the changes I’m making in my life. It certainly has motivated me to keep moving forward and living simpler no matter how small the steps. I do need to get out and exercise a bit more even if just walking around town. Overall, I don’t know how much will be worth writing about … and to be honest, I feel much less compelled to write and post weekly like I had before. Please be patient with me as I do plan to continue writing, it’s just that I have no idea of how frequently it will be. I guess I’ll write when I have something to say that I feel is worth sharing … and I’ll try to make it about things that are useful more so than updates of how I’m doing in life.

Until next time: live simple and live happy. I hope to see you out there!

Posted in General, Lifestyle Change Updates, Personal Reflection | 2 Comments »

Change Is Coming

Written By: Jim Ferriman - Jul• 10•11

Change is inevitable. Sometimes it’s for the better, sometimes it isn’t. There are times when you initiate it, and there are times where you can either go with the flow or buck it for all you’re worth … but eventually you will probably give in because times and people change whether you like it or not.

Personally, I’ve initiated a self-imposed lifestyle change over the last few years and have tried to speed the process up over the last six months or so. I’m trying to eliminate my debts, and other societal constrictions, while living simpler as a whole. I’m also trying to get outdoors more because that is where I feel most alive and relaxed at the same time. The process has been slow going but it is progressing in the right direction.

This upcoming week is significant for me in that I will be paying off my vehicle loan (which frees up a large chunk of committed money) and therefore taking a big step forward. I’m also getting laid off at the end of the week … an obvious step backward. But I’m choosing to look at it as a half step backward so I can springboard another full step forward. In addition to being in a position to withdrawal my work sponsored annuity so that I can payoff another debt, it will give me a lot of time to devote to organizing and simplifying my life. Even though my income will be greatly reduced, so will my debts.

How will this affect Renaissance Outdoorsman? Well, part of my simplifying and getting back to the basics is that I want to live cheaper and more self-sufficient. I want to learn how to make things that are cheaper to do so than to buy. I want to learn how to make more from natural materials. I want to learn primitive skills that our ancestors did out of necessity versus choice. And in all of my pursuits, I want to learn more ways of using what I consume more wholly with less waste. Admittedly, this will be tough living in an apartment in town, but I’m in a unique position where I can do my best to learn these skills for the life I want to lead in the future … assuming things fall into place and I can live in an area more suited to how I want to live.

I know, I never really answered the question. I plan to use blogging, audio podcasts, and video podcasts to document the lifestyle change pursuits mentioned above. I’m not really changing the format of Renaissance Outdoorsman so much as I’m refining it to match my lifestyle. I’m hoping that articles will be more informative and applicable, or at least more entertaining. And even though I’ll have more time on my hands, I’m hoping to have less time for writing and recording so posting will probably be less frequent … not to mention I’ll have even less resources to travel to outdoor locations.

I’m choosing, as well as being forced on the job front, to make many changes. I’m very excited and positive about these changes. It’s all oriented toward a simpler life with less commitment so I’m choosing to see how things develop versus make any promises. I’m hoping the change in my life will benefit you as well. Until my next post, I hope to see you out there!

Posted in General, Lifestyle Change Updates | 1 Comment »

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