Fleetwood Oak Park Model
Pamela Schwing, Administrator, Nanaimo Arbutus RV Location
A number of us like to travel, explore the most exotic places in the world. Others enjoy hitching up to their RV, heading for no particular destination. I have to admit I am somewhat of a home body.
The view of the mountains, a lake; trail for hiking, hot tub and swimming pool is now my backyard and the breathtaking view is beyond imaginable. I recently purchased a customized park model, added a deck, a few plants, solar lights, friends and family.
It all started one day last spring when I showed a lovely couple through a park model; I was taking photographs for the Arbutus website. I became aware that I was truly interested in the floor plan, décor and conveniences. As thoughts developed, I realized that I could live in a park model. This is where my exploration began. You would be amazed at the amount of planning that was needed but it all came together.
I started by assessing my wants and needs. Well that is not exactly true. One of our park models had an island kitchen. The island was my first attraction. Who sits at a dining room table these days? Not anyone I know. The get-togethers almost always happen in the kitchen. In my family this is always the case. We grab a bar stool and the good times just happen.
I am an avid TV watcher and love to cook but there never seems to be enough time to do either. As you can imagine it was essential that I was able to watch my favourite shows while cooking. Multi-tasking at its best! Clean up is made easy with the double stainless sink and dishwasher. There is plenty of working counter space and cupboard room is generous – there are even cupboards in the island. The gas range and oven are a joy when trying my new and much-loved recipes. Above the cupboards I display all my finer pieces of china, my wine compilation and collection of pigs. Okay, I collect pigs!
The wrap-around windows and clerestory dormers add natural light and during the winter months, I had under-counter pot lights installed. Cathedral ceiling architecture and bay windows, coordinated lambrequins and easy to care vinyl flooring complete the homey atmosphere.
A large closet lent itself perfectly for a built-in vacuum, winter coats and boot tray. I have all the conveniences and luxuries but I still have homework. The stackable washer/dryer makes laundry day a breeze. The bathroom (ensuite to the master bedroom) is not huge but the residential size tub/shower, over-sized mirror and coordinated medicine cabinet helps with the “morning beauty regiment”. The master bedroom, with bay window, and sliding mirrored closet doors is comfortable for relaxing, just reading my favourite book and a peaceful sleep.
I saw a doe and her family just strolling past my window. Does she know something I don’t?
The living room’s sliding glass door leads to the 14’ x 35’ deck. (we stained wood for 2 months) I designed a two tier deck that we could use for intimate or large family and friends gatherings. I added a canopy, a fountain, a Yukon fire pit and a comfortable conversation couch, chairs and table. The remaining grass yard, which I watered and fertilized all spring, was what I thought a terrific idea but it turned out to be more of an occupation. The neighbour next door and I had a bet as to whose grass would grow to be more luscious. Who was I kidding? For anyone keeping score, I lost.
I am getting ahead of myself; there was something before I started all the betting. The last thing on my list…where was I going to locate my new home? Residing in this stunning province for the last twenty years I realized that the perfect spot was on the island! As I said earlier I found a resort where I could have everything. I now live, work and play every day in a wonderland.
Not everyone can have everything; but some of us are lucky enough to achieve a fantastic life.
On a personal note I would like to thank the following people for their unwavering and commitment in my insanity:
Dad (and Mom who made the meals)
Judi (who just came by to visit and always stayed until the project was completed)
Neighbours (for all their various opinions)
|
