Drizzly desert Winter camping: hiking, cooking, and relaxing among the Arizona cacti, with a cold.

[@shellykp33]

You are a trooper to go out there with a cold. I love Gunther's blep. We might need a blep compilation video. LOL

[@tpod892]

Gunther and his blep. 💖 He really is just the goodest boy and deserves all the ham. Well, not all the ham, it's really not good for him, but all the ham within reason. Also, I really, REALLY miss Tony Bourdain. There is a hole in the universe where he used to be. 😢 Thanks for letting us camp vicariously through you!

[@ShoestringMartha]

He definitely deserves his ham, but only gets what's within reason. He came from his former home with a rotund little tum, which we are steadily addressing. True, true about Tony. 💔

[@lisamallard]

You need a go pro for gunther. The gunther cam. Lol he so cute

[@rofireskyte6931]

Nice video, I might need to get one of those waffle makers… tip for the tarp I saw the poles have sections at in a light rain drop 1 section so water can run off 1 corner. Feel better and cute puppy! But Gunther is the 🐝 knees, great job on the hike little buddy.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Good call. I did that last time, but this time, I wanted more headroom. I totally could have dropped the front end though, without impacting headroom. Ya live ya learn 😄

[@ramonapuckett3059]

Love the video, Gunther is a cutie pie and here’s to a great New Year with no sickness, just adventures ❤

[@dianeclarke2618]

OMGosh!!! The landscape with those dramatic skies!!! Sooooo beautiful! Also....m good woodsplitting while keeping your hands safe!! Take care , thanks for the mini escape!

[@ShoestringMartha]

Thanks for joining! My hands made it out safe, but not the firepit. I whacked it on that first strike, and left a notch. Site T9 will forever have my mark. 😆

[@dianeclarke2618]

That Hummer was a stunner too. So impressed you got good video of it sitting. We only have ruby throated East of the Mississippi.

[@ShoestringMartha]

First time spotting a Costa’s for me! We get a lot of Anna’s in our backyard. Hummingbirds are such a joy to watch 😍

[@ervinslens]

This was so serene my friend. Absolutely beautiful presentation! 🔥

[@A-K_Rambler]

Fun money shopping Stipend at your local Dollar General!!!

[@ShoestringMartha]

Thanks!! I actually need some things from there 😄

[@lovedogsontheloose]

I chuckle at so many of the little things in your videos, like "botanically inaccurate" and the Bourdain bit. Love it. Holland is ridiculously cute. So fun to watch him and Gunther play together. Btw, my aunt got me a Mini Griddle for Christmas. I was so excited! I've been very impressed with it so far.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Thank you! He has really make Gunther about 3 years younger. They play play play all day long! Those tiny appliances are so much fun! Even at home, I've been having a blast, seeing what all I can possibly waffle.

[@Amigoof]

That hummingbird, though! BIG fan! Nice to see something other than a ruby-throated!! Chomping at the bit to do some camping but a bit cold in Ohio! Like to see what you’re going to come up with to cook next! The little waffle iron is fun! Little squeezes to Gunther and the new fur baby! Be well!

[@ShoestringMartha]

I usually only see Anna's hummingbirds, so the Costa's was a delight. I only wish my phone could have captured his handsome purple sash. I'll pass those squeezes on to Gunther and Holland (if he stays still long enough). 😆

[@paulas_lens]

A TIP! To help out with that filled poo bag, use a larger binder clip to hold the bag ONTO the leash so you can walk hands free. The binder clip pinches the bag and the leash together.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Great tip! I happen to have loads of binder clips 😏

[@bessycorrales2259]

Beautiful camp spot. Gunther is such a good camp companion.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Couldn't agree more! 🥰

[@cillaloves2fish688]

So cool to see you cook chaffels while camping! I just got into making chaffels a few weeks ago and now I make several varieties to take to work for snax or part of lunch, they're so good! I also have a cast iron "pie iron" that I've never used, got it online a few years ago, now I gotta get it out n put it to use!

[@ShoestringMartha]

I was on a real kick with those! I still make them. Lately, I’ve started trying to make that chicken-based pizza crust recipe in the waffle maker. Such a fun cooking tool - but not as fun as a pieiron 😉

[@cillaloves2fish688]

​@@ShoestringMartha Watched this again... Really gotta get my pie iron skills up to par!

[@MalindaOuch]

Hahaha I just found your channel and I LOVE it! Your comments make me chuckle. Your dog is so adorable! And the cacti there are so beautiful! Thanks for taking us along with you

[@ShoestringMartha]

Welcome aboard -- here's to many more adventures together!

[@mcspin50]

Way to go, Gunther! Three miles on those little legs is no small feat! 😉 Hope your cold has gone away.

[@ShoestringMartha]

I’m feeling much better, thank you 😊

[@roxanes43]

Cheers to a new year 🥂 and glad you're feeling better. That little Gunther pep was hopping! Sweet spot there and thanks for a new pie iron idea. Enjoyed having you back in the YT land!

[@ShoestringMartha]

Cheers from Gunther and me! 🥂

[@Redchiligale]

I always enjoy your camping videos and I'm so glad you are continuing the monthly camping this year. You have inspired me to try "low key" camping.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Yes! No stress! Just chill camping vibes. This year, I am definitely doing *some* sort of adventure every month -- *mostly* camping. Other adventures might be a dog-friendly road trip, a mushroom foray, or a camping build, and I'm probably taking July off 🥵 but making up for it with a multi-day excursion in the Fall. Stay tuned! 😉

[@billpliske]

Art while camping! Yeah!! Mom still arting?

[@ShoestringMartha]

Always! She even set up a nice studio in their new place 😊

[@roadtriplover.]

Ive purchased a little waffle iron and got all my stuff together to give it a first try. Then, I realized I left the iron in my travel trailer. Im guessing my first use will be when Im actually camping. I have a 500W GoalZero battery and it will be interesting to see if it can handle the waffle iron. Should be fine. I don’t drink coffee, so I wont need to plug in a kettle or anything else. Im testing these things, as Im trying to convert the back of my truck into an impromptu camping vessel for those times I don’t want to pull the trailer. Thanks for all the inspiration you provide!!

[@ShoestringMartha]

I would think you’ll be fine. The waffle irons pull a lot of watts, but not for very long. I just stated following someone who has an camper, but had started using her pickup for short or off-road trips. I think her name is Catherine Gregory. 🤔

[@roadtriplover.]

@@ShoestringMartha OH, yes!! I have been following @Catherine Gregory for several years and I'm awed by all she shows us through her eyes. She's an awesome photographer and videographer. And you're correct about the trailer and truck option ingredients. She's one of my sources for iinspiration. Between you and her and the design ideas you share, my truck is going to be SUPER comfortable, I have no doubt. 😁

[@ShoestringMartha]

Once in a while, the YT algorithm works! 😂

[@tracyd7432]

Happy New Year!! Loved that campsite. So happy for you and Gunther that he has built up his hiking distance. Wanted to thank you for all of your pie iron recipes. Finally picked one up last weekend 😊 I hope you are healthy and well (medicinal toddies def help 😉) Here is to an excellent 2023!

[@ShoestringMartha]

Cheers! Shame on me for neglecting regional parks last year. They are such a treasure. Enjoy that pieiron - they’re so much fun ☺️

[@milesandhikes]

OMG what a gorgeous camping spot!!! and the new puppy is adorable 😍 Happy New Year!

[@ShoestringMartha]

I’m definitely a new fan of that place. Happy new year!!🎊

[@milesandhikes]

@@ShoestringMartha Thanks! :)

[@tracker5849]

Is Gunther a wirehaired Dachshund grown out..or D and poodle X or..... hes adorable. Cute dog..cooking..camping driving..reasons i first subscribed. Oh yeah and a pretty lady

[@ShoestringMartha]

☺️☺️☺️ He’s a “silky” or “soft-coated wirehaired” dachshund. Supposedly the combination of a wirehaired and a long-haired.

[@charlesruelas3962]

Nice quick video, Gunther entertains as always. I am getting excited. I leave for my 5 week trip across country 02/12. (Leaving fromAtlanta) As I watch your videos and others, I have learned what I need or should have obtained better items. I have a 300 Watt continuous power bank, Rockpals. This will be my second across country trip. Did one in 2020 and purchased a lot of the items I want or plan on using this trip. I often think I should have purchased a bit more power. Liked your video on the solar panels, will be going with theRockPals. Just cannot bring myself to buy another power bank when this one is only 2 years old. I power a laptop, phone when necessary, this time a few lights. I have a Yeti cooler, new for this trip, no fridge. I purchased a small Mr. heater for this trip. I had considered an electric blanket, just not sure if it's viable with such small power bank. Haven't done the research either. My main thing is coffee, I have a little gas rocket for now. I have been to Arizona a few times, Grand Canyon etc. Never really camped, dispersed camped. Trying to figure out some good places for a few days, just to experience 2 or 3 areas. Your videos have helped me when I decide. Will be coming in south I-10 ish, with deviation. Ongoing to San Diego and then throughout California up to Washington, then over to many other states in NW area. Can't believe it's almost here. I will be a digital nomad this time. Unfortunately, my work has slowed a great deal, this enables me to take this long of a trip and when needed can work as long as I have good WIFI. Know this long winded, but your videos with the 4Runner have helped me tremendously as I plan this endeavor. Had a 2018 F-150 then. Any recommendation or must see other than the obvious in AZ? Please keep the videos coming, Thanks

[@ShoestringMartha]

Thank you! I think you have chosen well for energy distribution. Electronics draw very little, whereas, anything that heats is a huge vampire. So wise choice, going with fuel for your heater and for your coffee. If you do decide to get an electric blanket, or even just a heating pad, and if your powerbank has a 12v outlet, definitely go with a 12v version. I think part of the reason my blanket draws so much energy is because it takes regular household AC power. However, I have even run it for a few hours, just with my little Ryobi inverter. So compared to an electric heater, it's very efficient. I'm not much of a sightseer. I just like a nice environment / experience, so I can't think of any dont-miss sights at the moment. If you go through Dateland on your way to SD, stop for a date shake. 😄

[@charlesruelas3962]

@@ShoestringMartha Is Dateland in Walls, SD by chance? I have been to Walls last trip and will be going back to the Black Hills, so if it is, I will stop. Thanks!

[@ShoestringMartha]

It’s just a tiny town between Phoenix and San Diego, where there’s not much. They grow dates, and there’s a little touristy shop that sells everything made of dates, including milkshakes. They’re painfully sweet, yet I always stop for one, just because they’re so unusual. 😄

[@charlesruelas3962]

@@ShoestringMartha ah, I see, feel not so smart. Obvious I am not from the area, SD is the state for me. But I will do so, sounds great! I just watched a video SUV RVing and your 4Runner show case. I just connected that I'd seen this before. Before I had my 4Runner, now things pop up in my feed with 4Runner material. I love Tristens channel, that contributed to me going 2 years ago and again now. I use his data for places to see and settle. Thanks again!!

[@ShoestringMartha]

@@charlesruelas3962 Hey now! I am the not so smart one, because I just now realized you were talking about South Dakota and not San Diego - which is where Dateland is near 🤣 Tristan is such a gem ❤️

[@rob_cd]

I love Gunther and how adorable is Holland?! ♥️

[@tjfm59]

rainy t-stormy day this way. catching up on some of my cooking shows. have 2 for you. 1:donal's irish adveture"antrium" s1 ep5 the apple whiskey desert. wiskey in the all 3 layers. bottom a oatmeal carmel crunch, middle the cooked apples, top some whipped cream. next is sara' weeknight meals - s9 ep 4 french eggs. the first item is a egg gallete. a lot of this one could be done ahead of time at home than put in zippy bags for a campout. the gallete is a crepe fold up into the gallete shape. next 1 slice of cheese is sliced an placed in the crepe middle. next slice a slice of ham add this to the middle of the crepe while doing all of the above fry a egg in a egg ring in the pan. when the egg is done(personnel choice). place the egg on top an put the whole gallete beck in the pan to melt the cheese. the next question is expirmentation time will it fit into a pie iron? for the cooking & warmup .

[@ShoestringMartha]

That all sounds pretty tasty!

[@tjfm59]

@@ShoestringMartha finally watching the video, tillanmook is a good cheese. try cabot out of vermont. instead of american slices, try the kraft old english, comes in a jar. gives more of a cheddar flavor. it is the one i use when i do a hard boiled egg ham & cheese omllet mix. at camp: peel & mash the eggs as for egg salad. slice an dice the ham. john morrell diced ham would probable be best. but i usually use hormel canned ham. & half a bottle of the old english. mix it all up in a zippy & heat in a pot of boiling water. season to taste.

[@nancymcneill872]

We must have the same travel agent. You've once again landed in one of my favorite camping spots. Also great for stargazing, meteor showers, other sky phenomena. And, please. "Low carb waffles" is such an oxymoron. Wanna make them healthier-just skip the maple syrup.

[@ShoestringMartha]

Oh I’ll be back to fluffy Belgian style by February 🤣 I was originally going to book Lost Dutchman for my winter campout, but it was already book up, when I was looking, 3 months out. Turned out for the best, because I really loved this campground! 🥰 I was hoping to capture the stars, but it was just too cloudy. Next time! 🤞🏻

[@bigdansplan9262]

Do you consider the 4-Runner as your ‘Spirit Animal’?

[@ShoestringMartha]

Lol! Not quite that close - maybe more like a faithful pack horse 🐴🤠

[@chrisberkeley3298]

Hi Martha! Love your videos. Husband and I are headed to NM and AZ from MA in a couple of weeks and I want to do a tarp awning like you have on our minivan. Can you tell me how you have it attached to your roof? And what kind of tarp it is? Thx so much. Camp on!

[@ShoestringMartha]

I haven’t shared an attachment method yet, because I’m still experimenting. This trip, I used S hooks attached to suction cup glass movers, but they kept spontaneously releasing 😣 But if you need to attach to the windshield - would work. The most reliable and flexible method so far has been magnets like these: amzn.to/3XrOdf2 The tarp should be in the description. Please let me know if you don’t see it. Safe travels! ❤️

[@chrisberkeley3298]

Thx so much!

[@nebc_yukonyeti]

I’m so grateful to see anything botanical, even if it’s “botanically inaccurate” 😂 It’s a winter wonderland of hoar frost (past the knees) where I live so anything green is appreciated. Have been a pie iron fan for a long time so really enjoy the PIe Iron Chef portions. We’ve tried every receipe and can’t wait to give this one a go. 🥾🏔🇨🇦❤️

[@ShoestringMartha]

Getting mad at myself because ocotillo flowers sprout from the top and not the side is probably the most Virgo thing I’ve ever shared 😂