MAKING ADJUSTMENTS TO MY VAN BUILD AFTER MY FIRST ROAD TRIP IN THE NEW BUILD - LIFE IS GOOD!!

[@4yellowwolf]

Put small Velcro on each corner of the fan frame. It will hold it in place and allow it to be removed! Good luck 🍀

[@stephaniesansoucie]

I dropped by the comments just to add this same suggestion on velcro!

[@lilrhodychick]

I was thinking command strips but this is a good idea too!

[@ginnybrunori5778]

Agreed. The Velcro has worked much better than Command strips every time.

[@jennslifeinhuntingtonwv2678]

I was thinking the same lol

[@karinhart489]

Yes, Velcro. First try the little screws into corrugated plastic, then Velcro and if those don’t work try the white duct tape.

[@jaynewarriner7214]

It might help to round off the corners to the little surface by the bed. It would add an inch or more to swing your legs around getting in the bed. And I agree scooting it over also. Would it make sense to you to put a round (lazy-Susan) or stationary piece for your plate to sit on while you or enter or exit your bed?! It’s fun to troubleshoot! Once again, thanks for including all of us❤

[@susanmaguire9009]

What gets me is what a problem solver in design are you!

[@SoulSeaching]

Put small strips of Velcro around the frame of the max air fan and stick up there

[@janjan45]

Lulu, something you could do to control the oder in your icebox is to take a paper towel and put a little vanilla on it and wipe the inside of your cooler/icebox and leave the paper towel in it till ready to use again and the smell is very pleasant. A little tip from my mom from our camping days.

[@MsNZgal]

Great idea. My van has to go in for repairs so I have disconnected my fridge and emptied it. I will give your idea a go.

[@janet1744]

Vanilla extract also makes wall paint smell better when stirred into paint well.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

Never tried that tip. I usually put a cup of white vinegar in my fridge. But I'll try vanilla 😊

[@RLeeVanCamps]

How about a box of baking soda. Works in the fridge and freezer at home

[@ginagonzalez6547]

Hi, for the bed situation, you can have someone saw it off to make a nice and smooth curve so the pointy corner will not hurt you when you get on and off the bed.

[@jomarie6860]

I think I would angle cut the corner of the table next to the bed as well. It looks like a spot to get bruised getting out? Also cloth covered hair ties around bottles keeps them from rattling together, if that helps.😊

[@LulusWay64]

hello!! I haven't banged or bruised on that corner yet. it seems to be perfectly located that I never hit it!!! thanks for the tip!! 💕

[@roxannesears7878]

For your drawers, glue a strip of plastic (think thin plastic cutting matts) on the sides. So they glide easily

[@maryanderson1619]

Good idea! Buy an inexpensive glossy placemat and cut it to fit the drawer and glue it.

[@VivecaV2020]

I thought putting some felt on the side of the drawer might work.

[@LifeBetweenTheDash]

Love the thin cutting board idea. Could get them at the dollar store. Quick. Easy. Affordable.

[@TeeTirado]

Chroloplast between drawers

[@deb7518]

Or maybe your friend Bob has a belt sander? Just a few seconds against a belt sander on each inside piece of those drawers would d o the trick.

[@Lorraine24_]

Please be sure than anything that will end up close to your food is food grade. Your van is amazing! I so enjoy watching you plan and improvise!

[@LulusWay64]

hello!! thanks, and I'm so happy that you enjoy watching my videos!!! I'm glad you are here! Lulu 💕

[@evettabush3435]

I like your idea for the cooler top. Try it out, Lulu! If it doesn't work out you can always go back to the original

[@tracyk-79]

I was thinking that if you had some Alien Tape left, that would maybe keep your fan frame up. Also as far as replacing the top of the cooler, I like the thought of using what you already have. Just make sure it will take your weight when you sit on it. I’m finding that problem solving is half the fun on my little van build. I can see that you like the process as well. Take care.❤

[@LulusWay64]

yes Tracy, problem solving and tweaking things is half the fun of vanlife!! YAY 💕

[@rebekahfrye7934]

For the drawer you could glue a wooden ruler to the side of one; then you could also measure things if needed!

[@LoOnTheGo]

Lulu, you bring a huge smile to my face!

[@LulusWay64]

awww Lo, thanks for such a sweet note. your note brings a huge smile to my face!!! 💕

[@gloria5873]

Hi Lulu, I really like your ideas about the cooler and your drawers. Great ideas! Looking forward to seeing what you do. You are a very wise, smart and thrifty lady. 🙂 👍 ♥

[@kathleencomyn5228]

On your 2 red draws, use wood putty on both to fill in the ridges and sand it smooth and paint the sides the same colour

[@OwlingDogDesign]

You 'could' use a Turn Latch.' This is just a primitive bar that attaches with a screw in the middle of it. It turns 360 degrees. Either vertical or horizontal allows opening or closing of a thing. It's hard to describe. Back in 'the old days' your Grammie's hutch had a clasp like this. Hahaha, I'm showing my age but those dang things are mighty handy and super simple. xo

[@LulusWay64]

YES!! that's what it's called!! that's what I was describing in the video!!

[@OwlingDogDesign]

@@LulusWay64 HAhaha, I jumped the gun on that because someone else mentioned it. You're my hero! I love your attitude - thanks for the video!

[@randyp9491]

my 2 cents I just don't think a wooden board will keep your cooler cold.... you can always do 2 smaller coolers snd divide your food up between the 2

[@kathyboling1850]

When I saw 36 minutes of watching Lulu tell about some changes, I was so excited to watch. As we travel there seems to be changes that needs to be made. I have had my tiny camper 5 years and I’m still making changes and updates. 💕 Love your videos and the updates you are making. I’m a 60mph gal and savin gas. ~*~ Kathy🌸

[@LulusWay64]

hi Kathy!! yes, the changes and updates are never-ending, it's half the fun!! so happy you enjoy my videos!! so glad you are here! Lulu 😊

[@rowanmulvey8632]

For your coolor iI would suggest using the original lid and just cut the whole top part of it off, put the ply wood and cushion and fabric on that. That way the seal, the hinge, strap etc will all still fit perfectly but you will have more head room

[@LulusWay64]

hello Rowan, I had to think about what you were saying and then I imagined it and I see your point. thanks for the idea!! Lulu 💕

[@suzannecranford6819]

Your van is wonderful! I think the fun of it is how it will continue to change as you find out what works for you. You have great ideas! Happy trails and thanks for the tour!

[@LulusWay64]

thanks Suzanne!! yes, it a never-ending project!! and it's so fun!! 😊

[@missymason2377]

Educational...😊

[@deeplansandbudgets]

Unless you do not want to damage the table, perhaps you could cut the corner off to a diagonal as well so it will be further away and also the corner will not be sticking out so far. I love how each trip we learn things about our spaces. I love that you pointed out that we all drive with unsecured items in ours cars all the time. I do not tie stuff down in the Van, if I have a major accident it will not matter if it is tied down or not.

[@janetfolkerts5827]

A dole pin glued would be an easy fix as a divider. Another idea would be is to use a putty to fill in the groves on the sides and that can be painted over. I believe changing the lid on the top of your cooler is brilliant. I use to own a travel agency and I would try to share with vacationing clients that the trip starts between the ears once you have made that decision, preparation is part of the journey make it all fun !

[@LulusWay64]

hi Janet!! "the trip starts between the ears" . . . I LOVE THAT!! 😊

[@lindamiller5489]

But just maybe the ridges are whats keeping it from flying out when driving and then u would need those dreaded bungee cords

[@LulusWay64]

OH DON'T SAY IT!! lol lol

[@aemartin2258]

@4yellowwolf Velcro was my thinking too, but she definitely need to purchase the heavy duty Velcro. PLEASE🤔 PLEASE put ur window covers up every evening , not just when the sun is strong and temperature is up. Safe travels. 💖🙏🏼

[@kaymccain1593]

Hi Lulu, I got my windows tinted on Promaster City. It helps very much with keeping heat out, and privacy!!!❤

[@LulusWay64]

hello Kay!! I don't think it's legal here in MA to get driver and passenger door windows tinted, only backseat windows and rear windows (which I don't have)!! 💕

[@donnaheinz199]

For the drawers i would use wood filler and putty knife to fill in the sides. Sand it smoothe. Paint it the same.

[@itsatale5957]

If you take the corners off of the table by your bed it may be a little more comfortable

[@georgiacorey954]

The cooler lid is air tight which keeps heat out, cool & aromas in so any critters do not come inside your home looking for food. Your diy lid sounds good in theory if you can find a way to seal it air tight. Actually, imo, a shorter cooler would be best, whatever you need to do to make it work. Maybe prep smaller portions, more often, for a smaller cooler? You know, a smaller cooler for a smaller space. Anyway im sure you will find a Lulu's Way solution.

[@melindawebb5793]

If you're using a board you might want to consider putting hinges on one side and then making a latch to lock it with a padlock or something or even a key to hold it shut down tight then your idea would work very nicely

[@kathyesargent9088]

I would put my clothes in the packs in the headliner above seats for better access and those items in the door storage❤️❤️❤️

[@monana1711]

Thanks, Lulu. Enjoy your time at home!

[@donnaheinz199]

Lulu, for oders in any refrigerator unit line the botton with clean news paper. To avoid any ink transfer onto cooler i would line bottom and sides, up so far, with foil. And maybe cover top of paper too.

[@jesusrider1]

For the red drawers get some spackle and fill in the grooves then when it drys sand it smooth.

[@drthomason7043]

Blue tack the fan frame You can control your driving but not the other drivers, there is also rough weather that can influence driving conditions. Definitely use bungees. The frig seal is custom made

[@RLeeVanCamps]

Luv the floor tile fix for the drawers😊

[@dross24MA]

Did you already fix the drawers? What about spreading wood putty on the inner facing side of the drawer to make it smooth? That could fill the "trenches" that are catching and leave the ridges at the original level. Of course, since wood putty does take paint you'd probably never even notice the change. Just a thought.

[@kimpeasester]

I love how you're finding every knook and cranny to pack something. I just love it! I couldn't believe how much extra space was on the front drawers

[@LulusWay64]

every inch counts!!!! 😊

[@elizabethcook2457]

You could also save the part of subfloor that you cut out to later place back in place, like a puzzle piece

[@donnaheinz199]

Have to consider the R value for the cooler lid, as well as glue fumes leeching into your food.

[@bonriver9420]

I like the way you think things through when troubleshooting a problem (situation). It will interesting to see how you tweak all of these situations. I love your black top and black and white pants - very chic. Keep showing us your meals; they are giving me great ideas for my meal prep. I love artichokes too; I like to change up my salads all of the time and I quite often put artichoke hearts in my salad. I also love chickpeas. Have a lovely weekend.

[@LulusWay64]

hey Bon! things are getting tweaked, stay tuned!! 😊 thanks for your compliment on my outfit, those are my most fun pants ever!!! so happy you are getting meal ideas, stay inspired! YAY 💕

[@janpiper3068]

You could have more storage by putting hinges on the top of your white cupboard. There is a lot of empty space just above the cupboard doors. Just add an internal shelf at the door level so it won't drop stuff down on the things in the bottom.

[@MsRotorwings]

Ingenious headboard. Great placement for your bed. It gives you more room in the back.

[@cheryltoole5831]

Also a wooden TV tray with folding stand. Hanging net baskets are good for fruit and veggies. Like the ones you buy for groceries.

[@fran2688]

How about have Bob trace the cooler and recess it into the floor? Yes, this would require cutting into your tile floor buttttttt🤷

[@LulusWay64]

not able to have the cooler stationery, I need to move to to get into the cubbies and then move it the other way to open the pallet cabinets doors. thanks for the suggestion though! 💕

[@lovematters7122]

Ahhhh vanlife truly is an exercise of discovery, trial and error, and imagination! It seems you must enjoy all of that to really enjoy vanlife!😊

[@LulusWay64]

very well said!! yeah, you have to be ready for it all!! 😊

[@kimpeasester]

AS ALWAYS, LOVE YOUR OUTFIT. I LOVE ALL THE CLOTHES YOU WEAR. YOU WOULD NEVER KNOW THEY'RE ALL THRIFTED

[@LulusWay64]

all of them!! it's just my thing!! thanks!!! ❤️

[@MonicaEGolak]

Hi Lulu, don´t make yourself crazy. When you´re going to drive, just before take the part of the ventilator out. When you´re park put back on place! That is all. Namaste🙏💖

[@RLeeVanCamps]

You could hinge a piece of wood on the top. When folded out viola wider shelf

[@ABCpdc]

You are such a lovely soul, welcoming any interested persons to join in your fun!!

[@debbieadair4920]

I would think Velcro circles with glue on the back would hold. At least 4 but maybe a few more? That should keep the air max frame up there.

[@meinschatzi8978]

I am going to start the comment and add as I think you would want to hear… could you use heavy duty tape on the fan frame? One the bungees, I would think you would need them on bumpy roads…. Great idea on the cooler top.

[@normaevett]

I agree that everything needs to be secured - in case of an accident! Even a small thing could hurt your eye.

[@LulusWay64]

thanks Jayne!! awareness that there is a problem is the first leg of the journey to wellness!! thanks for writing! 🌺

[@LVT2314]

Charcoal in a plastic dish will keep coolers, mobile homes , houses anything closed up for summer months vacation homes in Florida use during summer months .

[@tammygonzalez4144]

I agree with cutting the corner off your table on top of your power station, it would make it more comfortable on your leg. Could he just cut your cooler lid 2" shorter? 😊

[@vickyhenigar8339]

I so agree with you on the window covers. I made my own after watching utube. I used them all the time initially. Then found out for the most part I didn't need them for the privacy aspect. I did have my windows tinted.

[@kemicecormier5687]

I love your attention to details for comfort and practicality. Lovely build!!🙏🏽🤍

[@LulusWay64]

hello Kemice!! thanks so much!! comfort is #1 (as much comfort as you can get in an entire home in 28 sq. ft!!) LOL

[@melaniecarlisle4771]

You have such great ideas! Simple, no fuss, perfect! Great minds think alike..😊

[@LulusWay64]

thanks Melanie!!! 😊

[@elisabethreeves1786]

The wood with a screw through it toggle idea...I've been thinking of that the whole time! Another option might be some sort of childproof latch? I've got some for my cats on all my cupboards and I think they would work well enough to hold those cupboards closed. ALSO!! I very much appreciate your "live small" approach to life. I'm working on downsizing my life right now and fully believe that when you only have things you love your life is much happier.💚

[@LulusWay64]

hello Elisabeth!! thanks for your suggestions! yes, less is best!! you'll love it!! 💕

[@elsathal7359]

An old bed post could be interesting with hooks for yer clothes 💡😮🧠 better than chewing gum!😅 Thank you for sharing ✌️💞🤟

[@bubbanorth5558]

Lulu, the thing I really love about your channel is the sense of order you bring to whatever space you are living in...this really appeals to my sensibility in that regard...everything has its purpose and place and you always clean as you go. I also love that you try to tweek even the little things that you find annoying...to me, I find that the effort is always worth it in the long run. Lastly, I like your sense of humour, the way you call it like it is, and your ability to laugh at yourself...I look forward to all your videos!

[@LulusWay64]

hi Bubba!! such a lovely note you wrote me. thank you for all the sweet things you said to me! so happy you look forward to my videos!! I'm glad you are here!! Lulu 😊

[@lcalexandra359]

You are such a genuine spirit. Thank you for all your energy and videos.

[@LulusWay64]

hello Alexandra!!! thanks so much for your lovely note to me!! I appreciate it!! Lulu 💕

[@DameGarbo]

If the cooler sits lower, you have to consider if you will be as comfortable in your prep work on the counter space as you will be reaching up a bit higher. But, of course everything is subject to change as your needs change.

[@LulusWay64]

hello Dame!! you know, I did think of that and wondered. thanks for reminding me!! 😊

[@maineapple52]

Double-sided tape for the fan trim. If it can hold pictures on the wall, it should work.

[@michellehoneycutt6807]

Try nano double-sided adhesive tape for fan frame. It's washable, removeable, and traceless.

[@lindahobbs2136]

I'm watching your older videos and it's so amazing to see the evolution of your van and the ideas you came up with. Bravo, Lulu. Also, just had to tell you. I know you love zebra but that leopard blouse looks absolutely fabulous on you!!

[@LulusWay64]

thanks so much! oh I love that leopard top, thrift store find for just a fe bucks!! thanks for your nice note, I love the way my van has evolved, it's been a work in progress, likely always will be!! thanks for writing! Lulu 😊

[@jaynewarriner7214]

The cooler top idea is brilliant. Bob will be able to make it happen with you.

[@Joyv5410]

The ridges on the drawers might be what keeps them from sliding out. They get caught on each other. Just a thought.

[@caroldearheart]

That was my thought too.

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

Maybe some sort of compact hat-tree instead of a plywood vertical w hooks? Maybe twist ties instead of tape to hold the greenery in that hot corner. DIY plywood top for the cooler sounds great ... from what I can see the hinges look usable.

[@lynnbb]

Cooler Lid seat= love seat indoor/outdoor cushion .. velcro down.. 🐬🌴

[@kathyfann]

Velcro is helpful also you could take it down until you get to your destination and when fixing everything simply put it up

[@normak63]

I think having a window uncovered is a good idea. Unless someone has a torch, they really can't see you. You can see them without them knowing and keep an eye on them. Any bad move, and you're feeling unsafe.. jump into the driver seat and drive off. You and I think alike. I thought of the same thing about the cooler before you even mentioned it, and that's not the first time 😊 Look after you, Lulu ❤

[@LulusWay64]

hi Norma!! thanks for your supportive note!! I appreciate it! Lulu 😊

[@gailreese4699]

The wood Idea is wonderful.

[@ktcee803]

Here are some suggestions - Cupboard with the painting on it - if you like it, keep it. If not, why not remove it totally and put a basket there instead for your books, on one end of the table nearest the door and use the other as a table for your dish and getting out of bed? Cooler - the only way to see if the wood idea works, is to try it. Make sure theres a lip/overhang of wood around the entire unit to give it strength Remove the lid carefully and reuse it if you need to. I always use a towel on top of everything before i close the lid of our cooler. Holds in the cold in. Ive had ice last for 3 days usung the towel method. The thing about the plastic cooler lid is its thermal properties of a double layer of plastic with air between. Its good insulation. The drawers - they probably dont slide out during driving is because they are a tight fitting. If you make them slide easily, you may need to use those dreaded bungie cords!! Fan cover falling down - if you want a permanent solution, add a decent layer of silicon around the under edge. Hold it in place until its dry. Silicone is a pretty good way to glue things. I reckon youll work it all out. And when you do, we will all be taking note for when we build our campers! 😊

[@LulusWay64]

thanks so much KT, for all your suggestions, I appreciate it!! Lulu 😊

[@Bernimv]

Ayyy Lulu, so always looking forward to your videos. Your ideas for me are suggestions and so reassuring it's okay to continue bit by bit. Love your style and enthusiasm 😀 and can't forget your meal ideas Numero 1

[@debrandw246]

Your van is sriously gorgeous. I absolutely love it. It looks like a home. Looks Sooo comfortable

[@LulusWay64]

thanks so much, Debra!! I'm really loving it!! 🌺

[@thehoneyshack33]

Ms Lulu. You did an amazing job on your rebuild. My favorite space is the bed and headboard. It's cozy and cute. May I ask, how did you stick the panels to the ceiling? I love the idea and would like to try it in my van. I apologize if you've already answered this question. I'm looking forward to seeing an update on the garden.

[@LulusWay64]

hey Honey!! I used industrial strength velcro, but I'm finding I have to stick up some double-sided tape in some areas to further support it!!

[@miriamhawkins7825]

Magnets???

[@LulusWay64]

there is insulation under the panels, so the metal surface is not just below the panels!

[@HettyHartpreneur]

I love your rig Lulu, you've made it very spacious! About the fan: what about double sided tape, just like the pads that many vanlifers use? That sticks very good. Greetings from the Netherlands!

[@LulusWay64]

hello Hetty! that's a good idea, just wonder if it would stick ok to the fabric on the ceiling!! thanks for writing!! Lulu 😊

[@HettyHartpreneur]

I think you put a few small pieces at the site, so that you don't have to stick it to the fabric. I don't know if that is possible.

[@MokaByte1]

Hi. Glad you had a nice visit with your daughter. Regarding the ceiling fan: white Velcro - I would buy the adhesive kind and put it on the outer frame. It probably doesn't make much difference but I would put the fuzzy part on the ceiling. Velcro is your friend lol. Jill 😺

[@Gail-gf7km]

Your reflectix windshield covers can really help keep the van warm in cold temps if you face the shiny side to the interior so that it will reflect the heat back into the living space.

[@LulusWay64]

hi Gail!! I do realize that the window coverings are not just for privacy but for insulating as well. I used them just for that purpose when I was visiting the Grand Canyon and it was freezing cold overnight. but I haven't used them again since then. I stay quite comfortable sleeping in the cold, I have it all figured out!!! YAY!!

[@MaryWells3635]

Sand the side of the drawers smooth to get rid of the ridges.

[@clarasmith1873]

I ordered the magnetic hooks. Handy.

[@N2itively1]

How about using some of the white lattice you used on your bed for the end of the counter and add hooks to hang your stuff...it's airy and hopefully you have some left over.. just my 6th sense worth..

[@LulusWay64]

nice idea, yet it's very flimsy, not sturdy!

[@karenbreslauer2053]

Lulu. That cooler idea is a great idea. Someone suggested Velcro for the fan. I really think that would work great too. How about sanding the sides of the draws really well so they are almost flat. That will give you more room to slide the draws. Personally I’d get rid of that cabinet and table that’s blocking the bed. Later it will come to you what will work better. I find it Very interesting how you are tweaking your travel Wish I could meet you all in Maine. Maybe in the future. Karen from Florida 🌴💕

[@jennifergraham9679]

its good that you are able to figure out what works from what doesnt,looking forward to your next adventure. Enjoy your time home, see you in the next video.

[@LulusWay64]

yes Jennifer, you are right, I always figure it out!! it's half the fun!!! 💕

[@Tessienz]

I just bought a pack of magnetic hooks, small and large. Fits very strongly to the metal areas. So handy. Planning to put up net curtains to make my van more homely, take away the bareness and give a little extra daytime privacy - will use the hooks and thin dowel to hang the curtains.

[@LulusWay64]

hello!! sounds great!! those magnets coming in handy!! 😊

[@lavonnestucky5196]

Double-stick mounting tape would work for the fan, I think. It's a thin foam tape. Also, I keep thinking hinges on the top of your salad bar would allow easy access all the way to the top inside. Just a thought. I love your cooler idea with a little seat pad.

[@marymcmanus]

👍👍on top for cooler

[@ginagonzalez6547]

What is used for table, you can have it converted into a swivel top where it can swivel from the upright position to the edge of the van so you can use it from the outside of the van as you said. The top you can add another piece of wood same size as the top and use hinges so when you are not using it as a table you can fold it back so it will not be in the way and hurt your head getting in and out of the bed. Safety first and you can have a multifunctional piece of furniture that can swivel and be flipped back when not in use. Hope it helps.

[@LulusWay64]

hi Gina!! thanks for the suggestion!! Lulu 🌸

[@weaver7249]

You could use Velcro - the very strong type. I think it will work. I’m with you Lulu.

[@Noniinthebush]

I love what you’ve used there for you bed head Lulu! Watching from Australia 😊

[@waldfrauke]

The wooden lid for the cooler: brilliant.

[@GladysHill-gg8hg]

I very much enjoy your videos!

[@LulusWay64]

I'm so happy to know you enjoy my videos!! 😊

[@sjordan7085]

I really like your eclectic taste, really unique and appealing!

[@LulusWay64]

hello!! thanks so much!! I like what I like and then it all seems to come together, I'm grateful!! thanks for writing!! Lulu 🌺

[@kathyhatch8982]

I love the creativity on this channel! Lulu, NH is my ‘neck of the woods’. Can’t wait to hear about your next trip! 🤗

[@rsandy3396]

Sounds like you had a successful “shakedown cruise”. You will certainly be busy until it’s time to hit the road, again.

[@aprilbaxter2578]

That's a pretty good idea for the cooler lid! I'll come back later to see how it goes. I hope you enjoy your next trip. I'll be along for the ride (on my computer). Safe travels.

[@bethsuter4637]

By the door, where you want to add more hooks, what about using a decorative metal piece, because that is lighter and more open, plus it mirrors your headboard trellis. And if it has an intricate filigree pattern, you wouldn’t even need hooks, you could tuck all sorts of items into it, instead of adding a hook every time you want to hang something else.

[@susanamberg3960]

So for your drawer issuse, just tack that little piece of trim that you would have put in the middle to the drawer side. You could certainly do one towards the top of one and the bottom of the other.

[@Buttondown231]

I think the cooler lid idea is brilliant!