Could you live with your spouse in this semi truck that has a shower?

As the excitement of returning to the road next week builds for me, I was thinking about how different things will be this year with the new truck.   Last year we existed in a space the size of our bathroom, this year it is more like our kitchen.  It really is wonderful to have the extra space but many people have told me they can’t imagine how we live together in that small an area for days on end.  For us it is easy and actually great fun, but I know it’s not for everyone.

Before we head out I wanted to share pictures of the new truck to give you a better visual of our living space.  As well as share some information about the truck and Vince’s hours of service.

• The dimensions of the living area of the truck are:  94” length x 82” width x 84”  height (those dimensions are probably bigger than your bathroom but not your kitchen, remember that we will live in that area close to 24 hours a day and will do so for 28 days. Also Vince will live in that space approximately 296 days this year

• Our water tank holds 40 gallons plus a 10 gallon hot water tank which is usually good for two showers each and four days of household and hygiene tasks (washing dishes and teeth brushing).  Can you take a shower with a 10 gallon tank?  Trust me it takes conservation. Also winter can be a tough time to find water so we may end up showering in the truck stops

• The size of the fuel tanks are 140 gallons each and diesel is currently running approximately $3.40 a gallon ( I will let you do the math and bet you will think about that cost the next time you are at a gas pump)

• Vince can drive 11 hours in a 14 hour period and then must take a 10 hour break.

• Most of our driving is overnight when Vince is on tour because shows load out in the evening after the last show and we are usually expected either the next day or day after in the next city for an early morning load in. (Adjusting to the nocturnal life is always tricky for me so stay tuned)

I can’t wait to take you with us on this adventure.  Our first stop is York, PA where “Madagascar” will begin its tour of the country.  The first move is always interesting because it is the first time the crew has to figure out how to load everything into the trucks.  If you have ever moved you know how tricky loading a truck can be, now imagine trying to load four semis - it takes a lot of geometry and luck.

All this information may prompt some questions; if so please post them in the comment section and I will be happy answer them.  You never know others may be wondering the same thing.