Welcome to my blog. Those of you who know me already know my deal. But for those of you who don’t, here’s the rundown.
I am a recovering New Englander living in the mountains of Tennessee, in a small (some might call it tiny, I call it too big because I’m the one who has to clean it) home that I have been renovating myself for the last several years. Though still not quite done, I have – for better or worse – decided to take on yet another major construction project.
Anyone who knows my parents, who knows my family, knows that this is just what we do. We fix houses, never quite finishing before we find another house to “fix.” The projects never end. Even when one ends, another is still halfway done, and yet another is just beginning. It’s how we roll.
Only this time, I am breaking the mold! I always was a rebel.
Instead of a house, I will be “fixing” a school bus. I am (eventually) trading in my sprawling 550-square-foot home for a 100-square-foot 5-window short bus.
Truth is, I am a wanderer. A traveler. A nomad. Who is stuck on a mountain. Don’t get me wrong, I love it here, always have always will. But lately I’ve just been feeling the need to take my interests more mobile.
Along for the ride, though they don’t know it yet, are my five cats. All five are rescues who decided they liked the look of my little home in the woods.
These kitties are the whole reason for the bus conversion plan. I very well couldn’t fit them all in a backpack, and even an RV wouldn’t allow me to provide them with some of the amenities they will have with a fully-customized build. And staying put for another decade or so is just not an option for my own sanity. So here we are, getting ready to build five cats a home on wheels.
And I’ll be honest, I don’t really know what I’m doing! OK, I know some things, a lot of things, actually, but a lot of this is also really going to be out of my comfort zone. In a good way (I hope).
It’s going to be one heck of a journey, so buckle up with some of those non-existent school bus seatbelts, hold on tight to the seat in front of you, and enjoy the ride!
Hello friends!
Mama Kitties
The OG
Mama was hungry, tired and very stressed when she first came on the scene. I still remember how exciting it was the first time she let someone pet her! She still loves to eat, but has also learned to love sitting in laps and getting pets. She’s come a long way. But she’s definitely a ginger, who sometimes lends that one brain cell to her son.
No. 2
The Tortie Troublemaker
No. 2 as a kitten was the little sidekick to the alpha male baby (who was adopted into another family). She was always right behind him – they made a bold, fearless pair. Hence her name. She came knocking on my door one day – literally – and has been my favorite ever since (don’t tell the others).
Bubba Boy
Big ball of kitty putty
This boy is the sweetest, but also the biggest bully to his sisters. He’s terrified of strangers, but also completely trusting when I hold him like a little baby. He loves cuddles, belly rubs, and spider plants. Sometimes he gets a turn with the Orange Cat Brain Cell, but other times I have to literally show him how to eat his treats.
Squeaky McSqueakers
The timid one
Squeaky is a good little kitty, but she is very shy, very timid, and does NOT like to be held. She’d the only one who really does not care to climb up into my lap. Surprisingly, she is the hunter of the group. I think travel may stress her some, but if she has a window with a view of birds and squirrels, and an occasional bug or mouse to torment, she’ll be happy.
Patches
Better known as “Porkchop”
She is the youngest of the kitties and the most recent addition to the clan. She’s the most friendly of all of them, and could not wait to move in and be an indoor kitty! She loves headbutts and climbing all over my lap every time I log into a Zoom meeting.
Pokey
The servant
I’m just here to do their bidding.
Five Cats on the Run
Follow along as I convert a retired school bus into a home on wheels for me and five – yes five! – cats.
Join me on this exciting journey as I share my adventures in converting a school bus into a cozy home for me and my furry friends.
Features Column
Learn about the unique features of my converted school bus home and how it provides a comfortable and safe
Discover the innovative solutions I’ve implemented in my school bus conversion to create a functional and stylish living space for me and
Features Column
Find out more about the design choices and practical considerations that went into creating my dream home on
Get inspired by the creative solutions and design ideas I’ve incorporated into my school bus conversion to make it a truly unique and
Join me on my journey as I convert a retired school bus into a
With your support, we can make this dream a reality. Follow along and be a part of our adventure!
Your contribution will help us create a safe and comfortable space for our feline friends. Together,
Do you accept reservations?
Yes, we accept reservations. Please call us or book online through our website.
What are your operating hours?
We are open from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday. We’re closed on Sunday. Holiday hours may vary, so please call or check our website for specific information on those dates.
Do you have vegetarian, vegan, or other special dietary options?
Yes, we offer an array of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. If you have other dietary requirements, please inform your server, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Is parking available at the restaurant?
Yes, we have a parking lot adjacent to the restaurant, and street parking is also available. Valet parking is offered on weekends.
Can I order food for takeout or delivery?
Absolutely! You can order online through our website or by calling us. We offer both takeout and delivery within a specific radius.
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Sarah Johnson
Owner, Sarah’s Artisanal Bakery