In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Making the Most of Our Last Weeks in Duluth

I’m trying to figure out how it’s possible that in just one week, we’ll be hitting the road for another season of visiting new places, experiencing new adventures, reconnecting with families we met last spring, and hopefully meeting some new ones along the way. Our summer in Duluth went by far too quickly, and as our time here comes to an abrupt end, I’m holding space for both the excitement and the sadness that come with leaving. I truly love this life we’ve created, but that doesn’t make it any easier to leave behind people we love dearly. As quickly as our summer seemed to fly by, I feel like we did our best to fit in as much as we could and soak up as much time with family and friends as possible—and August was no exception.

A Little Family Time Goes a Long Way

Our month began with some special visitors from Oregon—two of my dad’s cousins and their wives. It was so much fun to see them again and have the chance to spend some time together. We first connected with them last October when we were traveling through Oregon and met up with my parents in Albany. It was one of those unexpected perks of this life we’ve chosen—being able to reconnect with family in places we might not otherwise have a reason to visit. We’re hoping our travels next spring will take us through their area again, so hopefully this wasn’t the last time we’ll get to see them for a while.

We also got to have my brother up in Duluth for a couple of days, and that was something I was especially grateful for. My brother is almost four years older than me, and growing up, we were never particularly close. Over the last couple of years, though, our relationship has changed in the best possible way. Somewhere along the way, we went from simply being siblings to actually becoming friends, and I’m incredibly grateful for that. He is one of my favorite people, and I always love the time we get to spend together. We’re already looking forward to seeing him and my sister-in-law again next week on our way to Colorado!

Our Annual Corny Tradition

Our first weekend of the month was spent in one of our favorite places—Cornucopia, Wisconsin! This is a tradition that started about 14 years ago as a way to celebrate my parents’ anniversary. Although our group has gotten a little smaller over the years, the amount of fun we have certainly hasn’t! We love our Corny weekend, and there’s something special about returning to the same place year after year and knowing that the weekend will be filled with some of our favorite things. When the weather cooperates, we spend plenty of time on the beautiful sandy beach, wander into town for coffee, indulge in homemade ice cream sandwiches, and do a little shopping at the general store. Saturday always includes a stop at the Corny Day flea market and vendor booths, followed by the parade. It’s simple, familiar, and a little bit nostalgic—and we look forward to it every year.

Sometimes the Plans Just Don’t Work Out

We had hoped to do a little exploring of the Apostle Islands this year and spend a few days out on the water, after leaving Corny, but it just didn’t work out. And honestly, that’s okay. One of the things I’m learning about this life is that not everything has to happen exactly when you hope it will. There’s always next summer, and we’re already making plans for next summer’s adventures—including some time exploring with our catamaran friends!

Making Time for the Friendships That Matter

The rest of the month we made sure to make plenty of time for Trygg to connect with some of his school friends before we hit the road. He enjoyed a few playdates with school friends as well as some of our family friends. I know he’ll miss them once we leave, but thankfully, this life allows us to stay connected in lots of different ways. We’ll send postcards, try to get together if we make it back during the winter months, and definitely plan to reconnect again next summer. Leaving is never easy, especially when you’ve built friendships that matter, but I’m grateful that we’ve found ways to make the miles between us feel a little smaller.

The Kind of Friends You Can Always Come Back To

Towards the end of the month, I enjoyed a girls’ weekend with four of my lifelong friends. (Kelly, we missed you!) These are the same friends I was able to connect with when we passed through the Cities on our travels back to Duluth this spring. We try to get together at least once a year for a weekend of catching up, relaxing, exploring, and lots of laughter. My parents graciously let us use their home as our meeting spot this year, and it was such a good weekend. Life has taken each of us down different paths, and we’ve all found ourselves in different seasons over the years. Yet somehow, when we get together, it feels like no time has passed at all. There’s something pretty special about friendships that have grown alongside you—people who remember the younger versions of you, have walked through different chapters with you, and are still there to laugh with you through whatever season comes next. I’m so thankful that we continue to make the time for these weekends and for the friendship that has carried us through so many years. I left our weekend feeling refreshed, grateful, and already looking forward to the next time we can all be together.

A Few Last-Minute Brinkley Projects

Of course, I had to fit in a couple of last-minute projects on the Brinkley because that’s just how I roll! We decided to remove the TV, and I am really glad we did. It looks so much better without that giant TV taking up so much space in our living area. We also decided to paint the cabinets a nice beige color that complements our kitchen cabinets, and we hung our electronic picture frame and some new Mixtiles in the space as well. Eventually, we’ll add a pull-down screen and projector, but for now, we’re loving how the space has turned out!

The last project we tackled—although it isn’t installed yet—was adding a live-edge slab where our table is located. I decided to add a little wood-burning to the slab and then coated it with epoxy. It didn’t turn out perfectly, but I think it turned out pretty well, and I absolutely love that it tells our family’s story so well. I’ll share pictures of the finished project in a future post!

The Final Countdown

Although we’ll be leaving in just a week, our last week is full of things to do! Our boat got pulled and put on the hard for winter storage, which means we now need to build the structure that supports our winter cover. I’m really hoping I did a good job labeling all the parts last fall when we assembled it for the first time! We also need to winterize the boat and get everything covered for the winter.

And, of course, we need to make sure everything in the Brinkley is ready to go and still working properly before we hit the road next Tuesday morning. Our goal is to have everything done and ready to go by Friday because this weekend we have family and friends coming to visit. So, basically, there’s no shortage of things to keep us busy!

Ready for the Road, Not Quite Ready to Say Goodbye

It’s hard to believe that in just a few days we’ll be pulling out of Duluth and heading into another season of adventure. I’m excited for the places we’ll go, the people we’ll see, the new friends we’ll make, and all the stories we’ll collect along the way. But I’m also going to miss the people who made this summer so special. I think that’s one of the hardest—and most beautiful—parts of this life. We get to experience so much, but it also means saying goodbye more often than we’d sometimes like.  So, we’re soaking up these last few days in Duluth, finishing the never-ending to-do list, hugging our people a little tighter, and getting ready to hit the road.

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy—but it is ours. It’s filled with unexpected friendships, family time that feels even more precious because we know it’s temporary, familiar places we return to year after year, and new adventures waiting just around the corner. We’ve learned that plans don’t always work out, projects don’t always turn out perfectly, and leaving is rarely easy. But we’ve also learned that every season has something to teach us, every adventure adds another chapter to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take. 

Why did I think July would feel slower and more relaxed than June?! We’re almost halfway through August, and I’m still trying to figure out where July went!

July was full of visiting friends, becoming South Dakota residents, avoiding wildfire smoke, and finally getting to enjoy some time on our boat. It certainly wasn’t the slow, relaxing month I somehow convinced myself it would be—but it was a good one!

Celebrating the Fourth with Friends

We started July by visiting some very special people. One of my best friends and her family live in southern Minnesota, and we had originally planned to visit them on our way back to Duluth this spring. The timing didn’t end up working out, but honestly, I think it was for the best because instead, we got to spend the Fourth of July weekend with them!

They have two daughters, one a year older than Trygg and one a year younger, and the three of them get along so well. It’s been really fun to watch Trygg reconnect with old friends after being away for so many months.

We spent a couple of hours at the local pool our first day, followed by a cookout and a nice, relaxing evening. Saturday morning was another slow one before we headed to a nearby town for their Fourth of July parade. For such a small town, it was a very impressive parade! The kids had a great time collecting candy, freezies, and even hot dogs along the parade route. And somehow, the rain held off until the parade ended and we were safely back in our vehicles—perfect timing!

After the parade, we headed back to our friends’ house for some downtime, snacks, and a chance to regroup before heading back out for fireworks that evening. The fireworks display was amazing, and it really was the perfect way to end the day.

Sunday morning, we all slept in and enjoyed one more slow morning together before we started getting organized and packed up to head to South Dakota.

Ace, Ryan, Eleanore, and Ruby, thank you for such a fun Fourth of July weekend! We loved getting to spend time with you all and can’t wait for our next visit—hopefully next spring!

We’re Officially South Dakota Residents!

After saying our goodbyes, we headed to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for the night. We had appointments the next morning to officially become South Dakota residents!

Despite making two phone calls ahead of time to make absolutely sure we had all the correct paperwork and documentation, I was still convinced we were going to get to our appointments and discover we were missing something. Thankfully, we weren’t!

The whole process was actually pretty easy. South Dakota even prints your driver’s license right there, so you walk out with it in hand instead of waiting weeks—or months, as we were used to in Minnesota.

And just like that, we officially became South Dakota residents!

With our shiny new licenses in hand, we climbed back into our vehicle and made the six-hour drive back to Duluth.

Finally, the Boat Is in the Water!

That Friday, we FINALLY got our boat in the water!

It was a very exciting—and very long-awaited—day.

So, into the water it went.

And while we were finally getting the boat ready for some summer adventures, Trygg, my mom, and I had a little adventure of our own planned up the North Shore.

A Quick Getaway to Tofte

At last year’s fishing tournament, Trygg was lucky enough to win a two-night hotel stay in Tofte, Minnesota. With summer quickly getting away from us, we decided it was time to finally use it!

So, my mom, Trygg, and I headed north for a little getaway. Even though we had two nights at the hotel, we decided to only stay for one because we had company coming that weekend—including one of Trygg’s favorite people—and we definitely didn’t want to miss that!

It may have only been one night, but we made the most of it. We grabbed takeout from a local restaurant and enjoyed a lazy evening at the hotel. The next morning, we walked back to the same restaurant for coffee and some delicious morning treats before slowly making our way back toward home.

Of course, there was no reason to hurry home, so we made a stop along the way to do a little crawfish catching. Because apparently, when you’re traveling with Trygg, even the drive home can turn into an adventure!

That weekend, we got to enjoy time with our family friends who came to visit. Charlee is four years older than Trygg, but the two of them have always been good buddies. Maybe it’s because they’re both only children, but despite the age difference, they’ve always connected really well and genuinely enjoy spending time together.

It was a pretty simple few days—a quick night away, good food, crawfish catching, and time with people we love—but those are often some of the best parts of our summers in Minnesota.

Our Tofte getaway came courtesy of last year’s fishing tournament, and before we knew it, it was almost time for this year’s tournament. We were planning to take the boat to Silver Bay and make a weekend out of it. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans.

When the Smoke Rolled In

Two days before we were supposed to leave for Silver Bay, wildfire smoke settled over the area—and it was unlike anything we had ever experienced before.

The air quality was literally off the charts and well beyond the hazardous level. With Derek’s asthma, there was absolutely no way we were going to attempt the trip. Even being outside for short periods of time while wearing a respirator was too much for his asthma.

It definitely wasn’t the weekend we had hoped for. We were disappointed to miss the fishing tournament and the time with our family, but we kept reminding ourselves of the bigger picture. We were safe. Our home was safe. All of our belongings were safe. So many people affected by the wildfires in Canada couldn’t say the same.

Yes, we were bummed to miss our trip, but in the grand scheme of things, missing a fishing tournament was certainly not the end of the world.

Thankfully, Trygg was still able to head up with my parents. He got to spend time with one of his second cousins and even managed to get some fishing in Sunday morning. He didn’t win any prizes for the fish he caught, but that didn’t seem to matter—he still had a great time!

While the smoke may have changed some of our plans, thankfully it didn’t stick around forever, and we still had plenty more packed into the last couple weeks of July.

A Quick Trip to the Cities

The second-to-last weekend in July, we made a quick trip down to the Cities to see a play written and directed by one of my lifelong friends and her husband. Since it was just a one-day, one-night trip, we tried to pack in as much as we could, but the main reason for the trip was the play—and I am SO glad we went!

It was amazing, to say the least. I truly have no idea how they do it! Every year they come up with an entirely new play, write the whole thing themselves, write the music, choreograph everything, and then somehow direct around 50 kids and turn it all into an incredible production. I’m exhausted just thinking about it!

The entire play was so well done, and it was pretty special to get to be there and see everything they had worked so hard to create come together on stage.

I think Trygg enjoyed it just as much as we did because he has already asked me multiple times if we’ll be going to next year’s play too. So apparently, this may need to become an annual tradition!

Reconnecting with an Old Friend

Another highlight of July for Trygg was getting to reconnect with his friend Mara.

Mara, Trygg, and one other friend attended preschool together when they were three and four years old, right in the middle of Covid. It was just the three of them and their awesome teacher! They all continued going to North Shore Community School together and have remained good buddies over the years. Even while we’re traveling, Trygg stays connected with both of his preschool pals, sending them postcards from the places we visit along the way. I love that a friendship that started with just three little preschoolers during such an unusual time has continued all these years later.

This summer, we were lucky enough to get together with Mara two days in a row! The first day, she came over to my parents’ house to catch frogs, play outside, and, of course, get a tour of our home on wheels.

The next day, Mara’s sister and another friend joined us for a little crawfish hunting.

I know what you’re thinking…Trygg sure knows how to show a girl a good time. Frog hunting and crawfish catching—oh my!

Mara was a trooper, even if those probably wouldn’t have been her first choices for how to spend a couple of summer afternoons! Regardless, it was so much fun watching the two of them reconnect and pick up their friendship again.

One of the harder parts of traveling is being away from friends, so these opportunities to reconnect when we’re back in Minnesota are pretty special. We’re hoping we can squeeze in one more get-together before it’s time for us to hit the road again!

And Just Like That…July Is Gone

At the beginning of this post, I asked why I ever thought July would feel slower and more relaxed than June. Well, after sitting down and writing about everything we managed to pack into the month, I think I found my answer as to why it went by so quickly!

July definitely felt busy at times, but looking back, it was the good kind of busy. We spent time with friends and family, became South Dakota residents, finally got the boat in the water, squeezed in a little getaway, reconnected with old friends, worked around wildfire smoke, and made a lot of really great memories along the way.

So maybe July wasn’t the slow, relaxing month I thought it would be—but it was a pretty great one.

Looking Ahead

Well…August is already almost halfway over, so clearly time isn’t planning to slow down anytime soon!

We kicked off the month with out-of-state guests, followed by me leading VBS for our church and our annual trip to Cornucopia, Wisconsin. There’s plenty to share about all of that, but I’ll save those stories for our next post!

The next few weeks will also bring a lot of preparation. We’ll be getting the boat ready to be pulled out of the water and put into storage—which seems absolutely ridiculous considering we JUST got it in the water! We’ll also start getting the Brinkley ready for departure day, which is somehow only four weeks away.

But more than anything, we’ll be trying to soak up as much time with family as we possibly can before our summer in Duluth comes to an end and it’s time for the next chapter of our travels to begin.

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy—but it is ours, and it’s filled with so much more than we ever could have imagined. Through it all, we’re reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds another chapter to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

When you live in your RV full-time, it isn’t just a camper anymore—it’s your home. And just like any home, we wanted it to reflect our personalities and work better for the way we live.

None of the changes were necessary. Brinkley builds a beautiful camper, and we loved the layout from day one. But after living in it for months, we started noticing little things we’d tweak if this were a traditional house. So that’s exactly what we did.

Today I thought I’d take you on a room-by-room tour of everything we’ve changed so far.

Our Bedroom

One of the first rooms we tackled was our bedroom.

The biggest change was painting the cabinetry. While the original gray color was plenty nice, we wanted the room to feel a little cozier and more like “us.” A fresh coat of paint completely transformed the space without changing the functionality.  It still amazes me how much paint can change the feel of a room.  As I said in our previous blog post, we received some less than helpful advice for painting over the gray color and it did not turn out exactly as we were hoping.  We know the paint may not hold up and we may need to sand, prime and repaint some day.  For now, we’re just going to let it as is and enjoy the coziness of the space!

Our Bathroom

The other room we tackled first was our bathroom.  Just like our bedroom, we know the paint will not hold up long term and when the time comes, we will sand and redo everything properly.  For now, it is what it is, flaws and all!

Just like the bedroom, we painted the cabinetry the same cozy green, but we didn’t stop there. We also added wallpaper to bring in a little personality.

Wallpaper in an RV might sound a little intimidating, but it was actually a fairly simple project and it made a huge impact. It’s one of my favorite spaces in the camper now.

While we were at it, we also made one change that wasn’t just about looks—we removed the glass shower doors…Okay… maybe it was about looks after all. I was completely over staring at water spots on the glass no matter how often I cleaned them!

Now, I know some of you are probably thinking, “What’s the big deal? Just wipe them down after every shower!” And while that’s certainly an option, if I’m being honest, I don’t want to wipe down shower doors every single day. More realistically, I don’t want to remind my 9-year-old—or Derek—to wipe them down after every shower either!

By replacing the glass doors with a shower curtain, we’ve eliminated the constant battle against water spots and made cleaning so much simpler. As an added bonus, we also removed a little unnecessary weight from the RV. When you live and travel full-time, every pound matters, so we’re always looking for small ways to lighten the load without sacrificing comfort.

The Kitchen

The kitchen was another space that got a fresh coat of paint.

Since it’s where we spend so much of our time, we wanted it to be a color we really enjoy.  As I said in our previous blog post, we actually used the same color we painted the kitchen cabinets in our house before we sold it.  I loved the color and did not get to enjoy it nearly long enough so I decided the best way to make our Brinkley kitchen feel like home was to paint it the same color.  And I am so glad we did, I absolutely love how it turned out and it looks great with the countertops and backsplash. 

One of my favorite finishing touches was hanging the painting Derek’s dad created of our favorite boondocking spot in Arizona. We’ve made so many wonderful memories there and every time I look at it, I’m reminded of peaceful desert sunsets, wide-open skies, and why we fell in love with this lifestyle in the first place. The rich blues and warm desert tones in the painting seem to come alive against the darker wall!

One thing we haven’t touched yet is the TV wall.

Believe it or not, this is one design decision Derek and I can’t seem to agree on! Normally we’re on the same page when it comes to colors and design ideas, but this wall has us both stumped.

So we’re throwing it out to all of you…

What would you do with the TV wall?

Paint it? Wallpaper? Wood slats? Something completely different?  I would love to paint it a deep charcoal/black color and then add wood slats to make the space feel a bit warmer and give it a bit of a retro feel.  Derek does not love that idea…I am thinking it has more to do with the amount of work involved and less to do with the actual design idea! 

Leave your ideas in the comments—we’d love the inspiration!

Trygg’s Bathroom

I think this might be the most fun transformation in the whole camper.

We painted the trim and bathroom door this blue color that Trygg picked out himself, but the biggest improvement was getting rid of the fold-down sink. While it was a clever space-saving idea, it just wasn’t very practical for everyday use.

In its place, we installed the cutest little sink along with a smaller medicine cabinet that fits the space much better.

To finish it off, we added a playful fish wallpaper that gives the room so much character. It’s fun, cheerful, and feels perfect for a kid’s space.

Trygg’s Bedroom

Once we finished Trygg’s bathroom, it only made sense to carry the same fun theme into his bedroom.

The first thing we changed was all of the gray trim. We painted it the same cheerful blue as the bathroom door and trim, which instantly brightened the room and tied the two spaces together. It’s amazing how something as simple as changing the trim color can completely transform the feel of a room.

To add a little more personality, we installed a section of fish wallpaper that coordinates with the bathroom without being overwhelming. It adds just the right amount of color and makes the room feel fun and inviting.

But we didn’t stop with paint and wallpaper.

One of the biggest changes we made was removing the two sofas that originally sat underneath Trygg’s loft bed. While the extra sleeping space might have come in handy if we ever had overnight guests, the reality is that it’s almost always just the three of us. Instead of keeping furniture we rarely used “just in case,” we decided to make the space work better for our everyday life.

After removing the sofas, we lowered Trygg’s bed down to where the sofas had been attached. Now he can climb into bed without needing a step stool, which has been a nice improvement. The extra floor space also gave us room for his new cozy chair that folds out into a bed—a perfect spot for reading, relaxing, or hanging out.

One unexpected bonus was finally having a place to hang Trygg’s hammock. It has quickly become his favorite spot in the camper, and you’ll usually find him snuggled up there with a good book.

We’re not quite finished with this room yet, either. Our next project is to install a fold-down desk on one of the walls under his bed so he’ll have a dedicated space for homeschooling, building LEGO creations, and all of the other projects that seem to spread across the camper!

But my favorite part of the room isn’t something Derek or I did—it’s what Trygg did himself.

He carefully picked out and placed all of the sea creature decals on his walls, creating his own little underwater world. Watching him decide where each fish, octopus, turtle, and other sea creatures should go made the room even more special. Now every time he climbs into bed, he’s surrounded by something he helped create, and I think that’s what truly makes it feel like his room.

It’s colorful, playful, and full of personality—just like Trygg.

Making It Ours

One of the things we’ve learned over the past year is that living in a smaller space doesn’t mean giving up the feeling of home.

In fact, because we spend every day here, the little details matter even more.

Each project has made our Brinkley feel a little more personal, a little more functional, and a lot more like our home.

And while we’ve crossed quite a few projects off the list, we’re definitely not finished yet. We still have that TV wall to figure out (seriously…send us your ideas!), and I’m sure there will be plenty more little projects along the way.

One thing is certain—we’re having a lot of fun making this little home on wheels uniquely ours.

Have a favorite transformation? We’d love to hear which room you like best!

It’s hard to believe June has already come and gone. I knew these summer months would fly by, but I’m still amazed at how quickly it’s happening. Somehow, we’ve already turned the calendar to July, and while I’m hoping it feels just a little slower, I have a feeling it probably won’t!

June was packed with summer camp, swimming lessons, RV projects, boat projects, and soaking up as much time with family as we could.

Camp Days & Swimming Lessons

June was an incredible month for Trygg.

He spent four wonderful weeks at Camp Milkweed in Two Harbors, and he absolutely loved every minute of it. His days were filled with catching bugs and critters, playing soccer, relaxing in hammocks, and simply getting to be a kid outdoors. There’s something so special about watching children spend their days exploring in nature instead of staring at screens. One of my favorite parts was seeing him reconnect with friends from last summer while also making new ones along the way. I’m so grateful he had the opportunity to attend camp again this year.

For the first three weeks of camp, Trygg’s days didn’t end there. After camp, we headed straight to swimming lessons. Even after spending the entire day outside, he continued working hard in the pool and has become an even stronger swimmer and diver. He’s excited to continue lessons throughout July—this time without a full day of camp beforehand!

As much as Trygg loved June, I think he’s looking forward to a little slower pace and some downtime this month.

Making Our House Feel Like Home

While Trygg was busy making memories at camp, Derek and I were busy with…paint. Lots and lots of paint.

We tackled our kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanity, bedroom cabinets and trim, and all of the trim in Trygg’s room. Unfortunately, our painting adventure didn’t exactly get off to the best start. We followed some advice that, in hindsight, wasn’t the greatest, so our bedroom and bathroom didn’t turn out quite as well as we’d hoped and may not hold up as long as we’d like. Time will tell, and if we need to redo them someday, we will.

Thankfully, by the time we reached the kitchen, we had learned from our mistakes. We did everything the right way, and we absolutely love how it turned out.

Some people might wonder why we’d spend so much time painting the cabinetry in a brand-new fifth wheel.  The answer is simple: because it’s our home.  Yes, it’s an RV, but it’s also where we live every day. We want it to feel like us.

We even painted the kitchen cabinets the same color we had in our house before we hit the road. It was one of my favorite things about our old kitchen, and since we didn’t get to enjoy it for nearly as long as we’d planned, it felt special bringing that little piece of home with us.

For our bedroom and bathroom, we chose a calming green that makes the space feel peaceful and cozy. We also added some fun retro wallpaper to the bathroom—and discovered Derek is actually pretty talented at hanging wallpaper! Who knew?

One of my favorite projects was completely transforming Trygg’s bathroom. We removed the fold-down sink, added wallpaper, and installed what might just be the cutest sink ever made. The space is so much more functional now, and we’re both thrilled with how it turned out.

I’ll be sharing a full blog post soon with all of the renovations and before-and-after photos!

Projects on Land… and on the Water

Apparently one painting project wasn’t enough, because we also decided to paint our boat this summer.

Progress has been slower than we’d hoped thanks to the weather. While most people think of June as warm and sunny, Lake Superior had other plans. There have been plenty of days at the marina where temperatures barely reached the low 50s—definitely not ideal painting weather.

Despite the less than ideal temps, we’re making steady progress and hope to wrap everything up within the next week.

Painting wasn’t the only boat project on the list, either. We also tackled replacing all six chain plates—the long stainless-steel supports that help hold the mast in place. It was a big job, but one we’re glad is behind us.  

Of course, no boat project is complete without at least one mishap. If you’re wondering whether getting hit in the face by a chain plate hurts, the answer is a definite yes. Don’t ask me how I know! Thankfully, I was incredibly lucky—it missed my eyeball by about two inches. It could have been so much worse, and I was very grateful it ended with nothing more than a sore face and a story to tell.

Originally, we had hoped to repower the boat with new motors this summer, but as the weeks have disappeared, we’ve decided we’d rather get the boat in the water and spend the rest of the summer sailing instead of working. New motors can wait until next year.

Sometimes the best decision is knowing when to stop adding to the project list and start enjoying the reason you own the boat in the first place.

Finding the Balance

Every once in a while someone says,

“I thought you sold your house to simplify your life and have fewer projects.”

They’re not wrong—we do have fewer day-to-day responsibilities than we used to.

But the reality is, whenever you own something, there will always be maintenance and projects. Whether it’s a house, an RV, or a sailboat, things need attention.

The difference is that these are projects we genuinely enjoy.  Truthfully, we didn’t sell our house because we thought life would become easier.  We sold it because we wanted more freedom.

We wanted to explore this beautiful country, spend more time together as a family, and create experiences instead of routines.  And that’s exactly what we’re doing.

There will always be another project waiting for us, but there will also always be another harbor to sail into, another hiking trail to explore, another campground to discover, and another memory waiting to be made.

We’re learning that balance isn’t about eliminating responsibilities—it’s about making sure they never keep us from living the life we dreamed about.

I’m also incredibly grateful that we get to spend these summer months parked on my parents’ property. It adds such a wonderful balance to this lifestyle. We get to reconnect with family and friends, enjoy the familiarity of “home” for a season, and still look forward to setting out on new adventures when September arrives.

Looking Ahead to July

July is already shaping up to be another busy month.

We’re planning a boat trip to Silver Bay Marina for the fishing tournament, where we’ll meet up with my parents, my aunt and uncle, and some family friends for a weekend of fishing, sailing, and relaxing on the lake.

Later in the month, we’ll make a trip down to the Twin Cities to get new tires on the truck, visit the homeschool store, and see a play directed by one of my childhood friends.

Somewhere in between all of that, we’re hoping to spend as many days on the water as possible before it’s time to hit the road again in early September.

If June taught us anything, it’s that summer doesn’t wait.

So we’re going to do our best to slow down, soak it all in, and enjoy every moment and adventure we can.

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy—but it is ours, and it’s filled with so much more than we ever could have imagined. Through it all, we’re reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds another chapter to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

An Unexpected Stop in Nebraska

After abruptly leaving Colorado to escape an incoming snowstorm, our unplanned route landed us in Big Springs, Nebraska.

One of my favorite tools for life on the road — even though we do not use it often — is Harvest Hosts. If you are not familiar with it, Harvest Hosts is a membership-based RV camping program that gives self-contained RVers access to unique overnight stays at wineries, farms, breweries, museums, and other small businesses across North America. Instead of paying campground fees, members stay for free and support the host business by making a purchase.

Harvest Hosts absolutely saved the day for us after a long travel day on Saturday, April 25. I was struggling to find a campground, so I decided to search for a Harvest Host instead and stumbled upon an absolute gem: Our Lavender Co.

Finding Harvest Hosts that can accommodate our new rig size is definitely becoming more of a challenge, but Our Lavender Co. had plenty of room and did not disappoint. Since it was April, nothing was blooming yet, but we still got to tour their incredible geothermal greenhouse, browse their adorable shop filled with all things lavender, and wake up to fresh homemade cinnamon rolls from our host the next morning.

One of my favorite parts of traveling is hearing the “why” behind small businesses like this one. It was really neat to learn the story behind their farm and what inspired them to create it. We are hoping to stop back in September on our way back to Colorado so we can experience the lavender fields in full bloom.

Gravel Roads & Rainy Detours

The following morning, after our delicious homemade cinnamon rolls, it was time to hit the road again. Once again, we did not know exactly where we were headed, but we knew which direction we needed to travel — and at that point, that was all that mattered.

Most of the day was spent driving through rain while searching for a place to camp for the night. Eventually, our search led us to Maskenthine Reservoir. The pictures online looked beautiful and peaceful, but what we did not realize was that getting there involved quite a bit of gravel road driving. We also did not realize Nebraska was quite so hilly!

Let’s just say that rainy, sloppy, hilly gravel roads made for a very exciting arrival. Thank goodness for four-wheel drive and Derek’s driving skills! Under different circumstances — better weather and a little more preparation with groceries and water — this would have been an amazing spot to settle in and enjoy for a few days. Unfortunately, that was not the case for us, so it became a quick overnight stay instead.

Pivoting Yet Again

We woke up extremely early the next morning so we could get a few hours of travel in before Derek needed to work for the day. We stopped in Vermillion, South Dakota, hoping to set up camp for a day or two, but unfortunately the campground was too small… or maybe we are just too big now! Either way, we were not fitting.

So, we improvised.

We found a grocery store parking lot so Derek could set up his workstation, Trygg found a quiet space to work on homeschool, and I tackled some much-needed grocery shopping.

At this point, we thought our next stop would be Sioux Falls so we could switch our Minnesota driver’s licenses over to South Dakota and officially become South Dakota residents. However, after a phone call to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, we learned that most locations were booked out until mid-to-late June for appointments.

So once again, we pivoted — which honestly seemed to become the theme of this entire stretch of our adventure.

We had originally planned to visit Derek’s sister and her family the following week, but plans are simply that… plans. After Derek finished work for the day, we continued on and eventually arrived in Truman, Minnesota, to spend a few days with family.

Trygg was beyond excited to see his cousins again!

One of the things I love most about staying at Derek’s sister’s house is what we call “free ranging.” The kids spend hours outside running around, using their imaginations, and simply enjoying being together. They check in when they need to, but for the most part they are outside playing, exploring, and just being kids.

In a world filled with screens and schedules, it is one of my absolute favorite things to watch.

Northbound to Duluth

After a fun few days with cousins, we continued our journey north. We had originally hoped to stop and spend a few days with some very good friends along the way. But because we ended up running almost a week ahead of schedule, we decided to postpone our visit until later this summer when our schedules line up a little better.

Instead, we made an unexpected stop in Watertown, Minnesota — the town where I grew up. My parents happened to be there for the weekend for a celebration of life and some family time, so it ended up being the perfect place to slow down for a few days.

Between seasonal openings and site size restrictions, we were struggling to find a campground nearby that could actually accommodate us. Thankfully, a longtime family friend generously offered us a parking spot on their beautiful property on Swede Lake, and honestly, it could not have worked out better. It was peaceful, relaxing, and exactly what we needed after several busy travel days. Ann & Mark, thank you for letting us moochdock, we hope to visit again soon!

One of the highlights of our stop was getting together with four of my lifelong friends (Kelly, we missed you!). The six of us grew up together — not only going to school together, but also spending countless hours side by side in the gym training for gymnastics year-round.

I left feeling incredibly grateful for our friendship and so thankful we were able to spend time together while I was back in the area.

After a few relaxing days, it was time to continue our journey to Trygg’s most anticipated destination: Duluth!

We were arriving a week ahead of schedule, and, even better, we made it back to Duluth in time to celebrate Trygg’s birthday just as we had promised him. (We’ve already warned him that next year’s birthday may look a little different, hopefully somewhere much warmer!)

To say my parents were excited to have us back in Duluth would be an understatement! As happy and supportive as they are of our nomadic lifestyle, they were more than ready to have us parked in their backyard — literally — for the summer months ahead.

And honestly, Trygg could hardly wait to get back. He had been counting down the days until he could see Grandma and Papa again, reunite with our cat, Thor, search for creatures in the pond, and reconnect with old friends.

What we were not prepared for, however, was the weather waiting for us! Call us soft, but after spending so much time in the warm temperatures of the Southwest, we had definitely adjusted to the heat. Returning to chilly spring weather was a bit of a shock to the system!

Settling Into Summer & Looking Ahead

As we settle back into familiar places and familiar faces for the summer, there’s something really grounding about this season of “coming home,” even if home still looks a little different for us now. After weeks of changing plans, weather surprises, gravel roads, and unexpected pivots, it feels good to slow down just a bit and settle into a season that hopefully brings a balance of hard work, relaxation, and time on the water.

For Derek and me, this summer will be filled with plenty of projects on both the boat and the RV. We have painting projects planned for both of our “homes,” along with some much-needed boat maintenance, including rigging work and possibly even new motors. Our plan is to spend most of June tackling those bigger projects, which means the boat likely won’t hit the water until the end of June. But once everything is ready, we’re hoping to spend most of August soaking up all the beauty of Lake Superior and exploring the incredible Apostle Islands.

Trygg is especially excited for summer to begin. He’s looking forward to returning to the amazing outdoor camp he attended last year, reconnecting with old friends, meeting new friends, and making even more memories. He’ll also continue swimming lessons this summer as he keeps building confidence and strengthening his swimming skills.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that life on the road and water rarely goes exactly as planned. Timelines shift, projects take longer than expected, and unexpected challenges always seem to appear along the way. But that’s also become one of the most meaningful parts of this lifestyle — learning to adapt, finding joy in the process instead of focusing only on the destination, and trusting the journey even when it doesn’t unfold the way we planned.

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy — but it is ours, and it’s filled with so much more than we ever could have imagined. Through it all, we’re reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds another chapter to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Leaving Goblin Valley Behind

After five days near Goblin Valley State Park, we were ready to move on to our next adventure. We found a charming mom-and-pop campground in Green River and settled in for a few days so we could explore both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

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Arches National Park

We got an early start and made the hour drive to Arches, but even in the morning, the park was already buzzing with visitors. Despite the crowds, we were still able to soak in the stunning scenery and hike out to several of the incredible arches. It’s hard to wrap your mind around how these natural formations came to be—and even more amazing that they’re still standing today.

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Canyonlands: The Unexpected Favorite

We hadn’t done much research on Canyonlands, but since it was so close, we decided to check it out—and we’re so glad we did. It may have ended up being our favorite national park. The views are absolutely unreal, stretching on for miles in a way that almost doesn’t feel real.

One of our hikes led us out to a viewpoint that was a bit challenging thanks to some intense wind (which Trygg was definitely not a fan of), but the views at the end made it more than worth it. There’s also a 100-mile 4×4 road that winds through the park, and Derek has officially added it—and the camping adventure that comes with it—to his bucket list.

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A Lesson Learned on the Road

From there, we headed to Dinosaur National Monument. On the drive, we learned a very important lesson—always check the weather and the elevation for your entire route. Our path took us through a mountain pass sitting at 8,200 feet, where we ran into some less-than-ideal winter weather.

The road was narrow and winding, and to make things even more intense, thick fog rolled in. Honestly, it may have been a blessing, because not being able to see too far down helped keep my nerves somewhat in check—I was already starting to panic a bit. Derek did an amazing job navigating the conditions and keeping me calm, and we made it safely to our campsite.

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Dinosaur National Monument

After getting settled and set up at Dinosaur National Monument Campground, we ventured over to the Visitor Center and the Quarry Exhibit Hall, which features more than 1,500 dinosaur bones embedded right into a cliff face. Seeing the famous “Wall of Bones” in person was absolutely incredible—one of those moments that truly stops you in your tracks.

During our four-day stay, we spent our time exploring a couple of the hikes throughout the park, each offering its own unique views and experiences. We wandered past fascinating petroglyphs, imagining the stories they’ve held for centuries, and took the Tour of the Tilted Rocks, where we not only saw more rock art but also visited the historic Josie Bassett homestead. It was the perfect mix of adventure, history, and quiet moments of awe—exactly the kind of experience that makes a place stick with you long after you’ve left.

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Saying Goodbye to Utah

Our time in Utah had to come to an end, and I won’t lie—I was really sad to leave this incredibly beautiful state. We’re already talking about coming back next year to explore even more, and I found myself looking forward to that return before we had even fully said goodbye.

But as hard as it was to leave, a new state was calling our name… Colorado.

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A Quiet Pause at Rifle Gap

From Dinosaur National Monument, we made our way to Rifle Gap State Park, and it ended up being such a peaceful stop. The campground was beautiful, surrounded by mountains with the reservoir nestled in—it was the kind of view you never get tired of.

Honestly, we didn’t do much that week, and it was exactly what we needed. After weeks of exploring, it felt like a deep exhale. We hiked a few of the trails around the campground each day, but other than that, we kept things simple—just a couple of grocery runs and laundry trips. It was a full week to reset, recharge, and relax. And we knew we still had another week in Colorado to explore… or at least, that was the plan.

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When Plans Change

We were supposed to leave Rifle Gap on Sunday, April 26, but Saturday morning we checked the weather and quickly changed course. After learning our lesson the last time, we didn’t want to take any chances.

Our route would take us through the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel at over 11,000 feet, and with a rain and snow mix in the forecast at lower elevations, we knew that meant definite snow up there—and that was not something we wanted to drive through.

The tricky part was that we couldn’t check into our next campground until the following afternoon. We tried to find a spot along the way, but between the higher elevations and the weather, nothing was working out. So, we made the call to turn it into a long travel day and keep moving. Just like that, Colorado ended up in our rearview mirror a little sooner than expected.

I would have loved more time to explore, but it helps knowing we’ll be back in September for our next Full Time Families gathering.

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The Beauty of the Unplanned

Where the road took us next was completely unplanned, but we’re learning that those unexpected turns often lead to some of our favorite memories. There’s something about letting go of the plan and just following where the road leads that keeps this journey exciting and full of surprises. Even when things don’t go the way we imagined, they always seem to unfold exactly how they’re meant to.

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Why We Keep Choosing This Life

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy—but it is ours, and it’s filled with so much more than we ever could have imagined. Through it all, we’re reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds another chapter to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Following the Detour

After wrapping up our time exploring some of Utah’s more well-known stops—and already feeling like we were falling a little in love with this state—we weren’t quite ready to move on just yet. There was still so much we hadn’t seen, and something told us to keep exploring beyond the usual must-see lists.

That’s how we ended up at Goblin Valley State Park.

This stop wasn’t even on the original plan. I stumbled across it while searching for things to do in Utah beyond the National Parks—and what we found ended up being an absolute gem… and Trygg’s new favorite place.

A Landscape Like Another Planet

It’s hard to even describe this place without sounding dramatic, but it truly feels otherworldly. Think “Mars-like” landscape, filled with thousands of mushroom-shaped sandstone formations—called hoodoos, or as they’re better known here, “goblins.”

It honestly might be nature’s coolest playground. Kids can climb, explore, and let their imaginations run wild… and let’s be real, adults can too.

Where We Called Home (For a Few Days)

We boondocked about 10 miles from the park on BLM land, which worked out really well for us. It was definitely busier than we expected, but it still gave us the space and flexibility we needed for our five-night stay.

The Wild Horse Window Adventure

On our first day, Derek found a hike called the Wild Horse Window trail. It was listed as a 1-mile round trip… but the route we took definitely felt more like a mile each way.

The trail itself wasn’t super difficult, but it was a little tricky to follow at times. Still, the payoff made it completely worth it. At the end, you reach a cave with an opening at the top, and it was such a fun spot to explore.

Trygg loved testing out his echo, and one of the cave walls had really well-preserved petroglyphs, which was incredible to see up close.

Endless Exploring

The real highlight of Goblin Valley State Park, for us, was just being out among the goblins. Trygg had the best time climbing all over them, and we spent hours just wandering and exploring.

We did convince him to branch out a bit and check out a nearby wash, which turned into a really fun little hike. The boys were on the lookout for fossils or hidden treasures the whole time—but no luck this round.

We loved Goblin Valley so much, we ended up going back two more times. If it’s not already on your Utah list, it absolutely should be.

A Day at Capitol Reef

While we were in the area, we took a day trip over to Capitol Reef National Park and spent an afternoon and evening exploring.

We did the scenic drive (which was beautiful, of course) and also hiked to Hickman Bridge. The trail is listed as 1.7 miles round trip… but I’m not going to lie, it felt longer. There’s quite a bit of up and down, with close to 500 feet of elevation gain.

That said—it was absolutely worth it. The arch and the views at the end were incredible. Trygg wasn’t exactly thrilled about the hike, but he pushed through and handled it like a champ.

But Utah Wasn’t Done With Us Yet…

Next up, towering arches, endless canyon views, a few unexpected challenges, and moments we won’t soon forget.

This stretch of the journey reminded us why we chose this life in the first place—to follow the detours, to embrace the unknown, and to keep saying yes even when we don’t know exactly what’s ahead.

And through it all, we are reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Leaving Arizona

Leaving Arizona was far more bittersweet than I anticipated. We fell in love with the warm weather and almost constant sunshine, but even more than that, we cherished the time we were able to spend with family.

We made so many sweet memories with my brother and sister-in-law—hiking, sharing meals, hosting visiting family, and simply enjoying being together. We also spent a lot of time with Derek’s parents, boondocking not far from their home so we could see them often. Those everyday moments quickly became some of our favorites. Trygg especially loved being able to visit them whenever he wanted—and his golf cart rides with Papa Steve to hunt for golf balls were definitely a highlight.

It’s never easy to leave a place you’ve truly come to love—especially when it’s filled with people you love just as much. But as hard as it is to say goodbye, there’s something about the pull of new places and new adventures that we just can’t ignore.

Utah was Calling

Utah had been calling my name for a while… even if Derek needed a little convincing. The hesitation was fair. Almost five years ago, we had a pretty rough experience in Salt Lake City when our beloved VW camper van, Pokey, lost its transmission. It was stressful, expensive, and not exactly the kind of memory that makes you want to rush back. I kept reminding him that Utah is so much more than that one moment—and this time, we were rolling in a much more reliable ride.

And honestly? Utah has completely won us over. It might even be one of our new favorite states. The scenery here doesn’t even feel real at times—every turn looks like something out of a different world, and we’ve caught ourselves more than once just stopping to take it all in.

Zion National Park & St. George

We made it to four of the five national parks during our stay in Utah (Bryce Canyon is officially on our “next time” list), and kicked things off in Toquerville, just about 35 minutes from Zion National Park. We spent 7 nights at a campground here so we could enjoy the sites as much as possible.

I know Zion is a favorite for a lot of people, and while I can absolutely appreciate how beautiful it is… it wasn’t my favorite stop. Part of that was timing—we hit it right in the middle of spring break, and the crowds were intense. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the shuttle system required to access most of the hikes. As someone who gets car sick, the idea of riding a packed bus into the park didn’t sound all that appealing, so we opted for the scenic drive instead. And I will say—the drive alone was incredible. Still, I’d love to go back during the off-season when we can explore more of the trails at our own pace. It’s definitely a place worth seeing, and I’d like to experience it a little differently next time.

We also made a stop at Pioneer Park in St. George, and this ended up being such a fun place to explore. It’s full of massive red rocks that you can climb, scramble, and wander around on—basically a giant natural playground.

After that, we headed over to the Dinosaur Discovery Site, which was honestly such a cool experience. The museum is built right on what used to be a lakeshore, and it showcases Early Jurassic tracks and fossils that were discovered back in 2000. There are thousands of preserved footprints, fossils dating back around 200 million years, and even a fossil prep lab that you can peek into through a window.

We originally thought this would be something Trygg would really love—and he definitely did—but I think Derek and I might have been even more into it. It’s pretty incredible to stand there and see history preserved in that way, knowing those tracks were made millions of years ago.

Finding Community on the Road

One of the unexpected highlights of our time in Toquerville was getting to reconnect with some friends we met at the Fulltime Families Gathering back in March. They happened to be camping just about 10 miles from us, and we were able to get together a few times while we were there.

There’s something really special about finding your people on the road. It was such a good reminder of how important community and connection are in this lifestyle. Seeing familiar faces, catching up, and watching Trygg run around playing with his new friends—it just filled my cup in the best way. Moments like that make this whole journey feel even more meaningful, and I’m already looking forward to more of it as we continue our travels this fall.

What’s Next

As our time in Toquerville started to wind down, we realized this leg of our journey was far from over. Ahead of us were places we had only just begun to discover—unexpected gems that weren’t even part of our original plan, but quickly became some of the highlights of our entire time in Utah.

In our next post, we’ll take you along as we explore Goblin Valley State Park—a place that truly feels like stepping onto another planet—and Capitol Reef National Park, where towering rock formations and scenic drives reminded us just how wild and beautiful this state really is. Between the two, we found adventure, quiet moments, and a whole lot of awe in places we never expected to fall in love with. And through it all, we were reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

There’s something really special about calling a small space home—especially when it holds so many big memories. Our RV may not be big in square footage (approximately 400), but it’s full in all the ways that matter most.

Before we dive into the tour, I want to share why we chose the Brinkley brand over all the other options out there. After hours of research and touring countless 5th wheels—opening every drawer, peeking into every cabinet, and sitting on all the furniture—we finally landed on the Brinkley 5th wheel toy hauler, G3950.

Brinkley has earned a reputation as a game-changer in the luxury RV world. They focus on superior construction, modern design, and innovative, user-driven features. Their finishes feel more like a high-end home than an RV, and every storage solution seems thoughtfully designed for full-time living.

Customer service was another big reason we went with Brinkley. Let’s be honest—any brand can have hiccups, and a lot of the components are used across the industry. I’ve already had to reach out to Brinkley a couple of times, and every single time, someone got back to me within 24 hours with helpful answers. That kind of reliability makes a huge difference, and it really gave us confidence in our choice.

One of the biggest things that we loved about the Brinkleys right away were the windows. There are so many of them, and the natural light that pours in completely transforms the space. We’ve learned just how important sunshine is for our mental well-being, and being able to open the shades each morning, take in the views, and let the light stream in has been incredible. It makes even a small space feel open, bright, and full of life.

After all the research, the tours, and the drawer-opening tests, it just felt right. Brinkley offered the perfect mix of design, quality, and support for our lifestyle—and honestly, we haven’t looked back… well, maybe just briefly when we had that water leak and water started streaming into our kitchen!

Our Bedroom: A Cozy Retreat/Derek’s Home Office

At the end of each day, this is where we land. It’s our quiet space, our place to recharge, and somehow, it always feels like a little escape—even though it’s just steps away from everything else.

There’s something comforting about having a space that’s ours, no matter where we’re parked. We’re also excited to slowly make it even more “us,” starting with adding some paint and a few personal touches to warm it up even more.

One of the things that makes this space work so well is that our bedroom doubles as Derek’s office. Brinkley had such a smart idea with the dresser—the top slides out to become a desk. Derek still wants to tweak a few things to make it more functional, but even now, it’s already way better than what we had in the Renegade. And honestly? Being able to close the bedroom door during meetings has been a total game-changer.

Another thing we’ve really come to appreciate is the amount of storage in our bedroom. There’s a huge closet, plenty of under-the-bed storage, and even prep for a washer and dryer—features that make everyday life on the road feel a little more comfortable and a lot more practical.

Our Bathroom: Small but Mighty

RV bathrooms aren’t exactly known for their size—but this one does everything we need it to. It’s actually a pretty decent size, with a nice shower that makes it feel a little less “RV” and a little more like home.

And the best part? A pullout cabinet/pantry setup that gives us so much extra storage—something that makes a huge difference in a small space.

Like everything else in this life, it’s taught us to appreciate the little things… like good water pressure and a place for everything.

Living Room: The Heart of It All

This space does a little bit of everything—movie nights, school time, quiet mornings, workout space and evenings spent just being together.

It’s where we gather and where so many of our everyday moments happen.

Just like the bedroom and bathroom, there’s also an abundance of storage here—so much, in fact, that we’re not even using all of it. There’s extra space above the TV and above the couch just waiting to be filled (or maybe not, which honestly feels like a win too).

We also love how the sunlight streams in through the many windows here, making the space feel open, bright, and inviting. It’s amazing how something as simple as natural light can make the whole room feel like home.

And yes… sometimes it’s perfectly picked up, and sometimes it looks like real life exploded all over it. Both versions are equally us.

Kitchen: Where Simple Meets Meaningful

Our kitchen is actually fairly large for a fifth wheel, and it’s one of our favorite spaces. It has everything we need—and then some. From the oven to all the storage (including two pull-out pantry cabinets), it makes day-to-day life feel a lot easier.  And the little extras? They honestly feel like luxuries. We have a pull-out spice rack, a pull-out cutting board, and even a pull-out garbage can (and if you’ve ever lived or traveled in an RV, you know how amazing that is). These are things we didn’t even have in our house, which still feels a little wild to say.

The kitchen island is where we naturally gather—whether it’s for meals, snacks, or game nights. Lately, Trygg has even started using it for homeschooling, which works perfectly because I can be working on things in the kitchen while still being right there to help if he needs it. It’s one of those spots that brings us together effortlessly, no matter what we’re doing.

The Dinesk: Our Flexible (and Slightly Messy) Space

One of the features Brinkley included is what they call the Dinesk—a space that can function as a dining table or a work desk. It can be super versatile, if you need it. Trygg occasionally uses it for homeschooling, but most of the time… well, it’s become a bit of a catch-all for all the things that should probably be put away… but aren’t.

That said, we love the flexibility it offers. We’ve used it as a puzzle table, which has been surprisingly fun.  We have plans to make the space more “our style” as we settle in.  I also love having the wall space here to hang my plants—I get to see them every day, which just makes the whole space feel a little more alive.

This is also where we hung the painting my father-in-law made for me, and it’s one of my favorite pieces in our home. It’s a sunset from our favorite boondocking spot, and I love that no matter where we are—no matter how far we travel—I still get to look up and see one of our favorite views. It feels like carrying a little piece of “home” with us wherever we go.

Trygg’s Room: His Own Little World

One of the best parts of this setup is that Trygg has a space to call his own. It’s actually the largest space in the house at 14 feet long, which gives him plenty of room to spread out, play, and let his imagination run wild. He absolutely loves having his own space.

I’m pretty sure he spends more time in his room in the Brinkley than he ever did in his room in our house.  And if I’m being honest… most of the time, it looks exactly like you’d expect a kid’s space to look—full of toys, creativity, and a little bit of chaos.  And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

You may remember I was really excited to share this space with Trygg for my morning workouts… but as it happens, he has completely taken over the space! By the time Derek and I return from our morning walk, he’s usually busy playing, but I need to get my workout in, so, I’m back to using the living space instead. And honestly? I’m totally okay with it, because I truly love that Trygg has his own space to spread out and play. I’m already working on a plan to create my own outdoor workout area when we hit the road next September!

Trygg’s Bathroom: Kid-Friendly &  Mostly Functional

Having a separate space just for him has been such a blessing.  Sometimes, having two toilets is simply essential.  We honestly didn’t realize how much we’d come to rely on it, and now that we’ve experienced it, we’re pretty sure we’ll never go back to having just one bathroom in an RV. It’s little conveniences like this that make full-time RV life feel a lot more comfortable—and a lot less stressful!

We’re not huge fans of the fold-down sink—it’s a bit clunky and not the most convenient—so we’re planning to swap it out for something more practical and kid-friendly.

Our Outdoor Patio: Expanding Our Space

Our outdoor space is full of potential, and we can’t wait to really make it part of our daily life. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy fresh air, watch the sunsets, and spend time together under the open sky. In many ways, it has the potential to be our biggest “room”—and we’re excited to see it come to life.

We haven’t used it much yet, but when we do, Trygg loves doing his homeschool out here, and I love sitting back and taking in the views—it’s the perfect little escape right outside our door. We’ve also discovered it’s the perfect spot for drying laundry out in the desert—simple, and practical!

The Garage: Outside Storage That Holds It All

One of the things we love about our Brinkley is the outside storage—what we call the garage. The entire section beneath our bedroom acts as a huge storage area, giving us space for just about everything we need on the road.

We haven’t quite nailed the perfect organization system yet, but we’re loving the two massive pull-out drawers on either side—they make accessing things so much easier. There’s plenty of room for all our gear, including our Blackstone grill, chairs, firepit and paddle boards.

Like the rest of our RV, the garage is another space we plan to fine-tune as we settle in—finding better ways to organize and make it fully functional while still keeping it easy to use. For now, it’s working great and gives us all the extra storage we could ever need.

The Real Side of RV Life

It’s easy to share the picture-perfect moments—but the truth is, this space is lived in. It gets messy, it gets busy, and it holds all the little in-between moments that make up our days. And honestly? That’s what makes it feel like home.

This life may look different than what we once imagined, but it’s ours. Every corner, every drawer, every little quirk of this space tells a part of our story. And in the end, it’s not about square footage or perfection—it’s about the memories we make, the time we spend together, and the freedom to live life on our own terms. That’s what makes this home on wheels feel truly ours.

Oh, and a quick update on that little water leak—our leak issue has been resolved! The dealership was able to track it down, and thankfully it was an easy fix. The black tank flush spigot was the culprit—apparently missing a gasket, which let rainwater sneak behind it and straight into our kitchen. We could have gone the warranty route, but it would have been at least a three-week process. So, we decided to fix the problem ourselves—because sometimes that’s just how this life goes. It’s a little bit of figuring things out as you go, a little bit of rolling with the unexpected, and a whole lot of learning along the way.

And honestly? That’s part of what makes this life so exciting!

Thank you for being here and taking a peek into our home on wheels. It means more than you know. We’re so glad you’re along for the ride—and we’ll see you down the road!

I am constantly amazed at how quickly time passes. Part of me imagined life on the road would feel slower—and in some ways it does—but somehow the days still slip by just as fast. March was no exception.

Family Time in the Desert

We kicked off the month in the best way, with my parents coming to visit. It ended up being perfect timing with Derek heading to Denver for a work conference. We’re not used to having him gone for a full week, so having my parents here during that time felt like a gift.

My mom came out to the desert to stay with Trygg and me for a night. I loved getting to share our little corner of the world with her—showing her our favorite boondocking spot and the quiet, peaceful beauty that comes with it. It’s something that’s become so normal for us, but getting to see it through her eyes made it feel special all over again.

The next night, I stayed out there by myself… and if I’m being honest, I did not love it. I’ve learned that I really love this life, but I love it most when Derek and Trygg are right there with me.

The following morning, my dad and brother came out to help me move our Brinkley closer to everyone, which I was very thankful for. Later that day, my aunt and uncle, Sandy and Richard, arrived, and just like that, our quiet desert days turned into full, family-filled ones.

Not every moment was go-go-go, though. The next day, while everyone else headed out for a side-by-side ride, Trygg and I stayed back. He hasn’t been loving side by siding lately, so we took the slower route—laundry, errands, and some much-needed one-on-one time. Honestly, those quieter moments end up being some of my favorites.

Derek finally made it back early Saturday morning after a long, delayed travel day thanks to a snowstorm in Denver. We were all more than ready to have him home. The rest of the weekend felt like a deep exhale—filled with hiking, swimming, relaxing, and just being together.

A few days later, and far too quickly, it was time for my parents to head back to Minnesota. With snowstorms on the way, they decided to fly home and leave their rig behind for now—one more reminder of how unpredictable this lifestyle (and the weather) can be.

When Things Don’t Go As Planned

As we started settling back into our desert rhythm, we had our first real reminder that this lifestyle isn’t always sunsets and quiet mornings.

Our Brinkley experienced its very first rainstorm… and it did not go well.

We came home to find a large puddle of water on the kitchen floor, with water actually streaming out from under the cabinets. I just stood there for a second and said, “Why is the floor all wet?”

Without missing a beat, Derek responded, “I don’t know, Margo!” — if you know, you know.

Once the initial shock wore off, we jumped into problem-solving mode. We checked all the obvious things, plumbing, connections, drains, but came up with nothing. Meanwhile, the water wasn’t slowing down.

We ended up having to cut into the bottom of the kitchen cabinet base just to get things dried out as quickly as possible—not exactly how we imagined spending our evening.

Unfortunately, the rain kept coming through the night and into the next day… and so did the water.

By morning, it was clear this wasn’t something we were going to figure out on our own, so I called a local dealership and scheduled an appointment to get it looked at.

More on that to come…

New Friends & New Experiences

With no rain in the forecast, we felt comfortable sticking with our plan to head to Winterhaven, California for our first Full-Time Families event—and I am so glad we did.

Going into it, we really didn’t know what to expect. But it ended up being such a special week.

It was a smaller gathering—just 14 families—and we were one of only two new families. That ended up being perfect for us. It never felt overwhelming, and it gave Trygg the chance to really connect and play with so many of the kids.

One of the biggest highlights for me was simply watching Trygg in his element. He has such a natural way of connecting with people—it doesn’t matter who they are, he just finds a way to be their friend. One of the moms shared with me how much they all loved having him around, how easily he connected with every single kid. As a mom, hearing that filled my heart in a way that’s hard to put into words. I felt so proud of the kind, genuine person he is – it was one of those moments that just quietly fills your heart.

There was one night in particular that stuck with me. All the kids were out riding bikes and rollerblading around the campground, and it instantly took me back to what it felt like growing up in a neighborhood—just that freedom to roam and be with friends until the sun went down. It’s something Trygg wouldn’t have experienced back in Minnesota, and it made me so grateful for this lifestyle in a whole new way.

Another highlight was getting to connect with other families who truly understand this life—the challenges and the beauty of it. From navigating homeschooling on the road and finding meaningful opportunities for the kids to socialize, to dealing with the inevitable RV repairs that always seem to pop up at the least convenient times… it’s a life that stretches you in ways you never quite expect.

But it’s also a life filled with so much good. More time together as a family, unhurried and intentional. The chance to explore new places, wake up to different views, and follow wherever the road leads next. There’s a freedom in this lifestyle that’s hard to put into words—and being surrounded by others who get it made it all the more special.

We spent the week sharing meals, sitting around fires, swimming, and having the kind of conversations that just feel easy and understood.

And yes… it was hot. Really hot. Like 112-degree desert heat kind of hot. But even that couldn’t take away from what an incredible experience it was.

We’re already planning to attend another Full-Time Families event in September, and I love that we’ll get to see some familiar faces while also meeting new ones along the way.

Looking Ahead

It feels so strange to say that we’ve been in Arizona for a little over four months now. We’ve taken a few side trips here and there, but still… I can’t believe how quickly that time has gone by.

We have truly loved our time here. The sunshine almost every day, the mountain views, and the countless hours spent outside—it has been the most incredible way to spend our winter months.

But as much as we’ve loved it, we’re starting to feel the pull toward what’s next.

It’s time to begin planning our trip north so we can spend the summer in Duluth—soaking up time with my parents, getting back out on the water, and reconnecting with familiar faces we’ve missed so much.

I find myself just as excited for the journey getting there. We’re planning to explore a couple of new states along the way, and I can’t wait to make even more memories with my little family.

And for those who have been asking—we haven’t forgotten! I’ll be sharing another blog post soon with a full look inside our new Brinkley, along with plenty of pictures. It’s been so fun making it feel like home, and I can’t wait to show you.

This life we’ve chosen isn’t always easy—but it is ours, and it’s filled with so much more than we ever could have imagined. And through it all, we’re reminded that every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.