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.

Back to the Desert

The end of January brought us back to one of our favorite places — out in the desert, tucked into our go-to boondocking spot. The mountain views never get old, and neither do the sunsets. There’s something about the quiet out there that just resets us.

And of course… the grasshoppers. Lots and lots of grasshoppers. Trygg was in heaven, catching as many as he could.

We spent a few peaceful days working, homeschooling, and soaking in desert life before things started shifting in a big way.

Big Changes in Motion

We sold our Jeep and bought a 2015 Ford F-450 — which feels like a very big upgrade. Huge shoutout to my brother for tracking it down and even test driving it for us. We are so grateful for family who jump in and help make this lifestyle possible.

With exciting changes on the horizon, we headed back to John & Carrie’s driveway during the last week of January. That’s when reality hit.

We found every tote and box we could and began the overwhelming task of unloading our entire Renegade into my brother’s trailer. I still have no idea how we fit SO much stuff into our RV. It felt like one of those clown cars where things just keep coming out and coming out and coming out.

All of this was because two days later, we were supposed to head to Quartzsite to trade in our Renegade and pick up our new home on wheels — our 2026 Brinkley G3950 5th wheel.

Or so we thought.

The Delay We Didn’t See Coming

Less than 24 hours before we were set to arrive, the dealership called to tell us it wasn’t ready. It would be at least another week.

I had just completely emptied our entire rig.

But if this lifestyle has taught us anything, it’s flexibility. So we pulled out the essentials, loaded them back into the Renegade, and headed right back out to the desert for another week.

What followed was frustrating.

The pickup date kept changing. Communication was inconsistent.  We were told we’d have to drive to Laughlin, Nevada instead of Quartzsite, Arizona — a four-hour drive from Apache Junction. That was especially frustrating since John and Carrie were planning to help us move the Brinkley back to Apache Junction with our truck.

After more phone calls than we cared to count — and being convinced that all RV dealerships are a pain to work with — we were finally given a pickup date.

So we unloaded the Renegade. Again. Prepped everything. Sent Trygg with Derek’s parents.  And made the four-hour drive.

When we arrived, it quickly became clear that very little had actually been done during the week we had waited. Most likely, they oversold during their RV show, overpromised pickup dates, and didn’t have enough staff to keep up.

Honestly, we would have been completely fine waiting — if they had just been upfront from the beginning.

It was a lesson in patience… and managing expectations.

Grateful for Our People

In the end, the waiting and frustration were completely worth it.

We are absolutely loving life in the Brinkley (interior photos coming soon!). But more than anything, this whole process reminded us just how grateful we are for John and Carrie.

Not only did they let us park in their driveway — multiple times — but they gave us space to store our belongings during the transition, listened patiently while we vented after dealership phone calls, and helped us transport our new home on wheels back to Apache Junction.

That kind of support doesn’t go unnoticed.

This season was a great reminder that while we may live on the road, we are never doing this alone. Having a support system — people who show up, make space, and offer listening ears — is everything.

Life in the Brinkley

We’ve officially been moved into our new home for two weeks now and honestly… it has been life-changing.

The Brinkley is a beast at 45.5 feet long, so yes — we’ll definitely have to travel and camp a little differently. We won’t be squeezing into every little campground the way we could with the Renegade. But the additional living space? Completely worth it.

Derek’s Favorites

Derek’s favorite things so far? Our larger bedroom, the big kitchen (the oven is a major win), the second bathroom — because sometimes two bathrooms is simply essential — and the fact that the Ford is much more comfortable on long driving days than the Freightliner/Renegade ever was.

What does he miss about the Renegade? The portability. The Renegade was faster to pack up and easier to maneuver on moving days.

My Favorites

The kitchen is an absolute game changer. I am in heaven. The extra counter space, the storage, the ability to prep meals without bumping into someone every two seconds — it feels luxurious.

I love our bigger bedroom and bathroom.  Having a couch we can all sit on together is simply wonderful.  Having separate spaces for Derek’s work and Trygg’s homeschooling has been incredible; it has shifted the tone of our days in the best way.

And the back deck. And the extra room for workouts.

Honestly? Pretty much everything. This thing is amazing.

What do I miss about the Renegade? The portability. We won’t be able to fit this 45.5-foot rig into every campground.  The Renegade was easier and quicker to clean…but I’m willing to overlook that because right now, in this season, the space feels like exactly what we needed.

Trygg’s Favorites 

Trygg is absolutely thriving in this new setup.

His favorite things so far: the fireplace, the big TV, his own bathroom, his own bedroom, the back deck, the oven, and the “real” light switches (this one cracked me up — apparently they’re very important to him).

He’s also loving having more room for homeschool and not being shuffled around when Derek has meetings. That alone has changed the rhythm of our days.

What does he miss about the Renegade? Nothing. Well, maybe his bunk, maybe.

The other day, after looking around our new home on wheels, he casually said, “Yeah… I can definitely get into this lifestyle now.”

I laughed — but if I’m being honest, it was music to my ears.

Derek and I have loved this lifestyle from the start, but it hasn’t always been easy for Trygg. He misses his Grandma Janet and Papa John. He misses his cat, Thor (thank you, Mom and Dad, for taking him in and loving him so well — we love the  pictures you send us!). He misses his friends… and even winter.

People often say what an amazing adventure this is for him — and it truly is. But the truth is, we uprooted his whole world. We changed his home, his routines, his community — everything familiar — and that’s a lot for an eight-year-old to process.

Hearing him say he can get into this lifestyle now made my mama heart so happy and eased a little bit of the quiet worry I’ve been carrying.

Looking Ahead

In just a couple of weeks, my mom and dad will be arriving for a visit. We haven’t seen them since Christmas — the longest we’ve ever gone without being together. They’re bringing their RV down, and we cannot wait to do some boondocking with them, soak up some much needed time together, and show them our new home.

My aunt and uncle from California will be joining us for part of the time, too, which makes it even more special. One of the unexpected gifts of this lifestyle has been getting to see them more often — this will be our third visit since we hit the road. Time together just feels sweeter these days and we’re soaking up every second.

In March, we’ll be heading to Winterhaven, CA for our very first Fulltime Families Gathering. Back in January, we joined Fulltime Families — a community created specifically for families who have chosen to live and travel full-time in RVs. It’s a support network for nomadic families like ours, and one of the things they offer is in-person gatherings.

We’re really hoping this will be a meaningful step for us — a chance to meet other families living this same lifestyle, most importantly, to help Trygg connect with new friends and begin building a community that makes this lifestyle even more joyful for him.

A New Chapter

This transition wasn’t seamless. It tested our patience, required flexibility, and stretched us in ways we didn’t expect. But in the middle of the unloading, the re-loading, the long drives, and the frustrating phone calls, we were reminded why we chose this lifestyle in the first place -more time together, the growth, the adventure, the flexibility, and the chance to live differently on purpose.

Growth rarely happens when everything goes according to plan. More often, it shows up in the waiting. In the pivots. In the moments when you choose gratitude even when it would be easier to complain.

As we settle into this new chapter — grateful for the growth, the people who carried us through it, and the space that already feels like home — we’re reminded once again why we keep saying yes to this adventure.  We know this life isn’t always easy, but we also know this: every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

Glamis, California

On Sunday, January 11th, we packed up and headed back toward California for a short excursion to the sand dunes of Glamis with Jillian’s brother, John. I had never seen actual sand dunes before and figured it was worth the short trip.

We made a quick overnight stop in Quartzsite, where I took the opportunity to meet up with some ham radio operators who were setting up for an event later that week. I randomly met N4SVD, who has been coming to Quartzfest for 33 years!

On Monday evening, we zipped the rest of the way to Glamis. John hauled down his two Polaris RZRs, outfitted with paddle tires, and brought a few friends along for the adventure.

First Impressions of the Dunes

It was amazing to see the dunes — it felt like something straight out of a movie. I didn’t get a chance to go out during the daytime due to work that week, but I made it up to the top of the dunes for several sunsets. Absolutely epic and a total adrenaline rush flying around those massive bowls.

Trygg enjoyed endless digging in the sand, bocce ball, and flying a little wooden airplane with some new friends. Oh — and ice cream treats. There’s a beat-up ice cream truck that drives around playing the same 20-second jingle on loop. Talk about a flashback to the 80’s.

Jillian enjoyed the sunsets too… of course.

The biggest upside of Glamis was also the biggest downside:

Sand.

Everywhere.

In our teeth.
In our clothes.
In our bedding.

Quartzsite – Round 3

On Thursday, I took a half day off and we headed back to Quartzsite. That evening, Jillian tackled the heroic task of cleaning as much sand out of everything as humanly possible.

We stayed for another nine days for Quartzfest and the big RV show.

At Quartzfest, I made a few new acquaintances, watched three high-altitude balloon launches, and did some stargazing with the astronomy folks (AK9K and KG7HUP). We saw: 4 moons and the blue line on Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, a peak at the Andromina galaxy, and a few other objects as well.

There were hundreds of hams present. In just a couple of days, that section of the Roadrunner BLM area turned into a massive forest of portable antennas.

Trygg participated in a metal detecting class — which didn’t start off well due to some issues with his detector — but it turned around when some of the hams gave him tips on where to dig. He also joined in on a rock show-and-tell. Props to Gordo (WB6NOA) for organizing both of those activities.

Jillian enjoyed the people watching, checking out RVs, and lots of walks. And yes… the sunsets were epic here too. Seems to be a common theme in this part of the country.

The Reality of Quartzsite in January

Traffic in town was insane — nothing like the quiet Quartzsite we experienced back in November. I’ll leave the laundromat story for Jillian to tell.

During one of our tank dumps, I spilled a couple of cups of grey water and was charged a cleanup fee. I guess I could understand if it were gallons of sewage, but this wasn’t anything like that. Besides, this is RV life. Sooner or later, a little gets leaked. You rinse it away and move on.

Needless to say, there is one station in town we won’t be visiting again.

The RV Pit Stop is the place to go. A little rough around the edges — but no garden hose gestapo.

The Quartzsite flea market (only during the busy months) was interesting to walk through. Prices were pretty high for things you could find just about anywhere online, though there were some creative, artsy pieces mixed in.

The real attraction for Trygg were the rocks.

Some were overpriced, but he scored a huge red crystal and a polished round stone that caught his eye.

The RV Show…

The RV show at Q was as wild as everything else here. $10 for a pretzel? Really?! At least some of the RV prices were good. I have no idea how many people attended, but I heard they sold over 300 RVs. One of them… to us.

Check back soon to hear about our upgrade!

Peace,
Derek

“Trygg, you know we have a lot in common with the Boxcar Children… we both live in a box on wheels!”

It’s wild to think we’ve officially been living this life on the road for three months now. Some days it feels like we just left Duluth, and other days it feels like this has been our normal forever. December gave us plenty of miles, meaningful family time, and space to reflect on just how much has changed.

On Monday, December 8th, we packed up our quiet desert boondocking spot and headed back to my brother and sister-in-law’s driveway. Tuesday was spent prepping the RV to sit unoccupied for nine days—one of those practical tasks that’s not glamorous but very much part of this lifestyle.

Early Wednesday morning, December 10th, we flew from Mesa, Arizona to St. Cloud, Minnesota. The flight itself was uneventful, but the drive north to Duluth quickly reminded us where we were. Snowy roads, questionable rental car tires, and winter conditions made for a tense start. As we crested the big hill into Duluth and Lake Superior came into view, I wondered if I’d feel relief or homesickness. Honestly, I didn’t feel much of either.

It was wonderful to see family and friends again, but the bitter cold and lack of sunshine were a quick reminder of why winter in northern Minnesota has never been my favorite.

Our nine days in Duluth were full in the best way. Trygg visited his old school on Friday and spent time playing in the snow with friends like no time had passed. Saturday was Derek’s uncle’s celebration of life, and Sunday morning we returned to our church, greeted by so many familiar faces.

That afternoon, Trygg had two friends over to bake Christmas treats and play—something that felt wonderfully normal in the middle of a very not-normal season of life. Homeschool continued throughout the week, and Derek went into the office each day, which felt strange for all of us. We packed in as much time with friends and family as we could, knowing how quickly the days would slip by.

Back in Arizona, we jumped straight into a week full of family time at my brother and sister-in-law’s home – something that felt especially meaningful this time of year. We were able to spend Christmas with family we don’t usually get to see because of distance, a gift made possible by the flexibility and mobility of our current lifestyle. My aunt and uncle from South Dakota arrived Sunday evening, followed by my aunt and uncle from San Diego on Tuesday. The days were filled with hikes, side-by-side rides, incredible food, and nightly games and conversations.

This lifestyle continues to remind us how grateful we are for the freedom to be where we want—and where we’re needed. The week went by far too quickly. Sunday morning we said our goodbyes, restocked supplies, packed up, and headed back to the desert for a quiet week of boondocking.

As much as we loved our time with family, we were all looking forward to settling back into our routine—school, work, and a few peaceful days in the desert.

Three Months on the Road: The Joys & The Growing Pains

As we reached the three-month mark, we took time to ask each other two questions:
What’s been your favorite part of life on the road so far?
And what’s been the most challenging?

Here’s where we landed.

Derek
Derek loves the simple things this lifestyle offers—being outside as much as possible, hiking and biking, soaking up sunshine, and enjoying warm weather he didn’t get nearly enough of in Duluth. The freedom to move and explore has been a huge win. The biggest challenges for him have been more practical: not having a great workstation makes workdays a little challenging and constantly needing to locate dump stations and potable water near our boondocking spots adds another layer of planning. We’re also learning that our current solar setup isn’t quite enough yet—something we’ll be improving as we go.

Trygg
Trygg hasn’t shared a lot when we’ve talked about life on the road, but when he does, his answers are thoughtful and honest. One of his favorite parts of this lifestyle has been homeschooling. While it’s been challenging for me at times, Trygg loves the flexibility—being able to take breaks when he needs them and finish his schoolwork in just a couple of hours.

He also loves visiting family and adding new, cool rocks to his ever-growing collection. No matter where we are, he’s always on the lookout for the next perfect rock to bring along with us.

The hardest parts for Trygg have been hiking (it’s definitely not his favorite activity) and missing his friends back home. Even with all the new places we’re exploring, those connections still matter deeply to him, and we’re learning how to help him stay connected while embracing this season together and finding ways to make new connections along the way.

Jillian
I’ve loved the slower pace of life, the family time, the warmth and sunshine, being outside daily, and exploring new places together. Finding beautiful boondocking spots never gets old—it’s one of my favorite parts of this journey. Homeschooling, on the other hand, has easily been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Some days are smooth, others feel overwhelming. Still, I feel hopeful. We’re learning together, finding our rhythm, and I truly believe it will get easier with time.

Another challenge I didn’t fully anticipate is how much I’d miss having a dedicated space to start my day—one that includes a workout and a quiet moment for meditation. In our small living space, my morning workouts often involve interruptions, being stepped over, or having someone walk right through the middle of my workout! As for meditation…let’s just say that routine has been completely abandoned for now. 😂 I’m hopeful this will improve if we eventually upgrade our rig, but in the meantime, I’m making it work, lowering my expectations, and laughing my way through the chaos.

As we ushered in the new year, we found ourselves pausing to take in all that 2025 gave us—and the blessings that have come with choosing this life. From selling our home and living on our boat, to finding our RV, hitting the road, exploring nine states, adjusting to life in a small space, navigating homeschooling, and spending more time with family than we ever imagined possible, this season has stretched us, shaped us, and is guiding us forward with a deeper sense of gratitude for what’s ahead.  We know this life isn’t always easy, but we also know this: every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take. 

From California Family Time to Arizona Family Time

After a couple of weeks exploring Northern and Eastern California, it was time to slow down, settle in, and soak up some much-needed family time in Bonita. Finding a campground near San Diego that wasn’t wildly expensive, cramped, or inconvenient ended up being harder than expected—but Derek stumbled upon Sweetwater Summit Regional Park, and what a gem it turned out to be. It was the most affordable full-hookup campground we’ve stayed at so far, the sites were wonderfully spaced out, everything was clean and well cared for, and the staff could not have been friendlier.

There was one major downside, though… the ants.
On our second morning, I woke up to hundreds of tiny ants marching across the RV. To say I panicked would be an understatement. After a frantic Home Depot run and several rounds of ant-battling supplies, we thought we had won—until they came back with a vengeance. It was not our favorite experience, and for the record, we are still finding the occasional ant two weeks later. Thankfully, San Diego gave us plenty of good memories to balance it all out… mostly!

San Diego Family Time

On Sunday, November 16th, we spent the day with my aunt and uncle who live in San Diego. Even though the weather was hit-or-miss with scattered rain, we made the best of it—beach stops, a super fun rock garden where Trygg got to paint a rock to add to their display, pizza and ice cream, swimming, and warming up in the hot tub. We ended the day with a delicious dinner at their home, full bellies and happy hearts.

The next day my brother arrived for a few days of camping and family time. With the sun finally peeking out, we soaked it up—walks around the campground, time at the playground, and lots of togetherness. Tuesday afternoon we wandered through a few RV dealerships and toured several 5th wheels… stay tuned to see what we’re up to!

On Wednesday, our two very special guests—my mom and dad—flew in from Minnesota. The next few days were all about family: hiking, watching the seals and sea lions in La Jolla, swimming at the pool, and enjoying good food together. The time went by far too quickly, as it always does, but we were grateful for every moment. My parents flew home on Sunday, November 23rd, and we packed up and pointed the RV toward Arizona.

Due to days of heavy rain, the main road we were supposed to take was completely washed out, forcing us onto the road less traveled—literally. We ended up winding our way down a series of narrow farm roads that had turned into deep, slippery mud. The farm workers were not thrilled to see a 50-plus-foot RV and tow vehicle trying to make its way through and were waving for us to turn around. But with the ditches full of mud and nowhere safe to maneuver, turning around simply wasn’t an option.

It was one of those classic reminders that travel days rarely go exactly as planned—you just breathe, stay flexible, and hope for the best. Thankfully, we crawled our way through the mud-slicked maze without incident. The only casualty was our clean RV and Jeep, both of which were absolutely caked in mud by the time we reached solid ground.

Into the Desert: Quartzsite, Arizona

We arrived in Quartzsite that afternoon. If you’re not familiar with Quartzsite, it’s a tiny desert town that transforms each winter as hundreds—if not thousands—of snowbirds arrive. With endless BLM land available, people spread out in every direction, from basic 14-day boondocking spots to long-term stays of up to six months. It was fascinating to see the creative setups people had built for their RV life out in the desert.

We spent four days enjoying the sunshine (finally!) and warm weather. Trygg quickly discovered the town park with a splash pad, and it became our daily after-school stop. Quartzsite isn’t a place I could picture staying long-term, but it was the perfect spot for a few slow, peaceful days.

Thanksgiving in Apache Junction

From Quartzsite, we made our way to Apache Junction on Thursday, November 27th, arriving at my brother and sister-in-law’s later that morning. They have a great setup for us with space to park, a 50-amp hookup, and water when needed—RV luxury! For Thanksgiving dinner, we stayed true to tradition… our tradition, that is. If you know my brother or me, you know we’re not big holiday-food people, so we feasted on steak, potatoes, green beans and crumbl “pies” —and it was absolutely delicious.

The next few days were filled with sunshine, pool time, long walks, and more RV browsing. We toured a few more 5th wheels, and let’s just say… our wheels are turning. Some changes to our living situation and travel setup might be on the horizon!

On Sunday, November 30th, we made the quick 24-mile hop over to Queen Valley, where Derek’s parents live. The drive was short, but the scenery was beautiful as always. We spent the afternoon scouting a few new boondocking spots for the upcoming week and found some fantastic options tucked into the quiet desert landscape. We’re excited to settle in and enjoy the peaceful stretch ahead.

Looking Ahead

After a few days of boondocking, we’re gearing up for a very different kind of travel day—one that involves airports instead of wheels. We’ll be flying back to Minnesota for nine days. We’d originally planned a mid-December trip so Derek could attend his holiday work party, but life shifted our plans. Another one of Derek’s uncles passed away unexpectedly, and we want to be home to honor his life and be with family.

We’re packing the trip full: doctor appointments, family visits, play dates, and as much connection as we can squeeze in. While it will be wonderful to see familiar faces, I’m not exactly eager for freezing temps and snow. Trygg, on the other hand, is thrilled for a snowy adventure and can’t wait to soak up a bit of Minnesota winter.

As we wrap up this stretch of desert days and prepare for a return to the chilly Midwest, we’re reminded once again how fluid this season of life is—how plans shift, miles change, and our hearts move between places and the people we love. This journey continues to shape us with every stop, offering its own blend of beauty, challenge, and gratitude.

We know this life isn’t always easy, but we also know this: every challenge brings growth, every adventure adds to our story, and in the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.

We’re grateful for the freedom to be where we’re needed, for the memories we’re gathering mile by mile, and for the simple joy of doing life together—one chapter at a time.