Our first stop in the new year. We have a prime site close to the entrance. It never gets old watching the show. We managed to be #5 in line this time. We met up with friends and tried to stay warm. Winter sucks. 😂 We went to the RV show in Tampa once again resisting buying a new RV. I did order a new electronic lock and new filters for the water filtration system.

It’s cold in Florida. We stopped here for two nights to see Charlene’s Neurologist. We tried some Greek food. Why does everything have to be Americanized? Did I mention it’s cold in Florida?

We went from winter to summer in three weeks. We used the time to finalize our trip planning for 2025 and did more routine maintenance on the RV and the truck. Doctor visits have been taken care of and we are ready to go.

I finished up more projects. I ran cables for the solar panels through the bathroom closet. So now they are not dangling on the side of the RV anymore. Starlink switched us to the roaming plan. So I got the new Gen 3 dish, built a box on the roof for it, and ran that cable through the same hole in the roof. This way, we have Starlink in motion. The fridge is stocked, and the laundry is done. We are ready for this year’s voyage. Enjoy it with us. We will try to upload videos weekly.

#230 – 2/27 Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing

Char wasn’t doing well today, so I went and toured the museum myself. These guys were nuts. Char wasn’t bad enough to miss the Sonny’s on the way into the museum. So, guess what’s for dinner?

#231 – 2/28 Tallahassee Automobile Museum

Char is doing a little better. Slept most of the day. I explored the museum on my own. I learned that Ford made a chainsaw at some point in time. And just like the last stop, you are locked in for the night. The gate closes at 17:00 and opens at 08:00. Oh no! 10:00 on the weekends.

#232 – 3/1 Wilderness RV Park, Robertsdale, AL

We couldn’t make it to our boondocking spot. We would have bottomed out on some railroad tracks, so plan C it was. There is an interesting rundown RV park here where little dogs run wild. It’s in the woods and only for one night. Taking a long shower and dumping the tanks.

#233 – 3/2 Whiskey Bay Highway Camping Area

They were not joking about the washboard road leading here. Roadtrippers was a little wrong about the path here, too, and took us to a bridge that must have been closed to traffic for quite some time. So we just stopped at the bridge and spent the night there. Originally, we would stay at the Mississippi Welcome Center, but that place is closed. So, are we now on plan C? It was a nice, quiet night. Dark and quiet.

Thanks to a few last-minute changes in our plans, we arrived at Rutherford Beach a day early—and I’m glad we did. After driving about half a mile down the beach, where it narrows, we found the perfect spot. The area behind us got a little crowded, but with nothing in front of us except the Gulf, we had an incredible, unobstructed view of the sunrise every morning.

The winds were strong at times, but the RV handled them like a champ. The dogs were a little confused at first—no grass in sight, just sand stretching for miles—but they adjusted quickly. Jenny, in particular, loved it. I took her on a three-mile off-leash walk, and she had the time of her life exploring.

We ended up staying six nights, soaking in the peaceful, off-grid vibe of the beach. Char has already decided we need to come back. She even took the wheel and drove the RV off the sand, adding another adventure to the list!

Rutherford Beach may not have the amenities of a big RV park, but its raw beauty and free beachside camping make it a special stop. Definitely one for the books!

We stopped at the alligator capital of Texas, Anahuac, and stayed at Fort Anahuac Park—the very site of the original Fort Anahuac. Though we didn’t spot any gators, the weather was great, and the dogs were thrilled to see grass again. We also took the opportunity to top off our water, and Charlene was especially happy to enjoy a well-earned shower.

The park holds a fascinating piece of Texas history. Built in the 1830s by the Mexican government, Fort Anahuac was meant to enforce customs duties but became a flashpoint for the unrest that helped spark the Texas Revolution. Tensions between Texan settlers and the Mexican military escalated here, leading to the 1832 Anahuac Disturbances—a key step toward Texas’s fight for independence.

Today, the fort is long gone, but the peaceful park overlooking Trinity Bay made for a relaxing stop on our voyage.

Our stay at Thousand Trails Colorado River was a great mix of relaxation and a great BBQ. I took full advantage of the scenic trails, taking Jenny for some hikes. One of the highlights was accessing the Colorado River directly from the campground. Charlene and I stood by the water, enjoying the serene view and having a moment remembering Mitchell.

Saturday brought a delicious detour to Woods BBQ in Columbus, Texas. I’d heard great things about their smoked meats and legendary mac and cheese, so I had to stop by. I wasn’t disappointed—the barbecue was packed with smoky flavor. I didn’t get any of the mac and cheese; Charlene claimed those.

During our stay, we also sold our Gen 2 Starlink dish; we upgraded to a Gen 3 dish that is mounted on the roof now and gives us in-motion internet.

We made new friends, connected with fellow travelers, and even met other YouTubers who share our passion for documenting life on the road. Despite some heavy winds that rolled through, our time at Thousand Trails was filled with great moments.

Charlene and I even got competitive on the campground’s miniature golf course, playing all 18 holes and having a blast.

After driving through some pretty hefty winds, we stopped at Lagarto Regenerative Ranch, a place dedicated to producing grass-fed, grass-finished cattle with the ultimate goal of restoring soil health. This visit was an eye-opener into the world of regenerative ranching, an approach that not only produces healthier livestock but also revitalizes the land itself. We were greeted by Gail, who made us feel right at home. Our overnight spot was next to a utility shack with full hookups, which made for a comfortable stay. Gus and Gail have gone the extra mile for their guests, even building a shed with a bathroom and a dog wash station—they truly thought of everything!
At 5:30 PM, Gus led us and another traveling couple on a tour of the farm, where he shared the philosophy and challenges of regenerative ranching. Unlike conventional farming, regenerative methods aim to work with nature rather than against it, focusing on improving soil health, biodiversity, and water retention. One of the unexpected benefits of their approach has been the return of dung beetles. These tiny insects play a crucial role in breaking down manure, aerating the soil, and improving nutrient cycling.
Charlene especially loved seeing the cows and donkeys up close.

Three Weeks at Sun-N-Fun – A Flood, A Tattoo, and A Whole Lot of Bean Soup

We just wrapped up three weeks at Encore Sun-N-Fun RV Resort in San Benito, Texas—and let me tell you, it was anything but dull. Between fixing a tire, honoring a memory, navigating floodwaters, and celebrating a birthday, we made the most of every twist and turn that came our way.

Fixing Flats and Finding Humor
The adventure kicked off when I noticed our outer driver-side rear tire had sprung a leak. After pulling it off, I found the culprit: a sneaky little screw. Southern Tire Mart had us back on the road in no time, and Charlene stepped up—literally. She used Mitchell’s impact wrench to tighten the lug nuts down. Looks like I’ve got a new mechanic in the family!

A Tattoo with Heart
On March 26th, Charlene got a very special tattoo—a chipmunk in honor of her son Mitchell. He used to store food in his cheeks while eating, and she’d always tease him about looking like a chipmunk. It’s a beautiful tribute, and now she carries that sweet memory with her everywhere.

When It Rains… It Floods
Later that night, the skies opened up. And kept opening. What started as a storm quickly turned the campground into a lake. The rain poured down through the night and into the next day, eventually dumping a whopping 21.6 inches on us. Thankfully, we had no damage, but I did have to load up the dogs and drive them to dry land just so they could do their business. Some neighbors weren’t as lucky—several homes took on up to three inches of water.

Birthday BBQ and a Beach Drive
Charlene’s birthday was on March 31st. Her favorite BBQ joint—Longhorn Cattle Company—was closed that day, but we planned around it. We went for lunch the day before and dinner the day after. Their famous bean soup is no joke; they serve it as soon as you sit down, and we made sure to bring home extra smoked turkey and soup for later.

On her actual birthday, we took a scenic drive out to Boca Chica, rolled onto the beach, and spent some time watching SpaceX activity. There’s something about mixing beach breezes with a bit of rocket science that makes for a pretty unforgettable day.

The Calm After the Storm… and Then Mosquitoes
A week after the flood, the mosquitoes showed up like they were invited to a party. We were swarmed. They were everywhere, and let’s just say—our bug spray got a workout. We kept things low-key after that.

Charlene also had a few rough days dealing with her MS, but, as always, she pushed through like the fighter she is. Some days just hit harder than others, but she never lets it hold her back for long.

Despite the weather challenges, the resort itself offered plenty to enjoy. Sun-N-Fun is known for its wide variety of activities, and their Sunday ice cream social is a real crowd-pleaser. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers, swap stories, and treat yourself to something sweet.

Another Big Move (All 8 Miles of It)

This week brought us one of the longest travel days in a while—a grueling eight miles from Encore Fun-N-Sun to Encore Tropical Winds. 😄 Twenty minutes later (including a stop at a light), we at our new spot.

Just like at Fun-N-Sun, the snowbirds have packed up and left for the north. The Thousand Trails section here was nearly empty when we arrived. Quiet is nice, but it always feels a little strange seeing so many empty sites.

While we were parked, I took advantage of the time to install a new supplemental braking system from NSA, the ReadyBrake. It’s a mechanical surge brake system that uses the towed vehicle’s motion to apply proportional braking. No electronics, no fuss—just a solid, reliable setup that adds an extra layer of safety when we’re towing the truck. I also added the Towed Vehicle Emergency Break Away Kit, just in case anything ever goes sideways on the road. Hopefully, we’ll never need it, but better safe than sorry.

Here’s the product I used:
🔧 NSA ReadyBrake Towed Vehicle Supplemental Brake System

We also did a big supply run, stocking up on groceries and all the essentials. Boondocking is coming up, so we’re trying to be as prepared as possible. The rig is loaded down like we’re heading out on a survival mission!

But the highlight of the week? April 13 marked our three-year anniversary of full-time life on the road! It’s wild to think how far we’ve come—literally and figuratively—since we rolled out for the first time. The adventures, the people, the challenges, and the memories… we wouldn’t trade it for anything. Life on the road has become home.

Next on the to-do list: call our upcoming stop. From what we can tell, we might only have partial hookups there. Not a huge deal, but we want to make sure we’re ready.

Until next week—keep rolling, keep smiling, and keep the journey going.

(Originally planned through April 28, but nature and nonsense had other plans.)

We rolled out of Tropical Winds around 9 AM, heading north with the strong Texas wind doing most of the heavy lifting. For once, the wind was on our side—no complaints there! We breezed through the border patrol checkpoint, thanks (once again) to our trusty “Retired Deputy Sheriff” plate. Still paying dividends!

Electrical Shenanigans

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a lovely site… and a sign on the electrical panel. Never a great first impression. A quick call to the front desk assured us it was “fine,” but our Power Watchdog begged to differ. Turns out L2 and Neutral were doing the Texas two-step—completely out of sync. After some polite but firm discussion (and no guarantee they’d cover damages if our rig fried), they moved us one site over. No electrical gymnastics there.

The Trees: A Love/Hate Relationship

From a distance, the trees are majestic. Up close? High-maintenance, sap-hurling freeloaders. The thick canopy killed any hope of using Starlink—those trees weren’t just tall, they were total signal snobs. AT&T limped along, enough to check email if you weren’t in a rush… or expecting pictures.

Deer Drama (Or Lack Thereof)

Jenny and Jaxon, couldn’t have cared less about the 15–20 deer that adopted our site as their morning chill zone. There were a few polite stares exchanged—“You good?” — “Yeah, I’m good.” — and then everyone moved on with their day.

Charlene, on the other hand, was in heaven. With carrots and apples in hand, she quickly made deer friends. Like, real friends. They not only ate from her hand, but they also let her pet them. It was mutual adoration. I’m not saying Char was about to start naming them, but… yeah, she named one Bambi.

Mother Nature’s April Shower Pranks

The night before Easter Sunday, a thunderstorm rolled in, and the “generous” southern oaks above rained down catkins, pollen, twigs, leaves, and some mystery goop that must be native to this exact campsite. The RV looked like it had been through a plant-based car wash. I got up on the roof the next morning—it was like nature had hosted a frat party up there.

And just when we thought it couldn’t get worse—bam, second thunderstorm. The mess? Doubled. By the time it was over, I had no choice but to break out the pressure washer and give the rig a top-to-bottom spa day. The trees may be pretty, but they sure know how to throw a tantrum.

A Shorter Stay, But Not Short on Memories

At that point, we decided to cut the stay short and roll out four days early. But even with the mess and flaky power hookups, it was a memorable stop, especially for Charlene.

Medina Lake may have been dry, but Charlene’s heart was full.

April 24, 2025 – Drive from Thousand Trails Medina Lake to Foster Park (near San Angelo, TX)

We left Thousand Trails Medina Lake behind and cruised northwest through Texas Hill Country. It was a smooth and easy drive, but I was surprised by the number of farms we passed, especially fields of wheat. I didn’t expect so many sheep ranches either!

Our overnight stop was Foster Park, a peaceful little county park near San Angelo that offers free overnight camping for up to three nights. We always appreciate finding places that welcome travelers like us.

🚐#242 – April 25, 2025 – Drive from Foster Park to Free Levelland Campground, TX

After a quiet night under the stars, we rolled out toward Levelland. A quick pit stop at Walmart turned into a caffeine boost for Charlene — she grabbed a cold brew from Starbucks while I picked up a few supplies.

Levelland has a city-sponsored campground where travelers can stay free for up to three nights, complete with water and electric hookups. What a gem!

At first, our Power Watchdog surge protector flagged every pedestal with errors. After double-checking with a multimeter, I suspected the Watchdog might be the problem. I swapped out the surge module and found it full of water inside. No wonder it was acting up! Still scratching my head on how water got in there.

⚡ RV Tip: Always carry a spare surge module… and a multimeter!

Despite a neutral issue on the 50-amp plug, the 30-amp worked just fine. While checking everything out, a friendly city Public Works guy stopped by, and I passed along what I found. Towns that offer places like this really deserve a lot of credit.

The drive itself was interesting too — oil fields, solar farms, windmill farms, and traditional farmland all mixed together. At one point, I’m pretty sure we even saw potatoes growing!

That evening brought tornado warnings, hail, and some intense weather. We kept an eye on it through YouTube and watched the storms roll by right outside our window. Crazy night, but we stayed safe.

🚐#243 – April 26, 2025 – Drive from Free Levelland Campground to Shark Beach Burgers, Amarillo, TX

We woke up to more rain but caught a break in the weather to pack up and go. Fresh water tank topped off, waste tanks emptied — ready to roll!

Driving north, we passed through areas that had been battered by tornadoes the night before. You could still see the damage along the way. This stretch of Texas felt a lot like Indiana farmland… just at 3,300 feet elevation!

Before we left, Shark Beach Burgers messaged us that their parking lot was flooded. A quick call later, they assured us they had a dry spot for us to park. Gotta love RV-friendly businesses like that.

🍔 Shark Beach Burgers: Burgers, Mexican cola, and live music under the Texas sky!
(Well… “live music” turned out to be Texan-style karaoke, but it was still a blast!)

Charlene teased me for knowing every song they played — guess that officially makes me “old.” 😂

🚐#244 – April 27, 2025 – Leaving Texas | Cadillac Ranch, Midpoint Café & Beyond

We left Amarillo behind in a thick morning fog and made a fuel stop before heading to one of the most iconic places on Route 66 — Cadillac Ranch.

🛻 Cadillac Ranch – A Texas Landmark
In 1974, a group of artists called The Ant Farm installed ten Cadillacs nose-down into the ground, representing the evolution of Cadillac tailfins. Visitors are encouraged to spray paint the cars, making it one of the most colorful, ever-changing pieces of American pop culture.

I had picked up a can of orange spray paint to represent MS Awareness (and our journey).

Because of the storms the night before, the cars were ankle-deep in mud and water. That didn’t stop Charlene — she handed me her shoes and waded barefoot through the muck to paint orange MS ribbons and Mitchell’s name on two of the Cadillacs.

While we were there, a group of young women from a hiking club approached us. After hearing about Charlene’s journey, they prayed with her — an incredibly moving moment. Just pure kindness and connection at the right time. 💖

🍑 Midpoint Café – Adrian, TX
After Cadillac Ranch, we stopped at the famous Midpoint Café, the official halfway point between Chicago and Los Angeles on Route 66.

Fun Fact: Adrian, Texas, marks the exact midpoint of Route 66 — 1,139 miles from both ends!

We picked up souvenirs, a peach pie, and a blueberry cobbler to celebrate. Calories very well spent. And of course, we got our obligatory selfie at the Midpoint Line.

From there, we crossed into New Mexico, our first stop being Russell’s Car Museum.

Inside, I called my dad back in Germany and gave him a virtual tour. When he saw a 1958 Chevy Bel Air Convertible, his face lit up — it was his second car when he first came to the U.S. He even spotted a 1956 Ford Crown Victoria just like the one he used to drive. It felt really special to share that moment with him across the miles.

Our final stop for the day was San Jon Village Campground, a simple little community park that offers free overnight parking. Another small town that knows how to make travelers feel at home.

And just like that, we spent our first night on the legendary Route 66.

# 245 April 28, 2025 – Route 66 Auto Museum, Santa Rosa, NM
We got a late start for this short drive, and once again, the wind was relentless. I-40 in New Mexico almost rivals New York for rough roads. Thankfully, the Route 66 Auto Museum has a few full-hookup RV spots—and we scored one. That meant laundry day and long, hot showers.

We took time to walk through the museum, and I had a real blast-from-the-past moment when I spotted the same John Deere toy tractor I had as a little kid in Germany. Charlene was more interested in how many people kept stopping in to visit the place.

# 246 April 29, 2025 – Sierra Blanca Brewing Co, Moriarty, NM
This drive was short and smooth—finally a day with a tailwind! We stopped at Sierra Blanca Brewing Co. for some excellent beer and good company. We made new friends and enjoyed the relaxed vibe of the taproom. Fantastic day all around.

# 247 April 30, 2025 – Angel Peak, NM (Boondocking)
The wind returned, and we skipped two planned stops because the dirt roads weren’t RV-friendly. Plan C led us to Angel Peak. The main campground at the end of the road was too small for us, but we found a picnic area with a large parking lot—and had the place all to ourselves.

It was quiet and peaceful, with a stunning sunset and an even better sunrise (at least for the early riser in the RV—someone prefers to sleep in). The wind finally died down overnight, making for a truly beautiful and restful stay.

# 248 May 1–2, 2025 – Sleeping Ute RV Park, Towaoc, CO
We booked two nights at the casino RV park, and it’s been a great base. Cortez is the nearest town with a Walgreens for miles, so we were able to get our prescriptions refilled.

On Day 2, we made a day trip to the Four Corners Monument—because if you’re nearby, how can you not go? Later, we explored Mesa Verde National Park, where Charlene got another stamp in her National Parks book. We hiked the last few steps up to the fire lookout, and though it wiped Char out and I had to carry Jaxon, we were all rewarded with amazing views.

The nights got chilly, but between the heat pump and the furnace, we stayed nice and cozy.

“Life on the road is great.”

Our latest stop landed us under the shadow of a 60-foot balancing boulder known as Mexican Hat Rock — because apparently, giant stone sombreros are a thing in Utah. But first, we had to earn this boondocking bliss.

Our journey started with a detour when the Marathon station by the casino decided propane was optional. (Pro tip: If you advertise propane, maybe have someone who can pump it.) Their loss. Love’s took our money instead — and our RV tank left full and happy.

Midway through the drive, the pavement decided it had done enough and just… stopped. Suddenly, we were off-roading in a 39-foot RV, cruising through a construction zone that looked more Mad Max than Utah DOT. At least the scenery kept our jaws firmly dropped, especially as we neared the Valley of the Gods. Think Monument Valley’s less touristy, more introverted cousin.

Once we rolled into the Mexican Hat Rock area, we found an open campsite and set up base.

After setting up, we unhooked the car and cruised the Valley of the Gods scenic drive. I promise, no video or photo can capture the scale and serenity of those rock formations. But we tried anyway. (Coming soon to a YouTube channel near you!)

That evening, the wind decided to show off. Gusts over 30 mph stirred up a mini dust storm, and Jenny, who was not impressed, had to be carried back to the RV like royalty. My arms still haven’t forgiven me.

The next morning’s sunrise was a stunner. Of course, someone missed it again. No names. (But she knows who she is.)

Before lunch, we stopped at the iconic Forrest Gump Point, where ol’ Forrest famously stopped running. We took photos, didn’t run (MS, you know), and kept on going. From there, we braved the Moki Dugway, a gravel road carved into a sheer cliff face with 3 miles of tight switchbacks. I kept my eyes glued to the road while Charlene hopefully enjoyed the panoramic views of Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley. Either that or she was too busy gripping the armrest.

We made it up to Muley Point East, a quiet overlook with views that stretch for miles, especially rewarding after that white-knuckle climb.

Later that afternoon, we headed to Sand Island Petroglyphs near Bluff, where rock art dating back as far as 2,500 years covers the cliff face. Unfortunately, a light rain muted the contrast, but we still caught some fascinating etchings and snagged a few decent photos. The real show came on the drive back — nature decided to throw in a golden-hour light show as an apology.

Back at camp, we wrapped up the night with new friends we’d recently met, who joined us for a night at Mexican Hat Rock. Good stories, great views, and the kind of connection that only happens when you’re out chasing horizons.

We woke to the sound of rain tapping on the roof—and a red-speckled RV. Welcome to northern Arizona, where dust turns to mud in your sleep. After waving goodbye to our friends Jay and Gabi, we hit the road. Safe travels, you two. Hope our trails cross again.

The drive through Monument Valley was nothing short of stunning. We didn’t stop at Forrest Gump Point, but we were just grateful not to have to swerve around anyone standing in the middle of the road trying to reenact the scene. Some tourists really do forget the “road” part of scenic byway. (You know who you are. Ignorance may be bliss, but it doesn’t belong in the middle of traffic.)

Every hilltop revealed a fresh panorama, each more breathtaking than the last. By the time we rolled into Page, both Max (our RV) and Reno (the truck) were due for a serious wash. We hit the car wash first thing, though I didn’t plan on scrubbing my shoes too. At least they’re black again, not brick red.

Antelope Point Marina & RV Park didn’t disappoint. I had booked us a spot with panoramic views, and it delivered. If you’re up early enough, the sunrise paints the desert in colors you didn’t know existed.

We kept things low-key that first night. It was our 19th wedding anniversary—a day that should’ve felt more joyful. But the silence where Mitchell’s phone call used to be hung heavy. We felt it.

On Tuesday, we took a one-hour boat tour through Antelope Canyon. It’s incredible what the Colorado River has carved out over time. Towering Navajo Sandstone walls wind tightly through the landscape—a reminder of how patient and powerful nature can be. This section of the canyon was flooded when Glen Canyon Dam was built in the 1960s, creating Lake Powell and turning parts of the original canyon into stunning waterways.

Dinner that night was at Jadi’Tooh Restaurant. We ordered ribeyes, medium rare—but what landed on our plates was sirloin, and not a good one at that. I don’t complain often, but let’s just say a seasoned chef with over 30 years under his belt isn’t easy to fool. We swapped them for Navajo Tacos, which, ironically, didn’t have tacos at all. Instead, they used Navajo fried bread—and I’m sold. Now I need to learn how to make that stuff. So many ideas for toppings… The server made the experience better with great service.

Wednesday brought light rain and cooler temps—perfect for our trek to Horseshoe Bend. The hike is just ¾ of a mile each way, but with soft red sand and a slight incline, it’s no walk in the park. I ended up carrying Jaxon most of the way—our little guy is aging fast. Jenny, our low rider, came back caked in red dirt. Of course, both dogs had just gotten baths. Timing: not my strong suit.

Charlene made the full hike, resting as needed. Her step counter read 4,400 steps by the time we were back at the truck. She pushed through, even managing to snag her Glen Canyon National Park passport stamp at the visitor center. She was wiped out afterward and took a well-deserved nap.

Meanwhile, I started planning the next leg of our journey. First up: new front tires in Flagstaff.

#251 May 8, 2025

Our first stop after leaving Page? A quiet, open spot in the Coconino National Forest, just shy of Flagstaff. It’s dispersed camping at its best—neighbors distant enough that you almost forget they’re there. Steak for dinner. Can’t go wrong with a quiet forest and a good steak.

#252 May 9, 2025

Friday morning, we headed into Flagstaff for a much-needed tire upgrade at Southern Tire Mart—new front tires at last! The old ones were giving us that built-in washboard-road experience. Now we glide a bit smoother, though I still need to find a place that can do a proper front-end alignment. Judging by the wear, it looks like a toe issue.

We made a quick detour to Meteor Crater but turned right around after seeing the entrance fee. Let’s just say it didn’t seem worth the price of admission. Char took the wheel from there, and we made our way east toward one of the most surreal landscapes in the Southwest.

We landed a Harvest Hosts stay near the Petrified Forest National Park, complete with power, always a bonus. This park is something special. Stretching across Arizona’s high desert, it’s filled with 200-million-year-old trees that have turned to stone over time. The process, called permineralization, happens when minerals replace organic material, preserving the wood in stunning detail. The result? A landscape littered with what looks like colorful logs, but they’re solid rock.

What do you do when the park’s trails are not exactly disability-friendly? You roll up to the info center, grab some homemade ice cream, and enjoy the views from the accessible overlooks. Sometimes, slowing down is the best way to take it all in anyway.

#253 May 10, 2025

Saturday, we headed west again, making a spontaneous stop at Corva/Welch Road Dispersed Camping. This boondocking spot was surprisingly packed—at least two dozen rigs of all shapes and sizes. It’s always a good feeling to find a place that other travelers appreciate too.

Dinner that night? Navajo Nachos with fresh-fried bread. I think I’m becoming a fan. There’s just something about that crispy, doughy base that beats chips every time.

Thanks to my body still ticking on Florida time, I was up early enough to catch a beautiful Mother’s Day sunrise. A peaceful moment to reflect and be thankful, even though someone will not be calling today.

Mother’s Day in the Desert: Sheep, Canyon Roads, and a Floating Purse

May 11 – Mother’s Day and a visit of a herd of sheep
Happy Mother’s Day! Char got to sleep in, and when she got up, I started the day off right with breakfast in the RV—an omelet and some peppermint chocolate chip coffee (her favorite). While we sipped coffee and enjoyed the morning, a herd of sheep wandered right through our site. Jenny looked out the window, puzzled and alert, clearly wondering what kind of weird dogs these were.
Since our next stop was just 40 minutes down the road, we took our time packing up and soaking in the slow pace of the morning. Between breakfast and the sheep show, it gave Char a chance to ease into the day and take her mind off the fact that someone very dear wouldn’t be calling this year.
By noon, we arrived at the Historic Route 66 General Store and Campground in Seligman. It turns out the price has gone up—now $50 a night, which is a bit steep for what’s offered—but we did have full hookups, and we put them to good use. Laundry was caught up for both days, and we both took long, hot showers. Sometimes, that alone is worth the price.
For dinner, we headed over to the Roadkill Café / OK Saloon. Despite the quirky name, the food was excellent. And when we saw their pie display, there was no turning back. Char went with the coconut pie, I had the chocolate cream, and thankfully, they were light and fluffy—otherwise, we might’ve gained more than a pound each.

# 255 May 12 – Down to the Colorado River via Diamond Creek Road
The next day, we set out for Peach Springs, located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. What makes this place so unique is that it’s one of the only locations where you can actually drive into the Grand Canyon and reach the Colorado River by vehicle. The route? A rugged, scenic stretch called Diamond Creek Road.
The road is owned and maintained by the Hualapai Tribe, so you’ll need a permit to access it—fees go toward preserving the area and supporting the tribe’s stewardship. The drive is about 20 miles long, mostly dirt, and can take around an hour depending on road conditions. It winds through some truly stunning terrain, often right alongside (or even inside) the creek bed itself. Flash floods are a real risk here, so checking the weather is a must.
At one crossing, I stopped to record us splashing through a flooded stretch. That’s when Char opened her door… and watched in horror as her purse floated away. Guess who had to wade in and retrieve it? The water actually felt great—cool but not freezing—and I think the 100°F heat at the bottom of the canyon helped.
After soaking in the views (and drying off), we headed back to our campground spot in Seligman. I told Char to surprise me with dinner, and she didn’t disappoint. She returned to the RV with a hot dog for herself, the biggest hamburger on the A&W menu for me, and enough fries to feed an army.
That’s love, RV-style.

#256 – May 13, 2025

Sundowner Saloon – Kingman, AZ

That stupid wind just won’t quit! If it weren’t for the suspension on our RV, this drive would’ve been white-knuckle all the way. Thankfully, we rolled into Kingman in one piece—and looking cleaner than we started. We made a stop at Blue Beacon to blast off the Arizona dust from the RV and gave the truck a much-needed bath too (especially after our Grand Canyon adventure).

The Sundowner Saloon turned out to be the perfect wind-down spot for Taco Tuesday and margaritas. Char had four. Might’ve been one too many? 😂

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#257 – May 14–16, 2025

Poverty Flats – Near Valley of Fire, NV

We’re in Nevada now—and wow, smooth roads at last! I’m officially awarding Arizona the #2 spot on our personal “Worst Roads in the Country” list.

We drove about an hour north of Vegas and set up at Poverty Flats, a popular boondocking area with wide-open views and easy access to Valley of Fire State Park. We were both feeling a bit under the weather, so we took it easy, but still made it out to see Lake Mead and the Valley of Fire.

Valley of Fire Fun Fact: It’s Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its fiery red sandstone formations that were formed over 150 million years ago. Great views from the road, but most trails require a hike, which neither of us was quite up for this time.

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#258 – May 16, 2025

Virgin River Valley – Riverside Road Boondocking

Found another peaceful boondocking spot tucked into the Virgin River Valley, just off Riverside Road. We picked up Charlene’s meds at Walgreens in nearby Mesquite (thanks for being on the ball, pharmacy crew), and as a bonus, our site came with its own natural gun range about 200 yards away. Nothing like the soothing pop-pop of target practice to spice up your desert stay!

Dinner: good old-fashioned BLTs—can’t go wrong.

Charlene was not exactly thrilled about more boondocking ahead, so I quietly booked us three nights at the newer Range RV Campground in Apple Valley, just outside Hurricane, UT. I’ve watched enough of Matt’s Offroad Recovery to think I knew what Hurricane looked like, but let’s just say, it’s not quite how I pictured it!

On Sunday, we took a scenic drive through Zion National Park, which never fails to impress. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers jaw-dropping views of towering red cliffs, winding roads, and lush canyon floors. Although the shuttle system limits private vehicles most of the year, we were lucky to enjoy parts of it by car. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway was the real highlight; its switchbacks, historic tunnel, and panoramic overlooks made the drive unforgettable.

On the way back to the campground, we passed by Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Though we didn’t go in this time, the dunes were visible from the road and looked incredible in the afternoon light. The rolling pink-hued sand is constantly shifting, shaped by high winds, and is a popular spot for off-roaders and photographers alike.

Monday was a lower-key day. Charlene was experiencing some MS symptoms, so we took it easy and knocked out laundry and prep for the next stretch, three weeks of mostly boondocking. Having a full water tank, empty tanks, and clean clothes gives us a good start for the road ahead.

We spent two nights boondocking near the fascinating Parowan Gap Petroglyphs in southern Utah. This natural gap in the Red Hills was carved by an ancient stream, but it’s most famous for its extensive panels of Native American rock art. Archaeologists believe the petroglyphs were created by the Fremont and possibly Ancestral Puebloan cultures, dating back at least 1,000 years. Some of the carvings are thought to represent solar and lunar calendars, making this site not only historically important but also astronomically significant.

Although the petroglyphs were within walking distance, we opted to drive over and explore the area more comfortably. Char even tackled one of the rocky paths until she found herself in a bit of a tricky spot and needed a rescue. I, of course, came to the rescue, eventually.

After taking in the carvings, we followed a dirt road that led up into the surrounding hills. One steep climb added a bit of spice to the adventure, but our Ford Ranger handled it without breaking a sweat. Char started out all smiles, but her enthusiasm waned on the way back down. Let’s just say her concern was elevated. It made for a great video, though, LOL!

On Wednesday, we traveled even further back in time, dinosaur time. We set out to find some nearby dinosaur tracks, and sure enough, we did.
Just a short drive from the petroglyphs is a lesser-known site with preserved dinosaur tracks, estimated to be around 200 million years old. These tracks were left by bipedal theropods during the Early Jurassic period, when this area was part of a vast floodplain. It’s wild to see these footprints just lying out in the open, a reminder of life long before humans carved symbols in nearby rocks. Makes you wonder how many more are still hidden in the sandstone layers.

On the way back, we spotted a perfect photo opportunity, our truck next to a weathered, dead tree high on a hill. Naturally, we had to go for it. That hill definitely called for 4 Low on the drive selector. Char was convinced she was living her final moments and refused to get out of the truck once we reached the top. Admittedly, it was a little steep. But the Ranger didn’t flinch, and besides, we’ve got three rubber ducks on the dash. That makes us official extreme off-roaders, right?

On May 22, we made our way toward Bryce Canyon and found a beautiful boondocking spot just north of the park, off John’s Valley Road. Nestled in the Dixie National Forest, the site was surrounded by towering pine trees and lush green meadows—a truly peaceful place.

Tragically, our beloved Jaxon had a medical emergency that first night and passed away. We laid him to rest beneath a quiet stand of pine trees near our campsite. As we walked and drove through the area, I couldn’t help but think—this is exactly how I’ve always pictured doggy heaven. It’s incredibly hard to leave him behind, but there’s comfort in knowing he’s resting in one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited. In his honor, I renamed the location on iOverlander to Jaxon’s Site.

“If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.”
— Unknown

Jaxon was more than just our travel buddy—he was family, a loyal companion, and a bright spirit on every trail we walked. We’ll carry him with us every mile ahead.

On May 23, we set out to explore Mossy Cave, a short and scenic hike not far from the entrance to Bryce. Unfortunately, we were stopped at the trailhead by a “No Dogs Allowed” sign. It’s frustrating, and honestly, it’s beginning to feel like responsible dog owners—especially those of us who rescue dogs from kill shelters—are being punished rather than supported. It was a big letdown after an already emotional day.

On May 24, we toured Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its towering red rock hoodoos and breathtaking amphitheaters carved by nature’s hand. The views were stunning, and even Jenny wanted to be picked up at one of the overlooks to get a better look. Sharing that moment with her brought a little lightness back into the trip.

Back at camp, we connected with new friends, Heather and Mike from RVing It Up. Great people doing great things; check them out on YouTube! And true to RV life, one of our campsite neighbors happened to be from Germany. The world feels a little smaller when you’re out here on the road.

This was a tough one. Saying goodbye to Jaxon left a hole in our hearts, but knowing he now rests in such a beautiful place, visited often by people and wildlife alike, brings a bit of comfort.

Our first stop was Bear Valley RV & Campground Resort, where Charlene treated herself to a much-deserved long shower—twenty gallons long, to be exact! We also knocked out three loads of laundry. Sometimes, the little things feel like victories.

#263 – May 26, 2025
We woke to frost this morning. Yes, actual ice on the truck!

After fueling up at a Flying J, I spotted a small tire shop nearby advertising alignments. Out of curiosity, I wandered over, and to my surprise, this little spot in the middle of nowhere, Utah, could perform a front-end alignment on our RV. Less than 45 minutes later, we were rolling straight again.

We landed at the Lions Club Campground in Milford, conveniently located across from a grocery store. I picked up some essentials for the fridge and freezer. All stocked up and ready to take on the legendary Highway 50.

#264 – May 27, 2025
After dumping our tanks and refilling our fresh water, we headed west on Highway 21—a taste of just how lonely Highway 50 might be. We cruised past miles of open pastureland, dodging the occasional cow that wandered across the road.

We arrived at Sacramento Pass BLM Campground, which was empty when we pulled in. We snagged our perfect spot… but by evening, it had filled up completely. Glad we got here when we did!

May 28, 2025
Before lunch, we took a dirt road five miles west to Osceola, an old mining town. Not much remains, but the drive was scenic and peaceful.

When we returned, I noticed some low-hanging utility lines across the campground, and some on the ground. Turns out, someone backed their fifth-wheel into a power pole and took it down. I blocked off the area with our dog fence and the honey wagon, then called the BLM office. They promised to notify the power company, but nobody ever showed.

Later, we visited the Black Horse Mine. Like Osceola, not much is left beyond a big hole in the ground and some towering mounds of dirt. Still, it’s always fascinating to see remnants of how silver was mined. I wouldn’t go down that shaft for anything, but again, the real joy was in the journey; those remote dirt roads just draw us in.

May 29, 2025
Today we explored Great Basin National Park. Char proudly got her stamp at the visitor center—another one for the collection! We passed on the Lehman Caves tour, not a hike Charlene can do, and we still had Jenny with us. I’m sure Jenny would love to sniff around in a cave, but dogs aren’t allowed inside.

Instead, we took the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive, a 12-mile climb that winds up to over 10,000 feet. The views are stunning—snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, and vast desert valleys stretched below. We even found some snow! I’m pretty sure it was Jenny’s first time stepping in snow. Char tried pelting me with snowballs, but let’s just say her aim needs work (thankfully!).

On the way back, we stopped for gas in Baker. $4.159 a gallon. Ouch.

Back at camp, we ran into some rangers. I mentioned the downed lines, and they said the power company claimed they were just phone lines. Together, we checked for voltage and confirmed they weren’t live. I had the tools, and they had the manpower—we got the job done.

We wound down the evening with a bit of trip planning and took it easy. Sometimes, that’s just what the soul needs.

We left Sacramento Pass and tackled a climb through the mountains. Max got a real workout on that grade. After an uneventful drive and seven miles of dirt road, we rolled into Willow Creek Campground, part of Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park. We squeezed Max into the last available disabled site. It was a tight fit, but a kind neighbor let us park the truck on his site. Once we were set up, we drove over to check out the charcoal ovens. Jenny was particularly curious; she sniffed around every corner, inside and out.

May 31, 2025

Gleason Creek Recreation Area
I was up early and took advantage of a water spigot right across from our site. Thirty-six gallons later, our fresh tank was full again.
This leg was another short one. We stopped in Ely for gas, then continued on to a boondocking site near the Gleason Creek Recreation Area. Once we were settled, we drove to Garnet Hill for some rock hunting.

Garnet Hill is a public rockhounding area just outside Ely, famous for its deep red garnets embedded in ancient volcanic rock. These semi-precious gems formed in rhyolite lava millions of years ago. After a good rain, you can often find them right on the surface, no digging required. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you’re encouraged to take home a handful of treasure, no permit needed.

Back at camp, we explored the area a bit. This is Nowhere, Nevada, for sure. Wide open and silent. We had the entire place to ourselves.

June 1, 2025
Rock hunting wore us out. We took it easy today—just some TV time and homemade pizza. Charlene spotted a car driving to one of the nearby boondocking sites, but otherwise, it was quiet.

#266 | June 2, 2025
Illipah Reservoir Recreation Area
Another short drive brought us through the mountains to this BLM campground.

Originally built in the 1800s to provide water for nearby mining operations, Illipah Reservoir is now a peaceful public spot for camping, fishing, and birdwatching. Trout are often stocked here, and the remote setting gives it a tranquil feel. Free camping, wide-open views, and crisp air made it a solid stop.

The wind kicked up hard in the afternoon, and the night turned cold.

June 3, 2025
We decided to stay another day. I spotted Belmont Mine on Google Maps. About 12 miles away, and the reviews said it was accessible with a high-clearance 4×4. That’s our Ranger, so off we went.
We first stopped at the old mill and explored a bit. Then we pushed on to the mine itself. The road to the mill was already a bit… “technical.” The stretch to the mine? Let’s just say it was very off-road.
I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’ve got serious clearance, 4WD, and solid off-road driving experience. The last half-mile is borderline dangerous.
But if you can make it, it’s incredible to see what’s still up there.

#267 June 4, 2025
Silver Sky Lodge RV Park – Eureka, NV
We pulled in around noon and were warmly greeted by the owner, who guided us into our site and then gave me a firehose of local info. It was the longest setup we’ve ever had, but what a great guy.
After getting settled, we unhooked the truck and toured Eureka. What a town.

Known as “The Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road,” Eureka was once Nevada’s second-largest city during the silver boom of the late 1800s. Today, it still holds onto its Wild West charm with beautifully restored buildings like the Eureka Opera House and the Jackson House Hotel. It’s a surprising little pocket of history along Highway 50.

Later, Charlene called me outside. Turns out a couple from Germany had just arrived. I helped get them in touch with the owner, and they were parked right next to us. That night, we swapped stories around the RVs. Funny how those moments always happen when you least expect them.

#268 | June 5, 2025
Hickison Petroglyphs Recreation Area & Interpretive Site
In the morning, I filled up on cold mountain spring water and said goodbye to our new German friends. It was a short drive to another BLM campground: Hickison Petroglyphs.

This interpretive site preserves a collection of prehistoric petroglyphs carved into the rocks by indigenous peoples over 1,000 years ago. A short walking trail winds past the carvings, with signs explaining their cultural significance and the area’s ancient past. Sadly, due to vandalism, cameras now watch over the site. Some people just can’t leave history untouched.

Jenny and I took a short hike to see the petroglyphs up close. Quiet and reflective.

June 6, 2025
I was up early enough to catch a breathtaking sunrise. After a few hours, Charlene woke up, and we drove to check out Stokes Castle near Austin.

Stokes Castle is a three-story stone tower built in 1897 by Anson Phelps Stokes, a wealthy mining executive who wanted a European-style summer home. It was used for just a couple of months before being abandoned. The structure still stands as an oddball monument to ambition and isolation.

Austin itself is a near-forgotten mining town tucked into the mountains, with steep streets, old buildings, and a lot of character. Definitely one of those “blink and you’ll miss it” gems.

On the way back, we scouted out our next camping options. Back at our site, Jenny and I went for another short hike.
Dinner tonight? Cheese ravioli. Simple. Satisfying.

June 7, 2025
After scouting out Spencer Hot Springs the day before, we decided to skip it and stay put for another two days.

While poking around Google Maps, I spotted a place called Toquima Cave. It looked like it might be accessible, and I saw a trail that seemed to get close. So, naturally, I decided we had to check it out, because nothing says “fun” like trusting a satellite image in the middle of Nevada.

Of course, this led us straight into yet another off-road adventure. The trail was shorter than our last ordeal, but no less “exciting.” At one point, Charlene clutched the door handle, gave me the look, and muttered something about updating her marital status. 😬

By the time we hit the roughest patch, she was already planning out the custody arrangement for the dog and deciding who got the RV. (Spoiler: I don’t think I was getting either.) 😂

As mentioned, most of the drive was on dirt roads. Along the way, we finally spotted some antelope and a few wild burros, which are always a treat out here. We were also surprised by an abandoned mine, which is always cool to stumble across.

We swung by Spencer Hot Springs again to check out the main spring. What we saw there only confirmed our decision to skip staying; it just wasn’t our scene this time.

From there, we drove up toward Toquima Cave. I was able to find a path that made it possible for Charlene to get up and see the cave, and she wasn’t disappointed.

Toquima Cave is a hidden gem tucked into the side of Pete’s Summit. What makes it special are the pictographs, hand-painted symbols and shapes left behind by the Western Shoshone people. Unlike the petroglyphs we’ve seen carved into stone, these are painted onto the walls in reds, blacks, and whites. Some of the images are believed to be hundreds, even thousands, of years old. The cave itself is gated to protect the artwork, but you can get a great view through the bars and soak in the spirit of the place.

Back at the truck, Char was pretty pooped from the climb. On our way back, we stopped to explore that abandoned mine a bit more. We even found what looked like someone’s old “house”, a one-room shelter carved right into the hillside. It was surprisingly cool inside. Whoever built it clearly knew how to stay out of the sun. Smart thinking.

June 8, 2025
Sunday was a rest day. Char needed to recover from the climb to the cave — well earned. Later in the afternoon, we stretched our legs on a short hike at the campground so she could see some of the petroglyphs nearby.

#269 — June 9, 2025
We rolled out late, around noon, just another short travel day, RV style.

Destination: our last stop on the Highway 50 journey — Middlegate Station. But before that, we had to pay a visit to the legendary Shoe Tree. It was here that I let go of my last piece of work life: my old work boots. They served me well through the years in jail and many rugged hikes. The Shoe Tree felt like a fitting final resting place.

From there, Middlegate Station was just a stone’s throw away. Since it was already after 5 p.m. in Florida, we declared it beer o’clock and went in for a cold one (or two, in my case).

Dinner came later, a burger for me, a Reuben for Char, and yes, more beer. Instead of hanging a dollar on the ceiling like many others, we left our mark by adding one of our stickers to the entrance door. A little piece of Our Voyage with MS now lives at Middlegate.

#270 — June 10, 2025
Char was up early, just after 8:00, and treated herself to a pancake breakfast.

From there, we pointed the rig west for one last ride on Highway 50. We fueled up in Carson City and climbed over the mountains, eventually landing in South Lake Tahoe.

We’re now set up at Tahoe Valley Campground, tucked beneath a canopy of trees. Despite all the shade, Starlink isn’t too obstructed, and AT&T is working fine, a win for RV internet.

Time to shift gears, now it’s family time.

Our final stretch along Highway 50 brought us into South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe Valley Campground. But first, we had to climb over the mountain. The scenery? Absolutely stunning. The RV? Slowed to 40mph on the incline. But we made it, no breakdowns, no honking from angry drivers, just the satisfaction of conquering another mountain pass.

One memorable highlight on the way in was Cave Rock, home to a two-lane tunnel carved through the stone. Here’s the catch: the right lane tops out at 9’11” and the left at 12’3”, both too low for our RV. So, to make it through, you have to straddle both lanes for the full 17’10” clearance. A little nerve-wracking, but we squeezed through just fine.

Our three-week stay was filled with family visits, a Quest Lab appointment, and saying goodbye to our beloved Miniature Golf Cart, which officially found a new owner. Next on the shopping list: e-bikes!

I lost count of how many times we drove SR207 between South Lake Tahoe and Gardnerville. It’s a scenic route, but after a while, the curves and climbs start to blur together. Still, it’s hard to beat mountain views like those.

We made time for some classic sightseeing, too. A drive around Lake Tahoe was a must. One of our first stops: Glen Alpine Falls near Fallen Leaf Lake. Getting there involved navigating a tight, busy one-lane road. Honestly, it rattled me more than the off-road trail to the Belmont Mine. Local drivers flew down it like they were late for a NASCAR race. But the reward? A stunning waterfall. No picture can really capture it.

Charlene, of course, didn’t listen to my warnings. She climbed over a fallen tree and up a steep hill to get the best view. I had to help her back up, and she paid the price that evening with sore legs and a well-earned massage.

The rest of the lake loop was just as dramatic. Along SR89, we were treated to gorgeous views and a white-knuckle section where the road hugs a ridge with steep drops on both sides and no guardrails. Another “we survived” moment.

Oh! On June 21, we got an unexpected treat, snow! Charlene went full Florida mode, dancing in it and trying to catch flakes on her tongue like a kid seeing winter for the first time.

The rest of our stay was spent relaxing and enjoying time with Charlene’s aunt. Slower days, great conversations, and a little bit of peace before the next leg of the journey.

#272 – July 1, 2025 – Fort Sage OHV Area
We finally said goodbye to pollen-infested South Lake Tahoe, but not before giving both the front and rear of the RV a good cleaning. The windshield was so caked in gunk, we could barely see through it. Char was a little sad to leave, but we’ll see her Aunt again in two weeks. Meanwhile, the rear seat of the truck is now packed with pots and pans, ready for their new home up in Washington.
Our first stop was the Fort Sage OHV area,  a peaceful spot in the high desert. Quiet, wide open, and capped off by a beautiful sunset. The only oddity? A lone car camper who decided to cozy up a little too close, despite acres of open space around us. There’s always one.

#273 – July 2, 2025 – Gold Dust Potato Processors & Walker Farms
The “Loneliest Highway” theme continued as we pushed on through northeastern California. A bit more traffic, but still pretty remote. Between our last gas stop north of Reno and this Harvest Host spot, 250 miles later and two miles into Oregon, I counted exactly one Dollar General and two General Stores. But hey, we made it through California without paying for their ridiculous gas prices. The highest we saw was $5.49 a gallon. And apparently, that’s considered cheap there.
We were warmly greeted at the farm by Jan, who welcomed us with chips and fresh potatoes. So yeah, dinner is planned. Char wasn’t feeling great, so we skipped sightseeing and took it easy.

#274 – July 3, 2025 – Edenvale Winery

$3.89 for gas, and we were happy about it? Have we completely lost our minds? It’s still high, but after what we saw in California, it felt like a bargain. Our route took us down Highway 140, part of the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, known for its dramatic views, volcanic peaks, and the kind of scenery that reminds you you’re not in the desert anymore. Once we arrived at Edenvale Winery, we treated ourselves to a flight of wines each, and then a little extra. Turns out they’ve earned every one of those medals. The wines and the pear cider were so good that we did what any responsible RV couple would do, we overspent on bottles we now have to find room for.

#275 – July 4, 2025 – Wolf Creek Park
This one turned out to be a hidden gem. I booked it hoping we’d be far enough from fireworks to keep things quiet for Jenny, and I was right. Nestled in the woods, I expected electricity but was pleasantly surprised to find water hookups too. So the fresh tank got a refill. What I didn’t realize was that we’d have a massive pull-through site right on the creek. The first thing I did was set up a chair for Char by the water. She never used it, because she and Jenny were already off exploring the creek! Jenny loved every minute of it. Later that evening, we sat by the water and watched Jenny explore again, completely mesmerized. And fireworks? We didn’t hear a single one. Jenny made it through another 4th safe and sound. What an incredible little place this is.

After another scenic drive through Southern Oregon, we arrived in the woods. Man, it was cold here. I knew about the influence the Pacific has on the weather and the temperatures near the coast, but I had no idea. The beach here is pretty inaccessible for someone with a walking disability. The cold, strong wind was no help either, but we made it onto the beach the first afternoon. Char needed a day to recover after that. I was a little disappointed to find out that all beach buggy tours were booked out. Guess we will have to come back someday. Monday, we drove a little inland to (hopefully) see some waterfalls. We drove along Sweet Creek and found one spot that had a parking lot and a trail. Surprisingly, Char was able to walk down and back to Elk Wallow Falls. Of course, she didn’t listen to me and climbed around the rather flat falls. She had a blast. Once again, Jenny was strangely attracted by the water. On our way back, we turned right on US 101 just past Sea Lion Cave. We found a few pull-outs to take some pictures. Again, the temperature difference is mind-boggling. From 55F at the campground to 86F near the falls and back to 57F at the cave. On the drive back to the campground, we noticed a van at a lookout that said something about MS on the side of the van. So we did a U-turn and stopped. We were greeted by Butch. He manned a supply stop for Bike the US for MS. They were biking through the area. We had a nice chat and got a picture for Facebook. Good to see MS Awareness in action.

The day started with what I thought was a serious Starlink router issue, no signal, no connection, just silence from the satellite heavens. After some troubleshooting (and a few choice words), I discovered the problem: I had left the protective cap on the plug. Turns out, Starlink doesn’t work when you muffle it with a hat. Who knew? NASA, call me.

But even without the cap, we weren’t getting far. This campground sits in a one-bar cellphone zone, no matter your carrier. Starlink won’t work here anyway because of the thick tree cover, and while the campground offers free WiFi, it’s more like wishful WiFi.

Our scenic drive? More like a foggy mystery tour. We caught glimpses of beauty through the veil, but mostly it was a whiteout. Once we arrived at the campground, we were met not with a warm welcome, but with rule enforcement. The lady at the front desk made it clear: if she caught Jenny off-leash, she’d take her and not give her back. Then she warned us that if she saw us with alcohol near the activity center or pool, we’d have to pour it out, followed by a write-up and a possible suspension of our membership. Good thing she’s not a mind reader. Cheers.

Once we settled in, Jenny and I hiked to the beach. Later, I brought Char down too. You can actually drive onto the beach here, and of course, we did. Not that there was much to see, the fog was still clinging to everything.

By Wednesday, the skies began to clear just enough for a few photos of Chief Kiwanda Rock. Just in time before the parking police found us. $10 to park? For fog?? I did start to wonder if the tide ever gets low enough to drive around the rock. We got pretty close from the beach, but I wasn’t about to test ocean karma.

On our last day, the sun finally broke through. We drove the beach for the third time. Jenny ran wild and happy, and since the wind died down, we even caught our first Pacific sunset. Well, almost. A wall of fog was rolling in fast, cutting it short. But it still counts. Fog or not, it was beautiful.

Another slightly foggy, but beautiful drive along the Pacific brought us closer to the Washington border. We filled up just before crossing, paying $4.09 per gallon. That’s our first time over $4 this trip, but still better than the $4.99 waiting on the other side. Small win. This time, we got a warm welcome at Thousand Trails Long Beach. No one trying to take Jenny away from us, which is always a good start! The only hiccup? They assigned us a site made for rigs under 30 feet with no slideouts. Even if I wanted to squeeze in, it wasn’t going to happen. Thankfully, it was a quick fix, and we all had a good laugh.

Jenny and I hiked out to the beach. She loved it. As for the weather, I’ll let you guess. 😏

On Saturday, we crossed back into Oregon to explore the Peter Iredale, a four-masted steel barque that ran aground in 1906 during heavy fog and high seas. It’s been rusting on the beach ever since and now stands as one of the most iconic shipwrecks on the West Coast. While in Fort Stevens State Park, we also visited Battery Russell, a concrete coastal defense fort built in 1904. It was actively manned during both world wars and even shelled by a Japanese submarine in 1942. One of the only attacks on the continental U.S. during WWII. Today, it’s a mossy, echo-filled playground for history buffs and explorers alike. This is where Charlene really got “wrecked”. Pun absolutely intended. The beach near the shipwreck was already a challenge, but Battery Russell gave her two options: a long hike or a steep flight of stairs. She chose the stairs and immediately regretted it. For the return trip, she wisely opted for the long way back. 💪 Despite the workout, she still enjoyed the day and somehow managed to shoot the world’s shakiest video clips, which I now get to feature in an upcoming episode. Thanks, babe. 😂

Sunday was a quiet day to recharge. We knocked out some laundry, did a little RV maintenance, and ran into Clay and Maria from Our Road Less Traveled. Always great crossing paths with fellow nomads.

“Some journeys are uphill—literally and figuratively—but we keep climbing, keep laughing, and keep rolling forward.” 🧡

Let’s see the world! Stairs, fog, and all.

For a change, we actually enjoyed a sunny drive in! And believe it or not, the sun stuck around the whole time we were here. Don’t get too excited, though it was still cold. This place might actually grow on me, if only I could feel my fingers. 😄

What’s truly fascinating is how the beach seems to create its own fog. When the tide goes out, the exposed sand heats up under the sun, and poof, instant fog, like nature’s own smoke machine. I swear it’s just trying to hide all those razor clam shows (that’s the right word for those little telltale dimples in the sand). Sadly, it’s not clam season. My heart aches seeing the highest density of shows we’ve ever come across and not being able to dig even one up. We did manage to collect a whole bunch of sand dollars, though, so that was a win. Surprisingly, seashells were in short supply here, almost nonexistent, really. Other than that, we took it easy. I did manage to find a car wash and knocked some of the beach off Reno. She’s still wearing her “Desert Pin Striping” with pride, though. After our last dinner here, Jenny took me for a walk, straight to the beach path. Since it was our last night, I let her lead. To my surprise, the fog was gone. Could it be? A sunset without fog? At sunset time, we hopped in the truck for one last beach drive, and sure enough, after 11 foggy days, we finally caught the one and only clear sunset on the Pacific. It was still a brisk 55°F, so Jenny trotted to the waterline with us, then made a beeline back to the warm truck. I think even she’s had enough of this summer-that-feels-like-winter. Time to head east again and thaw out!

#280 – Bainbridge Island, WA

The Pacific Coast gave us one final send-off: thick fog and a brisk 55°F. We headed inland after a scenic drive and set up at Eagle Tree RV Park in Poulsbo, WA. From there, it was just a quick 20-minute drive to Charlene’s aunt’s new condo on Bainbridge Island. I unloaded some kitchen gear while Char caught up with her aunt, and we capped the evening with a meatball dinner and a little too much wine, which made for lots of laughs and a warm heart. We were the condo’s first visitors, and though it was a short stay, we promised we’d be back.

#281 – July 18 to July 20, 2025 – Thousand Trails Crescent Bar, WA

Instead of taking the ferry (thanks, but no thanks, Washington DOT, those prices are brutal), we rerouted across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. If that name rings a bell, it’s because the original 1940 bridge infamously earned the nickname Galloping Gertie when it collapsed just four months after opening. Fortunately, today’s version is built to last, although the wind on the way over still gave me a little white-knuckle driving. Despite the scenic beauty, traffic slowed us down by over two hours. Washington’s roads didn’t help either. A special shoutout to I-90 between mile markers 70 and 100, where the right lane rattles your bones and seems like it was patched by someone with a grudge. That stretch just earned Washington a top-five spot on my personal “Worst Roads in America” list. When we arrived, our campsite had mysteriously changed. No explanation, but no big deal. What was a big deal? The electrical hookup. We usually make 30 amps work just fine, but the breaker kept flipping every time we tried to cook dinner. Had to switch to battery power just to boil corn, that’s a first. Speaking of corn, earlier that day, we stopped at a local produce stand that was more tourist trap than farm fresh. Kind of ironic considering it’s surrounded by actual orchards. They mostly offered grocery-store-level produce at premium prices. But Char wasn’t leaving without corn on the cob, and yes, that’s exactly what we had for dinner. 🌽

#282 – July 20 to July 21, 2025 – Fourth of July Summit, ID

Just over the Idaho border, we found a quiet boondocking spot near the Fourth of July Summit. No potatoes in sight, just steep forested hills, tall trees, and fresh mountain air. We had only one neighbor that night, and as soon as we pulled out in the morning, the skies started to sprinkle. Short and sweet stop. Off we go!

Montana greeted us with rain, or rather, Idaho sent us off with it, and it followed us all the way to our boondocking spot near Glacier National Park. Luckily, a nice spot was still open when we arrived.

July 22 – We had a timed entry for the North Fork area and made the trek to Bowman Lake. That dirt road is no joke, our dashcam even triggered two “crash alerts” from all the bouncing! On the bright side, the recent rain meant no dust clouds. The downside? The truck is now the same color as the road, and you can barely read the license plate. We stopped at the iconic Polebridge Mercantile & Bakery for their famous Huckleberry Bear Claws. Pricey? Oh yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

July 23 – The rain finally stopped. I drove into town to gas up, wash the mud off the truck, and pick up some flour. In the afternoon, we headed to Red Rock inside the park. Char had fun scrambling around on the rocks, and Jenny joined in on the adventure.

July 24 – We scored an 11:00 a.m. entry and drove the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road, all the way to the St. Mary Visitor Center and back again. This 50-mile engineering marvel, completed in 1932, climbs over 6,600 feet at Logan Pass and cuts through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Rockies. Every turn reveals a postcard view, towering peaks, and alpine meadows. Char even did a short hike to a waterfall and, true to form, stood on a patch of lingering ice.

July 25 – Char’s body said “nope” today, her personal thermostat set itself to “cold.” It took a while to get her warm and comfortable again. I made another run into town for gas and groceries, then stopped at a roadside spring to fill a gallon of water for coffee and bread-making. Sourdough is in the works, and I baked a batch of brownies. Life is good.

July 26 – The bread turned out perfect (again!). In the morning, I took Char to the spring to fill a few jugs. We decided to tackle the big task: filling our freshwater tank with the 30-gallon water bladder. Two trips later, we were fully topped off and ready for Sunday’s move.

Reflections on Glacier – Rain, rough roads, and muddy trucks aside, Glacier worked its magic. There’s something humbling about standing beneath jagged peaks that scrape the sky or driving a road carved into the heart of the mountains. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how small you are and how grand this world really is. Even with its challenges, this stop gave us everything we came for: wild beauty, quiet moments, and memories that will stick like the mud on our tires.

#284 – July 27 – Owl Creek Dispersed Camping
After a quick water run to refill our spring water jugs, we headed southeast along Highway 83, the Seeley-Swan Scenic Drive, in search of our next boondocking spot near Placid Lake. We landed a peaceful site right beside Owl Creek. Jenny wasted no time exploring the creek, tail wagging and nose down. Charlene and I decided to brave a cold plunge,  though once was enough! For the record, even Florida’s “cold” springs feel like a hot tub compared to these mountain-fed creeks.

#285 – July 28 – Old Montana Prison and Auto Museum
We changed up our route and stopped at the Old Montana Prison and Auto Museum in Deer Lodge. Built in 1871, this fortress-like facility served as Montana’s first territorial prison and operated until 1979. Its history includes prison breaks, harsh conditions, and the echoes of many lives once confined within its stone walls. The museum allows overnight parking, so we settled in for the night. Naturally, we toured the prison, and I couldn’t help but notice the familiar institutional shade of blue, the same one we used back in the Sarasota County Jail. Some things never change, lol. On the way out, we found a tiny ice cream shop. And they had licorice ice cream! A dream come true. As evening rolled in, dramatic storm clouds painted the sky with one of the most breathtaking sunsets we’ve seen yet.

#286 – July 29 – Horse Prairie Campground
We rolled into one of the many free campsites surrounding Clark Canyon Reservoir and picked a spot overlooking the water. Total campers we saw? Zero, besides two others parked out of view. Quiet, scenic, and totally free. Hard to believe places like this still exist. This spot also happens to sit right on the 45th parallel, halfway between the equator and the North Pole. We didn’t throw a big ceremony, but we did mark the occasion with Taco Tuesday in Mitchell’s honor. It felt like the right way to celebrate the moment. With a smile, some good food, and thoughts of him close by.

#287 – July 30 – Snake River RV Park
We made it to Idaho Falls and finally spotted some actual potato fields, check that off the list! At Snake River RV Park, we took care of all the essentials: dumping tanks, refilling fresh water, and knocking out five loads of laundry. Long showers never felt so good. Now we’re ready for another 10 days or so off-grid.

Now that was an unplanned and slightly dramatic start to the day. I turned the key, the RV fired up, and then died immediately. Tried again. Same thing. A few more times for good measure. No dice. Naturally, speculation started flying. We’d just filled up with gas the day before, so the fuel system became the prime suspect. I let the campground staff know we were having issues, and to their credit, they were super helpful and understanding. I called Good Sam Roadside Assistance, and they jumped into action. Within minutes, they had a nearby shop lined up and a tow truck en route. Thinking this might take a while, I called the shop directly to brainstorm. Given the fresh fuel, we suspected a clogged fuel filter, and they agreed it was worth checking. I figured I’d get a head start and try to locate it myself, only to learn that on this model, the filter is built into the fuel pump inside the tank. So that wasn’t happening. Not that I’d have had time anyway, the tow truck arrived in under 45 minutes. A new personal record.

The driver first winched us backwards out of our site, then hooked up the front for towing, which meant removing the driveshaft. That involved a hammer, a dropped cap, and (unbeknownst to us at the time) a few lost needle bearings. File that under “to be continued.” Once at the shop, the tech wasted no time pinpointing the issue: the Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor had failed. Of course, it had to be one of the few German parts on our otherwise American RV. Getting a new one to Idaho Falls would’ve taken a week, until we noticed a similar RV on the lot with a compatible sensor. They let us use it, for the full price, naturally, but it got us back in business.

Well… almost.

Remember that driveshaft? That’s where things got sticky. When the tow truck driver hammered out the cap and dropped it, he lost some needle bearings. So now, we needed a new U-joint. What should’ve taken 30 minutes turned into a full overnight stay, in the RV, parked in front of the shop, on a noisy road, across from railroad tracks. Four trains passed overnight, each with a horn louder than the last. Char was up before 7 a.m., but by 10:00, we were finally rolling again, headed for the Grand Tetons.

Now, I just need to track down the towing company’s contact info, because guess who’s getting the bill for the U-joint?

After four loud trains “entertaining” us through the night and getting the U-joint replaced, we hit the road toward the Grand Tetons. We took Highway 26 over Teton Pass. Probably the toughest climb Max (the RV) has had to tackle so far. Up, over, and down the mountain range, but he handled it like a champ. We fueled up again in Jackson and found an amazing spot at Upper Teton View dispersed camping. Five-day stay limit. And yep, we took full advantage of every one of them. On the first afternoon, I noticed a van with to me familiar plates. Sure enough, they were from Germany. The surprise on their faces when I walked up and started speaking German? Priceless. We ended up hanging out with them, campers we met before in Florida, and another van neighbor. Great people, great stories, and 100% awesome (iykyk). Even Jenny made some new off-leash friends, and she absolutely loved it. 

Unfortunately, the elevation wasn’t so friendly to Char. Her MS flared up again. Bad enough that we had to start her on steroids. That part was tough, but we pushed through. We still managed to check off some Tetons must-dos, including snapping photos of what might be the most photographed barn in the world: the T.A. Moulton Barn. We drove through the park, stopped by Jenny Lake and Lake Jackson, and went on the hunt for wildlife. The only ones kind enough to show up were a herd of bison near Elk Ranch Flats. We’ll take it.

On our last night, we gathered around with some neighbors-turned-friends for Navajo Taco Tuesday (Mitchell doesn’t know what he’s missing), paired with a loaf of my homemade sourdough. More stories were shared, and it looks like we might see these new friends again at our next stop. We’ve been nominated as “scouts” to find the next great site.

Now it’s off to Yellowstone

#290: Bootjack Dispersed Camping – Plan A after checking out Plan B
August 6, 2025
We left the Tetons and headed through Yellowstone. Pretty sure this was the first time we took the RV over 8,000 feet. The drive was surprisingly easy through breathtaking (and literally breath-taking) landscapes. We only had to dodge one or two “tourons” and saw a few elk along the way.

Our first disappointment was Plan B. The boondocking site looked nice, but it was already claimed by a tent and what I assume were car campers. No one was home, though. On to Plan A, Bootjack Dispersed Camping. Pretty packed here too, but we managed to snag a site and set up shop.

I checked Old Faithful’s schedule, and we headed back into the park for a sunset geyser show. Old Faithful was a little late, but it was still impressive to see that fountain of hot steam and water shooting skyward. Char got a front-row seat while Jenny and I watched from further back. Dogs aren’t allowed near the geyser. While waiting, we watched a few families with kids, and I couldn’t help but wonder who really needed the leash and restrictions.

#291: Jenny’s Pool  August 7–11, 2025
Char needed a break and slept in, so I decided to scout other boondocking spots. Jackpot, I found one right on a creek with its own pool. Jenny loves it here. I hurried back, packed up camp, and moved us over. I even shared the location with friends, and they grabbed the site next to us. Since Char still wasn’t feeling great, we hunkered down for two days to recharge her batteries. During that time, I washed the truck (spoiler alert: it’s already dusty again) and did some shopping.

Saturday, we got an early start to tackle the lower loop of Yellowstone. Left around 7:00 AM, back by 2:00 PM. I’m convinced wildlife fears me and my constant thoughts of cooking, because they are scarce. Our count: four lone bison, two elk herds, a chipmunk, a squirrel, and numerous birds. Bears versus guys taking a leak roadside? The score was 0:3, the guys won. One of these days, we’ll see a grizzly. Seeing Yellowstone steaming away from nearly every corner is something else. Too bad Char can’t see most of it, though I have to say, it’s one of the most disability-friendly parks we’ve been to. Dog-friendliness? Not so much. We’ll do the upper loop from our next stop.

#292: Carbella Recreation Area  August 11–14, 2025
After a scenic drive through the northern part of the park, we arrived at a no-longer-free “boondocking” site right on the Yellowstone River. Still a nice spot, though. Originally, we planned to drive the full upper loop, but since it doesn’t include Lamar Valley and we’d already covered more than half, we chose to take the Grand Loop Road through Lamar Valley instead, with a detour on Blacktail Plateau Drive. Good call! We finally (briefly) saw two grizzlies. They were too quick for a photo, but later, Lamar Valley rewarded us with bison everywhere. Our “B’s” were covered. On the way back, we checked out Mammoth Hot Springs and even drove the loop through the area. Yellowstone once again proved to be on the disability-friendly side. A grocery store stop ended with me walking out carrying a bottle of huckleberry cream liqueur.

On Wednesday, we took it easy. After dinner, we drove into the backcountry and got lucky. Six bears in total! The first three were distant, but then came the real show: a mama bear with three cubs, only about 200 yards away in a pasture. The perfect finale to our Yellowstone visit, even if it was technically outside the park.

Time to pack up and roll on to the next adventure.

#293: August 14 – August 16, 2025

Old West RV Park

Our stop at the Old West RV Park turned into a deep-cleaning spa event. For the RV and Jenny. First on the list was sanitizing the freshwater tank. While the solution did its work, I regenerated the water softener and swapped out all four filters. By the time everything was flushed (including the fridge and icemaker), the whole system felt brand new again. The next morning brought a surprise: our “70-gallon” freshwater tank swallowed a whopping 86.5 gallons. No idea how that math works, but it does explain why we usually last longer than expected when boondocking. As mentioned, Jenny got her own spa treatment too. After a good scrub, she was back to being bright white and a pound lighter without all the dirt she’d been hauling around. We capped off the evening with a short walk to the local saloon. A couple of beers each, some laughter, and then back to the RV. Charlene tapped out after two, still my favorite cheap date.

Laundry tally: 7 loads

#294: August 16 – August 17, 2025 Huntley Project Museum

Pulling into the Huntley Project Museum, we were surprised to find the place buzzing with activity. Turns out those “Threshing Bee” signs we spotted along the way weren’t just for decoration; there was a full heritage event happening behind the museum. Old-time machinery, demonstrations, and crowds of people celebrating Montana’s agricultural roots. Sadly, I didn’t have much time to explore it. Instead, my day turned into a 40-mile pharmacy run. The Walgreens I’d ordered prescriptions from closed temporarily, so I had to chase them down at a different location. While I was out, I loaded up at Walmart and swung through Camping World. Got lucky there, picked up a step cover, a new gas strut for the entry door, and oil for both the RV and the generator. Maintenance day is creeping closer.

About the Huntley Project Museum:
The museum tells the story of how irrigation transformed the Yellowstone Valley. With pioneer homesteads, restored farm equipment, and exhibits from the early 1900s, it’s a glimpse into the lives of the settlers who turned dry prairie into farmland after the Huntley Irrigation Project launched in 1907.

Fun fact: Just down the road is the MillerCoors grain storage facility in Huntley, one of the largest in the U.S. It can hold more than 2 million bushels of barley, much of it grown by local farmers, and helps supply breweries nationwide.

As for our evening? We parked right next to the train tracks. Six locomotives thundered through overnight, each one making sure we didn’t forget where we were. I still say the RV deserves its own train horn.

Train count: 6

#295: August 17 – August 18, 2025

Tilt Würks Brewhouse & Casino

From history to hops, our next stop was Tilt Würks Brewhouse & Casino. The staff was warm and welcoming, though the beer and food were only so-so. Still, it was a nice place to kick back. The night, however, was anything but quiet. More trains rumbled past, and then a sudden rainstorm tested the RV. That’s when we discovered the window by the driver’s seat leaks a lot. Four towels later, we had managed to keep a flood from forming. Just one more project to add to the repair list.

After a free wash from last night’s rain, we managed to get the RV dirty again, driving down the dusty road to our boondocking spot near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We found a nice perch overlooking the National Grassland. Char went straight to bed for a nap. I think the trains kept her from sleeping. (Spoiler: I heard one during the night.)

Day two brought the heat: 96°F outside. We drove into the park and checked out the prairie dogs, smart little guys, hiding underground where it’s cool. On the way back, we found an ice cream shop in town serving licorice ice cream. Even better than what we had in Montana. We need that at home. That evening, Paul & Marilyn joined us for Taco Tuesday. Great food, better stories.

Wednesday was the scorcher. The forecast said 102°F, but it hit 106.9°F. The generator worked overtime powering both A/C units, and we kept the inside under 80°F all day. At one point, I stepped outside to check the temps and realized the truck had turned into a slow cooker. So, naturally, I wrapped a pork loin in foil and set it on the dashboard. By dinnertime, it was perfectly cooked, just needed a quick sear. Served with a salad, it was probably the most energy-efficient meal we’ve had yet.

Thursday cooled off a bit, and we headed back into the park. I can see why Roosevelt loved it here. Bison, horses, and plenty of other wildlife. And yes… another stop for licorice ice cream. Now it’s time to wrap up and enjoy one night of full hookups before moving on.

Moin Moin,
What started as a simple detour to see one oversized roadside landmark has turned into something bigger, literally. We thought we’d have a tidy trifecta of “world’s largest” stops, but it seems the prairie had other plans. This post kicks off Part One of our World’s Largest Series, covering the first leg of the adventure along with a few memorable stays along the way. By the end, our trifecta was already growing, and we’re only just getting started.

#297 August 22 to August 23, 2025 – Whispering Pines Campground
Just an overnight pit stop at a you-get-what-you-pay-for place. The water pressure wasn’t strong enough to trigger the on-demand water heater, but we got the tanks taken care of and laundry done. Filling up fresh water took patience. One gallon out of the faucet took almost 2 minutes. Laundry Count: 4

#298 August 23 to August 24, 2025 – Phat Fish Brewing
A Harvest Host stop with great beer, fantastic pizza, and one of the wittiest servers we’ve ever had. Char kept throwing zingers all night, but our server had a comeback ready every time. 10/10 entertainment. The parking lot, though? Let’s just say we were cuddle camping. Our neighbor cozied up so close we were practically family. Then, at 3:00 AM, they fired up their “white noise machine.” On the plus side, it mostly drowned out the trains that rumbled by. Char swears six came through that night. I only remember one, so maybe the cuddle camper’s white noise actually worked. Great beer, great pizza, great laughs… questionable sleep. Oh, and I’m not mad at our neighbor. Sometimes you don’t pick cuddle camping, cuddle camping picks you.

#299 August 24 to August 28, 2025 – Sweet Briar Lake
What a boondocking location! Right on a lake, run by the county, with pit toilets and even dumpsters. Monday, we drove out to meet Salem Sue, a giant fiberglass Holstein cow sculpture in New Salem, North Dakota. That’s #1 of what we thought would be a “World’s Largest” trifecta. Tuesday was reserved for Taco Tuesday.
Wednesday, I tackled the kamikaze bugs plastered on the windshield. We could actually see the lake afterward. While hiking with Jenny, I found some trees heavy with wild plums. Ended up with 15 pounds, which will soon meet sugar and rum for future use.

#300 August 28 to August 29, 2025 – North American Bison Discovery Center
Long name, short stay.

From cow to buffalo, this was stop #2 in our “World’s Largest” adventure. In Jamestown, North Dakota, we stood under the World’s Largest Buffalo Monument, 26 feet tall, 46 feet long, and weighing 60 tons. Since 1959, this massive concrete bison has watched over the prairie and welcomed travelers to “Buffalo City.” But the prairie wasn’t finished with us yet. On the drive here, we hit the brakes for a surprise bonus: Sandy, the World’s Largest Sandhill Crane in Steele, ND. At 40 feet tall, she turned our tidy trifecta into a growing collection of giants.

So far, we’ve got:

• Salem Sue, the Cow 🐄
  Sandy, the Crane 🦩
  The Buffalo Monument 🦬
  Two giants down (plus a feathered friend) and one more to go. The “trifecta” has officially outgrown itself. Any guesses where our next “World’s Largest” stop will take us?

Fun Fact: Jamestown, North Dakota, is known for its heritage of Low German (Plattdeutsch) speakers, a dialect I grew up with in Germany. Yesterday, I even chatted with a local lady who, like me, is more of an “understander” than a fluent speaker.

#301 August 29–31, 2025 Wagner Park Campground
On the way here, we stopped at Blue Beacon for a bath. Naturally, that attracted a rain shower in the evening, leaving the back of the RV and the truck looking like the wash never happened. Murphy’s law at its finest.

The campground itself was a pleasant surprise. Before I could even figure out which site we were on, the campground host pulled up, cracked a joke, and escorted us straight there. We’re only here for two nights, but it already feels like the kind of place where you could make friends. I hadn’t planned on disconnecting the truck, but then I discovered that Detroit Lakes is home to nine Trolls by Thomas Dambo (plus a few secret ones). While we ignorantly skipped the trolls in Washington, I decided this time we had to go troll hunting, especially since one of them, Long Leif, is the tallest of them all. Our original “trifecta” of the biggest has now turned into a quintet. We managed to see 3 ½ of them: Alexa was easy. Leif took the life (no pun intended) out of Charlene. The ⅓-mile hike cost her every ounce of energy she had. Jenny and I hiked the ¼ mile to Ronny Funny Face alone while Charlene rested at the pavilion near the parking lot. And the “half”? That was Mashaal the Mammoth, conveniently standing right next to Leif’s parking lot.

#302 August 31–September 2, 2025 Sinclair Lewis Campground
This “biggest” hunt is getting out of hand. After setting up camp, I looked around the area and stumbled across Big Ole the Viking Statue. Fun fact: he’s the same age as me. Since we were only about 30 miles from Alexandria (the self-proclaimed birthplace of America), we had to go see him. Ole might not be the biggest in the world, but he’s definitely the biggest Viking in the USA.

Biggest count: 5.

#303 September 2–4, 2025 Plumeria Alpaka Ranch
Remember that wash at Blue Beacon? Well, it attracted more rain. Now the RV and the truck are even dirtier than before. On the bright side, we made it to one of our favorite Harvest Hosts. On the way, we stopped at the Largest Ball of Twine. At the ranch, we hosted Taco Tuesday for Jennifer and her mother. They surprised us by bringing a tub of licorice ice cream for dessert. They’re the best.

This was Jenny’s first encounter with alpacas. Judging by her expression, she wasn’t quite sure what to make of them, or the other animals. On Wednesday, we wrapped up our “biggest” trifecta by visiting Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store. Of course, we might have bought a little too much. As a bonus, they also had the world’s largest jigsaw puzzle on display. That brings our running count up to eight. So much for the original three! We’re skipping the world’s biggest mustache and the Mall of America, but Charlene is in her happy place right here. She picked up some warm socks, a few bars of Jennifer’s handmade soap, got to interact with the chickens, and, best of all, held a baby alpaca. Pure heaven.

#304 September 4–5, 2025 Durand Brewing Company
After a long goodbye from Jennifer, we crossed into Wisconsin. Well, after stopping for gas and picking up our first 12-pack of Spotted Cow. We ended the day at Durand Brewing Company. Let’s just say: great people, great beer, and plenty of laughter. I lost count of how many we had, but it’s safe to say Charlene was drunk. (Don’t worry, we still love you, Char!)

👉 And just like that, our “trifecta” of the biggest has ballooned into an octo. Who knows where it’ll end?

We rolled into Wisconsin without a packed agenda, and that turned out to be just right. The whole stretch was about slowing down, spending time with family and friends, and knocking out a little RV maintenance along the way.

#305  September 05–08, 2025  Winding Creek Campground

Family time in the backwoods! We spent the weekend around a campfire with our nephew, his family, and his wife’s parents. They all have annual sites here, so it felt like a mini reunion. We burned plenty of wood, laughed a lot, and Mitchell is now visiting with them, too.

#306  September 08–10, 2025  Fremont RV Campground

Just a quick stop with full hookups, for you know what. 😄 I finally made it back to Aldi (always a win!) and we even looked at two properties. One might actually be a contender.

#307  September 10–15, 2025  Fond du Lac Fairgrounds

This “short” week was all about family again, this time with Charlene’s sister. We slowed down, enjoyed the time together, and made the most of the visit.

#308  September 15–19, 2025  Cliffside Campground

More family, more friends, and a bit of RV maintenance. Charlene has blinds in her bathroom again (yay!), and both the RV and generator are running on fresh oil.

#309  September 19–24, 2025  Blackhawk Camping Resort

Not much excitement here, though they did host an “Oktoberfest” on Saturday evening. No lederhosen or beer steins, just a polka band and a parade of golf carts circling the activity hall. The place was packed over the weekend, but by Tuesday morning, only four RVs were left. You can definitely tell the season is wrapping up.

This stop was less about the campground itself and more about a moment we’ll never forget. During our time here, Mitchell was laid to rest. His ashes may lie in the earth now, but his flame lights the path ahead. Every road we take, every mountain we climb, and every mile we roll carries a piece of him with us. His voyage is part of ours, and that makes every journey a little brighter, even through the hardest days.

Of course, life on the road still carried its little side adventures. Behind the campground stretched a haunted forest trail, and Charlene and I couldn’t resist checking it out. Jenny came along and immediately took charge. She led Charlene through the maze of trails like she had drawn the map herself. The first time Charlene went out there, she actually called me to come rescue her because she thought she had gotten lost. After that, she decided Jenny’s wagging tail was a much better compass and just followed her through the woods.

We also made a “beer run” across the border to Beloit, Wisconsin. Why? Because that’s the only way to get our hands on Spotted Cow beer, and when you’re this close, you don’t pass up the chance. And since no stay in the area is complete without a local specialty, we treated ourselves to Rosati’s Deep Dish pizza. Not once, but twice. Even though I don’t really consider that pizza (it’s more like a casserole in my book), I’ll admit it is still pretty good.

This stop will always stand apart in our travels. It was about honoring Mitchell’s life, carrying his memory forward, and finding a little comfort in the simple things: a walk in the woods, a favorite beer, a meal shared together, and Jenny trotting ahead to prove she’s the best trail guide we’ve got.

#311 – October 03–04, 2025 – Iowa 80, World’s Largest Truckstop

Illinois roads shook us good, but we made it! Iowa 80 really lives up to its title as the world’s largest truck stop. And yes, it’s every bit as massive (and loud) as you’d imagine. Jenny was not impressed; way too many air brakes and diesel engines for her taste. 😂

We wandered around, browsed the endless truck and travel goodies, and somehow managed not to spend too much money. Dinner at the restaurant hit the spot. Charlene’s ham steak and my meatloaf were both fantastic. We spent the night right there, surrounded by rows of big rigs, and woke up to a surprisingly peaceful (and gorgeous) sunrise over the sea of semis.

#312 – October 04–05, 2025 – Mississippi Park RV Campground

The drive across Iowa was pure harvest season, golden fields, combines at work, and the smell of crop dust. I had to explain the difference between harvesting and plowing to Charlene, which earned me a laugh and a reminder that city girls don’t always know what’s what out here in farm country. 😂

Our next stop was a small, quiet campground tucked between the Mississippi River and a set of train tracks, and by “tucked,” we mean really close. Thankfully, only one train passed through. The river, though, made up for it all. I caught a stunning sunrise while Charlene caught a few extra Zs. Now it’s time for a long travel day, about 330 miles, since prices near the Lake of the Ozarks are sky-high. A two-for-one travel day it is!

From Cornfields to the Ozarks

After a 6½-hour drive through miles of corn and soybean fields, we rolled into the Ozarks. Since there weren’t any reasonable overnight options along the route (well, there were just not for our budget), we decided to head straight to Charlene’s cousin’s place on Sunday.

We were welcomed with open arms, a hearty pot roast, and plenty of hugs. Their Boston Terrier puppy, Panda, was especially excited to meet Jenny. Jenny tolerated Panda, mostly. I think they reached an understanding by the end.

It turned out to be a week of both laughter and reflection. While we were there, my mom passed away back in Germany. Being surrounded by family and the calm beauty of Bull Shoals Lake brought some comfort.

We spent time sharing meals, swapping stories, and enjoying a relaxing boat ride on the lake. We even looked at a few properties in the area, so who knows, maybe one day we’ll call the Ozarks home, or at least find a place to park the RV while we’re on the way to other adventures.

#314 – October 13–14, 2025 – Love’s RV Stop

After five hours on the road, we called it a night in Holly Springs, MS. We were still rattled from the rough stretch around Memphis. It felt like someone installed unmarked speed bumps on the Interstate. The night at Love’s was thankfully uneventful. Jenny, however, still hasn’t made peace with semis rumbling by. In the morning, we took care of business. We emptied the tanks that needed emptying and filled the ones that needed filling.

#315 – October 14–15, 2025 – Siluria Brewing Company

We had to get Char drunk just to survive the night. The reason? Train tracks, closer than ever before. Five trains rolled by before morning. But we made it through, thanks to some good beer and even better company. They actually have a sign offering a “wheelbarrow service.” Thankfully, Char didn’t need it.

#316 – October 15–16, 2025 – Folklore Brewing & Meadery

This brewery sits in the middle of nowhere, yet it was packed on a Wednesday night. And now I know why. Their beer is excellent. I even took home a six-pack of Kölsch. Charlene didn’t need to get drunk this time. No train tracks in sight. But they did have a wheelbarrow outside, just in case.

#317 – October 16–20, 2025 – Thousand Trails Three Flags

We made it to Florida! Somewhere along the way, we must’ve lost a wheel weight on the driver’s side front tire. It’s vibrating just enough to be annoying. Three Flags surprised us with our favorite kind of campsite: tucked under two trees. Good thing we’re only staying four nights; those trees are messy.

As for yesterday’s brewery stop, they were out of one beer, a Kölsch. After trying one earlier, I now understand why. It’s the best Kölsch I’ve had yet. And I should have gotten more. Char wasn’t feeling her best, so we kept things low-key. No visit to Russell Stover this time.

By leaving here, our 2025 trip officially comes to an end. Now it’s time to clean off all the tree junk the RV collected. Did I mention we don’t like trees?

After wrapping up our 2025 voyage, we rolled into Thousand Trails Orlando and were immediately greeted by familiar faces. It felt like coming home. Within minutes of parking, we were catching up with old friends. The kind of reunion that reminds you just how small and wonderful the RV world can be.
The weeks here were filled with everything we love about this lifestyle: laughter, good food, and shared stories. Taco Tuesdays were a hit (as always), and karaoke nights were a crowd favorite, well, at least for Charlene, who’s the brave one with the microphone. I, on the other hand, do not and will not sing.
Of course, we didn’t just reconnect, we also expanded our circle. New friendships formed and conversations started with “Where’ve you been this year?” and ended with “See you down the road.”
In between the social buzz, we treated ourselves to something new. Two “new-to-us” e-bikes! They’ll open up even more ways to explore the parks and trails ahead.
Thousand Trails Orlando has always been one of those special places that feels less like a stop and more like a hub, a place to recharge, reflect, and get ready for whatever’s next.
As we roll toward our next stop, we’re taking with us the laughter, the stories, and the reminder that the best part of this journey isn’t the miles, it’s the people we meet along the way.

We were greeted by familiar faces once again. But Florida sure didn’t greet us with familiar temperatures. Our first night dropped to a crisp 37°F. That’s Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Y’all need to start heading south.”

Most of this stay was all about appointments. I visited my eye doctor, who promptly broke up with me. Apparently, traveling too much and refusing expensive tests is frowned upon. So yes, I was officially dumped by an Ophthalmologist. Time to find the next one, I guess. 😂

Charlene had her own appointments, too. She now has a new neurologist with the MS team at USF, and we’re genuinely happy with the person they paired her with. They do need to clean up her medication list, though. It looks like a time capsule from years back, but we’ll help them get it sorted.

In between all the “grown-up stuff,” we squeezed in the good parts. Time with family and friends, cheering on the grandkids at their Saturday soccer game, and Thanksgiving surrounded by loved ones. Good times.

As for the campground, let’s just say something shifted on the management side. You can feel the difference in the vibe, and the place is noticeably empty. Not sure what’s going on, but it wasn’t quite the same as years past.

All in all, a cool start and warm reunions. And now we’re setting out on our epic half-hour journey.

Our weeks at Harbor Lakes have been busy. More Doctor appointments, MRIs, reconnecting with friends, and even a Christmas party to lift the holiday spirit. The most meaningful moment of all: Charlene was baptized. It was a beautiful, emotional step for her, made even more significant because it fell just days after a difficult anniversary. Mitchell’s passing on December 17. His memory is always with us, and moments like this remind us how deeply he continues to shape our journey.

On the practical side, it was housekeeping season again. As always in December, that meant sorting through health-insurance options and doing far more research than anyone really wants. But it’s done for another year.

And with the new year around the corner, we’re also refreshing our Facebook content. We’ve put together a new posting concept, so you can look forward to something special every Monday and Wednesday from now on.