New Stove, New Systems, and Moving Closer to Full-Time RV Living

 If you’ve been following along on our journey, you know that remodeling a 5th wheel is equal parts exciting, exhausting, and full of unexpected surprises. Every project we complete gets us one step closer to our goal of full-time RV living, and while progress may feel slow at times, it’s definitely happening.

Today, I wanted to share one of our most recent (and honestly, one of the most satisfying) updates: our stove situation and propane system overhaul.

The Reality of Buying Used

Let’s rewind a bit.

A couple of blog posts ago, we mentioned that we discovered broken propane lines in our 5th wheel. According to the previous owners, the damage was caused by a tire blowout. Whether that’s exactly how it happened or not, the reality is this:

When you buy used, you inherit someone else’s history.

And sometimes… that history comes with hidden issues.

At first, it felt overwhelming. Propane lines are not something you want to mess around with—they’re critical for safety and functionality. But we quickly shifted our mindset.

Instead of seeing it as a setback, we chose to see it as part of the process.

Because truthfully? This is what RV life is about.

Fixing.
Learning.
Adapting.
Making it your own.

Enter: The Right Help at the Right Time

We were incredibly fortunate to find someone who not only knew what they were doing but genuinely cared about doing the job right.

Justin Moline, owner of Just In Time Mobile RV here in Willard, Utah, stepped in and completely took care of the propane issues. And when I say took care of it, I mean he went above and beyond.

He didn’t just patch things up. He fixed the propane lines properly, making sure everything was safe, secure, and up to standard. That kind of peace of mind is priceless, especially when you’re planning to live in your RV full-time.

Out with the Old Stove…

While Justin was working on the propane system, we decided it was the perfect time to make a change we had already been thinking about: replacing the stove.

The original stove in the 5th wheel had seen better days. It worked… but it didn’t fit our vision for how we plan to live and cook in this space.

So we made a bold decision.

We removed it completely.

…And In with a New Setup

Instead of replacing it with another traditional RV stove/oven combo, we chose to install a new stovetop only, and skip the oven altogether.

Now, I know that might sound surprising to some people.

“No oven? How will you bake?”

Here’s the honest answer: we probably won’t.

Or at least, not enough to justify the space it takes up.

We love our stove top - EASY to get too!! 

Why We Ditched the Oven

This decision came down to one simple thing:

How often would we realistically use it?

When we really thought about it, the answer was: not much.

And in a small space like a 5th wheel, every inch matters.

So instead of dedicating valuable space to something we’d rarely use, we chose something far more practical for our lifestyle.

Here is the OLD and it's GONE

Hello, Storage!

In place of the oven, we now have a pan drawer, and let me tell you, this is a game-changer.

Storage is everything in RV living.

Having a dedicated place for pans and cooking tools makes the kitchen feel more functional, more organized, and honestly… more like home.

It’s one of those small changes that makes a big difference in day-to-day life.

Safety First: A Must-Have Upgrade

While working on the propane system, Justin also installed a brand-new propane alarm.

And this is something I want to pause on for a moment because it’s so important.

Our 5th wheel didn’t have a working propane alarm when we got it.

Let me say that again:

It didn’t have one.

That’s a huge safety risk.

If you’re reading this and you own an RV (or are thinking about getting one), please make sure you have a propane alarm installed and that it’s up to date and functioning properly.

It’s not optional. It’s essential.

This upgrade alone gave us a massive sense of relief.

If you need to upgrade or get one, here is where
we got ours and it was highly recommended

Gratitude Where It’s Due

We truly cannot thank Justin enough for the work he did.

Finding someone you trust, especially when it comes to mechanical and safety-related systems, is everything in the RV world.

His attention to detail, professionalism, and willingness to go the extra mile made this part of the remodel so much smoother than it could have been.

If you’re in the Willard, Utah area and need RV work done, having someone reliable makes all the difference.

The Remodel: Slow but Steady

Now, let’s talk about the bigger picture.

The remodel is moving… just not as fast as I’d like. 😅

If you’ve ever taken on a project like this, you know the feeling.

You start with so much excitement and momentum, and then reality sets in:

• There are more steps than you expected
• Each project depends on another
• Time feels limited (especially on weekdays)

Right now, progress feels a little slow, but I keep reminding myself:

Slow progress is still progress.

The Next Big Step

One thing that will make a huge difference is when we finally get the 5th wheel moved next to us.

Once it’s right there, everything becomes easier:

• More time to work on it
• Easier access to tools and supplies
• More flexibility with our schedule

I truly believe that once it’s in place, things are going to speed up significantly.

And honestly… I am so ready for that.

The Countdown Is On

Our goal is to be fully moved into the 5th wheel by May 1st.

That date is always in the back of my mind.

It’s exciting, but also a little stressful.

There’s still a lot to do:

• Painting
• Finalizing interior touches
• Organizing storage
• Setting up functional living spaces

But having a deadline keeps us focused and motivated.

Prairie Cooking in the RV

Another fun (and slightly overwhelming) piece of this puzzle is planning out filming for Prairie Cooking in the RV.

This part is exciting because it blends creativity with functionality, but it also requires some thought.

I’m currently trying to decide:

• Where cameras will be placed
• How to best use the kitchen space for filming
• Lighting and angles in a small environment

The good news?

I still have time to figure it out.

The priority right now is getting the space ready.

Painting Comes First

Before we can really dive into anything else, painting needs to be done.

And if you’ve ever painted an RV… you know it’s no small task.

There are:

• Tight corners
• Odd angles
• Cabinets, walls, and trim to consider

But paint is one of the most transformative parts of any remodel.

It’s what takes a space from “someone else’s RV” to “our home.”

So while it may feel like a big job, it’s also one of the most exciting.

Weekend Motivation

At this point, I find myself constantly thinking:

“Come on, weekend!”

Weekends are when the real progress happens.

Longer stretches of time.
Fewer interruptions.
More momentum.

And right now, I’m more than ready to dive in and keep pushing forward.

Final Thoughts

This journey hasn’t been perfect and honestly, I don’t expect it to be.

There have been surprises, delays, and moments of frustration.

But there have also been wins.

Moments of excitement.
Progress we’re proud of.
A growing sense that this dream is becoming real.

Every repair, every upgrade, every decision brings us closer to full-time RV living.

And while the road to get there might be a little messy…

It’s ours. Our ME GONE RVING ADVENTURES

RV Couple Enjoyed A Fun and Nearly Free Night Out with The Saltaires

 Sometimes the best adventures are the simplest ones. Earlier this week, I surprised my husband with a night out to see the The Saltaires Chorus, an acclaimed 50-member men’s a cappella chorus based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Founded in 1989, the group specializes in the classic four-part barbershop harmony style and has even been officially designated as “Cultural Ambassadors of the State of Utah.”

My husband was a little worried when I said we were going out. We’re currently in the middle of an RV remodel, and like many remodeling projects, the budget is tight. What he didn’t know was that the event was actually free. The only thing we spent money on was a soda to share and a bag of popcorn, which made the evening feel like an even bigger win.

Mark was off getting us a
soda and popcorn

The performance was held at the historic Peery's Egyptian Theater, an old building filled with character and history. Just walking into the theater felt like stepping back in time. I’ll have to save the story about the theater itself for another blog post because it deserves its own spotlight.

The show lasted about an hour and a half, but honestly it flew by. The theater was about 75% full, and the energy in the room made the performance even more enjoyable. The harmonies were incredible, and every song was polished and entertaining. Our favorite performers were the men wearing the brown outfits—their stage presence and sound really stood out to us.

The first man has an 
AMAZING voice

One thing this experience reminded us is how important it is to make time for small adventures, even when life feels busy or budgets feel tight. This summer we’ve made a commitment to think outside the box and find fun things to do that are free or nearly free. Once we return to full-time RV travel, that mindset will be essential. When you’re traveling long-term, finding affordable entertainment is part of the adventure itself. 

We "ME GONE RVING ADVENTURES have a storefront you may find fun if you're an RV Full-Timer CLICK HERE

The truth is, there are amazing experiences happening all around us—community concerts, cultural events, local performances, and historic venues—many of them free. You just have to look for them and be willing to try something new.

Those dresses were
GORGEOUS 

We had a great time, shared some laughs, enjoyed great music, and made a memory together. Nights like this prove that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a meaningful experience.

And now we’re already looking forward to the next adventure.

RVShare Stress-Free Summer Adventures with Sarah’s RV Motorhome

 Looking for an easy and relaxing way to enjoy summer travel? Renting an RV Motorhome might be the perfect solution. Instead of worrying about hotel bookings, packing and unpacking, or sticking to rigid travel plans, an RV gives you the freedom to enjoy the journey while having all the comforts of home right with you.

Our Sarah’s RV Motorhome, available on RVShare, was inspired by a special camper—our beautiful black dog named Sarah. She absolutely loved camping trips. It never took long before she would happily hop into the motorhome, ready to head out for another weekend adventure. Her excitement for travel and the outdoors inspired us to share that same experience with others.

Renting an RV this summer can make travel easier for families, couples, and groups of friends. It’s perfect for weekend escapes, week-long vacations, or even month-long stays. Many people also rent RVs for family reunions, festivals, national park trips, or simply as extra guest space when family visits during the summer. Instead of squeezing everyone into the house, the RV becomes a comfortable and private retreat just steps away.

One of the biggest advantages of renting with us is convenience. We deliver the RV directly to your campsite, event location, or destination and set everything up for you. That means you don’t have to worry about driving a large vehicle, hooking up utilities, or figuring out campground logistics. When you arrive, the RV is already prepared so you can step inside and immediately start enjoying your trip.

And when the fun is over? We take care of the rest. We’ll return to pick up the RV and bring it back, saving you time and eliminating the stress of cleanup, driving, and returning a rental. It truly is one of the easiest ways to experience RV camping.

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Booking is simple through RVShare. Just search for Sarah’s RV Motorhome, choose your dates, and reserve your stay. Within minutes you can have your summer adventure planned.

This summer, skip the stress and focus on making memories. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a long vacation, or hosting guests, Sarah’s RV Motorhome is ready to help you enjoy the road ahead.

Me Gone RVing Adventures love Airbnb's and RVShare is just what it is for RVing fans!!

A Hidden RV Danger We Almost Missed: Check the Underbelly Before You Buy

 Buying a used RV can feel exciting and overwhelming all at once. Most people, including us, focus on the obvious things when inspecting a potential RV purchase: water leaks, roof condition, appliances, and signs of mold. Those are important—but there is something else that many buyers overlook that could literally save your life.

The underbelly of the RV.

Recently, we had an RV specialist come out to do a walkthrough with us as we continue remodeling our fifth wheel for our Me Gone RVing Adventure. While we were going through the normal checklist, I mentioned that I had been smelling propane inside the RV from time to time.

Thankfully, I insisted on having a third set of experienced eyes look at everything.

When the specialist crawled under the RV, he immediately spotted something alarming: a previous tire blowout had damaged the propane line leading into the RV. This was hidden damage we never would have noticed during a typical inspection.

That moment made my stomach drop.

Had that propane line failed completely, the situation could have turned deadly. Propane leaks are nothing to take lightly. One spark could lead to fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide exposure.

Yes, the repair will cost us more money. We are looking at about $1,000 in immediate fixes, but honestly, I am incredibly grateful we caught it now.

Safety Check After the Discovery

Once the propane issue was discovered, Justin immediately began checking all of our safety equipment inside the RV. What we found next was just as concerning.

Our safety setup was not where it needed to be.

We discovered:

• Only one fire extinguisher was present when we should have three.

• No carbon monoxide alarm installed at all. And so we ordered this immediately https://amzn.to/4aWtbyP 

• 

  Damage done by a
  TIRE BLOWOUT

  
  
  

• Several extinguishers needed replacement.

To correct this, we are installing:

• A fire extinguisher at the main entrance

• A fire extinguisher in my office, where I run my Traveling Town Crier heat press equipment

• A fire extinguisher in the outside storage compartment

• A new high-quality carbon monoxide detector that I immediately ordered

These are not optional safety items. They are essentials for anyone living or traveling in an RV.

Why RV Inspections Are So Important

This experience reinforced something I want every RV buyer to understand:

Always have a professional inspection done before and after purchasing a used RV.

Many hidden issues simply cannot be seen during a casual walkthrough. Damage from past accidents, tire blowouts, propane line problems, frame damage, electrical issues, or poorly done repairs often exist underneath or behind panels.

A qualified RV technician can check:

• Propane systems

• Electrical wiring

• Structural integrity

• Water damage

• Roof condition

• Suspension and underbelly damage

• Safety equipment

Even if the RV looks perfect on the surface, hidden problems can exist. Spending money on an inspection is far cheaper than dealing with catastrophic repairs—or worse, a safety emergency—later.

Our Remodel Approach: Pay As You Go

For us, this RV remodel is being done slowly and responsibly. We are taking a pay-as-you-go approach rather than draining our savings.

Why?

Because life happens. Jobs change. Medical emergencies happen. Unexpected expenses appear. If we poured all of our savings into this remodel at once and something went wrong, we could end up in a difficult situation.

So each paycheck, we invest what we can into making our fifth wheel stronger, safer, and more prepared for the boondocking life we dream about.

Growing Through the Process

Surprisingly, when we discovered the damage, I didn’t cry.

Instead, I felt grateful.

Grateful that we found the problem before something terrible happened. Grateful that we had someone knowledgeable helping us look deeper. Grateful that we are learning as we go.

This journey isn’t just about getting the RV ready for travel again. It’s about growing through the experience and doing things the right way.

Safety is our number one priority, and we are not taking shortcuts.

If you are shopping for a used RV, take this advice seriously:

Look under everything. Ask questions. Get inspections. Protect your future travels—and your life.

Goodbye RV Rugs: Cleaner Floors, Lighter Loads, and Budget-Friendly Choices

 If there’s one thing I won’t miss in this RV remodel, it’s the rugs. RV rugs are, in my opinion, the nastiest things ever. They hold smells, trap stains, and carry years of who-knows-what deep in the fibers. No matter how much you vacuum, they never truly feel clean. We decided it was time for them to go.

Where we got our
RV traveling
Ladder from

Mark volunteered to pull the carpet out himself so we could save that labor cost and put the extra money toward other remodel needs. Watching him was equal parts impressive and comical — he made it look easy, even if I know it wasn’t. When the carpet finally came up in the bunk room (soon to become the Traveling Town Crier office), we were shocked at what we found underneath: linoleum. And not just any linoleum — linoleum in great shape. Structurally solid. Visually… not so much.

Shocked by what we are
seeing under the rug

We debated our options. Do we rip it out? Do we install new flooring on top? That was the direction we were heading — until I had another idea. I’m going to paint it.

Painting the existing linoleum saves money and avoids adding extra weight to the RV. Weight matters when you’re traveling, especially if you plan to haul along a personal library like I do. It also allows us to refresh the space without the cost of new materials. I honestly didn’t realize you could paint linoleum, but after researching sanding versus liquid deglossing, I’m choosing the liquid option. It will speed up the process and save my back from unnecessary strain.

This is what we will 
be used to clean the floors 
before painting the floors.

Beyond budget and design, removing carpet is a health choice. Rugs in small spaces trap dust, allergens, pet dander, and moisture — all of which can contribute to respiratory irritation and musty odors. In an RV, where airflow is limited, that buildup can affect air quality quickly. Hard surfaces are easier to clean and sanitize, helping create a healthier environment overall.

I’ll be tackling this one room at a time to keep the process manageable and enjoyable. I work three jobs, and every paycheck gets divided into bills, savings, and remodel funds. The remodel portion is small, but that’s okay. Baby steps still move you forward. This journey isn’t about rushing — it’s about building something better, thoughtfully and within our means. Me Gone RVing Adventures is living up to it's name!!

Growing Greens on the Go: How We’re Starting a Compact RV Garden (With 3 Cats!)

 There's something wildly satisfying about watching tiny seedlings turn into dinner when you live on the road. Right now in the RV we're in that eager 8–10 week countdown until it's safe to move plants outside — and I can't wait. Growing vegetables in a rig takes a little creativity (and patience), especially when you share the space with three curious cats.

I used a grow-light setup this season — super easy to install. The plug-and-play lights gave the seedlings the right stretch without stealing floor space, which is gold when every square inch matters. I'm experimenting with different pots, compact varieties, and hydroponic options to see what fits our lifestyle and limited footprint. Last year my husband killed most of my plants while I was at another job site, so this year I'm testing more resilient systems.

Amazon has amazing kits you
can get to get your started

For RV families, go for fast-maturing, compact, low-maintenance crops: herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint; leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, and kale; even cherry tomatoes, peppers, and radishes can thrive in containers or hanging planters. Hydroponic systems are especially appealing because they often use less water, take up vertical space, and reduce soil mess — a big plus with indoor pets. I'm comparing wick, NFT, and small aeroponic systems for ease and space.

Tips that have helped us: use saucers and trays to protect surfaces, secure pots so curious paws can't tip them, choose compact cultivars and dwarf varieties, and rotate seedlings under lights for even growth. Keep a small watering schedule and a checklist so plants don’t get forgotten during busy workamping weeks.

This season is about learning what our RV prefers. Whether it’s a countertop herb garden or a compact hydroponic tower, growing food on the road is doable. If you have hydroponic setups or cat-proofing hacks that worked for you, drop them below — I’m all ears (and so are the cats). Enjoy!!

Me Gone RVing Adventures is having a ball this SPRING. Seeds https://amzn.to/4rSVWlW