Me Gone RVing Adventures: Four Hours of Paint and One Very Sore Arm

 RV remodeling always starts with the vision… and then quickly turns into hours of paint, sore arms, and a lot of patience.

The latest chapter of Me Gone RVing Adventures is well underway, and right now the project is deep in the painting stage of the RV remodel.

Tackling the Main Living Area

Today was all about the main room of the RV. I spent about four hours painting, and by the time I finished the first half, my arm was definitely reminding me that remodeling is a workout all on its own.

Painting an RV interior can be surprisingly time-consuming. The tight spaces, cabinets, trim, and odd corners make it very different from painting a regular house wall. But even with the sore arm, seeing the fresh paint completely change the feel of the space makes it worth it.

The good news is that the main living area is now halfway finished. Once I wrap up this blog post, it’s time to head right back out and finish the job.

Next Stop: The Bedroom

If all goes according to plan, once the living area paint is complete, I’ll finally get to move on to the bedroom makeover.

And honestly… I’m ready.

The painting stage is important, but it’s not exactly the most exciting part of remodeling. The fun part comes after the base work is finished.

That means I’ll finally get to start:

• Adding the accent paint colors
• Installing the wallpaper
• Bringing out the decor and design pieces I’ve been saving

I have so many pretty things still sitting in boxes, and I’m itching to get to the part where the RV really starts to come to life.

The Reality of an RV Remodel

A lot of people assume RV remodels are quick weekend projects, but the truth is they take time, planning, and a fair amount of elbow grease.

For a 30-foot fifth wheel, the cost of a basic cosmetic remodel can vary quite a bit depending on materials and how much work you do yourself.

Typical costs look something like this:

• Basic cosmetic refresh: $3,000 – $5,000
• Moderate DIY remodel: $5,000 – $15,000
• Full renovation or gut remodel: $20,000 – $30,000+

Most RV owners save a lot of money by doing the work themselves, especially projects like painting, flooring, cabinet updates, and decor.

For example, a simple paint refresh alone can cost $800–$1,500 depending on materials and how much surface area you’re covering.

One Step Closer to the Vision

Remodeling an RV is definitely a process. Some days feel like real progress, and other days feel like you’ve just moved paint from one wall to another.

But every brush stroke gets this RV one step closer to the vision.

Soon the boxes will finally open, the wallpaper will go up, and the fun decorating stage will begin.

For now though…

It’s back to painting.

My arm may not be thrilled about it, but this RV makeover is officially underway.

The Butch Cassidy Museum in Montpelier, Idaho: A Small Town Treasure with a Wild West Story

 Small towns often hide the most interesting stories, and Montpelier, Idaho is no exception. Tucked into this quiet southeastern Idaho town is a little museum with a big connection to the Wild West — the Butch Cassidy Museum.

But if you’re planning a visit, be prepared for a bit of an adventure… even before you walk through the door.

The Museum That Keeps You Guessing

For us, visiting the museum turned into a three-year mission. Every time we tried to stop by, it seemed closed. When it said it might be open… it wasn’t. Operating hours weren’t posted clearly on the building or online, so visiting often felt like a guessing game.

Ironically, the year we finally made it inside happened when I was working at the KOA campground in Montpelier. On one of my days off, we decided to try again — and this time we got lucky. The door was open.

Sometimes travel is just about being in the right place at the right moment.

Museum… or Store?

Once inside, we quickly realized something interesting about the place.

Yes, it’s a museum — but it’s also very much a store. Nearly everything inside seemed to be for sale, especially the famous Montpelier bricks. The displays were charming and the artifacts interesting, but you definitely get the feeling that you’re walking through a shop that happens to have history sprinkled throughout.

So here’s a tip:
Bring cash.

Because odds are, you won’t walk out without buying something.

A Caretaker Who Brings History to Life

What really made the visit memorable was the caretaker. He was enthusiastic, friendly, and clearly loved telling the story of the building and its past.

Through his storytelling, the history felt less like something written in books and more like something that actually happened right where we were standing. Hearing stories from the Old West always leaves you wondering about the parts of history we’ll never fully know — especially from a time when technology and record-keeping were limited.

Those gaps in the story somehow make it even more fascinating.

Who Was Butch Cassidy?

Many people know the name, but not the full story.

Butch Cassidy, born Robert LeRoy Parker in 1866, was one of the most famous outlaws of the American Old West.

A few quick facts:

• Born: Beaver, Utah Territory
• Parents: Mormon pioneers
• Nickname Origin: He once worked as a butcher, which likely inspired the name “Butch.”
• Cassidy: Taken from his mentor, cattle rustler Mike Cassidy.

Despite being an outlaw, Cassidy earned a reputation as a “gentleman bandit.” Unlike many criminals of the time, he was known for avoiding violence and rarely killing anyone, which oddly made him somewhat admired by everyday people.

The Montpelier Bank Robbery

The museum building itself has a direct connection to Cassidy’s story.

On August 13, 1896, shortly after being released from prison, Butch Cassidy and several partners robbed the Bank of Montpelier, escaping with over $7,000 — a huge amount of money at the time.

Today, that same building is preserved as the Butch Cassidy Museum.

It holds a unique distinction:
It’s the only standing bank that Butch Cassidy is known to have robbed.

The Wild Bunch

After the Montpelier robbery, Cassidy formed his infamous outlaw gang known as The Wild Bunch.

Members included:

• The Sundance Kid (Harry Longabaugh)
• Elzy Lay

Together they carried out a string of train and bank robberies across Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado, becoming legends of the American frontier.

A Museum with an Uncertain Future

Unfortunately, rumors around town say the museum may now be closed and up for sale.

That’s a real shame.

Small attractions like this can be incredibly important to towns like Montpelier. During the winter months especially, tourism slows down and communities rely on unique destinations to bring visitors through.

Places like this help keep local history alive — and give travelers a reason to stop and explore.

One More Hidden Gem in Town

If you do find yourself in Montpelier, there’s another place worth visiting: the local library.

It may sound like an unusual travel recommendation, but the library puts a lot of thought into its themes and displays, making it a surprisingly fun stop while exploring the town.

Sometimes the best parts of travel aren’t the big attractions — they’re the unexpected little discoveries along the way.

BUTCH CASSIDY RICH PEOPLE ART

Final Thoughts

The Butch Cassidy Museum might be small, quirky, and a little unpredictable with its hours, but that’s part of its charm.

If you manage to catch it open, you’ll step into a piece of Wild West history — one that still sparks curiosity more than a century later.

And who knows… you might walk out with a brick and a story. Me Gone RVing Adventures caved and got a shot glass - lol

Hard Work, Big Dreams, and the Friendships That Make RV Life Special

 Sometimes life moves fast, and sometimes it asks a lot from you. Right now, Mark and I have about 27 months of extremely hard work ahead of us. We can’t go into too many details just yet, but we can say this — it’s all good things for our future, and we’re grateful for the opportunities ahead.

At the same time, we’re pulling double duty. Along with everything else on our plate, we’re deep into the remodel of our RV so we can be 100% ready for boondocking when our time at workamping comes to an end.

Anyone who lives the RV lifestyle understands this reality:
No job is guaranteed in the RV world. You learn quickly to work hard, stay prepared, and treat every day like it could be your last one in that position. For us, that mindset keeps us motivated and focused. We’re hopeful we’ll be here for a while, but we also believe in preparing for whatever comes next.

Making Time for What Matters

Even with all the hard work and long days, we’ve made something a priority: making time to connect with people and build genuine friendships.

This past winter was no different. We had Lori and Sean!!

We had the chance to spend time with some incredible people, learning a new game together and enjoying evenings filled with laughter, storytelling, and a little friendly competition.

Those nights turned into so much more than just playing a game.

We swapped travel stories, shared new food recipes, and even added new bucket list destinations thanks to their suggestions. Of course, we also created a handful of inside jokes that will probably stick with us for years.

Those are the moments that truly make the RV lifestyle so special.

The Story Behind the Koozies

One of the fun traditions we’ve started is handing out our custom koozies.

They were made for one simple purpose:
To celebrate meeting people and creating connections on the road.

Every time we share one with someone, it’s our small way of saying:

“We’re glad our paths crossed.”

And hopefully, somewhere down the road, our paths cross again.

If not, that’s okay too. The memories we made together will continue traveling with them on their adventures, just like they travel with us.

Friends Who Inspire Us

This winter we had the pleasure of spending time with Lori and Sean, two absolutely amazing people.

They are incredibly active and adventurous. Whether it’s snowboarding in the mountains or chasing the wind with kitesurfing (or kiteboarding — we’re still not sure which term is right!), they live life with energy and enthusiasm.

We admire that spirit so much.

Recently, they sent us photos of our koozies showing up on their travels in Kansas and Arkansas.

Honestly, that made our day.

Seeing those little pieces of our shared memories popping up across the country is pretty special.

Lori in the state of Kansas

Sean in the state of Arkansas 

Making their way from Utah State to their summer location. We are so lucky that we get to follow their summer adventures. I hope you get to meet these 2. They have made our lives better!! If you wish to take on the same summer sport they do Sean And Lori's Summer Sport link where safety is first!! 

Watching the Koozies Travel

Now we’re hoping to see even more of our koozies showing up in photos across the country — maybe even around the world someday.

You never know where RV friendships will take you.

And just between us…

We have plenty more koozies ready to hand out.

So if you see us out on the road, don’t be shy.

We just might have one waiting for you.

Because at the end of the day, RV life isn’t just about the places you visit.

It’s about the people you meet along the way.

The Gift of Book Club: A Community I Treasure in Willard, Utah

 Some things in life quietly become the highlight of your month. For me, that’s book club in Willard, Utah. It’s one of those gatherings I truly live for and look forward to every single month.

There’s something special about sitting around a table with a group of women who love books, conversation, and genuine connection. These women are amazing. From the beginning, they never treated me like an outsider. Instead, they welcomed me in with open arms and open hearts. They are the kind of people who want the best for everyone around them, and that kind of community is something you don’t take for granted.

A Pause for the Summer

As much as I love book club, I’ll admit I’ll be pouting a little this summer because we won’t be meeting in June, July, August, or September. That’s a long stretch without our thoughtful conversations and laughter.

But there’s a bright side — I’m hosting our October meeting, and I’m already excited about it.

Mark and I won’t be taking a vacation this year because we’re focusing our finances on our RV remodeling project. With that project, plus both of our birthdays and our RVing anniversary all happening around the same time, hosting book club feels like the perfect way to celebrate. Instead of traveling somewhere far away, I get to celebrate with something equally meaningful: good books and wonderful people.

March’s Book: The Correspondent

At our March meeting, we discussed The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, and it turned out to be the kind of book that sparks deep conversation.

The novel is written in an epistolary format, meaning the story unfolds through letters and emails. The main character, Sybil Van Antwerp, is a 73-year-old retired lawyer who writes letters to friends, family members, neighbors, and even authors she admires.

Through these letters, we slowly piece together her life — her relationships, her regrets, her grief, and her search for understanding as she navigates the later years of life.

What makes the book unique is how much of the story lies between the lines. Some letters are answered, some aren’t, and some are never sent at all. The reader learns about Sybil’s relationships simply by observing the tone of the correspondence.

This is the type of book you might want to read more than once.

The characters are layered and complex, and every letter reveals a little more about who they are and how they relate to each other. It’s also the type of book where taking notes helps you keep track of the relationships and emotions woven throughout the story.

That’s actually something I always do when I read.

I tend to write notes in the margins of my books because I know there’s a good chance I’ll read them again later. When I return to a book, those little notes bring me right back to what I was thinking and feeling the first time through.

GET YOUR COPY HERE....

Why Book Clubs Matter

Book clubs are about so much more than finishing a book.

They’re about community.

When you read a book alone, you experience it through your own perspective. But when you sit down with a group of people and talk about it, you suddenly see the story through many different viewpoints.

Someone else might notice something you missed entirely.

Another person might connect with a character in a way you never considered.

Those conversations bring books to life in a way that reading alone simply can’t.

Book clubs also create something we all need more of — intentional connection. In a world where so much communication happens through quick texts or social media posts, sitting down together to talk about ideas, stories, and life feels refreshingly meaningful.

Inspired to Write Again

One of the unexpected things that came out of reading The Correspondent was the way it inspired me personally.

Since the entire book revolves around letters, it reminded me of something we don’t do enough of anymore: writing to people we care about.

After finishing the book, I found myself doing something I hadn’t done in a long time.

I picked up a pen and paper.

I started writing letters to people in my life — people I wanted to reconnect with or simply remind them how important they are to me.

There’s something powerful about a handwritten letter. It takes time, thought, and intention. It says, “You matter enough for me to slow down and write this.” BABY BROTHER watch for the mail!

In a way, that’s exactly what book club feels like too.

It’s a group of people taking time out of their busy lives to slow down, talk, listen, and share.

Looking Ahead

Even though I’ll miss our monthly gatherings this summer, I know October will be here before I know it. And when it does, I’ll be ready to open my home, pour some coffee, and talk about another book with this wonderful group of women.

Sometimes community finds you in unexpected ways.

For me, it came through a little book club in Willard, Utah.

And I wouldn’t trade it for anything. 📚✨

And YES, YES, YES, Me Gone RVing Adventures has TONS of books in our 5th wheel. It's an investment I welcome dearly.

Painting Has Begun: Primer, a Pink Paint Gun, and One Exhausting Day in the RV

 Every RV renovation has that moment when the real transformation finally begins. For us, that moment came when we opened the first gallon of primer and officially started painting the inside of our RV. After all the planning, organizing, and imagining how everything would look, it felt exciting to finally start bringing the space back to life.

Painting is one of the biggest changes you can make in an RV. Not only does it refresh the look of the interior, but it can also help eliminate that unmistakable “old RV smell” that tends to linger in older campers. Fresh paint seals surfaces, brightens dark spaces, and gives everything a clean start. That’s exactly what we were hoping to accomplish.

And while the day was productive, it was also full of laughter, a little bit of chaos, and one moment where I almost completely wiped out from exhaustion.

Starting With Primer

Of course, before any color paint goes on the walls, primer comes first. Primer is an important step, especially in an RV where many of the surfaces are laminate, wallpaper, or thin paneling that doesn’t always allow paint to stick well on its own.

Using primer helps the paint adhere better, creates a smooth surface, and seals in old odors that might be trapped in the walls. Since part of our goal is to get rid of that older RV smell, priming the walls properly was a must.

We decided to start with the office area first. The plan was simple: get the office finished so we could move forward with setting up our workspace again.

But as soon as we started painting, we realized just how much primer the walls would absorb. By the time we finished covering the room, we had used an entire gallon of primer.

One gallon for just the office.

That definitely told us we were going to need more supplies before tackling the rest of the RV. So we ended up picking up two more cans to use later this week when we move on to the next spaces.

Those rooms will include the living room, bedroom, and bathroom.

There’s still a lot of painting ahead, but getting the first room done felt like a huge step forward.

Why We Started With the Office

The office was the first priority because it plays a big role in our daily work. It’s where we run our heat presses, and getting that area back up and running is important for us.

Trying to work while renovating can feel chaotic, so having one finished, functional space will make everything easier. Once the paint is fully dry and everything is cleaned up, we’ll be able to start setting up the equipment again and getting back to work.

But the office isn’t just going to be a workspace.

It’s also going to be the future home of our podcast setup.

Preparing for the Podcast

One of the projects that will follow the painting is installing an acoustic wall in the office. This will help prepare the room for recording our podcast, which we’re planning to launch this October.

RVs can sometimes echo because of the small space and hard surfaces inside. Adding acoustic panels helps reduce echo and improve sound quality, which is really important when recording audio.

Now that the walls are freshly painted, we’ll be able to move forward with installing the acoustic panels and preparing the room for recording.

It’s exciting to think that the same room we just spent hours painting will soon become the place where we sit down to record and share our stories.

The Pink Paint Gun

Now let’s talk about the fun part of the project: the pink paint gun.

When we went to pick up painting supplies, we noticed they had several colors available for the paint guns. Most people probably wouldn’t think much about it and would just grab whatever was on the shelf.

But when I saw the pink one, I knew immediately that was the one I wanted.

After all, it’s a girl doing the painting, so why not add a little flair to the job?

The best part was that it didn’t cost anything extra. It was simply another color option they offered, along with a few others.

So naturally, the pink paint gun came home with us.

It definitely made the painting process a little more entertaining.

Where I purchased my
PINK PAINT GUN

Mark and Painting Don’t Mix

Now while I was enjoying my pink paint gun, Mark had a very different opinion about the entire painting situation.

Mark hates painting.

And I mean he really hates painting.

Some people find painting relaxing or satisfying, but for Mark it’s one of those tasks he would happily avoid forever if he could.

So while I was busy spraying primer and getting things done, he was mostly just glad that he wasn’t the one holding the paint gun.

The pink paint gun definitely added some humor to the situation, and we both got a good laugh out of it.

Safety First

Painting inside an RV isn’t quite the same as painting a large house with open windows and lots of airflow. Because the space is smaller, it’s important to take extra precautions when it comes to safety.

That’s why I wore a full painting suit along with a proper respirator mask.

A respirator mask helps protect your lungs from paint sprays, fumes, and chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled. The painting suit also helps prevent paint from getting on your clothes or skin while spraying.

While the safety gear is essential, I have to admit it also looked pretty funny.

Painting Mask is a MUST!!

The Painting Suit Was Hilarious

Once I had the painting suit and respirator mask on, I couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous the whole outfit looked.

It was like something between a hazmat suit and a science lab uniform.

Of course, that meant we had to take some pictures.

The photos turned out pretty hilarious, and they’re definitely going to be some funny memories from this renovation project.

Sometimes you have to find the humor in the process, especially during long workdays.

Painting Bunny??

When Exhaustion Hit

After hours of painting inside a small RV, exhaustion finally caught up with me.

Painting might not seem like the most physically demanding task, but constantly reaching, bending, moving around tight spaces, and concentrating on coverage can really wear you out.

By the time we finished the office, I was completely drained.

At one point, I stood up and suddenly felt like I might lose my balance. I was so exhausted that I almost fell right out of the RV.

Thankfully, our neighbor happened to be outside nearby at that exact moment.

A Neighbor to the Rescue

As I stumbled coming out of the RV, our neighbor immediately noticed and rushed over. They reacted quickly and pretty much caught me before I could fall.

It was one of those moments where you’re incredibly grateful someone happened to be nearby.

After taking a break, sitting down, and drinking some water, I started feeling much better. But it definitely reminded me that renovation days can push your limits, and sometimes you need to slow down and rest. 

Me Gone RVing Adventures is coming alone....

The Office Is Finished

Despite the exhaustion, the day ended on a very positive note.

The office was officially primed and painted.

Even just the primer made the room feel brighter and cleaner, and it already felt like the RV was starting to come back to life.

With the office done, the next step will be installing the acoustic wall panels so we can start preparing for our podcast launch in October.

After that, we’ll continue painting the rest of the RV, including the living room, bedroom, and bathroom.

There’s still a lot of work ahead, but finishing the first room was a big milestone.

And honestly, between the pink paint gun, the hilarious painting suit, and nearly falling over from exhaustion, it’s a day we definitely won’t forget anytime soon.

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. 

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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.

Want some Book Suggestion?
Click HERE

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