A Perfect RV Date Night: Chris Petty Quintet at Peery's Egyptian Theater

 One of the greatest blessings of our workamping lifestyle is discovering hidden gems in the communities we temporarily call home. On May 27th, Mark and I enjoyed one of those special experiences when we attended a free performance by the Chris Petty Quintet at the historic Peery's Egyptian Theater in Ogden, Utah.

The evening was a tribute to jazz legends Stan Getz and Gary Burton, and while we arrived expecting great music, we left having learned something new and with an even greater appreciation for the arts.

Discovering the Vibraphone

One of the highlights of the evening was learning about an instrument neither of us had ever experienced in a live performance before—the vibraphone.

To be completely honest, before that night I had never even heard the term "vibraphonist." Watching the musician perform was fascinating. The instrument produced a rich, smooth sound that added an entirely different dimension to the music. It was one of those moments that reminded me why it's important to try new experiences and step outside of your comfort zone.

That's one of the beautiful things about community events—you never know what you'll discover.

A Voice We Could Have Listened to All Night

As impressive as the musicians were, the female vocalist absolutely stole the show for us.

Her voice was warm, effortless, and captivating. Both Mark and I agreed afterward that we could have listened to her sing for hours. She brought so much emotion and personality to every song that it felt like each performance was telling a story.

There are some performers who simply have that special gift of making time stand still for a little while, and she certainly had that gift.

Why Free Community Events Matter to RV Travelers

As full-time RVers and workampers, we have learned to appreciate the value of community-sponsored events more than ever before.

While many people assume RV travelers are constantly on vacation, the reality is that many of us work while traveling. Whether it's managing campgrounds, remote work, seasonal employment, or running our own businesses, we still have budgets to manage and responsibilities to fulfill.

Free events like those offered by Peery's Egyptian Theater provide opportunities that are invaluable to RV travelers.

They Help Stretch the Travel Budget

Entertainment costs can add up quickly when you're on the road. Free concerts, festivals, lectures, and community performances allow travelers to enjoy memorable experiences without straining their budget.

They Create Date Nights Without Breaking the Bank

Mark and I always look for affordable ways to spend quality time together. Community events give couples an opportunity to enjoy a night out while still being financially responsible.

They Help Travelers Connect With Local Culture

One of the best parts of RV living is experiencing different communities. Free events introduce travelers to local artists, musicians, traditions, and history that they might otherwise miss.

They Provide a Mental Reset

Workamping can be rewarding, but it can also be demanding. Taking a few hours to enjoy live music, laugh together, and simply be present helps recharge our batteries and reminds us why we chose this lifestyle in the first place.

They Build Community

Many RVers spend time far from family and longtime friends. Community events create opportunities to meet people, feel connected, and become part of the local community, even if only temporarily.

Giving Back When We Can

Although the event was free, we always make it a point to support venues whenever possible. Whether it's purchasing snacks, drinks, or other goodies, we believe in giving back to organizations that make these experiences available to the public.

Communities thrive when people support the places that enrich them.

Looking Ahead

One thing this evening reminded us is how important it is to seek out local events wherever we travel. When we eventually hit the road full-time again, we'll continue searching for theaters, community centers, libraries, parks, and local venues that offer affordable entertainment and cultural experiences.

Sometimes the best memories aren't the expensive attractions or tourist hotspots. Sometimes they're found sitting beside your spouse in a historic theater, listening to incredible music, learning something new, and simply enjoying a night together.

The Chris Petty Quintet gave us one of those nights.

It was a wonderful date night, a much-needed break from workamping responsibilities, and a reminder that some of life's greatest experiences come from saying yes to something you know very little about.

And thanks to Peery's Egyptian Theater, it became a memory we'll be talking about for years to come.

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.

Life as Workampers: Adventures, Milestones, and the Road Ahead

If you sleep in an RV at night and conduct any activity in exchange for something of value, congratulations—you’re officially a Workamper! And that’s exactly what we are. For the past couple of years, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to manage Willard Peak Campground, a role we stepped into on October 1, 2022. Believe it or not, our second work anniversary is just around the corner, and we feel truly blessed for the experiences and memories this lifestyle has brought us.

Being workampers is not just a job—it’s a lifestyle. It’s a unique balance of responsibility and freedom. While our days are filled with ensuring the campground runs smoothly, maintaining the grounds, and creating a welcoming experience for guests, our days off are gold. These are the times we get to explore, adventure, and soak in the world beyond our campground office.

Hitting the Road on Our Days Off

On our free days, we love to pack the cooler with finger foods and cold drinks, fill the gas tank, and set out on road trips for hours on end. The beauty of RVing is the flexibility to choose adventure wherever we want, and exploring new areas has become a favorite pastime for us. From scenic byways to hidden gems near Hyrum, Utah, our truck has carried us to places that have added unforgettable experiences to our lives.

Of course, full-time RV life comes with its practical realities. For instance, our truck needs four new tires, but upgrading them has to wait until November. It’s a perfect example of how life on the road—or near it—requires planning, patience, and prioritization.

Discovering Local History

Exploring our area has been educational as well as fun. One of our favorite discoveries has been the two historic cabins near the Hyrum Library and Museum. Originally from the Hyrum area, these cabins were relocated in 2010 and are still standing as a testament to local history. Another highlight has been spotting the tallest building in town, formerly the First Security Bank building. The transformation of its signage—from Wells Fargo to Cache Valley Bank—reminds us how communities evolve over time, while history quietly persists around us.

In just two years, we’ve been fortunate to see and experience so much of our local area. We’ve grown attached to the people, places, and traditions, all while living and working in our RV. This kind of immersion is one of the true benefits of workamping—it allows you to experience a place deeply while still moving forward with your lifestyle goals.

Looking Ahead: RV Upgrades and Adventure

We know that in the RVing world, things can change quickly, and preparation is everything. Right now, one of our biggest goals is to upgrade to a better RV. We’re saving aggressively and investing in ourselves because we understand that the right equipment makes the difference in comfort, adventure, and long-term sustainability. Every choice we make now—every dollar saved—is an investment in the freedom and experiences we want to have as full-time RVers.

October: A Month of Milestones

October is shaping up to be an exciting month for Me Gone RVing Adventures, packed with personal and professional milestones:

• October 1 – Started working for Willard Peak Campground

• October 12 – My Birthday

• October 14 – Became managers of Willard Peak Campground

• October 30 – Mark’s Birthday

• October 31 – We hit the road as full-time RVers

It’s not just about the dates; it’s about the journey they represent. From starting our workamping adventure to celebrating birthdays and finally taking the leap into full-time RVing, October symbolizes growth, commitment, and the thrill of living life on our terms.

Balancing Work, Life, and Adventure

Being a workamper is more than just a job—it’s a way of life. It requires dedication, flexibility, and the willingness to embrace both responsibility and freedom. By managing Willard Peak Campground, exploring the local area, and planning for our future RV upgrades, we’ve created a life that balances work, adventure, and preparation for the road ahead.

We’re living proof that full-time RVing is attainable, but it also requires planning, patience, and persistence. From saving for upgrades to taking care of daily responsibilities, every decision shapes our ability to enjoy life on the road. The best part? We get to do it together, with our three cats, and turn every milestone into a shared adventure.

Traveling Journals to use for Your ADVENTURES

Join Us on the Journey

Follow Me Gone RVing Adventures as we navigate the exciting months ahead. From October milestones to RV remodels, local explorations, and the ultimate leap into full-time RV life, we’re sharing the ups, downs, and everything in between. Life on the road is unpredictable, beautiful, and filled with opportunities to grow—and we can’t wait to share it all with you.

Utah State Capitol.

Two Years at Willard Peak Campground — and Still Standing

We’re coming up on two years with Willard Peak Campground this October, and honestly… that’s just plum crazy. Two whole years. When we stop long enough to really think about it, the feeling isn’t shock—it’s pride.

So, does this make us happy? Yes. But more than that, it makes us feel accomplished. It tells us we showed up, stayed committed, and built something steady in a lifestyle that’s known for constant movement. And truth be told, we’ll likely be here for a couple more years. Not because we’re stuck—but because we’re strategic.

We’ve got some big, expensive goals ahead of us before hitting the road full-time again. And let’s be real for a moment—if we could just STOP buying other people RVs and focus on getting one for ourselves, that would be great. Yikes. True story.

Our poor beast has done its duty, but it’s tired. Very tired. And the need for a bigger kitchen is officially non-negotiable. This next RV purchase isn’t impulsive or emotional—it’s intentional. We’re taking it seriously because it has to support the next chapter of our RV life, not limit it.

That’s also why summer 2025 is such a big deal for us. I’ll be heading over to Montpelier Creek KOA Journey as their summer manager, allowing us to double our income and fast-track our long-term goals. It’s not glamorous, but it’s smart—and sometimes RV life is about discipline more than sunsets.

For now, we’re going to pause. Add some photos. Sit with this milestone. Two years of growth, learning, mistakes, laughs, and perseverance. Then we’ll come back and break it all down—numbers, plans, and what comes next.

One thing’s for sure: we’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re not done yet.

WE WON the WILLARD, UTAH July 4th Parade

Day DATE....
This summer was BEYOND crazy busy where days off were anything but days off. 
We are not complaining because it's a BLESSING to have our job.
We just appreciate those stolen moments for ourselves.

https://linktr.ee/megonervingadventures 

Summer 2022: Learning to Eat Smarter on the Road

The summer of 2022 was a challenge for us—no sugarcoating it. It was our very first summer as full-time RVers, and if you remember that season at all, you already know why it hit hard. Gas prices skyrocketed. Food prices followed right behind. Every fill-up of the truck, generator, or grocery cart felt heavier than the last.

Like everyone else, we weren’t looking to magically save hundreds overnight—we just needed to find something. Even saving $20–$50 here and there could help offset what was being poured straight into fuel tanks. And when you live in an RV, those little savings actually matter.

So we started where it made the most sense: food. After all, we eat three times a day, every single day. Unlike fuel, you can’t skip meals (nor should you), but you can get smarter about how you plan, shop, and cook.

I went down the internet rabbit hole—blogs, Pinterest, YouTube, you name it—researching ways to cook for less without sacrificing nutrition or sanity. And then I stumbled across a YouTube video that promised a solution. Cue the cautious optimism.

“Woot,” I thought. This might actually work.
But then came the fine print…

The video was made two years earlier.

Now, in all fairness to the creator, this wasn’t their fault. Inflation hadn’t fully exploded yet, and grocery prices looked very different back then. Still, the concept intrigued us enough to try it anyway. We figured: even if the numbers didn’t match exactly, maybe the strategy would still hold up.

So we decided to test it—real-life, RV-style. Same idea, updated prices, real grocery stores, real appetites. Would it still save us money? Or would it fall apart under 2022 pricing reality?

What we discovered surprised us. Some things absolutely didn’t translate anymore. Others? Shockingly helpful. It wasn’t a perfect fix, but it gave us tools—better planning, fewer impulse buys, more intentional meals—and those added up over time.

That summer taught us something important: RV life isn’t about perfection, it’s about adaptation. You don’t need to win every battle. You just need enough small wins to keep moving forward.

And sometimes, the answer to rising costs isn’t flashy—it’s learning how to cook smarter, stretch meals further, and be willing to test ideas, even if they’re a little outdated.

Because on the road, flexibility is currency—and we were determined to earn it.

We went to the cheapest store in town. We went to Ogden, Utah to Winco... I had my husband do that shopping explaining to him, that he needed to follow the list as it was written down and to get the cheapest item possible. So here we go....

Grocery Budget Book

1. - 3 lb bag/package of boneless chicken  $11.34
2. - 9 oz chorizo $1.52
3. - 1 lb bag of baby carrots $.98
4. - 2 lb block of cheese (he bought 2-1lb because it was cheaper to do it that way $3.75/$3.30) $7.07 
5. - 1 single garlic bulb .48
6. - 1 roma tomato .28
7. - 1 box of chicken stuffing mix $2.28
8. - 1 can of diced tomatoes $.72
9. - 1 small box of grits $1.92
10. - 1 single sweet potato $2.39
11. - 1 red onion $.65
12. - 1 green pepper $.78
13. - 1 can (10.5 oz)  cream of chicken $1.18
14. - 1 lb box of pasta shells $1.73
15. - 1 lb bag of white rice $2.46
16. - 1 lb bag of black beans $1.28
17. - 1 lb bag of pinto beans $.99
18. - 1 bouillon cubes container  $1.41

_________________________________

Total bill $39.46 BEFORE TAX 

So there was definitely a hike in price since this video was made. Could I make this bill even cheaper. I think so, this was a starting place of better awareness. This is supposed to feed us in for one week. There are no coffee/fruits or veggies (which is an issue for health reasons). Also this was for dinner/lunches - it did not include breakfast. 

Eggs in our store right now are almost $9. I kid you not. Utah min wage is $7.50 and that's what Mark is making. So he would have to work 1.5 hours to pay for eggs. Rent in the town we are in is over $1500 for a 1 bedroom. Gas is currently $4.75 

I now am cooking things from scratch. I literally research and watch food prices since this shopping project we did at winco. I look online because a lot of locals sell produce/eggs for less than the stores and that has helped. I found eggs at $5 a dozen. We've cut WAY down on meat and I only cook enough for that meal to cut the temptation of eating 2nd/3rds - sorry my husband likes to eat. It's been harder on him, because he no longer gets as much. 

Now for me, it's a nightmare because of special items I have no choice but to include in my diet because of my colon cancer. We are ok. But it makes us feel bad for those that are really struggling with what should be a simple cost - food. 

We did this project to open our eyes and to learn. There are no Debbie snacks, steaks, chips, or types of foods in our home at all. We buy no name brand or whichever is cheaper. Our food budget is $200 a month.

AVERAGE 

If you're a single adult, depending on your age and sex (the USDA estimates are higher for men and lower for both women and men 71 and older), look to spend between $229 and $419 each month on groceries. For a two-adult household, the figure above will double: $458 to $838. 

How much should 2 people pay for groceries per month?

For a two-person household, start with $300 per month. This will provide $200 for everyday groceries and an additional $100 to stock up on sale items.

Black beans are a power food - it is a major staple in our home. FIBER.... There are millions of ways to prepare this so that it's tasty and not boring. 

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