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.

The Friendships That Go Beyond the Willard Peak Campground

 One of the things we work hardest at in our workamping journey is staying truly connected with our RV guests. Not just surface-level interactions—but real, meaningful connections.

And every once in a while, something special happens…
Guests become more than guests. They become family.

---

🌟 The Ones You Never Forget

The three incredible people in this photo each came into our lives as RV guests—but they left as lifelong friends.

Wayne was, at first, a true introvert. He kept to himself and didn’t really connect with others in the park. But something changed after he met Evielynne. Slowly but surely, that quiet presence turned into a social butterfly.

He started:

• Participating in events
• Volunteering for setups and takedowns
• Helping move RVs during the 90-day park shuffle

Watching that transformation was something we’ll never forget.

Wayne, Sharon & Amanda 

---

💪 Strong Women, Strong Stories

Then there’s Sharon and Amanda—a mother and daughter duo who each had their own RV, yet shared an incredible bond.

Amanda is one of the strongest people we’ve met. She went through some really tough work environments where she wasn’t treated the way she deserved—but she didn’t let that stop her.

Instead, she:

• Invested in EMT training
• Gave it her all
• And kept pushing forward

Today, she’s thriving in a new job—and we couldn’t be prouder.

Sharon, her mom, has always been a steady and loving presence. Together, they brought warmth and strength to our campground community.

---

💔 The Hard Part of This Life

Here’s something people don’t always understand about being on-site managers:

You don’t always get to have “friends” in your park.

You’re:

• The rule enforcer
• The problem solver
• The one handling difficult situations and gossip

So when genuine friendships do form… they mean everything.

That’s why saying goodbye hits hard.

• Wayne has moved into a senior apartment
• Sharon and Amanda moved out of state to a place with more affordable living
• And Amanda is now flourishing in her new chapter

We’re so happy for them…
But we miss them deeply.

---

❤️ Grateful Beyond Words

Even though they’re no longer in the park, what we built didn’t end when they left.

That’s the beauty of real connection.

If you’re reading this—we want you to know:

👉 We love you.
👉 We are so grateful for you.
👉 And our friendship will always continue, no matter the miles between us.

---

✨ A ME Gone RVing Adventures Friendship Quote

“In the RV life, paths may change and roads may separate—but the friendships built around campfires, laughter, and shared moments will always find their way back to the heart.”

A perfect gift to give a friend who's RV'd a lot

Project Hail Mary Movie & the RV Couple: Finding Two Hours of Peace on the Road

 

Why Monday Movie Nights Mean Everything to Us

For most people, Monday is just the start of another busy week.
For us, it’s something completely different—it’s our reset button.

As Workampers, we’ve been on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the past three and a half years. It’s a lifestyle we’ve chosen and love, but it also means true downtime is rare. That’s why every single Monday, we protect two sacred hours.

No responsibilities.
No interruptions.
No conversations (except a few quiet whispers to each other).

Just us, a big screen, a bucket of popcorn, and a chance to breathe.

---

🍿 Our Little Escape

Every Monday, you’ll find us at Megaplex Theatres Ogden at the Junction.

And honestly? It’s more than just a movie theater to us.

The staff are always kind, respectful, and genuinely welcoming—something that stands out more than you’d think these days. It’s one of those places that still feels good to walk into.

For about $40 a week (two tickets, a large popcorn, and a shared drink), we buy ourselves something priceless:

👉 Two hours of peace.

Some might say that’s expensive.
We say—it’s an investment in our sanity.

---

🌌 The Movie That Surprised Us

This past Monday, we watched Project Hail Mary.

Directed by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, and starring Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace, the film tells the story of a teacher-turned-astronaut on a mission to save Earth from a dying sun.

We went in expecting a typical sci-fi movie.

We were wrong.

It was beautiful, unexpected, and deeply moving.

One of the most refreshing parts?
The portrayal of the alien, Rocky.

Instead of fear, destruction, or invasion—we saw something different:

✨ Friendship
✨ Trust
✨ Goodness

It was genuinely refreshing to see a story where a human travels to another world—and finds something pure instead of something to fight.

The practical effects were incredible, the storytelling was powerful, and by the end, we both agreed:

👉 This one feels Oscar-worthy.

---

🚐 Why This Matters to Us as RVers

When you live life on the road (or are preparing to), entertainment looks a little different.

You don’t always have the same routines, the same comforts, or even the same downtime. So when you find something that gives you consistency and rest, you hold onto it.

That’s why we also plan ahead.

We’ve started investing in a Cinemark and Regal gift cards and use their app to set aside about $50 a month. That way, when we’re traveling, we’ll already have funds ready for future movie nights—no matter where we land.

And we’re not stopping there.

We’re also:

• Prepaying gas cards
• Setting aside restaurant funds
• Paying our cell phone bill two years ahead
• Covering streaming services two years in advance

Why?

Because when we hit the road again, we’re planning something intentional:

👉 A full year of true rest.

After working as hard as we are right now, we want that first year back to be about enjoying the journey—not stressing over every dollar.

RV Living Mastery

---

❤️ Support Local, Create Moments

If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this:

Experiences matter.

Supporting your local movie theater isn’t just about watching a film—it’s about preserving places where people can unplug, connect, and just be.

So if you’re looking for something to do…

👉 Go see Project Hail Mary.
👉 Buy the popcorn.
👉 Sit back.
👉 And give yourself permission to pause.

Because sometimes, the best thing you can do for your life…

…is take two hours off from it. 🍿✨

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.

Get Divorce or Stay Together in the RV World?

Are we having problems with our marriage? To answer that… we’ll wait a bit. Drama tends to get better ratings than normal, everyday life, but in all seriousness, this is a topic that comes up often in our RV life. How hard is it really to have fun while traveling? To answer bluntly—it depends entirely on the couple.

We’ve all seen tragic stories, like Gabby Petito’s, all over social media. Traveling in a van across the country, sharing the “perfect” images online, but hiding the struggles behind closed doors. Her story is heartbreaking, a sharp reminder that appearances can be deceiving. And it makes you think: if traveling couples can experience such extreme issues, what about the rest of us?

We recently had an encounter that really made me pause. We met a couple who seemed perfectly normal on the surface. We swapped stories, helped them settle into their spot, and went about our day. Then we received a call—something was wrong with their electricity. I decided to go along with Mark, both for company and for fresh air. While Mark worked on the RV, I had a moment alone with the husband. Something was off, and I could feel it immediately.

The husband shared the difficulties they’d faced since starting full-time RVing—the unfair treatment at workamping positions, drug and alcohol issues with bosses, low pay, and constant stress. It was enough to bring the wife to the point of saying she wanted to sell the RV and get divorced. Watching the husband verge on tears, I had no idea what to say, other than, “Take baby steps, give yourselves space, and breathe.” It was a stark reminder that there are always three sides to the truth: His, Hers, and the Truth.

Driving away, I felt a deep, quiet fear. This was the third couple we’ve met who confided something similar. It’s not just a coincidence—it’s a real concern in the RVing community.

So, are we getting a divorce? Not even close. Mark noticed my quiet mood and suggested a walk to talk. I asked him bluntly: Are you happy? Is this life what you envisioned? Are you doing this for me, or because it’s your dream too?

His response was simple and grounding:

“I am so thankful for your dreams. I am so thankful for my dreams. We share the same dream, and we get the honor to live it together. That’s why we’re a success. Our bad day is better than most people’s good days.”

And there you have it. No divorce. But that moment reminded us how hard RV life can be, and how important it is to communicate, respect each other’s needs, and prioritize your marriage.

---

Lessons We’ve Learned About Marriage on the Road

RV life is not all sunshine and rainbows. Couples need to consider carefully before hitting the road:

1. Learn to fight without fighting. Timing, tone, and approach matter.

2. Respect alone time. We’ve structured our days so that I have quiet podcast time in the car, while Mark enjoys music in the truck. He loves his Nintendo Switch, I watch movies or cook in our tiny kitchen. It works.

3. Don’t let anyone interfere with your marriage. If a couple favors one spouse over the other, RUN. Those dynamics are toxic.

4. Past accusations are warning signs. If someone constantly talks about affairs, dishonesty, or drama from their past, disengage. You don’t need that negativity.

5. Agree on responsibilities. I may not park the trailer often, because Mark enjoys it. I help in other ways. Understanding roles reduces tension.

---

Protect Your Marriage From External Stress

RV life comes with challenges—small quarters, constant travel, workamping pressures—but no external influence should tear your marriage apart. Couples will try to inject their drama, judge your decisions, or manipulate your choices. Protect your bond. Prioritize each other above all else.

We’ve learned the value of boundaries. If someone doesn’t like Mark, they don’t like me—and vice versa. We have each other’s backs, always. We’ve created code words for communication, set boundaries after negative experiences, and proudly say “Bugger Off” to anyone who tries to interfere.

Marriage Book we RECOMMEND

---

Choosing Happiness Every Day

Life in an RV is a choice, and happiness is too. You don’t have to have the perfect RV, the most followers, or the fanciest setup. You don’t have to visit every destination. It’s ok to fail. It’s not ok to be unhappy.

We’ve seen enough couples struggle because they neglected communication, respect, or mutual dreams. Don’t let yourself become another cautionary tale. We’ve made mistakes, but we’ve learned from them—and that knowledge has protected our marriage.

Coalville, Utah, has been transformative for us. We set ground rules, recognized signs of potential conflict, and learned to stand together. Now, our marriage is stronger than ever.

---

Practical Advice for RV Couples

• Communicate openly. Don’t hide feelings; share respectfully.

• Respect alone time. Even in small quarters, find your sanctuary.

• Set boundaries. Protect your marriage from toxic influence.

• Split responsibilities. Play to strengths; don’t compete.

• Prioritize fun together. Be each other’s entertainment and support.

• Stay adaptable. Life on the road is unpredictable; flexibility is key.

---

RV Must-Haves for Couples

If you’re new to RV life or looking to upgrade, we’ve curated some RV essentials that help keep life smooth and fun. From practical gadgets to comfort tools, these items have made our adventures easier. Check them out here: RV Newbie Must Haves (we get associate credit if purchased).

---

RVing is amazing, but it’s not always easy. For couples, it’s a test of communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. We’re proof that it’s possible to thrive, stay happy, and protect your relationship—even in tiny quarters and long travel days.

Gabby Petito’s story reminds us of the stakes. It’s real. Life is precious, and so is the bond you share with your partner. Fight for each other. Communicate. Protect your marriage. Prioritize happiness, not appearances. And remember, it’s ok to make your own rules, carve out your own time, and say no to people who bring drama.

For us, Me Gone RVing Adventures is more than a name—it’s a journey we take together, with laughter, respect, and love leading the way.