Photography, Wisconsin

Big Changes Ahead

by Ingrid

I can’t believe it’s August already. Summer is winding down and 2021 is more than halfway over. Personally, it has been an interesting year filled with challenges and questions about our future. Thanks to a virus, life, in general, isn’t what it used to be and changes have definitely permeated into all aspects of life including travel and RVing.

But if I’m being honest, my restlessness started months before the pandemic hit. I’m a person who has always embraced change, and if life becomes too routine, I get bored. Thus, jumping into the full-time RV lifestyle over eight years ago wasn’t all that surprising. After all, my wanderlust and sense of adventure were passed down to me from my parents.

Our Next Chapter

When that sense of restlessness, sense of discontentment set in a couple of years ago, I went on a quest, a quest to quench an unknown thirst. Al and I changed up how, where, and when we traveled. We even shopped for different RVs, but the more options we explored, the more confused we became. We knew it was time for a change, but we didn’t know what that change would look like.

Going in different directions.

And then the country, the world, was turned upside down by a virus. Life changed. Our ability to travel at will changed. All of a sudden, we were faced with our mortality. I know I certainly was when I started off the new year with a visit to the emergency room with an inconvenient GI issue. When my doctor insisted I visit the ER for an immediate CT scan, I went into full-on “Grey’s Anatomy” panic. I’ve probably watched way too many medical shows.

Visions of an ER overrun with COVID patients followed by a vision of me waiting hours for medical attention ran through my head. And then, I’d be forgotten. Eventually my intestines would rupture causing me to expire long before anyone notices me slumped in a corner in an overcrowded waiting room. Ok, perhaps that was a little melodramatic, but there’s nothing like an ER visit to get in touch with one’s priorities.

My dramatic concerns were unwarranted. The visit went great … well, as great as an ER visit goes. It was quick, efficient, with friendly and helpful care. Two hours after my arrival, I was skipping out of the hospital with a couple of prescriptions in hand. Ok, maybe I wasn’t exactly skipping, but I was relieved.

There were a few other negative things that transpired during the past year making it feel like we were punched between the eyes…. more than once. Perhaps, this was our wake-up call. Clarity set in for both Al and myself. We knew what we needed to do which was not initially what we wanted to do.

The path isn’t always clear!

Life is interesting that way. Throughout our many years together, most of the big life changes Al and I made were due to extenuating circumstances. We moved into our RV full-time not because it was a lifelong dream, but rather, to serve as a break from life. The economy had negatively impacted our business, and we decided to take a break for a year or two until things turned around. Hah! The RV lifestyle was addictive and too much fun. Therefore, we never returned to that former life, and now, here we are more than eight years later still living in the RV.

But then life as we’ve known it has changed causing us to reflect. Without a doubt, it’s time for us to change things up again due to extenuating circumstances. If there’s one thing that RVing has taught me, it’s everything is temporary.

Life will make you grow!

Selling the RV

This is our third summer parking the RV on family property in northern Wisconsin. We enjoy our time here and will continue to savor the views, hang with family, and live in the RV for the next several weeks before returning to Phoenix in September. Upon our Arizona arrival, we’ll be moving into a real sticks and bricks house and putting the 5th Wheel up for sale.

Our decision is bittersweet, and we’ve thought about it long and hard. We’ve hemmed and hawed, gone back and forth, but in the long run, we know it’s best to sell the RV. We are definitely NOT done RVing (it’s in my blood), but merely taking a break. We love our 5th Wheel. It has been very good to us, and we’ve seriously thought about keeping her, but RV’s are meant to be used and not left ignored in a storage lot. So, hopefully, we’ll find someone who’ll want to keep her wheels rolling and love her as much as we have.

Everything is temporary!

The Best Part of RV Life

Over the years, we’ve experienced some stunning scenery, encountered wonderful wildlife, and had amazing adventures, but the best part about the RV lifestyle is meeting like-minded people and developing friendships.

This summer, we’ve reconnected with Joodie and TBG from the blog, Chasing Dirt. They are spending the summer volunteering at the Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland, Wisconsin, which is about a one-hour drive from our lakefront home near Hayward, Wisconsin, making it easy to arrange a few get-togethers.

Blueberry Picking, a Picnic and a Short Hike

July 26 — The smoke-filled skies from forest fires to the north didn’t stop this foursome of seasoned RVers from enjoying an outing. It was a beautiful Monday morning, despite the hazy skies, when Al and I picked up Joodie and TBG for a morning of blueberry picking at my favorite farm in Bayfield, Wisconsin. The bushes were loaded with plump ripe blueberries. We timed our visit perfectly and ended up picking over 5 pounds of blueberries – yum! (I’ve shared more adventures in this part of Wisconsin in years past. You can read those posts here and here.)

Living the dream!

After picking blueberries and strolling around the Blue Vista Farm, it was time to find a picturesque place for a picnic lunch, and I knew just the spot located along the shores of Lake Superior.

After appetites were satiated, a little exercise was in order. I introduced everyone to my favorite little hike in Bayfield; the Iron Bridge Trail. Unfortunately, the drought conditions had the creek barely trickling and the water crossings which usually require a bit of a balancing act proved to be uneventful. It was still an enjoyable stroll through a ravine among lush vegetation despite the lackluster amount of water.

Seasons they will change – Iron Bridge Trail in the fall

Before long, it was time for Al and me to drop off our friends and head home, but not before planning another adventure. Fingers crossed, Mother Nature cooperates for our next gettogether.

Blueberries and Imagine Dragons?

What do you do with 5 pounds of freshly picked blueberries? Well, there’s blueberry pancakes, blueberry coffee cake, blueberry muffins, blueberry banana bread, blueberries in cereal, blueberries in a salad, or how about just eating a handful of blueberries? Seriously, the choices are endless. With that said, while I’ve been spending a little extra time in the kitchen communing with blueberries, I’ve enjoyed music playing in the background.

One of my favorite CDs, yes I still play CDs, is by the band Imagine Dragons. I have a few favorite songs, but one song in particular recently resonated with me. Perhaps it has to do with my current mood as we prepare for the upcoming changes in our life, changes that I’m still processing, changes that I’m excited about yet slightly apprehensive about. I remind myself, everything is temporary!

Sunset … hope to see you again!
Sunrise …. wishing and dreaming!
Birds by Imagine Dragons

Seasons, they will change
Life will make you grow
Dreams will make you cry
Everything is temporary

Birds fly in different directions
I hope to see you again

Sunsets, sunrises, living the dream
Watching the leaves, changing the seasons
Wishing it'd last, wishing and dreaming

Everything is temporary!

Thank you, Terri for asking us to share images inspired by a Song or Poem for today’s Sunday Stills photo challenge. Although, the song “Birds” by Imagine Dragons isn’t necessarily a favorite, the song seems to fit my current mood along with these images. I don’t think I’ll be back to regular posting just yet. I’m still processing the upcoming changes. I guess part of me is excited and ready for a major change while another part of me is a bit sad and hesitant. Please know, although I’m a little quiet these days, I’m still reading and following YOUR posts. ❤

Thanks for stopping by and remember … everything is temporary!

150 thoughts on “Big Changes Ahead”

  2. When I saw your insta post about changes, just had to search your blog for an update. Sure hope you all are ok. New chapters are scary and exciting. Our relocation to Oregon next summer is creating anxiety on some days and excitement on others – depends on my mood. lol. Till then, going to try and live in the moment and let things unfold as they will. Hang in there, you have lots more to explore in this life 🙂

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    1. Yes, there’s a lot of anxiety with big changes. Now that we’re actually in the house (almost 2 weeks), we’re settling into our new lifestyle and loving it. We don’t intend to give up RVing but rather take a short break, focus on health, and find a smaller more nimble mode of travel. 😊

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  4. I think we can all understand your decision to transition into part time traveling…especially when health issues are involved. I know you will enjoy your new life adventure and put as much enthusiasm into it as you have done in the past. Gook luck in your home.

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    1. Thank you Karen. I know it’ll be a big change, but then again, moving into the RV was a huge change. With a full-size kitchen, perhaps I’ll focus a bit more on cooking and baking. But first, the remodel 😮 Supposedly the 70’s are back, but been there, done that so the house will definitely not be anything 70’s 🤣 I’ll leave the 70’s decor to the youngins who didn’t already live it.

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  6. Ingrid I am late to the party but I wish you both the very best on your new adventure. Life changes a great deal over the years and good for you to recognize what worked well once no longer does. I read in one of your answers that you aren’t sure what you will do with the blog. I do have one suggestion to not let go of the domain as you never know what the future holds. It’s been such a pleasure following along on your RV adventures. I think we have been following each other since our early days of blogging. Best wishes for the future, wherever your path leads. XO

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    1. Thank you, Sue. Yes, you and I have been following each other from our early days of blogging and followed each other experiencing some major life changes … retirement, children getting married, and having their own children, etc.
      I definitely won’t be giving up my domain. I’m just not sure what direction the blog will take. Like all things in life, it’ll evolve and we’ll still travel in some form. I can’t imagine not having some sort of RV as that’s my favorite way to travel. We’re taking it one step at a time, and right now, my mind is swirling with home remodeling ideas.🥴

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  8. I found reading this to be both fascinating and thought-provoking – fascinating to learn about what steered you towards the RV lifestyle and how you are now moving away from it again, and thought-provoking because it made me pause to check in with myself. Am I still living the life I want to? The answer is yes, but I need to keep remembering to ask myself, and my husband, that question from time to time as we get older.

    I didn’t know the song you quote but I can see how the words would resonate with you, and the bird photos you’ve used to accompany it are lovely.

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    1. Thank you! Sometimes we get so busy with daily life that it’s easy to just grind things out and forget to check in with ourselves to see if we’re leading the life we want and are still happy. Sitting around a campfire with a drink (or two) while discussing more serious topics finally brought about some clarity for us … that and an ER visit. Glad you are living the life YOU want and always nice to hear from you. 😀

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  9. Well, onward and upward….good luck with your new project home. John and I seem to be losing our wanderlust a bit these days too. We don’t seek the new and unknown, but savor returning to the places we’ve been and loved. The National Parks seem to be out of reach these days – too many people. Too much commotion. Or maybe we are just getting old.

    Enjoy the new chapter.

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    1. Thanks and good to hear from you, Judy. I totally agree with you regarding too many people traveling. We canceled our UP excursion this summer which included a B&B overnight on Mackinac Island. I was really looking forward to returning to the island, but it has been their busiest season ever. As much as we enjoy exploring new places, we love returning to familiar spots…. guess we’re getting old too. 😀

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  10. It’s good to hear from you, Ingrid. We certainly understand your decision to transition into part-time traveling. The world has changed and we have changed…we still want to travel, too, but it will probably be part time at this point. We’ve grown accustomed to having more space, and the ease that comes with having a home base (although I had forgotten what a pain it is to pack the trailer for a trip!).

    Congratulations on your new home! I’m sure you’re going to have a great time with home projects. And I hope you have plenty of time to relax and recharge and to reconnect with your dreams. Take good care and enjoy this new chapter! (So fun to see you with Mark and Joodie. :-))

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    1. Thank you, Laurel. We’re getting more excited about the change as our time to return to Phoenix nears.

      It does not surprise me that you decided to settle into the place in FL. You have no idea how I screamed at the computer “No, don’t sell!” when you were getting the property ready to put on the market. 😆 I think you’ll be happy with part-time travel as I’m sure we will as well. We had a great time connecting with Mark and Joodie.

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  11. We enjoy your photos and blog so much. Thanks for taking the time to share with all of us. I know you will enjoy transitioning to a new house that is not on wheels. All the best.

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    1. Thank you! I’m still not sure how this blog will transition or if I’ll even continue blogging, but I can’t imagine totally giving up on blogging or RVing. So, I’ll probably just take a temporary break from both. Stay tuned!

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  12. Selling your RV will be hard I’m sure. Saying farewell is bittersweet. The road is not so long that it doesn’t have a turn in it somewhere. A new adventure is coming.

    Blue Rock Horses Frederick County, Virginia bluerockhorses.com

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  13. “Everything is temporary.” So true. And thankfully there is always another adventure ahead which I’d have to include someday that journey from which no one returns.

    I’m sure you will keep us posted on the events in your upcoming move. I’ve always appreciated learning from you. Things as small as the decision to buy a house or build one, to include have your home ownership priorities changed since you sold the last one. Someday, who knows when, we will be in the same position and have to make those decisions.

    Good time to sell an RV!

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    1. I hope our RV sells quickly as I don’t relish paying for storage. We’ll be taking things one step at a time. I don’t know how long I’ll be able to sit stationary before that itch for an excursion emerges. I have some non-RV ideas in mind until we find something small and nimble.

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    1. Thank you Donna. I’m looking forward to this next chapter but know the itch for RVing isn’t over. I would love to visit your neck of the woods. Between your hiking posts and YouTuber Gavin Hardcastle, my interest in visiting VI has only grown. Such beautiful landscape.

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  15. Oh my!!! First, oh how we loved the month we spent in Wisconsin! We need to go back and I’m heading to the blueberry fields! My mouth is watering.
    I feel sad with you-it was so hard to stop doing what we loved! And yes, a health scare for both of us was a bit of a wake up call.
    I look at what Pam and John did, The Places We Go, did it right! A port home so both the sticks and bricks with their MH was ideal. No way to have done that in Myrtle Beach! And as you said, the wheels are made for rolling.
    We really like the idea of a Class B. With lithium batteries and solar panels, it’s easy to boondock. And it’s so nimble. We honestly think we can do it but just being able to get the exact model that will meet our needs is the challenge. It’s slim pickings out there!
    So stay tuned and I look forward to seeing how things workout for you two.

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    1. Like you, we never did get in all the RVing we wanted to do, but there’s always priorities dictating our travels. Our plan is to eventually find something small and nimble. We’re just not sure what that’ll look like and right now the pickings are slim. So we’ll take an RV break and reassess down the road. Taking it one step at a time.

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      1. I’m reading your comments in reverse order! We agree about how our travel was dictated by other family priorities. Lots has changed so we think we can start hitting the road – soon. In the next year, maybe? But we’re getting older….And yes, the pickings are slim. And, I’ve read about a number of problems with class B made during 2020-2021 where only essential workers/businesses were on top of things. We’d like new, but that’s a huge concern.
        We are going to the Hershey Super RV show next month. Bill likes talking with the manufacturer’s reps and other owners wandering around! We learn so much from them. So we’ll see how things shake out and now you’ve given us something else to consider-a truck camper!

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        1. When it comes to a truck camper, keep in mind weight and length of truck bed. Lots of variables to consider. Also, the truck camper is more difficult to live in as we age. Just a thought!

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  17. Wow exciting changes ahead for you and Al, I look forward to reading about your next chapter in life. Although I’m not totally surprised, I sensed through you blogs over the last few years that you may eventually give up full time RVing and settle in Phoenix.

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    1. Those that have met us know we’ve been on a house hunt for a long time. Funny how we thought we wanted one thing yet bought the opposite. Leave it to a virus and an ER visit to take us in this surprising direction. I hope I like it!

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  18. Beautifully written! I have so enjoyed following along with your RV adventures these last few years and now I look forward to hearing about your adventures in Arizona. Wishing you safe travels and a smooth transition.

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    1. Thank you. Just like we enjoyed calling Colorado home, I’m sure we’ll enjoy calling Arizona home. The transition from the RV to a real house may take a little getting used to, but I’m ready.

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  19. Life is certainly temporary and one adventurous chapter to the next. Sounds like this next life transition is in the works – wishing you the best 🙂 We started a life transition in 2008/2009 that had plenty of plot twists and turns along the way until we made the decision to move to Florida in 2015. The memories are reflected on and this has been a happy and healthy decision and enjoy living where we are right now. I am sure we will be on the move again, but not anytime soon. Family now seems to be following us – ha! – we enjoy it – lived 11 years out west with no immediate family around – this is a nice change. Take Care – Happy Day – Enjoy!

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    1. Having family somewhat close is wonderful, and after the past year and a half, that became our top priority. There’s a time in our lives for various stages, and when the tides change, it’s time for a new direction … one that I’m beginning to get excited about. Always nice hearing from you, Renee.

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  20. Ingrid, best of luck to you and Al in the next chapter of your adventures. We are enjoying being back in a sticks and bricks house — all the extra space is so luxurious! — and have been particularly happy to land in a place with a strong sense of community and lots of volunteer opportunities. I hope you love your new community, along with being close to family. But I am also itching to get back on the road and am counting down the days until next summer.

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    1. You landed in a lovely spot and being stuck there certainly isn’t the worst thing. Love your turtle happenings on IG. Our goal all along was to part-time RV so I’m hoping this next chapter works out well.

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  21. Will do. We ARE making major changes next year. But we’re excited for the next chapter. Sorry to hear about all your smoke up there. It’s been smelling like a campfire when we walk out our door here too. We couldn’t even let our grandsons play outside this past weekend. Hopefully clearing skies this week. Safe travels when you head south.

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    1. I hope the rain we received over the weekend helps drown out some of the fires. I look forward to hearing about YOUR new chapter.

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  22. Exciting changes and hard but fun work ahead! I can’t believe we will be “neighbors!” You will be surprised you will just fit right in and ready to tackle your next chapter. Knowing you and Al, you will just dive in and picked up where you last left off eight years ago. As for us, when Betsy was sold then the Honda CRV our RV life was finally close and great memories are cherished.
    Nicely written couple with great photos to complement your thoughts.
    Welcome to the sticks and bricks world!

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    1. I’m looking forward to starting all the home projects that are currently swirling through my head. I’m not sure if we’ll dive right in with the updating, or wait a few months. With that said, Joodie and I nominated you 🤣 to host a get-together this winter since your house is beautiful and mine will take some work. We’ll be returning to the valley in September (almost a month earlier than originally planned).and look forward to seeing you guys.

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      2. I know you are not going to wait for a few months, you will be busy prioritizing projects 🙂
        Aww, thank you but, What? We will be glad to host, we have been very lonely this summer, no one to entertain to, our friends are all over the country!

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        1. Yeah, I’m afraid I’ll want to dive right into projects. Well, summer ’22, we plan on staying home. We may take note of what you did and do some short getaways just to get in a break from the heat. See ya soon!

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  23. I tell myself everything is temporary especially when things get hard.

    But anyways, deciding to settle and wrap up RV life is a MAJOR life decision. I look forward to your adventures in Arizona — it’s beautiful over there!

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    1. Great advice! We do enjoy the diversity that Arizona has to offer. So, I’m hoping we won’t miss life on the road too much.

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    1. Now that’s the million dollar question, isn’t it? Do I keep blogging with the current name, or do I change it, or do I start all over? I think my head is spinning 😵🤪😆

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  25. Sometimes, Ingrid, when the brain is conflicted, the heart gently takes it by the hand and leads the way. Follow your heart, follow your dreams (even when they change and become what you did not expect) and contentment will follow. Wishing you and Al safe travels and much contentment – no matter where your heart takes you!

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    1. Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Mary. Right now logic is prevailing and the heart is following. I know it’s the right decision even though the transition might be challenging. Oh whatever shall I blog about?

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  26. We had that moment a few years back so I totally understand. Selling your RV is bittersweet indeed, but many new adventures await, of that I have no doubt.

    Nina

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    1. Thanks for stopping by Nina. I do remember following your big move and the range of emotions that entailed. Although our new chapter isn’t quite as drastic as yours, the range of emotions are still rampant.
      I sure wish we could find a similar RV to yours … something nimble yet comfortable.

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  27. These Covid times have made travelling more like ‘ducking and weaving’ and you’re not the first ones to rest up for a while. Thank so much for sharing your road life with us and best wishes for all of your future adventures! Safe travels whatever they may be.

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    1. Ducking and weaving sums it up perfectly. Unfortunately, this virius has effect the entire world, and it doesn’t seem to be disappearing anytime soon. We’ll take it one step at a time and hopefully be back traveling in some form down the road.

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  28. Wow. This blog post comes as a little bit of a shock, Ingrid. Yet, it sounds like it’s time for a change again. Temporary, of course. 🙂

    One of my motto’s is that “everything ends.” Not necessarily a positive way to think when life is going well, but it has helped me in the past, when things are going (terribly) wrong. I hope your and Al’s health is okay now and that you’ll have fun finding a new place to live. Will it be in Phoenix? All the best!! And, happy “shopping” and selling.

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    1. We bought a small house in Phx west valley. Thus, taking a temporary break from RVing just until we get settled and sell the 5th wheel and then decide on the next move. One step at a time. We’re ready for the change!

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  29. What a treat it’s been to have you two near after almost two years since our last visits. We, too, hope the weather cooperates in the time we have left for a couple more outings together before we all head south. The best news is that we’ll all be in the Phoenix area for part of this winter! I know it was a long, difficult decision to put down after so long, but I know also that your adventures are far, far from over.

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    1. There are still so many places we’d love to travel to, but for now, we need a break. I even canceled all our summer excursions. My heart just isn’t into exploring right now. I’ll let you know if we head back up to Bayfield for more blueberries before the bushes are empty. Seems the four of us may be heading south sooner than originally planned. Love the flexibility our RV’s allow.

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  30. Hi Ingrid, It’s so good to hear from you! I’ve been wondering how your summer was going. This particular set of pictures is stunning – thank you! I like the song lyrics too – perfect for all of us these days. Nothing stays the same, but sometimes the change is even better than hoped! I haven’t posted as much lately either – just too much going on. I do have something new to talk about – our vacation to Iceland last week to see the volcano. Coming up soon! Best wishes in your new home. Can’t wait to hear about it! Pam

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    1. That’s right, you went to Iceland! I can’t wait to see/hear all about it. I recently watched YouTubers Tim and Fin’ as they explored Iceland. And today, my husband and I traveled down memory lane as we watched “Kara & Nate” as they paddle the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. We have such memories of our vacations up there. Where has the time gone? A new stage in life, a new chapter!

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      1. We make memories every day – let’s plan for those new ones! Hope to make a return visit to Page next April (I hope!).

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  31. Glad to hear from you! We ALL enjoy your photography so we ALL hope that continues. You will be quite busy when you get back but it will be a good busy. And hopefully when things settle down for you… you will share the beauty that surrounds you.

    You both will be traveling again… just in a new RV and you will travel once you get your new house the way you want it. A great adventure awaits you. How fun!

    I’m glad all worked out for you health wise. It’s not fun to be worried about our health.

    We are headed back later this year… mid October. I want to be here for my alma mater University Homecoming. Let’s really try to connect after we both are more settled. For me… that may be in November! Lol!

    Have fun decorating! Enjoy this new chapter… temporary or permanent… it’s going to be wonderful!

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    1. As you well know, where and what we bought wasn’t even close to what we thought we wanted, but that ER visit (along with some other things) took us in this direction. I’ve hardly picked up my camera all summer, but what little I’ve captured, I’ve enjoyed. The ducks and the loons always captivate my attention. I’ve also really enjoyed going out kayaking.
      Moving into the house will be overwhelming at first. Part of me wants to start with the major remodel right away and the other part says wait and think about it. We’ll see which side of me wins 😁

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        1. I know you share my love of loons. The smoke filled skies has made it challenging to enjoy the lake these past few weeks. I’m hoping the rains we received knocked down the fires to the north. I’m ready to head “home” 😮 but know I’ll miss these lake views.

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  32. Hi Ingrid, I know we have never met but we’ve always felt connected to you and Al. The last couple of years have been the same for us. We were able to trade our 05 Cougar for an 21 Reflection but our discontentment is still strong. We are now looking for a piece of property somewhere so we can come off the road. We often think of you, good luck, and God bless

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    1. Funny that you too are dealing with a discontentment. After shopping for different RVs to continue the full-time lifestyle, we realized it wasn’t about the RV. We couldn’t find anything we liked more than our 5th Wheel. It was us. We wanted a place to call home, a place to regroup, a place to hide from constant mask wearing, and a place to find comfort during potential illness. I hope you find a property that feels like home. We bought in a 55+ planned community which is NOT what we thought we wanted. We originally were looking for land. Time will tell if we made the right decision. If you’re ever in the Phoenix area, don’t hesitate to reach out.

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  34. I’ve been thinking of you and Al and wondering, sending prayers of support. I am glad to read you are well and enjoying lake life Up North. I hope you are able to get back there in summers to come. I’ve enjoyed following your adventures and your photos across the western states and even your winter in South Padre. i hope you continue to write and publish your amazing photos. Stay safe and well. Peace to you and Al.

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    1. Hi Clay, thank you for the thoughtful comment. I can’t imagine not traveling to some of our favorite spots. We just need to figure out what that travel will look like. Hope you had an enjoyable summer and got in plenty of time at the cabin.

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  35. Nice to see you here, Ingrid, and your exceptionally beautiful photos! You bring up a great point of too many options. And yes, ER visits and priorities. A great deal of wisdom in this post, and I am nodding my head, yes, all the way through. ‘Everything is temporary’ ‘the path isn’t always clear’ the pros of a real ‘sticks and bricks house’

    Unfortunately we are also seeing and smelling the smoke-filled skies, yet counting our blessings. The families and home in the midst of it all are faring poorly.

    The words: Birds by Imagine Dragons make my eyes leak. Thank you for sharing a heartfelt post and your amazing photography, Ingrid. This is another beginning…❤️

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    1. You are very welcome Erica and thank you for taking the time to comment. The forest fires are always scary and heartbreaking. One day, I hope to make it to your neck of the woods. My RV travel list only grew over the years along with my list of places to return… another chapter!

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  36. Always a pleasure to read your posts. Thanks for sharing your next journey, I look forward to hearing more of your new chapter in life.

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  37. 8 years is a good long run. Most people don’t do this for 3 years, much less 8. As far as I can tell, doing what you’re doing will offer the best of both worlds. You’ll have a nice comfortable place to call your own, and then a smaller, more flexible RV to go where you want, when you want. And if it all goes to hell and you decide you’ve made a terrible mistake, you can just buy another RV or move to a different house or explore a whole other state. There aren’t many decisions that can’t be undone, and you won’t know until you try, so go for it!

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    1. Yep, we won’t know until we try and everything is temporary. So, we’ll jump into stationary life for a bit and hopefully find a more nimble RV for part-time travel. 8 years – it has been a good run but I was probably ready for a change 3 years ago. 😎

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  39. It’s good to hear from you again. I know the decision to leave the road was hard but seems to be the best option given the way the world is at the present. We hope to be able to visit you this winter when we’re back in Mesa.

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    1. Hi Cheryl, nice to hear from you. We’ll be back in the valley in September unpacking and settling into our new (new to us) home in the northwest valley. It was a tough decision deciding what/where we wanted to settle. At one point we thought home would be in Prescott Valley but when Al’s one sister moved to Sun City, we decided Phoenix worked best. Let’s get together this winter!

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  40. For those of us who love change, a new adventure creates a spark we need. Enjoy all your changes! Your summer in WI sounds wonderful. Loved your post. If you need a place to stop on your way to PHX this Fall, our driveway is still available. Just let us know. But you wouldn’t want to be here this week. The smoke is horrendous! Hope most of it stays away from Hayward.

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    1. Unfortunately, we’ve been dealing with hazy skies for the past month. Big fire up near Ely MN as well as across the border near International Falls, not to mention, haze from the fires out west. Some days it smells like we’re surrounded by campfires. Not fun. It has been a strange summer.
      So gracious of you to offer up your driveway again. I think we plan on angling down toward Tucumcari through KS but if we change our minds, I’ll be sure and let you know. Thank you! And keep me posted on YOUR changes.

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  41. Nice to get an update from you. Quite exciting news – what’s not to like about having a bricks and mortar home base for those times when ‘there is no place quite like home!” We haven’t seen our Arizona home (in a +55 community but in a rural area with really big lots) for over a year, but we are sure thankful we have a Canadian home base to hole up in!

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    1. Having a small lot will be the biggest adjustment for us, and that’s probably the main item that I’m most apprehensive about. Hopefully, you’ll be able to visit your AZ home this winter. My brother-in-law is planning on going to ON tomorrow for a week of fishing. We’ll see if he gets across the border near Thunder Bay with his approval number.

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  42. I really enjoyed your post and your wisdom from life on the road. Blueberry picking brings back wonderful memories for me, also in N Wi – picking for hours and making pies.

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    1. I love northern Wisconsin and could live here if not for the harsh winters, overcast skies, and extreme humidity, but when the weather is agreeable, it’s the best.😄 We enjoyed the blueberry picking, and in years past the apple picking. Unfortunately, we’ll be heading back to AZ before the apples are ready to pick and miss fall colors.

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  43. Ingrid, thanks for the update and for sharing your beautiful photographs. I too thrive on change, and I know what that feels like so I can’t see you sitting still for long. Malcolm and I are entering a new chapter also. We just sold our home and have taken a room in his mom’s house. We will settle in for a short while and then start traveling again. We like the idea of not having a home, but still having a place to come home to, if that makes sense. Best of luck with your new chapter.

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    1. I think that’s what we were missing the most over the past few years – a place to come home to, a place to regroup. I lost my sense of wanderlust and hope to regain it after living stationary for a while. This pandemic certainly hasn’t helped either. Congrats on selling the house and hope you have some great adventures in your future. Keep us posted!

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  44. Thanks, Ingrid, for that long and interesting update on your life and situation. I’m so happy to hear from you again after the long break in blogging, and to know that you’re well. I’m especially happy for you that the visit to the ER showed nothing serious.
    Well, Covid has changed all our lives, hasn’t it? Unfortunately.
    For us, it has meant no travelling at all for much of last year. We had to cancel our plans for Europe. We had planned and booked 4 weeks in Ireland in May and 4 weeks in southern Germany and the neighbouring countries in August. Luckily we could cancel without cost to us. With all our accommodation we were still within the time frames for cancellation without cost. Lufthansa fully refunded us the costs for the flights, and British Airways gave us a voucher. That will have to be spent by the end of April next year. So we hope we’ll be able to fly to Ireland then. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
    After August last year, we slowly and tentatively started to travel again, first with just day trips to nearby parks. We extended that and stayed overnight, and a few weeks ago we went on a long trip, to California, so that Mary could – for the first time after almost 2 years – see her children again. We didn’t want to fly, though – not yet. So we drove all the way down and back in our new truck. The way up there was quick, in just three days, without any sightseeing. That we did on our way back. I’ll be writing about that some time soon. For now, I’m still catching up with other trips.
    As to our RVing plans: we have given up on these, for various reasons. Mainly: we would not have wanted to pull a car behind a motorhome, and for a fifth wheel we would have needed much too big a truck. So we decided to get us an F-150 and travel – as we did before – by staying in motels and/or B&Bs. That’s a way that suits us more.
    For your future (plans) I wish you good luck: whatever you do, I hope you’ll enjoy it and will be happy with it. But most of all: stay healthy!
    Looking forward to hearing again here from you, and sending best wishes,
    Pit

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    1. I’m so sorry to hear that you had to cancel your European trip. Who would’ve thought we’d still be dealing with this virus! It has put a lot of us in a funk of a mood, that’s for sure.
      Fortunately, for the most part, Al and I are healthy but do have issues that’ll be easier to deal with by living stationary. I also think we were feeling a little burned out on travel. Love your new truck! We owned several F-150’s over the years and may go back to one once we decide on our RVing future.
      I look forward to hearing about that CA trip and glad Mary was able to visit with her children. 😀

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      1. I really love our F-150, too! I deliberately got the 400 HP 3.5 Liter Ecoboost with enough torque to pull a fairly heavy trailer, just in case we might decide to rent one for camping nearby.
        Btw: since that truck is a bit biggish and – in town – thirsty for just going to mail a few letters, e.g., we will get an EV. We’ve already ordered the new Chevy Bolt EUV and are waiting for it to be delivered. The truck will then be for heavy loads and/or long distances. Talking of fuel consumption: I’m really happy with the truck. Our average on that long trip was just 22.5 mpg, and the best was more than 25 mpg!

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  45. Wow, what an update! Glad all is well with you and best of luck with your new “temporary” home. I actually had a home is a 55+ and loved all the activities, however, the itch to travel will never be satisfied. I am sure you will come up with a happy solution to satisfy both the urges. We have been looking all this year for a replacement RV for us (we sold ours in Feb 2021) and it has been so hard. Still looking. We were stuck (for the most part) this summer in Lake Havasu and the heat is brutal. Cannot wait to hear more about your new home. Best of Luck.

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    1. Nice to hear from you Jana and congratulations on all your new happenings. I’m afraid we’ll be stuck in Phoenix next summer and will figure out how to make the most of it. We lived in Las Vegas years ago so a desert summer won’t be new to us. I know that itch to travel and I expect the next year without the RV will be a challenge, but hopefully it’s only temporary. Hope you find a new RV so you can escape Havasu next summer. 😊

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  46. I’m so glad to see you in the blogosphere, Ingrid! The lyrics to the song match your mood and changes in your life. I’m glad you could connect with Sunday Stills and I’m honored you took inspiration in this challenge. Although I’m a little sad to read that your RV lifestyle is over (for now) 8 years was a great run and you and Al made the most of it. We never thought we would leave Sacramento and its proximity to windsurfing, or my ability to teach at a university 5 minutes from home, but it was time for us to move on and retire. With our continuous building slow-downs and projects, change happens here every day! We love it here and I know you will find the perfect house (if you haven’t already) that will open wonderful new pages for your next chapter!

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    1. We did have a great run at full-time RVing, but it’s time for a change. We did buy a house in April on the west side of the valley in a 55+ community. After living in RV Parks, I “think” we can handle neighbors. We were leaning toward acreage or at least an oversized lot, so the house we bought was a surprise to everyone including ourselves 🥴 Once we sell the 5th wheel and settle into the house, we’ll start looking for a small RV of some sort. Baby steps for now!

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  47. Very interesting post…Dennis and I haven’t traveled in the Hiker for 4 years. Den had a pacemaker put in and a pre-cancerous growth removed from his colon. We both also had Covid after Xmas and I was sicker than I have ever been.Yep, the only thing we can be sure of is that things will change. So, this Winter, we are headed to Florida for 3 months to explore the housing…We have gravitated toward Florida since Kelly was born, and like the governor there and his policies. I am excited about this, as Den will turn 80 next April, and we are becoming “short timers”…Remember, “It’s not where you are, it’s who you’re with”..Keep in touch!!!!

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    1. Yes Donna, I know how frustrating your last 4 years have been via your FB posts … which are usually so funny … keep’m coming. If our children didn’t live in Phoenix, we may have considered FL or TX. So, I totally get why you’d gravitate toward FL. Health issues are the worst and it’s just one of a long list of reasons that it’s time for us to come off the road full-time. We went to Treelands last Friday night for a fish fry – were your ears ringing? 😁

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  48. I guess these changes are called life. Funny how we went through a similar experience…just bought a house in town. Never thought we will be able to replace life on a farm with a city street. We’ll see how that goes! Enjoy the next chapter until it’s time to switch up again.

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    1. Interesting that you too bought in town instead of the country. I’m still questioning whether we did the right thing, but like you said, we’ll enjoy it until it’s time to switch it up again.

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      2. Smaller home near neighbors might be better for part-time RVing anyway.. Bet the place feels like a palace after living in an RV for so long. Going back to what we once had, in terms of a home, does not sound nearly as interesting. Years ago I was tempting to just look at what people were buying after retirement and buy the same, despite my age, figuring I’d end up there anyway:)

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        1. We bought a small home (1500 sq.ft.) 2/2 so it still feels small and not overwhelming. Part of our decision making was to find something we’d be happy to live in together but also individually. Yes, we’re at an age where we need to talk about all aspects of life, the good and the bad, unfortunately.

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  49. Good morning, Ingrid,
    I literally raced through the paragraphs regarding your CT scan hoping for a good outcome. Thankfully, it turned out well. Also hoping for a fantastic outcome with the changes ahead. As much as we love the RV lifestyle, we need a home where we can rest, recoup, and reconnect. I’m certain you’ll settle in nicely and still have a thirst for the road…and scenes to capture. Looking forward to hearing how it goes. BTW, we had some divine Blueberry Bear Claws in Montana. Joe

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    1. Ah, yum … those blueberry bear claws sound scrumptious. I’ve been baking a bunch of different things with all the blueberries and am grateful for the use of sister-in-laws extra freezer. Hopefully we’ll have treats left for the long drive home.
      Thank you for your concern regarding my health … stress doesn’t do me any favors. That and too much of a good thing (dare I say, baked goods)!😋

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    1. Yes, lots of news and changes, but hopefully, this next chapter will be equally as fun as this last chapter, although very different. Time will tell how it all plays out. 😁

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  52. Let the new chapter begin! Exciting and a little melancholy at the same time. As you know, we went through the same transition a couple of years ago and could not be happier! Looking forward to reading about your future adventures!

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    1. Yep, you guys are a couple of years ahead of us on the transition. We ended up buying a place we NEVER in a million years thought we would. So very unlike anything we thought we wanted. Fingers crossed, we like it. I’m still a little apprehensive about living in a 55+ planned community with very little property. 🤞 I guess time will tell whether or not we made the right decision.

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  53. Ingrid, wishing you and Al much happiness in your new home! I’m sure it will be hard to say goodbye to the RV. When you get the urge to travel again there are always places to rent. Good luck in your next chapter! Glad your trip to the emergency room ended well.

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  54. Ah. Your peaceful, contemplative photos matched your prose perfectly. Wishing you all the best as you embark on your newest adventure.

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  55. Loved your blog today. Looking forward to you coming back to Phoenix. Your home is cool and comfortable. Your trees look great. All is well. Be safe. Love, Darla & Bill

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    1. It sure is comforting knowing our house is being looked after. I’m sure our trees are loving the monsoon weather. See you soon! ❤

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  56. We made the transition to a stick house to have a good place to stay in the cold Canadian shoulder season just before the pandemic hit. Our little stick house turned out to be a major blessing when my husband had a minor stroke and we suddenly had to deal with not being able to travel south for the winter due to an inability to get travel health insurance. We were doing fine through our first winter when the pandemic started and we were so blessed to be in a safe warm place while that was going on. We still have our travel trailer and it is slowly falling apart sitting in our driveway. We are moving towards selling it and buying a smaller one that can let us do local camping but for now it’s a fine guest house. My best wishes for you in your new setting.

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    1. I do remember you sharing your story with me and glad the house turned into a blessing. Once we settle into the house and get the 5th sold, like you, we’ll start looking at small RV’s that are more nibble. We ended up canceling our MN north shore and MI UP excursions this summer but am still hopeful for a future visit. I have not forgotten about those unique sites near Thunder Bay that you recommended. BTW, my brother-in-law is heading to Ontario tomorrow for a week of fishing … if he makes it across the border at Grand Portage.

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  57. Wow, that’s a big decision, Ingrid. I suppose it’ll be a bit difficult living in a sticks and bricks home again. Be well!

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  58. I think this is another exciting time for you. Living the RV lifestyle teaches you to live in the moment and we have all experienced some tragic and worrying moments over the past 16 months. Embrace what the future holds, good luck on your new adventures and thank you for your blogs

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    1. There’s a part of me that is super excited to move into a home again, yet another part is somewhat sad. There are still so many places I’d love to visit with the RV, but life right now is taking us in another direction. Fingers crossed, this isn’t the end of RVing for us … just a bump in the road.

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    2. Life will not wait for you. The old things have to go, to make room for new things to fit in and come into your life.

      I suspect you will have plenty to blog about in this next chapter in your journey of life. Can’t wait to hear more about it!

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      1. New chapters! There’s a time and stage in life for everything. Not sure how things will look in the next year or two, but we’ll do our best to have fun along the way.

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  59. oh I am so sorry to hear you are selling the RV but as you said there are still plenty to do. I look forward to reading about your adventures and the changes. I have enjoyed reading yours.

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