Fall, my favorite time of the year. Maybe it’s because I’m from the Northeast, but there’s just something magical about fall. The changing colors, the smell of wood smoke in the crisp air, and the simple joy of apple picking always bring a sense of nostalgia and joy.

When it comes to camping, fall is hands-down my favorite season too. The bugs have disappeared, the air is perfect for hiking, and campgrounds feel calm and quiet again now that school’s back in session. It’s the season of slow mornings and cozy evenings, crockpot dinners like chili simmering all day, campfires and outdoor movie nights snuggled under blankets, and quiet nights inside the RV with the fireplace on and a good book in hand.

And let’s not forget one of the best parts of fall camping, the celebrations! Many campgrounds host Halloween events throughout October, which makes it extra fun for families. I still remember one year when we were on the road and celebrated Halloween five different times! The kids thought it was the best thing ever.

As the days get cooler and the leaves start to change, here are a few of my favorite ways to make the most of this cozy, colorful season on the road:

Take a scenic leaf-peeping drive

Fall is the perfect time to explore winding backroads and watch the trees transform into vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange. Pack a thermos of cider and your camera for the ride.

Visit a local orchard or pumpkin patch

Many farms near campgrounds offer apple picking, hayrides, and corn mazes, the kind of wholesome fall fun that makes for lasting family memories.

Host a campground chili cook-off or potluck

Invite nearby campers to bring their favorite crockpot dish. It’s an easy, delicious way to make new friends and share recipes around the fire.

Have a campfire movie night

Set up a projector and a white sheet for an outdoor theater experience under the stars. Don’t forget the s’mores and cozy blankets!

Go hiking or biking

Cooler temperatures make for perfect trail adventures. Look for paths with scenic overlooks or waterfalls surrounded by colorful foliage.

Try fall crafts with the kids

Gather leaves and pinecones to make garlands, paint pumpkins, or start nature journals, fun projects that double as roadschooling lessons.

Celebrate Halloween on the road

Many campgrounds host trick-or-treating, site-decorating contests, and costume parades. Even if you’re far from home, you can still join in the spooky fun.

Curl up with a good book

When the day winds down, there’s nothing better than wrapping up in a blanket by the fire (or the RV fireplace) with a cozy fall read. A heartwarming novel or a good mystery pairs perfectly with the season. Check out my fall picks here.

📍 Worth the Stop

If you find yourself in upstate New York this fall, make sure to stop by Liberty Ridge Farm, one of our family’s favorite places for classic fall fun!

From the corn maze and pedal carts to the jumping pillows and more than 50 kid-friendly activities, it’s the perfect spot to let the kids run wild (and wear themselves out!). It’s been a couple of years since we last visited, and they’ve added even more attractions, making it even better than before. Be sure to grab a pumpkin and some apple cider donuts on your way out to top off your perfect fall day.

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

We just hit the road again after being stationary all summer, and our current campground has especially high water pressure, a good reminder for everyone: always use a water pressure regulator!

This small, inexpensive tool helps prevent campground water from damaging your RV’s plumbing system, fittings, and appliances. It’s one of those essentials you don’t want to travel without. You can grab the one we use here.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

Check out this tablet/snack holder I snagged on Prime Day and don’t worry, it’s still on sale! I plan to use it for my Kindle Scribe and, of course, all my favorite roadtrip snacks!

📚 What I’m Reading

I’ve read quite a few books since I last shared an update, but here are a few recent releases worth mentioning!

Tourist Season by Brynne Weaver
This dark romance follows two serial killers whose paths intertwine in unexpected ways. What starts as a cat-and-mouse chase turns into a twisted love story between two people who should be enemies but can’t resist each other. I gave this one ⭐⭐⭐⭐ not for everyone, but if you like morally gray characters and dark tension, it’s worth the read.

The Intruder by Freida McFadden
I’m usually a huge fan of Freida’s fast-paced psychological thrillers, but this one fell a bit flat for me. It follows a woman who has an unexpected guest during a storm. While it has her signature short chapters and twists, it lacks some of the shock and suspense of her earlier books. Still a solid read, but not my favorite from her collection.

Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose
This is my current read and definitely not my usual pick! Set in a zombie apocalypse, the story follows a woman navigating life, loss, and the absurdity of modern dating when civilization has crumbled. It’s part romance and part dark comedy. I picked it up because it felt like the perfect October read, and so far, I’m hooked.

📬 Until Next Time…

Thanks for joining me for another edition of Reading & Roadtrips! I hope it’s inspired you to explore new places and carve out time for a good book.

• Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes travel moments, RV life inspiration, and book recommendations.

• Shop my curated book picks, your next favorite read might be waiting there!

• Help grow our community by sharing this newsletter with a friend who loves exploring and reading, too!

I just spent the weekend at the Hershey RV Show, the largest RV show in America, and it was fantastic! I was there representing my business, Fireside RV Rental, and it was so energizing to reconnect with long-time partners while meeting so many new faces in the RV industry.

For those who don’t know, Fireside RV Rental is an RV rental management franchise with 70 locations across the U.S. and over 500 units under management. Whether you’re looking to try before you buy by renting an RV, earn passive income by renting out your RV, or even launch your own RV rental business.

My husband and I first joined Fireside in 2019 when we opened a franchise in upstate NY. We grew that business to 20 units and six-figure revenue before stepping into the corporate side of Fireside in 2022. Just last week we celebrated our 6-year anniversary on September 10!

Let’s get back to the RV Show…there were so many amazing vendors this year, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorites with you!

Harvest Hosts

If you haven’t checked out Harvest Hosts, it’s one of the best memberships for unique overnight RV stays. With an annual membership, you can enjoy free one-night stays at wineries, breweries, farms, and museums across the country. These are self-contained, boondocking-style spots that give you unforgettable experiences. Harvest Hosts recently acquired Escapees, which means members also now have access to meetups, online training, and more! Get 15% off here.

Liquified

Since my husband is an RV tech, he’s pretty particular about tank treatments and Liquified is hands down his favorite. We even use it in our Fireside rental units. The owners are down-to-earth, and the product actually works. If you want to try it out, here’s a discount: Shop Liquified Use code CAPITAL15 to get 15% off your order!

Grand Design

We’re big fans of Grand Design RVs, our last three rigs have all been theirs (a Reflection, Solitude S-Class, and a Solitude). The quality is unbeatable, and I was blown away by the new floorplans released at Hershey. They now feature extra-large living areas with L-shaped couches, functional kitchens with spice racks, hampers, and even electronic drawers. My favorite model was the new Less Junk, More Journey design with a side patio and huge under-storage big enough for e-bikes. So many thoughtful touches for full time RVers.

Blaupunkt

E-bikes are one of my favorite RV accessories, but my current Lectric bike is so heavy to lift in and out of the camper. That’s why I was excited to connect with Blaupunkt at the show. Their bikes use standard-size tires (so they fit our bike rack), are lightweight, and the battery can be removed to make them even easier to handle. They fold down, and here’s the best part, there’s a little wheel on the bottom so you can roll it when folded. Game changer! Fun fact: Blaupunkt is also known for their speakers, and they even have a Bluetooth speaker designed to fit right in your bike’s water bottle holder.

📍 Worth the Stop

We’re excited that Sunshine Key is part of the Thousand Trails collection, and as members we can stay here for just $20 a night! This spot is truly a gem for families. There’s a fishing pier and marina where, on our last visit, we spotted sharks, manatees, and stingrays swimming by. Evenings are full of fun with outdoor movie nights, games of cornhole, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making Sunshine Key well worth the stop on your RV travels! Become a Thousand Trails member and get $155 off of your camping pass here.

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

Our tip this week is brought to you by Mike Sokol from RV Electricity, who we had the chance to meet at the show. Mike emphasized the importance of keeping your connectors and contacts clean to prevent issues caused by dirt, corrosion, and oxidation. These can all degrade connections, create resistance, and ultimately lead to overheating. He recommends using a contact cleaner like DeoxIT D-5, giving your connections a light spritz at least once a season or more frequently if you camp in tough conditions. This simple step is beneficial not only for your RV’s shore power cords but also for the campground pedestals and receptacles, which can often have loose or worn contacts. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your RV’s electrical system safe and reliable.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

Upgrading your camper mattress is essential. After trying two different options, we found that the Coolvie mattress has been the best fit, affordable, firm, and still holding up great after over a year of use.

📚 What I’m Reading

I took a break from my thriller streak to dive into First Time Caller by B.K. Borison. In this romance, a woman’s 12-year-old daughter calls into a radio show seeking dating advice for her mom, and the episode goes viral, leading her to co-host the show in search of a love match. A sweet, easy read with some surprisingly heartfelt moments about relationships. The sequel, And Now Back to You, is set to release in Feb 2026.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

While cleaning my RV today, I found myself feeling grateful for some of the features it has; like a central vac system, built-in dishwasher, and washer/dryer. It made me think back to when we first started RVing 17 years ago. Back then, it was just the two of us in a 23 ft tow-behind we used for a few weekend camping trips each year. Fast forward to today, and we’re a family of five living full-time in a 42 ft fifth wheel.

Our needs have changed so much over the years, and so have the features we look for. That’s the thing about RV ownership, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The “right” RV depends on your season of life, how you plan to use it, and what comforts matter most to you.

If you’re shopping for your first (or next) RV, here are some things to consider:

Start with How You’ll Use It

• Full-time living: Look for 4-season insulation, larger tanks, washer/dryer hookups, residential fridge, solar/inverter setup, lots of cupboards for storage.

• Weekend/seasonal trips: Keep it simple; lighter weight, easier setup, smaller tanks. Extras like an outdoor kitchen, power tongue jack, and auto-leveling are nice to haves.

Who’s Traveling?

• Adults only: Couples’ coaches with rear living and extra bedroom storage.

• Little kids: Bunkhouse with doors for naps, room for a pack ’n play, tub/shower combo, dinette.

• Teens: Separate bunk room with doors, USB ports, storage, maybe a half bath.

Towable or Drivable?

• Towable (travel trailer, 5th wheel, toy hauler)

  • Pros: More space per dollar, simpler drivetrain, lower maintenance

  • Cons: Requires the right tow vehicle, hitching/unhitching learning curve

• Drivable (Class A, B, C)

  • Pros: Easy setup, passengers can ride inside, tow a small car

  • Cons: higher insurance/maintenance costs, fewer options for family floor plans.

Budget

• Purchase: RV price, taxes, hitch, brake controller

• Setup gear: Surge protector, sewer kit, hoses, wheel chocks, TPMS, backup camera (optional)

• Operating costs: Insurance, storage, campground fees, fuel, maintenance

• Upgrades over time: Second A/C, solar, lithium batteries, slide toppers, bike racks

Try Before You Buy

Before making the leap, it’s a smart idea to rent a similar floor plan for a weekend. This gives you a real-world feel for the space and helps you figure out what you truly love and what doesn’t work for your family before making a big investment. Another step that’s worth every penny is hiring a certified RV technician or inspector for a pre-purchase inspection, whether you’re buying new or used. Even brand-new RVs can leave the factory with issues like plumbing leaks, misaligned slides, or faulty seals, while used models may hide costly problems such as roof damage or soft floors. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront can save you thousands in repairs later and gives you peace of mind that your RV is road-ready.

📍 Worth the Stop

We’re getting ready to head to the Hershey RV Show in Hershey, PA from 11/10–11/14 to network for our business, Fireside RV Rental. Have you ever been? It’s one of the largest RV shows in the country, featuring the newest floorplans, tons of vendors, and enough to keep you busy for a couple of days. If you can’t make it this year, definitely put it on your calendar for next year! And while you’re in the area, don’t miss Hershey’s Chocolate World for a tour of the factory and the freshest candy you’ll ever taste.

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

Backing into a campsite can often be the most stressful part of the day, especially after hours on the road. To make it easier, try to arrive before dark. I also take the kids and dogs out of the truck so my husband can focus on backing in and setting up without interruptions.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

The cute and cozy coloring books are perfect for both kids and moms, fun to enjoy together while listening to an audiobook, or for keeping little hands busy coloring while you read aloud during school time. This Spooky Cozy one is perfect for the upcoming fall season.

📚 What I’m Reading

Last week I finished Someone Knows by Vi Keeland is a gripping thriller about a professor who begins receiving chapters from a student’s manuscript, chapters that mirror the darkest secrets of her own past. Drawn back to her hometown, she must confront old ghosts while uncovering who is behind the mysterious pages. It’s worth the read! Get it for FREE on Kindle Unlimited.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

We’re gearing up for the Hershey RV Show, but this time we’ll be leaving our camper behind and staying in a hotel. Honestly? I’m already dreading the packing! I’ve grown so used to having everything with me when we travel. That’s one of the many reasons I’ll always prefer RV trips over hotels (well… unless we’re talking about an all-inclusive in the Caribbean 😉). Here’s why:

Convenience

With an RV, you have your kitchen, bathroom, and all your belongings right there with you. No need to argue with kids at restaurants, just cook onsite. Naptime? Bathroom break? Lunch on the go? The RV is always accessible, making travel days and family life so much easier.

Privacy

It might surprise you, but RVs often offer more privacy than hotels. Many family-friendly RVs come with bunkhouses that have doors, so kids can sleep while adults relax in the living space. Some even have two exterior doors, offering separate access to the master bedroom or bathroom.

Flexibility

One of the best parts of RV travel is the flexibility it gives you. Want to spend the entire day relaxing at the campground? You can. Prefer to use your RV as a cozy home base while you explore the surrounding area? That works too. And if you feel like taking a last-minute detour, maybe you spot a quirky roadside attraction, a scenic byway, or hear about a can’t-miss local festivalyo, u have the freedom to just go. No canceling hotel bookings or worrying about being too far from your room. With your home on wheels, you decide where the road takes you and how long you want to stay.

The Outdoors

RV travel naturally nudges you outside. Whether it’s hiking, biking, fishing, or evenings by the campfire, you’re making memories in nature instead of staring at a hotel TV. Kids won’t remember their best day of screen time, but they will remember roasting marshmallows under the stars.

Community

One of the most special parts of RV camping is the community you find along the way. At hotels, it’s rare for kids to make friends beyond a quick “hello” in the lobby. But at campgrounds, friendships spark naturally—kids meet at the pool, ride bikes together, or play for hours on the playground. Meanwhile, parents gather around the campfire, swap stories, and share travel tips. There’s a spirit of kindness and helpfulness that’s hard to match—neighbors lend tools, offer advice, or just stop by to say hi. It’s a kind of connection that turns strangers into friends, and it’s truly one of the best parts of RV life.

The Memories

Our RV vacations have given us experiences that hotels simply can’t match. Life on the road, in the great outdoors, has brought us closer as a family and left us with memories that are anything but cookie-cutter.

📍 Worth the Stop

If you’re near South Florida, Lion Country Safari is a must-visit for families! Stay at the Lion Country KOA next door and you can actually hear the lions roaring from your campsite, such a cool experience. The safari itself is packed with fun: feed giraffes, splash around at the water park, drive through the safari to see animals up close, and let the kids explore the petting zoo. You can easily spend a full day (or even two!) enjoying everything this spot has to offer.

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

Right now I’m mapping out our upcoming adventures, and my go-to tool is RV Trip Wizard, it makes planning routes and finding the best stops so much easier.

Want to see exactly how I plan my trips? Inside the RV Moms Club, you’ll get access to my detailed monthly itineraries, plus a community of other RV moms who “get it.” It’s a space to share tips, swap ideas, and make life on the road a little easier (and a lot more fun!).

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

I’ve been exploring some new hobbies lately, and it’s amazing how much extra time you have when you’re not tied down to a house, mowing the lawn, cleaning 2,000 sq. ft., or tackling endless projects. I recently tried diamond art, and it’s been so relaxing, and I love how the pieces turn out! It’s the perfect mindless activity to do while listening to an audiobook. Plus, these bookmark designs are just the cutest.

📚 What I’m Reading

I almost saved Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson for fall since it opens with the main character being attacked on Halloween, but I’m glad I didn’t wait—it was such a great read! Aside from the opening scene, Halloween barely factors into the story. The attack leaves the main character with a brain injury and just one week to live, pushing her to spend those final days trying to solve her own murder. The plot is filled with twists and a refreshingly unique storyline that kept me hooked the entire way through.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Homeschool kicks off for us in just a couple of weeks! Since we’re from New York, I still stick with the traditional schedule of starting after Labor Day. I’ve been busy prepping and shopping for curriculum, and this year feels extra different, I’ll have one in elementary school, one in middle school, and one starting high school.

On top of that, I’ve been learning the new regulations and finishing up our IHIP for NYS. Last year we relied heavily on online programs, but I didn’t love it, so I decided to shake things up this year with a new mix of resources. I’ll give you a rundown of what we’ll be using (and what we’ve tried in the past).

Outside of school prep, life is giving me all the fall vibes lately, I picked up a new pair of jeans on a recent shopping trip, soccer season has officially kicked off, and the nights are starting to get cooler. I can feel fall in the air, and I’m so excited because it’s my favorite season!

Anyway, back to homeschool prep! Here are some of the curriculums we’ve used over the years, along with what worked, what didn’t, and what we’re trying this year.

IXL

This one is fully online and very easy to use. I liked that there was an app (super handy for my 1st grader at the time), but I wasn’t a fan of the grading system. If a child got a problem wrong, it just kept generating more and more questions, which led to frustration when they didn’t understand something right away. My older kids often skipped the instructional videos and just tried to push through the work, which led them to not actually learning the material.

BookShark

I loved that this program was literature-based, with lots of reading and workbooks. It also worked well for teaching science and social studies to multiple kids together, while math and language arts stayed grade-specific. This year, I’m using it for history with my 9th grader. He’s not a big reader, but since he enjoys history, I think this will be a good way to combine the two.

The Good and the Beautiful

We used this last year for science and it was a big hit. The unit studies are designed so kids of different grade levels can study the same topic together but with age-appropriate workbooks, perfect for families like mine with multiple kids. I let each of my youngest pick two units this year, so we’ll be diving into marine biology, paleontology, ecosystems, and motion & simple machines. We’re also switching to The Good and the Beautiful for math and language arts for my 2nd and 7th grader this year.

Time4Learning

This was the very first program we tried when we started homeschooling. I liked that it was online but also offered printable worksheets. The kids, however, didn’t enjoy the videos, so it was hard to keep them engaged. It is very affordable though, and I know many families who love it, it just wasn’t the best fit for us.

Along with the basics, we’ve got some fun extras planned this year too. We’ll be taking a history field trip to Colonial Williamsburg this fall, my youngest wanted to learn the ukulele so we bought one and will be working on that for music, and my 9th grader, who’s into dirt bikes and fixing things, will be taking an online course on 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines. My daughter, who loves reading and is showing an interest in writing, will be taking a creative writing class on Outschool (last year she did one on cosmetology). That’s one of the things I love most about homeschooling, we can really cater their education to their individual interests.

📍 Worth the Stop

On my list for a future stop is The Dollar Book Swap in Dayton, Ohio, a massive warehouse where every book is just $1.25. Perfect for stocking up on homeschool reads, road trip books for the kids, or adding to your campground reading stash without breaking the budget. A book lover’s dream!

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

I came across a clever shoe organization hack on Facebook this week and just had to share! Shoes always seem to pile up by the RV door (and it drives me crazy). I even read that in feng shui it’s considered bad energy, trapping negative vibes or blocking good ones from coming in. Either way, I’m excited to try this out.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

I picked up this cute bookish shirt that says “one more chapter” — which pretty much sums up my nightly reading routine. I always tell myself I’ll stop after just one more chapter… and then suddenly it’s way past bedtime. I love the color, and it’s so comfy for lounging around the campground with a good book in hand.

📚 What I’m Reading

This week I picked up Ruth Run at the bookstore, it caught my eye and sounded intriguing. The story follows a girl who learns to rob banks through hacking, only to end up on the government’s radar and on the run. It was a great read overall, though I have to admit I was a little disappointed with the ending. It felt like there were some loose ends… maybe it’s being set up for a sequel?

Next on my list is Not Quite Dead Yet. I’ve definitely been on a thriller streak lately, they keep me guessing, while the romance reads have started to feel a little too predictable.

🏕️ Campground Update

Another offer went in this week, could this be the one? 🤞 In the RV Park mastermind I’m part of, I learned it can take up to 100 deals before you land your first park. We’re only on #8, so it looks like we may still have a journey ahead.

It actually reminded me of what we tell our franchisees at Fireside RV Rental: it often takes 100 leads to get 1 person signed up for RV rental management. Maybe it’s just a universal “law of 100”?

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

As I was looking back through photos recently, I took a little trip down memory lane. Almost a year ago, we set out on our full-time RVing adventure. While there have certainly been ups and downs, I’ve cherished every mile traveled, every state explored, and the countless memories we’ve made along the way.

One of our favorite stops was exploring Utah, as it was unlike anything we had ever seen before, being from the East Coast. We spent two incredible weeks there and honestly, we could have easily stayed longer. “Spectacular” doesn’t even begin to describe it! Pictures can’t do it justice; it’s something you have to experience firsthand, which is why I’m sharing my insights and highlights of our adventure so you can use those to plan your trip there.

Our Utah adventure centered on two main stops: Moab and Bryce Canyon, but if I could do it over again, I’d definitely carve out a few days just for Zion National Park instead of squeezing it into a quick day trip from Bryce.

Moab was our first stop, and we stayed at Sun Outdoors Cayonlands Gateway, which turned out to be the perfect base camp, with the added bonus of beautiful views and heated pool onsite. From there, we explored Arches National Park (tip: timed-entry tickets are required, so plan ahead!). Pack plenty of water and a lunch, you’ll want the whole day to wander the trails, admire the jaw-dropping arches, and let the kids scramble over the rocks. We also explored Canyonlands National Park, where the sweeping views were breathtaking… and a little nerve-wracking if you have younger kids, thanks to some serious drop-offs.

One of the highlightsin Utah here was a splurge-worthy guided UTV tour to Hell’s Revenge. My husband drove, and let’s just say it was intense. We stopped at multiple lookout points, and our guide’s stories and insights made it even more memorable. Absolutely worth it!

From Moab, we headed to Ruby’s Inn Campground near Bryce Canyon. Make sure to go grocery shopping before you head here as options are limited. Insider tip: campground guests can use the pool, hot tub, and fitness center at the hotel next door (also owned by them). From here, we took a day trip into Bryce Canyon National Park, tackling a roughly 5-mile hike. The climb back up was steep, bring water and a hiking stick, but the otherworldly views made it my favorite national park visit ever.

We also treated ourselves to another guided tour this time to Peek-a-Boo slot canyon in Kanab, Utah with the chance to try sandboarding. Next time, I’ve got my sights set on rappelling through a slot canyon, maybe once the kids are a bit older.

Our final Utah outing was a day trip to Zion National Park, but it was a longer drive than we expected (about 2 hours). Without shuttle reservations, we missed out on some of the park’s most popular hikes. Zion is on our “must-return” list, next time with better planning.

We only missed one of Utah’s “Big Five” national parks, Capitol Reef, which you could easily add to your itinerary if you’re exploring the area.

📍 Worth the Stop

Part museum, part gift shop, Moqui Cave is a sandstone grotto turned roadside attraction. Inside, you’ll find glowing fluorescent rocks, Native American artifacts, and Old West memorabilia. The gift shop has everything from Southwestern jewelry to fossils, so it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir while stretching your legs.

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

Before packing up and bringing in your slides, be sure to vacuum or sweep under your slide-outs, small items like Legos, pebbles, or pet hair can get caught and scratch your floors or damage the slide mechanism.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

I used to be a total subscription box junkie, I even created my own camping-themed one as part of a past business venture. But the one I just can’t give up is FabFitFun. It’s a seasonal box, which makes it perfect for life on the road since you only need to update your address a few times a year. I love having the annual subscription—not only does it save you money, but you also get to fully customize your box. From hair care and makeup to home goods, every item is practical and won’t clutter up your limited space. Get $20 off your subscription with my referral link https://share.fabfitfun.com/x/tR2YuP

📚 What I’m Reading

I just finished the new release She Didn't See That Coming by Shari Lapena, a missing persons case that quickly spirals into a homicide investigation, a classic whodunit with a twist I didn’t see coming. Set in Albany, NY, where I’m currently staying, it was especially fun to read (though I really hope it’s not based on a true story!).

🏕️ Campground Update

We checked out a property today and have another site visit lined up this week, fingers crossed for good news soon! For me, it’s all about consistent action. Every day, I make it a priority to browse BizBuySell, LoopNet, and Crexi to scout out new listings and opportunities.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Growing up in Eastern New York, I had a pretty negative view of state campgrounds. Most in our area were outdated, couldn’t accommodate larger RVs, and worst of all offered no hookups. No water. No electric. Nothing.

When we owned our RV rental business, we’d often see renters booking sites at local state parks, and I never understood it. Why rent an RV just to park it somewhere you can’t even use the shower or A/C? To me, it felt like glorified tent camping.

That was the image I had whenever I heard the words "state campground."

But that perspective has completely changed.

We’ve now traveled to state parks all across the country, and I’ve learned that not all state campgrounds are created equal. In fact, even in New York, especially as you head west, you’ll find parks that are not only beautiful, but also RV-friendly, with spacious sites and full hookups.

The benefits of state campgrounds? They often come with lower nightly rates, peaceful settings, fewer crowds, and easy access to nature. Some even offer full hookups and modern amenities.

If you haven’t given state parks a chance lately, you might be surprised. Below, I’m sharing some of our favorite state campgrounds that are worth adding to your travel list. Just be sure to book early because of the affordable rates, these parks tend to fill up fast. Bonus tip: If you’re a resident of the state, you may get a discount or access to extended booking windows.

Letchworth State Park – New York

Often called the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is a must-visit, especially in the fall when the foliage is at peak. The park features stunning waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and miles of hiking trails that wind through gorges and forests. It's high on our list for autumn adventures and is perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and families.

Big Bone Lick State Park – Kentucky

History meets nature at Big Bone Lick. This unique park offers a glimpse into prehistoric times with fossil displays and bison herds, plus it’s conveniently located just 30 minutes from The Ark Encounter.

Nolin Lake State Park – Kentucky

If you're visiting Mammoth Cave National Park, this is a fantastic campground option nearby. Nolin Lake offers spacious campsites (great for RVs!) and a peaceful lakeside setting. Enjoy boating, swimming, hiking and then wind down with a campfire under the stars. This one makes a great home base for adventure and relaxation.

West Branch State – Ohio

Tucked away in northeastern Ohio, West Branch State Park offers wooded, full-hookup paved sites that are perfect for RVers looking for comfort and nature. The campground is peaceful with plenty of tree cover, making it a great spot to unwind. In the fall, you won’t want to miss the Halloween weekend celebration, which includes trick-or-treating and fun activities for the whole family.

Anastasia State Park – Florida

On our bucket list for good reason! This stunning coastal park near St. Augustine offers lush, wooded campsites, beautiful beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere. It's known for its natural beauty and excellent bird watching. The only catch? It’s incredibly hard to snag a reservation so plan ahead or watch for last-minute cancellations!

Fort McAllister State Park – Georgia

A hidden gem outside of Savannah, Fort McAllister blends history, nature, and family fun. We loved exploring the preserved Civil War fort and watching the kids run wild on the huge playground. With wooded campsites, fishing opportunities, an outdoor fitness trail, geocaching, and even armadillo sightings, this park made for a fantastic homeschool field trip and nature day. Highly recommended!

📍 Worth the Stop

I’ve already shared some of our favorite state park stops, but let me recommend one more place to add to your bucket list.

While going through photos to jog my memory, I came across snapshots from our trip to James Island County Park in South Carolina. During that stay, we took a little day trip south to Patriots Point in Charleston, a local recommendation that did not disappoint.

We spent the entire day exploring historic naval ships, including a massive aircraft carrier that completely wowed the kids. For lunch, we wandered off-site to a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant where the kids' meals were served on frisbees, a small detail they loved and still talk about four years later!

🚐 RV Tip of the Week

Maybe not so much a tip, but definitely an important reminder: Don’t forget to shut off your A/C units and clean those air filters!

It’s been a hot summer, and those RV air conditioners have been working overtime. I did mine this week when the temps finally cooled down for a day, and I couldn’t believe how dirty they were! A quick rinse made a big difference.

Take a few minutes to check yours, regular maintenance like this keeps your A/C running efficiently and can help extend its lifespan. Your future self (and your RV) will thank you!

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Favs

Just because you're camping doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style for comfort. With this loungewear set from Amazon, you can have both! You no longer have to worry about hanging in your pajamas while you’re reading a book by the fire or strolling the campground with the dogs (yes, even with a bag of dog poop in hand), this loungewear will keep you cozy and cute!

📚 What I’m Reading

This week, I completed 2 great thrillers, The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware (did you hear it’s being adapted into a Netflix series this fall?) I followed it up with the sequel, The Woman in Suite 11, and couldn’t put either down. The first book introduces Lo, a travel journalist who finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time while on assignment aboard a luxurious cruise ship. The sequel picks up ten years later, when ghosts from her past resurface in chilling ways. If you love twisty thrillers add these to your TBR!

🏕️ Campground Update

I decided to bring this section back to the newsletter to help keep myself accountable, because I truly believe that small steps lead to big action.

For those who may not know, one of the reasons our family is full-time RVing is because we’re on the hunt for a campground to purchase. It’s a big dream of ours to find a place where we can live, work, and welcome other families on their own adventures.

Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit discouraged that we haven’t found the right one yet. But one of my mentors recently reminded me, you have to put in the reps. And they’re right.

In the past three months, we’ve made three offers on different campgrounds. None have been accepted, but just being in the game is a big win. Each offer teaches us more about researching deals, running numbers, and refining what we’re looking for.

To keep leveling up, I joined the RV Park Blueprint program with Heather Blankenship to sharpen my skills and stay focused on getting our first park under contract.

If you happen to hear of a park for sale that would be a good fit for an owner-operator family of five, I’d love to hear about it. This dream is still alive and we’re taking the steps to make it a reality.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Summer is flying by, and I’m already starting to think ahead to our next stops. We’ll be at our current campsite until mid-October, but after that, it’s time to hit the road again. In early November, I have a scheduled event in Florida for my business, Fireside RV Rental, our annual retreat with our franchisees, so we have about three weeks to take our time and explore on the way down.

One place that’s been on my must-visit list for a while is Williamsburg, Virginia. It’s packed with history, and although we’ve driven past it on so many trips, this time we’re finally stopping. I’m also hoping to check off a new state by doing a little detour into Alabama.

One thing that’s very real when it comes to RV life is decision fatigue. With so much freedom and the ability to go almost anywhere, the choices can get overwhelming. Here are a few ways I plan our travels and avoid decision fatigue:

Start with Key Anchor Dates & Events

I begin by looking at our calendar and plugging in any fixed commitments:

• Family visits or birthdays

• Business events (like our Fireside retreat)

• Holidays we want to spend in a specific location

• Conferences, homeschool meetups, or rallies

This gives me natural markers to build the rest of the trip around.

Set a Travel Budget

Next, I map out how far we’re willing to travel and how much we’re comfortable spending on:

• Fuel

• Campgrounds

• Food & activities

• Repairs or maintenance

Traveling slower (with longer stays in one spot) often saves money, which gives us more wiggle room for experiences later on.

Use Memberships to Guide Stops

We get a lot of mileage out of our campground memberships like Thousand Trails and Harvest Hosts I’ll check:

• Where we have coverage or free nights

• Which spots are near our desired route

• Availability during busy times (especially fall/winter in the South)

It’s a great way to save money while discovering unique locations .

Limit the Choices

Instead of looking at every possible stop between Point A and Point B, I’ll narrow it down by region, interest (history, nature, city), or type of experience we want (peaceful, adventurous, educational). Too many choices = overwhelm. A short list keeps it doable and fun.

Leave Room for Flexibility

Even with a loose plan, I build in buffer days. Sometimes a campground ends up being a favorite and we want to stay longer. Other times, we need rest days where we do absolutely nothing but and that’s okay, too.

📚 Books on Board

This weeks read was The Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay a darkly funny thriller about a pair of serial killers who settle down, get married, have a baby, and promise to leave their deadly pasts behind… until, of course, trouble shows up three years later. It gave me major Finlay Donovan vibes with its mix of suspense and humor.

Up next: a Ruth Ware double feature. I’m currently reading The Woman in Cabin 10, gearing up for her brand-new sequel, The Woman in Suite 11. Can’t wait to see where the story goes!

📍 Worth the Stop

Tucked away in the scenic Catskills, Rip Van Winkle Campground is a hidden gem for families. With paddleboats, a refreshing pool, and multiple playgrounds, there’s no shortage of fun for the kids. Nearby, you’ll find charming local attractions like the Saugerties Lighthouse, a short and scenic hike leads you right to it. You can even spend the day kayaking along the peaceful Hudson River. Whether you're visiting in the vibrant summer or the crisp, colorful fall, this spot is well worth the stop.

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

Living in a small space means I can’t keep a huge bookshelf, so my Kindle has become a must-have. I also use Kindle Unlimited, which gives me access to tons of great reads without taking up any space. I rounded up 30 of my favorite Kindle Unlimited books, you can check out the list [here].

This new Kindle comes in the same gorgeous jade color as my Kindle Scribe, which I absolutely love. If you don’t need the note-taking and organizational features, the regular Kindle reader is a perfect (and more affordable) option!

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Yesterday I turned 42 and got to spend the day doing all of my favorite things, shopping and pedicures with my daughter, dinner at my favorite restaurant with my husband, and relaxing outside with a good book (which I finished, of course!).

Just like the New Year, birthdays have a way of making you pause and reflect on what you've accomplished and what you still hope to achieve. Since we're a little over halfway through the year, I decided to revisit the goals I set back in January:

• 📚 Read 72 books – I'm currently at 54!

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Start a monthly family book club – Not yet, but maybe once we settle into our fall homeschool routine.

• 🏋️‍♀️ Lose 20 pounds – Still in progress.

• ⛺ Camp in 3 new states – 1 down, 2 to go.

• 💳 Improve credit score – ✅ Done.

• 🧾 Pay off credit card debt – All but one.

• 🌲 Purchase a campground or property to build on – Still working on it, but making big moves.

As part of my women’s mastermind group, I joined a “100 Goals in 100 Days” challenge on July 7th. My big goal? Get under contract on a campground property within those 100 days. I'm 12 days in and already submitted my first offer. It wasn't accepted but that’s okay. I'm taking massive action, and that’s what matters.

Here are a few tips I’m reminding myself (and now you!) as I push toward big goals:

1. Reflect, Reset, and Refocus

Now’s the perfect time to look at the goals you set earlier this year. Celebrate what you’ve already done and recommit to the ones that matter most.

2. Don’t Chase All the Goals

Pick one to go all in on. The rest can wait. When your focus is scattered, your progress slows.

3. Take Action Daily—Even Small Steps Count

Not every action has to be huge. But forward momentum, even in tiny doses, adds up quickly.

4. Track Your Progress

Nothing feels better than crossing things off a list. Whether it’s books read or offers submitted, seeing the progress keeps you motivated.

If you’re looking for an easy way to stay on track, I highly recommend apps like Book Tracker and Habit Tracker. They’ve helped me stay focused on both my reading goals and personal milestones.

Now I want to hear from you, what’s one goal you’re committing to for the rest of the year? Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to cheer you on!

📚 Books on Board

This week, I wrapped up two books.

Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell is her latest domestic thriller. It features multiple points of view, and while it takes a bit to figure out how everything connects, I really loved how it all came together in the end.

Deep End by Ali Hazelwood completely surprised me, in the best way. I wasn’t sure at first (the first 50 pages were a bit slow), but once it hit its stride, I couldn’t put it down. I devoured it in two days and lost sleep over it... zero regrets. The chemistry between the characters? Absolute fire. If you’re into steamy reads with tension that sizzles off the page, this one’s a must.

By the way, I found a new app I’m loving, PangoBooks. It’s like Poshmark but for books. You can buy gently used books from other readers or list your own. You can even shop my past reads here.

Not sure which book I’ll grab next from my TBR pile, there are so many good ones waiting. Check back next week to see what I end up choosing!

📍 Worth the Stop

I recently came across a post about unusual places to visit, and it reminded me of one of our own quirky road trip stops. While traveling through Oklahoma, we visited the Museum of Osteology, a place filled with real animal and human skeletons. It was definitely one of our more unique homeschool field trips! The kids were fascinated (and a little freaked out) by the human and child bones, but it sparked some great conversations and turned out to be an unforgettable learning experience.

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

Being in an RV, I am always looking for ways to organize, this week, I cleaned out my bathroom cupboard and purchased this hair tool organizer that mounts on the wall, great for making the most out of small spaces.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Last weekend was a whirlwind of 4th of July festivities with our family. It’s moments like these that make me so grateful to be close to our hometown, joining in the traditions we’ve made over the years.

As a full-time RVer, I also found myself looking for ways to escape the holiday crowds at the campground! Now that we’re stationary at a seasonal site (we had one a few years ago too), I thought it would be the perfect time to share some pros and cons of seasonal stays versus full-time nomadic travel. If you’re trying to decide which path might be best for your family, I hope this helps you weigh your options.

Seasonal Sites

Seasonal sites can be a great choice if you’re looking for more stability. Here’s what we love (and don’t love) about them:

Pros:

• Cost savings: Seasonal sites often offer highly discounted rates compared to nightly or weekly stays.

• Feels like home: You can truly settle in, think outdoor couches, sheds, and even a cozy gazebo setup.

• Convenience: Perfect if you need to stay in a specific area for work, kids’ school, or to be close to family.

• Community: You can build a local network, join homeschool co-ops, or sign the kids up for sports.

Cons:

• Repetitive: You might miss the excitement of discovering new places, hikes, and attractions.

• Routine-heavy: Over time, it can start to feel more like living in a traditional house, with the same day-to-day patterns.

Nomadic Travel

There’s something special about the freedom of constantly being on the move, we have been lucky enough to travel to 27 states and are working our way to the lower 48 by the time our oldest graduates (only 4 more years to go)

Pros:

• Endless exploration: There’s always a new place to discover and adventure waiting around the corner.

• Ultimate flexibility: Don’t like a spot? You can simply pack up and move on.

Cons:

• Cost: Fuel and campground fees can add up quickly.

• Connectivity challenges: Reliable Wi-Fi and work setups can be harder to come by.

• Logistics: Scheduling doctor and dentist visits on the road isn’t always easy.

• Lack of stability: It can be hard to feel fully settled anywhere, but it’s definitely never boring!

Which Is Right for You?

Whether you choose to settle into a seasonal site or chase new sites year-round, both options offer their own kind of magic. It really comes down to what works best for your family, your lifestyle, and your current season of life.

If you’re still deciding, don’t worry, there’s no one “right” way to RV. You might even find yourself switching it up over time, just like we have!

Have you tried both? I’d love to hear which one you prefer and why! Hit reply and share your story with me.

📚 Books on Board

Last week, I finished Still Beating by Jennifer Hartmann. It started out feeling like a thriller but surprised me by turning into a romance. It was such a powerful story of character growth, with some meaningful life lessons woven in — definitely one that stuck with me.

“love doesn’t exist without sacrifice. Sometimes those sacrifices are waking up ten minutes early to make your partner coffee. Sometimes it’s taking on a second job to support your family. Sometimes it’s staying up all night with a newborn so your significant other can finally sleep. Sometimes it’s shoveling the other person’s car out of the driveway after a snowstorm.” She places her palm against my wet cheek and smiles softly. “And sometimes it’s making the ultimate sacrifice and walking away for the greater good.”

I also read Slow Burn Summer by Josie Silver. This quick, beachy read was just what I needed! It’s a sweet romance about an out-of-work actress who, after her divorce, takes a job impersonating the author of a new viral book — and unexpectedly finds love along the way. Perfect if you’re looking for a light, feel-good summer escape.

I’m currently reading Lisa Jewell’s newest release, Don’t Let Him In. Stay tuned for my thoughts on it next week!

📍 Worth the Stop

This week, we went to a fun science day at our local library as part of their summer reading program. They did the classic volcano experiment with vinegar and baking soda, which my 7-year-old absolutely loved! We had just watched the new Jurassic Park movie over the weekend, so he was extra excited and even wanted to build his own volcano at home to play with his dinosaurs.

Where was I going with this? Oh right, while we were at the library, they started talking about real volcanoes, and Logan (my 7-year-old) proudly shared that we had actually visited one. It made me realize that if it stuck in his memory, it was definitely worth sharing here too!

In Arizona, we visited two amazing volcano sites near Flagstaff:

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument - We hiked the trails and explored the on-site museum, learning all about the eruption that created the crater nearly 1,000 years ago.

Lava River Cave - This mile-long lava tube was formed about 700,000 years ago by flowing molten rock. Getting down into the cave is a bit challenging, but it’s absolutely worth it. Just don’t forget to bring multiple flashlights, it’s pitch black inside!

While exploring, we stayed at the nearby Village Camp RV Resort. We loved the large paved sites, and the premium sites even had beautiful outdoor kitchens, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.

These trips are such a great reminder of how learning can come alive through travel. And who knows, maybe your next adventure will inspire a fun science project at home too!

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

With Prime Days happening this week, my cart was definitely full! Now that we’re staying put for the rest of the summer, I wanted to make our outdoor space extra cozy and inviting. Here are a few things I added to create the perfect hangout spot:

• An L-shaped patio set for reading & lounging

• A deck box to keep all the kids’ toys organized

• An outdoor garbage can (to keep things clean)

• A grill gazebo to make summer cookouts even better

I can’t wait to enjoy all these little upgrades and soak up the rest of the season outside!

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

This week, I wanted to share some of my favorite podcasts. When I’m not listening to an audiobook on Audible, you’ll usually find me tuning into a podcast, whether I’m walking the dogs, folding laundry, getting ready for the day, or playing “passenger princess” on travel days. From RV life and books to business and beyond, here are my top picks:

Shelf Made Life

Christina Nicholson interviews people making a living in the book world, from influencers to subscription box founders. It’s full of inspiring ideas for anyone who dreams of turning their passion into a business.

RV Atlas

Hosted by authors Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi, this podcast is a must-listen for all things RVing. From campground recommendations to gear reviews and family travel tips, their episodes are packed with helpful advice.

Unapologetically Me

Hosted by Heather Blankenship, an RV park real estate investor and the founder of the women’s mastermind I’m part of. She’s down-to-earth and relatable, sharing stories from other women investors across RV parks, Airbnbs, and more.

Bookmarked

A new podcast from Reese’s Book Club featuring author interviews and book discussions. The most recent episode dive into TV adaptations of favorite reads — a fun listen for any book lover.

RV Life

Hosted by Patti Hunt, a fellow full-time RVer I had the pleasure of meeting in person. She shares her own insights and interviews other RVers to help you navigate and enjoy RV life to the fullest.

1000 Hours Outside Podcast

We all struggle to spend more time outdoors, and this podcast is a great motivator. The host chats with authors and experts about ways to get kids off screens and back to simply being kids again.

Women Making Money on the Road

Hosted by the RV Queens, this show spotlights powerhouse women who RV, homeschool, and run businesses from the road. Don’t miss Season 6, episode 7 where I was interviewed!

📚 Books on Board

This week I finished The Retreat by Kristen Ritter, it’s about a beautiful con artist who impersonates a wealthy socialite, which gets out of hand. While I loved the idea of the book, I found it a bit hard to stay fully engaged at times, so it’s a 3.5-star read for me.

My next book is a lot more promising, Still Beating by Jennifer Harttman, which I’m currently listening to on Audible, you can get it for FREE here if you have Kindle Unlimited. I’m about halfway through, and I can’t stop! I’ll share my full review with you next week.

📍 Worth the Stop

Since we’re back in our hometown, we aren’t doing much sightseeing right now. But I wanted to share a favorite spot we visited a couple of years ago — Luray Caverns in Virginia. We’ve explored quite a few caverns over the years, and this one is my favorite so far. The self-guided tours, along with the impressive stalagmites and stalactites, make it truly memorable.

Your ticket also includes admission to the on-site Heritage Village, which features a car museum and a toy museum, plenty to do over 2-3 days. Nearby, you’ll find Shenandoah National Park and the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. We stayed at Spacious Skies Campgrounds - Shenandoah Views, which we loved.

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

We’re spending the summer at a seasonal site while my husband focuses on his RV repair business. Staying in one spot for a while gives us the chance to really make it feel like home. We’re planning to build a gazebo, and I picked up this outdoor rug to use on the platform. I picked it because of the lighted border. I’ll share photos once the project is finished. It’ll also be perfect to bring along and use under the awning when we’re back on the road.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t miss our online bookstore, filled with carefully curated picks perfect for life on the road. Check out my favorite summer picks here!

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

As an avid reader, I’m sure you can relate I buy way too many books and my TBR stack seems to grow every week! Living full-time in an RV, I’ve had to be intentional about keeping only the books I truly love since space is limited and I rarely reread. While I enjoy donating books to Little Free Libraries or swapping them at campground bookshelves, I’ve also found a few great places to sell used books. It’s a win-win: declutter your space and make a little extra cash!

Thriftbooks

I’ve sold several books through this site, including kids’ books, and the process is super simple. Just scan your books, print the prepaid shipping label, and send them off. You can choose to get paid via PayPal or use your earnings as credit to buy more books from their online store—perfect for fueling your reading habit!

Booksrun

While the payouts are usually a bit lower than ThriftBooks, this site tends to accept more titles. It’s user-friendly and lets you scan barcodes or enter ISBNs manually, making the process quick and convenient.

Book Outlet

This site may not buy back books, but it’s too good not to mention! They offer new books at deep discounts—and right now, hundreds are marked down to just $5.99. I just snagged 7 books for $55 and can’t wait for the book mail to arrive!

📚 Books on Board

This week, I read Caught Up, the second book in Navessa Allen’s Into the Darkness series. It’s a spicy romance featuring the son of a mafia boss and his former high school friend. While I was excited to continue the series, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me like the first book did. That said, I did enjoy the glimpses we got of the Josh & Aly from book one, Lights Out.

Next Up:

The Retreat by Krysten Ritter—a psychological thriller I’ve been eager to start. I’ll share my thoughts in next week’s newsletter!

📍 Worth the Stop

If you're heading to Las Vegas, NV, consider staying at Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort! Located just minutes from the Strip, conference centers, and casinos, this resort offers a surprisingly peaceful and quiet atmosphere. The campground features clean, paved sites, a fitness center, and two pool areas (one for families and another for adults.) A fun surprise? There are even slot machines in the camp store, my first time seeing that! During our trip for the RVDA conference, we also visited the Hoover Dam. If you go, I highly recommend splurging on the paid tour for a behind-the-scenes look at how the dam operates, plus a fascinating video on its construction.

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

There’s nothing better than curling up with a good book in a cozy chair by the campfire, and this oversized chair is my new favorite reading spot. Even better, it’s heated for those chilly nights! Just don’t forget to grab the battery pack (sold separately)… I learned that the hard way.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

There’s nothing I love more than the sound of ocean waves and a good book in my hand. One of my favorite vacation spots has always been Maine—a place I first fell in love with during trips with my grandmother as a teen. This week, I got to relive those memories on a special girls’ trip with my mom, sister, and daughter. Three generations soaking in the salty breeze, exploring the coast, shopping, and indulging in some seriously delicious food.

If you find yourself near York or Ogunquit, be sure to grab breakfast at The Egg & I—you won’t regret it!

Since I’ve been at the beach, I thought it was the perfect time to share a few fun romance beach reads for your summer adventures.

• Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
  A swoony romance filled with heart, humor, and Abby’s signature charm. It’s the kind of book that leaves you smiling long after the last page. Get it for FREE on Kindle Unlimited.

• One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune (TBR)
  On my to-be-read list! This one promises sun-soaked nostalgia and second chances—everything you want in a summer escape.

• Beach Read by Emily Henry
  I read this last year and it’s just a super cute, opposites-attract love story. Perfectly light, perfectly summery.

• Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey (TBR)
  Full of Southern charm, family secrets, and beach house vibes—this one’s ideal for fans of heartfelt, feel-good fiction.

• The Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood
  Just finished this one last week and LOVED it. Smart heroine, sizzling chemistry, and laugh-out-loud moments—definitely recommend!

• The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin
  A beautiful story of friendship, grief, and the healing power of second chances. Emotional but uplifting—perfect for a reflective beach day.

• Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn
  Just finished this one and couldn’t stop laughing! A fake marriage, billionaire hijinks, and tons of heart. Scroll down for my full review—it’s a 5-star summer fave. Get it for FREE on Kindle Unlimited.

P.S. You may have noticed this newsletter recently shifted from Campfires & Cashflow to Reading & Roadtrips—a new direction for women who love to travel and read. If this no longer fits your interests, feel free to unsubscribe (no hard feelings—I promise!).

📚 Books on Board

This Week’s Read: Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn

Looking for the perfect beach read? Meghan Quinn delivers again with her latest release, Till Summer Do Us Part. It’s packed with laugh-out-loud moments, a hilarious fake marriage scenario, and a week-long couple’s camp full of chaos and charm. Wilder, the swoony billionaire with improv chops, uses every trick in the book to fool the counselor—and the heroine’s coworkers—while sparks fly. It’s sweet, spicy, and everything I want in a summer rom-com. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Up Next:
On my TBR is Caught Up by Navessa Allen. I’ll share my thoughts in next week’s newsletter—stay tuned!

📍 Worth the Stop

One of my all-time favorite trips was our visit to Acadia National Park two years ago. We stayed at a cute little spot called Moorings Campground in Belfast, ME, right on Penobscot Bay. The water was calm and crystal clear—perfect for kayaking—and it’s where I found my very first full sand dollar (and the only one to this day!).

On the way to Acadia, we made a memorable stop at Bar Harbor Lobster Co. The food was amazing, and the relaxed outdoor vibe made it the perfect place to kick back and soak in the Maine coast.

🛒 What’s in My Amazon Cart

We took a girls’ trip to Maine this week, and this snack box was perfectly packed with all our favorite road trip treats. It kept us fueled between scenic stops, beach strolls, and bookstore visits.

Here's some snack ideas on keeping your passenger princess (or kids) happy on the road:

🍓 Fruits

• Fresh strawberries

• Grapes (always a hit!)

• Apple slices

• Dried mango

🍬 Sweets

• Sour Patch Kids

• Mini chocolate bars

• Gummy bears

• Dark chocolate-covered almonds

🍿 Salty Snacks

• Mini pretzels

• Sea salt popcorn

• Cheese cubes

• Trail mix with a hint of spice

Perfect for passing around the car and keeping everyone happy (and a little spoiled) on the road. Highly recommend assembling your own for your next adventure!

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Welcome to the first edition of Reading & Roadtrips!

This newsletter is for women who love to travel—and never hit the road without a book in hand.

If this isn’t you, feel free to unsubscribe here.

To kick things off, I’m sharing a recap of my May reads. I managed to get through 8 books this month (okay, a few were audiobooks—but those count, right?). Let’s just say my book budget took a hit in May!

Starting next week, you can expect our regular lineup: book recommendations, destination inspiration, RV hacks, and a peek at what’s in my Amazon cart. Let’s get started:

King of Envy by Ana Huang

My first book of the month was the fourth book in Ana Huang’s steamy Kings of Sin series, King of Envy brings another slow-burn romance with high heat and emotional tension.

I had been really looking forward to this one, but it ended up being my least favorite of the series. The chemistry between the couple just didn’t hit as strongly for me as the previous books in the series. Also, I listened to the audiobook—and the male main character communicates through sign language, which was portrayed with an echoey voice effect. It was a creative choice but honestly felt a bit off. Still, if you're reading the full series, it's worth picking up to stay in the loop! I would recommend grabbing the free Kindle version here.

Predictable Profits by Stu Mclaren

This month’s nonfiction pick came from a marketing conference I attended back in February. Predictable Profits is a practical guide to building and scaling a membership-based business, written by one of the top experts in the space.

I make it a goal to read at least one business or personal development book each month, and this one was packed with value. Nonfiction can sometimes feel heavy, but this book had short, engaging chapters and tons of actionable takeaways—I did a lot of highlighting! If you’ve ever thought about launching a membership, this is a must-read.

The Tenant by Frieda Mcfaden

In this chilling psychological thriller, a young couple decides to rent out a room in their apartment to help make ends meet—but their new tenant brings more than just luggage. Secrets unravel, tensions rise, and soon they find themselves caught in a deadly game where nothing is as it seems… and no one is safe.

This was another new release from one of my favorite thriller authors, and it didn’t disappoint. Freida’s twisty plots always keep me on my toes, and I love when I can’t predict the ending. The Tenant had me second-guessing everyone, and the final reveal completely surprised me—just how I like my thrillers! Best of all it’s free for those that a kindle unlimited subscription.

Parents Weekend by Alex Finlay

During what’s supposed to be a celebratory weekend at a prestigious college, a group of parents finds themselves caught in a terrifying turn of events when a violent crime rocks the campus. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the line between truth and lies blurs, forcing each character to question how well they really know their children, or themselves.

This one kept me on edge! A fast-paced thriller that’s hard to describe without giving away too much (seriously—no spoilers here!). It had all the intensity I’ve come to expect from Alex Finlay and even included a small connection to one of his earlier books, which was a fun surprise. If you enjoy twisty stories where no one is quite who they seem, this one’s worth the read.

The Influencer by Adriane Leigh

A social media star’s picture-perfect life begins to unravel as secrets from her past resurface in this suspenseful thriller. This is the first in a three-book series.

I found this one on Instagram and gave it a shot since it’s free on Kindle Unlimited. It started out a bit slow, but it definitely picked up by the end and left me curious enough to check out book two. A solid start to the series!

The Last Road Trip by Jennifer Klepper

When four former sorority sisters reunite decades later to finally complete the cross-country road trip they never finished in college, they’re each carrying the weight of life’s challenges, which include grief, divorce, illness, and motherhood. What begins as a nostalgic getaway turns into a powerful journey of healing, rediscovery, and the enduring strength of female friendship.

This was such a heartfelt read. I loved the way it explored real-life struggles that many of us face and how the women leaned on each other to get through it all. It reminded me how important connection is, no matter how much time has passed. Bonus: it’s free with Kindle Unlimited, so definitely worth grabbing!

Serial Killer Support Group by Saratoga Schafer

A darkly humorous and twisted thriller that follows a secret support group for serial killers. When one of them breaks the rules and threatens to expose them all, chaos ensues. With complicated characters and unexpected turns this book explores the bizarre bonds between the unlikeliest of characters.

This was a total impulse pick during a trip to Barnes & Noble with my daughter—and honestly, how could I resist a title like that? You can’t go wrong with serial killers, right? It was dark, clever, and didn’t disappoint. With complicated characters and unexpected turns this book was a great, quick read.

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

Another charming story from Emily Henry, this novel follows two authors with competing career goals who unexpectedly find connection—and maybe love—amidst their rivalry. With her signature mix of heart, humor, and emotional depth, Emily delivers another feel-good romance.

It seems like this was the month of new releases! Great Big Beautiful Life was a sweet, easy read—exactly what I’ve come to expect from Emily Henry. While I enjoyed it, the main characters and their love story felt a bit familiar to her previous books. That said, it had an interesting subplot woven into the romance, low spice, and plenty of heart. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for something warm and uplifting.

📬 Before You Go…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Here are my go-to cornerstones:

Morning Routine

• Exercise: I used to follow The Faster Way and loved it! I need to get back into it. When we were in the South, so many campgrounds had fitness centers, but up North? Not so much.

• Vitamins: I always take magnesium, vitamin D, a probiotic, and a good multivitamin to start the day off right.

Nighttime Routine

• Reading: I’m not a big TV watcher, so I unwind at night with a good book, usually something light and fun. I’m currently reading To Summer Do Us Part by Megan Quinn.

• Journaling: I jot down 3 things I’m grateful for, 3 wins from the day, and 3 goals for tomorrow. And if I don’t get a chance to write it down, I’ll just run through them in my head before falling asleep.

Routines might look a little different on the road, but even the simplest ones make a big difference. I’ve been thinking about habit stacking—adding one more intentional thing to my morning and nighttime routines. What’s one simple habit you recommend I try?

💰Road Ready Income

Becoming a Virtual Assistant is a flexible way to earn income on the road—offering admin, calendar, inbox, or customer support services from anywhere with Wi-Fi. Want more ideas? Download my guide with 50 RV-friendly business ideas to help you work from wherever you roam!

📝 Roadschool Report

If you're a fellow homeschooler like me, I wanted to take a moment to share something special, my friend Kimberly’s new newsletter, The Homeschool Flow. It’s a warm, welcoming community for homeschooling moms, filled with honest conversations about homeschool life, book club chats, and so much more. Come join us!

📍 Worth the Stop

We stayed at Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks while exploring Savannah, GA and the surrounding areas. Highlights from our trip included a day at Tybee Island and a visit to Old Fort Jackson. And if you’re looking for a great meal, we highly recommend The Pirate House, it had amazing Southern food and a historic, one-of-a-kind atmosphere!

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

I just added these outdoor string lights to our campsite after spotting them at other sites, and I’m obsessed! They’re so adorable and instantly give that classic campground glow.

📚 What I’m Reading

I just started Building a Business You Love by Dave Ramsey for our June book club pick in the Society of Entrepreneurial Women mastermind. True to his style, Ramsey delivers no-nonsense, straight-to-the-point advice—I can practically hear his voice as I read!

🏕️ Campground Update

Last week, we put in an offer on a cute little campground in New York. It was closed and in need of some serious TLC, but we saw so much potential. It checked all the boxes in our “buy box”: under $1 million, at least 10 acres, located in the Northeast, and even had a water feature (not a must-have, but definitely a nice bonus!).

Unfortunately, the sellers went with an all-cash offer, so ours wasn’t accepted. While it’s a bit of a setback, we’re not giving up. We’re actively building a list of campgrounds for sale to evaluate, so if you hear of anything that might be a good fit, we’d love for you to send it our way!

If you enjoyed this newsletter… just wait until you see what’s inside the RV Moms Club!!

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

As many of you know, my husband and I have been on a journey to buy a campground ever since we sold our home a couple of years ago. We were under contract on a property, but that deal fell through—and since then, we’ve been actively searching again.

This year, we’ve toured several campgrounds and even considered purchasing raw land to develop our own. While we’ve come across some beautiful properties with woods and water features (just what we’re looking for!), the biggest challenges have been zoning restrictions and the steep costs of installing septic, water, and electricity. For beginners like us, that’s a high barrier to entry.

Most of the campgrounds we’ve looked at have been within a few hours of New York. One consistent obstacle? The financials. Many campground owners don’t keep clean books. If you're a business owner, here’s a tip: avoid running personal expenses through your business account. If your P&L doesn’t reflect a real profit, it becomes nearly impossible for a buyer to finance the purchase.

We’ve explored owner financing as well, but haven’t found the right fit—yet.

This week, I opened up to the women’s mastermind I’m part of about how discouraged I’ve been feeling. I was reminded of a powerful truth: most people fail not because they’re doing something wrong, but because they give up too soon.

Can you relate? It’s easy to shift gears when results don’t come quickly. But often, the breakthrough lies just beyond the point where most people quit. I was reminded that making offers is a numbers game—something I tell our Fireside franchisees all the time when they’re trying to bring in new RVs. It’s also about relationships: getting to know the owners, showing up consistently, and being top of mind when they’re finally ready to sell.

So we’re pressing forward—analyzing deals, making offers, and believing that our future family campground is out there waiting for us.

I've learned that consistent action—even small steps taken daily—is how real progress happens. That’s why I joined both a mastermind and the 30 Days to $500K Challenge with Bill Allen. I needed the accountability and momentum to stay focused and keep moving, even when the journey feels long.

Part of the challenge is showing up every day and sharing our story—so here I am. Over the past few years, we've built a business in the RV rental and repair space, helping families hit the road and create unforgettable memories. Now, we're taking everything we've learned and applying it to our next chapter: owning and operating a campground.

I’ll be sharing our progress over the coming weeks—from raising capital and scouting properties to the real lessons we’re learning in the process.

What are you doing daily to reach your goals? If campground investing or RV parks interest you—or someone you know—just hit reply. I’d love to connect!

💰 Income on the Road

Have you ever explored the idea of workcamping? I’ve definitely considered it—mostly because I’d love to get a behind-the-scenes look at how campgrounds operate. But for now, I just came bring myself to commit to staying in one place.

If you're curious about workcamping opportunities, Workamper News is a great resource. I’m not an affiliate, just passing along something helpful! They offer a free 30-day trial you can check out here.

📝 Roadschool Report

Our homeschool year is officially wrapped! We’ve completed our 180 days as required by NYS and finished up CAT testing. Now it’s time for summer!

While we don’t homeschool year-round, we still embrace learning through everyday life. My oldest often tags along with my husband, an RV tech, gaining hands-on experience in RV repair and business. We’ll also be visiting museums, diving into good books, and soaking up all the learning summer naturally brings.

🏕 Campground of the Week

Village Camp in Flagstaff, AZ is a newer RV resort we stayed at during the fall—and despite a surprise snowfall, we had a great time! The paved sites were perfect for the kids to ride their electric scooters. The premium sites at Village Camp feature outdoor kitchens, and if we return in warmer weather, I’ll definitely be splurging on one of those!

Just down the road, we tackled a challenging (but worth it) hike, at the Lava River Cave, which is a tube cave formed by molten rock.

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

I have tried gym memberships but there isn’t always one around where we are staying. Fitness centers at the campground are great but not all of the campgrounds have one - so to stay consistent, I got these adjustable weights which helps cut down on space and having additional weight when we don’t need it in the RV. Curious how do you work out on the road?

📚 What I’m Reading or Listening To

Taking a little break from business books and diving into Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry. I’ve loved her previous novels, and this one is just as cute—a perfect read for the beach, hammock, or cozy campfire nights.

It’s a lighthearted love story about two authors competing for the same job… and, of course, unexpectedly falling for each other. I haven’t finished it yet, so no spoilers on whether it has a happily-ever-after—but so far, it’s been a fun read!

If you enjoyed this newsletter… just wait until you see what’s inside the paid subscription!

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

If you're a full-time RVer like me, let’s take a moment to commiserate. As the campgrounds fill up this weekend, all of us introverts are quietly thinking... why are all these people in our backyard? 😅

We’ve actually talked about flipping our schedule—taking time off during the week instead of the weekend—just so we can enjoy popular spots without the crowds. (Highly recommend it if you can swing it!)

Okay, rant over.

Now let’s talk about something fun - our favorite roadschooling adventures! These are the kinds of places where the kids are having such a blast, they don’t even realize they’re learning. That’s what I love most about roadschooling. I never thought I’d lean into an “unschooling” approach, but this year, for science and social studies, we ditched the workbooks and focused on learning by seeing, doing, and exploring. And honestly? It’s been the best decision yet. Here are some of the kids favorites spots we visited so far:

Battleship Cove - Falls River, MA

We stumbled upon this spot while making a quick stop for the kids' favorite pizza (Papa John's—something we don’t have back home!). The Battleship Cove was home to a battleship, a destroyer, and a submarine. We ended up spending the entire day there! We were especially blown away by the size of the battleship—it once housed up to 2,800 crew members.

The kids enjoyed exploring the ships and we picked up some fascinating historical facts along the way, from the roles each ship played in different wars to what life was like onboard. It was hands-on history at its finest!

Patriot Point Naval & Maritime Musuem - Mount Pleasant, SC

Visiting Battleship Cove brought back memories of our trip to Patriots Point in Charleston, SC—a spot a local recommended to us a few years ago. The kids were younger then, but they still got so much out of the experience.

Patriots Point features an impressive aircraft carrier that served in the Vietnam War, which makes it a great stop if you’re studying that era in history. It also includes a WWII-era destroyer, offering a powerful, hands-on way to connect with major moments in U.S. history.

Explora – Albuquerque, NM

The kids loved Explora so much, we ended up going twice—thanks to our reciprocal membership that got us in for free! While it’s labeled a children’s museum, it felt more like a hands-on science center, packed with interactive exhibits that made learning feel like play.

One of the biggest hits was the water flow exhibit, where the kids could explore currents, dams, and fountains. Everything was designed to spark curiosity and encourage experimentation.

Shelburne Museum – Shelburne, VT

We've visited the Shelburne Museum several times over the years, and it never disappoints. With 39 historic buildings spread out over 45 acres, you could easily spend a couple of days exploring everything it has to offer.

Some of the highlights include the grand Circus Building and carousel, the restored steamboat Ticonderoga, a historic jail, blacksmith shop, railroad station, and a classic New England meeting house.

The kids loved wandering in and out of the buildings, each discovering their own favorite spot. It’s the kind of place where every visit feels like a new adventure.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum – Springfield, MA

Located within the Springfield Museums complex, the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum is just one part of five museums; admission also includes access to the Museum of Fine Arts, the Springfield Science Museum, the Museum of Springfield History, and the whimsical Dr. Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden.

The Dr. Seuss Museum itself is a magical experience—especially for younger kids. It brings your favorite books to life with colorful, interactive exhibits that spark imagination and creativity. From exploring Whoville to navigating a giant marble maze or “visiting” the Seuss Bakery, there’s plenty to keep older kids engaged too.

Mystic Seaport Musuem in Mystic, CT

This is one of those places we’ve returned to again and again—and the kids love it every time, no matter their age.

Mystic Seaport is a living history museum where you can step back in time and immerse yourself in 19th-century coastal New England life. From watching skilled coopers and printers at work to walking through a recreated village, it’s a hands-on way to see how people lived and worked back then.

Strong National Musuem of Play - Rochester, NY

We spent an entire day at The Strong Museum, and honestly, we barely scratched the surface—there’s so much to do, you could easily spend multiple days seeing it all!

From vintage toys like Barbies and action figures to a kid-sized supermarket for pretend play, every corner is packed with fun. One whole floor is dedicated to classic arcade and video games (yes, you can play them!), and there’s even an entire Berenstain Bears exhibit we didn’t make it to—our littlest one was ready for a nap by then.

It’ was entertaining for kids and adults, making it one of the most memorable museums we’ve visited.

Museum of Osteology – Oklahoma City, OK

This small but fascinating museum is truly one-of-a-kind, showcasing real bones from a wide variety of animals—and even a few human specimens, including infants, which some may find a bit unsettling (like me and my oldest son)

Despite its size, the attention to detail in the displays is incredible. You can easily explore it in a couple of hours, making it a perfect stop on a travel day to get out, stretch your legs, and learn something new.

💰 Income on the Road

I naturally gravitate toward creative business ideas—they just seem like so much fun to build! Recently, I came across an idea on Instagram that really sparked my interest: vision board kits paired with in-person workshops.

It struck me as something that could work perfectly on the road. You could offer these workshops at campgrounds, retreats, or even partner with local businesses and corporations in the areas you’re traveling through. It’s a great way to combine creativity, connection, and mobility into a road-friendly income stream.

📝 Roadschool Report

Have you heard of the Tuttle Twins books? They’re a fantastic resource that teaches kids important values and real-world concepts in a fun, fact-based way. This Memorial Day weekend, they’re offering a huge discount on their best-selling book bundle—plus free bonuses! Don’t miss out: 👉 Grab the deal here

🏕 Campground of the Week

One of our favorite surprise stays this winter was Riverside in Arcadia, FL. We originally chose it because it was close to family—but it ended up being a hidden gem! The large grassy sites, smooth paved roads perfect for biking, and access to ponds and the river for fishing made it such a relaxing spot.

Best of all? It’s part of the Thousand Trails network, so we were able to stay twice—completely free with our membership. I almost don’t want to give this one away… but it’s too good not to recommend!

🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves

As full-time RVers, Amazon is often our go-to for convenience—thanks to options like Lockers and shipping to local pickup points. So, I thought it would be fun to start sharing a few of our favorite finds that make road life a little easier (and cozier!).

This week’s pick? This tree bookshelf. As an avid reader, I love having a few physical books with me—not just my e-reader. And now my daughter’s become a bookworm too, thanks to BookTok! She wanted one of these for her room as well, and it’s been perfect for keeping our current reads close at hand.

📚 What I’m Reading or Listening To

This week I’m still working through The 5 Types of Wealth, but I’ve also been starting my mornings with some inspiring podcasts while getting ready. One of my current favorites is Unapologetically Me, hosted by Heather Blankenship—a homeschooling mom of five and a real estate investor with a focus on RV parks. I’m part of her women’s mastermind, where I’m learning everything I need to know for our next big adventure: buying a campground! Heather is incredibly relatable and so much fun to listen to—highly recommend checking her out.

If you enjoyed this newsletter… just wait until you see what’s inside the RV Mom’s Club!!

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Join us and take the next step toward living, learning, and earning on your terms.

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Full-time RV life is a whole different world compared to living in a sticks-and-bricks home. Your house rolls down the highway, which means repairs are inevitable. You’re navigating tighter spaces (which can crank up the tension), and on top of that, you’re juggling business building, roadschooling, adventuring, cooking, laundry—and let’s not forget the never-ending battle against sand in the camper (when you’re lucky enough to park near a beach).

It’s not always easy, but it’s the life we chose—and the one we’re learning to thrive in.

Over the months, I’ve learned a few things that have helped me keep my sanity and even find joy in the chaos—and I want to share them with you.

Even on the worst days, you won’t regret it

The tough moments—like breakdowns, tantrums, or missed turns—fade, but the memories we’ve made and the time spent with our kids exploring new places will stay with us forever. Watching them experience adventure through fresh eyes? Totally worth it.

Get a washer and dryer in your rig

Seriously—this is one of those upgrades that pays for itself. You’ll save so much time, money, and hassle compared to hunting down laundromats (especially when they’re busy, dirty, or nonexistent).

Always book full hookups

When we first hit the road, I was still in weekend warrior mode—thinking we could just dump on the way out. Once you’re doing laundry, dishes, and showers full-time, that full hookup becomes essential.

You don’t need as much stuff as you think

No matter how much you declutter before hitting the road, you’ll still bring too much. We sure did—extra clothes, kitchen gadgets, blankets, toys… things we thought we’d use but never did. After a few months on the road, take the time to reassess. If it hasn’t been used, it’s probably not worth the space. Donate it, sell it, or pass it along—you’ll feel lighter and your rig will too. Less stuff truly means less stress.

Give yourself (and your family) grace

Tight quarters and unpredictable travel days can test everyone’s patience. Expect messes, moods, and meltdowns—and know that it’s normal.

Community is everything

Whether it’s swapping stories at a campground or chatting online with fellow travelers, finding your people adds so much richness to RV life. That’s exactly why I created the Campfires & Cashflow Club—for those of us living, learning, and earning on the road.

💰 Income on the Road

Our first successful entrepreneurial journey—the one that opened the door to more travel and a life on our own terms—was starting an RV rental business. It gave us the flexibility we craved and eventually allowed my husband to leave his 9-5 corporate job.

Living in a seasonal state meant we could travel during the off-season, making the most of both income and adventure.

Now, I’ve taken everything we learned and created a step-by-step course to help you get started renting out your own RV. Or, if you’re ready to go all in, you can start your own RV rental management franchise with Fireside RV Rental—just like we did.

📝 Roadschool Report

My oldest wrapped up 8th grade this year (seriously, where does the time go?). One of our priorities was teaching him about personal finance and real-world life skills—the kind of things most of us never learned in public school.

We discovered a homeschool program through Ramsey Solutions that offers courses in entrepreneurship, personal finance, and career readiness. This year, he completed the Personal Finance course, and—believe it or not—actually enjoyed it (well, as much as a 13-year-old boy can enjoy school 😉).

It’s been so rewarding to watch him grasp concepts like budgeting, saving, and smart spending—tools he’ll carry for life.

🏕 Campground of the Week

Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY, a family-friendly campground, is a favorite of ours! With several playgrounds, large grassy campsites, and paved roads perfect for bike riding, it’s an ideal stop for RVers with kids.

What makes it extra special? It’s combined to a must-visit destination where you can watch live horse shows, tour the barns, and learn all about the history and heritage of horses in Kentucky.

Whether you’re an equestrian fan or just looking for a peaceful, well-maintained campground, this one is definitely worth adding to your travel list.

📚 What I’m Reading or Listening To

This week, I started The 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom. I am only about a quarter of the way through, but I already highly recommend it—it’s a powerful reminder that wealth isn’t just about money. Bloom dives into the five types of wealth: financial, time, physical, social, and mental—and how true fulfillment comes from building all five. One of my favorite takeaways so far is the idea of a “life razor”—a tool for defining your identity and making decisions in alignment with the person you want to become.

This is exactly the kind of book we dive into in the Road to Growth Book Club, one of the core features inside the Campfires & Cashflow Club. If you’re craving meaningful conversations and mindset growth alongside other road-based entrepreneurs, you’ll love what we’re building in there. Reply to this email that you are interested and I will send you an invite!

If you liked this newsletter…

If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Homeschooling, traveling, working, and simply living life on the road can feel overwhelming at times. That’s why learning to manage your time intentionally is so important — so you can focus on what truly lights you up and brings you joy.

After all, isn’t that why you chose this lifestyle in the first place? For the time freedom, the flexibility, and the chance to explore the beauty of our country?

Time Management Tips for Life on the Road

Lately, I’ve noticed I’m spending way more time at my computer than I’d like. I catch myself staring out the window, watching the kids play while I chip away at an endless stream of emails and a to-do list that only seems to grow. I didn’t leave the 9-5 grind just to replace it with even longer hours. I chose this lifestyle for more freedom, not to live for the weekends—but somehow, I’ve been missing out on the very adventure we set out for.

Once I had that realization, I knew something had to change. I came across a quote that stopped me in my tracks: “You can’t add more days to your life, but you can add more life to your days.” That hit home. I started asking myself—how can I truly live each day to the fullest while still getting everything done?

When you’re juggling homeschooling, travel, and running a business, time management isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. Here are a few strategies that help me stay focused and make room for both work and adventure:

Time Blocking

I use time blocking to give each part of my day a clear purpose. Whether it’s homeschool, work meetings, or rest, everything has its place — which helps me stay productive and present.

Task Batching

I group similar tasks together — like creating social media posts, writing newsletters, or making personal calls — to minimize distractions and get in the zone faster.

Pomodoro Method

Short sprints of focused work followed by quick breaks keep me energized and prevent burnout, especially on busy travel days.

Set Boundaries

I have begun to be strict about protecting my time. For example, I don’t work on Sundays, and we dedicate Field Trip Fridays to family fun and exploration so that we can get out and about on a non-weekend day and avoid the crowds.

Schedule the Fun

Don’t forget to block off time for the reason you chose this lifestyle! I make sure our adventures and downtime go on the calendar, so I don’t feel behind in business while enjoying the beautiful places we’re visiting.

Take a Nature Break

Feeling uninspired or stressed? That’s the perfect time to get up and take a walk. Some of my best ideas come when I step away from the screen and soak in the outdoors.

💰 Income on the Road

Here’s another fun business idea that’s perfect to take on the road, Creative Crafting Club. They provide all the tools and resources you need to start your own arts and crafts club—making it a great fit for campground stays. It’s an ideal side hustle for families, RVers, or anyone interested in work camping. Think of it like becoming the go-to activities director at your campground—hosting fun, creative events for kids.

📝 Roadschool Report

As we wrap up another year of homeschooling, we're navigating the usual red tape that comes with being based in New York—quarterly reports, end-of-year testing, and plenty of paperwork. If you're new to homeschooling, be sure to check your state’s requirements. HSLDA’s website is a great resource: Homeschool Laws By State. And if you're still deciding on a domicile, this can also help you find a state with fewer restrictions.

🏕 Campground of the Week

We loved staying at Sun Outdoors Canyonlands during our Utah adventure last fall. It was the perfect central spot for exploring both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The campground was clean, had a great pool, beautiful views, and featured a spacious dog park. While there was some traffic from side-by-sides heading to nearby trails, we appreciated being a bit off the beaten path—quieter and more relaxed than the campgrounds located right in town.

📚 What I’m Reading / Listening To

This week, I read Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren. I had the pleasure of hearing Stu speak at Funnel Hacking Live in Las Vegas this past February, and I finally carved out time to start the book. It’s an easy read, packed with actionable strategies for building a membership site that creates recurring revenue — perfect for anyone living life on the go.

Check out my new membership, The RV Mom’s Club upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)

Wow — it’s hard to believe it’s already been 7 months since we hit the road full-time! Time has flown, and along the way, we’ve learned a lot. One of the biggest lessons? This lifestyle is not a vacation — it’s real life, and we have to budget accordingly.

In the beginning, it was easy to fall into the trap of wanting to stay at the nicest RV resorts and book every tour and attraction. But that adds up fast, and unless you’re independently wealthy (spoiler: we’re not), it’s just not sustainable. After overspending in those first few months, we had to take a step back and get serious about managing our expenses on the road.

Campground Savings: The Power of Memberships

Campground memberships have made a huge difference for us. Programs like Thousand Trails and Harvest Hosts have helped us cut our nightly costs significantly.

• Thousand Trails starts at around $600 per year and gives you access to a network of campgrounds with “free” stays (though restrictions apply). There were times we couldn’t get a site, but during our very first campground stay, the membership practically paid for itself. We recently upgraded to the Adventure Membership, which lets us stay up to 3 weeks at a time and go park-to-park — we’re already booked at several spots and can’t wait to use it more!

• Harvest Hosts is another great option — about $100 per year gives you access to unique overnight stays at wineries, breweries, farms, museums, and more. We’ve stayed at several locations and loved the people we’ve met and the local products we've gotten to try. Get 15% off of your membership here.

Some RVers love boondocking (camping off-grid for free), and while we haven’t done that regularly yet (just a night here and there), it’s another great way to save.

Attraction Costs: How to Explore Without Overspending

Attractions can also get expensive, but we’ve found a few ways to reduce those costs:

• America the Beautiful Pass – This gives you access to National Parks and more for about $100/year. If you’re a veteran like my husband, you may qualify for a free lifetime pass (which is an amazing perk!).

• Reciprocal Museum Memberships – We purchased a membership through the Kern County Museum, which grants free or discounted access to hundreds of museums across the U.S. Some of our favorite visits have been the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY, and the Explora Children’s Museum in Albuquerque, NM.

• Local Deals – Don’t forget to check Groupon or search for free things to do in each area. You’d be surprised how many great (and free!) experiences are out there.

Food: Our Biggest Expense (And How We’re Tackling It)

One of our top spending categories is food — and we’re still working on reining it in. Meal planning has been a game-changer. I’ve been focusing on buying groceries, cooking more meals in the RV, and packing lunches when we’re out exploring or driving on travel days. It helps cut down on those unnecessary snack stops and restaurant bills.

To make it easier, I even created a custom GPT tool, called Roadtrip Recipes, that helps you create RV-friendly meal plans for your family. It’s totally free to try — give it a try here. I'd love to hear your feedback so I can continue to improve it!

💰 Income on the Road

Have a passion for chatting with people and experience in the food industry?
If so, this could be the perfect business for you — a Charcuterie Cart Business!

I stumbled across this idea while scrolling Instagram and instantly thought it would be a fantastic business to run on the road. It doesn’t require a lot of supplies, looks like so much fun, and offers incredible flexibility. You could travel from event to event across the country, selling at local fairs, festivals, corporate retreats, rallies, glampgrounds, weddings — even campgrounds (with permission)!

The best part? There's even a course called "Launch Your Charcuterie Bar in 30 Days" to help you get started. (This isn’t an affiliate link — just a genuinely fun business idea I wanted to share!)

📝 Roadschool Report

Our new science curriculum just arrived for next year, and I’m so excited! My two youngest will be in 2nd and 7th grade, and we’ll be continuing with The Good & the Beautiful unit studies. I love how their curriculum is designed with multi-age workbooks, making it easy to teach all my kids together. Coming up this year: ecosystems, marine biology, and health & the physical body. Can’t wait to dive in!

🏕 Campground of the Week

This week, I’m highlighting one of our all-time favorite campgrounds—Myrtle Beach Travel Park in Myrtle Beach, SC! We've made it a tradition to visit once a year for the past four years, and it never disappoints. Just steps from the beach, it’s perfect for daily shoreline walks. In the off-season, you’ll enjoy a peaceful stay with access to an indoor pool, and in the warmer months, there’s a large outdoor pool and lazy river. With a playground, fishing, and a well-stocked (and reasonably priced) camp store, it has everything you and your kids need to stay entertained—no “I’m bored” complaints here!

📚 What I’m Reading / Listening To

I've been making a conscious effort to read more non-fiction lately, and this week I've decided to dive into The Purpose Code by Jordan Grumet. I discovered the book on one of my favorite podcasts, The RV Life Entrepreneur Podcast, where the author was a guest. You can listen to that episode here. Many people struggle with finding their purpose or feel overwhelmed by the pressure to uncover it. What I appreciate about this book is its insight that purpose is something you create rather than something you simply discover. Once you build it, you can connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share your passions.

Finding happiness has never been about creating big audacious goals that we may or may not be able to achieve. True contentment comes from filling our lives with enriching activities that lead to connection and, ultimately, legacy.

- Jordan Grumet

In line with that idea, I’m creating my own “little p” purpose by supporting fellow RVer’s with my new membership, The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!

What’s Included:

🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries

• Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas

• Options for both weekend warriors and full-timers

📖 Book Club for RV Moms

• A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)

• Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book

💬 Private Community Access

• Community of RVing moms just like you!

• Live Q&A and Fireside Chats to talk about life on the road (RV biz, mom life, education, etc.)

Upgrade to Paid to get access to the RV Moms Club (only $40 for a whole year!)