Lessons from the Road with Big Blue

The novice motor home or RV enthusiasts, like Meg and I, learned the hard way that we had to slow down. We have learned many lessons as we travel our beautiful country. Many of them because of our adventurous spirit, translation—miscalculations and “I can get through there.” Yes, Meg drives Big Blue just like she drives her Mini, LOL.

Initially, we were compelled to stuff as much as we could into our itinerary, which was exhausting. We soon paid the price, well, Meg did, since I’m just along for the ride. Truth be told, we felt as though time would not afford us the opportunity. Yet here we are three years later. In this time, we have logged over 35,000 miles in Big Blue. This is impressive, given that Meg is the only driver, and on top of the driving, planning, scheduling, setup/tear down, refueling, maintenance, troubleshooting, meal prep, shopping, socializing… Catch breath. There is also taking care of a disabled, pushy, stubborn, moody, forgetful, self-absorbed ALS, half cripple… Me!

Our travels have certainly not been without challenges, but they have also brought us immense joy and unforgettable experiences. Every mile on the road has taught us something new, from the importance of slowing down to appreciating the moments that make this journey worthwhile.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our travels has been the opportunity to meet incredible people along the way. Many of our favorite memories include members of our ALS community and family, meaning you. If you are reading this and you have met us on the road during our travels, please leave a comment sharing your experience meeting us.

I will share with you that Meg and I get excited and honestly, nervous, when we arrive at a destination and have plans to meet someone. There is a mix of individuals that we meet: zoom friends, fellow advocates, military friends/prior co-workers, and social media acquaintances (total strangers). Several times, Meg had to ask, “and how do you know this person we are meeting?” I respond, “oh, I don’t know them, I just met them on FB.”

Traveling in Big Blue has also allowed us to explore the diverse and scenic landscapes of our country. We’ve driven through majestic mountains, vast deserts, charming small towns, and bustling cities. Each place has its own unique character and beauty, and we have embraced the opportunity to immerse ourselves in these different environments.

One of the most important lessons we have learned is the value of flexibility and adaptability. Despite meticulous planning, things don’t always go as expected. Sometimes, we encounter road closures, inclement weather, or unexpected detours. It’s during these times that our ability to adapt and remain positive truly shines. We’ve discovered hidden gems and spontaneous adventures that we would have missed had everything gone according to plan.

The camaraderie among fellow travelers has been another highlight of our journey. The RV community is a tight-knit group, filled with individuals who are always ready to lend a hand, share a story, or offer advice. We’ve formed lasting friendships with people from all walks of life, united by our love for the open road and the freedom it represents.

In addition to the social aspect, traveling in an RV has given us a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the sunrise over a serene lake, or sharing a meal with newfound friends under a starlit sky, these moments remind us of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in the everyday.

Of course, none of this would be possible without Meg’s remarkable dedication and hard work. She handles the driving, planning, and countless other tasks with unwavering determination, all while providing care and support for me. Her resilience and love are the foundation of our journey, and I am endlessly grateful for everything she does.

As we continue our travels, we look forward to the adventures that lie ahead. We are excited to explore new destinations, meet more incredible people, and create lasting memories. Each day on the road is a new opportunity to learn, grow, and appreciate the beauty of life.

To all our friends, family, and fellow travelers, thank you for being part of our journey. Your support, encouragement, and companionship mean the world to us. If you see Big Blue rolling into your town, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to connect and share in the joy of the open road.

Happy travels, and remember to slow down and smell the exhaust!

TJO