Enjoying the Journey of Life!

Life is funny.

Life brings changes.

For us, change is starting to become come place.......and we are adapting much easier.

Long story short, we have decided to stop traveling full-time.  I know....SHOCKER!

Our decision to travel and explore this wonderful country, has always been a family decision.  We were regularly asking the kids how they liked it, and if they wanted to keep on going.  Every now and then, one of them might have a bad, boring, or lonely kind of day, and want to go home to see their friends or family.  Recently, those feelings started happening more often....even with ME! ;)

I honestly thought I would never have a house again!  I thought I could live in our RV home forever!

But.  As the Lord does, SO many times, HE changed my perspective and gave me new eyes to see.  HE also started working on my kids' desires.

So, we are home. :)  It is a good thing.

We are paying off debt, saving money and seeing friends and family.  We are signing up for camps, sports and home school classes.  We are back in our community and our comfort zone.

We come back home with a fresh perspective, too.

We are blessed.  I mean, really blessed.
We have traveled FULL-TIME, for almost 3 years, as a family, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.  We have experienced this country first-hand and enjoyed so many "firsts!"

We realize the precious time we have been given, but also realize how precious our family and friends are to us as well.

We will miss our friends on the road,( PLEASE come see us!), and we hope to travel again in the future.

Life is funny.  But, life is so good. :)

Here are just a few of our most favorite times on the road:

Many factory tours....

 National Monuments that take your breath away...

Good Ole' Faithful.....

Driving on the GOLDEN Gate Bridge!

Landscapes and natural wonders.....

Laura Ingalls Wilder's home....

Todd skydiving on his 40th birthday!

Countless sunsets...

Trying to hug a Redwood :) 

Sledding at White Sands....

Rock climbing.....

Totally amazing sights....

Tons of hiking trails- CONQUERED!

We have experienced life in its fullest capacity.  Together.   We are so grateful!!

"Happy Trails to you......Until we meet again....."


Blessings,
Steph

2012 Trip Video!!

Here is our "Year in Review!" (Turn the volume up, too!)

Enjoy!

Blessings,
Steph

Rainy Days

I recently had someone ask me, "What do you do on a rainy day?"  Normally, this may not seem like a 'problem' but when there are SEVEN people living in 300 square feet, it is an IMPORTANT question.

If we are in an area that has a history/science museum, then we take advantage of the indoor facilities, and spend the day there, learning and playing till our heart's content.  But, if there is not one, then we have to get creative at home, and get into 'Survival Mode!'

Tanner is taking guitar lessons online, so that is not only giving him something to do on rainy days, but EVERYDAY!  He loves it!  He is also earning a music credit this year for his High School requirements. :)  The girls ALWAYS come up with some kind of creative, art project or just a way to get the table REALLY messy......  :)

Big brother Zach is the BEST at occupying Parker.  :)  He will help him build Bionicles, Legos, or create a Star Wars reenactment to last for hours!  YEAH!  Sometimes, the girls are so impressed by what they are playing, that they will also join in on the fun.

Next thing we know, it is lunch or dinner time, and then the rainy day is gone.  What is hard, is when it lasts for days and days on end!  UG!

That is just plain AWFUL.

Can you say, INSANE?

Seriously.

BUT.  We survive, and get through it, like any other challenge in life.  :)  The Lord is SO good, to stretch us in ways that grow us, and help us to persevere.  It is for my good.......It is for my good......It is for good.......


Blessings,
Steph

Kayaking in Nashville & New Friends!

 Another reason I LOVE traveling, is the people.  Last year, we met some of our dearest friends, with whom we still keep in contact with, and now, this year, it is happening again!  LOVE IT!  We were at the beach one day, minding our own business, when all these cute kids appear with their grandparents. :)  They are all cousins from Indiana, and long story short, we ended up spending the next 4 hours on the beach, and then stayed up late roasting smores.  FUN!

I also love this lifestyle, because it has opened so many doors to new experiences.  The grandparents offered to let our kids ride in their kayaks, and we couldn't pass it up!  It is definitely much harder than it looks.

There they go!

Even Hannah and Emily had a try at it.  :)

On our last day in Nashville, we met another great family from Alabama.  Matthew and Zach hit it off within minutes.

Grandpa Cliff, Grandma Dawn, and the Sides' Family, we can't wait to meet up with you again in Indiana and Alabama.  It was so wonderful to meet you!


Blessings,
Steph

Confidence.....

How confident are you?  I mean, really?

Yesterday, I was washing dishes, and I went outside to check on the girls.  They asked if they could go ride their bikes together, so I said, "Sure."  Todd was outside talking with one of our 'neighbors' and the boys were hanging out in the RV after exploring for a while in the scorching heat.

It did not take long, before I noticed THIS!

Yep.

That is Emily, riding her bike, in public, with CURLERS IN HER HAIR!!!

Seriously?!

I had to capture this moment in time.  How often, in life, are we SO confident, that we honestly don't care what people think!?  To the tune of wearing lime-green curlers in our hair!

I think I need to take a few lessons from her! HA!


Blessings,
Steph

Lift Off!!

I am in shock......

It has been 7 months since we have traveled, and now we are full-timing again!  :)

We actually left yesterday, and only made it 45 minutes down the road to Livingston, TX at the Rainbow's End, Escapees' Campground. Ha!  It was honestly, a VERY stressful situation for a while......

Long story short, we thought there was something TERRIBLY wrong with our truck, hitch or toy-hauler or all THREE!  We felt uneasy how it was riding on the road.  Come to find out, thank the Lord, it is normal to bounce a little when you're pulling 19,000 pounds.  yeah.....we're newbies AGAIN. :)

The change from the Class A to a truck/toy-hauler has been quite the transition, so we are learning the ropes and REALLY being stretched.

I am so thankful for growth and change in my life, but to be honest, it has not been easy.  The Lord is breaking down some very strong walls of pride, baggage and other really messy parts of my life.  I am having to face fears, like anyone else, but it seems like the Lord is putting me into 'overdrive' lately.  Thankfully, I have a loving husband that is NOT giving up on me, and is willing to also grow and change.

  It is amazing what a new day can bring. :)

Now, we are on the road again, and excited about the many new places, people and adventures that await!

Blessings,
Steph

Quick Update

Well, the countdown is ON!

 Four more days, and we are closing on the sale of our home!

Six more days, and we are 'hittin' the road!'


Please, please pray for us!  We are SO anxious to start our next adventure on the road, and pray it all goes with out a hitch......no pun intended.....really......  ;)


Blessings,
Steph

Hard Times

"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9



As I type this post, my heart is heavy, and I am honestly putting my trust in the Lord.



The past few days, have been some of the hardest.  To put it as clearly as possible.....

Our tenants that are renting our home, with out warning, literally HOURS before we were set to start our next traveling adventure, told us that they did not want to renew their lease.  (heart breaking.....can you hear it??)

To say that it was shocking and disappointing is an understatement.  I am still seeking a cheerful heart and peace right now.

Todd has been amazing to say the least.  We decided that we just want to sell the home, and move on with our lives.  Todd has already found a realtor and getting some painting completed this week.   Don't get me wrong, our tenants have paid their rent and kept the home immaculate.  Praise the Lord for that!  And, they DO have every right not to want to renew the contract.  What is saddening, is they knew we were heading out for the road, and decided till the very last minute to tell us.  Why?  I will never have this answer, but what I DO know, is that I serve a great God.  He knows.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5


As a family, we are blessed to have Todd's parents' support and encouragement.  We have a safe place to hang out for a while. :)  Lord willing, it is part of His plan to allow us to sell our home......that is what our heart's desire has been all along.


Please pray!  There is power in prayer!


I know that I am just a speck on this Earth and my measly, little problems are NOTHING compared to so many others'.   But, I also know, that I love a Lord that loves me back.  He even knows how many hairs are on my head!  (even the ones falling out or turning gray!)  He knows how all of this will end up, and I will be stronger for it.  My faith is SO weak.  I truly know that.  He is wanting me to grow and love Him all the more!

When you think of my family, please pray for a clear direction.  We would love to travel again.  Right now, we are living in an RV!!!  An RV is supposed to MOVE!!!  :)
 Life has its bumps in the road, no matter what you live in, but what is going on inside ones heart is the telling sign of faith.  The Lord is growing mine, that is for sure!


Blessings,
Steph

The Shuttle........I Mean, The Truck!

Cowtown Sleepers, in Fort Worth, TX, attached the extra seats in our truck, so that all SEVEN of us can travel together!!  Is this so cool or what?!

I like to call it, "The Shuttle."  :)

This is the view from the back.....  It has its own back door, or you can climb through the crew-cab section.

This is what it looks like from the front seat!  The back section has two seats that face each other.  Our truck actually has enough for 8 people!  LOVE it!

I am now an official, dually-drivin' mama! :)  HA!

Blessings,
Steph

Our New Home on Wheels!!

Well, it has been a process, but it is starting to feel like, 'Home Sweet Home.'  :)

Hopefully, by next week, we will have our extra seats added to the truck.  ;)

Check out the "Our New Home on Wheels" PAGE on the right side bar for more inside pics!!
Hope you enjoy the tour!

Blessings,
Steph

WHOO HOO!!!

Just a quick update!

WE SOLD THE VAN & THE ADMIRAL!!!!!

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!

Soon, in the coming days, I will post pics of our 'new' home on wheels and truck.  ;)

Blessings,
Steph

Terrific Time with the Ticknors!!

About two years ago, I started researching the RV lifestyle.  You see, we had not even CAMPED before we 'hit the road' last March!  HA!  Todd and I had to learn about types of RV's, various equipment, maintenance, organization, traveling, and on and on.  We are still learning, too.  :)

One family seemed to always have the answers we needed, at just the right time, to help us along in our journey.  :)

We FINALLY got to meet this wonderful family and spend most of the day with them!  Can I just say, "What a blessing."  The day was filled with yummy food, swimming, sword fighting, fishing, picnics, football, playing with dolls, action figures, 'school', coloring, and great adult talks filled with advice and encouragement!!

WOW!

You can't help but smile when you're around this little man!  :)

Chow line.....

'Big' men flexing their muscles......

more 'big' men.....  ;)

Parker's reaction in this picture says it all!  It was a fun-filled day!

Ticknor family, we had SUCH a wonderful time with you!  Thank you for your hospitality and friendship.  We sure hope to meet up again on the road one day!

Blessings,
Steph

Happy Birthday Hannah!!!

Our Hannah recently celebrated her birthday.  :)  I just want to cry......
I still remember holding her, just days after she was born, thanking the Lord for such a sweet gift.  Hannah was my first home birth, and she is my first little girl.  She is our 'naturally' foo-foo- loving, bow-wearing-all things-pink and fancy, kind of girlie-girl.  :)

But, look out boys, cause she will give you a run for your money, when it comes to running races, catching frogs, and simply fascinated with BUGS!  EEEWWWW......


Hannah is also our creative child. ;)
For each of the kids' birthdays, they choose the menu for the day.
Here is Hannah's Menu:

Breakfast: Cinnamon Rolls, strawberries and grape juice
Lunch: Grilled Cheese, ham, fruit salad and orange juice
Dinner: Hot dogs with Chili, and Smoothies

Hannah did not want the traditional cake and icecream this year!  She wanted pinapple, strawberry, and blueberry smoothies instead.  :)
We still had the candle though!  HA!

She got a baby bed for her baby doll.  ;)

And, a unicorn pillow pet.  ;)

Happy Birthday Hannah!  We love you so much!

Blessings,
Steph

Fun with the Zavocki Family!!!

We have wanted to meet up with this sweet family for the LONGEST time!  Well, it finally happened!  Not on the road, either, but while we are here at HOME!  HA!
They were making their way through Texas, and we hooked up last week! YEAH!

The Zavocki's invited us to the condo where they were staying, and we enjoyed a night full of swimming, (in a heated pool), sharing stories and advice, and a REALLY , lively game of 'Hide-n-go-Seek' in their cabin. :)

There is something special about swimming in February!  Yeah for heated pools!!!

 This BIG moth was 'hanging' out outside their cabin.  :)  I kept reminding Zach to leave it alone.....this one does NOT need to be dissected.  :)

Our sweet, little men.  ;)

Zavocki family, thank you SO very much for the great time!  It was such a blessing to meet you and share our 'stories.'  Hopefully, we can meet up on the road one day and conquer a hike together!

Blessings,
Steph

SLASHING PRICES!!!!

Just wanted to let you know that we have dropped the price on our Class A motorhome and the Toyota Sienna!!!  Below are the links to each of them on Craig's List:

Here is the Van

Here is the Admiral


Just a quick update on us, too!

We are here in Texas, hanging out, busy with school, and catching up with friends and family as much as humanly possible! :)  We have bought a "new to us" truck and a "new to us" toy-hauler.  We have been REALLY busy moving, cleaning, organizing and repairing our new home to accommodate this lively, seven-member family!  :)

Houston weather has been so gloomy with rain, so I have been waiting for some sunshine to share pictures!  Hopefully, I will get these this week!


Blessings,
Steph

Do you need a new van??

We are selling our van!!  There are a lot of changes happening in our family lately.  ;)

We decided that we need to sell our Class A motorhome, and sell our van, a Toyota Sienna, so that we can transition into a toyhauler fifth-wheel and pull it with a truck.  We found our new toy hauler and truck within 2 weeks!  It is so exciting to have what we need for the long- haul, no pun intended!  But, now we are needing to sell our motorhome and our beloved van.  We don't need two vehicles, since our truck will seat all 7 of us safely.

I thought I would share some of these details with you, so that you can PRAY for us during this transition.  Please pray that the Lord would provide the right buyer for both vehicles.  Please pray that He would be gracious, and sell them SOON!  :)

Below is a link to our Craig's List ad with many details about the van.

http://collegestation.craigslist.org/cto/2807308099.html


Thanks so much for your prayers!
Blessings,
Steph

How to fit a family of 7 into a truck!?!

WOW!
I had no idea that so many would be interested in our future vehicle!  Thank you for your concern and curiosity.  :)

I thought I would share with you how ALL 7 of us will fit into a truck, so that we can pull a toy-hauler.

Cowtown Sleepers can add anything you need to an existing truck!  We will be purchasing a crew cab, that would normally fit 6 people, and have Cowtown add the Road Runner sleeper with seats option and back door, to fit up to 8 people!  :)

Here is a link to their website: Link

Hope that helps!

As we make changes, I will share more and more.  :)

Blessings,
Steph

Changes are Happening! Rig For Sale!!!

YEP.  That is right!
We are moving into a new home!


A new home on wheels, that is!  HA!
After spending a year in our Class A motorhome, we have decided to get a toy-hauler, fifth wheel, for our family of 7, to have PLENTY of room.  :)

We love to travel and decided to continue this awesome lifestyle.  The kids are only getting bigger, so we started looking into toy-haulers.

There are many details that are still needing to be worked out before we hit the road again, but I thought I'd share what has been going on lately.  We are really excited, and when we get the new home, I will post pictures!

If you or someone you know might be interested in buying our motorhome, please email me at stephlgolden@yahoo.com

Below, is a link to the craig's list listing:

http://houston.craigslist.org/rvs/2784905294.html


If you have any questions, let me know!

Blessings,
Steph

2011 Travel Review & Video!!

We have been home a week, already, and it has been so great to see family and friends!  Everyone is so encouraging and asking about our travels, ya know, 'where did you go?' or 'what was your favorite state?' but it is honestly ridiculously, difficult to sum up our travels in one year, to ONE favorite!  :)

Each state, each town, each place had something worth while, special or exciting!  Really!

We left on March 19th, 2011 and landed safely back home on December 9th.

Here is a quick view of the last 9 month adventure!

*35 National Parks

*10 State Parks

*4 Zoos & Aquariums

*35 Museums

*3 Amusement Parks

*5 Factory Tours

Countless hiking, swimming, town fairs, rodeos, beaches, lighthouses, white-water rafting, flying planes and jumping out of planes!

All I can say is, "WOW!"  "I am truly, truly grateful.
  I put together a video of our journey on the road, and hope it stirs your heart to something exciting, maybe for the coming year!  2012 is just around the corner!! :)  Enjoy!

It is has been a 'Great Adventure!' :)

Blessings,
Steph

My Favorite Season of the Year!!

Even though we live in an RV, does not mean we can not get in the Christmas spirit, right?!

We have been home 4 days, and I've started the decorating process!  Yeah!
Another great thing about living in a small space, is you don't need a whole lot to fill the home.  :)

A little garland, bows and balls, and it's starting to look a lot like Christmas!  :)

Stockings hung with care!  ;)

I love Christmas time!

Blessings,
Steph