I am WOKE

I’m OK being called WOKE!

Over the last couple of years several people have attempted to insult me by calling me ‘WOKE’.

According to Merriam-Webster, woke is define as ‘aware of and actively attentive to important societal facts and issues (especially issues of racial and social justice’

I really don’t think those using the word woke as an insult understand its meaning, or if they are just following the crowd that thinks that being woke is an insult, or they are just too ignorant to care.

Being aware of and actively attentive to important societal facts and issues is a good thing, a very good thing! I think it's sad and very self-centered not to be aware of and care about what’s going on in our society. Turning a blind to those things that impact our fellow citizens and fellow human beings is very sad. We need to stand together and help each other, not insult and hurt each other!

So when/where did ‘being woke’ become wrong? 

Stickers on my RV

Not my RV

I see so many rigs driving around with stickers all over them, fine for them but not my style. I really don’t like putting a lot of stickers on my RV, but I have put a few on it that have so much meaning to me. 

The first sticker is OCRK, Oceanfront Camping at Reach Knolls, my absolute favorite place to stay. Why you may ask…the people, the weather, the views, the peace and serenity. I can’t say enough about it.

The next sticker is ‘I was Blessed in ’22. I was parked overnight at Katy Community Fellowship, in Katy Texas and in the morning they were having a men’s breakfast at the church so I walked over and joined them. There was a gentleman there that attends motorcycle rallies and blesses the riders and their bikes. I asked him if he’s ever blessed an RV and he said no but he would be happy to after breakfast. All the guys came out and laid hands on the RV and said a prayer for me and the RV. Pretty neat!

The Yellow Bird is in honor/memory of my pal’s daughter, Mallory, that died way too young. She loved yellow birds and it is very significant to her father and family. He told me a very moving story about a yellow bird that showed up after her funeral and I’ve never forgotten that story. The yellow bird reminds me to appreciate everyday and make the most of it!

If you want to help end addiction consider donating to www.drugfree.org

The Willie sticker is the name of my RV which I named after my dear friend Bill. When someone told me I was supposed to name my RV, why I have no idea, naming after my pal was an easy decision. I know he’s always with me and watching out over me. Love you and miss you pal!

These 4 stickers are on the rear of my rig. I do have map of the USA on the side of the rig that shows the states that I have visited in the RV. This was a gift from the couple that I bought the RV from. I’ve traveled to 46 states and have 3 to go…Hawaii would be fun but hardly drivable in the RV!

                            DESTINATION UNKNOWN

 

What's on my iPhone and iPad - My most used Apps

Find my device - I'll admit I've lost/misplaced my devices more than once since I've been traveling full-time. Usually it's my iPhone, but I've also needed to locate my iPad and MacBook on a few occasions. 

This app has saved me many times.

AllTrails - This is my goto app for finding and navigating trails. You can search for trails in your local area or just about anywhere. You can download your trails to use off-line, it keeps you on track while on the trail, and provides stats while you're hiking.

Goodnotes -  Good notes allows you to either type or write on your device.

I use it for journaling, todo lists, etc. I also download all my manuals to it so I can take notes and highlight important sections. I use this app daily.

Blue Beacon - My favorite place to get my RV washed. They do a fantastic job, even spraying the undercarriage, and dousing my roof and solar panels.

The app gives you directions to the nearest location and lists the services available.

iOverlander 2 - My favorite app to find places to boondock. Users add places you can park overnight for free. It also will show you where you can dump your tanks, get fresh water, do laundry, and many other things you need while on the road. 

Google Maps - This is my primary mapping/routing app. Gives me all the information I need to travel, including things to do, route options, option to avoid highways and toll roads, etc.

Google Earth - I use this in addition to Google Maps to get an overview of the area I am hiking, camping, traveling through. I like that I can zoom in and see what the terrain looks like and get a good clear view at street level.

Kindle for iPad- While I like to read out of physical books, I have moved almost everything to my iPad to save space and weight. I read all the time and love reading on the iPad. I have library cards for several libraries around the country so I can borrow books wherever I am. 

Merlin Bird ID - This is a fun app to ID birds from the sounds they make. You can record the sounds and then it will tell you what you are hearing. Neat and interesting app.

Apple Weather App - There are probably better weather apps but I really like the simplicity of this app. Provides the information I need, including wind, visibility and precipitation. I like that I can add multiple locations to keep updated on weather conditions in other area.

Worship 24/7 - Online radio station that plays worship music 24/7. I love to start my morning listening to Worship 24/7. Their mission is to ignite a passion for God through worship that results in a life of discipleship, evangelism, generosity and service. www.worship247.com

YouTube - My source for entertainment and learning about RVing and a bunch of other things I'm curious about. I have a short attention span so YouTube is perfect for me. Plus it's free!

Gasbuddy - This a fuel app where I get discounts anywhere from $.03-.30/gallon. I can also use it for other purchases since it is a MasterCard and it will give me additional fuel discounts.

Harvest Host - I pay an annual fee to be a member but it gives me access to over 5,000 places to boondock/camp for free. They ask that you patronize that business (suggested $20-30) that is hosting you. I've stayed at alpaca farms, horse ranches, wineries, churches, museums, and many more awesome places. https://www.harvesthosts.com/?refid=ctde6mwb 

Walmart - I use the Walmart app in two ways. In a pinch, if all else fails, I can locate a store near my current location and stay in the parking lot overnight. I use this as a last resort if my other plans don't work out. Additionally I use the app for curbside pickup. I can place my order for supplies from the parking lot and pick them up first thing in the morning before hitting the road.

Rec.gov - This is the Federal Government's site for everything recreational. National Parks, BLM Areas, Army Corp of Engineers Areas, and National Forest Service Areas. You can search specific parks, reserve campsites, find trail maps, and get general information about area. 

Apple Podcasts App - I download podcasts whenever I have WiFi so I can listen to them on the road or in the evenings when I don't have cell service. Podcasts keep me entertained and I have also listened to them to learn a few things!

Apple App Store - I'm an Apple guy so all these are available in the App Store. I assume they are available in the Google Play Store as well.

My Absolute Favorite Campground in the USA

This isn’t a paid or sponsored endorsement…although I did get a free hat! :-) 

I have stayed in campgrounds around the country, although I typically prefer boondocking.  I typically book a campground site once a month for a night or two just to recharge myself and my RV.

In my ‘unbiased’ opinion Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls (OCRK) in Brooklin, Maine is the absolute best place to stay! I rate it 9 stars out of 5. 

I found OCRK 3 years ago online, I was waiting around for my brother and his family to arrive in Bar Harbor for their vacation and just needed a place to post up for a few nights.

I emailed Lori, the owner (more about her and her husband and mom Carol later) and inquired about staying for a few nights. She replied that they had an opening on my requested days and that I was all set. I responded asking her about a deposit, every campground I’ve stayed at requires a deposit, she replied that they ‘kick it old school, no deposit required just show up’ WOW

Last year I booked a site for 2 weeks and ended up staying 6 weeks, mainly because the people/place is so awesome. Added bonus is the weather is perfect here in the summer, rarely gets close to 80 degrees here!

This year I didn’t mess around and booked 2 months right from the jump and I’m so glad I did. What a perfect summer retreat.

So why is OCRK so amazing? The owners, Lori and Paul and her mom Carol are the simply the BEST!

Lori handles the office. She’s kind, efficient, knowledgeable, and gives great hugs to all her guests!

Paul handles everything outside. Mowing the grass, maintenance, firewood cutting, and he has some great stories, especially the ones about his time in the Coast Guard…and the time he gave his weapon to the enemy! 

Carol does everything else around the property. Cleaning, sweeping, and chatting with everyone. Rusty and Judy help out around the campground too, making sure everything is perfect.

It’s one big happy family!

They made me feel like family from my very first visit. They have created a very special place here for people to camp, relax, enjoy the beach, and to just chill.

It’s a small campground with about 40 sites scattered amongst the trees, a combination of tent sites and RV sites. There is electric at the sites but no water or sewer connections. There is a place to fill up water and dump your tanks right at the office, so no issues there…and the water is excellent! The office has a bunch of free books and DVD’s to use or take along with you, maps of the area and a good list of restaurants to check out.

The sites are spread out so you’re not packed in like sardines. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. The outhouses/privies are the cleanest I’ve ever seen and the outdoor showers (free) are wonderfully relaxing with unlimited hot water. Firewood is available and it’s cheap. 

There is a great place to sit and look over the Reach and watch the sunset..one of my favorite spots. The trail down to the beach is great and the furthest site is only 950 feet from the beach. There is also a swim float/platform just off the beach to enjoy. There are several sites that overlook the water but they do
book up fast!

If you like lobster, they have a lobsterman that lives on the property and will deliver fresh, just off the boat lobsters directly to your site. They have pots to cook your lobster in, shell crackers, and picks to use, and a great recipe, all in the office for guests to use.

The location is excellent, 20 minutes to Blue Hill, 15 minutes to Deer Isle and 30 minutes to Stonington on Deer Isle, 45 minutes to Ellsworth, and 1 hour and 15 minutes to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. You have all the beauty of Maine without the crowds and traffic!

If you want a relaxing weekend, week, or like me an entire summer, Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls is the best place!

There are so many repeat guests you better make your reservations for the 2026 season soon to get the days you want. 

Contact Lori at Oceanfront Camping @ Reach Knolls at:

Phone: 207-359-5555

Email: oceanfrontcamping@reachknolls.com

Website: reachknolls.com

Owners Lori & Paul Gallo began building OCRK in 2014 on Lori's grandparent's property. Opening in 2015, Lori fulfilled her grandfather's dream by inviting guests to experience this magical corner of paradise on the Maine coast.

I guarantee you will absolutely LOVE IT! 

1000 Days on the Road - 25 Things I've Learned

I left ‘normal’ life on October 10, 2022 and headed out on my journey. I’ve put 60,000+ on my rig and have visited 46 of our states. What a great journey it’s been.

What I’ve Learned….

1. We have a beautiful country

Our country is filled with amazing places and sights. From the oceans to the mountains to the rivers and the deserts, the US is absolutely stunning. I’ve really appreciated all the beauty our country has to offer. 

2. We have a county filled with great people

In over 1000 days on the road I can honestly say that I have only encountered/interacted with 2 people that weren’t very nice. One was a person that accused me of taking her free camping spot in the desert and the other was a drunk guy that I hadn’t seen in over a year and he apparently didn’t like my posts on social media and he shoved me into a wall outside of a pizza place in Quartzsite Arizona. 

Other than those two isolated situations, I have met so many awesome, helpful and caring people from all over the country and that makes me happy! 

3. Make friends

I’ve been very blessed to have met some really great people of the road. Some have become dear friends and others I just met in passing but remember a shared moment together. I absolutely love meeting people and having a conversation with them. I’ve learned so much from these encounters. 

4. Reconnect with old friends

It’s been wonderful reconnecting with old friends and colleagues on my travels. Many have reached out to me after they see that I am heading in their direction from my social media posts and ask if I would like to stop by! I also use social media to see where friends live and send a message to them seeing if they want to meet up. This has definitely been a blessing to reconnect! 

5. It’s ok not to have cell coverage/internet

Many times on my travels I’m without cell coverage/internet and that’s ok, actually it’s great. It’s refreshing and heathy to be disconnected. I do my best to let my emergency contacts know I’ll be off line for a few days so they know that I’m not going to be in contact. I can use the iPhone satellite feature for emergencies and I also have a Garmin inReach mini for emergencies and trail safety. This communicates via satellite and it allows me to send brief text messages to let people know where I am and when I expect to be off the trail/hike. It has an SOS feature that pinpoints my location and will alert the authorities.

6. Go slow

I typically drive about 2.5-3 hours a day. I fill the rest of the day with a hike and/or a stop at a museum or historic site. I’ve learned to take my time and really appreciate the day!

7. Take pictures

I’ve taken 19,000+ pictures on my iPhone since starting this journey. I really enjoy sharing them with others on Facebook or Instagram. I also take time to look back at them regularly to remind me of all the amazing things our country has to offer. I’ve also learned to put the camera down and be in the moment, to appreciate the beauty and let it burn into your memory. 

Now that I have a new camera and a few lenses I’ll probably be taking more pictures but will still set it aside to enjoy the moment(s).

8. Use a fuel app

By far, my biggest monthly expense is fuel. I have found that the GasBuddy app to be the best for saving money. I get discounts from between 2 cents and up to 30 cents a gallon which can make for some good savings. I also have several gas station apps that I use with the GasBuddy app to save even more money. Shell, Chevron and Sinclair apps can save me an additional 5 cents per gallon in my experience.

9. Use a Garmin GPS

I usually use Google Maps on my iPhone for route planning but it doesn’t work without cell service. About 2 years ago I got a Garmin GPS that has been great. The one I have has been very good, but they have an RV model that will route you around roads that aren’t good for your rig. You enter your rigs height, width, and length and it will put you on the roads that can accommodate your rig.

10. Meet people

See #2 above. Meeting people on the road is one of the best/rewarding things about being a full time nomad

11. Stay off the highways

I have set my Google Maps to avoid highways and toll roads. I really enjoy traveling on the smaller, wondering roads around the country and really see the country. It may not help my fuel mileage but the rewards far outweigh a few extra dollar of diesel. The roads are more beautiful, I can drive slower, I get to see more, and it’s not nearly as stressful as traveling on the highways.

12. Google Maps 

This is my go to map application/website. There are great options for routing, ability to drop pins for interesting places, things to do along/near planned route, and a bunch of other features that has been very useful in my travels.

13. Visit small towns

Small towns are the best. The locals have been very welcoming and are very interested in hearing about my travels and what it's like to live in an RV. I have found them to be very generous with their time and sharing information about their town and the surrounding area. They know how to have honest, open and sincere conversations. Good people!

I also love small town museums and libraries. You get to learn about the local history and the libraries don’t mind me hanging out to use the internet to do some research or download some movies.

14. Get out and walk or hike

I find that I feel much better and have a better day if I get out for a walk or hike first thing in the morning. It makes me happier and healthier and I get out and about and see some interesting things.

15. Don’t plan too far ahead 

I’ve learned not to plan too far in advance. Sometimes it’s unavoidable, like my travels over to Newfoundland next month where I'm doing a lot of planning, but I usually only plan out a day or two because something always comes up, weather, an interesting alternative route or some other distraction. I typically only plan the area I want to stay in the next night, use AllTrails to find a good hike on my route, use Google to find a museum or something else of interest to do in the afternoon and then find a place to stay for the night. Keep it simple

16. Quirky is good

By searching Google, asking locals, and traveling at a slower pace I have come across some cool and quirky places. The world’s largest paper cup, eternal flame inside a grotto under a waterfall, a library that straddles the US/Canadian border, World Champion Chainsaw carving contest, odd sculpture gardens, climb an old fire watch tower, and so much more. I always am able to find something cool and quirky along the way.

17. Less is more

When I left Virginia almost 3 years ago I packed a lot into my rig, too much in fact. I’ve been slowly getting rid of unnecessary things (but still find myself buying unnecessary things from Amazon). I still have way too many clothes on board. This causes two issues, added weight and too much laundry. I’ve been working on donating some clothes to Goodwill or shelters but have a long way to go. This summer I’m doing a pretty good job of purging things, but that damn Amazon site is so appealing.

18. Don’t trust your tank gauges

RVs and travel trailers are notorious for having horrible tank sensors for showing your tank levels. The black tank is the one to be most aware of, you don’t want that overflowing! The most accurate way to check the level in the black tank is to look down the toilet with a flashlight to see how full you are. Some people are freaked about doing this but it definitely outweighs having it overflow. The gray water tank levels are usually very similar in my usage experience so I gauge that off the black tank. I only use my freshwater tank for showers and washing dishes and that gauge is usually more accurate so it hasn’t been an issue.

19. Podcasts make the driving better

I rarely listened to podcasts prior to hitting the road, but now I am addicted to them. I can download my favorites when I have cell coverage and listen to them when I am driving in the middle of nowhere.

I really enjoy true crime podcasts, CaseFile being my favorite. Others I enjoy are Dateline, The Best Idea Yet, What it was Like, Against the Odds and American Scandal. I do listen to some educational podcasts too.

20. Lots of free apps

I have a huge list of free/cheap apps that I use regularly. I am working on a separate blog to go through the ones I find the most useful and beneficial to my travels.

21. Ask for Help/Ask Questions

I’ve learned it’s better to ask for help than try to fix/repair something I'm not sure about, even asking for directions is easy these days.

When I am in a small town or way off the beaten path I try to find a local to ask what there is to do in their area. I have found some really neat places that aren’t on any map or in any guide book. People love to share and tell you about themselves or about local history or unique things to do/see in the town/area. Haven’t been misguided/misinformed yet!

22. Take a day off

This may sound strange because most of my friends tell me I am on a never-ending vacation so why would I need a day off? Sometimes I just don’t want to drive anywhere so I’ll find a nice place to park and pull out my chair and enjoy a good book or just look at the scenery. For most of the year, around 8-9 months, I am on the road everyday to a new place. So I find it important to take a day off the road just kicking back.

23. Be patient

I am very good at being patient these days. (I wasn’t always like this). I don’t have a strict schedule so traffic, detours, or situationally unaware people don’t bother me. I take my time and am not in any rush to get anywhere. I try to enjoy every moment of everyday. Life is better that way!

24. Do something new/different

Go zip-lining, find a waterfall to sit near, go skydiving, do an adventure course, visit a small town church, walk through a lavender field, find a bench to sit on and people watch, walk down a dirt road, watch a parade, go on a boat ride, stop at a roadside picnic bench for lunch, learn to blow glass, strike up a conversation with a stranger…there is so much out there to experience and learn about. 

25. Have FUN!

Having fun is always a good things. Smiling and laughing is always a good thing, except in courtrooms or at a funeral! My day is always better when I smile or make someone else smile! 

Not everyday is easy but even on the harder days I try not to take myself or my situation too seriously, everything will be okay!

Bonus - I’ve found Canadians to be awesome too!