Trading Possessions for Freedom: Why we Decided to Full-Time RV (Part 1)

  

In our wild two-year ride through the nomadic, full-time RV lifestyle, folks have dubbed us impulsive, crazy, lucky, and inspiring. But you know the term that captures it for me? "Blessed."

Despite the growing popularity of this lifestyle in recent years, it remains highly unconventional, sparking numerous questions from those we encounter. The most common inquiries include: why we chose it, how we manage it, when we plan to stop, and whether we have any regrets. I'll be addressing these questions in the coming days, so stay tuned.

First- The Why

1. Seven years ago, we embarked on the journey of homeschooling and unexpectedly fell IN LOVE with it- particularly for the freedom it provided:

The freedom to explore museums, beaches, and trails on weekdays when the crowds were sparse. 

The freedom to cultivate learning through new experiences, people, and places.

The Freedom to teach to my children's unique interests and proficiency levels.

The Freedom to instill in them confidence- not just worldly confidence, but confidence of who they are in the eyes of Jesus.

I cherished the notion that my children could walk the steps of Paul Revere, witness the ballroom George Washington danced, and fish the rivers explored by Lewis and Clark. It was important to me that they grasp the terrain and weather challenges that our forefathers overcame through faith. The idea that my children would form friendships with individuals from all walks of life, across the country, greatly appealed to me.

2. I admittedly have a gypsy soul and am prone to wanderlust.

I have always been this way, wanting to go and see something new, I am one of "those people" that actually love change.

Staying in one place my whole life felt stifling. I understand that many people thrive in that lifestyle, contributing as valuable members to their neighbors and community. If you resonate with this, please know you are essential and unique in your role.

Everybody has different seasons of life, and right now people might not understand our season- and that's okay! Just like God made you with your special thoughts, beliefs, and desires on purpose, He made me and my family who we are on purpose, too. I knew I had to stop letting society tell us how to live and take a chance on something different.

We were blessed with so much! We had a big house, vehicles that filled our 3 car garage and clothes that took up every space of our walk in closet. I was grateful, but it just wasn't what I truly desired.

In contrast, my husband found comfort in our regular routine and stable life. When I suggested selling our home, acquiring an RV, and quitting his job, he thought I was crazy. To be fair, I had never been a fan of camping in a trailer, which probably fueled his perception that I'd lost my mind.

You might wonder, what made him change his mind? 

He often says, "I had a bad day at work."

Despite the situation, I think it's because he genuinely loves me, sensed a feeling of confinement, and experienced a gentle nudge from God in his heart too.

3. The most important "why" is because God told me to.

I know this because I just couldn't shake the thought. It excited me to the core, even though I was terrified.

Terrified at the thought of having no job security.

Terrified that I would destroy my kids by uprooting them from family, friends, and activities.

Terrified that living in a fifth wheel might be unbearable.

Terrified of my kids having to share a small space in their pre-teen and teenage years.

But... When I prayed and journaled, God gave me peace. He reminded me that having faith in Him meant living it. 

To ease my fears, God brought encouraging people into my life. We even re-connected with a family who was living this lifestyle with four small boys. They shared their experiences, good and bad, and answered my financial questions. 

In prayer, I asked God to make this life possible, thinking it was my idea. Now, humbly, I realize it was His plan all along.

Check out Part Two: How We are Able to Full Time RV

Bible Verse of the Day

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Reflection

• I pray that this verse brings you the comfort and confidence it has brought me.

• My hope is that you will have the courage to lean into God's plan for your life, so you can watch Him transform not only you, but the people He blesses through you.

• I still wrestle with God over control... Even though I wholeheartedly want His will for my life and my family's life. Even though I know fully well His way is the only good way. Unfortunately, my human nature takes over at times- wanting to avoid the necessary trials.

• May we remember in hard times that Jesus understands the earthly pains of betrayal, hurt, and humiliation. He promises to stand by us and comfort us in these struggles, in order to grow us into the people He created us to be.

Be brave, make the scary choice, live a life set apart because God delights in you. He wants to give you a life so inspired that it points others to Him.

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