Why we Quit full time RV Life… All good things must come to an end!
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- Опубликовано: 26 окт 2024
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Full Time RVing is not for everyone. And it’s not for all seasons of life. In this video, the RV Odd Couple look back on why they started RVing in the first place. Then they share a monumental pivot impacting their lives, and the future of the this channel!
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We’re the RV Odd Couple. We sold our house and most of all our possessions to live in an RV, pursuing freedom, independence and adventure. We documented the process to transition into full-time RV living with our family and experienced the RV travel mistakes. This channel provides valuable trailer travel tips and tricks, RV life basics, and motorhome beginners tips. We upload fifth wheel RV vlog adventures as we travel the country! If you’re into traveling vlogs, RV country traveling, or want to start full time RV living on the right foot, join on the adventure of our lives.
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#rvlife #rvliving #rvpark
Thank you to everyone who has supported our journey❤️ Our job now is maximum service to God and those around us🙏
Is this a “Goodbye” to the RV Odd Couple subscribers?
@@brucestorey917 No... just the next season in the ongoing journey
Glad to see you two are still doing well. I am curious about John's older children. How are things in their lives and do they visit you guys ? Or is that not a proper subject ?
Thank you for sharing the ups and downs, and being brutally honest. Also thank you for sharing your story. What an accomplishment to be sober for so long, keep fighting the good fight “together.” I had a family member loose that fight while I was a kid. So understand that the fight is never over. You got this.
Cool.
Huge respect for two people who can share such raw information about their lives like this. Probably one of the most honest channels on YT.
Thank you John❤️
I'm a public-school teacher. Kids are not getting an education, either skill wise or morally. It's a sad place and 80% of parents don't really care. They aren't engaged and they constantly complain when you try to correct their child for not having manners, etc. They just want little Johnny to have an easy path through school and to be allowed to run free without learning boundaries. I have 3 years left to retirement. I hope I make it without choking some moron administrator. The administrators are taking "wokeness" to crazy levels. You are doing the right thing for your child. We will live in a much less prosperous country in the next 10-20 years (whenever we go broke from printing money we don't have). China, all of Asia and much of Europe are actually educating their kids and ours are being left in a position where they won't have the skills to compete in the world economy. Most kids in our nation learn to read decently well, but they have horrible communication skills (written and verbal) and math skill. It's so sad that our leaders don't have the courage to speak up instead of just pandering for votes. America is not the greatest country on earth anymore (as a whole). Our people are mostly spoiled, self-absorbed and feel entitled; our leaders are either too stupid to know it or lack the courage to speak to the problems we have. 20% of Americans are still the best people on earth, but we are on a sinking ship. God Bless You all. Educate your child so she will have the skills to survive and prosper.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and thoughts here Bob❤️ I would love to sit around a fire with you!!! It’s disgusting what are leaders (both sides) have done to this once great country. Keep the Faith!
Sad but 100% truth.
Thank you for being a good teacher.
Absolutely 1000% true and accurate prediction of what will be coming down the road for this nation and its citizens. We can hardly compete in today's marketplace and can only imagine what will happen when this crop of kids get to be middle age and they don't have the skills to be competing internationally!!! They're not all going to be reality TV stars, social media influencers, RUclips stars etc!!!! The companies in this country will collapse from lack of skilled workers at all levels and this will make those companies fail in the marketplace!!!
Truth and that's why I pulled my kids out and homeschooled.
I know how hard sobriety can be, I had black outs nightly and lost everything except my job. My personal Manager picked me up from jail and drove me 4 hours to a VA hospital rehab in Pittsburg PA. He was My Guardian Angel he knew this was not who I was and by the grace of God tried to save me. I have been strait and sobor for more than 30 years now and getting close to retire. My Wife and I have been planning for a couple years now to sell our home and live the RV boondocking life. We aren't new to camping at all and love it. We are looking forward to our Journy and thanks to people like you, I feel confident our journey will be great. I am great at fixing things and have completely remodeled our home, increasing its value by more than 100 grand. I will install a solar system myself in the Class A that will make us 100% self-sufficient and never need to plug in. Thank you for sharing a small part of your life with us all. God Bless.
I despise that saying, “All good things must come to an end.” This is not true. All good things lead to better things.
We like like both 😀
Well said!
No they don't, that means when you're old it's the best time. Doesn't happen.
Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to your purpose.
@@sammorris9609 Still waiting.
This is why I continue to choose the RV Odd Squad. Y'all are real, transparent, whether in service to God or toward others.
The Lord takes us through seasons (Ecc 3), with His purpose for us, in His wisdom and plan. The more we let go of our plans and simply say; "God, what would you have us do?", the more we grow, that is, our heart longing more for what He wants for us rather than what we want for ourselves. This is where y'all are at & it shows.
Grateful to have you with us David❤️ God Bless you as well 🙏
Wow, as someone that celebrates 21 years clean and sober this September, this post really means a lot to me. We have loved and watched you guys for almost 3 years of your journey . Due to my continuing health issues we are putting up our RV for sale and moving back into the sticks and bricks. We will continue to be a part of the odd family and you three will always be in our prayer. God Bless
We had a felling Alan ❤️❤️❤️ God is good
My grandson has Autism Spectrum Disorder. You discussing your daughter brought tears to my eyes but they are tears of JOY......thank you and God Bless.
I want to come up and see you guys one day. I’m going through a hard time right now my wife has helped me so much been right by my side through this whole thing. I’ll tell you what happened. I had a a bad stomach ache couldn’t eat so my wife took me to the doctor they checked me out ran a scan on me and told me I had cancer stage 4 that I only had 2 years to live. We were lost didn’t know what to do we went to different Dr. To see what they say I finely talked to Stanford and told them I just needed a chance so they took over and put me on chemo 12 chemo treatments it was the hardest time in my life. Lost over a 100 pounds almost died ended up in the hospital then I started getting better the Dr that told me I only had 2 years to live changed his mine said I was doing good and the cancer was shrinking now I’m on a different chemo. Tuesday I talk to Stanford I just did a pet scan so Tuesday is a big day for me I find out if I get to have my surgery to take out what’s left of the cancer I have faith in god I have started praying before I go to bed me and my wife. So I’m hoping everything goes good and one day I can buy a RV and head up to see you guys love and respect for you guys
Hang in there and keep the Faith
Sending prayers
We are at Stanford too. Chemo just stsrted and and hoping to RV in between treatments. Need a chance to see the world in a safe environment. But its hard to pull the trigger and buy. So i watch a few Rv odd squads and hope one day to meet up. Thanks RV odd squad for always making this entertaining. Keep in your flow...we will follow.
Wishing you good health and a bright future.
Thank all you guys it’s been the hardest time of my life tomorrow is a big day I talk to Stanford to see if I get my operation I’m scared but I know I’m beating this god bless all of you hope to meet you guys one day
Thank you for your honesty. People are so hungry for that now. Our country has a deficit of it. You are a wonderful example of real people. We all have brokenness. Thank you for allowing God to use you guys for His good. I’m glad you guys have decided to stay put for a bit. You’re in my prayers.
Thank you Shell 🙏❤️
Love your thoughts!
I feel ya, BroMan. I quit a little over a year ago and I, like you, can't drink just one. "Quitting drinking is easy. I've done it a thousand times." 😎
Your story is both heart breaking and heart warming at the same time. You two are amazing people and I will be meeting you soon for sure.
Thank you ❤️❤️❤️
I watch a lot of RUclips and you guys are by far some of the most interesting and unique folks out there. Thanks for sharing your stories with us.
Thank you 😊
And the third piece….. then he remembers, I can’t get a smile of my face, thank you,I just love moments like that.😊
I don't have any interest in RV'ing full time but somehow I clicked on your channel a few years ago. The first video was the one where you guys were breaking down all the costs of RVing. Great job with these videos. I've been sober for just about 7 years and it was after 6 detoxes and two 30 day rehabs. God bless you two and your recovery.
My kind of Guy Kevin!!! 🤪
What's crazy is I have no interest in the RV life for myself, yet I have watched and loved you guys for quite a while now. Though I find the content interesting, I keep coming back because of the 3 of you. I also feel a bit of fellowship by watching. With that said, whether you are in an RV or not, I'll be watching. I imagine many others here feel the same way.
About 35% of the RV Odd Squad doesn’t RV. We will have rental RV’s and hope you can come visit. Thank you for your support ❤️❤️❤️
I agree Kim. I too have been an Armchair Rver
@@RVOddCouple what are you planning as far as renting RVs?
I started watching you at 3,000 subscribers. You guys when from 100 % awkward in from of the camera to dominate the camera and you tube like pros. Congratulations.
Thank you Rafa❤️
This video brought tears to my eyes. You are exactly where you two are supposed to be. Now is the time to hunker down and get through what we are about to experience. The high diesel fuel prices, food shortages, and this crappy government make it important to have some place to call home.
Thank you for your support Carolyn 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏 Grateful to have you along for the adventure
The part where you said, " Drinking over family," made me tear up because my ex-boyfriend walked out on me because he chose to drink and gamble over our relationship and as you said about losing everything you had come to love. He lost that and the blessings God put in his life and God gave him a chance to be a better man. He once said I would be his greatest loss. It has been a year and a half and my heart aches every day. But like you Mercedes, I didn't want to watch him destroy himself. My guess is, where ever he is now, he is probably drinking himself to death knowing what he lost and gave up. because he couldn't give up the drinking and gambling addiction. He wanted what he never had before, he said, and he had that in me, he said also and threw it away for the Alcohol Demon. I told him we needed to stay in prayer, and keep our armor strong to fight the demons, he agreed, but he was not a strong enough man to follow through with daily prayer and I couldn't do it alone. It didn't have to be this way. Thank you for your story and the happy ending.
Sorry🙏
Be strong and know your worth👍 he surely needed to have you in his life to know what he was loosing…..
And you maybe needed to learn where your personal boundaries of what’s a deal breaker- it makes you stronger and wiser
The love of my life was sober but had traded alcohol and drugs for a sex addiction, as I started to uncover his secrets it became a battle, he set out to destroy me to cover his secret lifestyle. I didn’t know what a narcissist was but after things started coming to light, I could see how I was being manipulated and how he had set the stage to destroy me when his lies were uncovered. I had no idea how evil a person can be, it has been 11 years and I’m still devastated and damaged, sad thing is I truly love him, I shouldn’t but I do.
@@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123 I'm sorry.. I am sure your pain was as intense as mine. It hurts like hell! But you know what?.I think about the pain those parents are going through losing their children in TX and I realize my pain is nothing compared to theirs right now
Your testimonies so touched my heart! Our church has a meeting called “Celebrate Recovery”. Alcohol had been an on and off problem for me. I’m 71 and thanking God it’s lost its appeal. My hubby and I have an RV that has become a nightmare. $30,000 in repairs the past 9 years. We moved from CA to SW Missouri 9 years ago. The weather and humidity wrecks havoc on our RV. 2005 Itasca Sunova Class A 34’ RV with 3 slides. The floor plan is awesome. We’ve had her 19 years. At 71 years old, and the weather here, it’s getting to be not worth having it. Money pit. It’s on its 3rd roof. Winnebago originally had a poor design for the roof. Held on by “clips”! The winds in the mid west tore the roof off to the point where the bathroom ceiling fan was hanging over the side of the RV! Thank you for sharing! Jesus is Lord!
As a mother, we constantly worry that we are breaking our children, that we are not the best mother. Our feelings are easily hurt by anything or any comment that we construe as a questioning of our parenting. Because, it brings to surface our deep rooted insecurities about our own feelings. Having observed you in person. I’m here to publicly say, Sage is very lucky girl, with excellent parents and a wonderful mommy.
Thank you Genevieve ❤️❤️❤️
@Hello
We RVed for 1.5 years. The lifestyle had so many positives. We met so many amazing people along the way. Zero regrets. Ended up putting roots back down where we started. BTW - we did a video on 9 things we dislike about RVing to share exactly what you are in this video. Love how real you two are!
I've said it before and I'll say it again! You both are such an inspiration! This video is the exact reason why you have such a Huge following! Your honesty, integrity and pure transparency oozes from every fiber of your being! And it's refreshing to see and hear! You have earned a "life long" follower in "me" and I'm sure many others agree! I hope one day to get to Thunder Canyon and meet in person! Until that day, keep up the amazing work! God Bless 😊
Looking forward to meeting you ❤️🙏
I'd be interested to know which videos/channels inspired you the most early on. Congratulations guys!!! I'm glad you found your way.
Your story is uplifting. Marriage is work and relationships go through good times and bad. Unfortunately many people married when they shouldn't have and the foundation of love isn't there to get them through the bad times, hence the evergrowing divorce rate. I've been married almost 31 years, but it's been work, is still work. Your story will help people, especially those with addictions or who are in recovery. Thanks for sharing and God Bless on whatever you do in the future. I lost a sister to alcoholism, and the family found out way too late because of all the lies and fake illnesses she made up to hide the alcoholism. Reach out to loved ones if you find yourself drinking round the clock because it leads to death. She was way too young to die. Truth.
God Bless you as well 🙏❤️
My husband and I are making the transition. We are downsizing from a 3300 square foot home to a class a motor home. I am a public school teacher and he is a towboat captain. We can’t up and leave to full time RV, but we are looking forward to making that a future goal. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching your journey. We watch a ton of RUclips videos of full time RV families to get our head wrapped around what we are about to set our new sights on. Bless you for being the awesome parents that you are to Sage. I was drawn to you because of your viewpoints and experience in the RV world. I NEVER comment on people’s RUclips channels. I subscribe if I believe you have something to offer to this world. Y’all have experience and you seem to be genuine and real. With that said, and with my faith in God as you have, I think it is important to say that public education is not ALL that bad. There are districts that are better than others and it is important that you find a district that is compatible with what your child’s needs may be. Yes, I am full aware of some of the things that public school systems lack. But please know…there are amazing teachers out there, working every single day in the public school system, spending way more time with their students than they get to spend with their own children. As a public school teacher, I give so much of my family and personal time working on lessons and contemplating what I can do to help a child. Work doesn’t stop at work. I bring my job home with me every single day. I pray for you and Sage. I pray for her and you to be in the greatest environment that is conducive to helping you and her be the best that you can be, the happiest. I would love to meet you someday. Your genuineness is refreshing and contagious. I just wouldn’t be a good school teacher if I didn’t share what life is like in our community as you share what life is like in your community as well. God bless you and your family. I am so happy that this endeavor you have been placed in is bringing joy and happiness to you, and that you are sharing that joy with others to help build this community of faith, family, and friends working towards a common mission.
Your level of faith and praying together inspires me. You allowed the Lord to lead you and strengthen you in your journey not only with each other but in your travel.
Amen 🙏❤️
Watching you two makes me smile at how good you two are for each other.
John is such a volatile person, diving into his passion no holding back. Mercedes is his anchor because she’s a check & balance type. I hope you two continue to fall in love with each other and with life again and again. Your story is one for the books :)
Aw nicely said
Thank you so much for this Jen❤️❤️❤️ I’m the luckiest man on earth to have Mercedes.
True. John is volatile and obsessive. But that type of person tends to be extremely productive and they get the work done with no excuses.
I'd prefer _passionate_ to volatile. That aside, you're absolutely correct. Theirs is a truly inspiring story.
There's a *Wow!* and a *How?* in every relationship. John is definitely the *Wow!* And Mercedes is the best kind of *How?* Grounding. Supportive. Not critical or disrespectful (The relational fatal mistake too many make. See _Love & Respect_ for evidence of respect as man's greatest need.)
@@RVOddCouple Yes, you are!
I'm impressed with you both! The world needs to hear true struggles with honesty and in love. I admire your courage, openness & willingness to admit mistakes.
Thank you Andrea🙏❤️
I have to admit I was worried about John after last weeks video... Ramped up the prayers!! I pray for you three... each and every day. Also praying that I will be able to visit one day!! You are doing a great job... give yourselves a lot of credit... if only just for listening to God in addition to doing all things right.
Hopefully last week was the bottom of exhaustion🤪
I totally get it. It cost us OVER $600 in fuel alone to go fom OKC to Austin for a weekend trip. More that 2X's the cost from two years ago. Yes, we are indeed facing troubled times. I'm not sure when we can afford another trip like that. If we go anywhere, it will be within a 200 mile radius based on fuel cost. God bless. Can't wait to hear from y'all again
Ouch! God Bless you as well Ron 🙏
Love you guys! We were set to go full time but saw the shortages(tires, plastics, metal, chips, diesel, def, etc) plus long wait times for repairs and insane price increases on fuel, etc JUST IN TIME. We bought a little country home on a little bit of land. Eventually I'd love a class B for trips. We're really enjoying our new life.
Loved the video and you guys honestly. Life is a journey, full of bumps, full of highs, full of lows, full of opportunities for us all to make it a life worth living. God bless you all.
God Bless you as well Pat❤️❤️❤️ We miss you and Katrina horrible
❤️
I agree with you. But sometimes these guys give me TMI just like my next door neighbors sometime do.
Hello J & M. Im not often moved. I’m very moved by your video. You are both so honest and courageous. Your inspirational. At some point I hope to have the privilege of meeting your family,
We’d love to give you a hug Gary 🙏❤️
We're in our 70's, retired, and likely won't try the RV lifestyle, but your message is strong and powerful. Consider me subscribed!
Smart! We are 71 and enjoyed our class A rv for 10 years when we lived in CA. CA you can pretty much use your rv year round. 9 years ago we moved to southwest Missouri and that was pretty much the near end of rv’ing. $30,000 In repairs. Plus you can only use them MAYBE 6 months out of the year. A lot of upkeep and about $1,000 a year for insurance.
Oddly enough - My wife and I started watching you after we started RV. But we went the opposite way. We sold an epic home to buy the smallest RV you can think of (Total Cost $3200). It was a challenge because we did not have to go backwards. The challenge was to live in it for one year and then buy bigger (or a home). Three years later - we bought a bigger RV, a home in another State, land in a different state, and are currently parked at our daughter's (Her and her husband are building an RV Park). I LOVE IT. We have been watching you (until you guys gave up the RV) for information about what to do. It has been fun.
Great story Thomas! You seem a lot like us❤️
@Hello handsome how are you doing?
We are glad that you have found what God wants you to do at this point in your life. Change is good. You are still the RV ODD Couple. There are so many people out there that love living in a RV at a campground because of the community. There are so many different ways to RV. Your channel is going to transition right along with you. Keep up the great work and take care of those 🐔🐔 Have a wonderful week. Mary💕Fred
Thank you Mary & Fred ❤️❤️❤️
I just want to say I think you guys are doing the smart and right thing for times we are in right now. Sending you all the love and support!
Thank you Darrell
Thank you…for being so brave and honest.
You are an inspiration to all of us who have had really hard times and pulled out of it.
You guys are doing the right thing! This year we have had to cut back on many of our travel plans because of the current situation in our country (trying to find a safe way to word this). I have an idea for Thunder Canyon, are you guys planting a veggie garden of any kind? You could make it like a community camping garden. Whoever camps there can help take care of it and also eat from it. Many communities are actually considering doing that this year because of what is going on. You could do the same thing. Pick things easy to grow there and that don't require tons of extra work. And grow lots of that. Any food will probably come in handy as things progress this summer. Stay safe! We are praying for you guys!!!!!
This is a great idea Cheri and yes we are doing it ❤️ Thank you for the Prayers and God Bless you as well 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
This video just came across in my algorithm. I'd like to say, Thank you for your honesty and courage to be this honest and for sharing your life and your story. I would like to wish your family all of the best that life has to offer.
After 4 years of saving, building up my credit and endless research I finally pulled the trigger and bought a 2020 class C a few days ago. I plan to set out full timing on my own. I have 1 month to sell almost all my stuff and bounce out of my house for 20+ years in North GA. The excitement for doing this left as soon as I bought the RV. I suddenly became nervous, apprehensive and worried I did the right thing. Now one of my favorite RV channels (you guys) says I picked the worst time to do this. Thanks John! lol
Seriously though I've learned a lot from you guys over the years, and yes, I do feel like I know you both. I wish you all the best in this new adventure.
Congratulations Ronny 😀 Hope you have Thunder Canyon on your itinerary
You two… the honesty and transparency make this so refreshing to watch and identify with on many many levels. Thanks for that truly…we will drop in to TC one day and give some big hugs. Much love and blessings.
John & Mercedes...Thank you so much for sharing your heart and soul with us! What you shared about beginning to pray together daily/often God has used to really convict me that I have dropped the ball on that as godly husbands should be leading spiritually. Thank you!!!
Debbie and I are 13 years apart, and we and our total of 5 children survived blending a family 18 years ago. They have been launched into adulthood, , and the sale of our house here in Colorado is closing next week, and we begin our FT RV journey, and hope God allows us to come to Thunder Canyon and get to know you three (and your chickens!) someday! BIG blessings to you, and we will pray that you continue to follow where He leads you. He has promised to lead us "...with His eye upon us"
God Bless y’all and we hope to meet you❤️🙏
I stumbled upon your videos this week...I am disappointed I wasn't with you during your journey, but I will certainly admire your past adventures.
You guys are awesome.
Jon still has that addictive personality. He became addicted to the idea of full time RVing. Then he became addicted to building this channel. Then he became addicted to the idea of a safe place from the ills of the world. Then he became addicted to the idea of a campground redoubt. Whatever Jon locks his radar on, he becomes obsessed with. The reality of owning and operating a large investment has caught up to him. No one will manage Thunder Canyon like you guys and that reality has set in. You've found your purpose and your place...and you are addicted to it...for now...😉
Passion meets Purpose
With these forms of addiction which are positive. I prefer to call that manifesting your intentions.
@@genevieveharris4692 Yeah, I am just teasing them. Actually, I'm a lot like Jon. I share his way of locking onto things. His politics are identical to mine, and I like his taste in women. Hi, Mercedes!😉
High performing people have some addiction issues. The challenge is directing that energy to something positive while using caution to not overdo and falling on substances to use to excess as some sort of stress relief. Work a program and use it to recognize that we dont have the ability to correct ALL THINGS. There is a higher power than each of us in this and respect for that arrangement is humbling and necessary to good health.
For me, “Dedicated” is the word that best describes how I see John. “Addict” has a negative connotation to it, imo, whereas these areas he’s channeled his energy to are all positive and took a tremendous amount of DEDICATION to accomplish.
You 2 are a breath of fresh air. So open, intelligent, honest and kind. It's a pleasure to watch your videos.
Kudos for rejecting the government indoctrination school system. I've noticed a trend where many fulltime RVers get out of the lifestyle within 3-5 years. They often buy property and go back to being part-timers or weekend warriors. After 4 years on the road I'm doing something similar. I bought property in SD and spend the warmer months there and the colder months on my leased RV site in Arizona. But I hope to make it out to Thunder Canyon one of these days.
You found what’s right for you Andy 😀 That’s awesome! Hope you can visit us
I am so inspired by you two. You have saved each other. My husband died, in part, because he could not recover from alcoholism. It has been 16 years next month since Ken died.
Thank you so much. My adventure awaits.
Much love your way Regina 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
When my other tasks are done, I will follow your adventure path. Thank you so much.
Thanks for sharing your perspective. Good luck with your adventure. We are continuing our full time RV adventure, one day at a time.. We love it. Fear is a prison.
🙏
I absolutely love you guys....you are both so real, so honest and so raw which is sooo rare today!!! I am not an rv'r but watch and learn from you guys often!!!
We sold our RV and have come off the road. Even though we weren't full time I am very glad ,given these times we did. Still stay on youtube ,and let us know the progress of Thunder Canyon. If you build cabins I would like to bring my wife and I to visit.
We’d love to have y’all Wayne 🙏❤️
At the house closing, John had a come to Jesus moment. And he did. Nothing better in this entire world. Always inspired by you and always wish you the very best. Great video, as usual!
Amen 🙏
First! 😎🤓 I really admire you both. Very happy happy for you guys! What a blessing! 🥰
Outstanding and inspirational couple. Love you guys. My plan was to be a part of the thunder canyon family this year, but life deals different cards some times. Back on track soon and will make it happen later this year. Bless your family and all who are close to you.
Bless you as well ❤️🙏
Me too, gotta trust that I’ll get there eventually also
@@cathysupp9493 Hello
@@RVOddCouple Hello
You have a piece of ground that is a dream for most people. The two of you went thru tough times that made both of you better. Your child is a gift from the Lord. You are self-employed doing something you all like. I wish your family the best the Lord can provide. Love your channel.
Ray
Thank you Ray 🙏❤️
My mom died when she was 42 from alcoholism. I was 16, and my brother was 12. It was not a stable lifestyle before or after her death. My brother's dad (also an alcoholic) gave him up to the state. My brother had many negative experiences with foster parents and social services. My dad was a severe addict who had me move down to Mexico with him - but, later, he was kicked out of Mexico and left me behind. I managed to find my way back up to the states at 17. I was blessed with excellent foster parents for the few months before I was 18.
My brother and I are now in our mid-60s. My brother struggled with alcoholism most of his life, but he's doing okay now. I drank once in a while when I was much younger, but my need to be aware of my surroundings has always been stronger than my need for a buzz.
God blessed me with a college education, decent jobs, and Bruce, my husband of 36 years, and his family. Life hasn't been perfect, but that's "life." It's a heck of a lot better than when I was a teen and young adult.
However, I am addicted to dark chocolate. :)
Thank you Rebecca 🙏❤️ I love Chocolate too
Adding y’all to our Prayers tonight
as someone who has a physical disability the rv life is not something I can do.
I have watched you for almost 2 years as you have progressed in this journey.
May God bless you in the coming years, may your daughter grow and overcome the challenges before her. My own daughter has been diagnosed with Aspergers, a form of autism. She has many troubles, but with guidance and counseling she is succeeding in life.
A trip to Thunder Canyon is high on the bucket list for me.
And as someone who has an addictive personality be mindful that this new challenge doesn't become an addiction. Take time away and keep yourself healthy first, then the business will find the proper place in life.
God Bless you as well Keith🙏❤️ We’d love to meet y’all
@HELLO HANDSOME HOW ARE YOU DOING?
Your honesty and integrity are an inspiration to me. Your story will hopefully inspire others who struggle with life’s challenges!
@Hello handsome how are you doing?
I must say you guys probably have done more for the average RVer than any other channel that i have checked out. Your channel is the only one I am subscribed to. You've done the insurance thing, you do the RV classes and now planning to do the training center. Keep on doing what you do and you and Mercedes will go down in history as the one of the best things that happened to RVing since the 5th wheel.
Thank you Bruce ❤️❤️❤️
You guys warm my heart! I can feel God's love through you both. It really is inspiring watching you grow in faith (which is what our family is trying to do, too!)
Thank you Heather 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
I have watched your adventures for over 2 years, and I was not aware of your addiction until watching this. I am impressed with how well you have so far worked together to follow your dreams as well as how open you are. I was lucky that I didn’t catch the addiction my father had, but having witnessed what it did to him, I am so impressed with you two. God bless you and may you continue to succeed in your life going forward.
God bless you as well 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
John, the fact that you recognize that you had hit bottom twice is what we call a miracle, plus that you didn't end up in one of the three places all of us can. As a recovering alcoholic with 35 years now I feel so grateful for the time. I still work a program to this day. I don't take my sobriety for granted at all. I know the I am the only one that can end it.
I now have four children all grown and six grandbabies. Plus my rock that I have been married to for 37 years. This next year I retire and we are going to start full time rving and traveling.
We have a small business that we are taking with us. We do custom vinyl cutting, hats, jackets, tshirts and business promotional products.
Our plan is to take a 43' toyhauler and put the business in the back. We have already purchased our HDT and Smart car so the next thing is a Grand Design Momentum 398mr.
As I tell Cindy when we run out of money it's time to do some custom work 😂.
Safe travels and roads Brian and Cindy "xtreambydesign with passion"
God is so good Brian. We Pray every day for guidance, direction, and the right people at the right time. We would love to talk with you and your better half. Please email us
I remember your you tube channel telling us why and where you lived and sold your home. Great story. I've never drank alcohol or done any illegal drugs and idid smoke tobacco up until 2002. Then I quit for good. My wife is the same way. We are soul mates. ❤️ you guys did great. Keep it going..my wife and I may actually rv one day soon. We put it off for now. Good luck
1
53 seconds in…..
I’m gonna say “I knew it” 👍
And here’s why…….
In an earlier video y’all told about how the RV experience kinda forced you to work together through any frustration or anger toward each other for a common and necessary goal, even though it was usually as banal as backing in, hooking up or driving away
I had a rush of insight at the time and just felt that you would “master” the physical & emotional lessons of RVing apply them to life, and move toward more challenges
Obvs getting Thunder Canyon to this phase was in itself a huge directional change
You both continuing to move forward together, stronger & into new challenges-
My guess is that searching for more lands-looking at possible partners, administration and mostly a growing child will form where you go & what you do
The Lord (and the Odd Squad) will be with you
22:57 🥹🥲☺️*Lords Prayer
32:01 sit tight in place 👍 & the place you happen to be?
Ider Al. seems to be a community that would reach out to help one another embracing similar values.
35:20 a SuperC? I want to show you the merits of VAN travel
Tiny? Yes but the gas mileage can’t be beat
And also with you 🙏❤️
I enjoy watching the two of you, and I'm sure your future videos will be just as enjoyable. I appreciate your transparency and willingness to share in life's struggles. We all have them! Keep on keeping on, and I'll stay tuned!
Thank you ❤️🇺🇸
Thank you so much for opening up and letting me get to know you both!
I'm impressed with what I have seen so far regarding Thunder Canyon Campground!
Thank you for bearing your souls. It is an inspiration! Also, thank you for all your the efforts you both have put forth and the legacy you are leaving
Thank you Ken❤️❤️❤️
I found you 2 when I bought my Outdoors RV TT the same week I retired in 2018. As I grew to know you, I loved you more and more. Your story and what happiness and togetherness you bring us like minded people is amazing. Thank you for being you!! You won’t visit me 8 months out of the year here in rural Montana lol (gtfo’d Hellifornia). But, almost an entire state with like minded people! If u visit, I don’t know how to raise chickens or farm/garden, but one helluva security guard 😂 (legally can carry across state lines lol).
so glad John lets Mercedes speak her knowledge and not interrupt her.
They do speak over each other occasionally but they manage to sort it.
I think she agrees with much of what he says & so she let's him.
Mercedes knows if I don’t get it out, I’ll forget it 🤣😂🤣
Thank you for sharing your brokenness. You shine a beautiful light on our Loving Heavenly Father! He loves His broken children. And, yes, we are all broken.
Your videos have been a blessing to us as we started our part-time RV life. Praying for your continued success.
Thank you Jerrilynn🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
I love your courage to be so open about your difficult days. I also love that you landed at Sand Mountain, Alabama, in my opinion the most special place on earth. It is where my dad was born and raised, where my grandparents lived and where I always found peace, stability, unconditional love and had some of the most special days in my life. I had been watching y'all for a few years and wondered if you would ever come to Alabama. WOW, did you ever! I'm so happy and excited for you and gotta admit, I really love your little family, especially beautiful Sage!
How cool is this Sharon 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏 Looking forward to seeing what we’ve done in this beautiful place.
Your story of how you met, became successful and almost divorced is why I started to follow you both. Plus we had already lived in an RV for 5 years. Not traveling in it like we had planned. We are planning on traveling in one when Danny retires. I just joined at the bottom level. it's all I can do right now without starting an argument with hubby. I am supporting a 'Way Of Life' that will benefit both of us. He spends money we don't have, on things I don't approve on.
Danny stopped doing almost anything that we use to do. We had such adventures. I miss those.
Welcome Sarah❤️❤️❤️ Thank you for the support! Really looking forward to meeting you both. I’ll talk Danny into a higher level 🤣😂🤣
@@RVOddCouple It will happen. Soon. He has 2 credit cards to pay off.
I say he, but we are a couple so they have become my responsibility as well. I am praying that with my early Social Security benefits that I am now getting, that will come a bit sooner.
Danny and I want to grow our RUclips Channels. The first thing we need is being able to get online a bit faster. We live in the boonies of Florida. Lake Kissimmee State Park, outside of Florida. The Lake Wales Ridge always seemed small to me (I lived in Colorado for 26 years) yet, it make it hard to get service here.
It's either nail slow or nonexistent.
Then we will NEED help getting it going again.
THAT'S WHERE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO HELP. The money is a small amount for what we can learn.
Sorry for the ramble, I don't get out much.
Love and hugs
Dax and I love Thunder Canyon! Everyone has been very friendly and helpful. We really look forward to camping here again.
We would love to meet your chickens!
We love having you Nana❤️ Come on by and meet them.
Y'all are awesome! I happened upon your videos and started watching your journey within your first few months - living my dream through you! I watched the RV Odd Squad first meeting at the pool and was really wishing I could have been there. Having zero experience in this industry but containing an excited heart full of hope, I very much hope to join you all at Thunder Canyon. Keep being REAL! That's what we appreciate.
@Hello handsome how are you doing?
Your journey has been incredible and you are such loving parents! Sage is such a gifted girl and the love and time you give her has had such an important impact that you will never know. Keep supporting your vision guys.... it is God's will and the chickens are appreciative! 💙
Love you and can’t wait for you to see Thunder Canyon Camp Gratitude Randi🙏❤️
I get the scary part. My small travel trailer is my only home. I’ve been so unsure of many things since my spouse suddenly died of heart attack and left me with nothing but debt. I love my little camper home but it’s been so expensive with multiple repairs even though it’s new 2021 model. Waiting 14 weeks for a part I need hasn’t been easy. I know God has a plan for me somewhere. You are such a blessing. I know tougher things coming. Have no idea how I’m going to get through it but I keep praying and trusting one day at a time.
Hang in there and keep the Faith🙏❤️
Thanks for your stories about your recovery, guys, it's great to hear your achievements. I'm an addictions nurse based in a detox unit in Liverpool, England. I've heard your story so many times over the last ten years, unfortunately, I haven't heard many successful recoveries in that time. 😔
I'm new to your channel, I love your frankness and honesty. I've got a Ford campervan and love to watch your adventures.
Wow! Thanks so much for opening up and being honest about your lives. The best to you and sweet Sage moving forward as a family.
We lead AR meetings. The participants are some of the most strong and amazing people I know. You two inspire others by sharing your struggle and journey. Thank you! 🤗🤗
Thanks for being open. I'd have to say both of you are entrepreneurs and if you don't have several irons in the fire at the same time, life would be boring for you. I don't think Thunder Canyon will be your last adventure. Entrepreneurship is a gift that allows some fortunate people the ability to accomplish the impossible. Is it a curse? Certainly at the beginning of an adventure and there can be plenty of stomach churning and sleepless nights. The "curse" can be very rewarding! Wishing both of you continued great success.
Thank you Robert
You are still full time just not inside an RV. You now are full time camp ground services. It's the next step naturally . Everything you learned in an RV full timing is an educational experience that directly relates to running Thunder Canyon and future campgrounds . You have to crawl before you walk , walk before you run . Now you are running ! God is controlling the track you are on. Bless you both ! Stay on track and watch the future be blessed with all that God can give . Your recovery is a daily job . Jon and Mercedes are not quitters or lazy .
Your hard work both personal and professional has been a beautiful journey . It has been so uplifting and wonderful to watch . Thank You !
Thank you for all your support over the years Annie 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
my husband and I have been married 36 years, he is an alcoholic he has been dry 36 years. I never did drink, I told him I could never marry him because he drank, timing was right he stopped and 6 months later we were married. We were full time for over 5 years we just bought a house in Tn but the times have changed so we stopped. We never would have sold everything one day and went full time. Life is Wonderful!
Hope we meet
I had not heard your story until today. I appreciate your honesty. Wish you both continued success with your journey and mission. Picking up my new (second) RV next week and though anxious about where things are heading, I will step out in faith that it is the right thing to do. God Bless.
Sobriety is a lifelong journey. You're on the right course. God, health, and family are what matters the most.
You too 🙏❤️
Thank God you are not quitting the channel. I love watching your videos, they bring me hope, hope that we will be able to travel with our grandson/son who is in the spectrum, (we adopted him he brings so much joy and love and challenges).
God bless you Jeanette. We currently have another grandmother who has her grandson on the spectrum her at Thunder Canyon Camp Gratitude. we’ve had so much fun with them.
Hope you can make it here one day
There's so much here to comment on... bottom line, you're doing really great things, family is nearest to the heart, you work so darn hard to make Thunder Canyon spectacular, you treat the people around you well, your politics are in line with mine :) and your RV journey continues. The difference is a good thing and I hope you experience the joy and fullness of your labor. my best to you!
Hey Newbie ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Love ya Tim 🤣😂🤣
@@RVOddCouple, "newbie"... bwahahahahaa! You'll never give me a break.
@@timinsandiego6979 🤣😂🤣
I have been sober for almost 12 years .
I'm proud of both of your honest and open conversation about this topic.
I was a john style drinker.
1 drink and I couldn't stop .
I had to make a change after a real bad incident where I acted out in front of my oldest kid.
You guys are my favorite RV`ers. You are brutally honest and tell things like they are. I have one question. Please don`t answer if you don`t want to. I never heard what business you guys had going. Peace to all! Cluck cluck.
General Contractor 😀
I am so glad that Sage is better. I was worried and scared and didn’t know what I would do or what services were available for her. It is such good news.
Wishing you much success in all of your efforts.
You should start a series on you tube about thunder canyon campground, where you film your daily life as hosts and film interesting people who are traveling etc etc. I’d watch it. 30 min show season1. Best of luck on your new adventures. You guys have a lot of great inspirational advice, keep sharing. Thanks
Interesting idea 😀👍
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Moving forward , I'm 72 years old and I just purchased my first RV 2 weeks ago and will be picking it up any day now between
6-2-22 --- 6-8-22 I have also watched hours and hours of RV videos per week for the past five years and fell in love with it all and you guys in the past 2 months ,
I purchased a pretty clean 1995 -
32' Damon escaper 5th wheel with rear kitchen middle living room with one large slide that covers couch and dining area, I show my sister the RV section in the store name and off every single thing and she said boy you must have really studied it a lot and she's right I told her all from videos. ❤️😂
Loved this video!!! You're honesty about your selves and about Rving. I would love to visit thunder canyon someday for a few days. Take care
Hope you can come one day Karen❤️
It was a tough winter for me and I spent a lot of it bingeing your content. Thank you for sharing your voices; your strengths and your struggles. Let your Patriotism and love of God continue to shine. You are a blessing to more than you even realize. Love you guys.
We love you Amy and hope to meet you one day🙏❤️
Keep coming back, it works if you work it! what a story
❤️❤️❤️
And you're worth it.
What an awesome video!! I just celebrated 12 years. Next year my wife and I are downsizing, buying an RV and hitting the road full time. We will definitely stay at Thunder Canyon! I am blessed enough to be able to retire in my mid 50's. What better way to retire? God bless you guys.
You two deserve to be happy. As more of your past is revealed, the honest and humble revelations give us a glimpse into that which connects all of us: you are human. Your struggles are our struggles. Recovering addicts sometimes work incredibly hard in order to keep the monster at bay. This might help explain why John is in constant motion.
8:50 "We started to heal as a couple" by watching RV YT videos. So just the concept of RVing helped save/preserve your marriage. Providence.
First time RV buyers can watch your videos and get educated on your blueprint for success in all phases. You did your job well. You did it together and should be proud.
I would suggest small trips. Take a week , go somewhere, take a chicken, hilarity ensues, get videos=)
Thank you for the Thoughtful comment😀 But for the Grace of God… 🙏🙏🙏
?😂 “Take a chicken.” 😂 funniest comment of all!
After 5 years of family vacations in a travel trailer as a single Dad, I retired 3 years ago & began living in a new TT on a beautiful lake in the awe inspiring CA mountains fulltime. Life & opportunities are ever changing as we grow and our plans and goals often need to be adjusted accordingly as yours did for your marriage, your health, your child's needs and now the purchase of an old RV park that requires your time, effort and presence. Your courage, energy and desire to give back is commendable and why Hashem brought all of us into His world. Wishing you all much joy, continued healing and success. I've learned in my life of many challenging trials and successes, that not much that is really worth it, ever comes easy, and your journey is more evidence of this saying. Boruch Hashem, there is no copyright on that saying, and Mercedes, please feel free to add that one to your tool box of life's truthful & wise sayings. One last one that I think applies here that I have posted on my fridge, “When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.”
― Helen Keller.
Thank you for your transparency & vulnerability in your videos that remind the rest of us that our RVing mistakes are quite common and offer great lessons to grow from as individuals, while serving Hashem & His Children. All the best, Hillel
Thank you so much for taking the time sharing your thoughts🙏 We are so grateful for those who have joined us along the way….God is good❤️ thank you Ben
Mercedes, John, Sage, and yes, chickens too - you are all so refreshingly honest, you are very much appreciated, thank you for such a great video! Agree with what you are doing and your reasons for doing it, you make me feel that there is hope for the world yet! Can't wait to join you at Thunder Canyon. Right now with the price of diesel and the fact that our motorhome is showing symptoms of a DEF head failure with little prospects for a fix anytime soon, it may be a while, but we definitely want to meet you, God Bless you all!
Hang in there Wes! We look forward to meeting you as well ❤️
I had no idea! Eleven years myself! Thanks for sharing this and thanks for bringing back a piece of my childhood at thunder Canyon