Home Again, Home Again

Reflections on an Unforgettable Summer Road Trip

After months on the road in our camper, we’re finally back home in Florida. Actually, we’ve been back for a little while now, but the days have been a blur—settling back in, preparing for two hurricanes, and cleaning up the aftermath. It’s been nonstop, but we’re thankful to be safe. Though others faced far worse, we came away with only minor damage. Our hearts go out to those still recovering.

Not long after we returned, I dove into drafting this blog, eager to reflect on our summer travels and close the chapter on our journey. I wanted to let everyone know we made it home safe and sound. Though it took longer than expected, with the opening paragraphs floating unfinished in the cloud for weeks, I’m happy to say the story is finally complete. So here it is—the summery of our grand adventure:

As the Smoky Mountains faded in our rearview mirror, a quiet calm settled over us. After months of adventure on the open road, Grammi and I were finally heading home. The journey felt like an exhale, a release after weeks of chasing sunsets, exploring hidden corners, and soaking in new experiences. 

We meandered along a scenic, quieter route to avoid the hectic Atlanta traffic, winding through peaceful back roads before eventually merging onto I-75 near Macon. We weren’t in a hurry—whether it took a day or three to get back didn’t really matter. As we drove, we couldn’t help but reminisce about the incredible journey we’d had. It was a trip to remember, filled with breathtaking landscapes and new experiences. Each adventure added something special, leaving us with heartwarming memories that will last a lifetime.

As the hours passed, the weariness of the road set in, and we decided to stop for the night at Reed Bingham State Park in southern Georgia. We’ve stayed there before—located about half way between the Smoky Mountains and our home in Florida—its peaceful surroundings and convenient location make it the perfect spot for a restful night’s sleep. 

The next morning, as we set off on the final stretch of our journey, the feeling was bittersweet. While we were excited to return home and see our family, part of us knew we would miss the freedom of the open road, the spontaneity of each day, and the closeness to nature that had defined our travels. With every mile, we found ourselves reflecting on the countless moments we now carry with us.

Our journey began back in mid-April with a Spring Tour, a shakedown trip to three Florida state parks where crystal-clear springs bubbled up from the aquifer, creating pristine pools and meandering rivers. Afterward, we returned home to finalize preparations for our four-month adventure. Rather than sleep in the house, we continued to sleep in the camper. Grammi had already stripped the beds, and she wasn’t about to make them up for just three nights. It wasn’t a big deal—we have full hookups at home, with 30-amp electric service, water, and a sewer connection.

Once everything was packed and ready, we hit the road, caravanning with our daughter and her husband for the next two weeks. Together, we explored three Georgia state parks and then headed up to Kentucky to experience the Bourbon Trail—a great start to the journey. After parting ways with our daughter’s family, we continued north, with countless adventures still ahead.

In total, we traveled 8,979 miles across eleven states, adding three new ones to our map of “states visited.” Along the way, we checked off four more national parks in our quest to visit them all, plus two national lakeshores and a national monument. We wandered through dozens of charming small towns and villages, discovering some of the most beautiful and unforgettable places we’ve ever seen. Over the course of our journey, we camped for 133 nights across 34 different locations, as captured in the table below.

Even with a few misadventures—scary hail storms, flat tires and even a broken camper frame (remember that?)—we had an incredible time. This summer was truly one for the books, a heck of an adventure. For us, the journey is about finding that balance between home life with our family and the kids, and our desire to explore. We love hitting the road, discovering new places, and embracing the freedom of an adventurous life. Our hope is to keep living this way, with many more journeys yet to come.

Since returning home, friends and family keep asking us the same question: “What was your favorite part of the trip?” Honestly, it’s tough to pick just one. We had so many unforgettable days. Spending time with friends and family is always at the top of our list, but the incredible places we visited come close. From exploring the Bourbon Trail with our kids to cruising past Pictured Rocks, hiking the trails of Isle Royale, and riding UTV trails in Wisconsin, each experience had its own magic. But if I had to choose, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula would be the standout. Its rugged coastline, warm, welcoming people, and a sense of timeless beauty make it unforgettable. It’s a place I’d happily return to time and again.

As for next year, we’re still figuring that out. Maybe Alaska, maybe the Northeast—two areas still on our “must-see” list. Whatever we decide, I’ll be sure to share every adventure with you.

Until next time—happy days and safe travels.