Reality Check

February Musings

2025-02-20T18:38:00.004-05:00

This little life of mine here in middle Tennessee is moving all over the place. Okay, so the word moving is etched in my brain this year. ETCHED! It's been a year of moving. Moving us here, moving Jen and Serg into their new place, moving into my sister's house for a bit, moving Boo and Grady to their new place, moving back into this house, moving my dad in his new place, moving our stuff to and from storage, moving our stuff from the camper to the house and now back to the camper, just moving, so. much. moving! And it's not done yet.

T and I are in the midst of a pretty big build/remodel. After looking at more than enough homes in town, we finalized that we ARE indeed staying put in our home, which led to how to make this sweet place suitable for us, which led to more conversations than I can count with the words "build and remodel" smattered in, which led to us meeting our son's friend who became our fabulous contractor, which led to all new flat work around the house and a new garage/shop, which led to remodeling the house here in the next 8 weeks, which led to this here post.

Why you ask? Cause as I sit in the sunroom that is either very cold or very hot but won't be, mind you, once this amazing room is torn down and redone, I'm looking outside at the snow on the ground pondering how much we have left to do before we say, "We are settled". Oh those words... soon, just not super de duper soon.

This is the garage and patio cover build. Both are coming along nicely. We can't wait to hang out outside this year with the family. Lots of bbqs to come!

Miss Valerie! We facetime Bec, Brock and Miss Valerie often. Sweet girl! This is her cute dino from Gma and Gpa this Valentine's Day. We miss them greatly and can't wait to meet little man soon!

This is me on the regular sending photos to T. "What about this?" Home Depot and Amazon love us right now. 😁

This picture↑ and this picture↓ are some of our favorite moments since we moved to Tennessee! And our Why. 💜

And this here... the JOY that fills our heart to see our son help build a place we call home with his own two hands. See, this one here, he's been good with his hands since he was a toddler, building something or fixing something and always smiling in the middle of it all. For a few years, Gabe and Sarahh asked, when are you moving here? Are you moving here? When are you coming to Tennessee? And now that's it's a reality, and were finally here, to see our son as an integral part of what most likely will be our very last home- ever, WOW. Talk about big emotions. I may start singing Circle of Life.

Like Grandfather, Like Father, Like Son. enough said. 💗

The Nashville Zoo and cousin time! We had a blast. If you come through the area, definitely worth seeing.

These two pickles just make me laugh. Memaw and Poppa, that's us.

Our first Tennessee Valentine's! Who would have thought 36 years after this man of mine proposed to me that we'd be taking a picture in our home in Tennessee. Not me! Yet here we are. T has said many times, The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Amen to that one.

I have pictures of T teaching our own kiddos how to cook. He's patient and quite good in the kitchen. Here he is with our grandson doing the same thing. 💓

A new wine bar opened up in our town square called Hemispheres. We just discovered it! Super cool premise. They rotate wines to different hemispheres quarterly. This quarter was the Northern Hemisphere and next is the Southern. These kinds of finds make a town your town. A place to go and be. We took Cribbage and shared a glass of wine together away from the mess back in our home. Ahhhh. a moment of reprieve.

And here is the photo that started this here post today. I'm working on little man's half-blanket, using a basket for an ottoman since ours is in storage, dreaming about what will be.

Soon.

We Are Home!

2025-01-10T13:03:00.002-05:00

Just opened my laptop to work a bit on a few things and decided to hop over here for a quick update. HA! I realized I never posted after the alpacas!

Well, guess what? We made it back to Tennessee safe and sound. It was a busy travel week after the alpaca farm. So now that we're here, what's happening? I should say, what DID happen?

SOO MUCH!

We lived in a sweet RV park for a few weeks figuring out what's next. We went to the Dominican Republic with my sister and her husband to celebrate her 60th and our 35th anniversary. That was awesome for sure. We moved in with my sister for a short bit, then back on our property in our 5th wheel for another short bit and then into our home with Boo and Grady for a short bit. They found a home they love so now it's just T and I. T's sports car got totaled. The drivers here are scary. And then there was traveling to WA to pick up our new car and getting covid while there. That was fun.😏 After we drove it home, it was Christmas and then the new year! 2025 was a welcome number. Last year had lots more life, and lots more emotion than these few words care to share.

So moving forward... Hello 2025!

We are settling into our new Murfreesboro community. We have a while to go before it feels permanent but were moving that way. Having so many of our children, grands and extended family sure helps. We miss the ones not here, but God has them where they are, for now.

So what does this year 2025 have to say for itself?

Let's see, we found a church that we are exploring. Waiting a bit longer before we commit to making it our home church, but the teaching is solid, the Spirit of Lord is present in and through the pastor and the people of the church, and folk are saying hello - actually stopping to get to know us. Welcome to the south! Three biggies for me.

We have a plan for our home which is very good news. After searching tirelessly for another house, not finding anything that checked all our boxes, we truly felt settled in our hearts with our home here as our Tennessee forever home. We love the neighborhood and the yard. Especially the yard! We love the location. And by golly, we are so done moving. Now to make the actual home something we love instead of something Gramma from the 1980's loved! The bones are good! We are changing things like where the laundry room will be, which wall should come down, all the flooring throughout, etc. So far we have completed things that don't make me feel the warm fuzzies but have been all too necessary. We have a new roof, heater/ac unit, all the hardscape from the driveway to the patio, trees came down, that kind of stuff. The projects that had to happen and before the rest of the remodel. This probably gives you a clear understanding of what we've been doing since we landed in Tennessee last September. I forget how busy we've been, all this planning until I type it on paper. The big decision was building a garage so we can use the current garage as living space. That began in December. We have a great contractor. He happens to be a friend with our son so that's been fun too. Gabe is involved with the build when he can be, and it's been so wonderful to watch him in his element. Our son has always been good with his hands and now all these years later to see him use his gifting on our home, wow! We're hopeful all of this will be done by summer if not before. Stay tuned for pictures and progress!

2025 also holds more travel in our camper, hopefully mountain biking for T, and the very best of all- a new grandson! I'll be heading to Washington sometime in April to be with Bec, Brock and Valerie for a short while. Can't wait to snuggle with the newest babe!

For me, well, I am excited to say I will be starting a garden for reals this year and raising chickens. I have so much to learn. I'm scouring the internet, calling people, reading books and have a gardener resource here locally which is my green-thumb brother-in-law Dave. I do hope I can make this happen.

We are searching for all of the normal things still- favorite restaurants, places to have coffee, doctors, shopping. I am happy to say I don't have to use Maps all the time anymore. HUGE accomplishment for this directionally challenged individual. This part of moving, finding all your favorite haunts, is the part that makes a community become MY community. And this part takes time. A long time really. We became members of a winery here that gorgeous! That's a start. I secretly dream of opening a coffee house and am always on the lookout for a location. Now to find investors!

We are still on a health journey. I am not naive to think I can throw caution to the wind and stay cancer free. So, this month, January 2025, T and I are on a reset. Way too much goodness last fall and my clothes are showing it. Back to the discipline of choosing wisely what to put into our bodies each day. I have continued to purge all the crazy chemical laden products in our home. We bought a whole house water filter that will be installed with the remodel, and I threw away all my Tupperware storage containers. Let me say, it is not cheap going to glass! That's taking a minute.

And a bit closer to home, T has been a good sport with losing cycling like he had in Colorado. We are prayerful that God will show us how to include this again in his rhythm of life. And for me, walking the trails was more connected to my heart than I ever realized. The trail system was literally right out our back door. So that's been a huge heart hurt for both of us. And not seeing our friends and community group left a gap that has yet to be filled. I know and believe God fills in the gaps and holes, it just takes time.

So that's all for now. I'll keep writing and filling all y'all in all of our happenings. (How's that for my southern talk) It's not been peaches and creme moving this time around. We're older, we had built our forever home in Colorado and did I mention, we're older. Oy, that has made a big difference this time. We do see God in each step. We do see His goodness and plan unfolding. We do trust Him for his provision, even with friends. He is a good, good Father and said he will never leave us or forsake us. Amen to this. It's so true.

That's my Reality Check,

Thanks for listening, Tina aka Tuna Jones💖

On our way home...Harvest Host

2024-09-12T13:55:00.001-04:00

I'm a few weeks off from updating anyone on our trip. We're actually in Tennessee already and trying to sort our life but before I go there, let's rewind to our trip.

From Park City, Utah to Murfreesboro, Tennessee is a drive. It's even more of a drive pulling a 40 foot RV home behind you. Just now, as I am typing this, am I realizing what we just did. That's a lot of miles for T to drive over a weekend. I took one turn driving for a few hours and that was it. T did the rest!

We stayed at an alpaca farm one night, a brewery the next night and our friends house the next night.

It was quite the adventure heading back. Ok that's all you get for this post. HAHA! Enjoy the pictures.

Park City, Utah

2024-08-20T17:28:00.000-04:00

Sometimes all a girl needs is a McFlurry

Our view one way from the campsite

Our view the other way from the campsite

And here we are in another town.

We're nearing the end of this part of our journey. Both of us are feeling like it's time to go home and then regroup. I've not been resting well. My emotions are all over the place right now. Processing the loss of Mom is coming in waves. I'm feeling this tsunami of emotions crashing down hard right now that really goes all the way back to my cancer diagnosis last May til now. Lots of life... lots of emotions. I want to call people to say hey but then I'm like, actually, I don't think I have it in me to do that. So there's that.

Park City is a cool town with great recreation. Last time we were here was for a vacation during Covid. T is getting in a few rides and tonight were going to hike. We're definitely missing our outside rec time. The site we're in is funny. It's gorgeous one way and turn 180 degrees and it's a car lot. No for reals. And it's next to Highway 80 so its LOUD. Moral of the story, don't believe the online pictures when your camping! Get on google maps and look where the place is located before booking. And stay away from highways. Our site is big and quite welcoming. But sleeping is hard when you hear traffic. We're learning! That's what this part of the journey's been all about, learning. So when we go back out next time for a stint, I'll know more of what to look for and how long to stay places.

Until next time...

The In-Between

2024-08-19T17:21:00.000-04:00

Oh, where to start.

We left Washington after one more sweet day in Vancouver with our kids and baby Valerie and headed to Boise. My sister met me up there to close a final chapter.

My folks have had storage units as long as I can remember, like seriously. that long. We tried to help them over the years get rid of the stuff but to no avail. Now that Momma's gone and Dad's in Tennessee full time, we decided it was time to close that chapter and be done.

I have so many thoughts rolling around my brain. Trying to decide what to write about this finally being done. Some of its too painful to write as of yet, some if it so thankful we never have to go through this again, and some if it is saying goodbye to mom all over again. It's really hard on children to have to make decisions that should have been made by their parents.

So listen up- don't leave this earth unprepared and don't leave this earth with a hot mess for your children to navigate. It's not that hard people.

Get a trust

Get a will

TALK to your children about what you want, write it down and have it ready for the time you die or get ill.

Give away those special family treasures while you're in your right mind. Enjoy watching your kids wear that ring or open that book or use a favorite dish that they always wanted. GIVE IT TO THEM or it may find its way to Goodwill when they're having to quickly make decisions.

I am so thankful for the few treasures I have from Mom and Dad. The beautiful white country dishes they gave me a few years back, the ring that Dad gave Mom on their 10th wedding anniversary, the deer print that hung up in our home when I was tiny. And I know good and well that I can't take any of it with me to heaven, and anyone who knows me, knows my motto is Simplicity. But I am also a person who loves deeply and some of this love is shared through a memory attached to something we physically own. It brings back to mind a sweet time in our life. So why not share that with your kids now and enjoy seeing them celebrate a memory that means something to you both.

Have your financial house in order. Do not be foolish and think, "Oh they will be fine. They can do what they want when I die." It does not work that way. It's YOUR responsibility to be prepared, and then to SHARE that information with your children. Saying goodbye is already so hard, why on earth do people burden their kids with figuring out all the details to YOUR life? The last gift you give your kids is gift of preparedness. So don't be lazy and do it. And don't think, "Oh that's private, they don't need to know about our finances." Umm, yes they do. And should. The good, the bad, the ugly. And I'm not just talking to the older people here. I'm talking to young families too. Be prepared.

We do a financial overview with our kids each year. We send them a document, so they know what and where to find everything. Now that we moved, it's time for a refresher. We will update everything and share that with them. Ta da. It's that easy. My husband is super organized, and this is one area he's gifted. If that's not you, then find someone who is and ask them to help you. Just do it, stop waiting for tomorrow.

So this post is less about the hard time my sister and I had clearing out our folk's storage and more about how to do it right.

Don't be foolish, be prepared and then for God's sake, share it with your children. You will die one day, we all will. Make it a little easier on them.

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

Victoria Island- Buchart Gardens

2024-08-13T13:48:00.000-04:00

Sunday’s Beauty!

We arrived early at the port to walk onto the ferry and enjoy the cruise over to Victoria. We were invited to sit with an older couple who had extra seats across from them in their booth and heard their life stories along the way. I grabbed a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich from the cafe. It took about a hour and half to go from one port to the other. Listening to the stories of Glenda and Robert made the time pass quickly. Once there, we waked across the street to check in to the shuttle and explore the Empress Fairmont hotel. We hopped on a shuttle a bit later that took us to the gardens. Buchart Gardens is over a 100 years old. When we walked in I was quickly taken back to Disneyland. It feels like Disneyland without the rides and all the beauty. It’s gorgeous! From the minute you reach the entrance there are flowers everywhere.

The land on which this exists was a limestone quarry and when it was finished being mined, it was bare and ugly. Jennie Butchart took to task making something out of nothing. She must have been an artist herself to envision what we see today. She got the best of the best to help her and went to work. After many years, her grandson took over the task and completed the work. A process that took well over 50 years to complete. The gardens are still in the family and as beautiful as ever!

The idea of taking something ugly, bare and what looks to be useless and turn it into something beautiful, blooming and breathtaking is such a visual of what God does to us through our life with Christ. In the Potter’s hand we are made beautiful. The old has passed away and all things are new. Oh thanks be to God for his gracious way of pruning me so I can become more like him by the power of his Holy Spirit. He truly makes beauty from ashes. The process of being pruned sometimes hurts. Ok, all the time. It’s painful to let go of my way, my whatever, to be more like Jesus. I love roses and understand to get more blooms they HAVE to be pruned regularly. The trimmers are sharp and direct. They do the job well. Oy, that’s exactly how it feels to be pruned by the Lord. If I don’t pay attention to what’s happening I’ll spin out of control whining, complaining, and frustrated. It’s not that God prunes everyday, all the time, but in the seasons that He sees the yuck in my heart and my life that’s needs GO, he prunes. My part is to lean in, trust him is the work he’s doing, and allow the Holy Spirit to refine me. God’s desires for me are far greater than I can see. His unconditional love and his saving grace is salve to my soul. For me, God has never let me down. It’s not always easy peasy to allow him to shape this lump of clay, but I’m grateful for his gentle hand and strong love for me.

Reality Check-

Are you willing to allow God to prune you? Do you pay attention to that tug in your heart that says something’s not right? Ask the Lord if it’s him trying to take out some old stones and put in a beautiful garden.

Thanks for Listening,

Tuna Jones

Buchart Gardens

Fort Worden- Port Townsend

2024-08-12T15:02:00.000-04:00

Saturday morning the 10th of August- well, we woke up, had some steaming coffee and after finishing our “discussion” that started on Friday made a plan for the rest of the weekend. It’s been super cool in the mornings here. Just what we wanted when we started this adventure. We decided to head over to Port Townsend for the day. I researched quite a bit before we arrived in Port Angeles and discovered there’s just sooo much to see and so little time to do so, we only had time to hit the highlights Saturday and Sunday. As we entered Port Townsend, we pulled over to Google “best things to see in Port Townsend” and Fort Worden State Park showed up. So off we went. Oh my it was so worth it! We love history and this place is full of it. We saw Point Wilson Lighthouse that has its own story. Too long to tell you here so Google “history of Point Wilson lighthouse Fort Worden” and you can discover it yourself. Definitely history worth knowing, especially for wartime buffs. We saw old military housing, beautiful beaches, had a drink and played cribbage in the old jailhouse, hiked up to where they practiced shooting bombs in the ocean (that’s a bizarre thought), and pondered life of a soldier during the late 1800’s- 1940’s on this base. The houses for the commanding officers has servant quarters on the third floor. Which also caused us to take pause, as the entire base was white soldiers. We saw picture after picture in the museum and all the men and women were white. After our time here we went into town and asked some locals where to find some good fish and chips. Can’t have enough fresh fish! I think we’re on restaurant #4 now for local fish and chips? We did indeed find a great place and thus far the best fish and chips. Very light batter and yummy cod fish.

After a full day we headed back to camp and planned to go into the Hoh rain forest the next day, something I was highly looking forward to, but ran into our camping neighbors when we pulled in and enjoyed a long chat with them about all they’ve been seeing in the area. It’s been fun meeting people along the way who are regulars at this life in the road lifestyle. This couple is retired and enjoying a few weeks this summer traveling. They highly recommended Buchart Garden on Victoria Island. Talked us through all the logistics and so we changed plans on the fly, bought our ferry tickets for early the next morning and prepared to go to Victoria. Now to watch the Olympics and go to bed.

Port Angeles- Olympic National Park

2024-08-11T08:47:00.000-04:00

Our adventure to Port Angeles took a bit longer than we hoped. The map led us to a road that was closed. That was a huge bummer and added an extra hour to our trip. We got lost trying to find our way back to the highway and found ourselves down a dead end road looking for a place to turn around a giant 40 foot 5th wheel. Ya- that was fun. We got into town later than expected so we grabbed the most local food available- McDonalds. 😁

Working on the road and also taking in the sites hasn’t been as easy as you’d think seeing my photos. I take pictures of the beauty but the reality for most of the week is the 5th wheel and hangin back. I do our laundry, research what we’re going to do next, write, figure out our meals, life stuff. Once Terrell is done working we may head into town or if we have enough time explore.

The ONP is huge! Like huge. We quickly jet up

the mountain after work one day to take in Hurricane Ridge. It was breath taking. The next opportunity to venture out was Friday. T rode his bike on the trail and I met him at the end a few hours later to pick him up. We went to see Marymere Falls and Crescent Lake afterwards. We can say we marked off another national park!

There’s definitely more to see than we can take in but what we did see is spectacular. The weather has been marvelous too. That’s been a plus.

We had another round of fish and chips. Eh, not the best we’ve had. But we love trying them!

Both of us have been a bit grumpster with each other this week. We’re had some good opportunities to work on our communication skills. Yay us. 😜 Just caused you’re married almost 35 years doesn’t mean you don’t argue or get frustrated . It means you jump back into the ring with each other. I don’t think we’re getting enough exercise in and sleep hasn’t been so swell either. That’s the reality of living this way. We’re still working out how to do this well. I’m writing this post actually O’Dark Ugly. Woke up to T closing the window at 4ish and well- that was it for me! Thank you Menopause.

One more day here and we’re off! We start heading east after this.

Cannon Beach, Oregon- It's Finally Cool!

2024-08-08T20:17:00.000-04:00

T and I made our way over to the coast. It was finally COOL! No AC required. We stayed at a campground just about 1/4 mile from Cannon Beach. Definitely walking distance. After setting up our camp site we went to get some clam chowder and fish and chips at the local pub-ish restaurant. We had a great conversation about Jesus with a couple that sat next to us. We've prayed for God moments along the way and this was one of them for sure. T has Fridays off in August, so we took off the next morning to tour the Tillamook cheese factory. It was an easy drive down and back before Bec, Brock and Valerie arrived. We LOVE their ice-cream, cheese and yogurt!

Once the Killinger's arrived, we walked down to the beach to get our toes in the sand. And Valerie decided she was going to get her whole body in the sand. Not just a little but ALL of her!🤣 The ocean calms my soul. I love to hear the water roar and get my feet in the water. The ocean for me is what the mountains are for Terrell. Like a big AHHHHHHHH.

As you can see, Valerie LOVED the water and the sand. She was immersed in the feel of the sand and splashing of the water. I'm telling you, delight describes her. She was delighted in the people, the water, the sand obviously, taking in all these wonderful new experiences. She got herself a good bath when we got back.

We explored the town and shops on Saturday and most definitely got in our steps. Had some more clam chowder- second bowl, second place, and coffee at the local coffee house. After making a delicious tri-tip dinner and a fun round of our new game, we hugged Bec, Brock and Valerie goodbye.

Coffee? Yes, please!

Sunday, T and I hiked a few miles at a gorgeous trail not too far from our campground then went back to our camper, grabbed our stuff to sit at the beach, and rode our bikes over. You be proud to know I road my bike without falling off all the way there and back! I was pretty pleased with myself if I do say so.

Monday was a "normal" day. Laundry, packing, working. getting ready to go kind of day. We ended the day with a campfire that was more smoke than fire! No clue what wood that was but it wasn't super awesome. On top of that, I find I'm anxious the day before we leave to go to the next stop and even the actual travel day I get uptight. Kind of like when I fly, I have anxiety then too, anticipating leaving and arriving. All the mental prep and physical prep that goes into traveling. We're learning how to pack up this giant camper, what we absolutely don't need, what we absolutely do need, and how to make clean up quicker. Some campers around us make their site look like home. All sorts of pomp and circumstance. We're not there yet. Right now it's about efficiency.

I'm really glad we wandered over to Cannon Beach. It's charming, way cooler than the rest of America, and the beaches are beautiful.

Off to our next stop... Port Angeles and the Olympic National Park.

Vancouver, WA- Family Time

2024-08-08T15:39:00.003-04:00

Next stop, Vancouver, WA to see the Killingers. We took a few days to stay with Bec and Brock and of course play, play, play with the baby. Valerie is truly delightful. We parked the RV at Brock's folks place for the few days, which was fabulous. Not so fabulous was the learning curve that the fridge needs the propane AND a trickle of the electricity to stay on. Who knew?! We went over to check on a something, grab a few things and found the trailer dead as a doornail. We quickly had to improvise. We couldn't get the slides open either, so I crawled through the tiny opening onto the counter to get to the fridge. We grabbed the cold things, threw them in a cooler we had, threw out a few things that spoiled and made the best of a hard learning. We tried to connect to the electricity in the shop but had the wrong connector. Amazon has seen a lot of business from us this summer! Once we got the right connector, we drove out to get the trailer fired back up. Let me just say, traveling and life on the road definitely has some learnings for sure.

I was able to care for Valerie for a few days while Bec worked. We played, chatted- she's quite chatty! and we thoroughly enjoyed her! Her vocabulary is blossoming and what we don't understand, I suspect we will soon.

One of my favorite chiropractors is in Vancouver so I scheduled a couple visits to see him and get a massage while we were there too. My left hip has been acting up for months. These few visits helped immensely. The weather was great too. We were able to enjoy their backyard and play a new game with Bec and Brock, go on evening walks and crash a bit. Our next stop in chasing cooler temperatures is Cannon Beach and they're joining us for a night. Whoo Hoo!

Bec and I snuck away to get our toes done. Very well needed I must say.

Working on the Road- Really?

2024-08-05T20:24:00.003-04:00

Adventuring across America is also working across America for T.

When we decided to give this life on the road a try, we had to think through everything, including working. Terrell works virtually and we've traveled in the past to Tennessee, Washington and California while he worked, so we knew theoretically this was possible. Now how to make it a reality.

We chose a 5th wheel with a garage so he had a designated workspace and then he could live daily life with me on the other side of that door. He researched desk options. I asked the RV sites on Facebook to share their desk set up and how they travel. Which by the way, there are some great people on Facebook RV sites more than willing to help! After pondering and thinking for a bit, he bought a sit/stand desk with two smaller monitors. It's been great! He brought his chair from his home office, some office supplies, various cords and a trash can. Ta Da! We bought Starlink for internet too. In MOST places it's worked great. The place we're at currently in Cannon Beach is super treed so he had to get creative with where to put the Starlink on the roof this time. It's not an amazing connection but this is the only time so far we've ran into connectivity issues. And from what we have seen with our own phones walking around town, Cannon Beach has connection issues. Luckily this resort has wifi too.

This man I am married to is such a hard worker. He doesn't complain. He gets up, gets his coffee and goes to work. He can step outside if he wants to take calls, he can stand up to work, he can sit down and turn around to look out the other windows, and he can even wave at me through the glass door. 😎 I am thankful for his FANTABULUS job and the opportunity to do this on the road.

The curtains in the picture are for privacy as well as heat protection. Some places we've stayed have been so hot, these have been life savers. He does have his own AC if he needs it. Behind the curtains is a porch. Another place he could take his desk if he chose.

So when we break down camp to travel, what does that look like? The garage turns into storage for our bikes, camp chairs, his work station and anything else we need to store. T takes the monitors down and we keep those safe on top of our bed wrapped in a blanket. He ties down the desk to the wall and tucks his laptop in his backpack. Once we arrive, he sets it all up again! Like I said, he's a hard worker!

Our adventure would not be possible if it wasn't for Terrell's job. Quite honestly, it is an amazing company to work for and has been a huge blessing to us. We are grateful.

So there you have it! Working on the road.

I love this man of mine. 💖

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

RedGate Winery- Harvest Hosts

2024-08-05T16:58:00.001-04:00

On our way to Vancouver, we decided to use Harvest Host to stay for a night and try out dry camping. Harvest Host is paid membership (and app) and once you sign up, you can stay at random places all over America. Some have hooks ups, some don't. The only thing they ask is that you support the place you stay. So for us, that meant we got to enjoy some wine at a very cool family-owned winery and had the far side of the vineyard all to ourselves. Now we didn't have electricity, so we used our batteries for lights and had water in our tank already to go. This was THE BEST experience we had so far. We happen to crash a 40th high school class reunion too. There was live music by the Vindicators and the host was super nice. We will definitely do this again.

Bend, Oregon

2024-08-05T16:30:00.000-04:00

Ok so I am way behind again! This is our next stop sorta. We stayed one night in Caldwell, Idaho on our way to Bend. We LOVE Bend. Lots of great biking for T and hiking for me. Great eateries, coffee houses, and of course the river. The RV resort we stayed at was actually closer to Sisters then Bend. Which in my opinion is even cuter by far and more quaint than Bend. We were still chasing cooler temperatures. It was HOT and the smoke was yucky some of the days from the fires in OR. The resort was lovely. These RV resorts are more crowded than camping in the forest but also has amenities like a pool and washer/dryers. I'm keeping this one brief as I reallllly want to get to present time! Just know we stayed here for almost a week and enjoyed lots of moments along the way.

And that's Bend! On to Vancouver, Washington for a few days to see our family!

Provo, Utah Lakeside Resort

2024-07-25T18:39:00.000-04:00

Alrighty... realizing as I write these stories, I am totally not taking pictures of RV life inside, only outside. I'll try harder. 😉

So Provo. Why Provo. Well, it was far enough to get us closer to Bend, OR and close enough for T to drive after work. When you're driving a big rig, it takes so much focus that 5 hours is our limit before stopping. And I found us a place to stay! That's been a challenge with the last minute, "Hey let's go adventuring this summer!" kind of travel. People book RV spots WAYYY in advance. I think I spent one full day already literally looking for places for us to stay for the next few weeks. I was getting anxious and not the way I wanted to spend my day. Plus, all I could think of was whether this was my life til we got back to Tennessee. Searching daily for a place to stay, Oy! Jumping from place to place is exhausting and hard for T to work well.

One afternoon, T asked if I'd like to walk and of course my answer was YES! Little did we know, with my nose in the phone searching all day or catching up on laundry, that tucked away was a lake less than a mile away. And this quiet little trail to boot! Such a find. Once again reminded me that the world around us is out there ready to be explored, ya just got to go. We found an old graveyard of gas station signs, some cows, gorgeous views, and some old mossy trees.

On Friday night we went into town on a date to see Twisters and grab some food. Worth seeing if you haven't yet. So that's it for Provo. Short and sweet.

The Happenings in Palisade

2024-07-25T16:08:00.003-04:00

As hot as it was in Palisade, we love what the area offered. T and I are always looking for something new to see and experience in each new place we travel. Exploring is nothing new for us, just new places. And we always bring Cribbage along. One never knows when an opportunity to play a game pops up. This part of Colorado is known for their wineries and their peach orchards. A total win for us. We went to a couple of wineries and a local brewery. There are more than 30 wineries in Palisade I believe; we barely scratched the surface. We went to Restoration Winery and Carlson Winery. One was posh and fancy-as and the other had a hometown feel. Can you guess which one we preferred?

At Carlson Winery, there was this cute kitty. I swear my husband is an animal whisperer and doesn't know it. They love him. Pick any animal and they choose him every time. Black Kitty followed us inside and then after T opened his bag of chips, jumped up to share. Sharing is caring she thought. T not so much. We pet Black Kitty and sent her on her way.

T and I have the Strava app to record our exercise. Its motivating for me and informative for him. We have different purposes for sure when it comes to this app. A little plug for Strava -Feel free to join and add us as your friend. I love giving kudos! 😊

One of the things we discussed with moving to Tennessee and now living on the road is how to stay in shape. I walk like crazy and my husband rides like crazy. So, to get that in each place we stay matters. I am also thinking about riding my bike again, but only on paved safe non-scary roads.

There is a small peach orchard on our campground property. I walked a loop that included every lane of this orchard. I am sure people watching thought what is this crazy lady doing? Well, she is getting in her miles one way or the other.

T was able to connect with a co-worker and ride in Grand Junction. It was Stephen's 60th birthday celebratory ride. They talk on the phone about their love for mountain biking and now had a chance to enjoy a ride together. How cool is that! Another great part of life on the road.

Palisade Brewing is a small hometown brewery with a few food items and some good beer. The locals hang out at this brewery. The views are amazing with the jetted red rocks in the background. We played a round of cribbage and paused from the busyness of life to take in some local culture. Each new place, each small town has its own rhythm. America is cool that way. New faces, new people, all looking for a place to belong. Hometown businesses like this are a gathering place to sit for a while and just be, making connections with your people. So we did.

All in all, our first official outing on the road was a success. Heat and all, we loved Palisade. Who doesn't love a good peach? On to our next stop...

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

First Stop, Peach Capital Colorado

2024-07-24T18:43:00.001-04:00

And we're off! Being our first big outing we planned to stay in Colorado. One, to get to know our rig and two, figure out what living on the road looks like. August has always been the peach canning month for me and with our warm spring/ hot summer in Colorado we decided to go to Palisade in hopes of grabbing some July peaches and figure this thing out.

On our way to Palisade we stopped in to see our friends in Leadville. This is definitely one of the fun parts of living on the road; slowing down to see people along the way. Jim and Jo were a part of our church group in Colorado Springs and dear people. Jim works at the airport in Leadville so we met them there to grab a hug and a tour, and it was a great spot for our camper to park. We learned something new while we were there. Leadville is North America's Highest Airport. How about that!

Back on the road heading over the pass towards Palisade. Such a gorgeous drive.

How's this for views! It was crazy hot. Like so, so, hot. The morning and evenings were grand but mid- day- sweltering! Ok funny side note, cause I can. I'm typing this and wrote squeltering. I clicked on the auto correct and it's not showing up. I know this is a word, so I ask Ciri how to spell it. He proceeds to say, "It's SWELTERING". 😏 So all this time I have been saying SQUELTERING and that's not even a word. I bet that was a mommaism. There ya go. You had a little English lesson today. Either way, it was hot.

After setting up camp, we went to town to eat dinner and celebrate this big day. We found a restaurant called Fidels. It was AMAZING. Big review here for them. If you are in Palisade this is a must do. The food was sooo good. It's a Mexican restaurant, which we love. The service and food, top notch!. And the name of the place is not what you'd think. It's this cute dog that had his own art gallery.

Ok, that was day one! A big day indeed. Back to our camper we went to sleep with the AC on. 🌞

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

Let the Adventuring Begin!

2024-07-23T18:34:00.001-04:00

So we did a thing. A BIG thing! T and I have always loved camping, traveling, being together and being outside together. When we decided to sell our home, we got this crazy idea to live on the road for while. We’re young enough and healthy enough to do it, so why not?! We went round and round about buying an RV and taking Ts job on the road. We had this dream for years! Well- guess what?

We could, so we did!

We jumped in with both feet. We searched for a perfect fit for us. That took some time. We traveled the state of Colorado looking at various RVs for sale. T needed an uninterrupted workspace that was for him and I needed a space that allowed me NOT to be “working” too. 😉

We discovered these cool 5th wheels with garages. It’s perfect! He researched office setups for the road and found a really cool desk/monitor setup. He has a door to close off his space, his own AC, and a porch. He is truly working remote. We have a separate living room, bathroom and bedroom, way too many tv’s and a fireplace to boot. We found a Ram 350 dually to haul it. She is lovingly called Bad Mamma Jamba by yours truly and is a dream to drive! I love trucks.❤️ My husband is a star driver of this long beast.

Our first stop was Salida with our dear friends Bruce and Kathy. We love Salida and staying with them was a perfect place to prepare. We had to figure this thing out, unpack and get ready for the adventure. I set aside boxes and BOXES of stuff for the RV during our move.Too much stuff! I was super organized. Apparently a bit too organized. Now we know.

So our goals for our adventuring.

Those who know us, know we are list makers and goal setters. 🤗 T plans to ride one of his bikes in every state of the union. He’s ridden a lot, and in a lot of states, but now we begin a check off list!

So far Colorado, Utah and today Oregon. 🚵‍♀️

My goals for this first adventure- rest my mind and body. Since my cancer last year, I haven’t stopped. I plan to now. Next goal- to write again. And write a lot. We’re blogging our journey along the way. I’m desperately trying to catch up to present day! And I have these children’s books rolling around my brain that need to find their way to paper.

Our goal together- to go to every National Park! That one is super exciting to us. We are hitting local breweries and wineries too, also fun. We are investing in each other; finding joy in this moment in time. 💗

So that’s what we’re doing! Come along with us.

Let the adventures begin!

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

Show Me the Water

2024-07-22T18:13:00.002-04:00

If we could be in the water, we were in the water. I love swimming. Like REALLY love it. When we moved to Colorado its the thing I missed the most about my time outside. We had a pool growing up and we had a pool when our children were littles. It's not a thing where we lived in Colorado. More of a hot tub climate. After Mom's service, T and I stayed in town for a few more days enjoying family and waiting for our belongings to arrive from Colorado. I am so grateful for the few moments in the pool with everyone. After Mom's service we went to Rob and Jo's community pool to relax and cool off then one day all the cousins went back to swim some more. We also had the joy of celebrating the 4th of July at the Johnson's home - in the pool. Not only do I love water, but it was also CRAZY hot the week we were in Tennessee. Now my home search includes a pool. 😀 Or at least the space to build one!

Yay Team Pool!

Celebrating Momma

2024-07-22T17:21:00.000-04:00

Momma loved flowers

My Red Bird tattoo

Aunt Carolyn

All things Momma

Me and Momma

Aunt Pat and Uncle Walty- Mom's brother

My siblings and dad

My playmates and cousins growing up in Kentucky

Still can't believe she's gone or that I'm writing a post talking about this moment in time. It's when I scroll through pictures on my phone, or memories pop up on Facebook, or I see people who are a huge part of mom's life that it all comes crashing in again. I've heard songs or people saying, just one more day, that's all I ask and then suddenly you're living it out, and you GET what that means. Oh goodness do I.

Before this day, life was moving so fast. So much happening at one time it has been hard to process it all still.

Selling the home we built together

Traveling to see Grands

Momma in hospital

Daughter in hospital twice

Momma dies, working on her memorial service with my sister

Figuring out Dad and how to help him

Traveling for a sweet baby dedication

Daughter slowly healing, finding help and hope 💖

Packing, and then packing some more

Saying goodbyes

T's Truck in need of serious repair- fixed finally

Physically moving

Buying Bad Mamma Jamma truck and a 5th wheel

Driving some more

Trying to catch our breath....

And here I am, sitting still finally able to write about Mom's celebration.

It was a beautiful day. A hot day but beautiful. Dad was able to share sweet memories which was so lovely to hear, my siblings and I all shared our heart, Pastor Jack spoke, Darrell sang, we all cried, prayed, and celebrated Mom.

Her favorite bird is a cardinal or "red bird" as she called it. We had the cutest little red birds in all the flower arrangements and placed around the room. A sweet nod to mom. I actually got a tattoo of one just above my ankle. We had so much yummy southern food for the reception luncheon that followed and of course sweet tea. It was A-mazing seeing so many of my cousins too. I didn't get all the pictures I had hoped for but a spattering here and there.

I really miss Momma. I miss my healthy sparkly mom. She loved life and loved her people. I know one day I get to see her again in Heaven, but for now that doesn't help much. Truth. I'd like to see her now feeling great and enjoying life. So yes, I'd like one more day.

I love you Momma. You're dearly missed.

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

Across the Midwest We Go

2024-07-16T16:45:00.005-04:00

T and I said our first goodbye to our friends James and Michele and started off towards Kansas. Our first stop was with our friends Scott and Debbie of which I apparently did not get a picture of! Sorry Northways! We woke up in the middle of the night to some loud booms. I asked T if that was thunder and then we heard it again. You've got to be kidding me! We had nothing covered in the truck or trailer. We woke up early and got back on the road for Murfreesboro with a trailer and truck full of wet. Just wet. Boxes, a big rug, tools... wet. We figured the wind would dry most of it out but we were so wrong. Why, you ask? Well, it rained even more! By the time we pulled into Murfreesboro, we had to unload everything and spread it out on the Walkers garage floor. I am still hesitant my large family room rug survived.

Evidence of how much it rained across the Midwest.

Still raining.😒

We made it! Everyone was super happy.

Let the drying begin.

This blog is called Reality Check. Here's mine- You can plan all you want. Sometimes life happens. Take it as it comes, breathe and move on.

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

Moving and New Adventures Await

2024-07-16T14:45:00.000-04:00

What a season we have been in. After YEARS of praying, talking a bit of arguing (It's real), and more waiting, we made the move to Tennessee. It was time. Three of our four kids and their families are there, two of my three siblings and their families are there and 6 of our 7 grands are there. My folks moved there last year. It was time for us to join everyone. A dream in the making for many years, 27 years to be exact. When we were in California with all of our tiny kiddos and each family started dispersing for work and lifestyle choices, we said then, "One day we will all be together again." We made that promise to each other. And this is that day! T and I prayed we'd find some friends to buy our home. No easy task, just saying, BUT GOD! I prayer walked our property last fall talking to God. Like OUT LOUD.T was working on a project and said, "What are you doing, exercising?" "Praying! I'm praying!" I told God, we need this one thing to be easy. Lots of not-so-easy had been happening and I was truly crying out to Jesus while I walked in circles, "God! Please finds some friends for this home. Find someone who needs what we created here. Please make this part easy." And He did. Oh my goodness He did just that! Why do we doubt His provision? So fast forward to this day. Moving is messy. so very messy and exhausting! I packed the whole house myself other than the garage and Ts office. He did that. We had some strong young men pack the truck out on day one and T and James finished packing it day two and three, T fined tunes all the logistics, worked his job mind you during all of this, and let's not forget unpacked the truck into storage! I'll save that for another post.

We were actually doing this. We were really moving our heart and home to Tennessee. Just before driving away, we paused in our amazing home on Forest View Way that we designed, created, and built together, cried some tears and prayed over this home one last time. Thanking God for the years He gave us and all the memories we shared at this beautiful place. We are truly thankful for the years we shared here.

Driving off to Tennessee

All this, ALL of this is for the RV.

Last minute shoving of the last few things!

Our home.💗

Cleaning, cleaning and cleaning

And this too needs a box!

So much happens in a move. So. So. Much. But we did it! Our new adventure starts now.

Goodbye Colorado. We love you. Hello Tennessee, we can't wait to see what's next!

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

And Then There Was None

2023-12-29T07:20:00.057-05:00

Come on Ring that Bell!

My biggest fan!

December 28th- I.Am.Done!

I did not expect to be as emotional as I was that day. I was ready, my family is here joining me to celebrate, let’s do this.

As I lay on the table one last time with the radiation machine doing its thing, the tears started to flow. The realization that this was it, the months of prayer, the months of pausing, the months of research and really figuring out what was best for me- it was finally done. I didn’t EVER have to come back to this Cancer Center, walk back to this very sterile room, tell them my name, birthday, which breast was getting radiated, and verify that was me on their screen they were about to zap.

At this point in treatment, I’m getting a “boost” so it did not require me to hold my breath. The targeted area being zapped was far enough away from my heart. Good thing or it would have taken awhile to finish with me trying not to sob! It did require me to be still though. The tears trickled down my cheeks as the machine hummed, red lights flashed and the equipment circled me. I’m ready for this part of my journey to be done.

And just like that, 20 radiation sessions, 20 drives to town, 20 hellos and goodbyes… complete, done, finished!

The staff retrieved my family from the waiting room to celebrate with me as I ring the bell and commemorate the end of a very big year for all of us.

Cancer doesn’t just effect the patient, it affects the people closest to you too. We all walk it out, some silently watching, some a part of the driving crew, some supporting from afar with phone calls and flowers. It’s definitely not a one man show.

Next, T and I went into the room down the hall to see the doc. A nurse I hadn’t seen before was there first to go through the list of questions about how I’m feeling and question the side effects to the radiation. Every 5 treatments requires a check-in with the doctor.

After saying No, No, No to question after question- he looked at me and said- we usually don’t have patients without any side effects. I smiled. He didn’t know my prayer on day one, now did he? Dr DeCosta came in next. Dr. DeCosta is a gem. She always hugs me, smiles and celebrates the wins. We chatted a bit, she looked at my skin, I got my discharge instructions and cried a bit more.

I wanted her to know what I prayed. I wanted her to hear the goodness of the Lord, but I couldn’t tell her yet. I would have sobbed right then and there, so I’ll be sending her this post instead.

I stopped and prayed at the sliding glass door on day one before I walked into that building- “God let me walk out the same way I walk in” and Glory to God-

I walked out the same way I walked in!

My breast is a bit more tan and I have a small patch of itchy skin, but that’s it! No fatigue, no burning, no other crazy symptoms that are on that long list the nurse read off.

Thank you Lord for answered prayers! He is merciful and gracious.

We left the Cancer Center and drove to Fuzzy’s for some of my favorite food, Mexican! Time to celebrate and rejoice! I. Am. Done!

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

10 Down, 10 to Go!

2023-12-13T18:46:00.000-05:00

Today marks Day 10 of radiation treatment. And I am doing well! No crazy side effects at all. Sometimes when I lay there waiting for them to tell me to take a deep breath and hold, I wonder if they turned the crazy thing on! I am so thankful for God’s graciousness towards me. I’m thankful for answered prayer! I'm thankful for the insight into living well during treatment. I’m thankful I’m halfway done! I’m thankful for this joyful season! I’m thankful my husband’s support! So much to be truly thankful up for this month.

Almost done. ✔️

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

One day, then the next, then the next.

2023-12-06T00:45:00.000-05:00

Radiation treatment has begun. Yep.

20 treatments, 20 days.

I was soooo hesitant to walk through that door and start radiation treatment. Actually, a bit anxious and a lot scared. I just needed more. More information, more science, more understanding, and more of Jesus. Healing comes in multiple ways. God uses his mighty hand with miracles and he uses the marvels of medicine, he uses food, and he uses people. I’m tapping into all of these this month!

I did all my homework. And anyone who knows me knows, I am a research queen. I prayed and prayed again. WE prayed and prayed again. This journey isn’t just mine. My sweet man is walking it hand in hand with me. Terrell and I are doing this together. He’s even drinking my veg smoothies!

Now it’s the last step, radiation.

Daily I drive down to St. Francis Peregrine Center and get zapped as I lovingly call it, then head home. I’m sure I’ll be a super hero with some special power when I’m done. I have creams I use twice a day to keep my breast protected, I have a calendula topical tea I use after each treatment as well that helps with any inflammation, and so far- all is well! 4 treatments down, 16 to go. I’ll finish up on the 28th of December. I am taking 20 mg of melatonin and a mushroom supplement daily to grab the yuck from radiation and get it out of my body. Actually, I am taking a plethora of supplements right now to strengthen me as I walk this out. Between that, exercise and good nutrition- most of the time😉, I feel really good.

My desire, my prayer, that you can pray with me is this- Lord, let me walk out of those doors on day 20 as good as I’m walking in on day 1. Let me bring joy to this place and a bit of Jesus every time I come. ( I prayed this as I was just about to walk in for my first treatment) They see a lot of patients each day. I am sure some of the stories are quite hard. I’m believing God has me here for such a time as this. He is my healer. He can protect my heart, my lung, and my skin and my breast tissue throughout this whole month. They keep preparing me for the fatigue that’s supposed to hit day 14 and beyond. I say- No. My God is bigger than day 14 and beyond.

Please pray with me, for me. I so appreciate it!

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones

One step, then another

2023-11-15T12:41:00.003-05:00

Healing. Being whole. Fighting. Winning the battle.

Lots of words thrown around in the cancer realm.

I pause every time I talk about my cancer to someone. I think- What the heck do I say?! “I had cancer.” or “I have cancer.” It’s out of my body so it’s had but the journey isn’t over so I just stumble over my words. I don’t know. Eventually this conversation will be easier. I actually even forget at times about it. I feel really good. All these veggies I’m eating 😂, other big lifestyle changes and getting the cancer out of my body has given me new strength. I’m depending on this and Jesus to get me through radiation next month. That seems like someone else’s life too right now, not mine. Even typing it- craziness. The idea of going 5 days a week to be zapped sounds like a movie, not my reality.

Let me just say, God is so gracious. I am drawn in by His goodness to me. He is my strength! He is my sustenance. Amen and amen. I’m so thankful for this getaway with my Love before the yuck of therapy. I didn’t know how much I needed it.

While he’s working in the office, I’ve got a few things keeping me busy. One is exercising. The hotel has new equipment and no one using it. Being at this low elevation has not only made me more alive but guess what- I can run! So run I did. 🏃🏼‍♀️ It felt so good and now, back to crocheting. ☺️

Thanks for listening,

Tuna Jones