The Chaos Before the Calm: Preparing the RV, the House, and All the Critters for a Two-Week Getaway

Vacations are a beautiful thing… once you’re actually on them. But let’s be honest: the days leading up to a big family road trip? That’s where the real adventure begins.

As we get ready to hit the road for a two-week RV trip from Texas to California and back, I’ve found myself juggling everything from itinerary planning to chicken-sitter coordination—while also trying to pack, prep, and pray I don’t forget someone’s toothbrush.

The Winnebago: Our Home on Wheels

The RV has been cleaned top to bottom, restocked, and reorganized at least three times. I’ve filled cabinets with snacks, paper towels, backup flashlights, and backup batteries. The bedding is washed, the fridge is prepped, and I even tested the generator—twice. I have lists for everything, from “Kitchen Essentials” to “Emergency Dog Treats.”

We chose a motorhome over a pull-behind trailer for simplicity on the road, and I have zero regrets—except when I’m trying to fit a month’s worth of clothes and food into cabinets built for minimalist monks. There's a previous blog post on the pros and cons and why we chose the one we ended up with. Buddy changed the oil in both the RV and the generator so we are good to go and road ready!

The House: Secure and Chicken-Checked

Our homestead doesn’t stop just because we’re traveling. Thankfully, we have a little army of helpers keeping things running. My amazing mother-in-law Kim is keeping an eye on our chickens, making sure their water stays fresh and they don’t launch escape attempt.

LE and Megan—family heroes—are stepping in to care for our special-needs cat, Costca. She needs a bit more attention than the average kitty, and I’m so grateful to know she’s in good hands.

And Buddy’s coworker kindly volunteered to care for Lola, our rabbit. (Lola is undoubtedly the easiest member of this household—unless you count the chickens.)

Elora is sad to leave Lola behind

The Pets: Kanga and Luna Come Along

Our two dogs, Kanga and Luna, are coming with us. Which means… dog beds, leashes, food bins, travel bowls, and vet records. They’ve seen the suitcase pile-up and are already pacing—part excitement, part “what now, mom?” It's funny- every time I go into the RV to clean or pack, they think its their que to jump in.

They’ll be riding with us in the RV, heads out the window, adding joy and chaos in equal measure.

A Mother’s Plight: Laundry, Lists, and Love

Meanwhile, I’m over here doing what every mom knows too well—laundry. So. Much. Laundry. Clothes for hiking, swimming, sleeping, lounging, and “just in case we eat somewhere nice.” Not to mention socks. Why are socks always the last thing people remember?

My husband Buddy has been working long hours, and I’ve been trying to handle the bulk of the planning so he doesn’t have to worry. I’ve mapped out our route, booked our RV sites, and pinned every coffee stop along the way (for both our sanity and safety).

The truth is, I know once we’re out there, rolling through mountains and desert landscapes, soaking in every sunrise and memory, all of this prep will be worth it. But right now? It’s pure chaos—with a touch of magic.

Countdown to Takeoff

We're almost ready. The RV is loaded, the house is buttoned up, the animals are spoken for, and I have lists taped to the fridge, the dashboard, and my forehead. And while it may look like a logistical nightmare to some, I see it as proof of the love and effort it takes to create a family adventure worth remembering.

Here’s to smooth roads, safe travels, and stories we’ll tell for years to come.

– Steph D.