Author: Sharli Allen

I was so proud of Dane and I today! We had planned to get up and head towards Sedona with enough time to stop at Walnut Canyon on the way, and because we were so in sync we were able to hit the road at 9am.

Dane usually breaks down the outside and likewise I do the inside. Both jobs must be coordinated to some degree as it would not go well if the water was shut off before the water bottles filled up, or the dishes and sink cleaned. He needs me to work diligently so when he is ready we can get the slides in together. I feel like we have it down to a well-oiled machine. Praise the Lord! We have been having issues with one of our slides and sadly we believe it’s one of the motors. It usually moans and groans and stops and then Dane must push it in. Yet, was different! I prayed before and during pressing that button and asked the Lord to bring that slide in without an issue. He is so faithful! It did not even stutter or stop once! I tell you what faithfulness is a beautiful thing.

My advice to anyone who travels in an RV, trailer or 5^th wheel is to stick down everything you don’t want to move each time. For us, I have my basket of oils, plants, toothbrush holder and small trinkets in the bathroom taped to the shelves. This way when it is time to move the slides in and hit the road I do not have to worry about those things. However, I still must move the children’s bookshelf, hat rack, tea kettle, place towel between stove and stove rack and put away all dishes or things that will slide. Once you do it a few times it is like second nature.

We drove about 4 hours from our KOA in Tucson and took a short detour to Walnut Canyon National Monument. The drive into the monument was full of fir trees and my daughter and I were immediately drawn to them. It has been awhile since we have seen trees other than small shrubs and this was such a beautiful treat. They were tall and elegant as if dancing on cliffs and exposed roots upon walkways.

One of the reasons we stopped here is so we could be immersed in the life and ways of the Hopi tribe.  Our adventure is exciting and fun which is also how I believe history should be taught. When we are immersed in history and then able to experience it a depth takes place inside of us that would not have been there otherwise.

We arrived at our campground around 5:00 and as usual the children went to the playground as Dane and I set up, he on the outside and myself on the inside. This KOA is smaller than some of the others and the laundry facility was nearby so … tonight was my night for laundry. I actually don’t mind the laundry mat because I can do all loads at one time, something that could never be achieved at home. So within 1 hour all laundry was washed, dried and folded. Perfection!

As Sunny and I were walking home it was extremely dark but the moon was so bright and we could see a million stars in the sky. Dane and Nixon were singing songs at the campfire and it was a beautiful sight. This is our why. This is why we have invested this time with our children and away from friends and family. So we could be together in God’s creation diving deeper.

We decided to stay one more day at the KOA in Tucson. The campgrounds are exceptionally nice and we really needed a no travel catch-up day. Dane was able to spend some time working and the children and I had a full day of lessons. We have been keeping up with our core work as we travel but it is usually while we are moving in the RV. So it is nice to sit outside or to be stationary while we work.

Polly got a bath and the children swam in the pool. I met an awesome family that is also traveling the country with their 4 children. They have been on the road for about 5 months and will return to SC in December. That is something about this adventure that I really love. Just meeting people along the way who dream the way you dream. Who desire to see the world, love history and don’t mind giving up modern conveniences to live in such a small space.

We head to Sedona tomorrow and then the Grand Canyon. Days like today are needed to recuperate and rest, grateful we were able to do so before a few days of hikes, travel and fun.

When planning this trip we were originally going to stay at my Mamaw’s house in Marana, but due to the added risks of her age and our traveling we decided it would be safer to stay in a campground nearby. Which is why we ended up staying in Tucson. I grew up going to her house often and have the best memories of her and my Papa eating lunch after church. She always made the best rolls and I felt so loved by her. She taught me how to make my bed with hospital corners and why it is important for a lady to sit and stand up straight, all things a growing girl should know. Albeit I did not appreciate all of those things then, I certainly do now. When we stayed with her while our parents were on vacation she would rock the sandwich lunch game. My mother did not have a chance at making our lunches successfully after a week with Mamaw. She would stack our sandwiches high with meat, lettuce, cheese and tomato on amazing homemade bread. I can picture them now and so can my stomach!

So you see, my Mamaw is important to me. She is special and loved and sadly I don’t get to see her as much as I used to. So this trip to see her was at the top of my list when planning.

We spent the day on her back porch remembering times before and talking about what all is ahead. She is always full of wisdom and I soak in every word she has to say. We ate an early Thanksgiving meal together and did what we could to show affection in a world riddled with the Coronavirus. I wanted to ensure her safety and we were very careful in how we interacted – even though I wanted to hug and squeeze her so tight! I did so in my mind.

We spent the rest of our day at the campstie in the pool, by the fire or riding our bikes. It was a beautiful day, one not easily forgotten.

Today we head out for Arizona! I am excited to hit the road because it means we get to see my Mamaw tomorrow! The last time I was in Arizona was when my Papa was not well and I flew out to be with him during his last moments. It is hard to not reminisce of times gone by when you are in familiar places you don’t walk often. I remember my sister and I going to Target in mourning to purchase clothes we were not prepared to buy. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time and I remember feeling comfort she was there with me.

We arrived at our new campsite around 4 and the children of course ran to the playground. I had requested this site because it was right next to the pool and the playground. Prime location when you have small children. The campsite is stunning. The views are not what we have become accustomed to but the cleanliness, full hookups, paved sites and warm weather overcome the views. And a beautiful campsite is not so bad to look at either.

We are all looking forward to a few days of rest and maybe even a few coffee shops too.

Woke up before the sun rose to get a little bit of time alone before everyone’s eyes opened to a new day. I gathered my morning quiet time essentials and quietly went outside. Wrapped warmly in my blanket as the sun rose up and covered my face with it’s glory. The most magnificent show was before me as the rays of light painted color upon the clouds.

Waking up before the sun rises opens up the day to me in a way that sleeping in does not. Once the children are up I like to start our school day and breakfast. Even in the RV I try to still keep a rhythm to our days, especially when we have down days.

We decided to hike the Organ Mountains today and because it requires a few packs to be well equipped I needed some time to gather our supplies. Thankfully I always keep some essentials like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, first aid kit with lavender and band aids, knife, water filter (just in case and for fun), compass, binoculars, chap stick and our field guides in my pack. We were packing our lunches in and lots of water. I usually always have both children carry a small pack to get used to having one, as they grow they will be asked to carry more of the load. Today’s hike I knew would be at least 3 miles around and I felt it was not a great time for my almost 5 year old to carry a pack. How great I am that he was not!

The ride to the mountain was beautiful. The mountains here are immaculate – and yet how easily accessible they are to climb around and drive to. They have not been tainted by human hands and are as they should be. On our way in we saw what we believe to be elk standing on the side of the mountain grazing.

We started our climb on the Dripping Sands Trail and decided to continue on when we reached the Fillmore Trail – we stopped for lunch on a beautiful rock. Which if I am completely transparent I must say that I have zero desire to be on an edge of anything anywhere. We ate sandwiches and crackers and got our fill of water. As we continued on the trail we kept thinking it would soon turn back towards the visitor center but we kept creeping farther up and not around. As we did eventually round out the hike we were all so ecstatic especially when we realized that we had hiked around 5 miles that day!

I am incredibly proud of my children! They stated at times how tired their legs were, or needed to sit for water but overall they pushed through and accomplished an incredible feat for a 4 and 7 year old. I did my best to encourage them along the way, we would play “would you rather,” or rhyming words and sing songs together. I spoke encouragement, reminding them of hero’s gone before who persevered and accomplished incredible tasks, battles, and overcame obstacles. This always pushes my son forward much more so than his sister, who tends to desire more hand holding than he does. God created both of them uniquely and I try my best to recognize what they need and meet them there. I or Dane held her hand and encouraged her while we let my son ‘lead’ us.

We high fived our accomplishments once we arrived at the car and went off for ice cream. Ttoday was a pretty incredible day of family accomplishments and individual achievements.

Headed west to Las Cruces and grateful it is just an hour north of the Mexican border. which means only about 2 hours from where we are. On the way we chose to stop at a historic and authentic Mexican restaurant for lunch. After much research we found ourselves in Historic Mesilla which is just south of Las Cruces. As we started driving into Mesilla I was in awe. The buildings were immaculate, I could feel the culture seeping from each corner and family home. I was drawn in and overcome with love for this place. Due to the coronavirus mandates the towns famous Plaza was closed and although I missed seeing so many people enjoying their daily life I was able to really see the entire town seemingly almost uninhabited.

We ate at La Posta de Mesilla which is on the corner of Mesilla Plaza diagonal from the Basilica of San Albino (build in 1855) and the courtroom where Billy the Kid once stood trial. If you are ever in Mesilla you must eat at La Posta! The atmosphere is enchanting with authentic décor, food and fiesta blouses worn by servers. We had the stuffed tacos and chicken with red chili sauce. From homemade chips to fresh margarita’s it did not disappoint.

We have been having some trouble with one of our slides, so we decided to split up after lunch. The children and I went exploring through the town purchasing souveniers and Christmas gifts, while Dane took Polly to get checked out. This allowed the children and I to see the Basilica, Mesilla Plaza and walk between historical Adobe buildings and greet strangers with smiles. Albeit the mask covers our mouth but you can always tell a smile by the eyebrows and eyes. Everyone was so incredibly nice and welcoming.

We rode with the windows down to our new campsite. We usually look for KOA campgrounds for a few reasons. 1^st – we enjoy the amenities of a playground, laundry, wifi and hookups and 2^nd we know they are usually pretty consistent and safe. We have and will stay at other campgrounds as we travel but when we find a good KOA we choose to stay there. Tonight we are at the KOA in Las Cruces and it is BEAUTIFUL. There is a playground for the children, but it is the views that stand out! The campground sits up on a mountain ridge overlooking the large city of Las Cruces and the Organ Mountains to the east.

The sunset was incredible, with the sun reflecting light on the mountains we had quite a show tonight. Due to the no fire ordinance we were not able to have a fire but we made do with our lanterns and enjoyed a game of Candyland with the children and I of course did not win, I don’t know what it is about Candyland but I am never ever able to win.

I am not sure what we will wake up and do tomorrow. We talked about exploring the town, going hiking on a trail recommended to us by our neighbors or enjoying some downtime. We shall see what the daylight brings friends. Enjoy yours, you never get this one back no matter what it brings you. That chain link fence or the mountains with the sun cascading off it. No matter what it brings there is Joy somewhere here.

History of Mesilla, NM

If you know me well, you know I am an idealist and chase knowledge. At the top of my list is history, all history. The history that does not just speak from the mouth of victors but also from the mouths of the oppressed, the ones who made all of the choices and those who were affected by the choice makers. It is important that we dissect and relearn the history we were taught with bias and replace it with history that is unbiased. It is the growth that springs forth from knowledge and makes way for changes in your own life while influencing the way you see things.

Seeing Mesilla is like looking upon the most beautiful crystal that is rubbed and becomes more beautiful with time.

Mesilla was first known as no-man’s land, no one claimed (US or Mexico) or they both did. However in 1845 the United States needed land to extend the Transcontinental Railway, yet they did not have the rights to the land they needed, Mesilla. The current Mexican President was Santa Anna and with his treasury empty he eventually agreed and signed the Gadsden Purchase for 30,000 miles north of the border for $10 million dollars. Due to impatience and an adjustment in the deal (originally 15 million and more miles) Santa Anna was overthrown and exiled. (That guy! He President for 12 non-consecutive years and 12 terms and was exiled many times, yet somehow always managed to come back on top.)

Santa Anna is also the reason we all are chewing gum. During his exile he brought Chicle (a substance) to the United States to convince tire makers it was a good choice to manufacture tires with. They refused, and somehow it evolved into what we all find on that top shelf at WaWas. (If you are not from the Southeast, that is a the glory of all glories Gas Stations.)

I woke up exceptionally early, I am not sure if it is the time change, train horn or the traffic I could heard or just the time change. I stole a glance out our window and saw a chain link fence and storage facility within view. If I said I was feeling thankful it would be a lie. This is the moment during a trip when you must choose to either look at the mud or the stars. I am ashamed to say that I chose the mud and decided I would see if we could move locations.

I went in my pajamas and slippers telling myself as I walked past so many empty sites that we could for sure move. Yet, I was wrong and I walked out of the office feeling sad and defeated. Being the one who planned the trip I felt a bit of a burden when things did not go as planned. This being the first time I did not really know how to deal with it.

As I walked into Polly I wanted to cry, and I looked at Dane and shook my head no. He took me in his arms and told me it was going to be okay. Nothing could take the joy away from the trip. I am grateful that when I fall apart he is a pillar of strength. As I walked outside all of a sudden saw the most beautiful landscape on the other side of Polly. Even here where chain link fences ruled and traffic drowned out peace there was beauty, God’s masterpiece. Just like us. We are His masterpieces but sometimes we choose to look at the chain link fences in our lives instead of the mountains. How glorious it was to behold his beauty.

We drove about 20 miles to White Sands National Park that afternoon with a bag of snacks, waters and slides. If you ever visit you must have the round sleds – not the flat kind (OH and must have a flat bottom!)! As we drove into the dunes there were tons of little stopping points to get out and walk – but we kept driving. Dane was determined to go all the way to the back – which is miles and miles. Our children yelled with great anticipation to stop but we kept on. Oh how happy I am we did! We ended up at the very end of the dunes where each car gets an awesome shelter and sit on picnic tables. We hiked the dunes, sled down, made sand angels, laughed together, and enjoyed life as we sat on this big mountain of sand looking at the beautiful mountains surrounding us. There are no pictures I could ever take to explain the majestic beauty of that place.

Our night ended around the campfire with smores and sticks caught on fire as torches. Well, until a blanket caught on fire by an excited ember.

Although we did find beauty in our campsite we still decided to head to a different campsite. Alamogordo is beautiful, however with the Coronavirus there are a lot of parks that only allow residents of New Mexico to visit or hike – and in the end that was our deciding factor to head West to Las Cruces.

Today was beautiful and hard. I somehow had decided during my trip planning, that a 10 hour trip across Texas was going to be a good idea for us and Polly. I have never driven all the way across Texas, I mean let’s be real here, I have only flown to Texas to the be picked up by an uber or family. Never have I driven across the entire state in one day…not sure why I felt we could do it except we really just needed to get to NM.

The landscape was stunning, wide open plains as far as my eyes could see with the faintest glimmer of a mountain in the distance. It is incredible how different each states ecosystems and landscapes are. We drove along 3+ hours of beautiful cattle farms on Highway 20. LARGE CATTLE FARMS. 100s of acres worth of land with cattle roaming on vast plains with brush. We would drive an hour before ever seeing a homestead and sometimes we never would see anyone or anything.

When you picture a gas station without an attendant what do you picture? We were in need of gas but it had been hours since we had seen any sign of anything but ranches. We pulled up our gas app and saw there was one within 30 miles, we drove on. When we arrived it was actually just a gas pump with a pay station. And no matter, were so grateful for it. That entire area just felt nostalgic as if I was back in a time where everyone depended only on what they could grow from the land. Beautiful and simple. You don’t often, or never, drive through such vast amounts of land without having anything assault your senses – no city lights, no stores, no traffic just the grass swaying and the animals living life.

It truly was such a beautiful drive but it was also very difficult on Dane. While the children napped or I read he was not given any luxury except to drive and control this big rig for hours upon hours. Yet, not once did he complain and when we did finally arrive at our campsite he told me he had been praying the entire time once the sun went down. We were nowhere near anyone we knew, on dark desolate roads pulling 45 feet of gear and our little ones. I am grateful for his prayers and God’s faithfulness in it. When we finally got to our destination in New Mexico it was around 9pm and the campground office was closed so we successfully navigated to our site solo. We did not bother putting out the slides – I carried a sleeping Sunny to her bed while Dane looked for something to feed his growling stomach. He was wiped!

Dane and Nixon sat up eating cheese sticks and Nixon declared, “YUM this is the best lunch ever!” He is truly the funniest person in our family, he is also the most outspoken which is saying a lot with Dane and I as his parents. Our heads hit the pillow grateful for Dane’s prayers as he drove and that we had made it without any major issues.

We spent the day with family. Exploring the trails in their neighborhood, eating at a local spot, working out and relaxing. Today was one of those days you would have on repeat. It was fun, easy and filled with laughter. Honestly with the Lucas’ family there is always a whole lot of laughter and a whole lot of wrestling.

I had to spend a little bit of time getting ready for the long haul ahead to New Mexico and Dane spent some time working as well. I ordered groceries and washed clothes which only took a very short time. Thankful for my family for letting us stay a few nights, your hospitality warmed our hearts.

I sure will miss you, until next time my sweet sweet family. XO