Some people spend their afternoons enjoying a quiet cup of coffee.
Others find themselves refereeing emotionally charged arguments between a 36-foot Tiffin motorhome and the Chevrolet tow car that drags them all over America.
Guess which category I fell into today? Yeah, refereeing Rosie & Bertie Bea!
Bertie Bea and Rosie, ready to go in Red Bay, Alabama.
The Parking Lot Showdown
The sun hadn’t even hit the top of the trees at Kick Back Ranch when Rosie rolled up to Bertie Bea with more attitude than a barrel racer late for her run.
Rosie:
“Well, look who’s polishing her mirrors like she’s the Queen of Ocean Lakes.”
Bertie Bea:
“I am simply maintaining my appearance. Unlike some vehicles, I have a reputation to uphold.”
Rosie revved her engine in offense.
Rosie:
“Oh please, Your Majesty. You get a little sideswipe and suddenly you’re the tragic heroine of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life. Meanwhile, I’m the one hauling Stan to every grocery store, fish market, and taco stand this side of the Mississippi!”
Bertie Bea:
“I provide luxury accommodations, climate-controlled comfort, and the dignity of a proper home on wheels.”
Rosie:
“Yeah? And I provide turning radius, fuel efficiency, and the ability to park without requiring a Top Gun landing instructor!”
This is where I, foolishly, decided to intervene.
Selfie in Great Falls… Rosie didn’t make this trip.
My Intervention (Failed Epically)
Me, stepping in like I’ve got control of this circus:
“Okay, girls, listen, we’re all part of the same team. We travel together. We explore together. We…”
Rosie:
“Team? TEAM? Stan, she referred to herself as the ‘star’ of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life. I’m the one doing the WORK.”
Bertie Bea:
“Oh, here we go…”
Rosie:
“And you’re over there posting on Facebook like you’re doing Shakespeare in the Park!”
Bertie Bea:
“I simply stated facts. The people enjoy my presence.”
Rosie:
“People also enjoy functioning slide-outs, but you didn’t see me bragging when that happened!”
The argument devolved into a cacophony of headlight flickering, door-click muttering, and more dramatic revving than a Fast & Furious audition.
I tried again.
“Ladies, please… let’s use our kind voices.”
They ignored me like I was a traffic cone in a Walmart parking lot.
This was officially above my pay grade.
Managment showing off Bertie Bea’s Wandering Gypsy RV Life banner.
Escalation to Management (Mama Sandra)
Every RV owner knows:
When chaos hits DEFCON 1… you call Management.
Six hours later, Management arrived with her no-nonsense tone locked and loaded.
Management:
After a long drive to Kick Back Ranch, Management said, “Alright, what’s all this ruckus? I could hear you two in North Carolina. Stan, move.”
I stepped aside. I know better.
Management (to Rosie):
“Did you call me again to file a complaint?”
Rosie:
“Yes, ma’am. Respectfully.”
Management (to Bertie Bea):
“And you… you know better than to flaunt yourself like you’re the only thing keeping this brand running.”
Bertie Bea:
“Management, I simply shared my experience.”
Management raised an eyebrow, the same eyebrow that once ended arguments between my little brother and me before they even started.
Management:
“Enough. You’re both essential. Bertie Bea, you’re the home. Rosie, you’re the freedom. Stan would be lost without either of you. Now shake bumpers and behave.”
Rosie sighed.
Bertie Bea flicked her headlights apologetically.
Peace was restored, at least until the next social media post.
Final Thoughts
What did I learn today?
My motorhome and my tow car both have bigger personalities than most people I know including me.
I am wildly unqualified to mediate between them.
Management is the only authority either of them respects.
And honestly?
I wouldn’t have it any other way.
After all…
In the Wandering Gypsy RV Life…
the rigs have just as much story to tell as the traveler.
If you’ve been around the RV world long enough, you’ve probably heard the legend of Red Bay, Alabama, a small town with a big heart, loyal RVers, and the finest Class A repair talent you’ll find anywhere in the country. But if you’re new here, pull up a camp chair, pour yourself a coffee, and let me paint you a picture.
Welcome back, fellow wanderers, to another edition of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life! I’m your host, Stan Cromlish—full-timer, storyteller, and recent unwilling participant in a campground sideswipe incident involving my 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, lovingly known as Bertie Bea.
Yes… she got kissed at Ocean Lakes Family Campground.
And no… not the romantic kind.
More like the “Hey buddy, your mirror is now hanging by a prayer” kind.
But like most good road tales, this one has a happy ending—thanks to the cottage service culture surrounding Red Bay, Alabama, and Belmont, Mississippi.
These small shops are the backbone of the Tiffin owner experience, built by former Tiffin craftsmen who know every bolt, brace, stripe, and seal on these rigs. And this past week, they proved—yet again—why Tiffin owners remain some of the most loyal RVers in the world.
A Town Unlike Any Other: Welcome to Red Bay
Red Bay Acres, Red Bay, Alabama
Red Bay isn’t your typical service stop.
It’s a quiet Southern town. Trucks rumble down the main road. Folks wave when you pass. And at any given moment, you’ll see a parade of Class A motorhomes rolling through the stoplight like it’s the most natural thing in the world.
Because here—it is.
Red Bay is home to Tiffin Motorhomes, and the people here take pride in every coach that rolls off that line. That loyalty has created a full ecosystem of small specialty shops—many run by former Tiffin employees—who know these rigs inside and out.
It’s not just repairs.
It’s craftsmanship.
It’s tradition.
It’s community.
And it’s why so many of us return year after year.
Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes – Belmont, MS
Paint, Bodywork & a Whole Lot of Magic
Bertie Bea Getting Prepped for Repairs at Pro FinishesBertie Bea Before RepairBertie Bea After Repair
Let’s start with the shop I spent Wednesday through Friday at: Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes.
Ricky and his crew are true bodywork and paint magicians. Former Tiffin painters and technicians who know every color code, clear coat formula, and curve on these rigs. When Bertie Bea rolled in looking a little rough after her sideswipe, Ricky turned a bad week into a blessing.
I pulled into his bay Wednesday… slept there overnight… and by Friday afternoon?
✨ Factory fresh.
✨ Flawless paint match.
✨ Perfect repair.
✨ Fast turnaround.
If you ever need paint or bodywork done, this is the guy you trust.
Fowler Detailing – Belmont, MS
Shine Like You Mean It
Fowler Detailing Giving Bertie Bea a Showroom ShineRosie Shining Like a New Penny after Fowler Detailing Shined Her Up
Next up is one of the absolute legends of Red Bay: Fowler Detailing.
This is not your typical “truck stop spray-down.” Fowler goes deeper than deep:
Roof
Sides
Wheels
Compartments
Oxidation
Sealant
Finishing
And the kind of shine that makes your rig look showroom ready
Their oxidation removal is unreal. Their sealant work is slicker than a buttered slide-out rail. And every time Bertie Bea leaves Fowler’s, she rolls out glowing like she just woke up on her birthday.
If you want your Tiffin to look better than factory, Fowler’s is the stop.
Bunkhouse RV Conversions – Red Bay, AL
Where “What If” Becomes Reality
New Dinette Seating in Bertie Bea Courtesy of Bunkhouse RV ConversionsNew Theater Seating in Bertie Bea Courtesy of Bunkhouse RV Conversions
Then there’s the creative crew over at Bunkhouse RV Conversions—the interior wizards of Red Bay.
Got an idea?
A dream?
A “what if we moved this here and added that there?”
Bunkhouse makes it happen.
Whether you’re adding bunks for grandkids, redesigning your living space, building an office, crafting custom cabinetry, or installing new entertainment setups—they blend creativity with the classic Tiffin style.
They don’t just modify your coach.
They elevate it.
Precision RV – Golden, MS
Slide-Out Whisperers & Roof Reseal Masters
Precision RV Doing Roof Strip & ResealSlide Problem Fixed by Precision RV
If you own a Tiffin, you know the truth:
Slides are temperamental.
Some days they glide like butter.
Some days they grind like a teenager being asked to wake up before noon.
And then… some days… they just stop.
Precision RV has saved my sanity more than once. These folks excel at the stubborn, mysterious problems—the issues that three other shops tell you “should be fine” even though they clearly are not.
Their strengths include:
Expert slide-out troubleshooting
Patient, methodical diagnostics
Full roof strip-and-reseal jobs with flawless attention to detail
No shortcuts
No “good enough”
They do the job right the first time, and their work lasts. They’ve become one of my absolute go-to resources anytime Bertie Bea starts acting up.
Brewer Electronics – Red Bay, AL
The Wiring Wizards
Electricity is one of those things that can bite—especially at 50 amps.
That’s where Brewer Electronics shines. These folks are masters of the wiring world, turning spaghetti bowls of cables into clean, organized, functional systems that make sense.
Their specialties:
TVs & audio
Satellite installs
Camera systems
Wiring gremlins
Electronic diagnostics
Modern upgrades
They’ve kept Bertie Bea’s electronics running smooth more than once, and their turnaround is always fast and professional.
Tiffin Service Center – Red Bay, AL
The Mothership
Oil Change and Chassis Inspection at Bob Tiffin Service CenterGetting Repairs at Bob Tiffin Service Center
No Red Bay trip would be complete without mentioning the Tiffin Service Center—the mothership. This is the pilgrimage site for Tiffin owners, the family reunion, the heart of the operation.
For major structural repairs, cap replacements, factory adjustments, and warranty work, nobody does it better. The Service Center is big, efficient, and staffed by people who’ve built these motorhomes for decades.
But the true magic?
It doesn’t stand alone.
It exists as part of a larger, more powerful ecosystem.
The Heart of the Tiffin Community
Red Bay and Belmont aren’t just repair destinations—they’re a lifestyle.
Spend any time here and you’ll see:
RVers helping RVers
Shops recommending each other
Stories swapped in campgrounds
Technicians and owners sharing meals in local diners
Friendships formed over repairs and upgrades
This ecosystem is built on craftsmanship, trust, southern hospitality, and generations of Tiffin pride.
It’s why Tiffin owners stay loyal.
It’s why we keep rolling back into town.
It’s why we feel like we’re part of a family.
Rolling Smooth, Thanks to Red Bay
Whether you’re chasing down a stubborn slide issue, getting a full roof reseal, shining up your rig, or repairing a sideswipe gone wrong like I just did—Red Bay’s cottage shops have your back.
From Ricky McGee’s perfect bodywork…
To Fowler’s spectacular detailing…
To Bunkhouse’s custom interior magic…
To Precision RV’s troubleshooting brilliance…
To Brewer Electronics’ wiring wizardry…
To the unmatched expertise of the Tiffin Service Center…
These small businesses keep us rolling smooth—literally and figuratively.
The Black Tank Blues – Written by Stan Cromlish – Music and Vocals by Donna AI
Some seasons on the road are smooth. Others come with a full-blown case of what I like to call the Black Tank Blues.
The summer of 2025 handed me the deluxe edition.
Most years, I’ll have one or two “memorable” black tank events—the kind of disasters you only laugh about after you’ve changed clothes and the smell has finally surrendered. But that summer, the black tank gremlins were working overtime.
Now, this particular story isn’t even about my black tank, which almost makes it worse. I was an innocent bystander. No hoses hooked up wrong, no valves left closed, no rookie mistakes. I was just minding my own business… and still ended up soaked, smelly, and swearing.
I had rolled into Mountain Cove Farms Resort in Chickamauga, Georgia, for the 11th Annual Cowboy & Cowgirl Reunion—a weekend full of rodeo stories, cowboy church, and good friends. Bertie Bea was leveled and settled, awning out, chairs in the shade. Boots off, book in hand, cicadas humming, horses nickering in the distance. One of those rare quiet moments on the road when everything feels just right.
Then my phone buzzed.
It was an old friend, one of those guys you’ve known long enough that you never hesitate to pick up. He’d just pulled in with his travel trailer a few sites over, but his voice had that tone every RVer recognizes—the “I’ve got a problem and I don’t know what to do” tone.
“Hey, Stan, you got a minute? I can’t get water to my sink or shower.”
Book down. Hat on. Off I went.
On the back of his trailer were two hose connections. One was clearly labeled “City Water Connection.” The other? No label. Just a lonely brass fitting daring someone to guess wrong.
I didn’t like the feeling creeping into my gut.
Sure enough, his fresh water hose was not connected to the city water inlet. It was hooked up to the black tank flush.
If you’re new to RV life, the black tank flush sprays water into your sewage tank to rinse it out—after you’ve dumped it. If you leave the valve closed and keep pumping water in, you’re basically turning your black tank into a water balloon.
I asked if he’d noticed water running anywhere strange.
“Yeah,” he said, pointing to the roof. “I thought maybe the air conditioner was leaking.”
Oh, it was leaking all right. Just not what he thought.
When your black tank is full with nowhere else to go, it finds a way. In this case, it was burping up and out of the roof vent. Brown streaks on a white travel trailer are not the kind of campground accent you’re going for.
Still trying to give him the benefit of the doubt, I asked, “No water coming out of the sinks? The shower?”
He shook his head.
That’s when my stomach sank. I knew exactly what had happened.
We moved the hose to the correct connection and, like magic, his faucets sprang to life. He grinned, relieved. Me? I had that uneasy, twitchy feeling you get when you know the worst part of the story hasn’t arrived yet.
I excused myself, walked into his bathroom, and pressed the flush pedal on the toilet.
And that’s when Mount Vesuvius erupted.
Not steam. Not lava. Something far worse.
With a violent gurgle, his black tank unleashed its fury straight upward, and I happened to be standing at ground zero. One second, I was pressing a pedal, the next, I was baptized in a shower of sewage.
I don’t remember exactly what came out of my mouth, but I can promise you it wasn’t fit for Sunday school. I yelled, slammed the toilet lid down, and stumbled backward as I’d just survived a geyser in Yellowstone.
The smell? Let’s just say it was… memorable.
By the time the eruption subsided, I was standing there dripping, shoes ruined, dignity long gone. And then—I laughed. Because honestly, what else do you do when you’ve just taken your third shower of the day: one planned, one courtesy of a toilet, and one to wash off the aftermath?
My friend stood there wide-eyed, like a kid who’d just set off fireworks in the living room. “I’m so sorry,” he stammered.
I waved him off. “Buddy, don’t apologize. Just learn. And maybe buy me a new shirt.”
Here’s the thing: he wasn’t a rookie. He’d been RVing for years. But that’s the Black Tank Blues for you—they don’t care if it’s your first trip or your hundredth. One wrong connection, one missing label, and you’ve got a story that will follow you forever.
These days, my recommendation is simple, and I share it with anyone who will listen:
Pay attention to your connections.
Labels exist for a reason.
If your rig doesn’t have labels, make some—Sharpie, label maker, duct tape, whatever it takes.
Because the last thing you want is to confuse your city water inlet with your black tank flush. Trust me, it’s a mistake you only make once.
As for me, I headed back to Bertie Bea, peeled off my foul-smelling clothes, and took another long, scalding shower. Then I poured myself a stiff drink, sat back under the awning, and shook my head.
The Black Tank Blues had struck again—only this time, I wasn’t even the one at fault.
That’s RV life in a nutshell. Sometimes you’re the victim of your own mistakes, and sometimes you’re just standing in the wrong place at the wrong time. Either way, you learn, you laugh, and eventually… You tell the story.
And if you’re me, you buy soap in bulk, too. Because you never know when you’ll need that third shower of the day.
Hey there, Fellow Wanderers. If you’ve been following my adventures with Bertie Bea and Rosie, you know the road is full of surprises—some breathtaking, some hilarious, and some you’d rather not repeat. Today, I want to share a story that’s all too familiar for many RVers, and explain why a dashcam is now one of my most trusted travel companions.
The Day Bertie Bea Got Sideswiped
It was a typical morning at Ocean Lakes Campground. I’d just pulled out of my site and parked Bertie Bea in a spot where I could hook up Rosie, my trusty tow car, before heading south to Florida. That’s when it happened—a fellow RVer, maybe distracted or just in a hurry, sideswiped Bertie Bea. Thankfully, the driver stopped, and we exchanged insurance info right there. No drama, just two travelers dealing with an unfortunate mishap.
But here’s the thing: accidents like this don’t just happen on highways. They can occur anywhere—crowded campgrounds, fuel stops, rest areas, you name it. And when they do, it’s easy for stories to get muddled or memories to fade. In the heat of the moment, even the most honest folks can forget a detail or two.
Why a Dashcam Is an RVer’s Best Friend
That’s where having a reliable RV dashcam comes in. I can’t tell you how many stories I’ve heard from fellow travelers about close calls, hit-and-runs, or plain old misunderstandings that turned into headaches because there was no proof of what really happened.
With a dashcam, you have a silent witness riding shotgun. When Bertie Bea was sideswiped, my dashcam caught the whole thing—clear as day. I was able to send the footage straight to the other driver’s insurance company and the claims adjuster. No confusion, no back-and-forth, just the facts. It made the whole process faster, easier, and a lot less stressful.
Protecting Yourself—And Others—On the Road
It’s not just about protecting yourself from dishonest drivers. Sometimes, a dashcam can help prove your innocence if you’re wrongly accused, or even help another traveler by capturing an incident they didn’t see coming. In crowded campgrounds, with kids, pets, and expensive rigs everywhere, having video evidence is worth its weight in gold.
I’ve made it my policy to keep dashcams rolling at all times. Bertie Bea has one, and Rosie actually has two—front and rear—because I want to be covered no matter what happens, where. Whether I’m cruising down I-95 or backing into a tight spot at a rally, I’ve got peace of mind knowing I can always show exactly what happened if things go sideways.
My Recommended Dashcam: Garmin Dash Cam X210
If you’re wondering what dashcam I trust, I highly recommend the Garmin Dash Cam X210 from TechnoRV. It’s easy to install, super reliable, and has crystal-clear video—day or night. Plus, TechnoRV is a family-run business that genuinely understands the needs of RVers. (Full disclosure: this is an affiliate link, so if you decide to pick one up, it helps support the Wandering Gypsy RV Life at no extra cost to you.)
Don’t Hit the Road Without One
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned from years on the highway and in campgrounds, it’s that preparation beats panic every time. A dashcam isn’t just a gadget—it’s a layer of protection for you, your rig, and your peace of mind.
So before you head out on your next adventure, do yourself a favor: make sure you’ve got a dashcam rolling. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. Safe travels, and I’ll see you down the road!
Some journeys hit you harder than a pothole on I-40 at midnight or detours that take you to a bridge that’s too low for your rig. This past September, I lost Mama Mary—a woman who took me under her wing in 2017 when I traveled to Hawaii to honor Lou Conter, the last USS Arizona survivor. Mary didn’t just offer support; she delivered the kind of love that kicked you in the rear when you needed it and hugged you even harder when you really needed it. Even though she lived in California, her care and sass found me no matter where Bertie Bea was parked.
Happier Times at Breakfast with the Crew – Mary and Lou in the Center of Everything
Losing her hit me like a ton of bricks. For six weeks, I just didn’t have the energy to create much more than the occasional Facebook or Instagram post. If you’ve ever lost someone who felt like family, you know that feeling—the world keeps rolling, but your wheels just spin in place for a while.
My Mama Mary Family at Lou Conter’s 100th Birthday
As a full-time RVer and content creator, it’s easy to feel like you have to keep moving, keep posting, keep smiling. But sometimes, you just need to pull off at the next rest stop and let yourself feel the loss—or whatever life’s thrown your way. Mama Mary would have told me to get over myself, dust off, and move forward—because you never know who God will put in your path to help you reach your goals. And if you’re lucky, they’ll be just as ornery and loving as she was.
Conterage Picture on the USS Arizona Memorial in Hawaii
So here’s my question for all my fellow travelers, creators, and friends: Have you ever needed to hit pause or reset for your own mental health? What helped you get rolling again?
We all have things happen in our lives that can temporarily derail us. If you’ve got a story, a memory, or a lesson learned on your own detours, share it in the comments below. Let’s remind each other that it’s okay to take a break—and that the road ahead is always waiting for us.
Mama Mary, I’ll keep rolling, just like you taught me. And if you’re reading this from somewhere up the road, save me a seat at the next campfire.
So, you’ve just bought your RV—whether it’s a shiny diesel-pusher Class A, a nimble Class B van, or a cozy travel trailer—and you’re ready to hit the open road. Before you roll out toward that perfect Instagram sunset or riverside fishing spot, you’ll need a few essential RV accessories to make your adventures safer, smoother, and more comfortable.
Here are my Top Ten Must-Haves—the gear that keeps my 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road, Bertie Bea, road-ready every mile.
1. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Your tires are your foundation—literally. A TPMS helps prevent blowouts, tire failure, and the heart-stopping roadside emergencies that can ruin a trip before it begins.
In Bertie Bea, I currently use the TST-507, but I’ll soon be switching to the new RoadTech TPMS—a rock-solid system available from TechnoRV. It gives real-time pressure and temperature readings for every tire, so you can travel confidently.
2. RV Surge Protector
Not all campground power is created equal. A surge protector shields your electrical system from voltage drops, power surges, and miswired pedestals—saving your RV from costly repairs.
I rely on the Power Watchdog GEN II 50-Amp WiFi Surge Protector with Auto Shutoff, available here.
3. Water Pressure Regulator
Campground water pressure can vary wildly—and too much can blow fittings or crack pipes. A water pressure regulator keeps things steady and safe.
The GoBluTech Stainless Steel Quick-Connect Regulator is my go-to choice, with an easy-to-read gauge and built-in filter screen. Get it here.
GoBluTech Pressure Regulator
4. Water Filtration System
Clean, safe water on the road isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you prefer a simple inline filter or a multi-stage system with a softener, filtered water protects both your health and your RV’s plumbing.
I recommend the GoBluTech AR3 Elite Bundle, which includes triple filtration, a water softener, quick-connect fittings, and a stainless-steel hose. Check it out here.
5. Sewer Hose & Fittings
A good sewer hose is your unsung hero—and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. Choose locking hoses and fittings to prevent “that” kind of disaster (and the viral videos that come with it).
A dash cam records every mile—capturing both scenic drives and the “what-just-happened” moments you’ll want proof of.
In Bertie Bea and Rosie (my tow car), I use the Garmin Dash Cam X210—a reliable, compact unit that even doubles as a travel storyteller. Find it here.
7. Extra Power Cord
Sometimes, campground pedestals are just too far away. Keep an extra 30- or 50-amp power cord handy—especially at rallies or fairgrounds.
Try the Camco Power Grip 50-Amp Cord (30’), available here.
8. Black & Gray Tank Treatments
Keep your holding tanks clean, odor-free, and flowing smoothly.
I follow the Kleen-Tank formula: a mix of Pine-Sol and Calgon bath pearls—simple, effective, and budget-friendly.
9. Water Hoses
Always carry at least two 25’ water hoses—some water spigots can be 40–50 feet away.
I use GoBluTech’s 25’ Universal Stainless Steel Hose with Quick Connects, which are sturdy, flexible, and easy to sanitize. Find it here.
10. Water Leak & Temperature Sensors
These smart little devices can prevent big disasters. Install leak detectors near sinks, toilets, and the water bay—and use temperature sensors for refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas.
In Bertie Bea, I run four temperature sensors inside and outside the fridge/freezers, plus a combo temperature/humidity sensor in the wet bay.
Wrapping It Up
These ten essentials are the foundation for a smooth RV journey—keeping you safe, comfortable, and rolling smoothly wherever Brother Highway leads.
Most of the products I use are available at TechnoRV, where your purchases help support Wandering Gypsy RV Life. You can also find some items on Amazon, at Walmart, or at your favorite RV supply store.
If you’re new to the RV lifestyle and want to dive deeper into how to travel smart, check out my Rolling Smooth book series and podcast at WanderingGypsyRVLife.com. It’s packed with stories, tips, and lessons learned from life on the road in Bertie Bea and Rosie.
As I packed up Bertie Bea and Rosie after another great Penn Coachmen Rally at Pocono Raceway—the legendary “Tricky Triangle”—I couldn’t help but smile. Sure, I’d logged plenty of miles and made some new memories on this trip, but what really sticks with me are the people, the laughter, and the little moments that remind me why I love the RV life.
I rolled into Pocono Raceway on Sunday, September 21, a few days before the rally officially started. The infield was quiet, just a handful of early arrivals getting set up. There’s something peaceful about being at a racetrack before the crowds arrive—just the hum of a generator, a few scattered campfires, and the wide, open sky. It’s the calm before the storm of fun that comes with a rally week.
The next day, on Monday, my soon-to-be neighbors, Olga and Alan, decided to move their coach from their previous site near their racing trailer up to the Penn Coachmen Rally area of the Pocono Raceway Infield Camping Area. They got set up just as I was settling into my own routine. It didn’t take long before a friendly wave turned into a conversation, and a conversation turned into the start of a new friendship.
Olga and Alan are full-time RVers who make their living on the road by selling a television streaming package. We got to talking about how it works, and Alan walked me through the setup. It was simple, practical, and affordable—something every RVer loves to hear. After a lengthy discussion, I decided to purchase the package. But before the transaction was done, I managed to talk them into one more move—this time, down next to me, leaving a site open between us for gatherings. That space quickly became the heart of our little neighborhood, a spot for morning coffee, afternoon shade, and laughter that rolled late into the evening.
It wasn’t long before we had more than just conversation and coffee going. One afternoon, Olga and our friend Gil stopped by my site, and before I knew it, we had an impromptu cooking class going. On the menu? A southern favorite—crawfish étouffée. I pulled out the skillet, the trinity (onion, bell pepper, and celery), and a little Cajun seasoning, and we got to work. There’s something special about cooking with friends outdoors—the smell of roux browning in butter, the laughter as someone stirs too fast, and the inevitable taste test that always ends with, “Just a little more spice.” By the time we finished, everyone had a plate in hand, and the verdict was unanimous: we’d be doing that again. It was one of those unplanned moments that turned into a highlight of the week.
By the time the Penn Coachmen Rally officially got underway, the infield had transformed into a lively little village of RVs, flags, awnings, and friendly faces. There’s nothing quite like rally mornings—coffee brewing, dogs getting their walks, and the faint sound of “good mornings” floating across the campground.
The week was full of good company and learning opportunities. Several educational seminars were held, with one highlight being Gary’s “Gears & Gadgets” seminar, where he showcased must-have tools, maintenance gear, and safety items that every RVer should keep on hand. Gary and his wife, Sue, served as Rally Masters, keeping things running smoothly while ensuring everyone had fun.
One of the best parts of the week was getting to know Emily and Aaron, Gary and Sue’s daughter and son-in-law. They brought such energy and enthusiasm to the event. Emily owns a small business creating shirts and pullovers with solid iron-on logos—including the official apparel for the Penn Coachmen Chapter. She even made a custom pullover for me featuring my Wandering Gypsy RV Life logo, which was a real highlight of the week.
Aaron, being from Pennsylvania, is a lifelong Penn State fan—and that came through loud and clear on Saturday night when the Nittany Lions faced Oregon. That evening, Bertie Bea turned into the unofficial sports bar of the rally. A crowd gathered under my awning around the outdoor TV, with Aaron leading the charge, Emily cheering beside him, and everyone joining in. Whether you were rooting for Penn State or just there for the snacks, it was a night of pure camaraderie—the kind of easy, comfortable connection that only happens when RVers get together.
Of course, no rally week is complete without food, and the first night’s gathering kicked off in style. I made a batch of my famous BBQ meatballs in my secret sauce. I set them out, turned to grab a drink, and by the time I came back, the tray was empty—gone in five minutes flat. That’s a compliment in my book!
But what really stood out about the week were the little moments of kindness and community. My friend Steve took the time to check the torque on the screws in Bertie Bea’s electric automatic transfer switch—just to make sure everything was safe and tight. Nobody asked him to; he just saw a chance to help and jumped in. That’s the kind of spirit that defines RV rallies: people looking out for each other, lending a tool, sharing advice, or offering a hand when it’s needed most.
That sense of community is what the Family RV Association (FRVA) is all about. Through its many chapters, like the Penn Coachmen, FRVA brings together RVers who share a love for adventure, learning, and friendship. Whether it’s attending a rally, joining a chapter gathering, or just staying in touch on the road, the connections you make through FRVA are what keep this lifestyle vibrant and meaningful.
Over the years, I’ve learned that these rallies aren’t just events—they’re reunions. You might meet someone new this week and find yourselves parked next to each other across the country next year. That’s the beauty of it. The road is long, but the community makes it feel like home no matter where you are.
As I drove out through the tunnel at Pocono Raceway—Bertie Bea leading the way and Rosie faithfully following behind—I couldn’t help but reflect on another week of laughter, learning, and lasting friendships.
Because in the RV world, the destinations are many—but the people you meet along the way? They’re what make the journey truly unforgettable.
This one’s special. I had the chance to sit down with Ned LeDoux for a conversation about music, family, highways, cowboy culture, and the stories that shape us. We discussed how Brother Highway was born, Ned’s years on the road, his time drumming for his Dad, Chris LeDoux, and how songs sometimes come to life in minutes when the story is true enough.
Ned also shared about working with Mac McAnally, the songs that carried over from his Dad’s notebooks, and what it’s like to build his own legacy while carrying forward a family tradition of music tied to the road.
This video episode is available only here on Patreon for the Ember tier and above. You’ll see the full conversation—laughter, memories, and some behind-the-scenes stories that didn’t make it into the audio cut.
As Ned says in Brother Highway:
“The road and I have been like brothers From all the miles and time we’ve spent together Yeah, we’ve seen it all We’ve both seen changes in our time Busted dreams and detour signs We keep rolling on.”
That’s what this podcast is about—rolling on, sharing the real stories, and finding the beauty in the detours.
The audio version is now live on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen, but the video is exclusive to you here on Patreon.
So grab your coffee (or your three fingers whiskey 😉), pull up a chair at the fire, and enjoy this conversation with Ned LeDoux.
👉 Watch the Video:
Conversation with Ned Ledoux
Keep wandering, keep chasing horizons, and keep listening to the road.
For me, RV life isn’t just about wheels on the pavement or chasing miles on a map. It’s about the thrill of the open road, chasing horizons that stretch further than the eye can see, and trusting that the unknown detours will lead to the best stories—and even better memories.
There’s a song that’s always stuck with me—Billy Joe Shaver’s Willy the Wandering Gypsy and Me:
“Three fingers whiskey pleasures the drinkers Moving does more than the drinking for me Willy, he tells me that doers and thinkers Say moving’s the closest thing to being free”
That’s it right there. Moving. The freedom to wander. The call of the road.
And then there’s Brother Highway by Ned LeDoux, the song that became the heartbeat of this community:
“The road and I have been like brothers From all the miles and time we’ve spent together Yeah, we’ve seen it all We both seen changes in our time Busted dreams and detour signs We keep rolling on”
That’s what Wandering Gypsy RV Life means to me. The busted dreams and detour signs, the sunsets that sneak up on you, the people you’d never have met if you hadn’t taken the turn off the GPS route. It’s about the miles that tell stories, the roads that become friends, and the firelight that gathers us together to share it all.
This Patreon is more than just support—it’s a campfire circle. It’s a place where the sparks become flames, where the firelight guides us, and where we blaze our own trails. Whether you’re a Wanderer just stepping onto the road or a Founder sitting at the heart of the fire, you’re part of this story.
👉 So come along for the ride. Pull up a chair at the fire. Let’s keep chasing those horizons together, one mile and one story at a time.
Love the stories, tips, and adventures you find here on Wandering Gypsy RV Life? You can help keep the wheels rolling and the campfire burning by joining my community on Patreon.
When you become part of the Campfire Circle, you’ll unlock:
🔥 Early access to blog posts and podcast episodes
🔥 Behind-the-scenes updates and photos from the road
🔥 Exclusive video diaries, live chats, and more
🔥 Autographed copies of my book Rolling Smooth for higher-tier patrons
Your support doesn’t just keep the lights on—it fuels the adventures, the storytelling, and the miles ahead. Whether you join as a Wanderer (free) or step closer to the fire as an Ember, Flame, Bonfire, Trailblazer, or Founding Member, you’ll always have a seat at the circle.
The Red Bay Magic: How Cottage Shops Keep Tiffin Owners Rolling Smooth
byStan Cromlish
After a surprise sideswipe at Ocean Lakes Family Campground left Bertie Bea with a few unwanted “beauty marks,” I headed straight to the RV repair capital of the Tiffin world—Red Bay, Alabama, and Belmont, Mississippi. What I found (as always) was an incredible community of small, specialized cottage shops dedicated to keeping Class A motorhomes rolling smooth.
In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I walk through my three-day repair adventure at Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes and highlight the talented artisans who make Red Bay a pilgrimage site for Tiffin owners.
We cover the whole ecosystem, including:
• Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes – expert paint, bodywork, and factory-quality finishes
• Fowler Detailing – deep cleaning, oxidation removal, and that show-stopping shine
• The Tiffin Service Center – the mothership for major structural and factory repairs
These small-town shops aren’t just businesses—they’re the heartbeat of the Tiffin community. Former Tiffin employees, family-run operations, and master artisans who treat your rig like their own. If you’re a Tiffin owner, this episode is your guide to the Red Bay–Belmont repair and upgrade world.
If you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow RV wanderers. Your support keeps this journey rolling smooth.
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