Earning a living on the road is typically one of the biggest hurdles for non-retired fulltime RVers to overcome. But the Simpsons had that covered. As the family’s primary outside income earner, Jerl was already working remotely as a software programmer and systems administrator for a company that predicts global weather trends. With an eight-year track record on the company team, he knew management would be OK with him doing his job anywhere, as long as he had good Internet access.
The lifestyle would require more from Jennie, but she was game. The idea of spending more time with her sons (age 14, 12 and 11 at the time) in a homeschooling arrangement felt irresistible. She was ready for her role as Taxi Mom to shift to the job of teacher and coach, making her an even more significant part of her children’s education.
Flipping the switch to full-time RVing felt right. For over a year, the Simpsons meticulously researched and planned their escape from suburbia, and even the boys accepted the lifestyle change with enthusiasm. “The thought of being able to visit national parks, see the different states and have adventures with our boys was the biggest push for us to break the suburbia cycle and follow our dream,” recalls Jennie.
When it was time to share their plans with friends and family, Jerl and Jennie prepared for the usual push back from well-intentioned loved ones. “The news of our decision to become nomads and live in an RV was met with mixed reactions. There were some in complete shock and disbelief, while others were our cheerleaders right from the start. I’m not sure if anyone thought we’d do it. I mean, it’s not the normal kind of move a family of five makes. Eventually, though, everyone got on board and supported our decision.”
With a new motorhome and all the RVing logistics in place, the Simpsons kicked off their journey in May 2015. It didn’t take long to prove to themselves and to others that the lifestyle was a good move. “I figured there would be some squabbles and some bumps in the road as we all got settled into our new home, but we all fell into a routine and adjusted fairly quickly and easily,” says Jennie.
During the next four years, the traveling family would experience 49 U.S. states, four Canadian provinces and put a whopping 51,808 miles on their RV, a 38-foot Forest River Georgetown 364. Nomadic living wasn’t always perfect, but they quickly found ways to overcome the hurdles, like joining Escapees. They utilize the club’s mail and domicile services and have built strong friendships with other traveling families.