Stay Tune for a Word from our Sponcers

 First, I am taking a few moments away from Mocha Teal updates to talk about our journey.

We arrived in Shelbyville, Illinois, settling in at Bo Wood Campground, a place we always enjoy when we are near Susan’s brother, Harold. There is something comforting about returning to familiar places along the road, especially when family is nearby.

Bo Wood offers large campsites with options for everyone—from full hookups to dry camping—making it an easy stop whether you are staying for convenience or simply looking to slow down for a bit. For us, it has become one of those places that feels familiar, welcoming, and worth returning to whenever our travels bring us this way.

It also gives us time to catch up with Harold, share stories, and enjoy those simple moments that remind us why the journey is not only about the miles traveled, but also about the people waiting along the way. 

Harold just happens to be 78 years young, though he would probably tell you age is only a number—especially if there is something that needs fixing or a story that needs telling. He proudly served a tour in Vietnam, a chapter of life that helped shape the quiet strength and steady outlook he carries today.

After returning home, Harold spent many years working at a truss factory, putting in honest, hard work until retirement finally called his name. Like many of that generation, he is not one to complain, preferring instead to simply roll up his sleeves and get things done.

For us, being here in Shelbyville is more than just a campground stop—it is time spent with family, swapping stories, catching up, and appreciating the moments that too often pass too quickly when life gets moving down the highway.

We spent two wonderful days here, continuing to get to know our Mocha Teal—or as she is quickly becoming known, the infamous Land Shark. Those of you who have ever had a chocolate Labrador puppy already know exactly what we are talking about. Sharp little teeth, endless energy, and a curiosity level somewhere between “What’s this?” and “Should I chew it?”

To say we are learning would be an understatement. More accurately, we are learning how to manage the Land Shark while gently convincing her that fingers, shoes, chair legs, and anything within reach are not approved menu items.

That said, she keeps us on our toes and laughing more than not. Every day brings something new as we slowly figure each other out. Between the puppy antics, moments of sweetness, and Tilly still trying to decide if this tiny tornado is truly staying, life has certainly become more interesting around DaGirls RV.

Friday, we continued our journey north to St. Charles, Illinois. Our destination was the Kane County Fairgrounds, where we planned to set up camp and continue our family visits.

As many of you know, one of the greatest blessings of this RV lifestyle is that it allows us to reconnect with family along the way—something that would be much harder if we were simply rushing from one destination to the next.

This stop meant time with Dana and Tom, along with their four young adult children (yes, still “the kids” no matter how old they get). Family gatherings have a way of reminding us just how quickly time passes. One moment they are running around as children, and before you know it, they are grown, finding their own paths, yet still gathering together when family comes rolling into town.

Of course, arriving with Mocha Teal, the Land Shark, added a little extra entertainment to the mix, as she continues charming some while keeping the rest of us wondering what she might chew on next.

Susan, Tilly, Mocha Teal, me and Dakota' sprit until Mocha takes over.