Dear Windy, We are leaving you…Seriously
Windy, we know we have been a little off and on again and we are really sorry about that. We told you back in 2011 that we needed to downsize to an RV smaller than 30 feet, then we begged you to take us back. We know we were a little indecisive but this time we are serious and we promise no take backs. We are approaching 2014 and we have some major plans that unfortunately don’t include you. I know that may seem a little ungrateful but please don’t take it personally, the time has come for us to move in another direction. We all knew this relationship was temporary from the beginning and it’s been a really great ride with a lot of great memories.
We will always remember you fondly and hope you feel the same way. We wish we could tell you all about our big plans for 2014 but we can’t divulge just yet. For now all we can tell you is that we are moving out December 10th and going to work hard to find you new worthy travel companions. So, until then lets enjoy these last three weeks together and end this relationship on a good note. After all, we would love to remain friends.
Thanks for everything (with tears swelling…),
Nikki, Jason, Singa and Miss Cleo
If you know of anyone that would be interested in a sleek lady like Windy, have them send us requests by email. You can see the full specs here: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/monaco-for-sale
Our first attempted breakup from August 2011:
It’s been a good run and we have had a lot of great times together, but it’s time for us to move on. Please don’t beat yourself up, it’s us not you. We have all changed so much over the last year and a half. You have so much to offer and we know you will find someone amazing to replace us. You will find someone who wants to show you the rest of the world and take you back to your favorite places.
We don’t know what is next for us. Maybe a tiny trailer, a camper van or a smaller class A, we don’t know what it will be but we hope you will stick around to find out. We just know we have some changes to make in our lives and how we travel. As a challenge to ourselves we want to downsize even further and will continue to travel, cross new borders and help even more people achieve their travel goals. To do this we have to make some changes.
We will help you find someone who will love your upgrades, additions and boondocking capabilities, this we promise.
Sincerely,
Jason, Nikki, Singa and Miss Cleo
Tony
Hey there can you comment on the ride of the Vesta? Im thinking about getting one.
Colin Hibberd
I have question to go with your inverter video. How many batteries and solar panels did you have to support the 3000W inverter?
Thank You
Kelina
Hi jason and nikki, I have to say I had watched all your videos in one day, ive been in bed rest mode for the last 7 years and in my late 40s, due to 8 back surgeries, just had my tail bone removed 6 weeks ago.my husband and I have always dreamed of traveling together once our 2 kids where adults which they are now.i cant wait to start traveling once im healed.your life together is inspiring, good luck in your new venture, travel safe.all the best from adelaide Australia. Regards kelina
Niels
Just one remark, when you are talking about whatever you talk about, please no music. I just watched your ‘inverter’ video and i was annoyed by the music. Maybe it is me, but in videos the music is more e negative thing than a positive one.
Jason Wynn
This is an old video, we have learned and grown over the years.
Niels
Thank for your videos. I love to watch them because i never will get the chance of buying one of these. Living in europe is the biggest reason for that. Thanks from Holland.
Christy
We just turned 40 & call it midlife crisis or whatever but we’re thinking of selling it all & going on the road. We’re looking at the 2012 Monaco Vesta 35 which has the w/d. Was Windy a big mistake? Was she reliable & ok to drive? Appreciate any advice you could share!
Thanks for showing us what’s possible!
Jason Wynn
Still our favorite RV based on style, the drive and quality. As with any RV they all have issues so there’s no guarantee. I can say the livability of the floor-plan in our Excursion and Bounder are far better than the Vesta.
Carol
Did you ever think of having a lottery for your RV after all there are so many readers who would buy the tickets & you could do like the others & set it up to where if there are not enough sold it is off & the money returned to those who did buy. I have seen charity ones for houses & RV’s done like this though not done one myself. I would have bought a ticket for your RV though as it was outfitted so nice. I just wish I had found your site earlier as today was my first day on it & I never do this “Comment thing” . Your site is great!
Nikki Wynn
Well, thanks for taking the time to comment Carol! The lottery idea is interesting.
Ken
What did you end up getting, where the smaller class a thors worth looking at.. thanks …
Jason Wynn
Ken,
We ended up with Roy about a year ago: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/roy-the-rv
We are in the middle of a new series called the “shopper series” if you’re interested in what we think about new RVs. Here’s the first in the series: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/small-class-a-gas-rv
Susan Bates
You have inspired me and my husband to pack our RV and go on the road. We own our own home and 7 acres in Indiana. But still making payments in our 40ft 2003 Sun Voyager. We are 52 and 54. I gave health issues with arthritis. I have had 2 operations on 1 foot. But I get scared about making enough money to survive and make RV payments. Cause one of our son’s wants the home and land. I wish we could pack the RV and 2 dogs and leave tomorrow.
Nikki Wynn
you can do it! It doesn’t cost anymore to live on the road than it does at home. If anything its usually a little less. You can still work a little from the road! Check out our Make Money and Travel series for ideas: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/make-money-travel
Sharon Wegner
Jason and Nikki – coming to this farewell party a bit late. We are in our early 60’s – those “would be” retired types you talk about at the RV parks.
Big houses, big furniture and several cars have been our lifestyle and now we are giving serious thought to selling our “stuff” and buying a class A.
We both enjoy traveling, but that’s not our reason for hitting the road. For us, it’s a matter of necessity. We are both native Californians and after moving to and from the this great state, we no longer can afford to stay here. Our rent is RIDICULOUS!!!! Not to mention, my husband has been out of work since October of 2013. After 30+ years in the semiconductor industry, a 62 y/o isn’t exactly a hot commodity in the job market.
That being said, we have nearly drained our 401K to a point where life is darn right scary financially.
So, what else can we do but buy a motor home, sell the cars, furniture, baby grand piano and take our 4 cats on the road with us?
This decision would be called an adventure if we were your age. At our age, it’s a matter of survival. I have faith that God will provide, but I have to be honest – I’m scared!!
I’m digesting your blog, page by page. If you have any suggestions for beginning the process of detaching and releasing material stuff, I’d love to hear it.
Next Google search is to find a “Windy”.
thanks for doing what you do and giving hope to 2 old, gray haired gonna-be travelers.
Jason Wynn
Sharon,
Thank you so much for sharing your story, even though you call it necessity I think it’s fair to still call it an adventure too 🙂
If I was in your situation I would look into a nice diesel Motorhome that’s 3-5 years old. I’d join a membership program like Thousand Trails and/or Escapees, and I’d join the Workamper News group and find something that sounds interesting to keep you busy, pay your camping fees, and put some money in the bank.
Good luck, you know where to find us if you have any questions.
Jim & Diane
Gone-a miss the old Windy. I can see where your coming from wanting a smaller coach & smaller footprint. I remember back when you were deciding between the 3 coaches and choose Windy, I thought how are you going to make it work “full-timing” in that 32′ coach. You have…I’m now saying the same thing on your 3 coaches you presented. Hum…I kind of like the Thor Siesta 24SR not in the video. How about the Itasca Reyo line, Cambria. Fresh water tank size is also very important. We just have a 25′ tt (hybrid) which lends itself to all the state and federal parks we stay at 95% of the time. Were not full-times, but do get in 50-60 nights a year
Jason Wynn
Hey Jim and Diane,
We are going to miss Windy for sure, she’s been a great motorhome for our style of travel. For 2014 we’re not planning on downsizing though, you were reading our original post when we thought we were selling Windy late 2012. I know it’s confusing, we just go where the wind takes us, and sometimes that means changing our plans on a whim!
Kathy Parker
We are not fulltimers, but would like to spend half the year on the road… I am interested in anything that is relatively small ( 24-26 ft ) and good on fuel ( as good as can be expected. ) May I ask what you drive/ live in? I have been on Rvtrader.com, but of course no one lists mpg… and I really need some honest feedback. I’ve seen some nice rigs, but being retired means not wanting to be stuck somewhere waiting for the first of the month. lol Thanks for any info you care to provide… we’ve been doing this about 30 years. we raised our children on the road. But technology changes so rapidly, and I’d like to make the right purchase. Thanks again for your thoughts…
Lou
Must be a sail boat
Rick
Looking forward to reading a detailed report from you on RV industry changes from the upcoming Kentucky show, as you two are uniquely capable to provide a realistic critique from your years of full-timing. Have fun there!
bruce
I believe it is written that there are 50 Ways to Leave Your RV.
The most effective method is to leave it unlocked with the keys in the ignition in either New Orleans, Las Vegas, Miami or Jersey.
Before you’ve even turned around for a last lingering look – she’s heading down that long lonesome road, piloted by a pirate.
Jason Wynn
HAHA…are you talking about insurance fraud?!? 🙂 Too funny!
Lisa Wood
I sure hope that doesn’t mean the end of travels? Cause I love following your journey from Down Under….does that mean you will continue to seek adventures but this time on the water instead of the road? I love Wendy Style – hope she goes to a good home xxx
Jason Wynn
No way it’s not the end of travels….No WAY!
Dee
Oh I wish I could afford something like that! One day =)
Jason Wynn
Work hard and save up…that’s how we did it.
Sandra
Oh, I am so sad. I just got to know you guys and your website. Like Stacey, I am about to go on a journey around the US and was looking forward to following you on my journey. Good Luck on your new adventure. Thank you for a fantastic website to two fantastic and inspirational people.
Jason Wynn
Sandra we’re not leaving, we’re just changing a bit. Change is good 🙂
Stacey Harrington
So excited for you guys and whatever your next adventure may be. I hope you leave your blog up so I can continue to follow you. I have been learning as much as I can from you since my hubby and I have finally decided to leave everything this coming summer to RV full time. It’s scary since we are newbies and the thought of giving up our jobs terrifies me. Reading your blog’s, watching your video’s, and following your adventures is what has given me the courage to say “Ok, lets do this!” thanks for being such an inspiration 🙂
JB
I ENJOY FOLLOWING YOUR TRAVELS ACROSS USA.
PLANNING TO PURCHASE CAMPER VAN FROM SPORTSMOBILE. HAVE NOT DECIDED ON DODGE PROMASTER OR FORD TRANSIT. I CAN DESIGN IT MYSELF.
PLANNING TO VISIT ALASKA BYWAY THE ALASKAN MARINE FERRY.
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR TRAVEL ENDEAVORS.
Nikki Wynn
We love those Sportsmobiles and that is definitely the perfect Alaska home on wheels! You’re gonna have an awesome adventure!
Cherie @Technomadia
Wishing you both the very best in whatever your next adventure is (and excited to hear about it!). Windy will find an excellent new travel partner for sure..
DeanP & MarvelKay
OK you guys…. so, what’s the asking price for Windy?? My bride Kay and I are almost ready and we might be just the ticket for her. We’ve been following you guys for over a year now and I’ve been eying that beautiful “hot ticket” you ride in and would love to be her next “who’s your daddy?”… let’s make a deal!!
Nikki Wynn
Dean, you definitely know how to sweet talk a girl…she is 120,000 and you can read all the specs here: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/monaco-for-sale
RVgeeks
Does this mean that Jason will soon be starring in the sequel “How Not to UN-install a Composting Toilet”? 😉
Nikki Wynn
Yep, the sequel it will be…
Chibi Moku
Best decision ever!!!! Downsizing let’s you fit into all those tiny little spaces that everyone else can’t fit into. And knowing that your impact to the earth is as small as possible…wonderful.
Jason Wynn
Not sure we’re downsizing…that was our original plan in 2011 when we listed Windy for sale the first time….we are not 100% solid with our plan, but we’ll update everyone with it’s a “sure deal”.
John
If you are looking into sailing your next adventure, follow some old classmates of mine who just started their adventure on a 35ft sailboat. They are currently on their way down the East Coast on their way to the sunny Caribbean.
http://sv-quartet.blogspot.com
Nikki Wynn
Thanks, we love finding new sailing blogs to follow!
Jenna
Boo HOO…you were so much fun to follow…
Will you be starting another adventure…maybe by sea…
Will we be able to follow…
You sure there is not a small hint…
You guys were certainly an inspiration for anyone taking to the open roads…
Greg
Will your new home have a propeller? Hmmm… I’m looking forward to following your next adventures.
Thom Colby
Wherever your next venture, I’ll be following along. I guess I had this dream that my retirement next year would have coincided with your previously posted plan……
My very best wishes for all of you – just don’t keep us hangin’ too long before you let us know what’s up!
Nikki Wynn
Don’t worry, the big reveal is coming next week! So excited to tell all of you!
Stella MacDonald
Maybe we should have waited on the purchase of our new rig! Hahahah Windy is pretty special and we are glad to have hosted all of you in our neighbourhood. Hoping our paths will cross again some day soon. Thanks for all the info , travelogues and visits. Good luck with your next step.
Stella and Jack.
Nikki Wynn
Nonsense, you’re new home is awesome! Can’t wait to see you out and about!
Bill in Wimberley, TX
Glad to hear that you guys survived Moab, and we are all very anxious to follow you on your new trails ! I enjoyed “discovering” you guys on the 2011 HGTV “House Hunters” episode that effectively launched your “career”.
Linda D
Hi, just discovered your sight yesterday and love all your travels and information. Hope you keep on travelig and doing the same. We are about to hit the road Jan next year. I’m a little scared but the hubby is ready and I hope it works out. It has been a hard decision to follow through on for me but as I listen to others like you all, it incourages me that we can do it!!
gonewiththewynns
Linda, you soooo can do it and you are gonna love it!
Robert
Thanks for the great info, wife & I are a year out from the FullTime Rving. I have been looking at 5th wheel trailers, I like the idea of propane fuel for my truck. As I write this gas is $3.65@gal…propane is $2.65—2.95 average locally. We are looking to spend most of our time in and around the Miami Florida area, would love to hear from others in the area with their full time RV life stories and tips. We are early 60’s couple looking to relocate, slow down and enjoy life and get out of the 60-70 hour work week. Again Thanks for this website and all the real life info you have provided if your in the Gulfcoast area Hollar..
gonewiththewynns
Robert, you should look into a thousand trails membership. They have a ton of properties in Florida and it would really help make the lifestyle more affordable.
Alan
As for gas mileage I am getting around 10 MPG with the ACE towing a small trailer with a golf cart loaded. It does seem to bog down a little going up hill but it does get there. Granted the hills in Virginia are nothing compared to else where in the Country. The Triton V10 has more than enough power to move the ACE, but you pay for it in MPG.
Alan
We met this summer and compared notes on your Vesta and our new A.C.E. I had told you we just traded our 2012 Four Winds Siesta Sprinter for the 2012 A.C.E. The Siesta was too small for my wife and other family members who would show up from time to time. I would look into a Sprinter based Class B+/C. The mileage was between 15 – 22 mpg depending on towing. Your Smart would look great following behind a Sprinter. Good luck and can’t wait to see what you all get next.
gonewiththewynns
Alan, we would love to know what your fuel economy has been on the ACE. We are looking at the sprinter based coaches and the new 27ft ACE.
Lisa Wood
Oh how exciting! New adventures and a new way of travelling.
Funny but I have the same feelings..would love to downsize our motorhome and back-pack. Now to tell hubby and the kids would be a different matter altogher!
All the best with finding a new owner for Windy. All the best with your new exciting adventures 🙂
gonewiththewynns
Lisa, If you decide to talk the family into backpacking, you need to invest in a video camera first becuase that would be worth watching!
Kate
Dear Wynns,
I was shocked to hear your costs. In our 2007 Winnebago View, we get between 16 and 19 mpg. Traveling with a black lab and german shepherd, we spend less than $1900.00 per month, and eat and drink awfully well.
gonewiththewynns
Kate, any tips of saving money? This next report will be much lower.
mary van
Can’t wait to the details! Do you guys have a plan in the works you keeping secret?
tiffany of camp1899
wow! new beginnings are always fun!! can’t wait to see what’s next! xo, t.
Dave
Hi, I emailed you separately as we live Full Time in an RV but we also spend two to three months a year in Europe, and specifically Portugal which we actually prefer to Spain for more reasons than can be mentioned here. Our first big year in Europe was on our Two-wheeled RV, a Twin 650cc Yahama in 1981 to 1982…it was then that we discovered Portugal and we were HOOKED.
Call us if you like..we can talk about it on the phone..we have unlimited minutes on our Cell on weekends…
Bill Ault
We ran in to you two at the Pomona RV show last year and I have really enjoyed following your adventures in Windy. I wish you both the best and have fun with your new adventures.
Marsha
We were sad to hear you will be selling Windy. Am sure she is like a member of the family It is a bit ironic that we saw our first Vesta yesterday while traveling through Oregon. Purchased our 2012 Trip in April so have really enjoyed your posts and tips. Have fun in Spain where you can take leisurely showers and sleep in a real bed at the hotel! Looking forward to what is next.
Sandi Elboeck
Whatever you do or however you travel you will always have an adventure as it is your love of the world that keeps you moving on. So glad we met you and the high wire act Simva when we were in Grapevine, Texas. Yeah we still are travelling in the Zephyr and are heading to NY and NE soon so the oil companies will get bookoo bucks from us. Someday we will be downsizing but Lambert loves the “Beast” so for now have fun and keep everyone posted!
gonewiththewynns
Sandi, that Zephyr is a beast but it’s awesome! Sounds like you are going for the fall colors, you will love it! Safe travels!
Ken Meshigaud
Thanks for the memories, is that a song somewhere, yeah, I think it is. Anywho, it was great following your adventures on the road, made me envious like a lot of other followers, one day, one day I will join the travelers of the world and plunge in myself, hopefully sooner than later. Looking forward to seeing your next adventures, have as much fun as you’ve had and keep posting!! Safe travels my new found friends!!!
Linda Stansbury
I saw the show when you bought Windy so I know how much thought you put into it and how special she is. I’d certainly give her the love and care she deserves but I’m sure her price will be out of my league. If I were in your position, my next choice would be a “house to go”, like the Weebee, Lusby or Fencl, from the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company. I’ll continue to be a faithful follower and excited to read what changes you make and what will be taking you further on down the road.
Cherie @Technomadia
Isn’t it awesome that choices aren’t permanent and you can switch it up? 🙂 In our 6 years on the road, we’ve currently on our third RV. We went a bit opposite in direction tho, starting with an ultra tiny 16′ teardrop, then a 17′ fiberglass egg and now the 35′ bus.
Looking forward to see what contenders are on your list.
Kathy
Well, all good things must end…or change. Thats good news! Sorry you are losing Wendy but cant wait to see what you come up with next. As long as you keep blogging and keeping us update, dont care what you drive, lol. Have a great time in Spain, hope we get updates and pics from there too, bullfight anyone? (No…….!) Have fun and look forward to the next update!! You;re still inspiring.
Peg
We longed for a Serenity Leisure Travel van until we spotted the Vesta. We are happy for the bigger space. We’ll keep the Vesta spirit alive for you. I was excited for your storage tips so if you are downsizing I’ll be following even closer. Enjoy your new rig. I’m sure it will be special~ just like you both!
Ingrid
So surprised to here of the change but understand. When we purchased our 5th wheel we wanted to make sure we didn’t go too big – 31′ and now we find ourselves thinking that may still be too big for all the out of the way places we want to go. Looking forward to seeing your next rig. Oh, and we have room for ya on the driveway in southern CO…. 🙂
The Good Luck Duck
Oooh, another big rig set up for boondocking! The Duck might like to meet this Windy gal. Oh wait, the Duck says the age difference might be a problem.
Good luck with your downsize! My dream is a sleek, high-clearance, low-profile 4WD rig.
Roxanne
Jan
Whew – for a minute there I thought you had different big news like another cat or something. Can’t wait to learn what’s next for the Wynn’s!
Randall
Thank You!, for the hours of entertainment, information, but mostly thank you for planting the idea that it can be done. My wife and I found you thru the show you did on the travel channel. And you have planted the seed. We will be out there traveling We can not wait to see where your travels take you.
Lin
Well, I’m a little bit sad about Windy. I guess I was kinda living in a bubble as far as expenses of life on the road. And you don’t seem to be living extravagantly. But I know you will be on to better things. As far as frequency of emails goes, I always look forward to your updates!!!
gonewiththewynns
Thanks Lin. We think everyone will enjoy going through the process of getting a new coach and trying to live on a tighter budget. It should be interesting.
Brian
So glad we were able to meet her at Alpine Lake on one of her last voyages! Best of luck to Ms. Windy in the future… On to the next page…
gonewiththewynns
Brian, we are glad you were able to meet her too! She loves to meet her fans!
Cassie
Good on you both! Most serious RVers go thru a variety of units. So, welcome to the club. You’ll get on with your next, and be very happy with it. With your love of travel, and the way you do it, you are finding that you don’t need lots of everything to be happy. So, say good-bye to Windy, she’ll be just fine, and keep your upbeat and very informative travel sharing going out to all of us followers. We, too, are “off the beaten path” travelers…….so we absolutely love following you! Good luck, keep those wheels on the road
gonewiththewynns
Cassie, thanks for the encouraging words! We are super excited about this next chapter!
Spencer
Have you worked with anyone of the tax implications of your life on the road? Its seems you are using your experiences (expenses) to make money so much of this could be written off. I know the problem is generating enough revenue to have something to write off against.
gonewiththewynns
Spencer, we have a CPA and he has helped us a lot over the past 2 years but if you have some ideas we are always open to ideas! Thanks for looking out for us!
Pam
Thank you so much for all your blogs. I have enjoyed them immensely. Windy is beautiful. I am excited to learn of your new plans and adventures. Safe travels…..
Phil, Steve and Dakota
Hi Guys,
I thought something was up when I saw the question marks all over Windy’s picture. How sad – she’s such a nice rig. But what about your boating idea? There’s no mention of that in your post.
Erika
I love that you’re downsizing, but I’ll surely miss Windy. Good luck on finding the next perfect camper/etc!
Bruce
Sometimes a Windy has to close so another door can open. And – if you have a specific trip for which you need big RV – just rent one! Meanwhile, if a downsize keeps you on America’s byways and highways – it will be worth it. I’m sure your next stage will be just as interesting. Should you get to the point where you ditch all motor transport and are hitchhiking for weeks on end, it might be time to do what my Dad always advised – “Get a haircut and get a job.” (I knew he was just kidding. And of course, so am I.)
Rolland
OMG! :**/
Jacob
No way! I can’t believe you are saying good bye to that pretty lady. Looking forward to meet the new girl in town.
Janet finn
Thanks! I am not going anywhere. Sorry to imply! But I really like windy 🙂
Gina Meyer
Good luck with your new wheels. All lessons are learned by living them so it’s great that you have experienced Windy and now you can try something different.
kitty kat
Wow! I am so excited to attend what adventures are to come. (on the internet of course!)
Jason Wynn
Janet,
We began RVing in 2006 when we purchased our 1985 VW Vanagon Camper Van. When we sold that we purchased a 2009 Damon Avanti. In 2011 we upgraded to our Windy. So needless to say we’ve been in the ‘RV thing’ for quite a while. Stay tuned, we gotta sell Windy before we purchase our next RV….and don’t worry we’ll document the whole thing so we can take our followers along for the ride of purchasing and outfitting a new RV.
Suzeebee33
We rented several campers and even a Class A Motor home before we purchased, you only really know what works after taking them on trips. Lucky for us, we found the perfect set up. We purchased a camper and when we are not using it, it gets rented out to other people looking for just the right fit.. I look forward to seeing what you get next. I was thinking you would go bigger not smaller. I like it. Can’t wait for Chapter 2 and if it will be a boy or a girl….Camper that is.
Trudi
Sometimes we have to move on! Looking forward to seeing where your travels take you next.
gonewiththewynns
Thanks Trudi!
Janet finn
boo! Only really followed u since I am wanting to do the RV thing. Seems alot of fulltime RV bloggers burn out after a while in RV’s and move on.
gonewiththewynns
Janet, we are still going to be on the road, just new digs! Don’t go anywhere, we are not.
Candace
That’s very bittersweet. Looking forward to your future adventures…with kitties, I hope.
gonewiththewynns
Candace, we wouldn’t give our kitties up for anything and they are excited about a new home on wheels!