Massachusetts: A Full-Circle Journey

Massachusetts holds a special place in our hearts. It’s where Scott found sobriety, where we built lasting connections, and where we first felt the pull to settle down. In many ways, this state has brought our journey full circle.

Join us as we explore Boston, Salem, Lexington, Gloucester, and Plymouth. 

Along the way, we reflect on the incredible people who embraced us during a season of transformation. Their kindness and support will forever be woven into our family’s redemption story.

Hanscom Air Force Base FamCamp

This FamCamp was a fantastic find at just $27 per night! We loved watching the planes come and go, yet somehow, it remained peaceful. 

The best part? The location—everything felt close by. We enjoyed our stay so much that we came back three years later!

Minuteman Bikeway

During our stay, we made it a routine to walk five miles on the Minuteman Bikeway  daily, taking it directly from our campground. 

Winding through Lexington and Arlington, this 10 mile bikeway offers a scenic and historic route. It follows the path of Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride in 1775, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of the American Revolution.

This trail holds countless memories for us...

• When Scott got sober, it became a space for deep conversations, reflections, and healing. 

• During our second visit, it was here that we had one of the most pivotal discussions of our journey: After three years on the road, were we finally ready to settle down?

Minute Man National Historical Park

Just a short drive from the FamCamp, Minute Man National Historical Park is a must-visit. The visitor center was excellent, with engaging exhibits and an insightful museum. 

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Orchard House, where Little Women was written and inspired. Walking through the home of Louisa May Alcott was like stepping into literary history.

Lexington: A Place of New Beginnings

Lexington will always be special to us. It’s where Scott attended his very first AA meeting and where we met our dear friend Arlene.

While Scott was at his meeting, we explored the downtown farmers’ market. Afterward, an energetic Italian woman, Arlene, came outside, adamant about meeting me and the kids. She offered words of encouragement and told me she saw sincerity in Scott. 

Her kindness came at a time when I was questioning everything, and I will never forget it. 

Three years later, we reunited with her over dinner, her big personality as vibrant as ever.

Salem: A Step Back in Time

No trip to Massachusetts is complete without visiting Salem! The Salem Witch Trials Museum was interactive and engaging, providing a deeper look into one of the most infamous events in early American history.

While much of the town felt a bit touristy, we loved walking along the harbor and soaking in the coastal charm.

Boston: History Comes Alive

Boston is a city rich in history, but be warned—parking is no joke! Either pack your patience or opt for the train or ferry.

We spent the day walking the Freedom Trail, marveling at the incredible architecture and visiting historic sites like the USS Constitution...

Paul Revere’s House...

Old North Church, and Bunker Hill Monument. 

The Granary Burying Ground, where signers of the Declaration of Independence rest, was humbling to visit.

For food, we stopped at Union Oyster House, one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in the U.S., dating back to 1826. 

The Marketplace also had fantastic eats—Regina Pizza and cannolis were a must! By the end of the day, we were wiped out, but Boston is a must-do!

Gloucester: A Tribute to the Sea

During our second time in Massachusetts, we made sure to visit Gloucester, one of the oldest seaports in the country.

We started at the visitor center before taking a scenic walk along the water. One of the most powerful moments was standing before the Man at the Wheel statue, a tribute to the countless fishermen lost at sea. 

We capped off our visit with a meal at Seaport Grille, where the fish tacos were a definite win!

A Day in Plymouth

We spent the day exploring Plymouth! We walked along the rocky harbor, visited Pilgrim Memorial State Park to see Plymouth Rock...

 And the Mayflower replica...

Then ended with delicious ice cream from Kilwins.

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts will always be a part of our family’s story. 

Scott has built lifelong friendships through AA in Bedford and Lexington, staying in touch with those who supported him in his journey.

From the history-rich streets of Boston to the serene coastline of Gloucester, this state has a bit of everything. 

I have to admit—the honking, thick accents ("cah-fee" anyone?), and maze-like roads took some getting used to, but now, I wouldn’t expect anything less when we visit!

Faith & Community: A Reflection

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near."

• The Book of Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians facing tough times, tempted to go back to their old ways. The author encourages them to stay strong in their faith and hold on to Christ.

Looking back, this verse perfectly describes our time in Massachusetts. Here’s how we saw it play out in our lives:

• Marriage – When I found out about Scott’s hidden addiction, I felt so betrayed. But God filled me with a peace and forgiveness beyond understanding. 

• I saw Scott surrender to Jesus and transform before my eyes. Although my flesh wanted to leave in anger, God’s grace covered our marriage. 

• Three years later, I often find Scott encouraging me in my faith, which overflows to our kids.

• AA – If you’ve never been to an AA meeting, you might not fully understand it. Scott often says, “God brought me to AA, and AA brought me back to God.” 

• When I visited, I found it filled with broken, vulnerable, joyful, and service-minded people. "More Church Than Church" by Walker Hayes  hits the nail on the head. 

• AA has given Scott meaningful connections all over the country. When we prepared for our mission trip to Malawi, these people showed up in ways that moved him to tears.

• Bible Studies- Scott is part of two online Bible studies each week, and even though we’re now settled, he’s continued meeting with these groups. 

• We’re so grateful to live in a time when we can stay connected with people across the country, no matter where we are. 

• The men in these studies have been such a blessing—not only encouraging Scott in his spiritual growth, which has deeply impacted our family, but also supporting us and our mission trip in ways that have truly humbled us.

• Campers – People often wonder how we find community while full-time RVing. The truth is, we almost always have instant community. 

• We forge deep connections quickly, and more often than not, our conversations turn to Jesus.

• Church – In Massachusetts, we visited the base chapel, a small but welcoming church where we got to know the chaplain and others. The size allowed for real relationships, and we loved it.

Stanley J. Grenz once wrote: “The life of the Trinity is characterized not by self-centered individualism but by fellowship. And because we are created in the image of the triune God, we find our fulfillment not in isolation but in community.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the people You’ve placed in our lives—those who have encouraged, challenged, and walked with us through seasons of growth. You designed us for community, just as You exist in perfect unity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Help us to seek out connections that reflect Your love and to be a source of encouragement to others. May we never take for granted the power of fellowship and the beauty of redemption.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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