In 2021, Josh and Anna Moores comfortable tech life in Texas faced a speed bump with job losses during the pandemic. Left with more things than they cared for, they ditched the big house and fancy cars for an RV.
“We were making great money but had nothing left by the end of each month,” said Anna, shaking her head.
With their 12-yearold son, Ryker, in tow, they zigzagged through Missouri, Georgia, North Carolina, and Illinois. It was at an RV campground in Pensacola that Josh realized they had made the correct decision.
“No one was glued to their phones or wrestling with emails; instead, everyone was all smiles. That’s when I knew we made the right decision,” Josh said. “I saw my family basking in the freedom from the daily grind—no ropes, no stress, just authentic living.”
At first, Josh and Anna admit they were worried they had made a mistake by giving up their lifestyle for an RV.
“Once we peeled out of Texas, I had second thoughts. I mean, who sells their house to live in a glorified tin can?” he said.
“And I worried our nomadic life would be more like a chaotic circus,” Anna said.
In May 2023, the family found themselves headed west from Missouri when they landed in Oklahoma, near Vian, visiting Annas uncle. The Moores say that they were shocked that Oklahoma was so beautiful.
“I was shocked because it doesn’t have just flat plains; it’s got mountains, too,” Anna remarks, still surprised.
“Texas was cool, but here I can hike and hunt with Dad and my uncle,” Ryker chimed in.
Still working remotely, the Moores parked their RV near Tenkiller and fell for the place.
“There was just something about being here,” Anna said. “It is peaceful and welcoming.”
In June, they bought a half-acre lot near Cato Creek Landing, deciding to build their dream life—one with less stuff and more time together.
“No more loans for us,” Josh declared. “Family’s more important.”
Their new home is modest, just 800 square feet, but the Moores are proud that it is theirs.
“There’s something about building your own place that makes it special,” said Josh.
Despite setbacks, the Moores remain upbeat, with their new home about six months away from completion.
“We messed up a lot, spent double on stuff,” Anna laughs about their DIY learning curve.
Yet, with more family time, free from the old rush, they’re savoring the sitcom of their own making.
“Before, we were too busy to relax,” Anna said, “now, we’re starring in our own reality show.”
For those tempted by a similar path, Josh throws in his two cents.
“Start small, focus on what matters, take it one step at a time. You’ll be surprised how liberating it feels. And remember, laughter is the best tool in any DIY kit!” he said.
Looking ahead, the family sees their homemost stead not just as a home but a hub for gatherings and connections.
“We want people to come together in this beautiful place we now call home,” Josh envisions, a hint of excitement in his voice.
When not hammering away at their dream home, the family explores Tenkiller’s nooks, discovering small-town gems and enjoying a simpler life.
“Discover your freedom,” they advise, living their life as a testament to the power of choosing authenticity over the daily grind.
