Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Top 10 Must-Visit Small Towns

Bucket List Destinations for Every Jeeper

Buckle up, Jeep enthusiasts it's time to hit the open road! Across the United States, countless small towns offer rich history, incredible scenery, friendly locals, and access to unforgettable Jeep adventures.

Over the years, I’ve explored dozens of these hidden gems on my Jeep travels. Whether you're seeking off-road thrills, mountain beauty, or unique roadside Americana, these towns deserve a spot on your Jeep Life bucket list.

So grab your keys, roll those windows down, and let’s explore 10 small towns every Jeeper should visit.


1. Saguache, Colorado (San Luis Valley)

Home of the Original Jeep Rescue League

This mountain town is a must-see for anyone who loves Jeep history. Saguache is home to the Jeep Rescue League, where you’ll find restored vintage Jeeps, antique military vehicles, and historical exhibits.

Nearby highlights:

For more trail adventure:

  • Bishop’s Rock Trail

  • Elwood Pass Trail

  • Chinaman’s Gulch & Carnage Canyon (hardcore rock crawling near Buena Vista)

The San Luis Valley is truly a 360° Jeep playground.
Read more: Saving Jeeps one Jeep at a Time


The parking lot full of Jeeps at the Jeep Rescue League in Saquache, Colorado
photo courtesy The Jeep Rescue League

2. Moab, Utah

The Off-Road Capital of the World

Moab is legendary and for good reason. But you don’t need to be a hardcore wheeler to appreciate its beauty.

Must-see destinations:

  • Arches National Park

  • Canyonlands National Park

  • The Colorado River

  • Utah Scenic Byway 128

  • Deadhorse Point State Park

  • Ghost town of Cisco

This area is a mix of iconic Jeep trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Check out my adventure: Jeep Momma Moab Adventure

Jeep Momma Selfie in front of an Arch near Moab Utah
Selfie at Arches National Park

3. Oatman, Arizona

Old-West Mining History & Wild Burros

Located on historic Route 66, Oatman is a quirky desert gem. Wild burros roam the streets, descended from the mining burros of the early 1900s.

What to expect:

This is Americana at its best.


A donkey on the town street in Oatman, Arizona.
Donkey on the streets of Oatman

4. Creede, Colorado

Mining History, Mountain Beauty & Gateway to the Alpine Loop

Creede is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rich history. A perfect base for Jeep exploration.

Nearby 4x4 highlights:

This town is small but full of character and adventure.


North Clear Creek Falls Waterfall
North Clear Creek Falls, Colorado

5. Lake City, Colorado

High-Altitude Beauty & a Jeep Badge of Honor Trail

From Creede, take the scenic Colorado 149 Byway to stunning Lake City. This peaceful mountain town is packed with outdoor opportunities:

  • Lake San Cristobal (boating, fishing, paddleboarding)

  • Ghost towns and mining relics

  • Engineer Pass (Jeep Badge of Honor trail)

  • Alpine Loop access

It’s one of the most picturesque Jeep towns in America.

My Jeep overlooking the view of the San Juan Mountains on top of Engineer Pass.
My Jeep on Engineer Pass

6. Silverton, Colorado

A Historic Mining Town Surrounded by Jeep Trails

Reach Silverton via Engineer Pass, Stoney Pass, or the world-famous Alpine Loop. The town is a National Historic Landmark with lively shops, restaurants, and endless mountain scenery.

Nearby trails include:

  • Engineer Pass (Jeep Badge of Honor)

  • Poughkeepsie Gulch (Jeep Badge of Honor)

  • Corkscrew Pass

  • Cinnamon Pass

Silverton is a dream come true for Jeepers and overlanders.


Old Mine near Silverton, Colorado
Old Mine near Silverton, Colorado

7. Winslow, Arizona

Standin’ on the Corner—Eagles Fans Welcome

Made famous by the Eagles’ hit Take It Easy, Winslow is the perfect stop if you're exploring Northern Arizona.

Nearby destinations:

  • Sedona (known for Jeep trails and red rock scenery)

  • Flagstaff (gateway to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim)

A fun roadside Americana experience for Jeep travelers.


Jeep Momma Standin' on the Corner in Winslow, AZ


8. Bar Harbor, Maine

Coastal Charm & World-Class Scenery

Bar Harbor is packed with great food, local shops, and seaside views. It’s also the gateway to Acadia National Park, one of the most beautiful coastal parks in the U.S.

Perfect for Jeepers who want a mix of relaxation, maritime scenery, and national park exploration.


9. Taos, New Mexico

Art, Adobe, Mountain Views & the Rio Grande Gorge

Taos is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in America.

Why visit:

  • Adobe architecture and vibrant art community

  • Ski resort nearby

  • The stunning Rio Grande Gorge Bridge (10th highest in the U.S.)

  • Scenic 83-mile driving loop through Carson National Forest

  • Off-road opportunities around Wheeler Peak

Don’t miss the moment when you unknowingly drive over the Gorge Bridge—your stomach will drop!

My son looking down at the Rio Grande Gorge.
Rio Grande River Gorge Bridge

10. Salem, Massachusetts

History, Witches & Coastal Exploration

Salem is filled with fascinating stories from the 1692 witch trials. Take a ghost tour, visit historic homes, or stop by haunted Murphy’s Bar.

While Salem isn’t known for off-roading, it offers:

  • Coastal adventures

  • Maritime activities

  • Ferry access to nearby islands

  • Historical walking tours

A fun blend of spooky history and coastal charm.

More Haunted Places in Salem


My Experience Exploring Small-Town America

As someone who has driven my Jeep across mountains, deserts, forests, and coastal towns, these small towns stand out as the most memorable and meaningful. My adventures have taken me through rugged 4x4 terrain, scenic highways, ghost towns, national parks, and hidden backroads. These recommendations are based on real experiences, not guidebooks—each one a place that left a lasting impact on my journey.


FAQ: Must-Visit Small Towns for Jeep Owners


What makes a small town great for Jeep owners?
Great Jeep towns offer scenic drives, accessible off-road trails, good camping options, unique history, and beautiful landscapes. They make it easy to explore both on pavement and dirt.

Do I need a highly modified Jeep to visit these towns?
No. Many of these destinations offer a mix of paved scenic routes, dirt roads, and optional 4x4 trails. Stock Jeeps can access much of the surrounding beauty.

Which of these towns has the best off-roading?
Moab and the Colorado mountain towns (Silverton, Lake City, Creede) offer the most iconic Jeep trails, including Jeep Badge of Honor routes.

Are these towns good for non-off-roaders too?
Absolutely. Many destinations feature national parks, museums, scenic byways, fishing, hiking, shopping, and historic sites.

What’s the best time of year to visit Colorado mountain towns?
Late June through early October is best, as high pass trails are often snow-covered or closed outside of summer.

Is it safe to explore these towns alone?
Yes, but use standard road-trip and off-road safety precautions: tell someone your plans, carry navigation tools, pack essentials, and check weather/trail conditions.

Can I overland or camp near these towns?
Most of these areas are surrounded by National Forest or BLM land, offering excellent dispersed camping opportunities.

Small towns are the heart of America and exploring them in a Jeep makes the experience even more magical. Whether you're seeking jaw-dropping scenery, historic mining roads, desert solitude, or coastal charm, these 10 towns offer unforgettable adventure both on and off the trail.

Wherever your Jeep takes you, embrace the journey, support local communities, and make memories that last a lifetime.




Wednesday, December 1, 2021

7 Ways to Live in the Moment

Prioritizing the Present

Living in the Moment with my son at the Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado.
Living in the moment with my son at the
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado.



What Does It Mean to Live in the Moment?

Living in the moment means focusing fully on the present, letting go of past regrets and future worries. It’s about savoring experiences, connecting deeply with people, and appreciating life as it happens.

For me, that lesson came during my first cross-country Jeep Adventure Jeep adventure in 2012. As my kids grew into their own adult lives, I realized how precious each moment with them had become. That shift taught me the gift of letting go and being present.

👉 Related: Empty Nest: Evolution of Motherhood


My 7 Ways to Live in the Moment

1. Smile More

A simple smile can reset your mood and connect you to others instantly. It’s a reminder to stay lighthearted, even in stressful moments.

2. Stop Worrying About Tomorrow

The future is uncertain. Focus on what you can do today, and release what’s outside your control.

3. Always Move Forward

Don’t dwell on the past. Each new day is an opportunity to grow, reset, and take small steps toward what matters.

4. Pay Attention to the Small Things

Slow down. Notice the laughter of your kids, the taste of your morning coffee, or the view on your drive. Life is full of overlooked joys.

5. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude turns ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Write down 3 things you’re thankful for each day.

6. Let Go of the To-Do List Pressure

Your laundry can wait. Your dishes can wait. But time with loved ones doesn’t come back. Release the need to finish everything “right now.”

7. Disconnect from Technology

Take breaks from screens. Put your phone down during family meals, Jeep trips, or hikes. Presence beats scrolling.


Ben & I at Zapata Falls
savoring the moment together.
 


Embracing the Present

Living in the moment is about conscious awareness:

  • Drive slower, eat slower, and breathe deeper.

  • Appreciate nature whenever possible.

  • Focus on the people around you—you never know when it might be your last moment with them.

This isn’t easy. It requires practice and “brain re-training.” But once you taste the freedom of presence, you won’t want to go back.


FAQ: Living in the Moment

Q: Why is living in the moment so hard?
A: Our brains are wired to multitask and plan. It takes conscious practice to slow down, but over time, presence becomes a habit.

Q: How can I start practicing presence?
A: Begin small—pause before meals, smile, or take a deep breath when you feel rushed. Build from there.

Q: Is living in the moment the same as mindfulness?
A: They overlap. Mindfulness is a practice of awareness; living in the moment is applying that awareness to everyday life.


Final Reflection

My journey to living in the moment has been anything but perfect—I’m still learning every day. But my Jeep adventures, faith, and time with my kids have shown me this truth: life is too short to rush through.

Smile. Slow down. Be present. Because these moments? They’re the ones you’ll cherish forever.




Friday, July 9, 2021

Top 5 Must Do's When You Go Camping

Camping Regenerates Your Soul

Over the years, I’ve learned that less is often more when it comes to camping. The more gear you bring, the more time you spend packing, unpacking, setting up, and tearing down and the less time you spend actually relaxing. Smart packing takes practice, and everyone’s needs are different, but the right camping mindset makes all the difference.

Here are the Camping Must Haves that make every one of my camping trips more enjoyable:

  • A comfortable pillow

  • A quality sleeping bag

  • A tent that suits the weather

  • A sturdy camp chair

  • A cast iron pan

  • A grate for cooking over the fire

  • Food and lots of water (always the essentials!)

But beyond gear, there areTop 5 Must Do's When You Are Camping that make camping truly magical.



Campsite with chairs and campfire
One of my campsites with an amazing view. 

Top 5 “Must Do” Moments When Camping

1. Watch the Sunset

Bring your camp chair, settle in, and let the world slow down as the sun sinks behind mountains, trees, or desert mesas. This is the moment where busy thoughts fade and nature takes over.

2. Stargaze

Once the fire burns low and the night sky opens up, look up. Away from city lights, you’ll see more stars than you ever knew existed. The Milky Way, satellites, shooting stars—stargazing while camping is life-changing.

3. Cook a Campfire Breakfast

There’s nothing like waking up to crisp morning air and cooking bacon and eggs over a fire. It’s simple, comforting, and one of the most rewarding parts of any camping trip.

4. Make a Campfire

A campfire is the heart of the campsite. Sit in your chair and watch the flames dance. It’s grounding, calming, and part of the classic camping experience. (Always follow fire restrictions and safety rules.)

5. Enjoy a Slow Morning

Before your breakfast, take a moment in your sleeping bag. Look out from your tent at the landscape around you. Breathe deeply. Let the quiet sink in. These peaceful minutes set the tone for your whole day.


Why Camping Is Good for Your Mind & Body 

Camping reduces stress, enhances clarity, and reconnects you to nature. I’ve learned through countless trips—solo, with friends, and on Jeep overlanding adventures—that the simplest moments outdoors often become the most meaningful.

You will forget things. You will make mistakes. You will refine your setup over time. That’s part of the journey, and each trip teaches you more about what you truly need (and what you don’t).

Camping isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.


FAQ: Camping Tips & Must-Do Activities


What are the top things you should always do when camping?
Watch the sunset, stargaze, cook a campfire breakfast, enjoy a campfire (where permitted), and take a slow morning to appreciate the scenery.

What essential camping gear should beginners bring?
Start with a tent, sleeping bag, pillow, camp chair, cast iron pan, cooking grate, food, water, flashlight or headlamp, and a basic first aid kit. Pack light and build your gear list over time.

Why is a minimalist approach better for camping?
Bringing less gear means less setup, cleanup, and stress. You’ll have more time to enjoy nature and relax. Too much gear can make camping feel like a chore.

Is campfire cooking necessary for camping?
Not required, but highly recommended. Simple meals like bacon and eggs or foil packet dinners taste incredible when cooked over a fire.

How can camping help reduce stress?
Camping removes distractions, gets you outside, and encourages slow, mindful moments. Fresh air, quiet surroundings, and time away from screens help reset your mental state.

How do I learn what camping setup works for me?
Through experience. Try camping, note what you used and what you didn’t, and adjust your gear list. Over time, you'll refine your perfect setup.

What if I forget something important while camping?
It happens to everyone! Use it as a learning experience and add it to your checklist for next time. Most forgotten items can be improvised or worked around.

Is it okay to camp without a lot of gear?
Absolutely. Many seasoned campers prefer a minimalist style because it emphasizes simplicity and enjoyment over equipment.

Camping regenerates the soul. It clears the mental clutter, calms the nerves, and reconnects you with what really matters. Whether you’re car camping, tent camping, or Jeep overlanding, these five simple moments will turn your trip into a meaningful escape.

Each adventure helps you learn, grow, and simplify and that’s the true magic of camping.

Over time I have learned less is better when you go camping, as long as you are smart about what you pack. Everyone has different needs and wants, so it takes practice to figure out what works and what doesn’t for you. 






Friday, May 28, 2021

Top 5 Group Trail Ride Musts

How to Lead a Successful Trail Ride

Leading a group trail guide comes with responsibility. When you host a ride or volunteer as trail guide, the group looks to you for direction, organization, and safety. Not every driver with a 4x4 understands how group trail dynamics work and a great leader ensures everyone has a safe, smooth, and fun experience.

Whether you’re taking out brand-new wheelers or organizing a ride with mixed skill levels, these five essentials will help you lead a successful, well-coordinated Jeep trail run every time.


Group trail ride in the Colorado mountains.

What Makes a Group Trail Ride Successful? 

A successful group trail ride requires clear communication, defined roles, proper spacing, established rules, and consistent driver awareness. When everyone understands expectations before hitting the trail, the ride is safer, more enjoyable, and far less stressful for the trail guide.

Even if you frequently ride with the same group, these principles should be revisited anytime a new wheeler joins.


Top 5 Musts for a Successful Group Trail Ride

1. Assign a Trail Guide and Trail Gunner

Every organized ride needs two key roles:

Trail Guide (Lead)

  • Knows the route or has the navigation

  • Sets the pace

  • Leads every obstacle

  • Makes decisions about route changes or detours

Trail Gunner (Sweep)

  • Always the last rig in line

  • Ensures no one gets left behind

  • Helps recover or assist anyone who needs support

  • Communicates with the Trail Guide if the group becomes separated

Everyone Else (Middle Rigs)

Their job is simple but essential:
Always keep the vehicle behind you in sight.
If they fall out of view, slow down or stop until they catch up.

This prevents the most common problem on group rides losing drivers on the trail.


2. Hold a Trail Meeting Before You Start

Before tires hit dirt, gather everyone for a quick group briefing.

Cover:

  • Staying on the designated trail

  • Route overview (distance, difficulty, obstacles, weather)

  • Radio channel selection (GMRS, CB, ham, or hand signals if no radios)

  • Communication expectations (call out obstacles, hazards, delays)

  • Buddy system rules no wandering off alone

This is also a great time to remind new wheelers that trail etiquette keeps everyone safe and protects public lands.


3. Maintain Proper Spacing Between Vehicles

Spacing is critical for safety and visibility.

Why space matters:

  • Prevents rear-end collisions on sudden ascents/descents

  • Reduces the risk of catching flying rocks from wheel spin

  • Provides room for reversing or repositioning on obstacles

  • Gives space for momentum when needed

A good rule of thumb:
If the terrain is technical, increase your spacing.


4. Only One Vehicle on an Obstacle at a Time

This is one of the most crucial safety rules.

If the Jeep ahead of you is climbing an obstacle, descending steep terrain, or tackling a difficult line, wait until they finish before you begin.

This prevents:

  • Rollovers caused by sudden stops

  • Collision risks

  • Start-stop momentum issues

  • Distracting the driver ahead of you

It also gives the guide time to spot, assess traction, or adjust lines safely.


5. Park Smart After an Obstacle

Once you clear an obstacle, move forward far enough to leave room for the rigs behind you. Many new wheelers stop immediately after finishing the obstacle—creating a bottleneck and sometimes blocking the exit.

Smart post-obstacle parking allows:

  • Safe space for others to crest the hill or obstacle

  • Good viewing areas for videos and photos

  • Room for spotting and coaching

  • Prevention of rigs sliding backward into each other

Always be mindful of the terrain park on flat ground when possible, point downhill when required, and ensure plenty of room for the whole group.


Why These Tips Matter

I’ve led and participated in countless trail rides across the country from Colorado mountain passes to technical East Coast rock gardens. Every successful group ride I’ve been part of follows these exact principles.

Trail rides fall apart when communication breaks down, spacing is ignored, or new wheelers don’t understand group etiquette. These guidelines are built on real experience, real lessons, and real trail-life learning and they are the key to making group wheeling safe and fun for everyone involved.


FAQ: Group Trail Ride Tips & Safety


Why do you need a Trail Guide and Trail Gunner?
Because the Guide leads the route and pace, while the Gunner ensures no one gets left behind. These roles maintain communication and group cohesion.

How many vehicles can safely participate in a trail ride?
Most groups run best with 6–12 vehicles, but larger groups can work with strong communication and experienced lead/sweep roles.

Do you need radios for a group trail ride?
Radios are highly recommended. GMRS or CB ensures instant communication for hazards, obstacles, or mechanical issues.

Why is spacing so important on the trail?
Proper spacing prevents collisions, reduces risk from flying debris, and gives drivers room to maneuver safely through obstacles.

What do I do if I lose sight of the vehicle behind me?
Slow down or stop until they reappear. This is the most important rule for keeping the group together.

Can multiple rigs go up an obstacle at the same time?
No. Only one vehicle should be on a major obstacle to avoid safety risks and maintain control.

What should be covered in a pre-trail meeting?
Trail rules, radio channel, route overview, expected obstacles, recovery protocol, and how to communicate on the trail.

Group trail rides are one of the best parts of the Jeep lifestyle. With the right preparation, communication, and awareness, they become adventure-filled, safe, and memorable experiences that build friendships and skills.





Saturday, February 6, 2021

Top 7 Must-Do’s for New Jeep Owners

Embarking on My Jeep Journey: A New Owner’s Perspective

From a Former Beginner Turned Jeep Momma

In the spring of 2013, I became the proud owner of my first Jeep without any idea how much it would transform my life. I didn’t know about trail etiquette, aftermarket parts, off-road driving, basic maintenance, or even the Jeep wave.

I simply bought a Jeep… and everything changed.

What started as a daily driver eventually led me into off-roading, overlanding, content creation, mechanical confidence, and a community that felt like home. Looking back, I wish someone had handed me a simple list of must-do’s for brand-new Jeep owners. So that’s exactly what this post is: the guide I needed when I started.

Watch the video version → My Top 5 Must Do's as a New Jeep Owner

Let’s dive in.

Jeep Momma and her son in the Jeep.
My son and I in my Jeep. 


1. Get to Know What Your Jeep Can Do (Before You Modify Anything)

Before lifting, upgrading tires, or swapping bumpers, take time to understand your Jeep in its stock form.

Try it on:

  • Dirt and gravel roads

  • Forest service roads

  • Mild trails

  • Snow, rain, sand, or whatever terrain you have locally

Even if you don't plan to off-road, don’t be surprised if the Jeep bug sneaks up on you it did for me.

Helpful: Off-road Driving Tips for New Jeepers


My Jeep overlooking a mountain scene.
My Jeep overlooking a mountain scene. 


2. Invest in High-Quality Floor Mats

Especially if you have carpet.

Jeeps collect everything: sand, mud, rocks, snow, leaves, pine needles, spilled drinks—life happens fast in a Jeep. Good rubberized mats with raised walls protect your interior and make cleaning a breeze.

Brands I’ve personally used:

I’ve tested them both… trust me, they’re worth it.


Jeep Momma pulling out her rubber floor mats to clean them.
Rugged Ridge floor mats. 

3. Choose Your Accessory Color Early

Jeep owners LOVE personalization. Color accents, interior highlights, grab handles, diff covers, beadlock rings you’ll notice every Jeep around you once you start paying attention.

Choosing your color early helps you:

  • Keep a cohesive look

  • Avoid mismatched accessories

  • Build a theme that reflects your personality

And if a part doesn’t come in your color? Spray paint works wonders.

Try this: How to Add Color Step-by-Step Guide


Spray painting my interior parts purple.
Painting my interior accessories purple. 


4. Add Decals & Personal Touches

A simple decal can make your Jeep feel instantly yours. You can add:

  • A Jeep wave hand in your accent color

  • A custom name on your hood

  • A windshield banner

  • Trail badges or adventure stickers

Your Jeep tells your story let it show.


Purple Jeep Wave hand decal on the back of the side mirror.
My purple Jeep Wave decal. 

5. Install Strong Recovery Points (Even If You Don’t Off-Road)

Recovery points aren’t optional. They’re safety.

You might need to:

  • Tow someone out

  • Be winched out

  • Get pulled off an icy road

  • Help in bad weather

If you do off-road, proper recovery points are non-negotiable. They protect your Jeep and everyone around you.

Jeep Momma working on her first install of a front bumper.
Installing my front bumper. 


6. Join the Jeep Community Early

This one comes from the heart.

The Jeep community changed my life gave me friendships, support, confidence, and knowledge I didn’t have on my own. Joining a club, group ride, or online community will:

  • Teach you trail etiquette

  • Introduce you to safe off-roading practices

  • Connect you to mentors

  • Make trail riding less intimidating

  • Help you discover new places

No one understands Jeep life like another Jeeper.


7. Learn Basic Jeep Maintenance

I never expected to become someone who installs parts, tests products, or understands suspension—but that’s what Jeep life does.

Learning the basics empowers you:

  • How to check fluids

  • How your 4WD system works

  • Tire pressure for terrain

  • How to torque bolts

  • How to spot issues early

Each thing you learn builds confidence. It also saves money, makes off-roading safer, and prepares you for trail breakdowns.


What I Wish I Knew in My First Year as a Jeep Owner

These lessons would’ve saved me time, money, and frustration:

  • A stock Jeep is extremely capable—don’t rush upgrades.

  • Air down your tires—it changes everything on the trail.

  • Know the difference between 4H and 4L.

  • You will buy more accessories than you expect.

  • Off-roading leads to wear budget for maintenance.

  • The Jeep Wave is real embrace it.

  • Jeep life leads to friendships, confidence, and a lifestyle.

This year changed everything for me.


Why You Can Trust My Advice

I’m not just a Jeep owner I’ve spent over a decade:

  • Learning from hands-on trail experience

  • Building my Jeep and installing parts myself

  • Testing products for major brands (Steer Smarts, Extreme Terrain, Hooke Road, etc.)

  • Teaching new Jeepers through blogs, YouTube, and podcasts

  • Leading trail rides and sharing safety practices

  • Breaking things, fixing them, and learning the hard way

Everything here comes from real experience, not theory.


FAQ: New Jeep Owner Questions 

What should I do first when I buy a Jeep?
Learn what your Jeep can do in its stock form before modifying anything. Drive it on different terrain and understand its systems.

Do I need to modify my Jeep before off-roading?
No. Most Jeeps are extremely capable from the factory. Start slow and build experience first.

What accessories should a new Jeep owner buy?
Floor mats, recovery points, a tire pressure gauge, and a first-aid kit are top priorities.

Should I join a Jeep club if I’m a beginner?
Yes! Clubs help you learn safe techniques, meet experienced wheelers, and build confidence.

Why is picking an accent color important?
Accessories add up quickly. Choosing a color early helps keep your theme consistent.

Can I off-road alone as a new Jeeper?
It’s not recommended. Always go with at least one other vehicle until you have more experience.

Do I need recovery gear if I stay on pavement?
Yes—recovery points and basic gear are useful in snow, ice, mud, and emergency situations.

What maintenance should new Jeep owners learn?
Checking fluids, tire pressure, torque specs, 4WD usage, and basic troubleshooting.


Buying a Jeep isn’t just purchasing a vehicle it’s stepping into a lifestyle. It opens doors to adventure, growth, community, and confidence.

Start simple. Learn your Jeep. Personalize it. Take care of it. Find your people.

That’s how Jeep life begins.
And trust me… it only gets better.



Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Obsessive Jeep Disorder

Passion… or Full-Blown Obsession?

When I bought my Jeep back in 2013, I had no idea what I was signing myself up for. I thought I was just purchasing a vehicle maybe a fun, rugged one but still just a vehicle.

I didn’t realize I was adopting a lifestyle...
…catching an addiction…
…and unintentionally joining a cult-like family of Jeep fanatics.

Within months, the transformation began.
Within a year, I understood the meaning of:
 It's a Jeep thing —you wouldn’t understand.”
And by year seven?
Yeah… I understood all of it. The passion hits fast, and it fills your soul in a way no normal car ever could.

Selfie with my Jeep on the Broken Arrow Trail in Arizona
My Jeep Life is my Passion

Jeep Life: When Passion Turns Into Obsession

Jeepers get it.
Non-Jeepers don’t.

We love our Jeeps.
Our Jeeps make us happy.
Our Jeeps become part of the family sometimes the favorite member.

For many of us, a Jeep didn’t just change our commute…
It changed our life.

So the real question is…

Do YOU Have Obsessive Jeep Disorder?

(If you’re reading this, the answer is probably yes.)

Watch the video → Obsessive Jeep Disorder


Top 10 Signs You Have Obsessive Jeep Disorder

1. You see the UPS driver more than your friends.

He knows your name. He knows your dog’s name. He knows your Jeep’s name.

2. You have Jeep catalogs in the bathroom for “serious reading.”

Forget magazines. You’re studying lift kits.

3. You think about your Jeep even when you’re not driving it.

Normal people miss their kids. You miss your Jeep.

4. You park next to any Jeep you see—no matter how far the walk.

You’re basically forming a Jeep meet-up in the Target parking lot.

5. You have more pictures of your Jeep on your phone than your kids or pet.

And your Jeep always looks good.

6. You constantly check the garage or window to make sure your Jeep is okay.

Just a little peek… or twelve.

7. You buy Jeep parts for no reason. Serious mods? Cute accessories? Doesn't matter.

You need your Jeep fix.

8. You ask restaurant hostesses for a window seat so you can watch your Jeep.

Security cameras? Not needed. You are the security camera.

9. You get irrationally angry when your Jeep wave isn’t returned.

How dare they?

10. You’d sell your kids’ Legos to buy more Jeep parts.

(New axles > tiny plastic bricks.)

If one or more of these hit home…
Congratulations—you officially have Obsessive Jeep Disorder.

And yes, your non-Jeep friends may think you need therapy.
But that’s because they don’t understand…

It’s a Jeep Thing.
It’s a lifestyle.
It’s who we are.

The Jeep Family: Where the “Disorder” Makes Sense

The beauty of Jeep life is that you’re never alone.
You are part of a massive, supportive, slightly-crazy-but-wonderful Jeep family.

Your Jeep friends will:

  • Encourage your parts-buying addiction

  • Validate your anger over an unreturned Jeep wave

  • Check in on your Jeep when you’re out of town

  • Give you their old parts (like true heroes)

  • Tell you, “Yes, you DO need that new mod”

  • And yes… maybe even suggest buying another Jeep

These are your people.
Your tribe.
Your Jeep therapy group.


My Jeep Friends who understand

Own Your Jeep Life Proudly

Do not let the negative Nellies shame you.
Do not hide your decals, your mods, or your growing pile of Amazon boxes.
Hold your head high when you pull into family gatherings doors off, top down, Jeep shining like the star it is.

Take that Jeep up a mountain.
Through deserts.
Across backroads and small towns.
Let it take you places you never imagined.

Because you’re not crazy.
You’re a Jeeper.
And honestly?

You’re living your best life.


All us Jeepers get that saying. We say it a lot to our non-Jeep friends and family. We love our Jeeps. Our Jeeps make us happy. Our Jeeps are like a part of the family. For some of us… our Jeep has changed our life.

How do you know if Jeep is your obsession? Watch Here ➤➤ Obsessive Jeep Disorder




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