We were lucky to catch up with Kelley & Renee Hayes recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelley & Renee, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

We had been living in Texas for 14 years when Kelley’s job was transferring us to the Atlanta, Georgia area. We had recently purchased a 2019 Keystone Raptor 421CK fifth wheel toy hauler to camp on weekends and holidays. In December 2018 we hauled the fifth wheel to Georgia with the intent of Kelley living in the camper until we found a house. We were able to find a nice campground/RV Park close to Kelley’s office. Renee proposed the idea of selling everything & living fulltime in the camper. Kelley was hesitant at first but then agreed. Renee returned to Texas & began selling and/or donating everything. We were stationary living in the camper in the Georgia RV Park for 10 months. We took a trip to Asheville, NC for a week in October 2019. When we were pulling out of the campground after being stationary for 10 months we were both nervous. Everything we owned was in the fifth wheel. As we continued down the road it went from nervousness to excitement. Our mindset became, everything we own is in the fifth wheel & we can go anywhere!! Five months later Covid hit & Kelley began working from home. We then hit the road and began working remotely & traveling fulltime. Neither of us has any regrets for taking the risk & selling our home & downsizing. We enjoy tiny living and being able to explore the country. Kelley likes to say, “We have the worlds largest suitcase & we never forget to pack anything!”

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When Kelley’s job moved us to Atlanta, Georgia we downsized & began living tiny, Renee began posting & sharing our story on Instagram & Facebook. We were fifty year old empty nesters and came up with the name @fiftyandfifthwheeling. We enjoy posting & sharing our travels and tips and making videos to help other RVers or campers.

Is there a mission driving your creative journey?

Originally our goal was to hit 10,000 Instagram followers and to collaborate with companies. We hit that goal and have been able to work with many great companies. TikTok and reels became very popular & during that time we chose to take a 6 month break from social media and to just enjoy life, to not have to share it with the world. We are now back to sharing our travels and collaborating with companies. I think it’s important to have a good balance. To not get too consumed in work, social media, etc. and to take a break when it’s needed.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For us the most rewarding aspect of sharing our story is to inspire others. To share that life is not about how much you own. It’s not about the “stuff”. Life is about living. It’s about spending time with family & friends. Living out loud, exploring, traveling and meeting new people. Life is short & you never know what tomorrow will bring. But today, each day we chose to live life to its fullest!!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @fiftyandfifthwheeling
• Facebook: @fiftyandfifthwheeling
• Youtube: @fiftyandfifthwheeling