Life on the Road as a Black Woman | Independent Lens | PBS
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ม.ค. 2020
- "Is Van Life Harder for Solo Black Women?" Crystal left her old life behind to seek financial independence living in her van, and now she's developed a significant following on TH-cam as one of the few African American vandwellers sharing her experiences on the site. As she heads north to Maine to meet up and share stories with a few of her followers, we'll get a glimpse of the joys--as well as the challenges--of being a single African American woman living life on the road. But the beauty of the #VanLife lifestyle is if she doesn't feel safe somewhere, she can pick up and leave.
Is Van Life Harder for Solo Black Women? | American Nomads, Ep. 2
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"The reason they call it the American Dream is because you have to be asleep to believe it."
-George Carlin
👏🏾
It's a big club... and you ain't in it.
It's not even a joke or a punchline.. it's truth.
@@KatieRaeRae it may be a club, it may be big, but a whole lot of ppl were sold a big one attempting to fit appearances of so called success.........
@@DeeDee-hx1km True. But I was quoting Carlin too.
"We're just living to pay bills." That is the truth right there.
Yes, i think of that same thing. Life is short.
Yes, and it makes me very depressed.
Solid truth💪🏾✊🏾 I've thought about living small. My children are grown & just this video alone gives me butterflies
Unfortunately it’s the truth!
People can’t seem to enjoy the fruits of their labor, without having the worries of “if the lights will be on next week”....or having to choose between paying outrageous medical insurance, or rent once a month!!
Lord! That's the TRUTH! NO money left within 5 days of my monthly check hitting my checking's account! But I'll think of something that fits me as well, and be happy with my decision!
Crystal, I’m an old (mid 60’s) white woman and first let me say I’m sorry you have found yourself in places where you “just knew” were not the most welcoming. I have lived blind or silent most of my life but the older I get the more I understand. I hope I’m not just growing old but growing wise and into more of a human being. I have subscribed to your channel. I will probably never be a full time traveler but I am a full time enjoyer of the nomadic experience. I wish you nothing but peace and happiness and hope all the very best for you.
There are more people like you than they care to admit Sally. Many people just stay silent. I am a 64 year old person of colour and we are part time nomads. My Australian husband and I like to have a base. We are cautious as well in some places, and we are in Australia.
Sally clark, what is her channel?
@@tootsieshmutsie6428, I'm looking for her channel now. If I find it I'll gladly pass it on to you. If you find it 1st, PLEASE send it my way! Thank you in advance!
@@tootsieshmutsie6428 I believe her channel is “Crystal Vanner”. This channel popped up randomly as a recommendation after viewing this video!
I am a old white woman. I have been in the same situation.
2 weeks new in Texas.
Trying to get to the fair in Dallas from where I had moved to outside of Ft Worth.
I lost sight of that giant Farris wheel, got off the freeway to ask directions. Stopped at a little corner mkt.
I had not ever been concerned about what color anyone was. I'm not a person that's sees color, as a problem.
The man pointed at the door I'd just walked through and very adamantly said get back in your van and get the he'll out of here. I looked at him in shock. I said I need directions. He said your alive right now because it's Sunday. Well on that note I litteraly fled back to my van.
Got in locked the door and I don't remember because I was crying and scared. But found an on ramp and drove on. I was in a Dallas black neighborhood. I didn't have a clue about racism. That was in 1991. I got to the fair. A young black man was telling people where to park. I was now petrified.
But paid, and graciously said thank you. He smiled.
I took a long deep breath and thought, we all aren't like where I had been. So I deeply understand how you must feel. I enjoy your lifestyle. And hope I may follow you as now I am pretty grounded half off grid. In my private spot. But love all those I follow, adventures. Blessings.
I commend anyone who can pack up and go. Takes huge balls and free spirit. Right on sis.
Ovaries 😂
Yes it does and I can say from experience that it was well worth it to clear your mind and spirit. The only real obstacles are finances and getting over the fear of leaving it all behind.
I'm black, born in America, and I have been living in a van for just shy of two weeks. I love it and will chronical my journey.
I will watch your journey as it unfolds.
How does an african fall through the cracks of american dream.
If I had a van I would do the same I literally work just to get a bus pass and pay my landlord. I can't even afford to dream about extras right now
Get a credit card to pay bills go to auction buy a van ask someone can you live on their couch for 1month you can find away just think outside the box
@@JUSGREG
What is the "American Dream?", your dreams are not my dreams, or are they?
I pray she stays safe.
*I'm safe, healthy, happy, and doing my thang!*
@@CrystalVanner good for you Crystal, and i hope to one day join you, "life is meant to be enjoyed" and you are so right to many people in the USA and around the world are just existing to pay bills and allow others to enjoy the fruits of their labor especially here in the USA. I will freely admit i am one of those people who find no joy in life, every day its the same ole same ole get up go to work, come home and do it all over again. I honestly think i have forgotten what living a balanced life is all about, kids are gone marriage is over and all that is left is work. I just found out i lost over 80hrs of vacation time, and 70 hours of PTO (paid time off), simply because i dont have the money to take a proper vacation ( heck i dont have the money to take a staycation just for a few days. I think money is the biggest worry for everyone now days, how i am going to pay the rent, pay bills and god forbid your company closes or it decides to outsource the job. I hope the creator brings you much joy in life and that all your journeys are peaceful and fruitful for you.
Safe really who is 2020 REALLY?
@@CrystalVanner yes you are when your living freedom God have you stay blessed an highly FAVORED
@Mike Johnson , good point.
“I just left. Left the husband, left the condo” 😂a mood
FR
Why marry black women all they want is to leave
For real
@@thekorsh4230 you sound bout crazy 🤣🤣
"Downsized" him straight out of her life 👏👏👏 I mean, hey if it's weighing you down or bringing you pain and not healing, cut it.
"I just left. Never looked back." Sometimes you just have to do that.
You summed it up perfectly,” the American dream is not everyone’s dream”
@PCS
Eat fresh food. Go to live & wild animals markets.
I couldn't do it but I want her,and everyone else who is doing it to succeed
I was thinking the same thing.
*I appreciate that.*
That's very positive Scheene
You just wanna keep getting your weave
I'm going to use this Scheene. I love how you put this.
"Dissappointed with life," hit the nail on the head for me. Who ever said that I wanted to be a part of this society anyway ? I'll make my own choices, not what society tells me to do.
Spirit filled
True dat! I am now 59 years old, but when I was 32 my wife had our 2nd child. We made the same amount of money and decided that one of us should stay home with the kids. She loved her career. I didn't really like mine. But I could not get over the way I was raised, "that a man should be the bread winner and not be the at home mom" - even though I am the more nurturing than my wife. In hindsight, I should have stayed at home. Society doesn't give a sh-t about YOU! Why impress people you don't even know? Do what is best for yourself. Be a leader!
I’ve been living in a camper van for 3 years in NYC. One of the last places I thought this was possible. I’m a semi retired lawyer and I do legal temp work by day while working on my startup on nights and weekends. The simple life has given me the ability to take chances with my endeavors without stressing over crazy roommates (which I’ve had here) and being able to make an insanely high rent market. I’m also very close to Midtown where I work. Then I discovered RVs of all sizes all over the city. People are van/tiny house living/living out of cars all over the country. There is no stigma anymore. There’s just real life and you do what you have to do to survive and succeed! God bless everyone!
Why is a lawyer living in a van?
Omg really?! I didnt think that was allowed in NYC...where do you park? I live in brooklyn in a 3 bedroom but i feel unstable here like one wrong move and you could be homeless I want to buy a trailer or an RV.
Wow, I thought parking was an issue there.
Life is meant to live, not to by bills. I felt that.
"We're living to pay bills". So true,debt chokes the life out of you.
We're living in the Matrix feeding corporations with our energy to work and work and work to pay nothing but bills.
@@Afrikaislife umm...
To just be free like that...I can't even imagine
Could you do it?
Imagine
But is it really free though 🤔
Could be "lost".
Some people do feel lost in life.
I live like this. Been doing it for 2 years and love it!
I wanna do that sooo bad.. Like for real
As a black man traveling in Idaho I went to a town in Idaho where I could see and feel that my brown behind didn't have any business hanging around in that town.
I have the same experience as a white woman in Harlem.
Stay way from those places 🤔
You dont say 🙄
Lol
@@rosylee5683 white people's go to phrase for "lots of black people" is always Harlem or Chicago 🤣
I'm so glad to hear this, my daughter doesn't have a van but has lived a nomadic lifestyle for 6 or more years. She is a artist but worked as a barista, worked at national parks seasonally, now she's does horticulture. She has lived in New York, New Mexico, Virginia, DC, Georgia, Arizona, Ohio, Colorado, and now she's in California. She's originally from Flint, Michigan which I think helped her able to adapt well to situations. She is 27 going on 28 and started at 19 or 20. At first I would worry sick but now I know she's okay we don't talk everyday but I shoot her a text to let me know she's fine. She has been places I've never been such as Paris, Italy, Germany and Brazil using art grants.
👍
Wow, How AMAZING! 😊
Flintstone!!
Wow I would love to see your daughter's journey
Wow! She is amazing!
Go Crystal!! Lots of people of color are going Nomad these days and a surprising amount are women!! Need more interviews like this one.
VERY SAD ,'THE LADY UNSCHOOL ABOUT PEOPLE OF COLOR BE TEACHING HER 'THE ROPES, PEOPLE OF COLORS GOT NO LOVE FOR A NICE LADY LIKE'THIS SWEET LADY ON AMERICAN CITIES AND STREETS. HOLY FATHER ,I PRAY PLEASE WATCH OVER ' THIS LADY ON AMERICAN CITIES STREETS.
Hi Crystal. I'm from Colorado. I still watch van conversions. Love them. Glad to have seen a video of you. Hoping you're doing well. You have a nice sweet home. Hope to see more of your videos. Take care and God bless you and keep you safe always. Signed van conversion lover Sabra.
Women of color is different from black women lol
Offgrid Jack it’s a lot safer than the hood!
So everything IS about race, according to you.
Thank you PBS for editing Crystal's Black Vanlife as is and not painting it into a weird or dangerous thing. I chose vanlife with my toddler a little under a year ago and slowly been hanging up the American dream for my freedom! Best choice ever!!!
76 yr. old white sister here 😁
My home is for sale and I hope to share a campfire with you one day, out there, on the road!
I went all over the US for six months, at the age of 67, and loved it! Can't wait to get back out there!
Beautiful
Right on
Hey sister from a different mother. I'm 73 and well on my way to start living the life I've dreamed of. I hope to meet you out there I'm in Ga.
I eventually want to do this but with a box truck.... tired of this making other people rich, while they tell me to pull myself up by the bootstraps.
good idea
Get a cdl get paid and be on the road
Cheeky Devils
sonia scales that’s a Martin Luther King Jr quote!🙌🏾👑👏🏾
Word 😕👏👂👀
I am down sizing as well. What is it called “Space Management “ I am not living in a van or home or tiny house yet but I drive my tractor trailer and my truck is basically everything I have, and it’s cool for me. I will retire debt free. I was practically $200,000 in debt from school loans with 2 degrees and personal and business loans. I am down to $50,000 and hopefully finish it off at the end of this year by of course over paying my bills.
@Gary now that’s how you flip the script....what you just accomplished should be a TH-cam channel.... think about it congratulations 🍾
Gary, you are awesome 😊
Gary Mac Bless your heart! School loan debt is outrageous in this country. It’s not supposed to be a weight around your neck for life. Vote Blue 2020!
Good for you Gary
driver save your money.
I've been in your situation.
I'm a driver to.
Hey black female van dweller here!! I so relate to your comment of not letting others thought of my skin color dictate where I can and cant go. I will post up any and every where. Its honestly about having the confidence. The audacity and the entitlement. This makes a huge diffrence.
She's proving you don't have to be a long leg blonde, half naked to make it. Congrats!
😂🤣❤️👍🏾 *THANKS!*
Sure don't. Black women are beautiful! I was married to one but I'm widowed. Wish I could find another one like Vanessa.
What does that have to do with anything? Made bbn it, made what? Leave her husband with all the debt and bounce? Yeah so brave!
As a formerly homeless person, statements like this annoy me.
I've heard people say, of me, when I was homeless, this same nonsense: "She's making it . . . "
Uh, NO I'M NOT! I'm HOMELESS!
This woman says that she's only getting about $600/month. She's barely 'making it'. She NEEDS us to support her by subscribing, watching the ads, etc.
I hope to one day be back on the streets, but with an income. TO van-live would be nice. But to be homeless again (not having a dime to my name) is NOT what anyone desires.
Stupid statement.
Put your cash app in the description, so people can support you directly.
*I don't have CashApp. This isn't my video, so I have no control over the description box of this video. If you are someone who wishes to support me/my channel, you can contribute in growing the channel and improving the content in several ways; watching all of the videos start to finish, including ads, like/thumbs up the videos, subscribe, share the videos on social media, partner with me starting at $1 a month via Patreon **Patreon.com/HelloCrystalVanner**, or send a one time gift on PayPal, **PayPal.me/CrystalVanner**.*
@@CrystalVanner Sis, Cash App is the move.
You should add CashApp to your payment plan....
Help me with way to support her with money. Thanks , Marine 1
@@CrystalVanner please get cash app so that others can be a blessing to you ma'am.
It’s sad the way we’re living in this country. As much taxes we pay in this country (feeding the government)and the US government can’t make sure that we have affordable housing. Clearly evidence of a failed government!
Exactly!
Vote Bernie ✌🏾, we’ll actually have a shot at bettering the lives of so many of us
#BernieSanders2020 #VeteransForSanders #activedutyforBernieSanders 💙 🦅 🇺🇸 🤗 🗳️
Remember, we allow this govt. Pretty soon, they will have complete control. While we were busy so n our phones and making a living, they took away our freedoms. There is no taking it back now, imo. We the people, have a govt who is a for profit corporation. They Inc all federal agencies. Yet we don't profit from it. We are free to start a govt by the people for the people that is not a corporation but ...
Abdul Aliakbar preachhhh
I can’t imagine living in a van for one night never mind 3 years but I respect her for being brave enough to live that life.
Nope! No bathroom or shower. This is a no go.
We live in an RV and at first it felt scary but now I don't think twice about it.
I agree because just having to go to a truck stop to take a shower or having to use the 'toilet' in a lugable loo (basically a 5 gallon bucket with a toilet lid on top) you carry around with you. And I've actually had to do that for a few weeks (which was bad enough) after hurricanes here in awful, dreadful southern Louisiana and there was no water or power for several weeks. Couldn't imagine doing it for years.
@@kayp9318 I TOTALLY agree. Not for me either.
Clearly y'all forgot about gyms and thats sad
That Crystal Vanner's a strong lady.....love that she's living more free than most of us. Kudos to her bravery.
For sure.
My mom and step dad have an rv and hit the road. They’re both retired and have a fantastic time traveling. They get a lot of weird looks, especially my mom because she’s a black woman. But they’re having the time of their lives which is all that matters.
Enjoy your time and your journey ☺️
They're older, interracial, van deweller/nomads?....and they DONT have a youtube channel?
Yea! for them.
Crystal is a beautiful person with a kind soul. I’d love to attend a “meet up”. Great video of her.
*Thank you so much! I'm hoping to be able to one day have a gathering of "Vanner Fanners".* 😊❤️
@@CrystalVanner be safe out there!
Me too!! I hope she post something about one.
As a black woman who loves to travel to see new and different places, you are an inspiration! I live in AZ and sometimes the treatment is like living in the deep south. And I see it as the person who hates is totally unevolved. It's really their problem not mine. They have a ton of growing to do. I do not accept their limited opinion of me. They do not speak my truth. I hear you too when you say, we are not living... we are just living to pay bills. Many blessings to you dear sister!
So funny that people believe the Deep South is racist. Black and living in the south all my life. So many well mannered and respectful people in the south. We traveled up north and everyone was rude. No smiles, no good morning. Happy to be i the south.
You'll have a lot of people doing the van life America is about to change. So you're ahead of most. Shalom oh and I salute you sister I'm form the Caribbean. YaH bless you.
I have followed Crystals journey for 3 years now. She is a very inspirational Vandweller 2 many. 👍 This is so awesome! Safe travels 2 all Nomads!💪🚌✌🚐
*Thank you for watching and being a Vanner Fanner Family member. ❤️*
Thanks.
I'm a black woman looking for a bus with a wheelchair lift. I intend to hit the road, other black people or not. I'm a loner anyway, but it would be nice to connect with like-minded people sometimes. I've been watching Crystal for a bit now & I love what she's doing. Maybe I'll see some of you all out there sometime! Happy driving!
🤓🤓🤓
How did it go?
I'm also a nomad living out of my car...just traveling all around Texas 🇨🇱 I would love to connect with other like minded individuals who would like to connect.
Loved your post. I can walk but also in a power chair. I have been following Ms vanner and dawn of van life since I first saw her on bob wells utube channel. I am in the process of buying a van and got to tell you I am scared. I think I will keep my apartment until I decide if I can do the van life, and I'll stick to California untill I build up the confidence to travel long distance.
"I'm living my dream." You're living mine too. Just a few days ago I told my daughter that sometimes I felt like putting everything (in my apartment) in storage, packing a few clothes and essentials and just hitting the road. I didn't know anything about van life until today. But, I'm working to pay bills right now. Getting out of debt is a good goal, not a dream.
This reminds me of when I went to West Virginia one time. It was like a different planet there. The people stopped and stared when I walked around and everything.
*OH MY GOODNESS! So happy to be part of this project. Feel free to follow my ever changing journey, and see my new to me van at **TH-cam.com/CrystalVanner**, find me on Instagram and Twitter @CrystalVanner. Thank you Ben and David you guys rock.*
Crystal Vanner miss you. 🚐
This was sooooo cooooool. Interesting watching you being recorded while, you were recording a live.... Awesome! Thanks for sharing. And I LOVE Independent Lens - They always have compelling stories.
You are my favorite Vanner Crystal!
Congrats, Sis! ~Mikio 💚
Great job Crystal. I'm loving this. I can watch this over and over again.
I think this is absolutely gutsy! My only concern is safety for them. I pray they remain safe.
*I am!* 😉❤️
Thanks prayer works keep on doing it.
I live in a camper with my man (for 3 years this May) and we love it!!! It's been a wonderful change of pace and scenery. We live in the South currently and have traveled as far as Wyoming this year.
There are more than you know of Black Americans that want to live this way. And grew up on the road with parents this way in the 70's. I drive cross county, fish, camp, and teach my children ways of living. It's hard to find a partner on the same path or level. It's in our DNA to live vicariously. To be kind and love. Hope to be doing the same too when my last child go to collage. Already have no debt and good credit to figure it all out. Much love you and please be safe and be a registered firearm owner. Many blessings🌍🌳💐
*Guns laws change from state to state, so no gun for me. I've got a taser and knives.*
@@CrystalVanner Most have some form of "castle doctrine", which your vehicle qualifies for.
@@CrystalVanner en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_doctrine
Your car is an extention of your home. She needs a gun period! Common saying in New Orleans I grew up hearing, "I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6".
Remember I’m always here for you my darling friend.
Hugs and Love,
MommaFaye
*Thanks Faye*
I came up in the 60’s and 70’s this is what was done back then.
I've tried living in my car temporarily while trying to maintain my full time job with the goal of saving my paychecks because my house was in foreclosure the struggle is in your face 24/7/the challenge to being safe, finding locations to park , personal grooming, etc was stressful then. I can't even venture into the thought of depending on you tube income? The stress of it all. I understand the quest for financial freedom is strong and that motivates you but please develop a trade or a skill set along the way to sustain yourself long term...please. perhaps you will reach that bridge when you have too.. Safe travels
So are you still living out your car?
I like what you is doing for 1 stepping out on faith that is big amongst black peoples and 2 living your dreams. Stay blessed out there
I hope she has protection and has a family that checks up on her
She has a son and grandchildren she visits regularly 💙
Especially if she goes to Indiana, Mississippi, Alabama, West Virginia, and Kentucky.
@@luvbig41 Indiana?
If this 2020 every body need to be safe watch the news like Really.
@@luvbig41 , Don't Forget Louisiana and Texas
Well done to her. I'd rather experience dawns and sunsets, the changing colors on the leaves, the beautiful skies and nature, than be depressed in my 9-5. I'd rather go for a walk on a beautiful day than zoom around in the latest model car. I've come to realise owning, and paying for things I really don't need, cannot compare with the beauty and simplicity of life she's experiencing. I really commend her bravery and envy her sense of spirit.
I'm black woman who has been a nomad since April 2019 and I Love it!!
That's true. I'm a black woman and I'm happy I came across this video. Currently I'm in my car. Morning full time. But in my car trying to get back on my feet. I was unemployed for over a year. I headed out on faith across country to a new city and quickly found work. It doesnt pay well. But it's a start.
Its a start🌟❤
Yes and it’s so sad that people still look at us as we shouldn’t be a part of a country our ancestors help build.
Truth
Black Rose Yes truth
Black Rose .....Well Said Rose! Well Said!
😪
😉
We need more of this our new reality.
Could you do it?
Preach Kia
Im so happy i found you. Im a latina thinking of the van dwelling life and yes I was wondering about the diversity.
Looking for a van myself so I can just GO! just God and I. 🤔💛
👍
Did you find a van? How is your journey going?
I love this part “Life is meant to be lived and we’re not living it”. Sis you are so right. So many people are unhappy but will never admit it but it shows in their attitudes and the way they treat others. You are such an inspiring breath of fresh air and I love your outlook. I’m single, no children and what you’re doing I’ve contemplated but never had the courage. I would definitely love to get rid of my $2000+ monthly mortgage. Definitely a new sub and keep documenting your journey. Stay Blessed and Much Love To You!
May the Creator of the Universe keep you safe!!! Im so happy you didn't allow yourself to be stuck. You go girl!!!!!!!
The American dream has always been about freedom! Thanks for sharing your experiences!!
Girl I’m so proud of you and my God Bless you always.
*Thank you*
This is why I love Public Television for shows like Independent Lens and pieces like the one about Krystal. Keep up the great work Independent Lens! 👍🏽
*Thank you. ("C" not "K" 😊)*
I’m a truck driver and I live in my truck with my best friend. This is the life I’m wanting to live. I think it’s awesome. I grew up a military brat and I never lived anywhere very long. I guess it’s in me and I’m super introverted so I love this. It’s so inspiring.
This woman genuinely looks happy and is doing her thing, good for her!
We can do things that we never thought we could when we have to!
Now, this is the truth!
Life is meant to be lived!! I hear you sister. Enjoy! See the world!! Stay safe! You have an amazing vibe! I wish you the best! ❤️
Could you do it?
Crystal...You are a "beautiful soul" and I hope that YOU do not take other people's opinion's as a "strike" against you!!!! Don't take take what people say/do/act as personal towards yourself!!!! Kudos to you for what you bring to your channel and to the community!!! Kudos!!
Sunday September 24 2023, Just so everyone knows Crystal is the reason lots of black women started Vanlife including myself. She’s honest don’t hold back on anything and a legend in her own time. Thank you Crystal 🙌🏾
*THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR COMMENT!!! It means so much to know I'm still making a difference. I've had some life changes, BUT I still adventure when I can. I'm forming a peer community for all and plan to be full time again May 2026* 💛
Damn right lady. You found and are living your own life. Bravo.
this lady's view on things is more balanced than most.
glad she lives her road life.
It's also just some folks are nomads and enjoy seeing new things. Thatnks for chronicling this unique and less well known van life. And honestly allowing her ot share what she has experienced.
I respect people doing what they really love and it's inspiring ✊🏽
What an awesome brave lady👍 free of bills,a job that she's not glued to for years, can travel the country,meet new people and be one with nature.
Living your best life💕💕🌹
I love it! enjoy my sister!
Thank you for sharing🤗💕
New subscriber from Phoenix Az.
I love your energy and vibes!!!!!!! You’re such a phenomenal woman!!!!!!! I’m a new subscriber!!!!
*Thanks for joining the journey!*
Could you do it?
Me too!
Girl! Bless u! I’m a black man enjoying this lifestyle. Listen guys, we’re all going to die! Go enjoy your. I’m a dog walker, I’ve already been all over the world. What this has done for me has introduced me to adventure and freedom from stress. I lost a hundred pounds and free air has a taste. I can eat at any expensive restaurant in the country. I’m an excellent cook, thanks TH-cam and I only cook once a day if at all.i used to eat an entire pizza in a 24 hour period. Now a slice carries me all day. When u go home all u can really do is keep your stuff company. This lifestyle is brimming we adventure, y not do it. I still live in my neighborhood bc of pandemic but I am ready to meet all of u out there. There’s a squirrel on my van right now, I love it.
Starting my journey in a couple of weeks.. From Dayton heading south to start.
I enjoy Crystal so much and to see her highlighted this way is amazing.
Short though it is, I think this video captured the essence of Crystal. Of course it didn't cover her book club (currently reading The Alchemist), or the encouragement to meditate/visualize/relax and improve one's self. Onward ever upward.
*Yeah, about 4 days of filming and a few sit downs at RTR 2019, got condensed into 6 mins 😂🤣🤷🏾♀️.*
"We're living to pay bills.", is the realist thing said, especially in this current economy. I don't live the van or other nomadic tiny house life, but as a WOC/mixed race Black woman that enjoys road trips and plan on doing an RV road trip, I completely understand the concept of knowing where we're not welcome or wanted. The fact that there are so many online Black communities that essentially serve as a modern day Green Book, really speaks to the fact that we still live in a nation where racism is still very much alive and well. Her journey is so interesting, I wish this video were longer.
You all, especially Crystal, have inspired me to stick with my plan to avoid buying more stuff. I have a car that I recently paid off and a house. Sometimes I visit others who have more luxurious homes and think how it would be nice to have more, but I think I want to continue paying stuff off and NOT buying more stuff. Nothing like freedom from bills and not caring what anybody thinks, especially the ones who don't have anything but advice for you on how you should stay in debt.
I love this woman's attitude and spirit. I feel what she's doing is very important for us all. I grew up with a father that was pretty racist, and I was determined to counter that conditioning. Thankfully desegregation, and the 60s & 70s culture and music were there to help with my resistance. I applaud your efforts Crystal, and will be subscribing to your channel to help in some small way.
*Thank you so much*
Your story inspires me when you talk about relationships that don't work, and how you left, and now living in a van, because I am in a relationship that isn't working, and I will eventually leave and begin my journey on the road. Happy Travels!!
"Life is meant to life - we live to pay bills... that is the absolute truth!
This is beautiful to meet up w the people that are or want to be apart of awesome communities like this
This was AWESOME!!! Chrystal you’re such an Inspiration to so many! Keep living the dream Lady!!! 🙌🏾🙌
*Thank you so much*
Back in the 60s it was the HIPPIE LIFESTYLE. THIS IS NOTHING NEW. VAN LYFE WAS THE THING BACK THEN.
*Not so many Blacks were doing this then. We weren't "free" to roam the country, it's still difficult to do in some areas *
I think hippies were more about drugs and casual sex though? That's not what my vision of van life is. I have no interest in drugs/pot.. I value my health and brain cells.
But van life then was a vogue option to say you're anti establishment. You could still quit van life go get a job and buy a house. People now are losing houses, marriages, income and jobs and seeking freedom from the rat race.
I love you ma’am. I’m like the masculine version of your story. Not a van but a car, it’s amazing how much you can adapt to living life differently than the societal norm. Some of the struggles include the expense of fuel, adapting to dc energy sources, finding communities that allow space for nomadic dwellers within their community. I’m grateful to have found your channel. Ironically I’ve visited VA this year. Sorry I missed you. Be safe. You are in my prayers
Where do you shower or use the washroom?
I admire you Crystal for having the courage to live your life on your terms. I'm going to look for more videos about you. Be safe and God bless you.
Crystal, Love you Sister! My Uncle Jimmie was 6'6" & black. Him & my oldest brother were Buds 101st Airborne Vietnam! We're All Green (Army) Proud that I served as well! Stay Strong and Carry On! Love and God Bless America! Uncle Jeff!
You go girl! I'm proud of you for doing what you are!!! Life is to be lived, not existing to pay for a home you only use part of and pay for the whole thing! I started doing disaster relief, helping , not getting paid, and living on a small check and donations, I also do Ministry! I have been on the road now for 11-1/2 yrs. Just downsized from a Class A to a Shuttle bus that I'm getting ready to redo! Love your vid! Congratulations, and don't let anyone stop you! Just a while back I tried to settle down, and that lasted about 4 months, I had sold my rig, and so had to buy another, always used, and average 1994-97 year. They were better built. Now they throw them together!!!!!!! Anyway! Wanted to say hi! Hope to see you down the road. You mentioned Maine. I am from there, almost a Canadian! Don't like the Cold and not the real Hot! Enjoy and don't be afraid to live your life !!!!! Rick
Good for you. I'm just getting started hope we meet on the road somewhere.
God checks on you when you're alone, not feeling okay, not doing well or upset with people on your job. 🙏🏾💓💯
You’re so authentic and actually care about people. Your spirit is beautiful.
She’s so living her truth. Awesome move.
I love her mindset! It's a big beautiful world out there, I wanna see it in person!
I've often thought about 2 people, both working their tails off, just to pay for the stuff they dont get to enjoy, because they're too busy (or exhausted) paying for it.! There's got to be a better way! Hats off to this lady!👊
O my ! Thank You So Much ! Did it for almost a Year ! We are looking forward to supporting you and others through our work ! Im very inspired in a good way - again - thank you so much !
Crystal you deserve everything that is good in this world. Please believe that.
Awesomeness! Crystal is living. Nice to see her in this PBS documentary about living her vanlife. ❤👍🏽❤😍
What a wonderful snippet of your van life Crystal! This was very well done!! Kudos to you and the filmmakers!! 💕💕💕
*Thank you.*
I did not know, that so many persons lived life this way. May God Bless you all.
I would love to do the van life for maybe a month out of a year. Don’t know if I could do it permanent though, but I admire this young lady so much.
*Thank you.*
Love this!!! Bought an RV back in 2015 for myself and four kids to live and travel in. I love homeschooling and living this lifestyle.
She is so right. I currently am researching and getting my things together. I am hoping when my youngest gets ready to leave. I have to help her with her van first and then I have to make sure I can get my van for my son and myself. I know the universe is going to assist me. This is my dream
I'm glad I found you on TH-cam. Safe travels and pray you have wonderful experiences with new places and people.
Inspiring, articulate, self-actualizing. Bravo, Crystal.
You are living your life on your terms is awesome!