#5 Getting ready for winter & facing our fears
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.พ. 2025
- Feels good.
People / companies who've made this series possible:
My Patrons
Thomas (& Scot ;) @tahhmas + @easy_goings_ on IG
Brooklinen
ThredUp
[Some links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize any purchase.]
Camera Gear:
amzn.to/3Byk99f
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Links to things in the truck:
The Heater: amzn.to/3tulCsA
My duvet: amzn.to/3hqKSe0
Duvet Cover (Pink Linen): www.brooklinen...
Carpet (blue): amzn.to/3r65AE6
My bullet Journal: amzn.to/36lA6PS
My toilet: www.trelino.co...
Spotify Playlist: open.spotify.c...
Music by c418
Patreon: / mariahalice
Business: mariah@influint.co
![#6 The point of no return [three big windows]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/9CcLu7QAGcs/mqdefault.jpg)
![#6 The point of no return [three big windows]](/img/tr.png)
Helloooooo- long time no see. Sorta. Finn & I are currently working on getting the truck fully ready to hit the road for good & also working on hiring on an editor so that maybe (just maybe) I’ll be able to show up ✨in all areas of my life✨ (lol) a lil more consistently. All that said, I’ll be posting more regular updates on Patreon, and I’ll hopefully
be back posting semi regularly in a little under two weeks here on TH-cam🤞.
Okay, be back soon enough :)
All the best! We’re not going anywhere dw :)
Are you looking for an editor? :)
We miss you, and want you to be safe and happy 😊
I feel proud of you - and I dont even know you!!! Well done for getting this far. Have a great journey! Onward and upwards! Great vid and vibe!
I need to get on the road and possibly want to be an editor someday! ❤ you and Finn are adorable together! 😉👍🌸
Great job on the heater install. Next up, get some insulation in there so you don't have to use the heater as much. Your videos are more inspiring than you probably realize, so keep up the great work documenting everything.
Yup yup
Ford's White Paint peels on every model they have made. Constant inspections and Maintenance, just like you are doing. Keep up the GOOD work. I am amazed in your skills and tenacity.
We're already damn proud of you Mariah! 🤗
Finn is the cutest little creature. Never complain. Wish I have one like Finn 💕🐩💕
Watching you figure things out as you go and learning new things is so inspiring to me! So often we don't get to see the reality of people's builds or they already seem like professionals. Which then makes it feel impossible for the rest of us. Just love watching your journey and progress! 💚
We're all rooting for you Mariah! Proud of you and all you've done so far!!
My mom always said don't be afraid to try new things, you couldn't walk but you learned. lol. Love how you mix time for yourself and the build. Great job!!! So inspiring!!
Am I the only one that "felt so proud" of Mariah for accomplishing this??!!
Good job!!
Omg! I’ve missed so much. Girl 😢 I teased. I’m so happy you starting new chapter. Love the new truck. Keep going and keep those videos coming. Thank you so much for sharing. Do you have Penpal?
Yup
Does everyone get a trophy in your world?
It's called be self sufficient you don't get a trophy you get a life lesson..
Inside heat on metal exposed to outside cold equals interior condensation…. Future lesion? Solution, insulation. ALWAYS enjoy your videos!! Everything has a first step, starting in the middle to figure that out, is ok. Difference between a good carpenter and a bad one, good one knows how to hide the mistakes.
Finn in a blanket is the definition of adorbs!!
Mariah - please get a carbon monoxide alarm for your rig (if you don't already have one). Fuel heaters are great - and well done on installing yours. If they get a leak, and you're sleeping in an well-sealed enclosed space, it could go badly...
The rain sounds on your truck at 11:42 and then combined with you preparing your food was such perfect ASMR. 😉
I can imagine it being hell when you're trying to sleep, though! But it's a simple fix; a sound deadener like Dynamat, Noico, etc covered up with a nice homey headliner would make the interior more peaceful when it matters.
Having two daughters of my own, It's great to see you progressing towards your goals. Your location is stunning and you videography is fabulous. The narration is straightforward and down to earth. Finally, you are lovely both inside and out.
With every video I get a little more impressed by how fiercely independent you are - I have seen a lot of your videos. Keep going!
Bring it to Missouri and we will. give you a hand!
Insulate the van. Install a MrBuddy and a Quarter size propane bottle. For A/C There are floor standing Air conditioners.
I love when sweet little Finn nudges you as if to say “ Mama, I’m ready to go to sleep”. Keep up the great vids.
Always a pleasure watching your videos. You always have a sense of calm about you that makes watching, more relaxing. All the best!
i'm loving this journey so far
Love the content! My advice would be to make sure your diesel tank is in a spot where you can just pull up to a gas pump and just fill it with the nozzle. I have the same heater in my Chevy Express (much smaller space) and I'm filling it at LEAST once a week while living full time in Idaho (and it's not even that cold, yet)
I've been contemplating the idea of getting two tanks(or just one bigger one) if I ever got a box truck.
I love how you are facing your fears and making your truck rebuild happen. I have a hard time with physical things myself. So seeing this encourages me. Even though I often need to call a pro, at least I won't be avoiding it.
Love your videos. I've been married to my husband for almost 47 years. We've had 2 homes and he loves to do projects and not hire people if he doesn't have to. He can make multiple trips to the hardware store for one project. That being said, your doing some of your build work in the Home Depot parking lot, BRILLIANT! I continue to look forward to your videos. Best of luck!
Doing a great job with the remodel. When you find rust again, after sanding the area apply an etching primer before painting. The etching primer will penetrate the metal and stop the rust. Other than that advice you are doing a great job
I was thinking the same thing and wondered why she was stirring the paint with the other side of the paint brush. I was wondering where the stir stick was. I'm just amazed at her doing all this alone. She's doing an awesome job.
Good to see you post a new video Mariah. I was beginning to worry that you and Finn had gone into hibernation for the winter, not to be seen again until spring. 😆
I'm not there to physically help you, all I can do is offer up encouragement and praise and tell you that you're doing just fine.
Remember, one day older Mariah will be saying to herself " I've walked on the shores of oceans, I've stood on the side of scenic Mountains, I've walked in a forest of glistening snow-covered trees, I've swam in icy cold rivers and streams. But one of my fondest memories, is completing a live-in in home on wheels that I completed all on my own". 🤗
No mistakes, No progress. You are doing a great job.👍
I know you like the mountains, but that footage of the transition from Monterey down towards Big Sur was... I would live there forever. Good work on this portion of the build!
I really like how you keep talking about how you don't know what you are doing....but then you put in a bunch of research, do good prep work, and end up doing a real good job on the truck (ie, repainting, or roof sealing, heater install). It is great that you are showing a lot of people the essence that 90% of DIY is overcoming fears, doing your research, and not being too lazy/scared, and just embracing difficulty and mistakes.
I must say you are by far the most genuine van lifer I've seen on TH-cam. Keep it up!!!
Looks like you got the roof completed just in the nick of time. I’d say you can handle projects just fine! Step by step and keep pushing til done. Enjoy! 😎
Is there anything you CAN’T do? Lol. You are a jack of all trades. You go girl!!!🥰🥰
Great job!!! I’m impressed. You overcame whatever fear you had and plowed forward. Now apply that logic to all you do and you’ll be surprised what you can accomplish! Just DO it!!!
I love the way you take the bull by the horns and just DO things. Nobody is an expert the first time they do something, and it's great to have the courage to just try. To maybe make a mistake, but learn from it then take on the next project. This kind of experience and confidence-building is invaluable to develop as you go through life.
just remember, if you try something and it doesn't come out just right. It wasn't a failure-it was a learning experience
It is weird that I’m like, super proud of you? Haha. It’s just so impressive to see you do all of this on your own. Keep on keeping on.
Get a small vented diesel heater. Even if you have to have a separate tank for fuel. There are plenty on Amazon really cheap and you will want a solid heat source that is not overly electric dependent.
You are doing great! Keep doing lists and checking check boxes and you will do fine. Love watching the truck take shape. Your building adventure is an extension of your travel adventures.
You never know what you can do until you try. I feel so proud of you for having the courage to try something different. I'm 62 years old and I have never had the courage to do what you are doing. I really regret that.. keep doing you. I pray God 's protection around you. Be safe.
I’m so glad that Finn is there experiencing with you , I love seeing him in your vlogs. You’re amazing Mariah! Don’t ever think you can’t do something. You clearly did that and great at it. Box is coming along nice… 💗🐾 sending love.
For rust removal...Naval Jelly is great. It really removes the rust and reduces the time it takes to sand the base down. Just an FYI.
Beautiful scenery on your walk Mariah
You're awesomely capable, some moments will suck and others you'll shine but that's okay, but you're doing great! Remember every carpenter, mechanic, artist, or otherwise was once a person who didn't know what they were doing before being taught or teaching themselves. You've got this! I also watched a lot of Regretlss' bus build videos at the chrome yellow shop for some build strategies and ideas to help me once I start.
So exciting. And I've said it before and it deserves mentioning again - Finn is so stinkin' cute.
Mariah, you are a favorite and I also can’t get enuf of Finn’s cuteness. I have faith that you will learn, grow and succeed in this new venture because of your will and strength of character. I would like to offer a few suggestions tho. Getting back on the road is what makes you happy but sometimes delaying gratification can be the path of least resistance. I agree with the comment where someone said that some planning is a necessary part of the process. As you plan to head into cold weather, please consider insulating the van before you go. This will of course first require planning your placement of things. Will you be adding windows and if so, where, will you need a fan opening in the ceiling, etc. Please stay safe and warm. I look forward to your next update!
Just installed a diesel heater myself. Finsihed the wiring up today. Haven't even put diesel in it yet and it's expected to get down to 25 tonight. Woot!
Good to see another video.Loving the build so far.
Mariah, enjoying the vids!!. Can I suggest you UN-COIL the wire to the heater (and ANYOTHER wounded wiring,) reason electricity generates HEAT and CAN result in wiring catching FIRE!!!. Hope this helps, God bless and safe travels!.
This project is going very well. Love seeing the updates.
Loved seeing that your zest for adventure is coming full circle.....
Congrats! So glad everything worked out with the build, getting jealous of the new digs.
Sweet build Mariah. So much interior space but not too big on the outside! I once had a Uhaul truck like that and the plastic-covered wood side panels rotted out on the bottom due to the seal between the side panels and aluminum bottom rail leaking, so make sure to keep that seal at the bottom of the side panels in good condition so it does not leak.
Love watching your build! Just one quick tip. Make sure to a mask to protect your lungs when sanding/painting :). Also would love to see a more detailed video of how your diesel heater build turned out.
Good going gal. Sealing all those head can and well leak down the road.
I think that as you get further into this build you are going to be surprised by how capable you are. Good to see you going for it.
Finn's little yawn was adorable 😍
Chance favours the prepared mind! Love your work and adventures.. stay safe!! Achoo!
I am enjoying your time with us. A box truck and a young lady a her little dog is different from all the other utubers I watch but that is one reason your daily adventures intregue me. See you on the next one. From Central Oklahoma
Great plan and execution so far! My life motto has been: "erring on the side of caution is better than future issues, or doing a job over".
Are you eventually going to insulate your walls a little because that might help with heating? Im not saying like thick walls, but at least the thickness out to the wood rails.
In the future that's not nearly enough lap sealant and you really don't need the tape over it. Just put a nice glob of lap sealant wherever you want to seal and be done with it. That way you can inspect it in the future and you don't have to deal with ripping off that tape down the line when you actually have to fix something.
Girl you are truly awesome your taking care of things in the right order the roof is probably the most important place to start 👍
Taking care of the small rust issue and doing it properly was awesome
I'm glad you now have heat that will make life so much better BUT i personally think mounting the diesel tank behind the drivers seat is definitely not a good idea diesel fumes smell all the time especially when you're driving in the summer and the cab is warm mabe cover the tank with a wet/damp towel to keep the smell in
Take care stay safe and God bless 🙋♂️🇬🇧🇺🇸
Hope you have done the math on the diesel heater, they use quite a lot of 12v power and, especially if you are using the truck's main battery, you do not want to wake up with an engine that won't start !
You can do it, you can do anything, because when you can't and it all goes to shit, you're just going to reset and try it again. You don't have to be perfect, just keep living and learning and keep moving forward.
Enjoying your channel and wish you all the best with your build.
That is a wonderful place to put the heater thank you for showing me that I could not think of where to put it.
Mariah do not doubt yourself. You have talent & skill working with your hands. I am very impressed with the work I have seen you do. Remember. we impose our own limitations by thinking we can't. You can do anything just by setting your mind to it and beginning the project. Then, once you are actively working on the project all the pieces fall into place. I wish you success in everything you do & the very best of luck! Regards!
As always, your awesome editorial captions are a mixture of self-deprecating humor, self-awareness, optimism, and experience-based cynicism. The attention to detail you show is clearly grounded in your previous experiences. We all tend to self-censor a bit when choosing what to share on social media, and van life influencers get their share of this. But as a non van-life viewer, I think you really provide a glimpse or sense of much of your process for both good and bad.
You def sound like you're prone to overanalysis, and sometimes paralysis, inaction, or procrastination due to being overwhelmed (as you said). I'm not invested in the van life myself, but the personal journey aspect is pretty huge. I hope you continue to find what you want in this whole process, and that win or lose you come out of every experience for the better and with a net gain (or at least a minimum of negatives -- van life appears to be a real struggle skirting on the edge of financial hardships, much like many other forms of freelancing, self-employment, gig work, etc).
Not trying to simp, in case it looks that way to some other commenter. Just relating where I can from my own experience. I've been self-employed for most of the past decade out of necessity, so I'm certainly projecting a lot of my own past life/financial insecurities as I pursued self-sufficiency, into this scenario.
congrats on the heater install.. you can do anything you put your mind to.
I love what you're doing!!! Not someone who has loads of money to throw at something. I am moving into an old rv without anything ready, and going to try to stay sane and safe and get things done. I am glad you can park somewhere. That is so important
So true, having a landing pad is important. She is fortunate to have a pad for fixing things and upgrades.
Great video Mariah
You're a hardcore vanlifer. Rock on. 👍👍👍👍
When I saw you had posted a new video I made myself a coffee and settled down to watch! Thanks for sharing your journey. I’m saving for my next build and watching you helps the time go by as I live vicariously through your build! So nice to see you develop your skills and confidence 👍💪🏼
You shouldn't doubt yourself. You've conquered every project I've seen on this channel nicy, it's actually quite impressive.
I had to stop as soon as you finished tucking Finn in. That was cute. He is living his best life.
i’ve two of those heaters. fortunately plenty of tech videos online for when they play up. Along the way i’ve stripped both of mine down a few times and replaced parts. (Only because i didn’t run them over summer) I would definitely recommend you spend $20 on a carbon monoxide alarm. Probably sucking eggs reading this as I guess you probably have one. So much heat from those units, absolutely great to have.
Way to go! Cool video I couldn't believe you didn't get paint on your jacket😄
You know you can get panels that will insulate the inside of your box, they use them in refrigerated trailer, and you maybe able to get them cheap from wreaking yards that have the damage d wrecked trailer, and get some Henry's roof coating, it's awesome stuff.
I'm really impressed that your tackling this on your own. Good for you
I LOVE that you are trying and doing projects that most women won't even attempt...my wife included. Will you make mistakes? Yes, I still do and I'm 75 years old and have extensive mechanical experience. SO, great job. Take your time and do it right the FIRST time. I really admire what you are doing and the lifestyle you are choosing.Hugs from this old man.
The heater install looks good Mariah. I hope the gas inlet (did you mean diesel inlet?) arrives soon so you can keep warm.
Please make sure you have Carbon Monoxide AND Smoke Detectors installed in the Van ASAP if you don't already. I can't remember if the new Van has a name, if so what is it?
Really enjoy the build, your doing fine
You made an excellent job of the roof..
You should install some sort of vent so moisture doesn't accumulate inside. That might cause problems with mold or mildew.
You are a brave, carefree, awesome, bright, daring young lady. You aren't afraid of challenge. Finn is adorable he is probably the only dog in America that travels to the most beautiful places. Love your videos Mariah!! Keep them coming and be safe!!💕
Girl you did it. Wow. That´s so cool and I really love your Videos. Can´t wait to see what you do next. Greetings from Germany.
Great vids. Wish you all the luck with the build.
You go girl! ✋ Alot of people wouldn't even attempt to fit that themselves so a huge pat on the back in order. What a sense of accomplishment. And when you know things inside out you don't feel overwhelmed if something starts playing up further down the line.
Great job! 👏👏 And Finn is just adorable the way he climbs inside your sweater 🥺🥰🐾 Love & respect from Scotland ❤️
Yayyyyyyy! Missed your vibes after finding your channel. So happy to see you trugging on along honey bunches ✨❣️❣️
05:06
We use a DA (dual-action orbital sander) for all kinds of projects.
Example:
We acquire cast-iron skillets and Dutch ovens.
We use 60-grit pads to smooth the rough cooking surface.
.
We are constantly discovering new uses for our DA...
Great reflection on the whole experience - there really is nothing quite like taking some risks on a project and just going for it! Great video, as always, Mariah!
way to go with the heater. glad you got that done.
Bravo for taking on that heater install job on your own! I salute you homegirl!
You're doing good. Much respect.
I always thought that a box truck would make a great home on wheels ,more room,higher ceilings. And wider ,great job so far can’t wait to see the out come ❤
Man I admire your bravery. Seriously, what comes across in the videos is just fearlessness. I need to get off my ass and get working on my build. Watching you just reminds me that it doesn't have to be complex or difficult. You just have to think it through and keep doing it. Thanks for sharing.
You did it 🙌🏼🥳 amazing 🤩
You really looked relaxed doing the roof and heater. You help me think happy thoughts and I can tell your build will be just right for you, when you are done.
We need Finn Merch!! Love all your videos, they give me a sense of peace. Keep up the good work!
Even in moments of doubt, you totally have this project, and are majorly inspiring for everyone along this journey with you! Keep up the awesomeness pushing through and past all of the little hiccups along the way and doing things that you feel totally overwhelmed by. You are doing amazing!
So incouraged by your starting over. Having things simple and just enjoying a project. Thanks !!
Hi there! I’m a fairly new follower and find your journey from the van to this truck so awesome. Anyway, just wanted to add that when you’re time lapsing and talking/singing to yourself, it sounds just enough like the sims that I always get a good laugh.
Thanks for bringing us along on this journey!