I can relate to everything you say. I also live in a van full-time for the same reasons. I no longer feel stressed or depressed, and wish I'd have done it years ago. Am having an absolute blast.
wow - you did what I'm about to start ... same here, I have been so unhappy since my husband passed away 5 years ago. It was our dream to travel around Australia. I've just had a cancer diagnosis (serious, life threatening). But this too will pass. It's now been a couple of months of chemo, and I'm planning to go back home shortly. BUT I started to think - why am I going home? It's empty, I'm alone, I have no ties, it will just be the same with nothing changing & I will just get depressed again. But then I started to see these types of van life from people who were living my dream. DREAM? why should it be a dream? So then I started looking for caravans, realised that I didn't want to "tow" anything. Then I saw these lovely vans with self-builders. I thought this is what I want to do. I want to TRAVEL, I want this life style. Go where I want, when I want, stay where I want! I just went to a caravanning/camping show last week. I have put a deposit down on my motorhome (smallish), and next JUNE 2024, I will too go on my adventure! I have just subscribed to your channel.
I relate to this tenfold. I am in the beginning stages of planning to create a live-in studio on wheels solo with my two dogs. I have lived a thousand lives from corporate city chick to off grid feral and I know what works for me and what doesn't. I've found myself yet again trapped in a dead end relationship with an immature person who abuses the privilege of enmeshing their lives with another. i live in a house that I spend all my free time cleaning, organizing or tending to in a way that basically serves my partner and my landlord. My creativity is dead and my spirit is starving. I think people like us just operate differently and that can be so hard to express - you just have to do what works. I know what the freedom that you're living feels like and I am running as fast as I can towards it. Hope to see you on the road and can't wait to see your creative journey!
Good luck in getting to your best life. Great to see you know where things are not working. And a S.WO.T (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats to validate what you already know.
We are 66 and 73 respectively. We felt the same way. In 2018 we did the Camino de Santiago and walked the entire 800 km. It was such a freeing moment for us. We came back to Melbourne and downsized. We have a self converted campervan and we do our trips. Only we like having a base which allows us to come and go, camp and hike. Who knows, we might bump into each other.
Thank you for sharing your feelings. I believe nature truly feeds our souls. No matter how we choose to take our journey being our authentic selves is very important. So glad you have peace and joy as you venture around your beautiful country.
Don't apologise for the hair or birds. That's what comes from being outside in nature. Your in a van living van life, I prefer to see authenticity then the fake reality advertised by others that claim they live in a car or van full-time. Trust me your viewers will thank you for the authenticity. Ignore any trolls that criticise they don't have a fulfilled life. Misery loves company. Thank you for sharing your story. 🇬🇧
I know exactly what you mean about running on the hamster wheel. I wanted to buy an RV when I turned 65, but I'd given up my driver's licence, living in a big city with transit. My son convinced me I was too old, so I bought a little house, instead. I did get my licence, but my first minivan had an electrical fire and burnt up on the side of the highway. It took me six months to get a new second hand one. I have lovely neighbours and it's a nice little village, but I am not happy and my health is getting worse over the six years I've been in my house. I rarely go outside and have let the house and yard go. I can't afford a van, now that the prices have skyrocketed, but I have my Pontiac Montana and all the gear to go in it. I have tried to get my son to help me get the seats out, but he always has excuses not to. He doesn't want me to have my freedom, even when I told him I would keep the house as a home base. I have two 10 year old cats, and I worry they would be too confined in a minivan, but I can't give them up. So I watch TH-cam and hope I can, one day, get out there before I get too old or infirm to drive. Sorry for the moan, I really enjoy your channel and others that give me hopes and dreams for the future. Jon in rural BC, Canada
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I know. I'm going to force myself to walk to the post office and pause at the lookout to watch the river. If I can lose some more weight and gain some muscle, a lot of my health problems will improve and maybe I can get off some of my medications. There's a nice little campground on the other side of the river, that I'll visit. It's by donation, and has outhouses and picnic tables and the river. A day trip, even for an hour, is better than being cooped up. :) Baby steps are better than no steps at all. Jon in rural BC, Canada
Take the cats with you. If they love you as much as you do them they will put up with feeling crowded, if not , they'll run away. The choice is theirs.. Give it to them---maybe karmically they, too, have something to learn. AND teach your son to be a man, not a manipulator. Invite him over, hand him some tools, take yours, and start ripping out those seats. If he helps, blow him kisses, if not calmly take his tools and his mom down the road to her new life which she bought when she sold the house.
Hi Brenna. I'm in North America and just scrolling through videos at 4am. My soul is craving freedom and change and I like what you have to say about your reasons why. I'm curious why you would ever have to stop living this lifestyle short of health reasons. Are you feeling some pressure to be settled in one spot? I suspect besides your decrease in creativity you would also greatly miss moving with the changing seasons and weather. I feel like some of us in this world are meant to be always changing, and we can't grow if we aren't. I'm looking forward to the day my freedom from sticks and bricks comes. It will be like breaking out of my chrysalis. I'm going to keep watching your channel to see what happens in your life.
Hi Sara, I don't feel any pressure to stop living like this but I do ask myself every so often if I want to keep doing this. At the moment the answer is still yes. I have always said I will do this until I don't want to do it anymore.
Love the scenery. I did 9mths in 2019 in my caravan. It was the best time. I resonate with your words. I’m living in a house now and I’m not settled. I also travelled with two Dachshunds and they loved it too.
The fresh air in nature, the quietness, nature noises are normal. Always healty food and drinks with you. More time for yourself. Happy feeling. Enjoy it.
All your reasons are the same as mine only I'm not in a van yet! 27, single full time working mum in health care and I feel like my life is over sometimes. All I want to do is focus on my Art and writing and spend time in nature. My goal for the next two years is do up my own van and do it part time on holidays and weekends until my daughter is grown but know with complete certainty I will never be happy in a house. Keep doing you 💜 New Sub 💜
You have just made my day. Finally great Australian related material. I relate to everything you have said. I do not have a van, I am just starting out in my car. Thank you for your candid share of how you have felt.
Notice how Van City Van Life is spending more time at the shop. I think fulltime van life is not for everyone like me. I love my wife, my house, my neighbors, my Roadtrek camper van and my garage I can putz with my van. I love keeping busy, heck I even enjoy snowblowing the sidewalk for the whole block, go fat biking or cross country skiing, nature is all around us even in the city. Take care and good luck!
Lovely share thanQ....same for me....after 2 yrs full time in my MH ...online biz work as I go....it’s the nature and getting away from busy areas. Such a gift.
Omagosh I used to feel that way about my art. I wonder if it would come back to me if I lived in my camper van. So happy for you ! Can’t wait to see your art.
Hi Brenna, I agee, being in nature is the great healer. This morning Tim and I were on a morning walk and the fresh breeze lifted my spirit to begin the day. Thank you for another inspiring video. 🙂🐕
Hi Brenna, that was a great video. I too have watched Chrome and his trusty sidekick for quite some time as well as a couple of others. Great ideas and inspiring. I now live in a small town in Northern Ontario and love that I’m surrounded by nature. I can relate to the stress and tension of life on the hamster wheel. You absolutely sparkle talking about your decision to flip your lifestyle on its ear and do what’s best for you. I paint and draw as well and can’t wait to see your art in future videos.
Thanks Brenna for sharing. I think it is so fascinating seeing how much you have uncovered about yourself. Travel rewards us with adventures into unknown places as well as testing our own resolve and spirit in situations that the confines of a house or the rules of society can't - we learn that we have more strength, substance and resilience than we ever imagined possible. Discovering new places is awesome but discovering who we are is real freedom and the wonder of life. 🙂🧚♂🧚🧚♀
Fellow Aussie here. I can totally relate to everything you expressed in this video. I am a similar age, still working full time and feel totally despondent with the drudgery of my life as it is. I do own a small campervan which I try to get away in when I can and each time I do wish I could just keep going. One day I hope to be able to have the freedom to be able to do so and leave the hamster wheel behind.
I can identify with this more than words can say! Good for you girl! I'm subscribing and following now. Going to get my own plan started and stop waiting for tomorrow. I'm stressed, depressed, and desperate for a change.
I agree! Been living my caravan now for over a year for all the same reasons, and I'm still loving it. Nature is just the BEST ❤ thanks for doing this video, great too see there are some of my tribe out there - solo, independent and free xx
Wow! You just described how my life is now.. I too have the travel dream. I have written down a date on the back of my sunvisor in my car and it spurs me on every day.Thanks for your story. Travel safe.
Well done. That is similar to why I live on a house boat on the River Murray. I am not artistic but I hate crowds and this is one way to be in nature and the price and quiet. Enjoy your life for as long as you can.
I think you’re really living life to the fullest. Nothing beats nature. I love the idea of being away from it all. Nothing beats those quiet places away from everything. I think having a smallish van like yours makes it even easier.
Hi Brenna, I think you have made the right decision for you. As you know I am retired and I wanted a little bit of adventure before I get too old to do it. When I bought my van a few of my friends thought I was mad to leave my rental and live part time in a van and part time house minding but I just love it and don't regret it at all. I also find that when I am house sitting my creativity waines a bit. I am so inspired by you and so many other women who have taken the plunge to live outside the box. See you and Abbie down the road sometime eh. 🚘
Yep, Chrome started with nothing sleeping on the van floor. It was a horrible time when he lost his bulldog Disco. But he's come a long way with his then new little bulldog puppy and his van upgrades. I subscribe to him for over 5years now. I lived in my little GMC safari 5 months and now 3 years later I'm going back. Rent too high, awful stomping neighbors above allowed to harrass the senior living below, and no money. Hopefully, this month is my last month here so July I'll be once again back in my little old van. It needs fixing but with no rent or utilities, I'll have the money to do that. You may want to check out Bob Wells on van living. His tips on EVERYTHING one needs to know us on TH-cam. He started the now famous RTR out here in Quartzsite Arizona every January. You should find him totally fascinating!!❤❤❤
Thanks Brenna, great video. You're doing it for all the same reasons that I want to do it. Freedom, nature, creativity, inspiration, escaping the rat race. My plan is to have a van ready in a year or so, wish me luck!
I'm in the 'me too' club. My 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath house was so beautifully furnished that one person bought everything! I sold it and moved into a van, and I'm happier.
Hi Brenna I totally get where you are coming from... I want this lifestyle eventually also... I hate being stagnant... Love being in the elements of nature and the Australian landscape and flora and fauna is the best 💜💜💜... Blessings to you and your travels... Be true to yourself always 💜
I hear you, "trapped", "not living", "same ole, same ole". Scary things ahead, I am having my first trial run to Cairns and back in 10 days. I've been doing lovely office ventures daily, feeling my way, CottonTree, Currimundi lakes, Alexandra Headlands, Dulong look out, so beautiful. I would have loved to have sold my little unit in a retirement village but have been advised to keep it as I'm a bit older than you and body wearing out quicker than I would have liked.
Hi Brenna 👋 I started watching Bob wells and than I watched carolyns rv life, then I really thought I could do this. I felt trapped in my house too. Then I started watching Chrome in van city life and the cat lady rv life, Chrome and Emi travel in Canada and I learned a lot from them. I started my van life when I was 69, now I'm 71years young. I can relate to your story because that's how I felt but not now I'm enjoying my life traveling through the states. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
Hello Brenna, I just found your channel and subscribed right away. My husband and I are Canadian. In 1990 we spend close to 2 months in Australia, living in a van. We bought it when we arrived and sold it when we left. We did mainly the east cost and the south to Melbourne. You have a beautiful country. We have so many wonderful memories. I can understand why you love your life. One thing I want to apologize for is the amount of oil our van spitted in the air. When we bought it, we didn't realize it was going to need as much oil as gas. I'm very sorry about that. Some of my favorite time was spend with the little pigeons in the south. the diving with the beautiful fishes in the east and the birds in the woods. I can understand why you don't want to give it up. I know I will enjoy watching your older videos and the upcoming ones.
Thankyou, Brenna. l am so glad that you were led out of unhappiness, bit by bit, until you found what allows you to be Really You. I am so much happier here, in my cottage in a small country town, and l do not ever want to return to the city. I have created a big garden out of nothingness, but l do need to be reminded to get out in it just to enjoy it... not to "get things done". And when l do, even for a wee bit...l start to write stories, songs and poems again. Yep, there's something really important about connecting with the quietness and beauty of the natural world, that can't be replicated or replaced by anything else. Thank God. Love and hugs. Thankyou for this post. X0 👍❤ 🦘
I felt the same way and I’ve been much happier on my journey towards road life. It’s taken some time figuring everything out and getting everything needed. It’s taken me 2 years to get my hummer which was my dream vehicle and get a lot of the supplies needed to live on the road. My first road journey was for the freedom convoy. I slept in and lived out of my hummer for 23 days protesting freedom. It was a great wake up all and awesome shake up for my set up and my abilities. I own a painting company called Go Home Painting and this summer I’m building a trailer to go behind me. The plan is too have full washroom, sleep bunk for better comfort and a garage for all my work supplies. Once I have it complete I think I can go full time on the road and still run my business, which has been the hardest thing to figure out. This is why I have decided on a trailer instead of a van. I hope your enjoying yourself, God bless 🚛🇨🇦
You're an inspiration to me Brenna, and what you said has got me really asking some positive questions about my own life. Looking forward to your next video.
Love the video. I'm in Queensland and we certainly do have great winters here. I've been wanting to do a no build van build for a few years now. One day hopefully... I've been following Chrome & Cruz on TH-cam for about 3 years.
Yep. Chrome was my 1st youtube vanlife inspiration. My parents were my initial inspiration when they took off on what ended up being their final trip before mum had her stroke
Thanks for another great video, I too, “live my life in different places” I sold up and bought my MoHo not to travel Australia but to enjoy new beautiful places…..I am currently staying in the Daintree NQ……travelled up slowly from Hervey Bay…… Absolutely loving my life Solo with my Border Collie…..
Hello from NYC , love your videos. During covid I have watched hundreds of videos on van life and the minivan is the best chore for solo living . In America unfortunately there's a lot of seniors who were forced out of their home because they could no longer afford the costs and going into a nursing home would have been a catastrophe. Living in a minivan is the best solution and you can live quite nicely for a whole lot less .
You sound like the way I feel; trapped, depressed, unsettled in a house - which is nothing more than base camp I'm not attached to and more a burden, lonely. I do like having home base and not have worries about travel or where to park, mail, hauling water etc. I'm looking for an in-between life, if such even exists.
If you are willing to put in the effort, van life can be a great way to live. It is a great way to save money, travel the world, and connect with nature.
mirror mirror lol..i know exactly what you mean with the house trapping feeling and the countdown is on as soon as our sick van gets better) and the creativity at the moment wow..im lookng at everything in nature from a very different perspective now...clouds and trees and the formation and texture and which medium would suit it best ..right through to the very addictive zentangles ..love love love it. I've said this before , you are very inspirational Brenna ,thank you for sharing. Safe travels x
Lived in melb 25 yrs, refreshing to see outdoor footage when one doesn't have to do the obligatory aussie salute !! I may do the van life thingy before final stop at the nursing home.
Hi Brenna, found this video incredibly inspiring. You glowed all the way through filming, which made it wonderful to watch. So happy for you. If you find yourself travelling through the Northside of Brisbane in the Bay Area, Would love to catch up and buy you a coffee 😊 Lucinda
Hi Brenna. I just found your channel this morning...I've subscribed. Your an inspiration. Look forward to watching more...I too love art...spending time in nature...animals...and away from crowds...take care...x
I also found van life by looking at tiny homes because I wanted a cheaper way to live so I could enjoy life. I've always felt there was more to life than work, eat, sleep and repeat. I bought a van a few weeks ago but it will take me a couple of years to get there. But I know now there is a way out besides waiting until I'm too old to enjoy life. Happy trails!
That's exactly how I feel right now. I can't do this anymore. 65, still working full time. No savings! A life time of work and never able to save for retirement! I'm done! The cost of everything so high and I can't pay my bills on time anymore, ruining my credit. Thanks Biden for destroying the middle class! I think the only way to get out from under this stressful life is to stop paying rent and pay down debt and student loans, hence, vanlife! I'm looking at a van now. Still not sure if I can afford one. They want money down and I don't have that, but I do have a trade-in. Not sure I want a low clearance but watching some videos and yours, I guess it'll work. I'd much rather be able to stand up though. But I just can't do it anymore, this life. Thank you for your honesty. You are an inspiration as Chrome was an inspiration to you. He's also now feeling depressed and down and said he needs a new shiny project to get out of his rut. God bless you and stay safe ! Do 12:4612:46
Spiders. Try using peppermint oil and water mix in a spray bottle. It will get all bugs and spiders and mice and other flying insects out of your vehicle. Just spray it around. I love the aroma of it.
I cannot drive but would truly love to live in a van I do get my daily fix of nature by going to country areas and beach most days. So happy you found something that makes you happy. Look forward to seeing your creativity video❤
Wow. You are so articulate to express big feelings and concepts, thank you. You’ve described where I am at ..,the 4bdrm house etc I am formulating a plan. Your videos are so good.
I get the same thing with towns and cities, Brenna.. Complete overload which is why I’m preparing for vanlife.. I have autism and it’s just too overstimulating for me to the point I get sick physically and mentally.. I totally get it 💚🌿🌱🍃
Wonderful story Brenna! You are living the Aussie dream and I could tell that you are traveling around Queensland (Birds and bush) - we live in Toowoomba. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I’ve been looking at alternative ways of living mobile for the longest time, and have previously lived in a 5th wheeler (not mobile), a house truck, a camper, and of late, in my Toyota van as I move for work a lot. I think that some peeps think this is a new way of living but that is because there wasn’t TH-cam or instagram to show the world different options. However, I do like the no-build stories the best when I am following other journeys as that seems the most doable and accessible....and means that you can spend the biggest amount of your budget on a decent set of wheels. Love my wheels and the sense of freedom from being self sufficient.
Lovely to hear my perceived thoughts about van life coming out of an experienced dwellers mouth. I am yet to make it happen but am definite about the shift in lifestyle. I am a professional watercolour artist (pet portraits) and long to take my creativity further surrounded by nature. Thanks for sharing your life!
I lived in Alice Springs back in the late 80s for four years around the time when Tom Selleck was making the movie, Quigley down under I was sitting at the outback having dinner and he walked in. I can hardly eat my food after that just found your channel. It’s great thank you I also live in a Subaru Impreza full-time. It’s a bit small but it works. i’m in Texas right now heading out to California
I have a good job, a nice apartment and feel STUCK!!! I don't go anywhere or do anything because I just have no motivation to do it. I have a home 500 miles away (moved for the job) and it's just more money out the window every single month. So I just put it up for sale TODAY and am going to look at a van this weekend.
I started watching tiny homes too, then was guided over to minivans, but all I saw was so fancy and bigger, or they where sleeping like homeless in the backseat of their car, but then I came across lady bugout, and it suddenly became possible. Beautiful and small, but not too small. I do live in a cabin in nature, with beautiful green trees all around, just a few neighbor's. And I am trying to figure out how I can do vanlife, and still keep this place as a backup. Like renting it out.
Well ,You sure look like a happy person. I spent just a bit over 20 years snowbirding from home here 8n Canada to the southern states . But for 2 winters now I've stay in my house in Canada and I'm going crazy, bit by bit . Most of all I miss . . . . well everything you just said ,lol . 4 more years and I'll be on full pension and in those 4 years my plan is to be ready to transition back to freedom . Oh My God , , Freedom ....
New subscriber here. I look forward to seeing your art work. Re why you are in a van, you might enjoy the YT channel Max & Occy . Max just bought 5 acres after living the van life for 6 years. It’s in Northern New South Wales. Occy is a sweetie dog you will enjoy too. Enjoy the adventure and freedom.
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I’m so happy to hear that! He is terrific and I just LOVE Occy. I’m so happy for them that he found a most wonderful healing property.
What a wonderful and brave decision you have made for yourself!! I am so happy to hear your story and that you are so much happier having made a big leap! I am greatly looking forward to learning about the art you create! Happy camping, and may God keep you always safe!
Same here I am right along with you the way I feel I'm ready to sell my house I haven't been happy in my house I'm ready to move forward thank you for your encouraging words I'm glad it came across your channel❤
Good on you! We have nearly completed our 40ft coach. Prepping for registration here in Australia. We have 3 dogs and a bird and our bus is so, so comfortable. We cannot wait to start moving around and enjoying the sea, mountains, country etc. In case anyone wonders about internet, we have Starlink and there is nothing like it.
Hi Brenna... OMG this is me exactly. Wanting to get out of my house (i too live in my room and ignore the rest of my house) and I know I want to live in a van or SUV type car with my tiny dog. Why haven't I yet? Well I dont know. I'm getting my stuff together like power station, fridge, still need solar panels. I resonate with every thing you are saying... i feel best in nature, i feel the pull to live how you do. If i could live on a rural piece of land off grid in a tiny house thats my dream but I cant so the next best thing is to live a life of freedom on the road and in nature. That first step is hard as a single female and the unknown but my soul yearns for it... i ache to live a life like yours. Im about to sell my little hatchback and buy a bigger car/suv to start with for some silly reason driving a van on my own scares me. Start with local night trips, then weekend trips then week trips until I realise the fear of taking that first step to van life is unfounded and irrational. Gosh I admire you... you really are my inspiration Brenna. Im so grateful I found and follow you (in a non freaky weirdo way 😂). Im 53 today and have talked about living free on the road for about 3 years now... im determined to make it happen some how now my injuries and surgeries have healed (I was mauled by a dog). My hand was badly damaged making driving difficult so now thats mended as well as it can my dream starts... thats my plan, thats my souls yearning 🤞😊🌻
Sage, take a van for a test drive before you decide. I’m 70 and recently bought a Sprinter LWB Nomad van. Never driven anything as big as that but it didn’t take long to get used to it and I now really enjoy driving it. Get great views too. I’m starting out camping in the back yard until I get used to how things work. It’s great fun. Am looking forward to my first getaway. Will start in nearby places for 2-3 nights and work my way up as my confidence grows.
@@Tessienz Thankyou for your wonderful advice. Id have to buy an older used van... i cant afford a newer one at this stage in fact id have to sell my current used car which I love tp buy anything else so its a process 😊 good on you for getting your van and starting off in your yard. I have a tiny courtyard so ive booked a night away next week for 1 night in my current car just to see how I go. Im expecting to love it so then sell my car and get something bigger. If a van id be like Brenna a do a homely no build 😊 Let us know how your first adventure goes 😊🌻
Just found you as my regular nomad channels came up … yay! I am moving into my van very soon and doing a simple no build. I’m a new subscriber and am so looking forward to watching your content! Cheers from Alberta 🇨🇦 Canada!
Hope you are well, dear. Haven't seen a post, but I won't stop looking. Pray you are well. You ate so missed by so many. Hope Abby is well. Hope to see you soon. Stay well.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. I totally understand coming to that place of "enough of this" and doing something about it. Stay safe and TFS🧡
Your Van conversion in particular inspires me. Special because you have a low roof Van and you don't think that's a problem. Is it not? I am also thinking of buying a low roof Van to not stand out as a camer. ..Nature; Our essence is nature but we are lost in stories. In nature, we feel our essence more. Well, if you're open to it.
I hear you loud and clear 🙏 we have ordered our van to convert and will be living in it full time and work online in Australia 👍 hope to see you on the road
Well Brenna, you're living the dream that many people would love to live. Many of us get to a point in life that you did and its making that break, that change to eek out a happier life, as you have. I've felt as you did for a few years now and I know what I want to do, but unfortunately I've commitments and responsibilities I'm unable to walk away from. I'm dreaming of when I can and it'll come, I just have to be patient. All the best to you Brenna, a new subscriber here.
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I'm doing that Brenna and it's nature plus my two dogs that keep me going (so to speak). I wish I could just upsticks and live the freedom life I want, it's wanting to do it in another country that I'm unable to at the moment. It really wouldn't be suitable or fair for my beautiful but senior four legged best friends.
I can relate to everything you say. I also live in a van full-time for the same reasons. I no longer feel stressed or depressed, and wish I'd have done it years ago. Am having an absolute blast.
Great to hear someone else as happy as I am with this lifestyle 😊
How about a bathroom.?
@@anaysesancho3260 5 gallon bucket and garbage bags.
wow - you did what I'm about to start ... same here, I have been so unhappy since my husband passed away 5 years ago. It was our dream to travel around Australia. I've just had a cancer diagnosis (serious, life threatening). But this too will pass. It's now been a couple of months of chemo, and I'm planning to go back home shortly. BUT I started to think - why am I going home? It's empty, I'm alone, I have no ties, it will just be the same with nothing changing & I will just get depressed again. But then I started to see these types of van life from people who were living my dream. DREAM? why should it be a dream? So then I started looking for caravans, realised that I didn't want to "tow" anything. Then I saw these lovely vans with self-builders. I thought this is what I want to do. I want to TRAVEL, I want this life style. Go where I want, when I want, stay where I want! I just went to a caravanning/camping show last week. I have put a deposit down on my motorhome (smallish), and next JUNE 2024, I will too go on my adventure! I have just subscribed to your channel.
How exciting for your future travels 😊
That is so awesome! Do your best life now. Sorry about your husband and your diagnosis. I hope you have the best time ever. Hugs from the US.
Sounds like a wonderful plan!! You are an inspiration and I wish you much excitement, good health and happiness on you travels next June!😘
I relate to this tenfold. I am in the beginning stages of planning to create a live-in studio on wheels solo with my two dogs. I have lived a thousand lives from corporate city chick to off grid feral and I know what works for me and what doesn't. I've found myself yet again trapped in a dead end relationship with an immature person who abuses the privilege of enmeshing their lives with another. i live in a house that I spend all my free time cleaning, organizing or tending to in a way that basically serves my partner and my landlord. My creativity is dead and my spirit is starving. I think people like us just operate differently and that can be so hard to express - you just have to do what works. I know what the freedom that you're living feels like and I am running as fast as I can towards it. Hope to see you on the road and can't wait to see your creative journey!
See you on the road 🤗
Good luck in getting to your best life. Great to see you know where things are not working. And a S.WO.T (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats to validate what you already know.
Never apologize for birds! 😄🐦
We are 66 and 73 respectively. We felt the same way. In 2018 we did the Camino de Santiago and walked the entire 800 km. It was such a freeing moment for us. We came back to Melbourne and downsized. We have a self converted campervan and we do our trips. Only we like having a base which allows us to come and go, camp and hike. Who knows, we might bump into each other.
Would love to see you on the road. I have bumped into viewers where they least expect to find me😊
Thank you for sharing your feelings. I believe nature truly feeds our souls. No matter how we choose to take our journey being our authentic selves is very important. So glad you have peace and joy as you venture around your beautiful country.
Nature plays a big role in me being my authentic self 😊
Don't apologise for the hair or birds. That's what comes from being outside in nature. Your in a van living van life, I prefer to see authenticity then the fake reality advertised by others that claim they live in a car or van full-time. Trust me your viewers will thank you for the authenticity. Ignore any trolls that criticise they don't have a fulfilled life. Misery loves company.
Thank you for sharing your story. 🇬🇧
Thanks 😊
Nature has a healing effect for humans, peaceful and calming and grounding barefoot heals humans.
I know exactly what you mean about running on the hamster wheel. I wanted to buy an RV when I turned 65, but I'd given up my driver's licence, living in a big city with transit. My son convinced me I was too old, so I bought a little house, instead. I did get my licence, but my first minivan had an electrical fire and burnt up on the side of the highway. It took me six months to get a new second hand one.
I have lovely neighbours and it's a nice little village, but I am not happy and my health is getting worse over the six years I've been in my house. I rarely go outside and have let the house and yard go. I can't afford a van, now that the prices have skyrocketed, but I have my Pontiac Montana and all the gear to go in it. I have tried to get my son to help me get the seats out, but he always has excuses not to. He doesn't want me to have my freedom, even when I told him I would keep the house as a home base.
I have two 10 year old cats, and I worry they would be too confined in a minivan, but I can't give them up. So I watch TH-cam and hope I can, one day, get out there before I get too old or infirm to drive.
Sorry for the moan, I really enjoy your channel and others that give me hopes and dreams for the future.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Hi Jon, just getting out in your garden is better than nothing. 😊
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I know. I'm going to force myself to walk to the post office and pause at the lookout to watch the river.
If I can lose some more weight and gain some muscle, a lot of my health problems will improve and maybe I can get off some of my medications.
There's a nice little campground on the other side of the river, that I'll visit. It's by donation, and has outhouses and picnic tables and the river. A day trip, even for an hour, is better than being cooped up. :)
Baby steps are better than no steps at all.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Take the cats with you. If they love you as much as you do them they will put up with feeling crowded, if not , they'll run away. The choice is theirs.. Give it to them---maybe karmically they, too, have something to learn. AND teach your son to be a man, not a manipulator. Invite him over, hand him some tools, take yours, and start ripping out those seats. If he helps, blow him kisses, if not calmly take his tools and his mom down the road to her new life which she bought when she sold the house.
Sounds as if your son being selfish..show him this video ! and tell him you really need a change in life, good luck , let us know how you get on
Try some short trips first and after you have you can pay neighbor to take your seats out.
Hi Brenna. I'm in North America and just scrolling through videos at 4am. My soul is craving freedom and change and I like what you have to say about your reasons why. I'm curious why you would ever have to stop living this lifestyle short of health reasons. Are you feeling some pressure to be settled in one spot? I suspect besides your decrease in creativity you would also greatly miss moving with the changing seasons and weather. I feel like some of us in this world are meant to be always changing, and we can't grow if we aren't. I'm looking forward to the day my freedom from sticks and bricks comes. It will be like breaking out of my chrysalis. I'm going to keep watching your channel to see what happens in your life.
Hi Sara, I don't feel any pressure to stop living like this but I do ask myself every so often if I want to keep doing this. At the moment the answer is still yes. I have always said I will do this until I don't want to do it anymore.
Same is my enemy. Wherever I am I tire of it quickly, and always looking to see what's on the other side of that hill.
Love the scenery. I did 9mths in 2019 in my caravan. It was the best time. I resonate with your words. I’m living in a house now and I’m not settled. I also travelled with two Dachshunds and they loved it too.
The fresh air in nature, the quietness, nature noises are normal. Always healty food and drinks with you. More time for yourself. Happy feeling. Enjoy it.
So true!
First class presentation…at 84 I can’t do van life but I can do a few days at a time. The appeal of van living is evident to me.
Chrome from Vancity Vanlife was my inspiration too! From the early days with Disco ❤️.
I think he has inspired a lot of people.😊
All your reasons are the same as mine only I'm not in a van yet! 27, single full time working mum in health care and I feel like my life is over sometimes. All I want to do is focus on my Art and writing and spend time in nature. My goal for the next two years is do up my own van and do it part time on holidays and weekends until my daughter is grown but know with complete certainty I will never be happy in a house. Keep doing you 💜 New Sub 💜
Love the sound of those birds.
You have just made my day. Finally great Australian related material. I relate to everything you have said. I do not have a van, I am just starting out in my car. Thank you for your candid share of how you have felt.
Welcome aboard!
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully Thank you,
Thank you for sharing. Your outlook and videos are refreshing, honest, down to earth and insparational.
You are so welcome
Notice how Van City Van Life is spending more time at the shop. I think fulltime van life is not for everyone like me. I love my wife, my house, my neighbors, my Roadtrek camper van and my garage I can putz with my van. I love keeping busy, heck I even enjoy snowblowing the sidewalk for the whole block, go fat biking or cross country skiing, nature is all around us even in the city. Take care and good luck!
Thanks 😊
Lovely share thanQ....same for me....after 2 yrs full time in my MH ...online biz work as I go....it’s the nature and getting away from busy areas. Such a gift.
We are so lucky.
Omagosh I used to feel that way about my art. I wonder if it would come back to me if I lived in my camper van. So happy for you ! Can’t wait to see your art.
Thanks 😊
Hi Brenna, I agee, being in nature is the great healer. This morning Tim and I were on a morning walk and the fresh breeze lifted my spirit to begin the day. Thank you for another inspiring video. 🙂🐕
Thanks for sharing!!
Hi Brenna, that was a great video. I too have watched Chrome and his trusty sidekick for quite some time as well as a couple of others. Great ideas and inspiring. I now live in a small town in Northern Ontario and love that I’m surrounded by nature. I can relate to the stress and tension of life on the hamster wheel. You absolutely sparkle talking about your decision to flip your lifestyle on its ear and do what’s best for you. I paint and draw as well and can’t wait to see your art in future videos.
I can picture in my mind how beautiful it must be where you are living 😍
I know Chrome too... Such a nice guy.. He tells the real things about this way of life ! ♥
Thanks Brenna for sharing. I think it is so fascinating seeing how much you have uncovered about yourself. Travel rewards us with adventures into unknown places as well as testing our own resolve and spirit in situations that the confines of a house or the rules of society can't - we learn that we have more strength, substance and resilience than we ever imagined possible. Discovering new places is awesome but discovering who we are is real freedom and the wonder of life. 🙂🧚♂🧚🧚♀
It really is!
My "why" is exactly your "why"! Wouldn't/ Couldn't live any other way! 3 years full time in my minivan❤
Love that!
The best stories, the best life and so very interesting, thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it
Fellow Aussie here. I can totally relate to everything you expressed in this video. I am a similar age, still working full time and feel totally despondent with the drudgery of my life as it is. I do own a small campervan which I try to get away in when I can and each time I do wish I could just keep going. One day I hope to be able to have the freedom to be able to do so and leave the hamster wheel behind.
Thanks for sharing!
I can identify with this more than words can say! Good for you girl! I'm subscribing and following now. Going to get my own plan started and stop waiting for tomorrow. I'm stressed, depressed, and desperate for a change.
You can do it 😊
I’m in the same cage or same ride for so long
I agree! Been living my caravan now for over a year for all the same reasons, and I'm still loving it. Nature is just the BEST ❤ thanks for doing this video, great too see there are some of my tribe out there - solo, independent and free xx
Couldn't agree more!
I'm doing it for the same reason in Australia in a Toyota hiace 2007. 3 months in, and it's pretty awesome I'm heading south for summer
I'm an older woman and this is my dream. I have actually started looking into it.
Go for it!
Wow! You just described how my life is now.. I too have the travel dream.
I have written down a date on the back of my sunvisor in my car and it spurs me on every day.Thanks for your story. Travel safe.
Sounds great!
Well done. That is similar to why I live on a house boat on the River Murray. I am not artistic but I hate crowds and this is one way to be in nature and the price and quiet. Enjoy your life for as long as you can.
Another awesome way to get into nature 😊
.........................Trenorden, you're living my dream.
I think you’re really living life to the fullest. Nothing beats nature. I love the idea of being away from it all. Nothing beats those quiet places away from everything. I think having a smallish van like yours makes it even easier.
I am enjoying the simplicity of my life at the moment 😊
Hi Brenna, I think you have made the right decision for you. As you know I am retired and I wanted a little bit of adventure before I get too old to do it. When I bought my van a few of my friends thought I was mad to leave my rental and live part time in a van and part time house minding but I just love it and don't regret it at all. I also find that when I am house sitting my creativity waines a bit. I am so inspired by you and so many other women who have taken the plunge to live outside the box. See you and Abbie down the road sometime eh. 🚘
Would love to catch up again 😊
So pleased I've found your channel! 😀 New subscriber from Cumbria, UK.
Welcome!!
Yep, Chrome started with nothing sleeping on the van floor. It was a horrible time when he lost his bulldog Disco. But he's come a long way with his then new little bulldog puppy and his van upgrades. I subscribe to him for over 5years now. I lived in my little GMC safari 5 months and now 3 years later I'm going back. Rent too high, awful stomping neighbors above allowed to harrass the senior living below, and no money. Hopefully, this month is my last month here so July I'll be once again back in my little old van. It needs fixing but with no rent or utilities, I'll have the money to do that. You may want to check out Bob Wells on van living. His tips on EVERYTHING one needs to know us on TH-cam. He started the now famous RTR out here in Quartzsite Arizona every January. You should find him totally fascinating!!❤❤❤
Thanks, I have also watched Bob Wells for years 😊
Thanks Brenna, great video. You're doing it for all the same reasons that I want to do it. Freedom, nature, creativity, inspiration, escaping the rat race.
My plan is to have a van ready in a year or so, wish me luck!
Love that!
I'm in the 'me too' club. My 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath house was so beautifully furnished that one person bought everything! I sold it and moved into a van, and I'm happier.
Love it!!
When you said 100 percent self built I hit subscribe.
Welcome 🤗
Hi Brenna
I totally get where you are coming from... I want this lifestyle eventually also... I hate being stagnant... Love being in the elements of nature and the Australian landscape and flora and fauna is the best 💜💜💜... Blessings to you and your travels... Be true to yourself always 💜
Thanks Brandee😊
I hear you, "trapped", "not living", "same ole, same ole". Scary things ahead, I am having my first trial run to Cairns and back in 10 days. I've been doing lovely office ventures daily, feeling my way, CottonTree, Currimundi lakes, Alexandra Headlands, Dulong look out, so beautiful. I would have loved to have sold my little unit in a retirement village but have been advised to keep it as I'm a bit older than you and body wearing out quicker than I would have liked.
You got this 😊
Hi Brenna 👋 I started watching Bob wells and than I watched carolyns rv life, then I really thought I could do this. I felt trapped in my house too. Then I started watching Chrome in van city life and the cat lady rv life, Chrome and Emi travel in Canada and I learned a lot from them. I started my van life when I was 69, now I'm 71years young. I can relate to your story because that's how I felt but not now I'm enjoying my life traveling through the states. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
Thank you Brenna. You really got me.
You’re welcome 😊
Thanks!
Welcome!
We are now in our 8th month ...FREEDOM... truly best way to live. Love your videos ❤
Love it!!
I’m a fan of Chrome too. 💙Qld has winter for a couple of weeks. I’m pleased you enjoy it here in my home state. Don’t give up the life you love. 👍🏻
I love it!
Hello Brenna, I just found your channel and subscribed right away.
My husband and I are Canadian. In 1990 we spend close to 2 months in Australia, living in a van. We bought it when we arrived and sold it when we left. We did mainly the east cost and the south to Melbourne. You have a beautiful country. We have so many wonderful memories. I can understand why you love your life.
One thing I want to apologize for is the amount of oil our van spitted in the air. When we bought it, we didn't realize it was going to need as much oil as gas. I'm very sorry about that.
Some of my favorite time was spend with the little pigeons in the south. the diving with the beautiful fishes in the east and the birds in the woods. I can understand why you don't want to give it up.
I know I will enjoy watching your older videos and the upcoming ones.
Welcome 🤗
Hello I'm a new subscriber,👏 Your videos are so natural, Authentic &packed with hacks,tips, information please keep going🎉❤🎉
Thank you so much 😊
Thankyou, Brenna. l am so glad that you were led out of unhappiness, bit by bit, until you found what allows you to be Really You. I am so much happier here, in my cottage in a small country town, and l do not ever want to return to the city. I have created a big garden out of nothingness, but l do need to be reminded to get out in it just to enjoy it... not to "get things done". And when l do, even for a wee bit...l start to write stories, songs and poems again. Yep, there's something really important about connecting with the quietness and beauty of the natural world, that can't be replicated or replaced by anything else. Thank God. Love and hugs. Thankyou for this post. X0 👍❤ 🦘
Your garden sounds wonderful 🥰
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully And I bet your garden likes to hear your stories, songs and poems. I would.
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully Thankyou! ❤
@@uanditopia2239 😁👍
I felt the same way and I’ve been much happier on my journey towards road life. It’s taken some time figuring everything out and getting everything needed. It’s taken me 2 years to get my hummer which was my dream vehicle and get a lot of the supplies needed to live on the road. My first road journey was for the freedom convoy. I slept in and lived out of my hummer for 23 days protesting freedom. It was a great wake up all and awesome shake up for my set up and my abilities. I own a painting company called Go Home Painting and this summer I’m building a trailer to go behind me. The plan is too have full washroom, sleep bunk for better comfort and a garage for all my work supplies. Once I have it complete I think I can go full time on the road and still run my business, which has been the hardest thing to figure out. This is why I have decided on a trailer instead of a van. I hope your enjoying yourself, God bless 🚛🇨🇦
I like your plan and how you have worked out what works best for you 😊
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully 🙏🫶
You're an inspiration to me Brenna, and what you said has got me really asking some positive questions about my own life. Looking forward to your next video.
I'm so glad!
Love the video.
I'm in Queensland and we certainly do have great winters here.
I've been wanting to do a no build van build for a few years now. One day hopefully...
I've been following Chrome & Cruz on TH-cam for about 3 years.
Go for it!
Yep. Chrome was my 1st youtube vanlife inspiration. My parents were my initial inspiration when they took off on what ended up being their final trip before mum had her stroke
Glad your mom got one last trip 😊
Nature is very healing and calming.
😊
Thanks for another great video, I too, “live my life in different places”
I sold up and bought my MoHo not to travel Australia but to enjoy new beautiful places…..I am currently staying in the Daintree NQ……travelled up slowly from Hervey Bay……
Absolutely loving my life Solo with my Border Collie…..
Sounds great!
Hello from NYC , love your videos. During covid I have watched hundreds of videos on van life and the minivan is the best chore for solo living . In America unfortunately there's a lot of seniors who were forced out of their home because they could no longer afford the costs and going into a nursing home would have been a catastrophe. Living in a minivan is the best solution and you can live quite nicely for a whole lot less .
It can definitely be cheaper
Thanks for sharing your journey Brenna. I actually bought a set of plastic drawers to install in my van after seeing yours😂
So simple and works so well 👍
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully and keeps the weight down too.
You sound like the way I feel; trapped, depressed, unsettled in a house - which is nothing more than base camp I'm not attached to and more a burden, lonely. I do like having home base and not have worries about travel or where to park, mail, hauling water etc. I'm looking for an in-between life, if such even exists.
Best wishes 😊🤗
If you are willing to put in the effort, van life can be a great way to live. It is a great way to save money, travel the world, and connect with nature.
I agree it’s not always easy but very rewarding 😊
mirror mirror lol..i know exactly what you mean with the house trapping feeling and the countdown is on as soon as our sick van gets better) and the creativity at the moment wow..im lookng at everything in nature from a very different perspective now...clouds and trees and the formation and texture and which medium would suit it best ..right through to the very addictive zentangles ..love love love it. I've said this before , you are very inspirational Brenna ,thank you for sharing. Safe travels x
Here’s hoping your sick van gets better soon 😊
Lived in melb 25 yrs, refreshing to see outdoor footage when one doesn't have to do the obligatory aussie salute !! I may do the van life thingy before final stop at the nursing home.
Why not??🧐
Hi Brenna, found this video incredibly inspiring. You glowed all the way through filming, which made it wonderful to watch. So happy for you. If you find yourself travelling through the Northside of Brisbane in the Bay Area, Would love to catch up and buy you a coffee 😊 Lucinda
Thank you so much!
Hello from South Alabama here in America. Love and light to all ❤. I am a nomad myself.
Hello there!
Hi Brenna. I just found your channel this morning...I've subscribed. Your an inspiration. Look forward to watching more...I too love art...spending time in nature...animals...and away from crowds...take care...x
Welcome!!
You have an interesting accent - half Australian, half American! (I'm Australian) Your dog is cute - best wishes for your 'natural' life!
Thank you! 😃
I also found van life by looking at tiny homes because I wanted a cheaper way to live so I could enjoy life. I've always felt there was more to life than work, eat, sleep and repeat. I bought a van a few weeks ago but it will take me a couple of years to get there. But I know now there is a way out besides waiting until I'm too old to enjoy life. Happy trails!
That is awesome!
That's exactly how I feel right now. I can't do this anymore. 65, still working full time. No savings! A life time of work and never able to save for retirement! I'm done! The cost of everything so high and I can't pay my bills on time anymore, ruining my credit. Thanks Biden for destroying the middle class!
I think the only way to get out from under this stressful life is to stop paying rent and pay down debt and student loans, hence, vanlife! I'm looking at a van now. Still not sure if I can afford one. They want money down and I don't have that, but I do have a trade-in. Not sure I want a low clearance but watching some videos and yours, I guess it'll work. I'd much rather be able to stand up though.
But I just can't do it anymore, this life.
Thank you for your honesty. You are an inspiration as Chrome was an inspiration to you. He's also now feeling depressed and down and said he needs a new shiny project to get out of his rut.
God bless you and stay safe ! Do 12:46 12:46
All the best to you 😊
Spiders. Try using peppermint oil and water mix in a spray bottle. It will get all bugs and spiders and mice and other flying insects out of your vehicle. Just spray it around. I love the aroma of it.
Thanks for the tips!
I cannot drive but would truly love to live in a van
I do get my daily fix of nature by going to country areas and beach most days. So happy you found something that makes you happy. Look forward to seeing your creativity video❤
Love that!
Wow. You are so articulate to express big feelings and concepts, thank you. You’ve described where I am at ..,the 4bdrm house etc
I am formulating a plan. Your videos are so good.
You are so welcome
I’m so scared I would be lonely….but it looks wonderful!
The TH-cam algos bought me here and I am glad. I really enjoyed this video. Subscribed.
Welcome aboard!
I get the same thing with towns and cities, Brenna.. Complete overload which is why I’m preparing for vanlife..
I have autism and it’s just too overstimulating for me to the point I get sick physically and mentally..
I totally get it 💚🌿🌱🍃
I wish you all the best 😊
Wonderful story Brenna! You are living the Aussie dream and I could tell that you are traveling around Queensland (Birds and bush) - we live in Toowoomba. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Yes I am!
I’ve been looking at alternative ways of living mobile for the longest time, and have previously lived in a 5th wheeler (not mobile), a house truck, a camper, and of late, in my Toyota van as I move for work a lot. I think that some peeps think this is a new way of living but that is because there wasn’t TH-cam or instagram to show the world different options. However, I do like the no-build stories the best when I am following other journeys as that seems the most doable and accessible....and means that you can spend the biggest amount of your budget on a decent set of wheels. Love my wheels and the sense of freedom from being self sufficient.
I agree this lifestyle isn’t new. We had a Combi campervan when I was a kid 😊
Lovely to hear my perceived thoughts about van life coming out of an experienced dwellers mouth. I am yet to make it happen but am definite about the shift in lifestyle. I am a professional watercolour artist (pet portraits) and long to take my creativity further surrounded by nature. Thanks for sharing your life!
Best of luck!
You only have to post the first 30 seconds to tell the stories. A lovely life. ❤.
Wow, thank you
Hi Brenna..i from Malaysia 🇲🇾 Kuala Lumpur.. first time follow your TH-cam channel.😅 enjoy your day ok 👌 TQ nice sharing
Thank you! You too!
I lived in Alice Springs back in the late 80s for four years around the time when Tom Selleck was making the movie, Quigley down under I was sitting at the outback having dinner and he walked in. I can hardly eat my food after that just found your channel. It’s great thank you I also live in a Subaru Impreza full-time. It’s a bit small but it works. i’m in Texas right now heading out to California
What a cool experience.
I have a good job, a nice apartment and feel STUCK!!! I don't go anywhere or do anything because I just have no motivation to do it. I have a home 500 miles away (moved for the job) and it's just more money out the window every single month. So I just put it up for sale TODAY and am going to look at a van this weekend.
Love that!
Appreciate seeing and hearing from someone like yourself that is just a real honest person 👍
Thanks
I started watching tiny homes too, then was guided over to minivans, but all I saw was so fancy and bigger, or they where sleeping like homeless in the backseat of their car, but then I came across lady bugout, and it suddenly became possible.
Beautiful and small, but not too small.
I do live in a cabin in nature, with beautiful green trees all around, just a few neighbor's. And I am trying to figure out how I can do vanlife, and still keep this place as a backup.
Like renting it out.
A small cabin sounds wonderful 😊
Your cool. Keep going forward!
Thanks, will do!
Well ,You sure look like a happy person.
I spent just a bit over 20 years snowbirding from home here 8n Canada to the southern states . But for 2 winters now I've stay in my house in Canada and I'm going crazy, bit by bit . Most of all I miss . . . . well everything you just said ,lol . 4 more years and I'll be on full pension and in those 4 years my plan is to be ready to transition back to freedom . Oh My God , , Freedom ....
Good luck 😊
Looking forward to your next video about your creative processes.💕
Thank you so much!
New subscriber here. I look forward to seeing your art work. Re why you are in a van, you might enjoy the YT channel Max & Occy . Max just bought 5 acres after living the van life for 6 years. It’s in Northern New South Wales. Occy is a sweetie dog you will enjoy too.
Enjoy the adventure and freedom.
Yes, I have been watching Max since he first started with Lee.
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I’m so happy to hear that! He is terrific and I just LOVE Occy. I’m so happy for them that he found a most wonderful healing property.
You are such an inspiration, Brenna. 😊
Thanks Sharon😊
What a wonderful and brave decision you have made for yourself!! I am so happy to hear your story and that you are so much happier having made a big leap! I am greatly looking forward to learning about the art you create! Happy camping, and may God keep you always safe!
Thank you so much!
Same here I am right along with you the way I feel I'm ready to sell my house I haven't been happy in my house I'm ready to move forward thank you for your encouraging words I'm glad it came across your channel❤
I understand
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Good on you! We have nearly completed our 40ft coach. Prepping for registration here in Australia. We have 3 dogs and a bird and our bus is so, so comfortable. We cannot wait to start moving around and enjoying the sea, mountains, country etc. In case anyone wonders about internet, we have Starlink and there is nothing like it.
How exciting 😊
All great reasons why and still why 😊
Hi Brenna... OMG this is me exactly. Wanting to get out of my house (i too live in my room and ignore the rest of my house) and I know I want to live in a van or SUV type car with my tiny dog. Why haven't I yet? Well I dont know. I'm getting my stuff together like power station, fridge, still need solar panels. I resonate with every thing you are saying... i feel best in nature, i feel the pull to live how you do. If i could live on a rural piece of land off grid in a tiny house thats my dream but I cant so the next best thing is to live a life of freedom on the road and in nature. That first step is hard as a single female and the unknown but my soul yearns for it... i ache to live a life like yours. Im about to sell my little hatchback and buy a bigger car/suv to start with for some silly reason driving a van on my own scares me. Start with local night trips, then weekend trips then week trips until I realise the fear of taking that first step to van life is unfounded and irrational. Gosh I admire you... you really are my inspiration Brenna. Im so grateful I found and follow you (in a non freaky weirdo way 😂). Im 53 today and have talked about living free on the road for about 3 years now... im determined to make it happen some how now my injuries and surgeries have healed (I was mauled by a dog). My hand was badly damaged making driving difficult so now thats mended as well as it can my dream starts... thats my plan, thats my souls yearning 🤞😊🌻
Sage, take a van for a test drive before you decide. I’m 70 and recently bought a Sprinter LWB Nomad van. Never driven anything as big as that but it didn’t take long to get used to it and I now really enjoy driving it. Get great views too. I’m starting out camping in the back yard until I get used to how things work. It’s great fun. Am looking forward to my first getaway. Will start in nearby places for 2-3 nights and work my way up as my confidence grows.
Happy birthday 🥳 Small steps can turn into a long journey, keep going and don’t give up 😊
Great advice
@@Tessienz Thankyou for your wonderful advice. Id have to buy an older used van... i cant afford a newer one at this stage in fact id have to sell my current used car which I love tp buy anything else so its a process 😊 good on you for getting your van and starting off in your yard. I have a tiny courtyard so ive booked a night away next week for 1 night in my current car just to see how I go. Im expecting to love it so then sell my car and get something bigger. If a van id be like Brenna a do a homely no build 😊 Let us know how your first adventure goes 😊🌻
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully very true 😊 id love to buy a used van and do a homely no build like yours. Your van is perfection to me 😊🌻
Just found you as my regular nomad channels came up … yay! I am moving into my van very soon and doing a simple no build. I’m a new subscriber and am so looking forward to watching your content! Cheers from Alberta 🇨🇦 Canada!
Welcome aboard!
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully thank you!
Hope you are well, dear. Haven't seen a post, but I won't stop looking. Pray you are well. You ate so missed by so many. Hope Abby is well. Hope to see you soon. Stay well.
All good
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings. I totally understand coming to that place of "enough of this" and doing something about it. Stay safe and TFS🧡
You are so welcome!
Your Van conversion in particular inspires me. Special because you have a low roof Van and you don't think that's a problem. Is it not? I am also thinking of buying a low roof Van to not stand out as a camer. ..Nature; Our essence is nature but we are lost in stories. In nature, we feel our essence more. Well, if you're open to it.
So well put, “our essence is nature “ 😍
I hear you loud and clear 🙏 we have ordered our van to convert and will be living in it full time and work online in Australia 👍 hope to see you on the road
Wonderful!
Well Brenna, you're living the dream that many people would love to live.
Many of us get to a point in life that you did and its making that break, that change to eek out a happier life, as you have.
I've felt as you did for a few years now and I know what I want to do, but unfortunately I've commitments and responsibilities I'm unable to walk away from.
I'm dreaming of when I can and it'll come, I just have to be patient.
All the best to you Brenna, a new subscriber here.
Welcome, I recommend trying to find something that brings you a little joy each day, just a short walk in nature can make a difference 😊
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully
I'm doing that Brenna and it's nature plus my two dogs that keep me going (so to speak).
I wish I could just upsticks and live the freedom life I want, it's wanting to do it in another country that I'm unable to at the moment. It really wouldn't be suitable or fair for my beautiful but senior four legged best friends.