Life is an amazing journey. Here we share our experiences on the open road. Come along for the ride.
Turning the Page
Life has a way of humbling you — and teaching you — all at once. After loss, failure, and a few unexpected detours, I’ve learned that starting over isn’t the end of the story; it’s just another chapter. This post is a reflection on finding wisdom through adversity, the quiet strength that comes from being stripped down to the essentials, and the simple truth that even when all we have left is hope — it’s enough to keep turning the pages.
Van Update: A Little Good, A Little Bad
After months of setbacks, the van finally roared back to life — a sound we’ve been waiting to hear for far too long. The rebuilt engine is running strong, but a stubborn emissions issue still stands between us and the open road. Here’s where the journey takes us next.
Rain in San Diego?
It rained today in San Diego—or at least, that’s what the weather app claimed. In reality, calling it rain might be a stretch; it was more like the sky decided to test out its mister setting. Just enough moisture to dot the windshield and make the air smell fresh, but not enough to justify an umbrella.
San Diego Vibes
There has not been much to update with the van. We are still waiting on parts this time a couple of gaskets needed to put the engine back together - but that does not mean there is nothing going on.
Engine Installed
As of Sunday, July 27, the rebuilt engine is finally back where it belongs—under the hood! This is a huge milestone and a major step forward for the van. But of course, in true vanlife fashion, there’s a catch: we’re once again delayed, this time due to missing parts.
Back in San Diego
It’s been a wild ride this week—amazing in moments, but honestly, pretty discouraging overall.
For months, I’ve been told that the van would be ready for pickup on June 20th. So I made the call: sold the RV, rented a box truck, packed everything I’d need, and made the 1,000-mile drive from Southern Oregon—where Ruby and I spent most of the winter and spring—back down to San Diego.
Van Life Update
Last time, Georgia (the van) wouldn't start, leaving us stranded in San Diego. After a week of waiting for a dealership, I found a local shop that let me stay on-site while they worked on the van, thanks to a recommendation from another nomad. With Collin's help, I moved the van to a nearby spot, and the next day, we were towed to the mechanic.
Visiting Belmont
With all the chaos going on right now, we decided to have a little bit of fun it went down to Belmont Park and Mission Beach for sunset. Ruby loved watching the amusement park rides. And the bubbles was a great treat.
Stranded in Paradise
Hi, friends! As you likely know, Ruby and I have been loving life on the road as full-time van lifers, and we recently made it to beautiful San Diego. Unfortunately, we hit a bit of a snag—our van has developed some mechanical issues. With the holiday, it’ll be a few days before we can get it into the shop.