Life is an amazing journey. Here we share our experiences on the open road. Come along for the ride.
Merry Christmas
This year didn’t go as planned — but it brought perspective, gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope. A Christmas reflection from the open road, centered on community, resilience, and what truly matters.
Stuck Between Gears
Another pause on the road has brought Ruby and me back to Southern Oregon, where stalled repairs and warranty delays have tested our patience. While the van sits, life continues—through family support, familiar faces, and steady progress behind the scenes.
The Transmission Failed. The Journey Didn’t.
We made it to Thanksgiving, but not home. Stranded in Arvin, California with a whining engine and a seized transmission plug, Ruby and I found ourselves bouncing between tow trucks, dealerships, fogged-in solar, and unexpected kindness. This is the story of how a blown transmission pushed us off course — and still led us back home.
Beautiful People
This Thanksgiving week reminded me just how many beautiful people are out there. From a tow truck driver pushing through intense pain, to a service crew who worked with heart, to two friends whose generosity changed everything — their kindness carried Ruby and me through breakdowns, uncertainty, and the long miles north.
Limp Mode Living
Another week in limp mode meant late-night moves through quiet streets, uncertainty with a missing mechanic, and searching for a way forward. But in the middle of it all came a few unexpected moments of kindness that reminded us we’re not alone on this road.
A Long Detour
Ruby and I are still moving through this long detour — one day, one step at a time. But even in the hard moments, a few good things have come our way lately, and I want to say thank you.
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.