Embracing Van Life: A Journey of Less and More
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Chapter 1: My Life on Wheels
Hello! I'm Franki, and I enjoy a rent-free lifestyle in my compact campervan. At the age of 50, I made the bold decision to embark on a journey across the United States, living in a van.
The experience has been quite an adventure. Most days are enjoyable, while others can be challenging, and a few are downright chaotic! Cold weather tends to be the most difficult aspect of van life.
Here are some benefits I’ve discovered:
- I don’t set an alarm; I awaken to the soothing sounds of birds.
- I indulge in plenty of showers, but I often skip combing my hair—my big black afro stays wild when I choose.
- Laughter and tears are constants in my life. I cry in the mornings to clear my mind and at night to release the day’s emotions.
- I own 50% fewer belongings. It’s truly about "Less Junk, More Journey."
- I’ve let go of a lot—though not everything.
- I have the freedom to choose who I surround myself with, who I collaborate with, and who I connect with intimately.
I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself. My diet has improved, I’m more active, and I’ve shed some weight. Recently, I ventured to a well-known fast-food chain for coffee because the drive-through line was too long. For a moment, I felt like I was hitching a ride with Jeff Bezos to outer space.
What. The. Heck. (Even in nature, I still enjoy a good expletive now and then).
I placed my order at a kiosk, waited for my ticket, and observed my surroundings. Men in green shirts were gathered together, while one individual was dressed formally. Regardless of their attire, everyone seemed hurried, as if they had urgent destinations to reach.
What they were about to consume didn’t seem like real food. A friend once shared that he misplaced a hamburger in his truck and rediscovered it months later; the bun had turned hard and moldy, yet the patty looked exactly as it did on the day of purchase.
What. The. Heck?
The music was blaring, and I found it too early for such loud tunes—there’s never really a good time for it. I glanced over at elderly gentlemen seated at tables, chatting and reading newspapers. Is this the reality of retirement?
And seriously, when did a place known for its clown and golden arches become a hangout for senior citizens?
Yikes. I need to escape and return to nature.
I identify as an introvert. Many assume introverts are shy or anti-social, but that’s not me—I can easily chat with anyone and be the life of the gathering. Still, I need time alone to recharge afterward.
I cherish my life of simplicity. I thrive in being houseless and without a fixed zip code. In 3 to 5 years, I plan to transition to a Boxabl.
#Zoramag #Zora
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Section 1.1: The Joys of Minimalism
Living in a van offers a unique perspective on minimalism. The freedom from material possessions allows for deeper self-reflection and appreciation for the journey.
Subsection 1.1.1: Nature as Home
Section 1.2: The Challenges of Van Living
While van life is rewarding, it comes with its own set of challenges, including weather conditions and the occasional longing for community.