#7 The mom’s attic project [and the last holes 🕺]

New projects, more holes.
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[@MariahAlice]

Merry late Turkey day from our little family to yours 🕺 🐶

[@PromasterHOF]

Glad you are getting your build together and I hope you had a good Turkey day. I have suggestion for hiding your rear door, keeping it operational and installing the conventional rear door or sliding glass door. Can’t explain it here so I will see if you have an Instagram page, I can make it make sense

[@Xi12Official]

Your build Is going to be great

[@dmbworks8094]

it would be fun to make you some 3D layouts to help decide how you want you space. i find its much easier to take on projects like this if you have a finished goal in mind.

[@davidroberts5577]

Right back at you ✌️

[@phoebevanderhorst7760]

🦃

[@1954BigV]

It is so heartwarming to see your Dad working with you on your build. You are lucky to have this bonding time with him. Of course, Finn stole the show. Keep up the great work. You are amazing.

[@charliejoellejulie8142]

I’m a UHAUL dealer and I’m extremely impressed with your skill and imagination. I enjoy seeing your vision for the truck

[@TheRealD_Po]

Seems like there might be some used Uhaul deals in this family thread. The Alice soecials!

[@ebbthenflow]

I'm in the market for one just like hers, LMK if you have any tips! 😁

[@tianagadsden4843]

How much would a uhaul truck like this one cost?

[@elombetv6429]

Hi I would like to know how much woulda uhaul exactly like hers but 26ft would cost, a used one ?

[@W94urndks9urneos]

I’m glad you are letting your dad help. You seem like a super independent young lady and as a dad who has raised two girls like this it can be a double edged sword. On the one hand I’m glad they can get out there and figure it out on thier own, but sometimes I’d like to help them and it makes them mad when I try to help without being asked. So when they ask for my help it makes me So happy!

[@PedroNord]

I love the speeded up sections, particularly the audio. It’s the most fun build I’ve ever watched. Thank you for being exactly who you are. 🦋

[@MariahAlice]

🥺 my heart

[@larrymarchand2560]

I wouldn't cut through to many of those roof support ribs Dear !!!

[@davehorgan6506]

So glad I found this van conversion based ASMR channel 😂

[@MariahAlice]

😂

[@maryanna2245]

I'm not shy to admit that at my early 50's, I'm learning from and inspired by young ones such as yourself. That confidence and determination. I've started to do long weekend up to a week of camping in a National Forest near Crater Lake in my no build Chevy Tahoe and it's amazing. I am a nature addict after all. If you're ever in San Fran area, let me know. Keep up the good work.

[@garyunruh6945]

You guys continue to inspire this 63 Year old...need to figure out a way for me to do this too!🙂

[@maxwellmilton4511]

I'm in my early 50's as well, and completely agree with what you said

[@gailmiller7035]

I am 73 now but when I was 71 Mariah inspired me to do a no-build in my Chevy Cruze and I spent 4 days in Alabama Hills CA due to her detailed account of one of her favorite places. It is now oneof mine :-)

[@janvan4424]

@@gailmiller7035 That is awesome! 😁

[@maryanna2245]

@@gailmiller7035 @gary unruch @maxwell milton @jan van Good to vibe here with you all while we appreciate these young ones. Maybe one day we can all surprise @mariah alice with a small meet up @Alabama Hills, CA. Cheers!

[@petegilbert6886]

Hey Mariah, 64yr old fella watching your videos from the UK and loving the idea of travelling in a converted van. You've done so well up to now and I'm sure you will finish the project and have an awesome experience travelling!! Don't keep doubting your abilities to complete this conversion!! 😃👍👍

[@garyunruh6945]

63 Years old and so want to do the same!;-)

[@riogrande5761]

@@garyunruh6945 Learn by doing!

[@P2000Camaro]

LMAO!!! @17:44.. Your ladder was like "F** this, I'm out."

[@PaulGoesPlaces]

I'm addicted to these build videos haha

[@Nicole-nk7zx]

As someone who grew up without a father, it's always nice seeing yours in your videos helping out. Makes me smile.

[@craftersalleybyheatherc]

Everyone is impressed with her building skills - I am too- but I’m mainly just dropping my comment to say it’s good to see that I’m not the only one who wears their doggy. 🐶 😂

[@texasdeplorables]

The moment you opened the sylight and sat down on the roof with Finn had to be the most rewarding moment of the build. You are a gem and an inspiration to us all.

[@grimdarksandwich66]

The sky light access to the roof is really cool. Creates added living space on top of your home. You may want to strip the sealant around the light and reapply with the same technique you used for the fan. The application around the fan looked more effective for keeping out water. Gently pressing/smoothing in the sealant with a finger ensures any gaps are filled. I’m an airplane mechanic, we apply sealant almost anytime we remove or replace anything on the exterior of a plane. I think you are doing great and learning skills that will serve you for a lifetime in this project. Keep at it and enjoy.

[@tracy-wb-7]

Love how Finn will just chill in your lap while you are working. So sweet!

[@john15yt]

I do hope that your dad will be one of your first guests in this van in an upcoming adventure and extend these wonderful moments of father-daughter bonding.

[@michaelp761]

Excellent progress. Please put the guard on the grinder!

[@larryhunter8245]

It’s amazing to see your confidence on this build! Learn to love an angle grinder it (like it’s baby brother the Dremel) can solve problems that no other tool can.

[@wakjagner]

18:10 I've always heard that phrased as "Experience is what you get, after you need it." Your build is going so well, I look forward to seeing what you learn along the way!

[@stevekramer3838]

You are a total bad ass, not only for taking a project like this on but to build on the road. Much respect for Bristol Bay Alaska

[@mdrake42]

Enjoyed the video. Gotta admit I was nervous you were going to fall through the roof. Those beams provide structural integrity, and when you were putting all your weight on one spot whilst cutting your fan hole, it made be cringe. Then 2 seconds later you were doing frame work, so you must have been wondering the same. Good luck on the road.

[@cheryllundholm8779]

Mariah Alice, Have you thought about a cargo net placed up there to prevent you and Finn from falling off, while sleeping? It is soft compared to a hard wood structure. You could use wood dowels, covered with soft & colorful pool noodles. It will need to be narrow enough so Finn or your foot doesn't get stuck between the bars. You could use a small piece of fencing. Cattle fencing is very strong. I have a small piece of chicken wire you can have. You could use window screening material, too. The black soft material, or the tougher wire screen material. You can create a mosquito free zone, with a swing open door. This will be a larger easier entrance opening. I kind of like this one the best - mosquito free zone! With a swing door that latches shut. I also like the idea of stairs going up to the loft, that double as drawers and a closet.

[@davidb8872]

For someone that says they don’t know what there doing it looks great. You make me smile watching.🙂

[@user-vc5rp7nf8f]

Nice to see your project moving along. For the grinder, I’d keep a wheel guard on. It’ll keep sparks and abrasive debris from flying into your face. You’ll see some guys on job sites remove them for convenience but don’t follow their example. The grinder and the table saw are two of the most dangerous tools in any shop, so don’t take your safety for granted. Make sure you know the integrity of the disc before using it (was it stored flat or at an angle underneath something, dropped, or cracked), make sure the nut is tight, and wheel guard is on. Pay attention to how the tool is responding during the cutting. And maybe have ANSI ballistic eyewear. A few min of prepping could save you from an unfortunate accident. Those things spin wicked fast and if those discs shatter it’s not good to have them go into your face. Nice job with the stuff though. Looks more homey now

[@kajuncourier]

Mariah,you are doing a awesome job on your projects. With your Dad's help,it will be come a reality. Would recommend removing sliding door in back. Enclose with treated plywood, 2X4's or Metal.Get a Camper door and install. A small window on both sides of door to look out,especially at night,with a LED light that you can turn out on side of door too. A small awning over door would help when raining,but not a necessity. ( A back up camera would be very beneficial ). [ Have faith in yourself,you are intelligent young Woman. ]

[@donjonson2514]

❤ I loved that transition when you went out the sunroof at the end . Made me feel what your efforts are all about. I get it . Happy holidays..

[@squeedum4893]

I am such a dork that I'm way too amused by the funny sounds you make when you're talking to yourself in fastforward speed.

[@Aeton._]

The way you’re cutting that wood makes my anxiety skyrocket

[@hansimaier01]

These videos are so calming. I almost regret that I bought a fully equipped van, but then again, I'd be scared s*itless if I had to cut through metal and do wiring, etc. It takes a lot of confidence to do what you're doing. :-)

[@JasperKloek]

Your van is for you. It should be whatever works for you. 👍

[@BrittMFH]

@B Babbich What's easy for you may not be easy for someone else.

[@posteroonie]

Cutting all those holes really transformed the space! Good job, it's getting homier by the week.

[@67icebowl]

A dad and his daughter. What could be better!

[@scottyrobinson5708]

I swear Mariah Alice you are the only one keeping me alive during this challenging difficult & tough time I love you girl!💯⭐️🤩❤️❤️❤️

[@blastrocket22]

I loved when drilling into the ceiling “oh so perfect, I love it” in a borat esk accent 😂

[@70sladyalways25]

Finn is such a little superstar! You’ve got things looking good and moving along. Can’t wait to see the finished build 😊

[@Zach3ry]

I honestly believe we should have learned these types of skills in school. I don’t know if you did but the types of ideas and things are endless and I think the world is headed in the right direction of hands on work once again.

[@ChrisShepard8122]

Not sure why but I find the noises you make when you talk and sing to yourself in fast forward amusing LOL. 😂🥰

[@mmsmits2868]

I don't know if I'd have the guts to cut holes like that. I have the tools, but that's only half the job. So impressed...

[@rmetzger7368]

Mariah, as always, you made my day! Wondering where this build is going to take you, keeps me glued to my chair with each video. You're a model for young, and old, alike. Jumping in with both feet is your motto, one I've lived by for many decades. Enjoy your life Mariah, LIVE your life! We'll be watching every week for updates!

[@MatthewJorgensen1968]

I can suggest a couple of things. Use metal frames when possible to mitigate rot. Use flex seal around the outside mounting frame of the vent due to the gasket not holding up to the flexing of the roof under temp changes. I am currently repairing the roof of my box truck due to rotten wood and leaking seal around vent.

[@edwil111]

nice work. You're freaking fearless! Its "This Old House" U-Haul edition!

[@jclements65]

Supermodel building a small home, Beauty and talent. The complete package.

[@KW-up2ox]

Lol 15 seconds in & I love how you say “Finn and I” like he’s passing you tools or holding up plywood as you drill it in. That’s how I think about plans with my pup too. So excited to continue to watch this build-I’m saving up for a van now but I might get a box truck instead.

[@AQMusic10]

You hit the nail on the head of doing things and having everything come together right at the end. You’re definitely gaining very valuable skills which will pay off in the future. Take care and be safe.

[@momonthego9318]

Yes something I wish I could have put together

[@Torsee]

19:24 Nothing like the love of a good dog!

[@kajuncourier]

Miss Mariah,when you finish building and have everything set up. I would recommend having a car alarm system installed as your house alarm with a panic button when you are sleeping. If anyone would try to break in from the cab area or rear, you trip the alarm and they will leave. The rear sliding door could be made into a awning for rear opening. I would enclose rear opening with a camper door as a back entrance with a folding ladder or folding aluminum steps. Enjoy your videos,wishing you luck with your build and a Merry Christmas.

[@Demancer2]

I love my Jackery too! I also connect it to a portable power bank for extra juice. So essentially my car charges both of them when I drive. So cool :)

[@jimmiller4951]

When I seen you about to cut your roof bow out I Gasped and said out loud “ OH NO ! “ . The only proper way to restructure your roof is NOT front to rear wood ( that will not restructure it ) . You need to add two bows , one in front and one in rear of your cutout . Easiest way is to make a cardboard template / pattern and use 2x4 or 2x6 depending on amount of bow is in your roof. Trace the pattern on your 2x’s and slowly cut the bow with a jig saw ( I know you have one ;) . Trust me on this I have been doing RV Tech work for over 40 years . Think about what I’m saying ………. Mimic the way the van was originally built when it comes to structure always when cutting into it. Great video , great and creative editing sweetie . Happy Hollidays ! !

[@peacefullyoutwards]

I ran into similar problems with my roof, but mine was fiberglass and it made it a little challenging, but I put reflectix up first, then foam board before framing it in. Insulation is one of the most important parts of the build. P.s. I put a Chinese diesel heater and I’m over the moon happy with it so far, I’ve seen a few 17 degree nights, and was super cozy in my home. The work you’re doing is great, I feel that you’re an inspiration to other female nomads and should be proud, I love your channel.

[@QsTechService1]

Is Always Awesome to have your dad's help Looks like the build is coming along good Your Pretty good with the power tools 👍

[@johnrefoy6916]

I know that feeling! Just as you come to the end of some new process or project part, you get rreally good at whatever it is your doing..... and then.... YOUR DONE!! Lol! Love you videos, loving the build! Keep believing, you got this!!

[@beeurself8947]

YAY🥳 ANOTHER VIDEO FROM MARIAH

[@DaytonaShooter]

I'm so impressed and inspired by your approach to doing this build. Fitting it (the build) into your life and not putting life on hold for six months to a year makes great sense.

[@earnestmarshall4694]

I agree, not only are they junk, those power stations do cost a lot more compared to other brands.

[@maxwellmilton4511]

I must say, I am very impressed at what you are doing with this van. I don't think my engineering son could do this.

[@justmyway508]

Dont take this the wrong way, I absolutely am impressed with the build and love how its turning out. But what blows my mind every video is seeing the genuine love and affection that Finn has for you. The blind trust he entirely puts in you its honestly beautiful. You can see how comfortable and content he is with spending every waking moment with you. 1000% the best road companion you could have. Its great to watch, he would be lost with out you, as Im sure you would be without him. Well amazing video as usual. Take care and happy holidays

[@carsonproductions12]

You sound possessed when the speed is multiplied when ur talking hahaha great video !

[@jacobachavez0513]

Why is this girl so smart and handy and beautiful at the same time?!!!! That’s impossible…🙃

[@elizabethheide1402]

Perfectly! What you're doing MATTERS!

[@chrisdalebout5106]

It is so much fun to see you plan what you're your next step in the build will be. You give me lots of smiles, Thank you!

[@elblunts6927]

Cool Finn patch and he look so at peace inside your sweater. Also your doing such a great job and the background song in minute 14 was perfect. Until next time, stay free.

[@MomCat6000]

As you confidently began to install the skylight I began to 😭. To have watched you from the beginning and to see you now - sally forth with such courage 🎉 …. The happy tears of joy & pride will not stop falling!! 😭 😊

[@MomCat6000]

Your apartment build is going to be stunning!!! P. S. when doing such up close work- like installing the screws in the skylight… please wear some kind of safety glasses please ❤

[@cparker7431]

You are a brave, talented young woman !!!

[@jeremynkelley]

Wow that lighting at 2:44 is MONEY!

[@mochamochaayumyumm]

the sped-up singing and talking is taking me out lmfao. especially when you said "wow, look at me" haha

[@SoulQuJo]

The build is already so amazing and you've only had the box for a little bit. Jealous of the space!

[@GenderSkins]

Hey Mariah, great work. Little tip though for some of your framing. You can use what they call a mortise and tenon Joint or half-lap joint to join to pieces of wood together for a stronger joint. A lot of the cabinets I had in my old 1954 Spartan was put together with tong and grove joints, along with mortise and tenon, due to how they tend to flex when you move around. But for things like your fan's, a half-lap joint would give you better support then the butt joints you used. A quick google search will show you the 15 most common joins used in framing work.

[@danielmalack3714]

when you cut a beam you need to re support it, its there for a reason run a support bar from the beams between the ones you didnt cut as close to the fan as you can

[@DesertRunner9875]

Enjoying the build, can't wait to see your layout

[@alanl9882]

I’m learning a lot. Also gonna need some Finn merch soon… 🙂

[@glenchilada]

You still need a pure sine inverter so you can car charge your jackery faster. But yeah, the sogens are the way to go.

[@christierinehart3289]

I don't know where to start. I'm so impressed with your determination and courage to take on this project and do it yourself (with some help). What a huge commitment. I don't know your age, but you sure seem to be living the way you choose and figuring it out as you go. I'm much older than you, and wish I had had the confidence to do what you're doing, both when I was young and even now. I'm proud of you and always look forward to your videos and seeing what's next! Continued happiness to you and Finn.🧡

[@tomasball6642]

I say it every video but one of my favourite things is the Minecraft music that plays near the end of the video. For some reason seeing you reflect on your work while Minecraft music is playing is so wholesome.

[@johnsauer9067]

Can't believe what a difference those side windows make to the interior of the truck. Really transforms the space. Looking forward to seeing this project develop.

[@victoriabaker6943]

Awesome, just awesome!!

[@Canthus13]

"Why am I doing this? I don't know." I was wondering the same. But it's just tape. No big deal one way or the other. I'd probably find a way to tie the beam you cut into the ones on either side for some added rigidity. If you know someone who can weld aluminum, it wouldn't be too difficult and would help it bow less when you're up there for maintenance. Also, if you leave it as it is, you'll likely develop leaks around the fan, and it'll sag a bit leaving a place for water to pool. I've woken up in a rainstorm with water dripping on me before - It's not fun.

[@keeneterry1603]

My Dear_ You have made it very apparent that you are an unstoppable force. Best wishes to you through the Holidays and beyond.

[@TheRealD_Po]

Another great episode. Thx. I noticed you enjoyed the roof at the end. Make sure you install anchor points for cedar (or whatever) decking. Before insulation and finish ceiling.

[@justinbolt1356]

Angle grinders come with a guard for a reason! The most lethal tool on earth if you remove it! Either way, go girl, we love you! Stop by if and when you drive through Europe 🤗

[@jeffrey3498]

You might be able to rig a cargo net to stop you from falling out of bed. That’s the solution for the top bunk in semi trucks.

[@NogrimStoneson]

template material tip, use cereal boxes. they are much easier to use for that stuff and will bend nicely.

[@JamesBond-vg6wz]

Almost 160k subs..Well done my friend, well deserved 👍🥂🧡

[@kimguinn3640]

You are such an amazing young person. Great job with your project. What a role model for other young people you are. And an inspiration to us all. Happy travels. ❤

[@brycehongola2425]

I’m impressed with you the devil is in the details, that’s how one learns. Good work.☮️🌵

[@bentelog2823]

prepare holes for stove exhaust, periscope with thermal vision and spotlight(very useful during night surveillance), drone helipad with thermal vision, flare launcher, weather speed sensor. Dont forget the rooftop flooring for astronomical telescope. and also vertical frame for hammock support.

[@davebehaveok]

We started watching van life videos a lil over a year ago, and we never really seen a build happening in real time. So, needless to say, this is so freakin exciting 😃😃😃!! Can't wait till the next episode!! Happy Thanksgiving and bless you and your family! PS those windows are so 🔥🔥🔥♥️

[@juswilvel]

0:56 - Why did I immediately imagine Finn bungee jumping in the middle of the night? 😅

[@jeffgoodall1137]

You singing in fast forward is the cats meow! When I realized you could climb out of the skylight, I said out loud “she is a genius “

[@miteshraja4823]

That squirrel voice over is cute/amazing 🤣 ty for the video and happy turkey day! Keep up the good work!

[@hunnive04]

Do you know what song she was singing it sounds so familiar but I can't figure it out😭

[@Hay2I33]

Love the build so far cant wait when it is finished

[@zachmedina2509]

The Minecraft music at the end brought back so many memories lmao

[@seekers1937]

Its so satisfying to see you build yourself your new home… I am truly blessed to come along with you in this journey 🥰

[@wadelinn3059]

You are. Looking good. Ok. Hun.💓💓💓👍👍👍

[@gravel1brevet2campinghocke27]

환기구 인줄 알았는데 섬네일보니 루프창문도 만들었네요^^ 아주 마음에 듭니다^^

[@Peter-qb3pv]

It is good you added the skylight / hatch as it gives you an escape route in case rear door doesn't work. I guess you could also go out through one of the windows. Are any of the windows designed to be escape windows? You ought to put a very strong anchor point on the roof and use Fall Protection / harness when you are on the roof. Anchor point for Fall Protection arrestor strap will need to take a lot of force if you go over the side with the harness on. Also think of the harness length with respect to where you would end up if you fell off. If you were hanging from the fall arrestor protection, could you get yourself down if you're by yourself. Does your rear overhead door have typical locking mechanism, ~ rotating handle with arm that latches into truck deck and position to attach a lock? You might want to think whether someone could lock you in. With roof skylight/hatch you're in better shape now though with regard to someone locking you in. It's great watching your van construction videos. Keep them coming.

[@meltedfusitediy6625]

I like all the windows, skylight and fan. Seems homey already.

[@barbaraallen3054]

Been quietly watching your build. What you have accomplished so far is amazing. Please don't fall out of that bed🥰

[@mikeallensonntag]

You kinda did what I'm talking about with sun roof. The screws that go through roof holding whatever your putting up there at bare minimum you need to back bottom side of roof with piece of wood so it's screw/vent/roof/wood. That way over time screws don't pull out of the roof. I see screws sticking out by the Max air, pull them back out and put some wood there and run them back down.

[@MichaelSwartout]

Good job on the windows and the vent. You are a wonderful DIY'er. It's coming along perfect, don't ever doubt yourself. You have got this. In this kind of build don't forget about rivets, they will help with attaching things.

[@duncangough9969]

A bowl of soapy water is handy for smoothing the bead of silicon. Just dip your finger and smooth away! Great work. I'm concerned the roof might collapse with a bit of weight though. Snow can build up and can be quite heavy.