A Great Idea or a Big Mistake? (solo female van life)

[@martirodemyer3794]

Love your videos. At the age of 50 I sold my house and everything in it and moved to Costa Rica. Still Single and 57 years old now planning my next ‘decade celebration’.

[@mentalmadness5402]

I waited for YEARS for people to go with me places... then I decided to go by myself with my dog. We have a great time! Good for you to be out there living your dream.

[@JJacks920]

April has been the rainiest month EVER recorded for Oregon.

[@lynna1768]

Being a widow for 20 plus years I do things alone all the time, better then not getting out into the world. I applaud your attitude Amber !! 😊

[@RoadArtAdventure]

I love Florence. Was there last fall. Stayed at the TT just over the bridge. It rained the whole two weeks! But oh boy do they have some great clam chowder spots there!! Mo's was pretty great.... try that little stand that is only open mid day near the market on the in town part not far from the bridge...love the necklace (I think the stone cut is a briolette).. I have some lovely Labradorite, too. And I'm new agey and don't care who knows it 😉I was in all the stores you went in to.. fun! On the way out of town I hope you stop at the Gingerbread House. You can overnight there on Harvest Host and have a good dinner. The owner will show you a photo album that goes back a century of the area!

[@connieboss3299]

Total breakdown. Hard to get over. Need your prayers and support and love ❤ 😍 💖 ❣ 💕

[@pebblesdd4947]

Thank you for sharing so many wonderful moments... lily zoomies are like food for the soul, touching (and smelling) old books, campsite with all those trees, a really tasty looking van meal. You are a such a spirit and I relate to solo venturing that also started in my youth. Do you.

[@CritterSitterofCary]

we are stardust, we are golden.....thank you for taking me back to a favorite place....

[@Denise-xm8mn]

I was just in that area as well. A quick day trip from Tigard, Lincoln City, then on to Florence and Eugene. I absolutely love the peacefulness of the Oregon coast.

[@loisireland3744]

It's lots of fun going on your own....you set the agenda for what you want to see ..... I've been doing this for many, many,many......years and it's the best way to go !

[@veeemit9719]

The area where the Siuslaw and Pacific converge is beautiful. Girl please! Kudos to you-you are not wasting your life-we can do whatever we want with or without someone else, and that goes for men too.

[@user-dr2js7bv2i]

I love to see Lily run in the sand, she's so fast!

[@susanray8515]

I have some beautiful stone...they Line your Chakra s.....

[@CellasChariot]

Commenting again...YES you are a strong confident woman...absolutely nothing wrong with that at all!! xoxo

[@storychasing]

haha Michelle! Thanks and I think you are too! Great seeing you last night on our NMB call.

[@Thesaltymedic36]

As an only child, I did a lot of things by myself. Starting out in Maine I also didn’t have a choice, not a lot of people around in the 70’s 😂. I work alone in my Tahoe at work and I still have no problems doing anything by myself.

[@HopeLivesHere721]

When up in Oregon and Washington you just have to dress for the weather and do whatever you would want or plan to do anyway. You have to be part of the rain or shine gang because if you let the weather stop you, you'll never do anything. I like that you are telling us about each of your stops along the way. I am writing them down with each video you post. I will be driving my little 24 foot class C motor home up to Washington State up to the Kitsap Peninsula and plan on driving the coastal route to avoid driving the mountains and hills on Hwy 5 north thru Oregon. I'm enjoying your journey with you. Safe travels

[@nancycain4434]

I 💜 Florance! And Mos is a great restaurant. I like your Security cameras that's definitely what I want. And even though I was married for 39 years now that I'm divorced I don't have a problem going to restaurants, movies or doing anything by myself. I actually prefer it most of the time.

[@vickiec8503]

Amber try to stop by Howard Hughes Spruce Goose in McMinnville Oregon and tillamook cheese factory in tillamook Oregon. Worth it!

[@LauraMichellez]

An otter glimpse! My favorite! We spent early spring on the Oregon coast. We saw seals, a few of them playing in the surf! That's the best treat seeing animals in the wild.

[@danecope7243]

I'm in Ashland Oregon! Oregon is my home state and a beautiful place to be! Glad you are getting to enjoy the Coast!

[@shelleywalker6225]

This is a great video. I will add Florence, Oregon to my list of places to visit. Thank you for sharing your experience. I love watching Lily. She always looks so cozy and comfortable in your van. Safe travels.

[@exploringrvdude7817]

Florence is awesome. I love the little downtown area, a great coffee shop is there.

[@menotme5560]

I do most things by myself. Even went to England by myself. Twice.

[@belindaknowles7440]

What a fun day! Thanks for sharing your and Lily’s journey❤️

[@CellasChariot]

So excited to be a Patreon supporter Amber!! I get to see your videos early yipee!!! Sorry it's the lowest level but I will change that once I get on my feet financially my friend! Lots of love, xoxo Cella & Sugar

[@storychasing]

Michelle ~ Cella's Chariot 😊 Thank you so much for joining Patreon! OMG>...please don't apologize Michelle! Every thing counts and it's the intention behind it that means the most to me! Thank you!!!!

[@marytomlin2566]

Hi Amber, I will eat alone and go to the movies too. But I've never traveled more than 2-3 hours by myself. Maybe someday!

[@VivecaV2020]

I got into stones and quartz crystals, etc. over 25 years ago and I also believe in energies in rocks & trees, as well as everything else! We are all energy!

[@marydonaldson6139]

Love your ‘find’…necklace! I so enjoy your videos Amber. Your scenery is always beautiful which means your editing and creative choices are always in line with what I enjoy…FUN!🙌💞

[@meercatt]

I am the same .. solo travel rocks! I too have always done whatever I want alone… with the exception of clubs/bars. That is the only place I can think of I don’t want to do alone. 🤷🏻‍♀️👍

[@lilramborambo4399]

Another great video...😉👍 I absolutely love the coffee ☕ pour, it makes me feel like you and I are getting ready to go explore... It's a very nice touch👍 can't wait for the next pour..☕😉👍

[@storychasing]

lil rambo rambo LOL ....

[@lilramborambo4399]

@@storychasing 😉👍💛🏞️

[@rs.rossier]

I love my crystals too and yes we are all energy. 😍

[@shakinglifewithkazz]

The book ...Seven Little Australians based in Sydney in 1800s...I remember reading that book 🇭🇲💕

[@RunawaywithShortie]

I love my Simplisafe. I have one for my home and my camper. The camera and temp monitor is great to give me peace of mind whenever I leave my Lily in the camper.

[@mcdee1313]

Most of my almost 60 years in the great PNW. When the rain gets to you, remember to head East. I moved from there due to the rain and cost of living but it is my goal to spend July and August there each year. Such a perfect place for two months a year.

[@karenolson5556]

I love your Attitude about being Strong and Confident and doing fun things by yourself and still living your life if someone can't come with you!!! I do the same thing...nothing stops me from going and doing things by myself!!! Great Videos...luv you and your adventures!!!

[@storychasing]

Well said and good on you too!

[@GrandmaBugsPlace]

Oh man…..beautiful place. Had no idea about the crab fishing. Neat. Lunch looked super yummy. I don’t mind seeing a movie or eating on my own. Like you I’d rather have a person but I’m now a widow but I can do most things on my own. I sold my class c…after a few times outing on my own I was just to lonely. Now a year later and I have a Roadtrek van. Fixing her up ( it is a 99). May try a bit of camping in my area but would like to travel more. Will see. I’m not real confident on doing that. I’m impressed with you and how well you do so much … hugs Great video

[@teresakryvenchuk6205]

You are so lovely. I can see you better without a hat. Love to see your travels with Lilly.

[@adog175]

Just North of Florence is the Darlingtonia Botanical wayside, don't know what they look like this time of year very cool!

[@cindywhitmarsh6112]

Amber, I just love your videos! They are informative and have a calming effect on me. Another year and I plan to hit the road. I love boondocking and will travel slowly from destination to destination. Love you and Lily ❤

[@thewanderingjojo4239]

We are so so alike. I travel Australia solo with my dog, but in a caravan. My experiences and beliefs about living a life solo, no fear, resilience, not missing out because know one wants to join in... that all is really understood by me, live the same way! I have travelled in vans around USA myself for months at a time. LOVE PNW. My friends mom has a van I can use at anytime... and I can't wait to hit up the USA again. And I hope that I might be able to see you on the road one day! I highly recommend Red Mountain camp ground in WA.

[@oliviagraceson6318]

They don't make like that every day. Kids miss out, sadly. Really like the necklace. Very pretty.

[@robinhart1390]

We live in Oregon and the week or so you came was unusual. We did have really odd weather with rain and hail. Spring, summer and fall are awesome here.

[@alicephillips841]

Bravo to you for being brave enough to go out and about and do what you want on your own. That's been my life for decades now, and I'm fine with it. When family or friends join me, it's great but I won't let their absence keep me from experiencing life to the fullest. What I don't do is go out at night to bars but then I never did that when I was dating and married before. Enjoy your life and travels; it's the only one you have.

[@journeywithme3402]

I generally never comment on KZbin videos because even though I watch you all the time, I'm still a stranger to you. I had to say something though because I just loved this video. You really looked happy and it was the most down to earth video of vanlife that I've ever watched. I found it very touching and funny. I also loved the views and information on the subject matter you shared. I know one day you will retire, but please I'm asking for you not too anytime soon. I love your videos. I too wanted to do van life and even started downsizing and buying some things that I would need, but then I was diagnosed with stage 3 kidney disease and will need dialysis before I'm able to save what I need to buy a van. I'm glad to have you and your videos to live through, and hopefully you will be around for a long time to come, and hopefully one day I can experience just a little bit of what you do, if even for a short season. If it's not in God's will for me, then I always have you and your videos to fall back on. Thank you so much for the sunshine that you provide for me. Thank you for your realness and raw emotions at times too. I feel like I know you, even though I don't. Thank you for giving me your videos to brighten my low energy days due to my health issues. I'll continue to watch you and thank you so much.

[@sueswadling6387]

I have been watching you for a while and I am liking the new silver highlights in your hair. Beautiful!

[@louisguthrie7286]

Amber , the Northwest must suit you. You are absolutely glowing. I am heading to my daughter's house in Battleground Washington in June. Thanks again for being a Pathfinder . Stay Beautiful and adventurous.

[@karencharny1497]

I Love that you have a scarf wraped around your HEAD

[@storychasing]

Karen Charny 😊 ahhh...it's actually my hoodie. Glad you liked the look though. I've done that before with scarves as well.

[@basil8760]

Truly love the heart sculpture.🥰 That beautiful tree looks like a Cherry Blossom tree originated from Japan.😍 Like local coffee shops vs chain better. Enjoyed it. Ty for sharing.

[@HopeLivesHere721]

I don't mind going places by myself. I go a lot of places by myself. Plus, you have Lilly. She's your travel buddy.

[@KimberlyLetsGo]

That clam chowder looked sooo good! I love seafood. And malt vinegar on my fish and fries. The RV cameras are a great idea.

[@robinhart1390]

You are so cool! I told my husband “I really like this gal.” I love Chrystal’s as well❣️Oregon has awesome trees.🥰 We are buying a trailer which Arrives June 1st 😃. We’re going to be part time travelers. Love Lilly! We have 2 pups and are excited to hit the road as newly retired at 60. If you come back to to Oregon look us up❣️

[@debmann5168]

Such a nice video Amber. Love the tip about putting your leveler block down so you know where to stop on the back up. Smart. Also, I really like how you are always looking right at the camera and your audience. It makes you so much more sincere and engaging. You are sincere I know, but the way you speak to your audience and take us around is very nice.

[@storychasing]

Deb Mann Thank you. That's very kind of you to comment. It's taken time and also getting to know you all through the lens and on here for me to feel more comfortable doing it. Yeah...it always bugs me when I see people looking at their pop-out screen on their camera rather than at the lens. It's actually distracting for me to do that. Thanks Deb!

[@clotildadcunha633]

I love your narration of the places you visit Your voice is clear and soothing

[@storychasing]

Clotilda DCunha Thank you. That's very kind of you to comment.

[@jodirose4561]

I am pretty sure it was just a good ole seal but still so much fun in Florence. It is growing so fast. Have you ever stayed at the Port of Siuslaw? Such a cute little camp ground right in the downtown area!. Beautiful travels to you on our magnificent Oregon Coast! Come see us in Bend!😉

[@karlalong4541]

If you haven't done so before, you need to eat at The Drift Inn in Yachats, 25 miles north of Florence. The food is fantastic. Hope you enjoy your time on the Oregon coast. Also, Tidal Raves in north Depot Bay is fantastic and has a beautiful view.

[@sunangel-rivka]

What a fun day! Isn't Mo's a chain? There's a couple of other ones in Newport and somewhere else up there ( Seaside, Cannon Beach, not sure). Also that arched bridge design is extremely common all throughout Oregon and they are trying to preserve it. They had to tear down an old bridge of that design in Rogue River Oregon and they replaced it with a newer bigger one that looked just like it, which I thought was fantastic.

[@HopeLivesHere721]

I also believe in the healing power of stones. It's a real thing.

[@pamelasprings6723]

You are delightful Amber and I think doing things by yourself is awesome. I have done it for many years. I was born and raised in Seaside and raised my kids in Astoria. I think you would love Cannon Beach, Seaside and Astoria. Not sure if you are heading North but it is worth it. If you go to Astoria go to the Safeway if you like Sea Lions. There are hundreds and they are annoying. There is a crystal shop in Astoria. I buy them there. They hold healing energies. So nice. Thank you for sharing your travels.

[@akgobears]

Love the Oregon coast...We do it often as we have kids in Portland and Garibaldi ...Hope you hit the Cheese factory in Tillamook as its been all redone and its pretty nice...Gets crowded though...You got my usual at Mo's...Fish & Chips w/clam chowder....Another little secret gem to try is Old Oregon Smokehouse in Rockaway beach...As you come in on Hwy 101 you will see a Red Caboose in the middle of town right next to the Hwy...Right across the st. from there is this place...Great Crab melt and chowder...Want to try the Halibut and chips next time im there...

[@dianewolfe3056]

Good for you, I travel alone most times and see friends in different places where they live or where the meet up with me. I am not going to miss something because I am alone I will just go and do. I had a set up with a man and we travelled together in our own Rv’s but that ended when we were neither doing things the way we wanted to. Say la vie!

[@bypinkerton892]

OMG.... I just Really Enjoy watching Lilly Zoom around the Sandy Beach.... It's like she is a Little Girl again.... Amber... If you find a Place for a Base.... Having a Sandy Beach for Lilly might be Fun.... Luv' s to Lilly.... & Thanks for the Video

[@storychasing]

You are so welcome!

[@michellestratford9753]

I totally agree about doing things on your own. In fact, I've just booked tickets to a music festival for 4 days at the end of July by myself, and I'm quite looking forward to it. Sure, I'd rather have a partner in some ways, but I have found that in many ways I experience people and places with more depth and breathe because I'm not wrapped up in our couple-bubble. Looks like a really cool place, I'm adding to my OR destinations 🥰. Safe travels 💖🚙🇨🇦

[@antoniobaez6282]

That's a awesome security cam system you've got there!

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

It was cold there 4 months ago? wow...that's in the middle of the summer! I'm heading up there this or next month, I looked at the yearly temps in the NW and i didn't think it would get too cold that early! Well, this Phoenix girl will be prepared! lol

[@njanderson4342]

I got hooked on "The Expanse" because you recommended it. I'm listening to the books.

[@mbnyus]

What a beautiful place, thank you for the tour. You looks amazing with your grey hair.

[@marthaanderson2346]

Beautiful! When you're back in Texas, go to Recycled Books store on the square in Denton. 3 1/2 floors of books and more.

[@candybrown3785]

If we wait for others to go somewhere or to make us happy we will never live our lives and do things. I'm 62 and last August I retired and moved to Montana where I could afford a cute little apartment and explore the entire State and have somewhere where I could go snow skiing in the season. I left my son and grandson in Texas because 3 years living there I realized it was not going to be an affordable or place that I would love to retire in despite having my family 5 mi from me. They were always doing their thing and living their life and I realized I needed to do the same. My son loves snow skiing so he can always come for a visit. Since being here I've gone snow skiing five times and went dog sledding all by myself. I have no family or friends here but I am not letting that stop me from doing things I've been wanting to do. Yesterday I sought out a waterfall that I had no idea of was on the same road where I go to Teton Pass ski resort. It's one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen on that road to the ski resort. There's 10 miles of gravel road before you get to the ski resort that has the most epic mountains and streams of rushing water and one beautiful thing after another there. I set out to go to this waterfall that is on that road but you make a left on to the South Fork Road to get to the waterfall and it's another gravel Road and when you're out there you absolutely have no cell service. There was no one there at all. I got a mile before I was to reach the waterfall and up till then there was no snow on the road in April. I hit a huge area of snow on the road and I tried to drive through it and I got stuck. I tried not to panic and I just put it in reverse and was able to get out of it even though I was slipping and sliding all the way. I have a shovel in my trunk and I also make sure when I go on these trips knowing I'm in the wilderness with no one around to have a bag of extra clothing, blankets, first aid kit, extra water, food, etc. It frightened me the thought that I could have got stuck up there and no one around to even call but I can't think like that or I will just sit in my apartment never getting to see this beautiful state. Oh and my car has 215,000 miles on it. Still going strong 💪. I think it's amazing how brave you are to live a life in a Van getting to explore the entire United States. Thank you for sharing your travels giving all of us ideas and motivation to do the same. Keep living your best life 💓

[@dave5008-]

The most satisfying and calming parts of your video that I enjoy the most is watching you make coffee. Haha #IMweird

[@chadfaulkner3600]

If you like navy boats. Next time you come to maine , you might want to take a tour of Bath Iron Works. That's where they are made.

[@143tinaed]

I really enjoyed this video, I love your lifestyle. My wife suggested that we could sell everything and travel, but I'm the worry wart. I love your dog. We have 2 and would have many more if we could. Ed

[@paulamcneely4923]

TIL that Rvers are carrying their own 'business cards' to pass around to people they want to stay in touch with or maybe become a KZbin supporter for you. You can use your logo. It would be really cute. Whatcha think? Happy Trails & Tails 💥

[@Kathleensailorgirl]

Absolutely beautiful scenery 👍💕💕

[@stacylynn8494]

I find it easier to be in the present when alone. Yes it’s nice to spend a day with a friend laughing and doing things but generally it’s a different feeling when with someone that detracts.

[@GeminiJourney1111]

The entire Coast of Oregon is amazing. Curious if you will be going over the Astoria Bridge. Do you remember the name of the store you were in where you bought your necklace. Enjoy your excursion North. Can't wait to see your stops.

[@richardarmstrong3645]

Amber, your a courageous cute woman going solo in your travels, some great interesting places. Thanks for sharing. From the land down under

[@laurakramer396]

Laboridite (sp?) Is a beautiful color changing gem. I collect gem stones and love this particular stone.

[@seabliss22]

🤣😂 Dolphin lol. You obviously needed a cup of coffee ☕ to wake up. The necklace is pretty. It's nice to have these kinds of Tavel videos back. It feels like I'm spending the day just hanging out with my gal pal. Btw.. your silvers are looking good 👍 Have you noticed that you have more body now that you stop putting color on? Mine did. In fact when I was at the halfway stage, my hair was actually two completely different textures. Blessings... Linda

[@seabliss22]

Oh and... When I was single and would take myself out on a dinner date, I'd choose a restaurant with a counter or bar and would park myself between people. It was so much fun and kept guys from hitting on me because I didn't look alone.

[@Danni.D]

This has been the coldest spring on record here in the PNW.

[@storychasing]

Plot Twist 😊 I always seem to be in places with these extremes. lol

[@connieeaton48]

You go girl, and yes I go to restaurants alone, I’m there.😎

[@MarySears]

MO’s is the BEST!!! Great video Amber!

[@beverleygrimbeek4941]

Lol😊 How horribly delish that clam chowder looked. Pretty little town thanks as always for sharing and little Lily having beach zoomies 😂💕

[@RVingwithG]

Yep, You MUST always stop at MOE'S for a great view and a meal!

[@kimlashombe]

I will add Florence, Oregon to my list of places to visit. Ohhhh how I look forward to retirement. As always, thank you for sharing your tips, tricks, and life with us. Happy travels, friend. 🚐

[@wendyjo9267]

Omg love this video soooi much. I love all your videos. Lol. But one was amazingly beautiful

[@jmd6359]

Wow... so many topics I relate to! 1 Travelled alone - from US to/around Europe -- others couldn't come along... didn't stop me from living that dream 2 The Otter is supposedly my Spirit animal and I adore them - so cool you saw one 3 I love rocks and stones - a Geologist is my dream job ...really! 4 Energy is all things' commonality... I believe this is true 5 I adore small / used book stores and cannot open a new novel without fanning the pages right up in front of my nose... yup... love that smell! 6 Had same dream long ago of my sister and I taking care of homeless dogs on a farm! 7 Well, ok I was never a fan of vinegar on fish and chips, but don't believe I've tried it in decades! Will give that malt stuff a try sometime :) Such a nice video... thanks again Amber! Enjoy and be well!

[@mysticearth272]

I love 💕 the Oregon Coast

[@quahog5518]

Another dog….that’s what I did for Cooper

[@quahog5518]

Whoops! Cooper is on the right!! Sorry!

[@caspergreen8931]

Beautiful video, thank you for sharing! Be safe❤️

[@janetsrealimages5234]

I love Mo's clam chowder

[@michellecollins9650]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and travels. Appreciate insight. Do you like the west coast better than east.. So happy for you.

[@carolwest6095]

I've gone on trips by myself often and met some great people. Everywhere from the Oregon and northern California coast and to New Orleans, to explore and sing with the musicians. Also about stones I believe they help us get in touch and strengthen aspects of ourselves. It's not just the stones, it is our interaction with them. Send them love and your love is amplified .

[@greyghostjay]

I live inland in Oregon, originally from SoCal so took awhile to get used to the rain. I find that Florence is best in September. I've come to love it here. Seeing your pup running so happy made my day! Glad you got to visit !

[@Debbie_T_FL]

Beautiful area 😍. Love the necklace!!

[@dani_mack]

The stone on your necklace is beautiful! What a fun area to explore. I love the beach where the river and ocean come together. I've been watching The Thing About Pam too. I love how it's narrated. 😀

[@rubysmirh3639]

In joy your stay. The coast is beatiful.i live I n beaverton. Or. But plan on moving to flagstaff. Az.

[@patrickshouvlin]

I really enjoy your videos. You are amazing.

[@valerie022848]

I love malt vinegar on potatoes of any kind

[@CraftsandMorewithDonnaJackson]

What a awesome video. Loved the sights and the quaint town. Lily looked like she enjoyed herself. TFS

[@cindybell4792]

Lily sure Loves the Beach ⛱!!!

[@inhertrax9612]

The GOAT MILK lip balms at Cracker Barrels are the BEST I think the brand is DIONIS