In this episode, I'm solo car camping in the outskirts of the Ocala National Forest again, this time at Silver Springs State Park. This is one of the oldest and most historic state parks in Florida. Once a famous roadside attraction, it's one of only 33 first magnitude natural springs in Florida (although the state has over 600 natural springs recorded) and is home to tons of natural beauty and wildlife, as well as history. I also attempt my first official solo hike since getting sick, after testing the waters a bit more lately. I'm still struggling to adjust to finding some semblance of normalcy with solo female vanlife and developing a routine on the road, and you'll see me struggling with that as well as daily vanlife activities at camp. I almost left out the ending (and perhaps I should have, but in the sake of transparency, I decided to leave it in), but I feel it's important to share all of my journey with you... the highs and lows, the planned abd the unexpected. Thanks for watching and being here. I appreciate you. ==== My setup details** Note: the pink color BougeRV car fridge is still on sale through the end of April 2024 on their website with my discount code to see fridge review click here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6HYYZ-PfqyJgMUsi=4PXiwBsaKXB-UEe5 Link to BougeRV's website: bit.ly/3PolgPo 20% OFF discount code:Heatherhikes Expiry date: April 30 **As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it! Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used: Jackery 240 Power Station: amzn.to/3wIiHgX Jackery 1000 Power Station: amzn.to/3lzmMyP Bluetti EB70S Power Station (800W inverter with 716Wh): amzn.to/3nhu0ft Shower bag: amzn.to/39LSDtM cup holder phone stand for watching TV: amzn.to/3Kk6veY disposable female urinals (Travel Jane): amzn.to/3EGHebl urinal/reusable no spill bottle: amzn.to/3Z3lWMM portable DVD player: amzn.to/3lLyZ70 Luci Light inflatable solar lantern: amzn.to/3YXvJ6U set of mini cooking utensils: amzn.to/3IdBlTD Lunatec pressurized water bottle: amzn.to/3KBgXyX macrame fruit hammock/bag: amzn.to/3lOlwLT Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp: amzn.to/3lHxBCl cup holder inverter: amzn.to/41bpluz bamboo breakfast tray: amzn.to/3GiXM8Q Hot Logic Mini: amzn.to/3YD1YbV Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle: amzn.to/413y6qF low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle: amzn.to/3YD96EV Aeropress coffee maker: amzn.to/3lLFKG5 handheld battery powered milk frother: amzn.to/3kat7DV mesh window screens: amzn.to/3GiXSxe magnetic window curtains: amzn.to/3G8TqAW metal utility shelf: amzn.to/3wF2tXp trunk storage unit: amzn.to/3wBFNXY Insulated cooler bag: amzn.to/38FK6IG ergonomic gel memory foam seat cushion: amzn.to/3wBLNjg boot scraper: amzn.to/3z1eaJc side slot cup holders: amzn.to/3wC6IS0 hands free phone cup holder stand: amzn.to/3sTLHS1 hands free phone dash mount: amzn.to/3G8Uvsu USB LED light bulb: amzn.to/3yVudZc stained glass "rainbow" decals: - phases of the moon: amzn.to/3WBaxm9 - mandalas: amzn.to/3hJXlfF magic mesh screen doors: amzn.to/41OXq3x mosquito netting: amzn.to/44aPhrU Folding camp table (aluminum): amzn.to/37GGGF2 Coleman Camp Chair: amzn.to/3L52sQg 1.5" memory foam topper: amzn.to/3EfMQZS Luci solar string lights: amzn.to/46mPF6X Mosaic solar lantern: amzn.to/3LDJpjb large storage hamper: amzn.to/3OVtO0S storage bins with bamboo lids: amzn.to/3oCcfbC chargeable hang led color change light amzn.to/41a5IUm rechargeable LED table lamp: amzn.to/3x2SYDG
@annaroberts39768 ай бұрын
I am so glad that you were able to do as much as you did on this trip. I know it's not anywhere near what you were previously able to do, but it was a lot. That water is absolutely beautiful. I do have to admit though... Monkeys freak me out. I am sorry that you didn't find any for yourself though. It is heartbreaking to see you struggling, and to have some idea of the emotions that you are probably experiencing. It is so scary and overwhelming. But, Heather, you are doing all the right things for yourself. Try to stay as positive as you can, knowing full well that that is impossible to do at all times. You have positive thoughts and prayers being sent to you from me and so many other people.❤
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you Anna, as always I appreciate you and your perspective! 💚💚
@lanaadams74258 ай бұрын
Heather it was a beautiful video. I appreciate the way you coordinate the music with the video. That is an amazing park. Sending you stretgh and blessings❤
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
It really is a beautiful place, I love it there! I wish I could have shown more of the variety of the different trails and ecosystems there, and the boat tour!
@BonnieMartin-s7s8 ай бұрын
Prayers continue
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
💚
@sherrylovenguth6578 ай бұрын
Sending prayers. Hang tough, love your videos❤
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much!
@KaiExploresLife8 ай бұрын
The mist coming off that water was so pretty. The water was so clear. Congratulations on 2 miles. I enjoy hearing about the history.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
It's my favorite time to visit a spring... on a cold quiet morning when all the mist and steam is rising off the water. It's so peaceful to me! 💚
@KaiExploresLife8 ай бұрын
@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures I hope things are emotionally better for you today. I enjoyed your whole video. It’s ok to release your tears. Take care friend💜
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
@@KaiExploresLife thank you my perceptive and sweet friend. I'd like to say things have gotten better since that wobbly ending, but instead I'll just say "they will be" 💚
@TravelingGamer_8 ай бұрын
Awwww dont cry, you did good. 2 MILES! 💪
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank youuu!! 💚
@d.robinson91778 ай бұрын
Hi Heather 😊. Thanks for continuing to share the breathtaking scenery. And yes, you have said how beautiful the water is 😁. Heather, I've gotta ask: do you ever think about snakes and alligators when you're out camping? Have you ever seen any?
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
I haven't ever had any alligators right at my campsite (that I know of lol) but I did have one pretty close by at the Monument Lake Campground down in Big Cypress! I do see alligators frequently in other parts of the parks and trails though. Snakes, not as often, but I do cross paths with them from time to time or see them on or near trees off of the trails. There was actually one time I almost stepped right on a dusky pygmy rattlesnake while hiking with my mom once years ago when I was just starting to hike! 😳😳 That lesson taught me to always make sure to scan the path in front of me before looking up/around again lol!!
@teresabrossett26418 ай бұрын
My home town again. 🤗🙏🏻
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
💕
@d.robinson91778 ай бұрын
I prayed for you, Heather. Keep being real and authentic. Keep being the you we love to watch. 💕
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you! 💚
@TaraYanta8 ай бұрын
I visited Silver Springs many moons ago and it was absolutely stunning. The glass bottom boat was most memorable. Beautiful scenery Heather. Took me back to my youth.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
The glass bottom boats really are a cool experience!! I love this park
@robynshore79428 ай бұрын
What a beautiful place. Thank you so much for sharing it with us! 😍 You should be so proud of yourself but please dont over do it!
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! You are right about not overdoing it!
@JimGalyon8 ай бұрын
Hey Heather! Another great video. I noticed your a lefty! Us fellow lefties notice these things. 😉
@juliehoot39168 ай бұрын
Lefty too! 👍
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you! I sure am! 💚
@danialyiglesias8 ай бұрын
So grateful for all you share and the joy you bring me and others. You are so sweet and wishing you good things and results. Thank you for keeping it real. Your videos are wonderful.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much, I appreciate it!
@survivaljulia98618 ай бұрын
Heather at about 7:27 to 7:29 on the right hand side of the last palm tree showing in the water , it looks like you may have captured a picture of a monkey before it went to the next frame. I ended up taking a screenshot and it is definitely some kind of animal. You might had gotten a good , quick picture after all. The monkey or ? , was not moving just looking . I t took me about five tries of rewinding thru those few second’s to get the good screenshot to show it was animal. Now I’m going to finish watching your video. It is beautiful and thank you for all you do❤. I hope I found a surprise for you. ❤😊
@survivaljulia98618 ай бұрын
I paused a 7:33 and saw it pretty clearly. Keeping my fingers crossed to see if you think it is.
@survivaljulia98618 ай бұрын
Oh rats maybe not…😳😥
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
It's definitely possible, that is a spot they're known to hang out! I didn't see it when I played it back slow, but that doesn't mean it wasn't there! I'll tell myself you were right 😉🤞
@JUANORQUIO8 ай бұрын
WoW! That’s Lovely! Cheers for more awesome and incredible adventures!
@survivaljulia98618 ай бұрын
Lupper…that’s what we call lunch and supper.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
I'm good with lupper lol! 💕
@deborahhuckaby46238 ай бұрын
My family and I have been to Silver Springs and ridden on the glass bottom boats. It was fun and pretty. We didn't see any monkeys while there. It's a beautiful park. Congratulations on the 2 miles. You have a right to be proud of yourself. You know Heather, you have a right to be filled with so many different emotions concerning your illness. Not having answers must be so hard. It would be for anyone, so never be ashamed to share your feelings. Anyone going through all you've gone through would feel the same way. It's just human nature to be worried and scared. I will continue praying for you. Have a great day. Oh, and I'm glad to hear I'm not the only person that says linner. Not sure if that's the correct spelling. Lol
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
The glass bottom boats really are neat, and a must do at least once I think!! Thank you so much! 💕💕
@juliehoot39168 ай бұрын
Hi Heather, ANOTHER great video! Its ok to be anxious. Its ok to cry! 2 miles! Wow! Its gonna be ok! 🙏🐒💗
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you Julie!! 💕
@tvc-u4v8 ай бұрын
Cheers! 😄Nice to see you happy!
@kirstenstrobel43878 ай бұрын
You did a lot on this adVANture. With all you’ve been going through, panic seems like the right emotion for the occasion. Next time you’ll catch the monkeys. Small victories add up!
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you, my friend!!
@LifeWithMicheleSilver8 ай бұрын
What beautiful scenery 💚 I drink the same coffee creamer 😊
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
I was pleasantly surprised with it - it's yummy! Thank you, it really was a beautiful spot!
@Kimbers588 ай бұрын
Heather yes it's ok to cry or be anxious, You've been going through alot and I Continued Praying for you 🙏♥️ It's also fantastic that you can get out enjoy and do some walking, 2 miles even! Good for you! Your food looked delicious. I watch Stephanie Harlow too and love her intro😊 Nice parks you go to.. Take care Heather and Stay Strong ❤
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much! And yes! Such a good intro ☕️🎶🎶
@cheryld-19617 ай бұрын
I'm a Floridian and lived all over the state but presently living just south of Palatka in Crescent City near Lake George and down the street from the St Johns River.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures7 ай бұрын
That's a nice little area there! Hi fellow Floridian!!
@JimGalyon8 ай бұрын
Have a good weekend, Heather!
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thanks, Jim, you too!
@SuziQuzi97258 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you so much!
@Cindy-fc6rh8 ай бұрын
Heather- what did you cook your eggs on?
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
I used my Dezin electric pot for those too! I just put the potatoes and sausage on a plate while I cooked them up last!
@tammy91628 ай бұрын
Suggestion... "Research all the Ingredients on Labels" of Everything you Eat. Please. 😊
@juliehoot39168 ай бұрын
Her cooking pans too. Lots of chemicals in non stock. Stainless steel the best!
@tammy91628 ай бұрын
@@juliehoot3916 💯 & best use is cast iron & Glassware
@MegaSusanc8 ай бұрын
I appreciate you telling us your journey. You may not know it, but you really do inspire us well, Me anyway, "but I'm sure you inspire more than just me" you give me courage to move forward and to feel like I can do this, "I'm a survivor" that I will make it through even if the doctors put a scare into me. They did the phlebotomy and I am going to go into surgery with a positive attitude and know that I have God with me. Thank you. You are awesome beautiful. KEEP ADVENTURING GOD BLESS YOU PS, I'm scared too. You are in my prayers sweetie.
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you! Wishing you the best of luck on your procedure today!! 💕💕
@tammy91628 ай бұрын
Hi Heather, what are aLL your Coffee equipment and where'd you purchase them?
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Amazon for everything pretty much. I use a small 300W kettle usually to boil my water (stainless inside) and then I use my Aeropress (which is similar to a pour over and French press combined, and super easy to clean) to make the coffee.
@Cindy-fc6rh8 ай бұрын
If you pay for the campground is there another charge to get into the park?
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
No, if you're camping there, admission is covered - you just have to show your camp/parking tag and they'll let you in!
@juliehoot39168 ай бұрын
Hi Heather, my comment went to LA LA land. If you get it twice, I apologize. Old phone. It's okay to have anxiety and cry. You are going through alot. It's going to be okay! You are doing amazing and will continue to do so. Do you have something to scare off a wild bore or whatever? I hike and I carry a small yaught horn. It is LOUD, but very small and easy to pack, to scare something away, hopefully. I don't want to hurt anything even if it wants to hurt me. Mace, in case too. Thank you for another GREAT VIDEO!
@juliehoot39168 ай бұрын
I found it. So sorry! Oh well. Comments help your channel! 👍
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures8 ай бұрын
Thank you Julie! I do have a whistle in my backpack and fanny pack, and I do carry bear spray usually as well. Luckily the times I've encountered wild hogs on the trail they either took off away from me as fast as possible, or ignored my presence alltogether and continued on their way rooting up everything. The only time I was ever really nervous though, was when I was hiking with my parents in Yellowstone and Grand Tetons and we would come across grizzly tracks and scat that we could tell were super fresh. Then we all actually had our bear spray out and ready to use just in case those times!
@-miekeb-4 ай бұрын
I saw monkeys in India... they have big theeth 😁 Hope your doing well today! Thanks and Greetings 👋
@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures4 ай бұрын
Their teeth really are intimidating! I wouldn't want to upset one!!