How I Was Able To Start Traveling Full Time | Going from homeless to full-time digital nomad.

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[@paulbauswellsr3296]

I haven't left a comment here in a long time, but I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate this video. I have watched you hint some about your past before. But to really lay yourself out there, took tremendous courage on your part. I am 65yrs old you are probably closer to my granddaughters age. And I just wanted you to know that, I AM SO VERY PROUD OF THE YOUNG LADY YOU HAVE BECOME. Keep it real and enjoy life, give Joey a snack and a good hug for me. See ya

[@MyBasicJourney]

Thank you, Paul!

[@denisem1632]

Thanks Paul, that is everything I would say, watch but rarely post. I'm 58 and she's close to my daughters age. Wish you continued success and happiness. Be safe and Take care. 🙂

[@marnitawilliams9108]

I'm also 61 and I love your channel and so appreciate you. Thank you.

[@ashleywashington83]

Well I’m 67 years old and every Sunday I look forward to watching your videos. One question please, how did you come to find Joey and how long have you had him?? Thank you so much for sharing your life with us.

[@MariafromthePhilippineIslands]

@@ashleywashington83 She had explained that in her previous video. Joey was given to her by a family friend when Joey was a puppy. And they had been together from Illinois to Oregon until Vanlife kicked in.

[@MaryAmesMitchell]

HONEY! So proud of you. You did a fabulous job with this video. I'm 71. My father lived his last 10 years homeless. I would be homeless now if my mum hadn't left me money to pay off my house. You are lovely and graceful. Thanks for sharing your strength. Big cyber hugs.

[@seventhdayissabbath8747]

Without the grace of God and your sobriety it would have been hard to move forward like you did, glad it worked out for you!

[@hshalom9113]

God is sooo good. Always ready & willing to help in our time of need. ✡︎✝

[@LydiaKrow]

What's so important about your story is how you reached out for help, ACCEPTED that help, and you worked HARD to achieve the goals you set for yourself. There is no shame in accepting help if you are doing it to uplift yourself. And now you are giving back by sharing your story and uplifting others. Your personality alone has attracted admirers and people who come for the good vibes. Keep fighting, you deserve your good fortune.

[@sonjathomas4129]

Ll)l

[@sonjathomas4129]

)please)l))l)l

[@trippin6118]

If I was your mom I would be so proud of you. You faced such hardship but managed to figure it out and not give up. You are a great example for others. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@shanniwelsh133]

You are part of the community of women that helps me to overcome fear and anxiety as I travel in my van with my pups. Your amazing positive vibe and your level approach to overcoming the challenges you encounter is literally the baseline I strive for. Thanks for being that person! I always tell my kids that you will know when you are in your life’s purpose because all the little things along your journey will support and guide you through the learning periods. You are a perfect example of this flow. ❤

[@allisonboston5738]

We have a lot in common, Chantelle. I’m twelve years clean but still struggle with my mental health at times. I hope you are incredibly proud of yourself. 💜

[@jessys9868]

Wow Chantelle! You kind of blew me away this morning. I actually knew a great deal of your story since I’ve been with you since your van build. I also love to hear the testimonials of people who were helped by the system and were grateful for it. So many people are out there doing as little as I can to get as much as they can, but not you. I admire you greatly for your perseverance. And your videos have come such a long way. I don’t know if you’ll ever do another camp host job, but I like those videos very much. Keep your videos coming! Many of us look for that first thing.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Yesss. Jessy!! You've been here for so long. I remember from my earlier videos. Thank you. 💖💖💖

[@donnac9642]

I'm not much on comments but I wanted to let you know you are an inspiration to alot of us. I have shared your videos and asked many to subscribe and support you because you are the real deal. To come from being homeless to making a living doing what you love is amazing. I know your mom is very proud of you as well as all of your subscribers and patrons. You are doing great!!!

[@HoneyandMe]

Yours is an amazing story, Chantel (Chantelle?). Not only your own journey, but the people who were brought into your life to assist and encourage you. Very inspirational. My question is...where does Joey fit into this story?

[@MyBasicJourney]

I got Joey when he was a 10 week old puppy almost 10 years ago. He has been by my side through everything. 🐕💖

[@tammymccune2016]

Wow, I have a Toyota Corolla!¡!!, You are a brave, beautiful woman! THANKYOU. My total inspiration!!!!

[@DovieRuthAuthor]

Tears in my eyes. Lump in my throat. It’s amazing how divine right action has manifested in your life. ❤

[@deborahg4599]

Good for you and for taking you life back! My husband wasn’t strong enough and he passed away from alcoholism. You go girl!! 💕

[@thelmahenriques6454]

So sorry about your husband.

[@MyBasicJourney]

I am so sorry for your loss, Deborah. 💔

[@deborahg4599]

@@MyBasicJourney ❤️Stay strong!! You’re young and life can be beautiful! Especially in what we do, the nomadic life! I’m going on 3 years now! 😎

[@sandramcmillan4200]

I’m sorry for your loss.

[@simplyroamfree]

This is something I needed to hear. I'm stuck on trying to get a better rig.. but my toyota sienna is good enough. 👍

[@sheilacaine3962]

I’m so happy you shared your story. I’m 64 and want to live this way so bad. Now I know there is hope. One of my destinations is Arizona because I don’t like the cold either. I’m glad you and Joey are happy. ❤❤

[@juliecastagnaro2868]

Bob Wells on Cheap RV Living gives advice on how do do it.

[@Cotafaye]

I watch your channel and Im 64 living in a rv in Arizona boondocking in Quartzsite for the 1st time during the season. Boonedocking here in the long term season is $180 from Sept 15th-April 15th including a dump station, fresh water and trash in Laposa South. I cant afford to travel and spend money so I move to various locations in Quartzsite long terms and meetup with others for events. Potlucks, joke night, campfires etc.... and subscribe to channels here. So as far as this channel with her basic Journey goes, is one of my stepping stones that has broadened my horizons with my journey to here as a snowbird for the winter. Im here living the dream I didn't even know about. Thank you! Love you and Joey. I dont have much funds but if we all send what we can afford that would be wonderful. So, I will send $5 to start it off and maybe someone can match it.

[@juliecastagnaro2868]

@@Cotafaye can you camp host to earn more money?

[@fragilechords5118]

I totally love the thumbnail of Joey with the van in the background! It made me realize, you need to do a Calendar! You have had so many great thumbnails in the past (like the one looking out from the cave) and have been to so many beautiful places. The Calendar would be amazing. And of course you could have your wonderful artwork throughout. 🌷 🙂 🐕

[@EM-mi5yj]

Thanks for sharing your story. I subscribed to your channel in 2021, and didn’t know your story. However, I knew you were a genuine, caring, compassionate person (that’s why I like your channel). Your path in life is amazing and you survived. Not many people have or can survive what you went through. You’re a testament to others, even though you might not think so and probably wasn’t meant to be. 🙏🏾❤️God Bless.

[@Banagal]

Thanks for sharing your success story. You certainly gave us all so much to think about and I'm sure will reach many that need help have hope. First, girl you ROCK! You have drive and creativity to reach out, trust strangers, and reach goals and security. So many people would love to live in their van and travel. Vans and cars, even used ones, have become so expensive now yet continue to open the doors of happiness for many. I'm so happy to have found your channel and am able to share in your success story. Happy van trails to you and Joey. Hugs!

[@kathleenh3975]

“Adults need a village.” You’re so right. We all need a village.

[@SBsHappyLittleCloud]

You have inspired me since 2020! I love you! I start my dream of van life in March 2023 and you are a big reason why. Sobriety is a gift and a struggle. You are a very strong woman. Keep doing you!!!

[@antoniobaez6282]

Respect 💯👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🙌🏾💪🏾👊🏾🤞🏾🙏🏾 You are the perfect person to help pay it forward. And in a lot of ways you are with your channel! I think you should do a comprehensive e-book of your travels. I think their is a audience for that, even for non-full timers.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Thank you, Antonio! I appreciate it. 💖

[@gigievans395]

I so appreciate your candor and honesty. Congratulations on being sober, HUGE courage there gf! 💯 I too hv been trying to get on the road for 3 years, but am plagued with severe health issues stemming from a Neck fusion that failed in 2019 (2nd surgery after initial fusion in 2018!? followed by an auto accident where I was re-ended 7 months after cervical fusion) Recovering is STILL happening 😭 I am determined to get into my Nomad life at 57 this month! Selling my classic RV n moving into a trk n canopy due to disability. My family n friends DO NOT understand!? I also suffer from SAD living in the Pacific Northwest 😭 Don't ever give up! U ARE PROOF OF DREAMS BEING ATTAINABLE! STAY STRONG AND BE WISE! Keep on TRUCKIN gf!! ❤️👍💯🔥🌞🌻See ya down the road!! ❤️ SO PROUD OF U! I know my pup n I do SOOO MUCH BETTER on the road 👍

[@tracker5849]

You are a very strong young lady!!! Been thru soooo much hardship yet came out on top!!! You have worked very hard and totally deserve to live your dream!!! You have a good life now and a wonderful Joey to love and share your new life. YOU ARE AWESOME AND AMAZING!!! PRAYING YOU HAVE NOTHING BUT HEALTH AND HAPPINESS!!!!! I am so proud of you!!!!! Living your dream in a peaceful beautiful life. I know not everyday is great....8 out of 10 are

[@MyBasicJourney]

💖💖💖😍 Thank you!

[@annc5298]

OMG! Respect due! You should feel very very proud of all that you have been able to overcome and of all of your achievements in spite of all the adversities. A silver lining message for me is to go and get the gallstones surgery as soon as possible. I as of right now, I am recovering from a gallbladder inflammation episode due to stones. I opted-out of surgery and committed to a healthier lifestyle until I get certain things in order in my life. But listening to your story, I get my message to hurry up. Thanks for sharing!

[@eh5945]

Beautiful shots of the desert! I've been watching your videos since you started your van build and I've enjoyed them immensely. Lovely to hear about how the universe stepped up, kept you safe and sent you on your way. Happy trails!

[@susansmith2969]

Oh, Chantelle, you made this old woman cry! I've followed you for a couple of years now, watching your channel grow. I'm so happy for you and the joy you have found. Thank you for sharing, sweet lady. Hugs.

[@sylviarodriguez2253]

I love this video !! I am 15 days sober free from a DV relationship, I moved to the country and live vicariously thru your page ...lol I have told you before your so brave , today I mean that. I needed to hear what you said today ,I have cone so far in the last few weeks and am pushing. Your amazing I turn 46 in a few days and am so obsessed with van life.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Thank you so much, Sylvia!! You got this, girlfriend! Hopefully I'll see you on the road some day. 💖

[@sylviahill9973]

Thanks for sharing your journey. Bob Wells talks about how being in Nature is healing, and it sounds like this has been true for you. I have a storeroom and a Sienna minivan that I am living out of in the city. It's getting more and more crowded and busy here and I have the urge to get in my van and take off...

[@TheFlutterrbye]

🦋❣🦋I'm now a great gramma and your about my granddaughters age. Just wanted to say that I'm very proud of you. Because I grew up in the foster care system of Connecticut, began my life with nothing including not even knowing my family, I know your struggle, my life is so much better now. But as a grandmother, I'm so very proud of you ❣😊❣😊😊🦋🦋

[@samanthadodd8112]

Getting sober and letting life hit u with all those thing right after getting sober, and u didn't go back to drinking had to be so hard. I'm so proud of ur strength and how u challenge urself to do what u have always dreamed of. I always watch u 1st thing Sunday morning. U r one of my favorite vanlifer.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Sam, (is that a common/acceptable nick name?) I just want to say thank you. You've been here with me for a long time and it's very appreciated!

[@samanthadodd8112]

@@MyBasicJourney Please do call me that, my friends do. U r welcome. Looking forward to ur winter in the desert.

[@blucollar8121]

The bottom line is we all need each other, most of us can appreciate your humbleness and sharing your story. We all have a story and without the grace of God working through others a lot of us would not be here.

[@pjdemario1328]

Thank you for being so open about your story. It will be helpful to many people. Wishing you continued success in all you do🌞

[@ThatWhichISee]

Thank you Lord. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. This is truly your testimony. To think just stepping away from one thing that kept you from going forward; made everything else fall into place, to get you to where you wanted to be. Those are tears of joy and gratitude. Thank you Lord.

[@mauricepowers3804]

I truly love your story and that you shared it with everybody!!!! Getting sober changed my life as well

[@lynnerussell1440]

You should be so proud of your decisions. When all that happened, you could have turned back to substances to cope, but you did the work. Yes, you had help, but YOU did the work. Congratulations 🎊 👏 💐

[@caroljohnson5578]

I've been watching your channel since the days of the shelter. I admire you and love being part of your life in this small way. I intend to be on the road someday in my Toyota Sienna and you constantly inspire me. I love little Joey, he is the cutest. Keep doing what you're doing Chantelle, I'll be here watching and maybe just maybe, I'll see you on the road someday :)

[@meglange3595]

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[@meglange3595]

Woops. Phone acting up and accidently sent. 😁

[@MyBasicJourney]

Omg! Carol, I love that you've been with me for so long!! Thank you! 💖

[@danesba1]

Carol, me too! Have watched you, Chantelle, since camp host! 61 years old and time is flying by. I've got to finally go! Last Feb I traded in my aging Jeep for a.......yup you guessed it........a caravan! You've really been an inspiration to me. I pray for you and Joey often, and I hope to get out there, go and maybe even meet you!!

[@donedennison9237]

We're social critters and need each other. I love it about Oregon that we have a social safety net. I'm so proud of you for getting sober and embracing caring for yur mental health. I enjoy watching you adventure.

[@larendawhitaker1646]

You have grown so much through the years. I love your videos. My dream is to travel in a van. Thanks for sharing 🙂💞

[@bonriver9420]

I am so impressed by your strength and determination to take control of your life and make it better. You have had quite the journey and you are in such a good place now. Wishing you all the best. I am sure that your story will inspire many people. Sending you love and prayers for continued success.

[@deeplansandbudgets]

Particularly loved the comment "it blew me away that when I was at my poorest I had the best healthcare of my life" So true. It does indeed take a village and everyone needs one.

[@BobLHedd]

Wow, what courage laying yourself out like this. Alcoholism and homelessness are also part of my story. I'm going to watch your older videos, because I have a minivan and want to travel. Thank you for sharing.

[@margaretspringer9197]

Hey, Chantelle -- thanks so much for the honest and courageous share! I, too, have been watching since what I now realize were the shelter, beginning-van-build days, and have had a lifelong van-life fantasy (I'm now 78!). I was lucky enough to travel the west car-camping for many years -- still haven't gotten a van, but I live the life vicariously through you and occasionally others. Special kudos for staying sober all this time...Long may you run! P.S. I live in Eugene, too.

[@rendaf9003]

On November 1st my RV was totaled by an 18-wheeler. Thankfully, my dog, named Poopy, and I are safe. It was on the one year anniversary of starting my nomad life. Since then, blessings have been pouring out.

[@meandPoo]

Wow. Thanks for sharing. I started watching you when you were a camp host. You have come a long way. I luv your videos. Congrats

[@melissacoburn6873]

Oh gosh I started watching you right when you were doing the camping host thing. You've inspired me a ton! That's one of the things I want to do when I start going places for the winter. I've got my shuttle bus ,it's pretty much finished. I just need to tweak it a little bit more. And I was just thinking about renting my house out as a Airbnb so I can get away from the cold but I'm not going to be doing this until I'm retired all the way. I'm glad you made your channel you're such an inspiration. And you are one of the best photographers out there! I guess I should say video graphers, lol! I am so very happy you are sober and happy happy happy! You are living the dream for sure.. ❤️

[@juliehanson1364]

Omg…you had me in tears. I LOVE YOUR STORY! I wish I had a daughter like you….. You are amazing. An inspiration. God bless you and Joey. Love to hear how you came to have your wonderful fur baby.❤❤❤

[@jsvensson8234]

You're lovely. Just lovely . In every way. I'm so grateful to have found your channel and to be invited along for the ride that is your life. Thank you 🙏You bring me joy, hope and inspiration and I am ever so grateful . Wish you safe and happy travels and lots n lots of joy💕

[@freedomexplorer360]

Yes, I have been with ya since your start. I am so thankful for YOU!! I have been going through alot AND your videos helped ME!! Your videos have been the constant uplift in some dark days. Give Joey a hug!! Thanks again!!

[@tracker5849]

Question....when did you get Joey? How old is he? Who cared for him when you were in hospitol? We need a brief Joey story also. Please. YOU are a beautiful young lady and deserve the BEST life. YOU ARE A MAJOR INSPIRATION TO SO MANY.

[@tynitahaines4012]

Don't ever say that you came from nothing. We all struggle with and through something . Thank God for your blessings. You are a blessing. AMEN.

[@Donley76]

Happy for you. It's so satisfying to build a world just right for yourself.

[@antoniobaez6282]

And good job on staying sober!

[@patticarter8436]

I'm 52 and enjoy your channel. I have lupus and a few other health problems and am not able to travel or camp often. I'm truly appreciative of those adventures with my husband and family. But I'm also so thankful for people like you that share your adventures with us out here in KZbin land. It's so great to be able come open your channel when I am sick and not getting out much, and follow you and Joey around. You are a bright ray of sunshine and you are a blessing to so many people. 💜💛

[@crazylady..]

💕👍🤗You go girl! You've come so far, and grown so much, since I started watching you. Now you are entering a new plane , as you become the, wise woman that you are meant to be.. 😊 We all have lessons to learn and mistakes to make. And some never take that first step or leap, like you did. You have much to be proud of! Yet, you can still be greatful for the help that you've received. And you are very right, all things happen for reasons, and it can be as simple as, watching a great video! Thank you for sharing your story time! 😊👍 💕👏🍀🌹🐕Joey deserves a hug too, for all the smiles he's created in your days🐶 Enjoy your days 🐾🐾👣🤸🙋

[@crazycatlady7190]

💕💕💕 going through the very tough times makes us appreciate the good life. Getting sober is very hard to accomplish. I feel like God has a plan for all of our lives. He allows me to make the mistakes so that I can learn from them and be a better human and maybe help someone else. Your story does this. It surely will help someone else. Hope to see you in the road someday. 💕💕💕

[@belindaknowles7440]

Thank you for sharing you story. It is so awesome that you made the decision to get sober and then did it. You are an amazing, beautiful young woman. I enjoy your videos and look forward to them every week💕

[@celestepalm6949]

One thing you always had Chantelle, that not everyone does is that you always knew what you wanted in life. There's tons of people out there that don't know what they want, let alone know how to work towards getting it. That's a struggle that can take people years, even decades to figure out. So Congrats on Living Your Dream Now!

[@allysonhermann2415]

I think your story is a perfect example of that wonderful quote by Thoreau, "...if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours..."

[@MishkamyadorablelittleYorkie]

I have been with you since you first started your channel. I started my channel because of you . Me and my dog mishka love you and Joey. You to realize that you know you don’t need to have lunch. Your a very lovely girl and don’t ever give up. I’m older and you and Joey are part of my family even though we have never met . Lovely person watch her videos ..misty

[@BuckJones1909]

It’s wonderful to hear of a journey full of positivity during these difficult times!! Thank you!!

[@jennacotton]

I'm so proud of you for getting sober! I've been sober since 2014 and it was the best choice I've ever made. Thanks for sharing your journey 💜

[@nancycain4434]

I start watching your KZbin channel when you are a camp host in Oregon. You are an amazing young lady.

[@florasonners1635]

I never comment on your channel but I've been a faithful watcher since the beginning of the pandemic. I hear my boyfriend talking during his zoom AA meetings and I hear him mention the miracles that happen when a person gets sober. You are a prime example of that.

[@cathyjay2569]

You are not the only one crying now. Your story is so heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. I AM SO PROUD OF YOU! Getting sober is not easy. I was addicted to pain pills and wine. Everything is better when you’ve seen the other side and have been delivered from that life! God bless you, precious lady! BTW I’m a 63 yo grandmother now. Stuff still happens, but life is so beautiful when you look through new eyes! Love to you❤ and Joey🐾~TN Nana

[@SilviaMartinez-sr9po]

Hola Chantelle, me emociona verte, soy tu seguidora desde que comenzaste a arreglar tu van, y me has acompañado en mi proceso de jubilación, la enfermedad de mi mamá, los problemas de la vida diaria, la pandemia, me encanta ver los paisajes que compartes, tus paseos con Joey, aún tengo esperanza de obtener una van, viajar y disfrutar de la vida diaria, gracias por ser y estar y compartir tu vida, bendiciones.

[@jaimeyurich6385]

Your story is so inspiring to so many. Thank you for sharing your story and being honest and from the heart. You have a pure soul and I am so happy I found you on KZbin.

[@soniamozek3085]

It’s amazing how strong us women are. The older I get the more I realize it. Sometimes I look back at all the shit I’ve been through and still going through but am still functioning and making it. I wonder how I made it out alive. While I see others crumble at the slightest inconvenience. Women are powerful you are powerful. You’re so right about how sometimes you just have to go through a bunch of shit in order to get to the good parts. I’m still waiting for my good part to happen but in the meantime doing everything in my power to be ready for it. Thanks for sharing. Love your channel.

[@ang3lbass]

I love this story ❤ I knew you got sober, but everything between that and getting your van I did not know so I wasn’t aware of the full journey you’ve been on! I will say though, that I definitely wouldn’t have my van now if it wasn’t for your channel. When you couldn’t find a cargo van that fit the bill, so you got a minivan and just made that work, the I CAN DO THIS lightbulb lit up. I still have a house to pay for while my 21yo gets herself established so I can’t travel that much right now, but I explore close to home whenever possible and I did get to take one five week cross country road trip this year. It was a dream come true, and you are the biggest influence in that journey for me. ❤

[@MyBasicJourney]

💖💖💖

[@curious1366]

Wow! I remember seeing your first "van-life" videos. Just one or 2 of them. I especially remember one from the camp hosting days. You have taken me on a journey as well. At first, I saw your sweet young self and I thought that I had nothing in common with you. Over the last 3 years, I have gradually realized that I have a lot in common with you in some ways. I feel so proud of how far you've come. I feel that I've watched you grow up! I now realize how much you have overcome; how much you've been through. You should be really proud of yourself! Much respect to you! Journey on!

[@JeffeysMom]

I am a disabled senior which I am sure I have mentioned in the past. I travel in my wheelchair 2010 dodge grand caravan with my four Chihuahuas for suicide awareness. I always love watching your videos. I hope to go back to a high top full-size van One day or even better a mini bus with a wheelchair lift. But I understand living on a tight budget. At one point I was homeless with children living in a tent doing Campground hosting many many years ago. My husband at the time then got Disability from work accident and we were able to buy a motorhome. I am now divorced and I own a tiny cabin on 6 acres outside Palestine Texas. ❤ I love your van build! You and Joey are a pleasure to watch

[@zkat13]

I have been watching your channel for a really long time. I feel like you are a prime example of someone that knew they were in trouble and thankfully were smart enough to follow through with the opportunities offered. You were certainly an inspiration for the minivan life for me. I found your channel while I was in the midst of chemotherapy treatment for my cancer. (Seems like end of 2018 was tough for both of us.) This year I have been getting myself back to myself. I wish you good things. I hope you stay well.

[@micheledavis3735]

Your mom and dad must be so proud of you. Being an addict is a one way journey into desperation if you're lucky and death if you're unable to change. I had several failed back surgeries and the surgeon kept giving me more and more pain meds and I was convinced I needed them. I very nearly died twice because of the horrible gut wrenching depression I faced. If I had not told that doctor no more...I'd not be here today. You inspire me with each video and the way you meet the challenges you're thrown is uniquely you. The way you saved that precious pup was unbelievable but I'd expect nothing less of you. I began watching you as you began your camp hosting and I was eager for every video. I feel like I'd be a similar slow traveler because I feel it's time to actually savour life and that's exactly what you and Joey are doing. You've met family of choice on the road and they've done the same with you. You're so worthwhile, I hope you know that. If you're the real deal you cannot hide it...nor can you hide if you are not. Peace to you, in all you do...

[@MyBasicJourney]

Thank you so much, Michelle! 💖💖💖

[@kristincadwell1844]

Everyone has a story, and you explaining what happened in yours was so insightful. I've enjoyed watching you and Joey share your van life. The appreciation you have for those that helped you is so special. Take care and I'll be looking forward to your next adventures.

[@coralieofjumpwithnofear]

I just want to say how much I love our thumbnail for this video, too. It’s such a cute pic of Joey, and it seems to sum up so much of what your life on the road with Joey is like.

[@shess1640]

The State of Oregon and the City of Eugene really came through for you….between your medical coverage, shelter, mental health support, etc. I’m glad you got your health back and you’re on your feet. Time to give back!

[@beekind466]

I remember the beginning...you were the inspiration for my little camper van. I lost my Dad then my brother then my Mom is just 2 years time. I needed a way to go camping solo and thought a van would be perfect. A lot of what I did is so much like what you did. I remember when you were just starting out and thinking by gosh, if she can do it, so can I. Now here we are both enjoying the light at the end of the tunnel. ✌🙋‍♀️❤

[@lindajcope]

I enjoyed your recap of your journey. I started watching your channel just before you had that camp host job and you helped me get through the isolation during the pandemic. I also purchased a mini van and did a diy build so I could go camping and get out without being in the public. I'm retired and on social security so don't have money for all the fancy builds. I'm very proud of you and how you took charge of your life by getting sober and accepted help when it was offered. You should be very proud also. Keep growing girl. I watch all of your posts.

[@julietackaberry5247]

Chantel, what a wonderful video! It is so nice to hear when the system works. Kudos to all the social workers, etc. that did their jobs and kudos to you for following through on your end to make it all work. To go through alcoholism and mental set backs and come up on top is just amazing to me. I hope you realize what a strong person you are. I started following you when you became the camp ground worker and didn't know your background. I feel like I know you and Joey. I look forward to your videos. And like many here in the comments I am older, 71 years old. Keep up the good work and tell Joey...good job...as I'm sure he has helped you immensely on you journey.

[@julialarson340]

You have helped me understand something I needed to work out within myself so thank you for speaking your truth to us all it is a breath of fresh air instead of showing us something that is a perfect life to make it seem better than what their life is. I believe I can learn from others you never know whose heart you will touch I wish you safe travels. Thank you

[@tillyg8858]

Thank you so much for you video. You worked through a hard time in your life. You walked away from alcohol which is very hard. I'm so proud of you and what you have accomplished in your young life. Your video will help many that are struggling today with job loss and it will get worse with companies laying off and shutting down. They are wondering how they are going to survive this economy downfall. Thank you. Stay happy, healthy and safe on your adventure.

[@jackkat8825]

You would not be here without God's help, grace and mercy. Praise God He protected and still protects you.

[@joantharp8973]

I continue to be inspired by your courage and vision in your approach to life. I too am an older camper 77 and I sometimes need to be reminded of the simple beauty of a sunrise and the pleasure of your sweet dogs smile. Keep up the good work and the videos about your life. These videos mean a lot to me.

[@imcallingshotgun_vanlife]

Thanks little one, for not giving up. Life is truly precious. Your testimony has inspired us. 🥰🥰🥰

[@melindamarie6139]

1st of all... CONGRATULATIONS 🎉!!!! Being in recovery is a daily job in itself! It's amazing what happens when you get clean!!! I have about 5 yrs n I've NEVER been happier or more grateful!!!! My story is so close to yours!! I have an old '98 Ford w a ton of issues but I love her and I'm so grateful everyday!!! I'm a total gypsy, hippie chick! I can't b happy in one place and I love this lifestyle! I'm so blessed and so grateful every moment of everyday because I was in a badddd place. I'm lucky to b alive!! Thank you for sharing your story, your such a huge inspiration! You always push forward n find a way. You have a huge heart, your so sweet, kind n funny!!! Sending love n light n appreciation!!! Hope to c ya on the road!!! ✌🏼🧡

[@chasingsimpledreams]

i also plan on traveling super slow too, to save money and pay off stuff. i'm currently at a rest area surrounded by semis, but you know what? it's free! and that is priceless. i have all my fur babies around me and feel loved. hugs to you and Joey.

[@sandygannon8552]

Good for you lady, God bless you. My daughter died in 2022 of alcoholism, she was54.. love following you

[@jeannerosen9024]

Thanks for sharing! I am 41 years sober. Sobriety allows the miracles to happen. Your gratitude and fortitude are beautiful. Thanks for being specific about your finances and l am happy you are able to support yourself doing something you love.

[@juliecueva7297]

I want you to know you rock! Thank you for your videos. Thank you for being real! ♥️

[@roseannarabia6461]

Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your story, I really needed to hear what you had to say. I won't go into the book of my life in comments, but just know that I felt every word you said and am SO happy for you. My life has been riddled since I was in the womb with trauma, drama, mental, emotional, and financial crisis and truly know the depth of everything you were saying. You're an inspiration and genuinely a good hearted person. Maybe someday we'll bump into each other out of the road and we can chat about vanlife and share some amazing stories together. Best wishes and love to you and Joey!

[@barbaragamache2751]

I've been waiting for this, need to go shopping but wanted to see your video first, love to you and Joey

[@lyndamcdougal3300]

Thank you for sharing your story with us, I know it wasn’t easy. You are inspirational and have overcome many difficulties, being so young. Your future looks good and I wish you and joey many more miles on the road. Love watching your travels every week, thank you. Xx

[@phosawelonewolf2886]

You have a good heart. God may not come when you need him. But he’s always on time. Keep a good attitude that will always be the key to your future. It’s not easy but the Creator will be there for you. Many Blessings💜❄️💜

[@JustNeil1]

Good for you! You made a wise decision to stop drinking and to get busy living! I had quit drinking over 22 years ago and couldn’t be happier about it. I’m 53 years young now and ready to begin life anew Nomad style that is!Well…for what it’s worth, I’m proud and envious of you. You’re doing what I eventually plan to do if the Lord wills it! So safe travels my dear. Keep your head up and continue to smile.

[@chasingsimpledreams]

i've watched you for years and seen how you have grown. so proud of you for doing what u do abs following your heart. and of course i love Joey. a friend of mine is sober now for almost five years (may 5th is the anniversary.) it has also changed his life so drastically. that alone is a huge accomplishment for you. i am now on the road too. have a truck and camper, two dogs, a senior cat. i hope our paths cross some day. you have such a big heart.

[@judyconway6149]

I am so blown away by this video and how amazing you are l have been sober since 6/22 1986 keep walk we have to tell our stories so others can have hope

[@teslah2997]

You should be veryproud of yourself, Chantelle! You got yourself into a bad spot by doing the drugs and alcohol, but…..YOU oulled yourself out of it.That takes strength and courage. You go, girl. Much love to you, and admiration

[@lisagardner9798]

Amazing story! I have watched your channel for a while but I never knew how you got started. Thank you for sharing! I really enjoy your content.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Awww! Well, thank you so much for being here with me! 💖

[@PattyShops.]

You have a very inspiring story and a lot of courage. I don’t think I have ever commented but I do watch and thumbs up your videos. Your story and your strength for telling it may encourage and help others and deep down In my heart of hearts I believe we are here to help each other. I am fascinated with van life and have been watching a lot of van lifers since 2020. I wish you much success in your journey. xoxo

[@dsimplysparky57]

I watch a lot of van dwellers. And you are an inspiration. I love your honesty and your heart-felt stories. Thank you for all that you do and say. God Bless you and Joey.

[@summerstardust2064]

Appreciate your testimony. Losing my job also sent me out on the road at age 53. Have been fulltime nomad going on 16 yrs. My only regret is not going nomad sooner. Happy trails.

[@kandelinaanderson817]

I also got sober 4yrs ago and moved into my moterhome and love it. Your not alone. Keep going. Sobriety is worth it.