My 5000 Mile Solo Road Trip to California

BONUS CONTENT / markemiller
ART PRINTS markedwardmill...
INSTAGRAM / marke_miller
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MOUNTAIN MERMAID themermaid.com/
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MUSIC
Moments / Tides by Gothic Babe
LE DÉPART by L'Impératrice
Aquellos Ojos Verdes by Mapache
Malibu by Archer
Canopée by Polo & Pan
Middy Tiddy by Paulie Leparik
I'm in Love with You by Neil Frances, Poolside
Hideaway by Karen O, The Kids

[@jmontesi]

Mark, I've been watching your videos for approximately 10 years. I've never commented until now. I'm compelled to comment now because I found this video particularly touching, and I'm just amazed at your growth, both as a person and content creator. While I know this is more of a video diary of sorts and not storytelling in the traditional sense, it feels like a high value documentary with gorgeous shots and captivating almost stream of consciousness commentary. You're a true inspiration, and I'm glad young gay men have such a positive role model to be influenced by. Thanks for sharing your gifts with all of us!

[@bmccuan]

I used to think a lot of us were broken. I used to think a lot of us were lost. But now I think a lot of us are just wandering and its incredibly humbling when you bump into someone else along the path.

[@thriftkingdom]

wow that is deep

[@phredeejr]

@@thriftkingdom I definitely felt that deeply

[@3506Dodge]

Who is "us"?

[@bmccuan]

@@3506Dodge People.

[@3506Dodge]

@@bmccuan You thought that a lot of human beings were "broken?!" That's an alarming view. Why did you think this?

[@StanChris]

you know its a good video when it makes you really feel something 👍🥹

[@kevintnorman]

The music, the editing, the shots, the vibes, the emotions 1000/10 ❤

[@nicKos_alex]

Yeah, this master piece reminds me of the Normal Heart and Call Me By Your Name and all the feelings I had first watching those movies.

[@lelandpeck4585]

A beautiful, nostalgic and touching video. The song at the end said it all. Mark, this must have been a challenge for you to go back and visit some of the same places. I'm sure you had some touching and heart felt remembrances of times past. Glad you met the challenge head on. Someone out there is going to be the happiest person alive when you two meet and fall in love. You deserve the best!!!

[@nevits14]

Yay movie time! 🍿🎥

[@TheLandOfJonny]

Your monologue's were giving me the essence of Baz Luhrmann - wear sunscreen, and Lana Del Rey - ride, for some reason :) This was a gem of capture of your trip!

[@wilsonsatan6838]

I can't believe it's been almost 8 years since I started following you but never leaving a comment. Your videos have consistently brought warmth and sunshine into my life. Whenever I feel lost or directionless, I tell myself to watch this man and learn from him. Your words in this veido have deeply resonated with me.I want to shar this quote I loved with you: "The stars are still there. We'll find our own way back to them." I believe that each and every one of us will ultimately find our own unique home.

[@Brunomlalves]

There’s something about the way you share your thoughts, it feels so familiar. From day one I feel like I know you. I bet I’m not the only one. Everything feels so light and joyful. I’m growing up with you and that feels weird and cool at the same time. It brings me joy to see how far you’ve come and how proud you are of your accomplishments. It truly feels good. Everyday is a great a day ☀️

[@mmrjmusic142]

we're all in this together. sometimes I think we're forced to believe that life has to suck, and it has to suck alone. thanks for finding a bridge for us all

[@sandyj8222]

Mark, I’ve been following you for years. I don’t expect to get a response from you. You always have so many comments. I just wanted to say I think you are such a positive person. When ever I feel down or just in a slump, I watch your video and you always make me smile. I love the way you look at life. I live in San Diego. I’m glad you got to get away and re boot. Looks like you had a great time. Take care. Be safe.🙏🏽❤️

[@AdamJMusic23]

Mark there is definitely a good argument for traveling & driving thru a country rather than flying over it.... You will always see & enjoy so much more. ❤

[@lighthouse66]

It is impossible not to admire and love this guy. Deeply. Passionately.

[@thesilverdragon1963]

So glad you had a chance to step away and enjoy a bit of a trip--you are absolutely right in being proud of yourself and what you have done over the last couple years. Stay safe, stay well, stay present….. and know that the universe loves you--including about 664000 of us who love being able to share in your journey🙂❤.

[@dantemiller175]

Every.single.time… it never fails that your videos make me feel something. Marke you make such art it is insane…. Even in your still photos I feel breath, life, happiness and joy, pain and just humanity. Don’t stop because you are literally making such an impactful footprint and one I’ll always appreciate and follow.

[@Cat-daddy1234]

Look at all the love in the comments, Mark. Great video as always. Carry on and much love ❤️

[@phredeejr]

Cinematically and aesthetically pleasing. Much love Mark, thank you for continuing to bring us along on your journey.

[@vladzverev9057]

Thirty minutes flew by like one. I hope I can visit California one day too. Thank you, Mark!

[@StanChris]

the vibes are just immaculate ✨✨✨✨✨

[@lonerEmpath]

Solo trips are needed man. And I can completely relate to the part where you said you find it sorta strange how much you enjoyed your own company and once a while a loneliness feeling comes to remind us we need someone in our lives 😊.

[@davidsheppard1362]

Best video you've made for a long time. It's good to see you're happy in your own company. Yourself can often be the best friend you'll ever have.

[@kevingilburn4811]

Evolve: To develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form.............I've watched this guy pretty much from day one........The student has definitly become the teacher.....well done Mark....It really is the journey my friend !!

[@timfitzgerald6575]

Mark, this video is beautiful. Truly one of my favourites. As someone also dealing with anxiety and depression, I find your shared experiences and takes on life uplifting. For me, they serve as a reminder to not be so in the mind, but rather in the body and the present moment. From one creative to another, thank you for sharing.

[@maxbga96]

It's actually insane to think about the fact that i have been following you for like 10 years now... Seeing how much I have grown (and you too obviously). Life's crazy!

[@bobart45]

Your encounters are purposeful and I’m glad to see that your taking the time to reflect on their meaning for your life. Excellent video, Mark! 👍🏻👏🏼❣️

[@bcmidcnty7457]

Like many comments, I too have followed and watched your videos for years. You are a great person Mark. This is one of the most beautifully done videos you’ve created. I think most would agree with me that longer videos from you are welcomed. Thank you for sharing this journey (trip) with us.

[@AhmedTallalA]

I started watching your videos when I was in middle school (around 12 years old). And you're one of the very few youtubers/content creators that I still watch 11 years later. Your cinematography is breathtaking. Just seeing your face and seeing you appreciate what there is to life and what there isn't makes my day! Keep up these amazing videos Mark! All the love from Tunisia 🇹🇳

[@coenraadpretorius]

Loved this video! Exceptionally well put together and thanks for allowing us to share your story. Much love Mark 🙂

[@lucasbrunoz]

This is not only a great piece of work, but a beautiful memory you can look back 30 years from now. Nice to think about

[@mossylog]

I once heard somebody say that if we were to receive some kind of message from the universe, how else should it come to us but on the wing? I'm glad you are noticing and keeping your heart open to what the birds have to share. Best regards Mark!

[@OuchMyNardz]

This video was on an entirely different level, Mark. Very well done. It really took us on an immensely personal journey that also felt so familiar and relatable.

[@AdamJMusic23]

You captured & shared so much without saying or doing too much. Reading thru the Coments as I often do, it seems we have all enjoyed the solitude & peace of this trip alongside with you. Thankyou for sharing it all. ❤

[@brycenall8694]

I’ve been watching you for years and years and I very very rarely comment…. But Mark this video was absolutely beautiful and I appreciate it so much! Big hugs and make everyday a great day! ❤

[@carfanfan]

Every day is a great day 😊. Watching this, I realized how we as humans are all lonely even when we have people around us. If you're comfortable being alone you have achieved true peace in your soul. When I was your age, I did a similar thing. Went on a road trip and became at peace with being alone, not lonely, just being comfortable with my own company. ❤

[@robertmartinezspot2]

Yo one of my favorite videos ever from you. It just brought out a range of emotions. So peaceful and calming.

[@TheGiulianomarcelino]

I feel like giving you a big hug after watching this video. This was a magical experience, thank you for sharing your truth, your journey and your heart with us. I'm very happy to have subscribed to your channel all those years ago, your content brings me to a place of peace and I wish you the very best this universe has to offer. Have a great day and an amazing life, and for as long as you decide to share, I'll be watching!

[@louiealcomendras469]

This is giving me Mark E Miller from 6 years ago. I miss your old filmmaking.

[@neliniasty]

Thanks for sharing this beautiful journey with us. Much love Mark ❤

[@DesiderioPace]

Your videos are always a breath of fresh air!! And even more excited that it was a long one this time ♥️ hope you're doing great, Mark

[@kbVACArestatecarsnrvs]

California is special to me as well. I first moved there in fall, 1980. I left to come back east (VA) a few times, for a family visit a time or two, or for a year or less, but last left it for good in fall, 1999. I long for it many times, but most of the special people in my California life, have vacated the earth. But I still long to be there because that's where I was most happiest and my best life for almost 20 years. I understand the connection. Even with some bitter memories, it has a hold on me too. Maybe one day I'll be back there, but it's never going to be the same. But it's not suppose to be, just let it happen if it's meant to be.

[@PPPinkepank]

wow, just wow! somehow i felt everything, each emotion and memory, even if i wasnt there when they were created! beautiful

[@brianbunten3185]

Thank you, a beautiful film. Wow.

[@Ayan44]

It’s like right out of an indie movie! Love these heartfelt and real expressions from my man Mark!

[@michaelwalker2426]

35 min Mark video , you know you’re in for something special !, great video , mood , vibe, etc, etc, love it !!!

[@davemuster7162]

The last few minutes of your composition brought me some inner peace, thank you Mark.

[@DanielMcGreevy]

This was my favourite video of yours in a while. I know you're always so open with us, but something about this video just hit different. Maybe because I felt like I resonated it with it a lot, especially when you were reflecting on the beach. Beautiful video as always, man. Wishing you a blessed day, from Ireland

[@alberciik]

And I really like the very end of the video when you say : GLAD TO BE HOME. it’s probably because you felt accepted there or protected there. Priceless. Some people can be treasures that can’t be replicated anywhere else and for you it seems like they’re in Indy.

[@clarkm5004]

Absolutely beautiful video mark. ❤

[@codymcgowan4601]

Something to watch during cardio. Thanks!

[@tylerm4269]

This was beautiful beyond words, Mark. Your journey has really been a blessing in my life, to be able to witness you grow and find the beauty that surrounds you. I feel less lonely when I watch your videos. I feel like there's hope, joy, and love to be had and all I need to do is continue on. Thanks for that lesson. Much love, Tyler

[@bei1016]

Mark, Always a Pleasure to see you. When I saw the 1st Video , I thought You would make a Great Friend. . It’s Super to see you Celebrate California. I’m Still here Dude .

[@Denf0]

Very Call Me By Your Name vibes at the end there with the fireplace & lighting

[@nickrv-]

This video is beautiful. Loved every moment. Maybe my favorite. 💛💛💛

[@teetertotter5787]

Olive's Cheerios! Bill is a such a wizard with what he is doing on that land. Stunning.

[@remsan03]

You're a beautiful person, Mark. Truly. Both in superficially sense, and profoundly.

[@guillaumel2049]

Thank you for sharing your trip with us!

[@aaron199654]

Thankfully I saw this on Patreon already but I’m ready to watch it again ❤❤❤❤

[@12kurtdaniel]

This video is impeccable!!!!

[@chateau7]

Such a great guy - wow, Bill! (Great editing, Mark! I appreciate all of the little touches and minute details that float in and out of your video.)

[@nikkilogan7726]

Hey Mark, I just wanna say that YOUR COOL! The way you tell your journey is so AWESOME! The story, editing, cinematography, vlogging etc... was NEXT LEVEL! So cool to watch! 😎🏳️‍🌈 This California trip of yours was healthy for you. New environment, nature, mountains, beach was all beneficial to you. Thanks Mark for this video! Love watching this episode of yours. Keep on making videos like this. You inspire so many people around the world. Thanks again Mark! Many people love you 😎💖🏳️‍🌈

[@kfren]

Being present; a gift ❤

[@Markus_Blewish]

Stunning images Mark! Yes, leaving loved ones behind is tough. My kitty lived to 19 and i would literally cut vacations short by half cuz at a point i couldn't enjoy being away knowing it was hurting her.

[@bobtuckey2409]

Hey Mark, it was great to see Bill and his fabulous home again. Regarding road trips, wait until you are 67!

[@shawnkelley3695]

Noooo!, 30 yrs -- 50yrs, no healthcare problems...👍❤️....

[@gblakev]

Shawn, I don't think Bob was saying that Mark should stop traveling until he got older. He was saying, and I was thinking, road trips get noticeably harder when you get to your late 60's and beyond.

[@icantalk710]

Fantastic editing and vibes in this throughout; was really nice coming along with you on this ride and getting a sense of where your mindset is. Also enjoyed that conversation with the Topanga mountain General Store's cashier, and I really liked those close-up shots of you and that look at your eyes as you were taking in a lot of the self-reflection time. Great video. 🙂

[@damonmorris5874]

This was just absolutely beautiful Mark o n all levels!! Thanks for sharing your gift with us all.

[@Vodogrei]

Это очень здорово что ты можешь быть счастлив наедине с собой! Получать спокойствие, смотреть на такую красоту и понимать что ни от кого не зависишь) Не все так смогут... Снимки просто шедевр, а ролики завораживают! Снимай чаще, смотреть данное видео было очень интересно и захватывающе! А смотря что снимает

[@3blw]

I’m pretty high right now and the commentary was so peaceful when you told the story about birds.

[@x1achilles99]

Fantastic to see you back in California. We miss you here.

[@andyweaver277]

So beautifully edited. I felt all the feels watching it. So impressive. Giving you hugs!

[@michaelmetcalf2715]

Absolutely loved this vlog Mark. Felt like I watched a great mini movie. I live in Central Valley California. I love being 2 hours from the beaches and 1 hour from the mountains. Thanks for sharing your vacation with us. 💪👑

[@matty1118]

Really great video here. It’s nice to see and hear your reflections on life and where it has taken you to this point.

[@davidmar442]

Another beautiful to look at, heartfelt film that I will no doubt rewatch over and over and dream about … TYSM !!! 🫶❤️😃

[@andrewmackaybryan]

Hello Mark. Thank you for an absolutely gorgeous video. Some things really stood out for me: the beautiful picture of the lady with the dog who shared your sunset photography experience. I have always loved the close up shots you do of flowers and plants and the way you weaved these into the video this time was impressive. I don't remember seeing exactly where you lived in LA though that is unsurprising. It was cool to pass through your old neighbourhood with you. Lastly I was deeply touched when you shared your reticence about embarking on the drive home. I saw it on your face and heard it in your voice. What impressed me though, is your insight into how to deal with this trepidation. Again, thank you for sharing your journey with the KZbin community.

[@zkcessnaguy]

That was just what I needed on a rainy, almost winter day down here in NZ. Just lovely :)

[@damiann_n7159]

This video is like from another world! Thank you! Really touching in a multiple ways....

[@jeanluz4708]

Feel like I've been taken through a journey, and I loved it! Really enjoyed the thoughts shared and the music

[@bradcolby3624]

You are so very gifted. This made me yearn for California. Nothing else like it. Peace to you Mark continuing this journey of life

[@That1PnkGuy]

I really liked this video. I’ve been watching you since I was 11, and I have always enjoyed your videos. This one was very touching to me, to see all that you have been through. I felt even more emotional once you played Hideaway by Karen O toward the end. Stay strong Mark! ❤️

[@jeffcooper1349]

Thanks for sharing your peace and joy. Solo traveling is my bag baby! Love what you do

[@annaseufert6397]

so beautiful, calming, wholesome - I really enjoyed this video - thanks!

[@eddieflxible379]

Solo road-trips are fun. Every week my job takes me east from Cali to wherever and then fly back home or sometimes just take the train. Having lived in SoCal for 36 years, I miss the OC

[@belizeguy]

Wonderful, reflective video Mark. Be Well and thanks for this!

[@mattanderson997]

Hard to rank your videos, there’s a lot of good ones. But this one is up there, maybe the best. Thank you for your honesty and for thoughtfulness and for sharing your eye and talent for stitching it all together. I ❤ LA.

[@maciej6469]

Thank you for this video. It's like a blanket. I needed it today.

[@optimumreality9745]

This is absolutely stunning to watch. Thank you.

[@nicKos_alex]

That was so great to watch like a deep movie full of different emotions. So real and so sad. I again recognize my own life in you, those stares into nothingness and sighs are deep and loud. We all hear you Mark! I smiled and had tears becouse of views becouse of You. Great silence made me think real deep inside and becouse of You and Your work I feel less alone and happier at the moment. Thanl You, Mark, for You and your art!

[@Alimac1112]

Did not expect to hear Polo & Pan in this video❤️🔥🎶

[@kripa2020]

33:26 reminds me of Call Me By Your Name, the ending scene!🥺 Love you Mark.

[@blackwellme1]

What a beautiful video. Your calmness washes over me…thank you for sharing your energy

[@TheRainydayvideo]

Loved the evening time reflection point. I feel very connected to those words of putting boundaries in place and feeling proud of yourself. We are a similar age and I feel your words so so deeply as someone who likes to be alone but then looks for moments to connect. Love your work. Thank you for this beautiful piece.

[@dirksinger1763]

4 weeks ago I was alone for 5 days on vacation in Mallorca for the first time and it was enlightening that I am enough for myself and can switch off incredibly well. Also to be able to recap the last 5 years in which a lot of crazy, great and but frightening (COVID-19) happened. And your video reflects the same feeling I had on my journey. I love your content

[@QuincyDisneyVegan]

I use to shop at Topanga General store 20 years ago back when it was a much smaller hippie operated mom and pop establishment. It's so good to see how much it's grown since I last visited it.

[@jamesnichols9915]

As always, really love your cinematography and overall 'natural' and free-flowing creativity presented in your videos. As some of the others say, they do have this kind of 'documentary' feel to them - it's not in a disconnected sense, though - your content feels very 'grounded and real'. With regard to your note on the birds - this is definitely relatable as well. I thoroughly enjoy encountering these moments myself as someone that spends a lot of time in my head, alone, and often in a journey from one mental spiral to the next. They're like these little confirmations/affirmations and 'I see you' or gifts from the universe. These unique moments that stand out and just help you feel appreciative, aware, tranquil... etc. I don't know how to put enough words together to accurately portray the surreal experience those specific moments have. Whether its just watching a kid and their parent as you sit on a park bench have a genuine interaction, an animal having a moment that it feels like only you're aware of, or even the thoughts that come after that random conversation with a stranger. It's like "I could be anywhere, but I'm here - experiencing this and if I were anywhere else in my life... I'd have missed it." Not sure if I've touched on the right sensation and feeling a bit rambly, now... but you're not alone and it's nice to know some of us out there aren't either. Keep on, keepin' on.

[@ShireenPlays]

Mark, I've been subscribed and watching your videos on/off for quite a while now. As a Brit, I've never wanted to visit America, but this Vlog in particular is the first time I've truly seen the beauty of California. One of my favourite places in England are the mountains of the Lake District and California looks like the desert version of it. I think I might visit California one day...😮

[@TurnoftheDrew]

I think the birds are trying to tell you to find a new way to fly! As always, such a work of art.

[@MichaelPotter-rw6do]

I literally JUST got back from seeing LA for the first time and stayed in Topanga. The scenery there is unmatched. We also saw a bobcat and went to the same general store, lol.

[@comtedetancarville]

Hopefully thus break did you good..What a great promo for California.. I want to see this when I eventually come to the States..

[@riccardomaffei6264]

It’s such a beautiful video, Mark! It’s basically visual poetry and that’s what your soul can do best. I think this work captures your essence: simplicity, freedom, love, introspection, openness, the ability to see the beauty of things, positivity. You’re incredible, thank you for letting us be a part of your life! Luv u and grateful for you and your art 💙

[@brunerguy1]

I was wondering about Miss Olive. I'm glad to see the reunion at the end.

[@manholejump]

So rewarding and a great way to refresh ones state of mind. I especially enjoy driving my own car on trips outside the state and across California making the journey cozy and easier to see the sites. I love your friends place in Topanga, it has such a creative vibe and embraces the outdoors.