My Independence is a Problem // Living in my Car (story 12)

I am officially living on the road in my car, more specifically my unconverted bus. I am pointed in the direction of Colorado, where I will build out my skoolie with the help of a friend. Immediately I run into a mechanical problem. The highs and lows of this wild life offer me perspective into an are of myself in which I need to heal and grow: my independence. Rather, my hyper-independence. As much as I don't want to admit it, my hyper independence is a defense mechanism, a trauma response. So as I drive further into the unknown ahead, I take the time to reflect on this and make an unexpected pit stop to visit the person I trust the most.
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Talk soon,
Lyss
#solofemalevanlife #skoolie #selfgrowth

[@brendaswann7292]

Your sweet spirit brought a tear to my 67 year old eyes. God damn girl …. Live your life as you see fit, I am in awe. You sound grounded, and self aware. I’ll be watching your growth, and living vicariously. Safe journeys to you both.. 👏🏽🙏🏼🇨🇦

[@Mary-tj5qx]

The problem with being self-reliant, in the extreme, is that when you need nothing from anyone else, you’ll attract people who have nothing to give. This is a great realization for you to come to at this age.

[@angelaferreira5177]

I learned from you today that yes self reliance is a protection and some times keeps me away from others. Thanks for your honesty and bravery😍

[@matthewdever2118]

I think it's a balancing act; self-reliance also means you don't have to put up with people who don't honor you as you honor them. Anecdotally, the most self-reliant people I know attract the healthiest friends/partners. Irony: when you're strong enough to leave, you attract people with whom you want to stay.

[@charleswhite1014]

Little lady please get a 177 air gun. They are sold at Walmart mart, air guns aren't considered a weapon so you don't need a permit to own them. The pellets are really cheap. They aren't a joke. Never pump it more than 12 times or you could burst the air bladder, they shoot much faster than a rimfire .22 gun but don't have as much nock down. I have bought a couple and they are just under 60 bucks 250 pellets are under $3 dollers. They are great for self defense and getting small game. They will easily drop a deer if you aim for the side of the head, Or anything.

[@tahliad3439]

The fact that you've come to this huge realisation after being on the road on your own for such a short amount of time is the exact reason I want to do solo van life.

[@ericwarner4402]

Completely understand being overly independent. I've struggled with that for years myself. Self awareness and trusting the unknown is the only way to overcome this I believe. But, on a more exciting note. Upstate NY!?! I have family there too! You made me miss it. I've been in Bali Indonesia for nearly 6 years, so seeing a small piece of home made me ever so slightly homesick. Love your videos and the music choices. 🎶 👌 I've been bouncing around your channel and I hope you love your new home in Colorado. 🙂

[@jimross7648]

I find that your way of looking at things is unique. You experience life fully. Your videos are uniformly well put together and I've enjoyed your journey up to now. I look forward to where you and Reo take us on your future adventures.

[@REGRETLYSS]

Jim, thank you so much for your kind words and for the super. I'm grateful to have you as part of this journey.

[@backtobaesicz3068]

@@REGRETLYSS I have been watching your channel ever since my now Wife & I came across it. We got married August 14th 2021 and then went on the road for our Honeymoon ending in Illinois from Norwich CT. We made a few stops in NY, NJ, PA, Ohio, Indiana and of course Illinois in 7 Days. It was a definite BEAUTIFUL and AMAZING travel experience. When we found out "the Lucky Bus" was for sale, we jumped to conclusions that this LIFE is what we want! We have a YT Channel called "the Baez Chronicle" if interested. I will indeed be making more videos and staying informative to our audience. There is so MUCH IN THIS WORLD that a 9 to 5 job cannot do. Again, REGRETLYSS we wish to meet you one day. We were so close but we take this as a hint to continue what we love most. 🌎♥️

[@lomeygoat]

Great video, you are great. I've watched many of your videos, very interesting. I have done similar but on the sea in my own boat. A large boat I'm still refurbishing and fixing things on. But after 3 years and traveling the oceans I think it's my time to take it easy now.

[@eloisety1392]

There's something so calming and reassuring in watching your videos... I've watched you before with you know who.. but, I never subscribed. Now, I'm in love with your content.. your independence and your transparency. Thank you for sharing it with us and empowering women. God bless you🙏❤️

[@aaliyahentertainment8395]

Hello my name is Aaliyah and I have had a rough life. I work everyday and pay bills and tired of the same shit everyday. I been depressed for many years and just recently went through a terrible break up, over time I started watching your videos and love how you create your videos and it helps me a lot when I’m down. My plan is to copy you and start my healing process and finally get to travel and experience new things.

[@gplourdes]

Enjoyed the "bloopers". I smiled through the whole thing. You're such a pleasant gal. P.S. Ever thought of becoming an author? A book about your adventures and the life/travel lessons along the way. Your way with words/story-telling will surely keep the reader engaged. P.S.S. Hugs for Rio.

[@lindapurvis5402]

Thanks for sharing! I will begin my van life 1 September and will now be more comfortable not having it completed. Stay safe

[@pamm5287]

I can completely relate to what you said about being independent & cutting yourself off from others for protection. Stay safe and have a blessed & wonderful weekend.❤🙏🏼

[@gregorybiggs2068]

Sometimes it is not healing (suggests you are damaged). Sometimes it is just growth. Life is a journey and continuous growth. Keep it up! Great job on the RV!

[@francoisgauvin9240]

Hi Lyss, I saw that you're watching the tv reality ''Alone''...it's the only tv reality i've been watching too since the first season and i really enjoying it. It's such a great tv show. You and Chad from living the van life inspired me to get into this kind of living when i will stop working in 7 years from now. Love your Channel and keep on riding in beautiful places in North America.

[@rickcleveland5326]

Im a little late to the game here. I ran across you a week or two ago. Your way of looking at life has really given me insight that ive needed to look at life differently. Ive been given a chance to start over, due to a worl related injury. I have had no idea what to do or where to go...any why do anything at all...and its made me miserable. Time to change that! Thank you!! PS, we were neighbors or close (25 miles as the crow flies) when you were parked on the pier. Best of luck!

[@vincedagiel3905]

Your self awareness is part of what makes you such a beautiful soul.

[@neomatrix6160]

This one really spoke to my soul. Thank you. You’re really evoking something wonderful with these “diaries.”

[@alanwondergem2105]

I just found your website again. I don't think I subscribed last time. I did now. You seem to have your stuff together. An you seem to have a good sense of humor. Plus I can understand what you are saying. I'm 75 ( soon to be 76). I'm a single old guy that likes to watch you tube.

[@ronaldseitz3677]

Awesome bus home on wheels your dog is one very cool .love your attitude & video 👍

[@CrixJoki]

Loved your Welcome to my crib part ;) You certainly made me smile, and I needed that today! 💜 I hope this won´t sound mean or condescending, cos it´s meant as an compliment (I find it hard sometimes to find the right words to express what I´m thinking, downside of being Autistic) it seems like an old, wise soul is emerging from within you, figuring out what´s been missing in your life and acknowledge where it comes from and why, like REALLY seeing it, and you are taking control and making brave changes for the better 💜 change is hard, especially when you have to dig deep within and acknowledge behaviors that´s hindering you from being the best, happiest version of yourself, but it´s also necessary to be able to grow into the person you want to be, to live the life you want to live and reach the goals of your dreams. It makes me so happy to see when someone is living their life fully in their own way, being brave enough to choose their own path, just like you are doing :) wise beyond your years. I am so grateful that you´re letting us following along on your beautiful journey 💜 and as always, I wish you all the best in life, relationships, experiences, most of all, joy and true happiness :) whatever that may be for you! I am sorry to bring this up, and I might be overstepping, but I just have to say, from the small amount of time since you and Dan decided to take different paths, you have grown tremendously :) 💜 (sorry bout the long comment, just my way of letting you know that I see you, and even though I don´t really know you, I care) Stay safe, see yah on insta ;)

[@briandavis9975]

You go girl safe travels and continue to stop and enjoy the moments.

[@Captain_Kendo]

First video I’m seeing of yours thanks to @Chuck Cassidy and I love it! You’re hilarious! That crib tour lmao ❤️.. On a real note tho personal I like this conversion better than Charlie’s conversion on your bus! Haha shots fired at Charlie 😂 Damn I wish I knew how to tag someone on KZbin hopefully he sees this or you tag him haha.. but all seriousness everyone needs to see that conversion he did on your rig 😍😍

[@mariossaraiva]

I really enjoy that you do van life videos without waiting for the van to be completely outfitted and 'ready'. There is a simplicity, plainness, home made video feel that is really refreshing and authentic.

[@REGRETLYSS]

I really appreciate this Mario. I treat my videos almost like diary entries, I'm glad the 'home made video' feel comes across and is enjoyable. Hope you stick around to see the completed build.

[@got2flynow]

I thought I'd seen all of these, but this one was unique. It was good to see your BEST friend!!!! Those are special times.

[@johnwilliams-ni8cn]

you can fix most metal and hard plastic pipe leaks with rubber and those round clamps with a screw on it too tighten around it, i did it with high pressure water pipes. thank u for the videos

[@wandarios1711]

I’m so enjoying your journey! Can’t wait to see more! BLESSINGS! Wanda Rios

[@Tryingtohelpnow]

I just found your channel. I don’t know your story, but I relate to the few videos I have watched. Thank you for the openness and vulnerability

[@larryguy7160]

I guess we all have to some day ' find the way ' not as much on the road but, what's in all of us and our own journey thru life....what make us different and separates us from all the rest.....Safe travels and good luck on the rebuild...

[@DeborahLong7777]

Too funny blooper ending, surely you will have an awesome new home and I totally GET IT 😂😂😂🙏

[@gayemarianesfox2405]

I know it is a work in progress but I’d feel so exposed with bare windows! Can’t wait to see what you do with the bus.

[@leslieservantofgod8601]

I gave this link to my sister and I said she should watch this it's really good there's more than what you think I love your philosophy peace be with you and may the abundance be poured out on you press down filled up to overflowing

[@athollmcnicoll256]

Oh to be young and free and have such a loving dog as my sole companion, even though I have a brother whom I love dearly as you have seen when watching my latest video. And when I reach my final destination and the build begins in earnest, oh what a difference bigger space can make - more palatial than merely a van/home build. Thanks for sharing your adventures so far. Tata the Noo from Scotland.

[@maxxblackstar3068]

Treasure and be treasured, both in equal measure.. our emotions are like pools of life giving waters, we get the best life when we drink from each others pools, not just one pool.. one love girl..its out there x

[@flexjay87]

You remind me of my daughter, you are about the same age, tough, independent, and determined. I paused the video @ 4:49 and that look on your face, with the sun shining on you and your eyes looking off to the side into the camera, is a look i have seen before , on my daughter ! Best of luck, and safe travels to you :)

[@maxplanck9055]

Minimalizing dependency on others is good, total isolation removes you from fun opportunities with people, balance is needed. Protect yourself from a world that may fail you with government and centralised institutions, other people can still be useful, better judgement and experience is needed here 💗👍🇬🇧 much love ❤️

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

As a late but wonderful personality Michael Brooks said, Be ruthless to institutions but kind to people.

[@BeeKay4444]

Hey Lady! New subbie here as I just found your channel. Starting from the first video! Saying hey. Happy to be here and look forward to seeing you grow throughout these chapters ahead. I will be loudly cheering you and Rio on! Rio is such a sweet girl.

[@lyfandeth]

Having the heater valves was good. Having Charlie to send you looking for them, even better.

[@cplcabs]

it also showed that there was no self reliance going on, despite self reliance being mentioned multiple times.

[@precisiont5188]

I relate to your trauma response yet the realization that what you truly want is connection with others. I am very introverted which helps me in some ways but it's not healthy.

[@lialos]

I find your outlook on life refreshing, and surprisingly wisened in one your age. Some use the phrase, "an old soul," but I think that isn't quite right either. You combine a youthful optimism with a mature poetic way of expressing yourself that reminds me of a modern day Charles Kuralt. It is natural that we all change, but in doing so don't let your core change, pivot around that core to the new you. Oh, and that waterfall was very cool!

[@Sixbears]

For seven years my wife, dog and I traveled in converted ambulance based on the same Ford your bus is built on. Good times. We often said "Thank god for strangers." Lots of good people out there.

[@jonlaster6805]

You're tough, pretty, smart and determined to succeed. I think you will and I am excited to watch, can't wait for 13!

[@markmarshall8314]

Beautiful soul, you will find someone who compliments what you have already accomplished yourself 💕

[@RicardoRoams]

Always look forward to your videos. Enjoy watching you progress not only with your bus build, but with your life! Continued safe travels.

[@OhioHODL]

i love and appreciate your self reflection. i believe far too many people now-a-days either actively avoid this or pick up bad habits to cover up having to deal with the real world. thank you for being you and good luck with the bus build!

[@markkijas5859]

I’m impressed by your journey of self reliance and I feel that your journey will lead to many meaningful relationships. Rest assured you’ll will meet someone very special as you go down that road as many of us have. I can appreciate your freedom on the road and am envious! As I have two forms of cancer and with the pandemic I can not take a journey such as yours. Know I enjoy your read on life and wish you the best on life’s journey. Stay safe and know you are appreciated by many! Much love to you kid!

[@Donya_and_Priya]

New subscriber here...your videos and insights are soul touching. Thank you girl...and furbaby for your vulnerability and sharing of your life. The past few months I've been selling things, building out my 4runner, and preparing to head out on the road indefinitely. Just gave my 30 day notice today. You remember how that feels right?!?! New adventure is coming..with all its fear, anxiety, and adrenaline. I'm ready...and not ready..both are perfect. My departure point is Colorado Springs, next stop...TBD. Hope we cross paths someday..me and my chocolate girl Priya (lab) would love it. Looking forward to the next one!

[@Wide_Eyed_Wanderer]

I would absolutely love to have a Skoolie at this point. Freedom, happiness. My rent just went up another 110. Mth plus fees for my animals. More fees for every little thing. I don’t see me staying in current place much longer. Hoping & praying for good changes before holidays this year.

[@Slytheslayer]

New subscriber. Love your vibe and can’t wait to see what you have in store for that old bus.

[@jblanche747474]

really enjoyed it....thanks for that...did learned much which is great...best!!..your transportation turned in something really nice...take care

[@Iamtherodlight1453.]

Wow Uur amazing. Could not stop watching. Good luck in everything you set your heart to.

[@OmniAtlantic]

Emotional isolation can only take you so far. Finding someone to share that isolation is what it's about.

[@Smittypie86]

Good ole Lake Erie seems a little eerie at night. I'm about an hour from Columbus. Amazing video as always. PS- I'm close with my little sister too.

[@bonitastjulienlepauvre6489]

Love your facetious tour at the end of the video. Thanks for the entertainment! Bon Voyage!

[@qheffner7083]

That was awesome I think my encouragement on IG to keep ur chin up is about a month or so late 🙈😂 but I’m quietly thankful that this is not taking place after the roof raise and your trip afterwards lol. I love hearing u express your joys of the simple life it’s cool too hear my own inner thoughts of nomad skoolie life being put into such eloquent words from another persons mouth. I think it takes a unique person to appreciate what our community loves so much and it’s reaffirming and exciting to know that even in our own self isolation and self reliance there’s still community, which I was so excited to hear that u hand internally landed on. It’s def ok to be self reliant but we were designed to be in community and it’s necc. For our inner health to have that community to belong too. Cheers Lady keep em coming! (And thanks for the inspiration seeing this makes me want to start documenting my journey more as well😊🙏)

[@JosephPuplava]

Wish you the best luck in your bus build-off. Show us what you got in the end of finishing touch-up. Put on the hot rod tires in the back to smoke up the payment. Can't wait to see the inside.

[@KoRndog78]

Dude!! The Bus Tour was the best, I couldn't stop laughing. "Not sponsored" lol

[@adventureawaits5003]

It's going to be awesome to look back at this when you've finished building it out. Nice upload definitely appreciate the honesty in your video. 👍

[@REGRETLYSS]

Really appreciate all your comments. Glad you're here :)

[@adventureawaits5003]

@@REGRETLYSS Glad I found your channel it's awesome seeing someone follow there dreams the way your doing and sharing so honest through it all. Your videos have made me contemplate and rethink different subjects that you share during your growth and journey. Thanks for the response. Safe travels hope all is well with bus 2.0 🤙

[@annapacatang5079]

I love your sweet attitude and I see you maturing in wisdom and knowledge. I just hope Rio is eating healthier than you are!😂 What an amazing experience you are sharing with us. Keep on keeping on, dear Lyss 👍💗🙏🏻🌺🤗

[@sannelambert579]

Another gorgeous video 😍

[@susandunaway8290]

Gurrlll, your MTV Cribs blooper was great! Safe journey and good fortune on your build out. MTV may be calling in the future because your bus might just be that fantastic!

[@drew7099]

I was following the deep and thoughtful narrative and then it happened … Gummies candy. Got to love it!

[@marknewman3360]

Recently discovered your channel. Enjoy your spirit and outlook. Love the dog.

[@descrazielyfe4446]

Love the bloopers💕😉 Have a great day

[@leslieservantofgod8601]

I do love the loves overnight parking video the best you are so good you make what we live with seem glamorous and it kind of is in our own way

[@EliteAztec]

Hey. I might have missed quite a few of your videos! You’re in a different bus! I’ll go back to watch them. Stay safe!

[@tommiller8726]

I love the way you tell your story you definitely live a beautiful life i could only imagine to live like you and

[@user-cw7fq1pf9h]

Nice video, and you are a beautiful person . I’m thinking you will have plenty of offers on relationships but knowing the right one for you will probably be difficult. Like you can’t see the forest for the all the trees or however that saying goes. Take care luv, safe travels to you.

[@moose354]

Where did you dump that coolant? Coolant is highly toxic and should only be disposed of at either the hazmat section of a dump or at an auto supply store that accepts coolant for recycling.

[@REGRETLYSS]

Really appreciate you inquiring! I spoke with the attendant at the truck entrance. They had a toxic waste dump where the coolant was properly disposed of. I couldn't do mama Earth dirty like that! Thank you for informing others in the comments.

[@moose354]

@@REGRETLYSS Great, I forward to following your new build.

[@imperfectadventure]

@@REGRETLYSS I was also wondering. Good to know that possibility is out there for me too when I finally hit the road. Kudos to Loves for having that.

[@itsanorristhing3825]

Stay safe princess, Rio your such a blessed spirit sent to watch over my girl! HopenI get to see the end id the bus build but iv not I know it will ne grand and special and your twin flame is oyg there! Love you guys

[@ShadeTreeKennyT]

It's a rare and special woman that can live so simply. I never woulda thought it could be true. I guess there really are like minded women out there who want to live the same way as me.

[@drivventodrumm1]

Watching in my van conversion, while listening to the waves in San Onofre beach So Cal. Best wishes on your journey

[@jackies1597]

I can’t wait to watch you build your new skoolie. I wish you had some covers on your windows at night (I am 65 and worried for you😂😂).

[@debbieselfridge9103]

I want to thank you for sharing your journey with us I'm truly enjoying watching you 2 together iam very happy I found your channle thank 😊 you Debbie from the mountains ⛰ of New Hampshire

[@rayleo529]

Can't wait to see the build out. Great content. Thought provoking

[@bagoluis]

Haha.. Loves the MTV Cribs walk through. Also love the duct tape X over the school bus sign, lol. Keep reflecting and growing. That’s what makes us better people. Always looking for ways to improve ourselves and offer the best version of ourselves to the world and others.

[@douglasbrislinger664]

Birds of a feather flock together. That is a keeper from me to you. ⚓ Anchors away.

[@adamoneill2660]

I came across your channel randomly this is such a beautifully done video, I'm looking forward to seeing your build and journey 😊✌🏻

[@royranna6081]

I am so proud of you girl good job

[@jamesmann4501]

Loved this one and your openness about self reliance as a protection mechanism. I'm reading a book you might enjoy called Love Sense. It's all about the importance of connection.

[@shirleychester9922]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful journey. I’m also super excited of getting my cargo van soon God’s willing so I can build it. When that happens would really love to meet up with you and your happy doggie😁 Stay strong and cannot wait to see the progress of the built! Thanks for inspiring me!!🙌

[@stanharrison7039]

Im new to your journey, and although Im guessing from your past videos you are in a transition. Your an inspiration except for the I feel sad that I could never drop my present way of life and enjoy living on the road. perhaps if I live long enuff I can retire and give it a try. hang in there and good luck

[@davidianhowe]

Came here to check out your skoolie for tips on my build, but I’ve really come to enjoy your videos! We’re kind of similar people, but I guess that’s why I’m also trying to get a bus lol

[@susanscharff2686]

So glad to see you again! I’ve been a little worried about you kiddo.

[@KoRndog78]

You are Awesome,keep making more videos, you are very inspirational. Thanks

[@franziskaprz8581]

Love your journey! Thanks for sharing. Verry inspiring! And funny - nice bustour 😂

[@jeniewelch8909]

Totally jealous!!!! Your so inspirational!!! Stay safe!!

[@ena-qt9em]

lol, was going to ask about temporary sheets on the windows, but I guess they are pretty high up. Safe travels! Can't wait for the next steps!

[@katyp5914]

Wow! Inspiring, compassionate, courageous and honest. ❤🙋🏽‍♀️ New subbie here. Safe travels! Live long and prosper.🕊🔆

[@PCBackUp-iu9zy]

You are amazing and you are very strong woman I am proud of you give Rio steak you make smile thank you I have schizophrenia it very hard I am proud of your are very beautiful thank you I wish you happiness I love Rio he is very beautiful dog I wish I could travel with you everyone loves you I love you peace it's just a dream I am a loser I wish you prosperity and tranquility I love Rio you are my hero thank you are are a inspiration to me you are very smart I love your personality keep up the awesome job. 🌹

[@ItsTylerWittig]

I really love that you went from the last fully done skoolie which was by all accounts gorgeous to something more simple. I can't wait to see what you do with this one!

[@tofferarvid6589]

Your words are wonderful! I feel a very similar way about my own journey through life as I navigate this this world I have to create.... I'm on my own even though I'm not alone cuz God is forever with me🙏🕯️😇

[@Leons_camper]

Good on ya. Happy travels.

[@tommynikon2283]

At 65, I know this: "I'm too independent" for most people to handle; and it didn't take me 65 years to learn that. It seems that in most relationships you're no longer a "me", but an "us"....and losing a part of yourself in the union. And then the tricky part w/ time: "Growing", somehow together, at "the same pace"....with the same goals, outlook, expectations, etc. Of course if you fuck it up, say goodbye to 50%. Of everything. For Life overall, my mantra: "No Expectations= No Disappointments".

[@danielvanmourik]

beuatiful bus video from you. wish you so much luck and hope everting comes good whit you and your dog and the bus. keep going and stay safe whit your health

[@geraldrodriguez1731]

Can't wait to see the end result on lessismore 👀😁! From ur admirer in Texas

[@hairybusiness3759]

Colorado was one of my favorite places for van life. Careful of the elevation! one minute you’re 6,000ft up next you 12,000 and you wake up nauseous and dizzy ha

[@josephranker5716]

Breathe deep, no amount of thought or worry will stop bad things from happening, you can roll with it. But don't let blocking bad stuff take all the time/energy when you could be letting good in.

[@TheMrmark61]

You have the spirit if Lewis and Clark. You have the heart of a romantic. You have the look of a model. You the thoughts of a philosopher. You have the independence of a free spirit. Keep on keeping on and I’m rooting for you every step of the way. I envy you. Keep it up.

[@REGRETLYSS]

Wow, such kind words. Thank you. I'm keeping on. 🤍

[@TheMrmark61]

@@REGRETLYSS I hope you put a really big water tank and bathroom in the new bus. I worry about you at the truck stops. I don’t know you but I do care about you and your well being.

[@saskiaisskra3240]

Oh my gosh !!!!! I live in columbus ohio and sail on erie during the summer !!!!! It looks like you and your brother explored goodale park - short north

[@timothynaquin8899]

Love the beware of dog sign in the window

[@HopeLivesHere721]

Really enjoyed this video. Love how you put your feelings into words. It's beautiful, it's poetic and it's real. You have a wonderful gift. Looking forward to watching the progress of your bus build.