First Weeks of Full Time Van Life // Living in a Van

[@simmpleenough]

I hope you enjoyed this update. I’ll see you next week for a “Cooking in My Van” video. Thank you to all of the new subscribers, as well as those of you who have been supporting my channel for a while ❤.

[@tonyabrown4263]

Awww your parents are so precious ❤❤

[@MsABee1]

Your laughter is adorable! ☺️ it’s awesome that you had the opportunity to live in the van while it was under construction!! It’s pretty cool to see the start of this beautiful journey! Cheers to you!! Your parents are gems!

[@kimberlyc84]

It is so refreshing to see somebody who does not "romanticize" alternate living! Glad you're showing your journey instead of just the end result. And to know you've made this conscious decision compared to hanging on to 'stuff' so long then being forced out of some overpriced, under cared for vertical set of Lego-like dwellings is marvelous! . You are truly showing how to steward your resources. I'm 10 yrs out from collecting two pensions w the school system I'm in. My little piece of the pie is being encroached upon by investors and builders. A 3-acre lot 400 ft away was just rezoned from single fam to townhomes last year (I guess the 250 already within 1.5 miles arent enough🙄) My neighbors and my little stretch of 7 combined acres is literally being wasted away by the erosion & foundations are shifting. The deer & other wildlife huddle & graze on our lots because the foliage is being destroyed. I'm waiting for them to cut our $750k checks like they did for the house they're bulldozing for the land. Meanwhile, I just applied for licensure to start my side hustle (court reporting) in my state. I work remotely for a west coast state after getting home from school and the time zone is perfect for living in the east.😊 My third & last little Birdy will be flying the nest next month and I've already started to donate, sell & throw out what's what. Although I don't think I'll go full van life, I have been starting toward a smaller footprint, maybe a tiny home then a travel van for extended visits. I don't quite know yet, but you give me such inspiration and encouragement!! Keep it up!🎉 P.S. WHY @ 12:51 right after the warning about your cut, did there come a commercial and the first picture they show is boneless chicken wings drenched in sauce and I thought that was your finger!😮

[@simmpleenough]

I'm so happy for you ❤️!!

[@TK79123]

Your parents are awesome! 😊

[@simmpleenough]

They really are!!

[@monamorris8337]

Monique you’re the smartest! Why chase money??!!! Money doesn’t bring happiness. All money does is to make it possible to purchase the finer things in life! So I agree with you… live simply and be free! Nothing beats being out there with nature! That’s what will promote healing in our bodies. I’m so happy that I’ve found your channel… again! I had subscribed prior to today but somehow I missed your videos! Well no more! I’m looking forward to watching your videos. I’m 65 and I would like to try vanlife but I was hesitant as I don’t see a lot of “us” out there. I’m hoping to purchase a van and build it out with the help of my brother. I hope that I’ll get to meet you out there on the road. Stay safe and blessed. May the angels continue to surround you on your wonderful journey of life! You’re brave to be doing vanlife. I love the contents of your videos. You’re so calm and you’re an awesome speaker! Thanks for sharing your life with us. God bless and keep you. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@simmpleenough]

There are so many of you wonderful beings I would love to meet on the road. I hope you and your brother get to build your van soon. I’m slowly starting to see more of “us” in the van life community and it makes me so happy! I’m happy to contribute to the community. You stay safe and blessed, as well.

[@SarahQMalone]

Amen, Amen, dear sisters! (Kinfolk tho not "skinfolk"!) 😅❤

[@TheVideoGamHer]

OMG your parents are so precious for real!!!!!!!!!!!! 🥺🥺🥺

[@simmpleenough]

They really are!!

[@kimberlyc84]

I'm loving the ups and downs of your journey. Then I got to thinking, I'm loving the ups and downs of mine as well! I have been at my elementary school as one of the clerks for 19 years. But about 5 years ago, when people retired and moved on, I took a higher position in the front office. My principal offered to move ne to a very spacious office. However, I declined and I decided to take a very small office. At one time it was a previous AP's office, but I swear, before that, it had to have been a storage closet 🤣 During lockdown, teachers were allowed to stay home. But I still had to be in person to register families. Our school district stayed in lockdown for less than a month. So that's when I really started making this my home away from home. I got my Hotlogic about 5 years ago, oscillating heater, have my own copier, my personal water cooler, rearranged the office so that I can see anyone coming and going before they see me, have my camp chair, my mini vacuum cleaner, basically all the things I needed to be semi-self-sufficient without having to venture out into the land of sneeze and snot😮. This gave me a really good feel for how much space I can tolerate and enjoy.😊

[@SarahQMalone]

That's a wonderful management of your life in the pandemic!

[@stormdavies250]

Wow that was a rough start! Glad things are better now. I just love your parents. When they miss you they can watch your videos. I wish my granddaughters had videos. Best wishes.

[@simmpleenough]

It was rough, but things are going more smoothly now, thank goodness! I love that my parents have these videos, as well. Thank you.

[@Selahbrooke3]

Hi Monique... You have awesome parents. They have your back. I saw the love just by them watching you as you were leaving... I'm glad that you're better and ready to move on and create more content. Jesus loves you.

[@simmpleenough]

I’m so grateful for those two ❤️. Thank you.

[@ShaleekClee]

When starting van life, you have to live in it close to home so that you can work out some of the kinks. BE for you start traveling make everything is to your satisfaction. Have fun I’ll be out there soon..

[@simmpleenough]

I agree! Be nearing my family in the beginning has made things much easier.

[@MaribelGonzalezGarcia-jn7ct]

The best thing about things going so wrong is that.... it can only get better!!! Good luck girl, you are very inspiring! x

[@simmpleenough]

So true! And things have gotten much better 😊. Thank you!

[@MsABee1]

Ouch your finger!!! 😣 I recall you saying that you cut your finger!!! I am happy you figured out a better way to fill up the jug!!! Sorry that happened to you!!! Despite the tough start, I am glad that you stayed with it!!

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you!

[@monamorris8337]

Hi Monique, I hope that you’re feeling better. I love that you have an amazing relationship with you’re parents! You’re such a nice and humble person that I know you’re going to make it out there in nomad land! Blessings always! Oh! You’d make an excellent motivational speaker! How about doing voiceovers! I like to see how young people are just living life on their own terms! Kudos to you!

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you so much!! I’m actually going to research how to get voiceover jobs. Many people have told me I have a good speaking voice and that would be a great form of income on the road. Thanks for reminding me!

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

I went through a lot for my 1st journey trying the car life...ended up w/no car in the end...but in life, no matter whether we are pursuing a dream or just living there is always problems and it's how we handle it that defines us...but I'm sure you already know this. As soon as I get a van I"m going to do what you did and try it first on the weekends and small trips. Hope things get better but then again it's just life, but a few days or weeks w/out so many issues is always a nice relief.

[@bangalorebobbel]

That was an interesting summary, thanks for sharing! Just two tipps: if it is too hot you could try laying on one of these dog cooling mats (gel filled, non electric) to cool down. Best way to deal with intense cold is putting a sheep skin under your body (it doesn't only isolate but keeps your body's heat in between the fur). Wish you all the best!

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you for the suggestions! I’ve never heard about the sheep skin, but I recently saw someone using the pet cooling mats and thought it was such a smart idea. I’m planning to get one!

[@bangalorebobbel]

@@simmpleenough Well, there are endless applications for these sheep things. Sheep skins are used since thousands of years as sleeping mats - they are really good for that purpose, especially when it is cold. Many people keep these furs also on their vehicle seat because they deliver best possible climate, you won't get a sweaty back side. And not to forget, they are commonly used in hospitals and old age care, as well as at home, in order to prevent decubitus / bed sores in patients which have to stay 24/7 in bed. Means very traditional and simple method to stay comfortable in a van as well 🤣 If you are vegan and don't want to use cave men style animal based products, you can also get synthetic sheep skins, but I'm not sure whether they are as good as the real ones. Take care and have a good life!

[@gabe2045]

What a beautiful family! You handled all the obstacles like a champ!

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊

[@katecombest3602]

Life is a Journey!! You have a great attitude and parents whom support you . Look houses break down all the time better to learn that lesson while traveling and enjoying the experience. ❤

[@simmpleenough]

I agree with everything you said! And at the end of it all, it really wasn’t THAT bad. I’m so grateful for my life.

[@newjourney2331]

New subscriber here. Sorry to hear that you're having a rocky start to being a full-time van dweller. I currently reside out of my car and look forward to becoming a van dweller soon. Once you get over those hiccups I believe everything moving forward will be smooth, I'm glad to see that you're feeling better and look forward to seeing your next adventure.

[@simmpleenough]

Things have been going much more smoothly these days, thank goodness! Thank you very much for subscribing.

[@lavandaherwin4810]

Whaaaat?!! Another video from you so soon?!! YAAASSS 😊

[@simmpleenough]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@malikaeastonAllahfirstanfamily]

Alhamdulillah,Allah is best planner. Your so true we have to roll with things when it comes our way. Growing and learning , in your van life journey. Your home is amazing love your kitchen, everything comes together after time. You have great parents 😊

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊. Things are going much more smoothly these days. Surely, with hardship comes ease. Alhamdulillah.

[@malikaeastonAllahfirstanfamily]

@@simmpleenough May Allah continue to guide you, I plan to start van life in September and Inshallah work on my final free soon. May Allah guide us. I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers

[@LeilanisJourney]

I'm so glad you are ok and things seem to be doing better for you. Looking forward to your next video.

[@sachaeugene9203]

I'm happy you feeling better and everything has normalize for you.

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you!

[@SarahQMalone]

Monique - Wonderful video. However, the cold symptoms you describe in this video sound exactly like Covid. So glad you're all over it and healthy now! 🙏🏼💖

[@TheVideoGamHer]

I'm sorry you had such a hard time starting van life. It will get easier, love.

[@simmpleenough]

Things have been much better, these days. Thank you ❤️.

[@Eyesis_1]

Thank you for the update. Glad things are back on track for you. Stay safe and TFS. 🧡

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you!

[@myboyzr2]

Oh Monique! So glad to see you! A rough start must mean smooth sailing onward! Things happen in 3’s so they say..your 3 are done! I wish you only the best!

[@simmpleenough]

I’ve heard that, too (about things happening in 3’s)! Thankfully, things have been going much more smoothly lately, so hopefully it’ll stay that way for a little while.

[@audreyscott6918]

Girlie if your parents need another daughter I would love to stay there with them cause they seem so wonderful!❤😊

[@simmpleenough]

I took a screenshot of your comment and sent it to them! It made their day 😊❤️.

[@audreyscott6918]

@@simmpleenough I was seriously. I love excellent parents.

[@SarahQMalone]

Wow! Vanlife sounds like a great way to develop patience! 💪🏽♥️🤗

[@simmpleenough]

It IS!!

[@ritawoodfork3086]

Wishing and praying for the best for you! Have a safe and blessed journey!

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you so much.

[@abigailmendoza2502]

This is a very realistic situation. Thank you for sharing. I lived in my SUV for 6 months and i got a horrible infection from not drinking enough water and severe chest pain. I still have a passion for roaming free so i might try it again. Fear has gotten in the way for the past 3 years. A regular home got very comfortable and feels very safe...

[@simmpleenough]

That sounds like it was a rough experience. I can understand your hesitation to jump back into this lifestyle. Maybe one day, but if you're happy living in a regular home, then there's nothing wrong with that!! I hope to buy land and live in a home, at some point. Then, I'll just travel in the van whenever I feel like it.

[@Mystique_Queen]

Who awesome content.🤗 I happy to see you doing better and starting your journey ❤ I am excited to see your next video Inshallah.

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you!

[@jeanettechampagne825]

I just love you and your family. Stay blessed ❤️❤️❤️

[@higgnbe]

Glad you're doing better your power should be connected to your alternater for times like the rainy days and remember if it's hot go higher head to the mountains

[@simmpleenough]

I have my power connected to my alternator! It makes van life much easier, having more than one charging option. Thank you for the advice 😊

[@acutee2]

Assalam alaikum sister, thank you so much for sharing this. InshaAllah you can have a mahram travel with you for your longer road trip so you will have some support and protection. Please visit the masjids along the east coast. I traveled from Florida to New Hampshire in a sedan and really liked go to different masjids to pray.

[@simmpleenough]

Wa alaikum as salaam! Thank you for the suggestion. I do hope to visit several masajid during my travels, inshaAlllah.

[@WhatUDoLemmyou]

I'm so glad your finger is better. You should've went to the hospital for paper trail ro sue the company that made the water jug. bcuz it was made poorly the fault is on that company.

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you. It’s doing much better.

[@simplyjoyfully]

Honey, I wanted to give you such a big momma hug!! I hope you are settled in to your new van life now and really enjoying life!! Stay safe! ❤

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you ❤️. Things have been much better lately, thank goodness!

[@Olasumbo888]

Welcome to van life family. New subscriber. Year 2 of my van life. Much success and prosperity

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you so much! I appreciate you subscribing.

[@MsRiceTravels]

You’re very lucky and blessed to have such supportive parents ❤

[@simmpleenough]

I am. I’m so grateful for them.

[@Shemsa08]

You truly persevered. 🙏🏽I know first hand how rough it can be especially when sick and feeling like you have no relief in the vehicle. Your family is so beautiful thank you for sharing your journey 😊

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you so much ❤️

[@ev_evolves]

That was a gnarly cut! Sorry that happened. I’m sure on top of the pain it was an inconvenience too!

[@simmpleenough]

It was SO inconvenient! Showering and washing dishes were especially difficult because it hurt so badly when water or soap seeped into the bandage. Thankfully, it's healed now.

[@ev_evolves]

@@simmpleenough I got a little cut on my finger no where near as severe and I was such a baby about it. You’re a trooper!😊 Good luck on your adventures in van life! I’m a new sub!

[@kellybrown6149]

Hey girl, at least now you have more room to cook some amazing dishes to show us😊

[@simmpleenough]

I know! I love my little kitchen 😊

[@patrwhtt]

Continued Blessings. You have many.

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you ❤️

[@maroonKopper]

Get a air purifier it will help circulation of air

[@Arkiabethay82]

Hi!!!! I was watching Jennella Eliana video and she does van life and she said get a hammock for the summer time it’s much cooler….. It’s in her first video if you want to watch it ….. Anyway I glad everything is somewhat working out for you…. But like you it will take trial and error before you get the hang of it…. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@simmpleenough]

I’ve seen a few van lifers add hammocks to their van! It’s a smart idea and I do want to try it one day.

[@Nita-hr7gz]

Enjoyed your video 😊 have you ever considered removing your front passenger seat to give you more space for your refrigerator and extras? Just a thought.. safe travels

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you 😊! I removed the front passenger seat in my Buick when I lived in it and after getting in an accident I had issues with a couple of collision centers who refused to work on my vehicle without the seat being put back in. I made a couple of videos about it. I want to remove the seat in my van, but don't want to go through that again, so I think I'll leave it for now.

[@SarahQMalone]

Wow! That's a great caution. I removed my front passenger seat to prepare for car camping, but from now in I'll be aware of possible insurance implications in case of a collision! 😮

[@BluuJourney]

cool...ya making it happen!

[@simmpleenough]

I’m trying!

[@nichols746]

love ya,,hang in there

[@simmpleenough]

Thank you!

[@SunshineJoleen]

Been binging your videos. Thanks for sharing your adventures! Who is Moussa though? And can you do updates on how close you are to achieving your dream of buying land, or when you expect/ hope that it will happen? My dream life looks different from yours, but I think fundamentally we want many of the same things... and I'm currently debt-free except for my mortgage... woohoo!

[@simmpleenough]

Hello! He is my partner. We're long distance and I don't film when we're together. He has no desire for van life, but completely supports my choice to do it. I'll definitely do update videos on our land purchase, but it'll be at least another 3 years of saving money before we can consider buying land, which is why I don't mention it often at the moment. I'm happy you enjoy my videos. Thank you and congrats on being debt free!! No school loans, no personal loans, no credit card debt, WOOHOO!!! It's a beautiful feeling that I hope many more get to experience in this life.

[@t.terrell7037]

Please forgive me because I’m not watching the videos in order. Did you just save up for the van while living in your car? Congratulations on getting it!😊 Thanks for all the great insightful info for those that want to live a nomadic lifestyle

[@simmpleenough]

It's okay 😊. I'm happy you're browsing through my channel! Last year, I was in a small car accident when I lived in my Buick Encore. The Buick was declared "totaled" and my insurance company gave me a check for it. The check was pretty nice, so I used that money, plus money from my savings, and bought this van in November 2022.

[@t.terrell7037]

@@simmpleenough that’s fantastic! I’m learning so much for your videos and thanks for the Q and A video. Continued success and thanks so much for what you are doing!!! It’s really refreshing to see other people that think like you and have similar goals. Stay safe🙏🏾

[@venetiakelley]

I would’ve got rid of that jug….

[@theaouch4749]

You served in the US Army?

[@simmpleenough]

No, my mom and dad did.

[@Joannlumpkin5432]

I noticed something about you that you giggle after you complete a sentence....... WHY ????????

[@simmpleenough]

😂😂😂 I love this question. But I have no idea why I do that.

[@SarahQMalone]

It's part of what makes you cute and amazingly YOU, Monique!

[@mscox1059]

🎥🚐🚙 We don't see enough of you.

[@simmpleenough]

I’m trying to be more consistent now that the van build is done!