The Squish of the Mud and Finally Camping | Van Life Vlog

[@christinamann3640]

Spammers and scammers on almost every comment! I just went through the whole section and reported each one of them like I was weeding a noxious weed out of a garden. Pickled 🍆 why can’t KZbin do more about getting rid of them? Don’t be fooled everyone!

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you so much for doing that!! I'm going to pin this comment so hopefully other people see it too. Meanie head scammers need to get lost! P.s. I just re read and saw pickled 🍆. I'm dying! 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣

[@SunshineAspirations]

I had one on a comment on another video, you must have been the amazing person who reported them all! Thank you! I was going to do the same.

[@christinamann3640]

@@WaywardAbode idea for merch! 😂😂😂

[@WaywardAbode]

@@christinamann3640 I love it! 😂😁

[@Wernotfree]

Thank you! 🙂

[@lindy2]

We never say where we are publicly until after we leave for safety sake 💜💙

[@cathleen537]

Your energy is changing. Higher vibrations! Glad things are getting better for you!

[@amyd1549]

Absolutely noticable! Confidence to the max!! 😊

[@booksie1]

The love of Bob Marley and allergy to the sun: we have so much in common. Love watching you ❤

[@sherriclearlake1611]

See, if you add a donation button, then you get new tires, and you get to go more places, and then WE get to go more places, so really it's for US!!!

[@terrydavis5223]

Hi 🐦, Trust your instincts. If you're scared? Don't do it. ❤

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you!!

[@melissaansell2455]

Always

[@Heartofgoldhandsarecold]

Always

[@janmiebebekian7862]

Number 1 rule. Go with your intuition.

[@CeeBreeze-e3n]

"Feel the fear but do it anyway" is a wonderful old book worth reading

[@cathyjay2569]

Every time you park somewhere and crawl into that little house of yours ITS A WIN!!!! ITS A WIN!!! You are a winner! And you, dear Birdie, are a HERO!❤TN Nana

[@VensVibrantNailsandBeauty]

I am only 6 minutes in, but I am already hollering at my phone about what a great job you are doing and you are making perfect, logical and well-thought out decisions all the way through! To turn back and not attempt the mud was wise if you know you cannot afford or do not have access to help if you might need it! To leave a text for your daughter to let you know that you are okay so she doesn't worry. To abandon the search and go stay in town when you felt too overwhelmed. To listen to your intuition when it was telling you that you didn't feel comfortable with the camp area that already had many people, or the one where you were 20.miles away from cell service. It's good to push yourself to do things you are nervous about. And you did. It is also good to choose the safe/safer option if you are feeling too far past your boundary. I camp often solo with my service dog in places without cell service or any amenities. Boondocking in random primitive settings feeds my souls. These are the things I do to keep myself as safe as possible. 1. Aim my vehicle so I can pull out forward to make a quick exit if the situation turns crazy at any point. I can replace items I might need to leave behind. Or, if I felt comfortable, I could go back at a different time, or with a companion to see if I can retrieve my things. I also hang my keys from my gear shifter, but I don't have the benefit of a panic button or automatic locks. I would keep my keys near my physical bed if I had that feature on my vehicle. Wherever you keep them, know where they are at all times. 2. I send gps coordinates to at least 2 separate people who are not in the same physical household. So often that ends up my mom in Missouri and my sister in California. My mom lives with my dad and adult son, and my sister lives with her husband. So, that ends up being 5 adults who know where to start looking for me if I don't turn back up or if an emergency happens. I try to get the coordinates to be as accurate as possible, so I've been known to find my spot, copy the exact coordinates and then drive to a place where I have cell service long enough to send the coordinates before heading back to the desired spot. 3. I also tell these same people how long to expect to not hear from me and a specific day to start worrying and looking if I don't turn up. If I end up with a moment of cell service like in town for supplies or on a walk or something something, I will also shoot them a quick text to say that I'm still alive. Often though, I go for a week at a time and prepared so I don't have to leave. All people I notify have copies of my license plate and description of my vehicle and medical history so they can help first responders find me and treat any illnesses or injuries quickly. Even if I can't communicate. They also have copies of my Advance Directive and DNR, but I keep these all with me as well as emergency contact numbers. I keep a physical slip of paper in my pocket with the phone #s, and a photo ID on my person as well. Also, there are tracking apps available where you can give permission for your daughter (and others) to be able to see on a map where you currently are all the time, or when you have it on. I'm going to go watch the rest of your video now. I hope my suggestions help someone to be more comfortable trying solo camping when they are ready.

[@WaywardAbode]

You are so awesome! Your encouragement just blows me away. And your tips are perfect! I'm gonna keep those. Thank you so, so much! 🥰🤗

[@jenamann3484]

Awesome advice!!

[@anitacash5919]

Thank you for your wise and wonderful tips!

[@AdrienneMcGuire]

Life360! Great suggestion!

[@angelabarnes1547]

From joy and laughter, to laughing crazy to serenity etc. what a wonderful style you have! Like NO others on YT! Keep it up and don't let your height ever get spoiled 😊.

[@WaywardAbode]

I can't thank you enough for saying that. Sometimes I worry I'm too all over the place. Your comment means a lot to me. I hope you're having an amazing evening!

[@mightymouse1005]

Maybe an emergency wind up radio would be good. Mine takes batteries, plugs in, has a solar panel and winds up. It also has a phone charger. It was 40 bucks on Amazon.

[@thesandarabc]

When you said "There's just this relief", I breathed more deeply. It's real, that need for wilderness, and it thrills me that you are getting to experience such beauty. (And the animation is fun!)

[@Out_GalliVANtin]

Katherine Lee Bates wrote “America the Beautiful” while sitting atop Pike’s Peak in Colorado. When I saw Pike’s Peak in 2016, I was like “Ohhhh! It’s literally PURPLE! That’s why she said that!”

[@VensVibrantNailsandBeauty]

Cool! Answer is right from the source of the lyrics too! Thanks for sharing this!!

[@Out_GalliVANtin]

@@VensVibrantNailsandBeauty Absolutely!!! :)

[@mooselll]

I always love seeing your videos come up.

[@WaywardAbode]

I feel the very same way when your comment comes up!! ❤️

[@Saoirse.n.Murphy]

Are there paved roads in California, haha. You need to put the donation button up, so we can get together and get you new tires. Good heavens gal! Safety first, please!

[@WaywardAbode]

You're absolutely right - I should be more careful! I'm trying to be. But I also want to be a brave girl! It's a hard line to walk. lol.

[@RachelBarr3]

I agree! Put up that contribution button. That isn't asking for funding. It's totally an option for those of us who want to see you thrive, make more videos, and keep on truckin'.

[@honeycharles8576]

Yes, I would like to contribute to her on a regular basis. So many other van lifers are making bank and she is just squeaking by so sharing is caring.

[@cheryellemley-mcroy6758]

Are there paved roads in California? Think 405.

[@AdrienneMcGuire]

I think she will get quite a following if she keeps making videos!

[@sophiedereans]

'Deep Thoughts with Camping Birdie' - 😂😂😂. I just love this kind of humour!

[@deborahdavis3639]

Trust me girl long sleeves, pants, hat, benadryl on hand always. Aloe vera.

[@Trina30064]

😂😂 Pickled WHAT????? 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 Oh my, I can’t breathe! 🤭😅

[@sweetheart.nikkilee430]

I also loved that 😂

[@christinamann3640]

Same ROFL!

[@cheryellemley-mcroy6758]

I'm sure she said pickled peanuts! 😅

[@Trina30064]

Ahahah! Dear Birdie, any comment to our ‘discussion’ going on here? 🤭

[@CarrieMtn]

My friend from the south says “ boiled peanuts” as her “cuss word”. I’ll share with her your pickled “peanuts”😂

[@shellykp33]

What a beautiful camping spot. You are doing it Birdie! Even though you're scared you are doing it. Be proud of yourself girl. 💖

[@jeanroeder5534]

Always follow your instincts, don’t question it just follow your gut instinct.

[@PhyllisHarmon-pz6os]

Loving your videos. Thank you for taking us along and letting us see what you see

[@boltonsrus1]

The other thing to try is to go for a walk along the road to check out what is ahead. We do that a lot in the Australian outback to make sure we can pass especially if there are creek crossings or the road is muddy. X

[@firequeen2194]

Love that you saw a hummingbird. A hummingbird spirit animal symbolizes joy, freedom, perseverance, creativity, love, and healing. It encourages us to live in the moment, to be open for change, and to pursue our dreams with optimism. It’s small size and ability to fly in all directions represent flexibility and freedom. Sounds like the perfect message sent to you by the Divine Birdie! Next time, go around the bend, lol. 🤞. Love ya!

[@sheona7693]

I was wondering which message it brought, so thank you for translating.. It is so right for Birdie to have the message from a hummingbird.

[@ChardeeMacdennis339]

Oh man. That view 😍😍😍

[@SweetiePieTweety]

You are SO BRAVE!!!! A Warrior Woman and you are not “dumb” but sometimes we all feel like a dumb bunny in a new situation. Yes trust your instincts you did great!!!!! And I am allergic to the sun too… since I was 18, first Texas girl trip to the Florida Beach. It comes on but will play peek a boo. Mast Cell Activation. But I laughed so darn hard when you said just like that boy in 6th grade and 7th and 8th…. Oh I can relate. So proud of you! And yes being someplace you are “allowed” is like a huge weight off the load you are carrying. Huge hugs 🤗 Enjoyed the trip we took together it so feels like you know we are with you. I am friend so with you❤ Need more “Deep Thoughts” inserts. You got some skills 👍

[@catherineb5066]

I love the Deep thoughts with Camping Birdie 🐦 so very much too😘💝💐💝

[@kellysherman8986]

My dad lives in Cirus Heights! Any way, I’m in Washington, and you can over night at Tractor Supply, Bass Pro Shop, Cabellas ,some lows,some Home Depot’s, Costco,and Sam’s club. Just to let you know. Big hug

[@WaywardAbode]

Excellent tips - thank you!!!

[@verlenefults2419]

I love water too. My ideal would be near water always. Not too excited by the dirt and desert. My parents used to love camping at Quartzite but not me 😅

[@Me4peace]

Oh Birdie, please avoid places where you have no cell service. It's just not safe. If you ever pass through north Iowa, you can stay with us. We have a farm with plenty of room.

[@theupcycledshed]

That hummingbird was attracted to your red sunglasses. I have had them dive bomb me in the garden when I have my red sunglasses on. It is definitely startling but also so freaking cool! Happy camping!!

[@deb7518]

I just thought of something: those red sunglasses are the same color as the red "hummingbird nectar" some people put out for them. He thought you were a HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER!!😮😮😮

[@WaywardAbode]

I didn't think of that! But it makes perfect sense. Now I want to wear red sunglasses all the time! 🤩

[@theupcycledshed]

@@WaywardAbode YES! I love when the "visit". They are fairly skittish and I have never actually had one run into me. It's just way cool to get them to come that close to you. Isn't the sound of their little wings zipping amazing?

[@nicola_k-s]

YAY!!!! You got out of the city! Well done you!! Looked very pretty! Always trust your gut and when you stopped, I could see it was just a dirt track going off into the distance. So hummingbirds have a spiritual meaning when sighted, it signals that challenging times are over and healing can begin. Also a sign of hope and good luck.😊 Rugged tyres are a good idea or weight your boot down so you gain more traction. I know with my little car, this is what I have to do with snow. Your AI logo could be your sticker design. That rash sounded like 'Prickly Heat' which is a heat rash. Chamomile lotion is good to use or use acool damp cloth to cool down. In the meantime, make or buy an awning for the side of the car. Hope your feeling better😊

[@wextremeart4399]

Yes i have had sun poison before

[@callmepr117]

Seeing other people occasionally is not a bad thing and at night things will be quiet. Stake your claim girl!! I’m proud of you 🙂

[@WaywardAbode]

You're such a good friend, PR! 🤗

[@Tashimoto3359]

..also you need to add "by me.a coffee" or a link like that for donations from people who appreciate the videos!

[@amypellerin2368]

You should be so dang proud of yourself. 😊 I can already see so much more confidence in you since you started....way to go Birdie ❤

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you, Amy! That's so cool to hear. :)

[@amyd1549]

Go Birdie Go! This is your calling! Enjoy!

[@beckym4550]

Birdie! Win Win!! Great video! Beautiful too! ❤❤

[@sandeedobberstine5591]

Hi Birdie, you sweet lady. Has anyone taught you to gear down when climbing or in the slippery stuff. Most people keep their car in overdrive and just forget it. If you pull your gear shift just one notch down you’ll have more traction. Don’t forget to put it back in overdrive for streets and roads😊 I enjoy your videos!⭐️ Pretty countryside. I thought you did a good job of parking. Thanks for taking us along.❤

[@findingbalance7884]

My first time I saw a hummingbird in real life I ALSO thought it was a large scary insect at first! They're very very different than most birds in flight.

[@yrankin1]

Ha ha! You are like me. I always jump out to admire beautiful scenery- especially water views.

[@Sage1212]

Oh Birdie this video made me smile a huge smile 😄 not only did you beat your fears and do some beautiful camping but you allowed me to vicariously do it with you and therefore knock down some of my fears to camp alone in my vehicle... so a big big big thankyou 🙏 those pink trees were so pretty and the views and stream so beautiful. Gosh I love your personality... keep being you because you are the bomb 🥰 see you on the next one 🖐

[@lesb9613]

You are constantly learning by going through these tough experiences. Thank you for sharing, i feel like im there with you 🎉

[@rositaprincesa1930]

Thank you for taking us with you, on your adventure, I enjoyed the ride.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@mightymouse1005]

Key to muddy roads. Go SLOW, never let ur tires completely stop.

[@Kimbers58]

Poor little insect must be so Discombobulated 😂 Fantastic video 💙💖💜 Trust your gut, Be safe.. You did good 👍

[@kiris1323]

Lmao that ghoul jump scared me 😂😂😂

[@Heartofgoldhandsarecold]

Er my gosh.... the nostalgia that flowed from hearing "Deep Thoughts" Jack Handy 😅 Good to see you again T! 💃

[@WaywardAbode]

I'm so glad to hear that! I knew a lot of our community would remember that. :)

[@HRreject]

@@WaywardAbode That part was the BEST!!! Thank you :)

[@Scarletsky138]

That road is muddy! OMG!

[@joycecollins5796]

Good on you girlfriend for doing this riad trip!!! As you know it's always sn adventure!! The more you explore the better you will get-'Yesss good tires should be a priority when you get some money saved up and keep your oil changes and fluids up-to'date!! Alll the best❤❤❤

[@RositaHuff-yx2bg]

…you are doing a great job….and I wish you all the beautiful things….please keep a diary! …sending sunshine from barbados………

[@cassyharrison3592]

That was fun, and what beautiful views. I can imagine the weight lifting off your shoulders when you were there. Wonderful peace!

[@francesdunne9275]

Love watching your videos, watching from the east coast of Ireland. Wishing you only good times

[@WaywardAbode]

That's so sweet! Thank you so much!!!

[@Cindy-u2p3q]

Love the "deep thoughts" section.. you should keep that going! Fun!

[@WaywardAbode]

That's awesome! Thank you!!

[@MichelleLaw-b5d]

Loved the views, but you gave me a jump scare with the zombie 😂😂😂❤

[@wextremeart4399]

Im proud of u good job yes its beautiful

[@tinaweder9252]

Deep thoughts - cracked me up! ❤

[@kgreene460]

I love that illustration of the bird driving the van!

[@jessicarotich1103]

You should sell stickers of that Birdie!! Or even tshirts or something!!

[@kgreene460]

@@jessicarotich1103 Yes, merchandise, great idea, Jessica!!

[@ErnestAsh-f2i]

You are such a hoot 🙂. Watching your videos is one of the highlights of my week 🙂.

[@isearcheduwin3132]

Hope you turned around to head in the right direction. Always point your vehicle in the direction you are exiting. Beautiful area. Good for you going and do trust your gut but try to go a little farther. If too worried walk down the road to see what is down there. Hugs

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you for the encouragement. I'll definitely try to go farther next time! 🤗

[@shelveyphillipsbowman8037]

U made a good choice.mud is not good.i love your attitude

[@lesb9613]

Hahaha you are so funny 😅 I love our singing voice too, and your energy is motivating ❤

[@bettybrigance6784]

Your so happy to just be there...👍👍

[@atschik]

Lovely content, so much fun to watch you and the beautiful landscspe. Hugs!

[@linannskillings5050]

Hi thank u birdie i just had a mini heart attack when that thing came out from behind that shed. Oh my. Wow 😆 😅😅my sons laughing at me..i loved your camp beautiful 😊

[@DianaGreeven]

Almost caught up with all your videos. Almost there! ❤

[@cherylhikes2234]

Omg you’re awesome ! I love listening to you , you’re hilarious

[@bestboomer2573]

So beautiful!

[@VensVibrantNailsandBeauty]

I call it a win. The conditions were compromised with the mud and I think you made a wise decision to not go farther since you didn't know what you would maybe run into. It will still be available to explore in the future. 🙂

[@diann546]

Get 2, 4+ boards 1" x10"x1'. That way you can level yourself off on the low side. Your are right. Even a little incline can make a big difference when you are in bed! My husband and I drove our RV to Alaska last year. By the end, we had learned that we could even level the truck's rear wheels. It made up for the incline and also let us stay hitched. We picked up a whole pile of rv levelers for $1 each, at a thrift store. We already had a set, but in mountainous terrain, it helped a lot to be able to level side to side and front to back. There is a learning curve. You are persevering and the reward is great. So happy you are sharing your journey.

[@Mindfulmaven7]

Super excited to see your channel growing. Came in yesterday and you were 15.8 and today you are at 16 thousand! YAY 🎉

[@underworldgirl1961]

I get SO much joy from your videos. Sending love from middle Tennessee.

[@Stumblingthroughlife]

If i still lived in Sac area I'd let you park outside my house on occasion...It'll be summer soon so you'll be less likely to encounter mud...if in Sacramento still they have cooling centers during the hotest days but I'd suggest heading to the mountains as it's always cooler during the days. Checkout highway 49 near Grass Valley. The Yuba river is beautiful and worth the visit. Independence trail is very accessible if you want a little hiking. Went to high school up there and my grandparents lived up off 49 off.

[@marilynbuenconsejo1090]

Thanks for the info. I live in my SUV in Stockton.

[@fleck36]

😊❤

[@wextremeart4399]

I am loving your channel

[@MarleeDecember105]

OMG, the trees are beautifully shapped, and that sunset to foggy morning transition was everything. 😃 Giiiiiirl, that creature scared the crap outta me! LOL! I'm so happy you enjoyed yourself in the wilderness, minus the sun allergy.

[@susanjack4099]

I came across your KZbin channel last week and watched all your previous videos and have really enjoyed them and think you have an awesome channel. You were very brave to keep going and what an amazing view. Travel safe.

[@jr-mynext50years41]

Beautiful view! Stay safe

[@susantiffany2355]

Wow, that was so entertaining to watch. Deep Thoughts should be in every video…so funny. Congratulations on taking so many baby steps. Please keep sharing. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@jackiemaurer2595]

I’m glad you had 3 glorious days camping. You go girl! You sure are entertaining!

[@dianesilverstein6475]

Cracker Barrel Restaurants allow overnight stays. You need "all terrain" tires rather than "highway" tires. You found really pretty spots to stay at! That was probably a ruby-throated hummingbird and they're attracted to the color red...your sunglasses! Nature is a healer! 😊❤ OH, your worries about tipping your van over aren't necessary!! Safe travels! 🎉🌻🐦

[@mightymouse1005]

In my area, Cracker Barrel Chic Fillet Several Walmart Allow vehicles overnight

[@rhondayoumans9845]

Birdie you are such a delight! I’m trying to get my nerve up to do some solo car camping. I’ve joined a car camping group. My first experiment is to drive over to the Cracker Barrel and spend the night. My husband, my friends and neighbors think I have lost my mind.

[@lifeoflucretia]

Always follow your gut and your abilities. 🎉 LUCRETIA

[@barbc5947]

Your emotional growth is commendable!! I don't camp or even travel in a van....I am watching just because you have a beautiful soul!🤗💟😎💖

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

Pass on deep mud. Been there done that 😊 Nice virw!view! I do have mud and snow tires. You will too.

[@karinhart489]

Not a fail! You got out of dodge (Sacto)! It looks beautiful! Just the break you needed! Love seeing your table, chair & solar panels out! Yes, I jump too when hummingbirds sneak up on you to buzz your ears.

[@jamierussellville101]

You should put mud chains (or something similar) on your wishlist. I'm from Oregon so I understand the rain and mud. My hubs was a ups driver for a while and he kept a camping shovel just in case, cuz Oregon. 😅 Also is there a way we could do a AAA yearly membership fund for you so you could have the piece of mind just in case.

[@manie54321]

I relate to the contrast of sensation between city and nature. 🌷Thank You🌻 be well and always follow your instincts.

[@mightymouse1005]

If you get stuck, look for good sized rocks, branches etc to put in front of your tires for traction

[@kandihill7132]

You are so wonderfully courageous! I just admire your spirit. Much love to you. 💖

[@WaywardAbode]

Hi, Kandi!! Thank you so much! 🥰

[@enough1494]

If you are ever near Louisiana, you are welcomed to come visit!

[@wendyleland3986]

Keep some cardboard or a couple of those little carpet squares that Walmart has sometimes in the van. That way you'll have something to put under a tire, get enough traction and get unstuck

[@wextremeart4399]

You will be OK i do it all the time. I only do campsite free ones lol u got this

[@dorray4971]

You are looking at Cache Creek along Hwy 16. ❤️

[@SandraTye]

Wise boon docking decision. The challenge of the continued upward drive was the real WIN!!! Sharing time with a humming bird was a bonus. Lovely trip. Thanks for sharing.

[@larkendelvie]

LOL - Your deep thoughts on mud reminded me of the feel of mud between your toes -- so cold and icky.

[@WaywardAbode]

Yes! But I can handle that better than dry dust between my toes. I'm shivering just thinking of it! 😂

[@darlenem4940]

We have a property in clear lake. Wish I knew you were going to be there you could stay there as long as you need. We're in reno

[@heathermacintosh5695]

Good call on the mud avoidance! Such a lovely spot - glad you got to enjoy the view for a while 😊

[@WaywardAbode]

Thank you so much, Heather! 🥰

[@lisamillard1272]

My goodness lady you are so funny and awesome.. I am super happy for your happy time 😊 it's so nice you are getting to relax outside of your van boy howdy enjoy ❤❤

[@atwistedlime]

If you have any space you should carry a small bag of cat litter. If you get stuck it can help get you out.

[@christinamann3640]

Just not the clumping kind, it sets like cement and never comes off

[@SheilaSchiller]

Now you got me curious on what’s past the bend

[@veronicamitchell9378]

She is so positive. I love that

[@angelgreensweight3939]

I am so glad you pushed through your fear! What an amazing view!

[@ruthcartwright3248]

you are more brave than me!