Van Life | Well, This Was A Wild Idea

[@margoburns9085]

Always look forward to your videos, whether they come out often or not. I will say it again, your unique filming style and easy voice overs are the best I have found. A true artist can't just pump out quality art. Keep doing what you are doing. No compromises. Love it!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you Margo 🥹🤍

[@thisguyishappy9501]

Your cinematographic ability to be omnipresent yet nowhere while playing with time to slow it down and speed it up is fascinating and visceral. You tell a story that many of us wish we could live out, like a great book. I'll continue to do so vicariously through your disparate lens of this world that is awe-inspiring and triggers in me a deep sense of need to go feel these same experiences. Happiness only exists when shared and you capture it beautifully. Thank you

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you 🥹 i’m still very much learning and sometimes it can feel like a useless endeavor - especially in the beginning stages of a video or the end (technical, tedious stuff is what really slows me down 🙃) remembering comments like yours definitely helps me in those moments 🙏🏻

[@thisguyishappy9501]

Occasions as such are opportunities !! and you certainly have risen up to the challenge time and time again. Do you recall the last time you thought, you are now where you used to want to be? nothing is useless … but perhaps … time consuming. Look how far you’ve come! A lot to be proud of😊

[@tonyhawk123]

I think the video editing slows down all creatives. It's not just you Christian. Its the most time consuming part, especially when aiming for this level of professionalism. Just try to compartmentalise it. Enjoy the creative moments, then treat the editing itself as completely separate - file it under work, subsection promotion/advertising. Maybe employ the Pomodoro technique for that part - that way, even at times when editing feels like slow progress, it still feels like an achievement.

[@ramfree27]

@@tonyhawk123 i was curious and looked up ... Pomodoro Technique ... is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It uses a kitchen timer to break work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks. (quick wikipedia search)

[@stevecrombie5357]

Christian, once again you've touched my heart. I hope that the way your videos are received by so many viewers shows how important your videos are to us. The life force of this planet that you share with us. Will you continue to do this, we shall see. I'm glad you took time for yourself and then sat down and shared with us. Stay safe. PS: You got moves girl! ❤

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you Steve ☺️🙏🏻

[@DS-nw4eq]

Oh, the life force… of the bacteria? The glorified bacteria? Who was alive in 800 AD?

[@rono33]

@@DS-nw4eq WTF are you talking about bacteria…so dumb

[@javieleetoo2213]

@@DS-nw4eq steve😂

[@andreakay3989]

You literally are filming/directing your own life into a movie and I love it

[@djclog]

I have to rub off a log everytime I watch

[@juckimal]

your videos are just so peaceful. Very calming. You are just real different than anyone else I have seen on youtube.

[@xavier11963]

Exactly, l do share them to a Friend and now she enjoy thé sérénité of them 🙏🪷✨

[@MatthewRivers-Davis]

Ahhh - dream weaver, moon-shot, log-walking - great to see the usual signature motifs - bet you ate a couple of chocolate cupcakes after that glass of red, - please, say it's so - if anything just to prove you're as mortal as all us other lardy Morlocks out here. 🤗Good to see 'happiness is an inside job', again. Keep up the long journey, Christian. xxx

[@GC-bd8zu]

As infrequent as they may be, you did most excellent on this one! Here's hoping you get inspired again & continue to share your odyssey with us.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you 🥲🙏🏻 definitely aiming to post more frequently moving forward

[@chancepantera106]

When you start dancing in the kitchen WOW! I have never seen anyone move quite the way you do. It blows my mind. You are amazing. GBY

[@DanWActual]

For anyone wondering, the song that starts at 7:30 is We Were Lovers by The Analog Affair. Great taste in music, Christian. 🙂

[@ChristianSchaffer]

🙌🏻 it’s such a chill beat

[@DanWActual]

@@ChristianSchaffer if you ever want to trade chill-vibed music back and forth, let me know! 🙂

[@theresalynch5447]

Thank you! I can't tell you how long and hard I tried to find out. 😁

[@DanWActual]

@@theresalynch5447 haha! That is the worst. I really like this song, so I figured someone else would like it as well!

[@VANESSASVANLIFEJOURNEY]

It’s hard to post often and enjoy the moment. That was a beautiful property in Montana just spectacular. Balance is key you’re doing a great job honey. Everything will come together. You’ll know what to do when it’s time to do it.

[@Cheesewiz]

I've been watching your videos for 2 ish years now, and I just wanted to point out how great you've gotten with your commentary/voice overs! It's been really cool seeing you evolve and improve on each one of your videos, and it's something that really shows in each and every one of your stories 🍻

[@wildzenventures]

This footage felt magical 💕 Your photography skills are inspiring! Happy to see you enjoying some self care.

[@pomskylifenova7344]

Best vlog yet for sure 👍

[@jamesjinlee]

It just kind of happened, but seriously Christian you've become my favorite creator. I appreciate every second of your videos and am constantly inspired by you--especially when I need it.

[@nas4apps]

All your film, pictures, stories, compositions, choices on what to add into the production, seem so beautiful, often so powerful and at times also so fragile and temporal. I am always amazed, no clue where the story will bring the watcher. That is powerful! Thank you so much, not many programs or podcasts can match this. You also opened my eyes to look further, look around, listen, be and especially to make sure not to forget to be grateful. Thank you :)

[@ronlokk]

Quiet and beautiful places is what we all crave, at least once in awhile. You really found that little piece of paradise. So glad you were gifted some time at that beautiful Cabin and lake. Thanks for sharing the beautiful moments.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

sure was nice slowing down for a bit ☺️

[@jasoncochran853]

Oh snap! You did it! The perfect video... life in abundance. Like a good bourbon, a favorite sermon or holding my wife... so much love and color. This is a classic hit that will surely stand the test of time.

[@lasaintebarbe]

I'll take quality over quantity anytime. Yes you don't post often, but it makes them even more special when they are out. I'm always happy when I see there is a new video from you. Most of the time it ends up being the most beautiful, poetic, cinematographic images I'll see this week. A real treat. Thank you so much for this.

[@shesha_8858]

Since I've watched the first video I found of yours, I have been truly captured ❤ They're easy to watch, perfect music selection & an easy voice to listen to. It's hard finding videos that are calm & nt overwhelming 🤗 Thank you for your beautiful & inspirational videos, they have helped me reignite my own dreams & passions I once had bt for a long time have lost sight of. If I were you, i wouldn't worry or care too much about real time, staying relevant or any of the other things you've mentioned that cause you burn out..... Just staying true to yourself, what you're passionate about & what makes you happy is all that matters. Living your best life, filming incredible views, experiences, moments & sharing what you are comfortable with us is a privilege that only a few will really appreciate!! ❤ I will continue supporting & enjoying whatever you post 🤗

[@brads.3674]

Congrats on getting published in Backpacker mag! That's super cool. Always feels so good to see one's own work out in the wild. Glad to see you. It's been a while. Love the dancing in the kitchen segment!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

Thanks Brad 🙌🏻 having a big space to dance around in is honestly one of the main reasons i miss having my own place haha

[@bdphotographyvideo7423]

Christian, My wife and I always look forward to your videos. When we started down this path of nomadic life of living in a van, yours were some of the first videos we came across. This time last year, if you would have told me that we would have a 4WD conversion van I would have called you crazy. But yet here we are. I retired after 28 years of being a professional firefighter at 48 and my wife will retire at the same age. We only have so many days that are afforded to us so why waste them in the rat race we call life? We look forward to each video you put out. Your gift of cinematography / editing is evident in your videos. And this might be the most cinematic yet. Beautiful video and well worth the wait. Until the next one... We wish you nothing but safe travels and grand adventures ahead.

[@susandusenbury6352]

You have a gift for cinematography. I'm a amateur photographer, and I GET the editing struggle. Just know, every minute you spend putting something like this together, it not only documents it for future self, but all of us get to enjoy the pure creative energy and leave fulfilled in a way nothing else can provide.

[@ExpeditionAustralia]

Hey Christian, another great video. I can definitely relate to being overwhelmed with footage. I finished a 16 month road trip around Australia with my family and had over 200 hours of raw footage, on tape, to turn into a 10 episode series! So anyway 6 years later and a lot of long nights and I was finally done. It was quite the learning curve!!

[@AnishinaabeTrevorC]

I just finished watching this once again. It is my most absolute favorite. From the start of preparing for the bath, dancing in the kitchen and then with the beautiful deer in the background. It is all so beautiful. Wow Amazing ❤🤗🌹🙏🏾

[@erichschultz1093]

Absolutely LOVE the music!

[@mattisadventures]

She is back again with another great video! Love your work Christian 👏

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you Matti 🥲🙏🏻

[@bannerpage]

I really, really enjoyed this 4000 pieces puzzle all put together! Dancing in the kitchen was the bonus piece of it all.

[@julianbarron8338]

You’re a true inspirer. I’m grateful what you give to us and I’ll always be here to support you. I loved this one!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you Julian 🥲

[@paullewis7102]

"Every day a guessing game, which I both love and hate". The human condition for all, whether we're aware of it or not. And you ARE. Thanks again, Christian. You're offerings here are the very best. Nice to see my front yard, Chuckanut, too!

[@ivanf442]

Your videos have been always top quality but I have to confess this one is 10 out of 10.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

🥹🙏🏻

[@MARKCANEER]

You definitely have a gift, I may never overcome my laziness and travel again. Your videos have a sedative affect. On days I spend watching your work and listening to Justin Johnson's guitar playing, I can nearly get out of my chair. Stay Safe . I'm doing most of my going places through your videos. When I was younger I spent time camping and fishing and once went on a canoe trip from Northern Minnesota up into Canada and back. I Love the outdoors but don't get out n about like I used to. You keep posting and I'll keep watching 🙏👍😎🐕‍🦺

[@ontheroadwithralph1530]

I've been watching your videos for several years and have no memory of seeing you in a dress. Until this one. Plus cute dog shots, and _Risky Business_ moves.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

it’s true i always forget that i even own dresses 😅

[@LilyWasHereMB]

Oh Christian, where do I begin? Let's start with your friend. His house: excellent design and style are matched only by his composition skills - that shot of you in your wrap with his dog is phenomenal. His property, gorgeous. My partner and I have been offered some time at a place near Bozeman. 1,765 miles from home but, I think it will be diesel well spent. Now on to you. You're getting out of your funk; that's good but bad in a way because it contributed heavily to this post, which is stunning. I know it doesn't sound like a compliment, but it is, this video is filled with "wallpaper-worthy" imagery. Simply beautiful and it's not only because, well, because it's Montana. As for those feelings of being aimless and adrift, of missing out on "true" community, brush them aside. They are nothing more than the Past trying to hold you back while the Future beckons you forward. Cherish and honor the Past, but do not let it win the tug of war. You and your generation are on the cusp of a new way of living; continue to embrace it, don't fall backwards. That said, the Future is not all here yet, and the Past is putting up a good fight. Maybe there is middle ground, a hybrid lifestyle? Your friend seems to have found a way to embrace both freedom and roots. Spend more time with him.

[@jonc8179]

The internet is a better place with you in it. You are an amazing talent! I have missed this

[@goldgravelandtravel6451]

The “We were lovers” song is stuck in my head and on my playlist now.

[@istvanbally2817]

That shot of those beams of sunlight over the lake. Wow.

[@KaltrinaDemiri]

This was so beautifully shot and edited. Made me tear up and realize that I am letting my life just slip by and not living the life I want. Which is this.. to be in the open world and free.

[@davidboehringer5750]

Excellent. The cabin in the woods is simply exquisite. I could live there till the end of my time on Earth. And yes that is a beautifully haunting song.

[@webdaddy]

Christian, you photography and videography are a big cut above most vloggers. It is beautiful.

[@NoTime-ToSleep]

Wow - what beautiful footage. Amazing videos and drone shots. Happy to see you haven't given up on YT'ing... I really look forward to watching your videos. As far as the struggle I see with most van lifers between a nomadic life and a stationary 'home' life, I don't think there is an easy answer one way or the other. I think you need both. I've always done the 40-60 hour work weeks (many spent in cold emotionless cubicles) and yearn for the nomadic freedom. But most humans need a home base, stability, and companionship. As much as I would like to be free-roaming, I know I would also miss most of what I have now. I think there has to be a balance between the two...just finding that right balance is the challenge.

[@robertduran1353]

WOW! The girl can dance? You must be very happy &/or maybe got into that fermented grape juice? Ha! Like everyone said the video was super. My favorite part was when the train zoomed through blasting it's horn & then U went into all those stainless steel washing machines, what a perfect match, just priceless Chris. 📽

[@Biztalkcontrolcenter]

I felt transported (tele-ported) to that place where you were filming!! breathless wonder.

[@dero9711]

Aah, there it is, after the asparagus and mushrooms (yummm) a full display of your signature, pastel pink clouds. I have been missing that, well done, this montage is simply what made my day and it was NOT one of my bestest day. (lol). You know what I mean, thank YOU!!! Yay for hardwood floors and thick socks, weeeeeeeeee...Did you know there was a deer in the background or was it when you edited that portion that you discivered you were watched? Why are you doing what you are doing??? Because you can and you are good at it. You have a gift. Please don't stop. BTW, I love how you kept the anonymity of This Wild Idea. Thanks for leaving that album out for those that wanted to know, it's a great album (new to me).

[@brucenolan4384]

You let us know your spirit, and you let us walk with the spirit of the great outdoors, when blended together the energy is enchanting. Enjoy touching the divine, it is you.

[@Jeni-Tidbitz]

❤fellow human, thank you for this magical gift of being a guest allowed to view bits of your life. And this cinematography is truly your gift to the world.

[@monicamestas7566]

Your cinematography is just exquisite... and glad you used the whole song ;) There's a saying that Eventually we come to hate the thing we love. I think that is mostly true but I don't think it means we should necessarily stop. Just take respite from ourselves and our passions. I appreciate your sharing your thoughts outloud. Perfect uncertainty...................

[@tkochanoff]

Christian, congrats on your amazing photo published in BP magazine. After paddling all season, I appreciated seeing the paddle clips. Keep inspiring💥🤙

[@LanceBryantGrigg]

This is my first day watching and so far I have binged about 10 videos. I gotta say; I am going to be you. Software engineer here; happen to be a male and naturally i have a completely different setup in mind but.. watching your videos honestly makes me smile; cry; laugh.. its a joyous thing. Stay safe, enjoy!

[@kearnsey64]

Well, you certainly know how to put 4 puzzles together! I think this was one of your best! Thank you!

[@moses777exodus]

Hi Christian, I hope you are safe and warm during this nationwide freeze. Hopefully you are able to shelter some place warm. Safe travels and best wishes.

[@MichaelSteighner]

"Every day is .... in a way, a guessing game." ... beautiful creation as always Christian :)

[@buffalo068]

No matter how long between videos , each one is a work of art . Some van lifers that post weekly have a lot of repetition. Please keep sharing . We all need to see all the beauty that Earth has to offer . The color of that Montana lake …. ✌🏽

[@jeffboland624]

Great video. The music and scenery is very chill....puts me in a good place, so thank you! I'm always curious what your eyes see in certain shots so maybe you could comment every now and then on what you like about the video and scenery. I like the drone footage and would have loved a pullback when you were in the water, to add more perspective on the beauty and isolation of the location. Great job. Hope the new loo works out well (lol).

[@davidadamsmusic]

So good. I love the little details (camera inside the wash machine for a quick shot of loading) but mostly love the transparency and honesty of your human experience. We all walk a fine line between restlessness and contentment - sometimes daily…and your episodes really capture this. You are a modern version of Dick Proenneke. Alone in the Wilderness 2.0. Trust your wings and good luck on the next leg of your journey.

[@brwilkinson1977]

Yay... Very pleasant... Thank you ❤️ ... you're so torn.. In life.. 😉😂 Congrats on the Pic in the backpack magazine, plus this story. Thanks for being there.

[@BruceKaufmann57]

"Let it all sink in and do your best to appreciate whatever beautiful moment you find yourself in." Wow! You are as artistic with your words as you are with your videos. So many on KZbin make their videos only about them. You make your videos not just about you, but somehow, about all of us. I hope you never stop creating.

[@ChristianSchaffer]

thank you Bruce 🥲

[@JackieBrown111]

Dancing in the kitchen is the best feeling. Thank you for reminding us how satisfying it can be.

[@johnrogers6221]

Stunning, just stunning! Thanks Christian.

[@darrellbrown8165]

Well from a nondancer, I thought your dance moves were great, and the dog footage was a fantastic bonus! Once again, you have proven what great photography/video skills you have, and more importantly proven what an intelligent attitude you have toward life. I am hopeful that I can start my next great adventure before long!

[@ChristianSchaffer]

why thank you! 🤓🕺🏼 and cheers to your next adventure

[@thom_lester]

My wife & I enjoy your video-plogs! She and I lived full time in our Promaster 159WB custom build for over 2 years and saw some of the same country you highlight. Fun times. Happy to see U R enjoying the adventure too.

[@Schnupp911]

No one produces better van life videos than you thank you for keeping me motivated to live life

[@tammyhorrigan6459]

You are sublime, that house was sublime and your music choice is sublime!!! Sublime, sublime, sublime!!!

[@wjeffp]

Christian your evaluations come from the 222k that subscribe to your channel and the thousands that give you a 👍 every video. You are a creative talent that makes people wait for you video’s to be posted and awed by your talent !

[@AnishinaabeTrevorC]

I am hooked on that absolutely amazing song now my beautiful friend. And watching you dance in the kitchen was so beautiful. 🤗❤️🌹🙏🏾

[@tonyhawk123]

Hi Christian, a small request. Could you make the text overlays a smidge bigger please in future vids? The small font size is especially noticeable on a tablet sized screen. The videography is beautiful as always. Keep rocking.

[@lucaswoodhouse4111]

"It's the endless possibilities and the freedom to dream. To go wherever we want to go, and for however long. With no aim other than to experience and create." Best thing I've heard in a while. Great storytelling and shots as always!

[@Beastautos]

I love your stuff. We have the same doubts, worries and fears about being on the road but speaking about them while showing some of the most beautiful places in the world, you lift them same worries from our souls. Take care, big love, Matt x

[@stevecrombie5357]

Happy Thanksgiving Christian. I hope you are right where you want to be today. With people you love if possible. I have so many things to be grateful for today, I pray I don't forget them once this day is past. Stay safe.

[@neilarmitage6632]

Being alone is what I value above all else. Never get lonely. People disappoint me all the time, even when I expect nothing from them. The way I see it you have stability. Your van.

[@carldye5472]

I enjoy your photos an leaning to you stories. I always went east and south. Seeing your photos makes me wish I went West. I am to old to do it know i will just have to see it through your eyes. thank you keep up the beauty full work.

[@rsquitieri4057]

Always remeber the joy. You actually made a luandromat look good. You made power lines look good. Congrat on getting published in Outside Mag.

[@MatthewRivers-Davis]

Dance like 222K subscribers aren't looking 😄You seem more chilled in this adventure - you've had some beautiful images hit your retina in this video - expected to see a unicorn asleep on that deck it was so unreal.

[@RDaMyth]

This video brought a lot of peace to me. Thanks!

[@vikeng21]

As always superb high quality editing.

[@StevenSanchez-hj4rj]

Thank you for taking us with you! Out of chaos we travel on our journey to wisdom ,knowledge and understanding!

[@ryansingerdesign]

Hay Christian!! Awesome job dumping those 4 1000 piece puzzles together 🫶🏼🙌🏼😍 I’m really loving the new techniques you’re playing with, new colors, and there’s a lightness to it. It’s rad and still you. You’re evolving and it’s beautiful. So proud of you for getting loose and flowing on this one. It’s crunchy and expressive. Yum 😋 wishing you all the best 🙏🏼 Ryan

[@michaelshallue1801]

Wow, your photos made it in a magazine 👏 Beautiful colors and sunsets in this video!

[@chrise7137]

I've watched your vlogs for a long time but haven't for about a year now because I thought you were done. I was so happy to see you pop up on FYP and had to backtrack to this video and now I'll catch up. I always look forward to seeing what you post!!

[@rendeeplus3]

You are both so so talented and inspiring...this was a beautiful collaboration of creatives! So glad I found this video after following This Wild Idea for years! Great work Christian!

[@shelindapassee8492]

OMG I love the hat on the dog :)

[@ChristianSchaffer]

isn’t she the cutest?! you should check out @thiswildidea ig - Maddie wears many hats ☺️

[@pattin4015]

The artistic composition in your photography/videography is so amazing! How can one episode carry so much artistry? That bathtub scene with the deer in the window view is priceless.. I haven't finished watching, but every scene is filled with awesome views! Beautiful!!

[@davidadamsmusic]

I saw that scene and also marveled at the timing and artistry of it.

[@gingerrunning]

You're very talented at what you do. Thank you for your content. I've had fun binging this 'vanlife' playlist. :)

[@oliviatrelles]

I’m a long time fan of Theron and Maddie. It’s so fun to see you spend time with them not to mention the gorgeous film you captured. As always your videos feel like a longed for drink of water, refreshing and satisfying.

[@athollmcnicoll1028]

Documenting the life of a dog in the wilderness with his master and temporary friend . Thanks Christian for sharing - it is what we miss most about living in the UK - over crowding in precious spaces we call estates.

[@Flohdr76]

I see you chocolate cupcakes!!! Finally got the van up to Montana this past September - incredible place! Lovely content and Drone work on point as always!

[@zgelrevol9682]

Exquisit, is how your whole video landed here. I am catching up on your videos in reverse! Nice you took time. Unwinding has become critical to reset focus, and inspire the mind. Your sharing has helped shape and guide many, me included. No doubt our departure from where we are for 54 years will be a shift. I have two dogs who love the outdoors and plenty of places we want to see. Your insights have given me much to consider, thank you! z

[@TomArildHansen]

Oh God! That place! AND... your footage of it 🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@kazumimakwana1340]

just wow....amazing art...I understand why you don't post often like others as your content is such it requires time and patience and time to refresh...

[@cosmicwings7211]

Hey christian. I am so happy about your new video. As always excellent and magical. As if an angel with a delicate feather caresses my heart. You look so happy in this video. Makes me happy myself. I am also self-employed..and I understand your thoughts and feelings with ups and downs when you are your own boss. Be happy and loving to yourself. Sending you love and appreciation from Bali.

[@Banagal]

It seems real life is made up of moments that change like a kaleidoscope without a filter. Thank you for sharing your moments. Ahhhh....sweet.

[@francoisg1393]

I didn't think I'd ever see something this beautiful on KZbin... Everything about this video was perfect. The house, the lake, even the dog, but mostly you. I'll keep this video saved for future rewatch.

[@erichschultz1093]

Truly a beautiful video, it brought a huge smile to my face. Well done to you!

[@stevecrombie5357]

Wow! My last post was wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving and here it is the new year. Happy New Year Christian. I don't know where the winds have taken you, but I hope you are well and good with it. Stay safe and I look forward to hearing from you down the road. I know I'm not the only one out of 225K who loves you. ❤

[@MrSparklespring]

Being from Europe this video really gave me a 'Scandinavian' feel. Perfect scenery. I worked a few years as an entertainer and sailing instructor in hotels in Greece and Crete. I also began to miss a stable place I could call 'home' after a while I know the feeling. Great video and thank you your life as it is with all your ups and downs with us! ❤

[@lctapia23]

Christian I really enjoy your videos. Amazing! What you captured is breath taking. Very relaxing. Thank you for sharing. Stay safe.

[@wilmeraseasonedtech7172]

Those reflections on the water are breathtaking! Great drone shots! Always enjoy your videos. Keep it up!

[@lotusinmud56]

🌝 love the pink clouds 🌝

[@edkutschke814]

After a hectic day at work to find a video from you, heaven. Blood pressure down. Perfect melding of sound and vision.Appreciate you,Christian.Thanks

[@dianeschmiane]

Another stunning video as always, thanks for the continued inspiration. I can't imagine sorting through 4 one thousand piece puzzles (aka video clips) like you did... beautifully done!

[@jeremytorgersen]

Great video, as always very inspiring. I very much agree, freedom comes with a cost - yet a very worthwhile one!

[@SusanTurner-yo9lf]

Just found your channel,your footage is absolutely stunning, what a wonderful adventure. The cabin in the woods was breathtaking, what a blissful life you have!

[@popsrockz1372]

I've been waiting for you to post as I've only discovered you in the last couple months, so glad you have and I loved this video!! Keep up the amazing cinematography, it's very enjoyable!