VAN LIFE with a DOG | A Day In The Life | The Desert

We have learned that not one day of vanlife looks the same. Vanlife allows so much freedom and choice, but on this day we captured what chores, travel, and cooking looks like as van dwellers.
GoFundMe in honor of Lee Macmillan - www.gofundme.com/f/speakupforlee
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We are Linnea and Akela. In May, 2020 I purchased our 2016 Ram ProMaster, Togo, to become our full-time home. With this van build, I am using my stubbornness and drive to show individuals that they, too, can convert a campervan BY THEMSELVES and ON A BUDGET, with a lot of learning, rolling up the sleeves, and getting to work.
Our goal is to inspire individuals to chase their dreams... to break from societal limitations and live the life they truly desire. And, to GET OUTSIDE!
SUBSCRIBE for van build details, wanderlust travel, and the truth about van life with a big german shepherd!
Follow on Instagram: @linnea.and.akela

[@terryhubbard1141]

Love the lifestyle you have chosen. My wife and I had 5 good (retirement) years on the road in a 34 foot RV. Then in 2015 we left Rockport, TX headed to North Texas to visit my brother.....we had to stop for construction on Hwy 37 and were hit by a cattle truck. My wife had found a puppy 2 months prior to the crash....named her Christi after the city we found her in....Corpus Christi. My wife was killed in the back of the RV when it rolled over and I suffered a fractured right shoulder. The puppy was in the back with my wife. Christi survived without a scratch. It is now 7 years later and Christi is sleeping in her little bed beside me right now......snoring. LOL We do everything together and she is spoiled....can't help it. Love dogs.....good luck and safe travels.....

[@JordanHunter333]

Wow...just finding Linnea and Akela's channel, this video and your comment. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Devastating. And as I read your comment, it seems as well that your puppy has brought you so much strength and joy and love. They are magic, that way, these pups in our lives. May Christi share your life for many, many years to come 🙏, and always be a bridge to the spirit of your wife and your life and love together. 🙏🙏🙏

[@terryhubbard1141]

@@JordanHunter333 Thank you sir....just passed the 9 year mark. May is always a bad month for me.

[@buddyvibe9043]

We lost our 15yr old white shepherd, his name was Chip... Akela reminds me of him .. miss him terribly ty for video

[@wornoutwrench8128]

In my 63 years, I have seen some pretty impressive sunrises and sunsets. But DANG, that was pretty.

[@elaineconn7393]

I had just recently started following Max & Lee and fell in love with the beautiful places they visited and with the couple themselves. About a week into watching their videos, I was so surprised and sad to see what happened. I think of her smile, laughter and positivity and wondered how anyone could be so disrespectful and mean to her. Bullying is something I have absolutely no tolerance for. I remember their video in Ecuador I believe it was, where she was dancing with the llamas and thinking what a beautiful spirit she had. I have so much respect for all of you out there taking life by the horns and living authentically. I will always speak up when I see bullying!! She will be dearly missed and I am sorry for the loss of your friend. 💕

[@nataliejw8865]

Just discovered your channel and am really loving your awesome spirit and your adorable pup on adventures. That sunset view was truly amazing, glad you shared it with us. I'm sorry about Lee's death, it hit me hard as well even though I didn't know her in person she was a beautiful soul and a sad loss for this world.

[@nicovanzyl1979]

Nico 😗😘😍

[@user-kev-k5v]

You pick some amazing spots to park up for awhile and love to see everything through your eyes , love everything you do with your dog👍💖

[@lbjackson5179]

I followed Max and Lee from the beginning. As a student of reading body language there were times when Lee said or tried to show everything was fine when it was clear to me that she wasn't. She was plagued with depression and the guy the bullied her helped push her over the edge. She ended her life by jumping in front of a train, and she was fifty miles south of me. I was planning to visit her in the month she took her own life. It shook me so much I had to drop my sponsorship and following of a half a dozen channels on you tube and instagram. She was an inspiration and I was hurting from the loss of her life. I just couldn't hear about it anymore. I'm sorry for Max, who had to endure her sickness while being in love with her. He's a hero as far as I'm concerned. It takes a lot of encouragement to keep someone who's depressed from stepping off the edge so Max must of been harder and tougher then steel to deal with and be with Lee for so long. My hearts still broken over it. I tried to make her death seem like some romantic thing but each time I always came back to, she took her own life because she couldn't deal with one asshole who tore her down constantly. Why couldn't she see that thousands of people loved her and believed in her. Why couldn't she gain her strength from us instead of letting one dude convince her she wasn't a good person.

[@ItsJojiJoj]

I loved how you ended this, you kept it real. Yup, it doesn’t always look glamorous. Also, I’m an instant fan! Subscribed :)

[@SpoonieDoll]

this video got me too. First one and subscribed

[@charlottedahlman2795]

That part with losing the shallots is so relatable 😂

[@sharonunruh218]

Really enjoy your joyful spirit! I love your videos! You take me to places I will probably never get too! I also enjoy you music that you use in your videos! So tranquil! Thank you for sharing! I love it❤.

[@grahamambridge2856]

Awww... Whats cute-er than a sleepy dog in the morning!!! 😍., warmest regards. Sheffield England.

[@TheHapiCamper]

Just discovered this channel. Love your artistic cuts. And your relationship with your dog. So wonderful.

[@SuperLoriLee333]

Thank you for sharing this lovely day! I am so sorry about your friend Lee. I live in Santa Barbara and think about her everyday. She was a woman I did not know but I resonated with her light, her essence and felt her presence was a gift to us all. Blessings 🙏🏽💫❤️

[@julieelliott5807]

I also never knew Lee personally though you could tell she had a beautiful soul that radiated out to everyone. Such a tragic loss, I hope she knew we all loved her!

[@mandydoddFL]

Big hugs and so much love going to everyone that’s feeling the weight of this tragic loss. May her beautiful spirit live free from the burdens of this world and will surely live in the hearts of all of those that encountered her genuine soul.

[@kimmetcalfe6408]

Bless her

[@APC93]

Sorry for the loss of your friend 😥

[@jjs537]

???

[@APC93]

@@jjs537 watch the video at the end

[@RestaurantSeatingDesigner]

The end i just about cried. I understand big time.💯❤❤❤❤❤

[@wendyrees7942]

Hi beautiful. Just discovered your fantastic channel and I am instantly hooked . You are such an incredible, interesting , grounded , witty and warm person and I am so happy I found you . I have watched 6 of your videos already and am hungry for more . I mean the views , the wonderful places , Akela ♥️, what not to love . I have watched a couple of your videos with Q/As and they were so insightful . I do so enjoy my own company , I crave peace and quiet and peace of mind , but I know I could never be as brave as you ( also I am much older with health problems ) so it’s so great to see the world through your eyes . So look forward to finding many more of your videos and seeing the stunning places you visit . You absolutely, totally rock . God bless 🙏❤️

[@donnanichols6838]

I'm so sorry about your friend. There are no words that can make it better, and I am at a loss, as to what to say, to make you feel better, except that I am so very sorry, that you lost such a wonderful friend. Treasure your sweet memories of her and keep them close to your heart. I did not know Lee, nor do I know you, only became a subscriber today after watching a couple of your video's, but I am VERY familiar with the cruelty of people who have no conscience, empathy, or capacity to love. These are the kinds of people who bully others. Narcissists, sociopaths and psychopaths. I had no idea how many of them actually existed in this world, far more than I could have ever imagined, and they are everywhere, in every walk of life, hiding in the cracks and crevices of our life. They lay in wait, to pounce on the loving, kind, and thoughtful, caring people, who just want to do good in the world, and they use and abuse them. They troll social media, looking for people to bully, and break them down.. They are the scum of the earth, worse than slug slime, and they don't deserve our attention, so my best advise to all of you Good people, don't give them your time, or attention at all. If you encounter them on social media, or anywhere along your path in life. Don't bother to react in any way to them, just step over, or around them as though they don't exist, and be on your merry way. Forget whatever hurtful, or angering thing they said, it's not worth letting it take up space in your head. That's YOUR SPACE, and it's not available for rent to any scum... dont let them hurt you, change who you are or even give them the time of day.. Learn how to spot them easier, because they are very good and pretending to be good people til they get you caught in their snare. Then it's harder to escape them, but still not impossible. There are many KZbinr's that can educate you on what to look for and how to deal with them. One of them is Dr. Ramany. ( not sure if I spelled her name right, but shes a good one) She mostly talks about narcissists but its all relevant. There are many other ways to learn about them too, from books , etc Trust me its worth your time and energy to educate yourselves on these kinds of people, because they can do so much damage to you, if you let them in to your heads and lives. Big hugs to all who are feeling so sad right now. I so hope that this comment helps you all. Love yourselves, love each other, and support each other. And NEVER, EVER ALLOW ANYONE OR ANYTHING TO PUSH YOU TO THAT EDGE. THEY AREN'T WORTH ANYTHING, AND YOU ARE WORTH EVERYTHING!!! Never forget that!!! Sorry that this is so long, but some things cannot be said in short. 🍃🍃🤗🍃🍃XOXOXO

[@DiscoverSocial]

Linnea I love watching your videos. You are my spirit animal (in the best way possible!). I’m just building my campervan with my partner. The fact you built yours yourself is amaaaazing. You’re such fun to watch! I can only hope our paths cross one day and you can show me how to train my dog as well as Akela.

[@markwilkins9048]

This is great. I travel with my GSD in a Travato Van and can totally relate to your experience. Honestly, the most difficult part is finding time and space to exercise him. As you know GSD’s are high drive dogs and require a lot of exercise. I never feel nervous spending the night anywhere because I know how loyal my GSD is.

[@swavekbu4959]

GSD is the best dog, best companion ever . . .

[@katarina1852]

You and Akela are amazing. I look forward to your adventures through which I try to live vicariously a tiny bit. Thank you!😊

[@tammydemis7851]

Linnea, I absolutely love watching your videos with Akela. I look forward to them every week. You both are so special! I’m so sorry about your friend Lee. It seems she was friends of so many, as this is not the first time I’ve seen a post about her. I know all too well about mental health issues, personally. It breaks my heart, and it angers me regarding cyber bullying. My heart goes out to all who knew her. 💔💗💕

[@silkeohm7570]

this Place is so wonderfull an Akela is sooo sweet and pretty ;-)

[@Rapunzel4476]

Enjoy watching you live your life to the fullest. I know it’s something I would not be cut out for, so I’ll live vicariously through you and Akela. So deeply sorry to hear about your friend passing. You’ll both be in my prayers.

[@soloridertv]

Probably the best thumbnail for a video that I've seen . . . a relaxing camper, her dog, and a beautiful view. You are proof that there is hope for the younger generation.

[@shareenw3]

I didn’t realize you knew/knew of Lee. I follow Max & Occy and learned about Lee through Max. I also see in videos you post after this that you are going through your own struggles. So glad you are in therapy and getting the help you need. I know there are a lot of trolls out there and so glad you have a system in place to try to avoid them. YOU are also a bright light and a shining example of kindness and authenticity, and I am sure you are also loved by MANY. Keep on keeping on! Your spirit is incredible and I am truly enthralled by your sharing. MANY blessings to you and Akela as well as your family! 😊

[@campinwill9977]

The story of Lee brought tears. Let's hope that God and His Angels welcomed her home! I'm sure They did!

[@KUSHNIREDCAMPING]

Очень красивые у вас видео 😍

[@SarahShamblin]

I love that feeling when weather happens outside my cozy space 🥰

[@JB-kd5uv]

You and Akela are so incredibly beautiful. I love watching your vlogs. I also followed Lee and am just so heartbroken for her loved ones. It is just so devastating that it came to this for her. I also struggle with depression, but always find a way to smile for everyone else. I am fully in touch with my situation. But I know how easily it can slip away. She was such a beautiful human being. I hope others can find a way out of the sadness. Thank you for showing others the way. Your videos matter. 🥰

[@VanlifeJernie]

Yet another amazing video 🥰. You are an absolute hoot to watch and your editing is incredible. Akela is indeed beautiful!! Such a horrifically tragic loss in regards to Lee. Bullying and harassment are absolutely NOT acceptable in any form. Neither is violence against women. May she rest in eternal peace. Please always take time to do your own self care when necessary Linnea. You matter in this World too. 💜

[@Knitnana]

Oh my. Am literally just watching and seeing your last screen. I find any bullying untenable. I’m not sure I know who Lee was, but my heart breaks for her, her family, and her friends. Stay strong folks. There’s no way the world is better without you. ❤️

[@cindys3435]

You are a wonderful dog mom, all the walking, hiking and playing with her. She’s so lucky to have you and I’m sure you feel lucky to have her also. Your dog is beautiful and healthy looking. Good luck to you both and safe travels.

[@stephannirichards8163]

I’d almost give my right arm to be sitting there by that fire with you over looking the view and reading a book. Heaven! The colours in that region are similar to our red centre, Uluru, in Australia 🇦🇺 So sorry to hear about Lee ❤️ Take care

[@Brian-ko9qy]

LOL - loved the fashion statement at the end! Love your humor!

[@mairaaguiar594]

You are so kind and has a beautiful light

[@maryl965]

Beautiful in every way. Thank you. Thank you.

[@Hilliorm85]

I have watched so many of your videos. You have found a way to live your best life and do so in an amazing way. When I’m on my death bed I want to be able to look back and say I did things outside of the box much like you have. Keep living your best life and enjoying yourself!!

[@bluesam1785]

love your videos, you show the good, bad, and ugly. thank you

[@Pegs57]

Oh dear so sad. Thank you for sharing yours and Akelas’ journey with us

[@brandianderson287]

Love your channel. Have you seen vanwives. Great spirit such as yours. Be safe. You have the absolute Best companion and Road Dogg!!

[@martink62]

Still can't believe Lee is gone but her videos and posts will be watched a lot. She had that smile that lit up everything. I've never met Lee but her videos have helped me in the past few weeks where I have not being feeling the best or myself. Love watching your amazing adventures and them sunrises and sunsets are great for mind and soul.

[@ruthpeet2350]

I stumbled upon your videos and you have moved me with your spirit and love for life. Thank you. I am very sorry about your friend Lee. I hope she has found peace.

[@CharlesButler]

I am the same way, when my boy Rocky is all dirty, I just deal with it as well. What great view of the canyon and mountains! have fun and be safe!

[@tammystoddard4690]

I absolutely love your energy! Sending ❤ from Tennessee

[@mountaintruth1deeds533]

Oh her name is Ariel, my boyi had 15+ years was Gonzo, beautiful boy , Aussie pit and smarter than most people. Saved my life for certain. Now I should sub.

[@amandachambers8593]

I have a 1995 Chevy Sportsman sitting in my driveway next to my travel trailer. Literally I've just looked out the window at it for two weeks. I've prepped for this for over a year and have frozen out of fear. My point is after binge watching your videos you have inspired me to get off my A$$ and do what I know I am capable of doing. Thanks this was just what I needed. 🖤🖤🖤. Blessed be and Safe travels till next time!!!

[@amandachambers8593]

*Sports Van

[@ueld1799]

Love all your stuff. Special with your cup❤❤❤

[@AliceInDiamonds]

You are my hero. Thank you for inspiring me. Also Full body chills in your closing message.

[@Lt184]

Your fur baby is so cute, again thanks for sharing this video w/us all… Ok that receipt looks so yummy, we will have to give that a spin. Thanks s for sharing it as well

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@mbibi3294]

She sooo cute my German shepherd dose the same thing with her lips 😂 Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful video with us 🥰

[@aarongoodwin4845]

Sorry to hear about your friend Lee! I know the feeling! Stay you!

[@kathygrimes1499]

I hope that you have done good grieving so that you can now say hello to her without tears when you feel her around you. Know that people like me admire you and recognize your courage and adventure spirit to live life to the fullest. You encourage me to never stop living life. Thank you!

[@sherriberkley188]

Good commands, she is so precious.

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@winterfawn2341]

Thank you so much for giving lots of hugs and kisses to your baby!!! It gives me happy feelers... Especially when I am not home with my babies. 🥰🥰🥰

[@stancherry4716]

Thank you for bring us with you

[@cenedraleaheldra5275]

Exactally I hope laws are passed and called the Lee MacMillian law. Words can lift you up and Words can tear you down. Be Kind everyone every time. If you cant say something kind. Keep it to yourself.

[@hassanjacobs7506]

Censorship?

[@cenedraleaheldra5275]

@@hassanjacobs7506 just because you think it, it doesn’t need to be said. Freedom of speech is not the freedom to be cruel. It seems in this society we need to remind folks how to be polite and kind.

[@ryveralexander8511]

@@cenedraleaheldra5275 If they don't have it, they don't know how to do it!

[@nobodyyouknow7226]

Yeah see that's nice and cute in theory, but the realistic reason why something like this cannot be implemented is because it actually does violate people's Free Speech. Then literally anything be taken as offense or be accused as being of a bullying or disingenuous nature. How do you even know if someone is actually being mean or not? Especially when you have speech patterns in tones. Sarcasm, rhetorical questions, jokes, backhanded compliments, and genuine criticism are just to name a few. What about people who are on the autistic spectrum or just people who are socially awkward? What about children? Are you going to be the one governing the context of someone else's speech? Telling people what they are and are not allowed to say and have that be governed by the state? Do you really know what you're asking for here? Who gets to decide if something is offensive or not by law? What is the penalty for this? Sorry, I'd rather get my feelings hurt than to have the literal government monitor and control my basic interactions with other human beings. Any form of criticism could automatically be taken as bullying. If you criticize a company or the government that could be seen as harassment, if you say you don't like someone's haircut they can perceive that as bullying. If a movie critic gives genuine criticism for a film, that company could sue them or jail them for bullying. Criticising the government, presidents, institutions, countries, and policies could get you jailed or sued. What you are suggesting is thought control, which is a literal practice that many countries have and we criticize for using our Free Speech. The government should not be controlling what people as long as it is in a non-threatening matter to other parties. No thank you. Remember this, the same freedom that you're using at this very moment to be able to speak freely on the Internet is the very same freedom you wish to take away. The block button is real, you can log off at anytime. People have said it time and time again, social media is fake. Log off, it's good for you. Don't listen to what random strangers on the internet have to say about you as a person they don't even know. Delete those comments, delete the negativity. Remember that you have family and friends that love you, remember but the internet is catered to show us what we *want* to see. Not what is actually real, good or bad. But don't delete people's right to basic speech.

[@drivventodrumm1]

Thank you for giving us a glimpse of your life, you’re truly extraordinary

[@rosieobi9260]

While I know it was happened years ago, I read your note at the end and would like to say I'm sorry you lost your friend Lee under such circumstances. 😥

[@billym3781]

Nothing better than having a great and fun loving 🐶dog love watching you two together

[@DeeJayHouser1]

Where's the Love Button? This is one of My dog, Buddy, and I's favorite videos. Thanks again.

[@rickkozarits8930]

To sit there with such a stunning view , you are truly blessed x

[@kathrynmilesfenton2755]

I am so very sorry and saddened about the loss of your friend Lee. Mental health has come a long way in the past decade but we have so much more to do before we can say "we got this".

[@kenziesquire]

you’re living my dream life.. right down to the white dog with big ears.. im so happy i found your account🥰❤️

[@kenziesquire]

seriously i cant get over how much our dogs look alike! they even act the exact same! this makes me so excited to give her this life😭 i cant wait

[@jennyriede5372]

It’s great to have you share.

[@ewakraft5770]

I like ur honesty, enjoyed ur video a lot, thanks for sharing❣

[@marksabia3468]

Hi I have a male white shepherd..love your content and soundtracks.....live your life and don't b fearful.....take care

[@alexsamsung5579]

I've never seen a happier dog. She must love her life. You make a great partnership.

[@tikitiki7610]

not able to make my trip to the west this year, but your videos take me there. thank you

[@chrism2821]

I am loving your videos !! U are an inspiration 😊

[@stuman6258]

like the easy listening music. Your a very respectable young lady! GREAT SHOW!! Your love for your beautiful doggy is very cool to see.😊 ... Thank you for sharing.

[@tiffanyarmstead4148]

I'm so sorry for your loss love 😢

[@kevslife6097]

Thanks for making up mind. I’m taking the happy route

[@backyardbraaapn1017]

You are absolutely beautiful, and your laugh shows that you have a great soul. ❤

[@tyrone-tydavis5858]

Wow what a great dinner…. The perfect company…. perfect food...the perfect ambience. Posted the above before I read your postscript. I'm so sorry to hear about your dear friend. Take care of yourself, have fun and enjoy life.

[@meaganevoy]

What a beautiful video, such an interesting life. I always enjoy watching your videos so thank you so much for sharing. I'm so sorry about your friend.

[@stancherry4716]

Very sorry to here about your friend I know it's been awhile since but losing someone is very hard.be safe

[@adbc8737]

The life you and your furry friend are are living is inspiring… don‘t let anyone talk you out of it ! 🌀❤️🌀. Thank You!

[@jennifergross9008]

This is the 2nd of your videos I’ve watched so far and I’m so glad I found your channel. Can’t wait to watch more adventures

[@kindeyes8349]

Enjoyed your video and day, redoing my van now, but when I was out i learned that it is always good to park the nose of your van into the wind. It helps the van be stable during windy coditions, if you can. I've learned alot from your videos especially the electrical ones. Go get'em.

[@lulienne8212]

Loved watching you and Akela! I have a female White German Shepherd too. Her name is Sylvie. They are best! So smart and funny. I love how much they communicate.

[@teajonsen5329]

Now I also want to go travel and live with my dogs in a van !

[@stevenhartley7659]

I know you work hard at staying positive I want to thank You for that Also thank you for sharing the beauty that surrounds you and and highlighting the fact that it's not a normal day every day to have that around you but you carry it with you thanks again

[@LotusMorning]

So funny, and so authentic. And Akela is just as adorable

[@brendaslocum4431]

I just love watching your videos! I’ve went back and rewatched all of them. Love you both and respect your sense of adventure!

[@chriswatt6835]

Akela seems like the sweetest, happiest pup ever

[@JustARosko]

That view 🤩🤩🤩

[@ashleylaurencruz4445]

Just discovered your channel, and just really enjoyed the simplicity of your videos I’ve watched so far. I was a huge fan of Lee, her passing really hit home for me and has opened my mind to the reality of mental health and it’s importance. Thank you for sharing her message, she was loved by so many!

[@petersalesses3102]

You have kind and comfortable relationship with Akela.

[@MrLolo0023]

Awesome chill videos. Keep on doing what your doin

[@MrEmpireBuilder0000]

I'm really happy that more and more of y'all are enjoying your lives early and being on the right purpose and path in life. Humans are made to enjoy life to the fullest, not toil away in some office until you're 65.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

We work until 70 where I’m from and it’s terrifying knowing that so I think the prospects of that makes people think differently about life.

[@abbythiele1933]

I have enjoyed your videos thank you for sharing your journey

[@TVCAVEMAN213]

A couple of months ago when I first saw you, and Akela by the fire, I thought what a great picture, So I made a Screenshot, to keep for myself, Now I see that it is being used as a Cover Photo. Seems we both have good taste, and recognize simple beauty when we see it. I am just started on my own 1996 Chevy Astro Van, and should be on the road next spring. Best of good fortune to you,

[@Craigsoutdooradventures]

Fantastic, fur baby is 😍😍

[@mountaintruth1deeds533]

Fantastic, 57 year here, my 100 # pup is about a hundred pounds , they could be siblings , lots of zoomies , wish I was mobile again .

[@isnoo1]

Oh I LOVE your girl!!

[@wendyrees7942]

Ps so very sorry about your friend Lee , even though I did not know her . Please 🙏 take lots of care . Love from Manchester United Kingdom 🇬🇧

[@terib6166]

Thank you for sharing your insulated french press....it is AWESOME!!! So beats my old one....thank you thank you 😊 😊😊

[@yvonnezzzz]

Love you two. Views were beautiful thanks. And so sorry for your loss. Stay safe my you tube friend.

[@mikestammberger1233]

Great Clips and the way you are is pretty entertaining. Love t!:)

[@NancyandMako]

Wow what views just incredible!!!!