Vanlife and THIS is just what I needed to fix a 💔

Sometimes it's laughter, sometimes it's actual drugs - but in this case the best medicine for tough times is three simple things...
Support the Channel:
Patreon: / vanlifemovies
Paypal: PayPal.me/vanl...
MERCH STORE: vanlifeplus-sh...
AMAZON WISH LIST: www.amazon.ca/...
Mailbox:
Matthew Allen
Unit # 112
440, 10816 Macleod Trail S.E.
Calgary, AB Canada
T2J 5N8
DISCOUNT CODES:
VTOMAN JUMP 1000 Portable Power Station:
vtoman.com/pro...
Use my code for 10% OFF (not combined with flash-sales): VTOVLP
On Rumble: rumble.com/use...
VanlifePLUS Q.A. Back Up Channel: / @vanlifeplusq.a.2206
Contact
Instagram: @vanlifeplusmovies
Facebook: / vanlifeplusmovies
My name is Matthew and I live in a van. I lost my job due to "cut backs" from the pandemic of 2020 and decided to seriously restructure my life. I am also a single dad who needed to find a solution that would allow me to remain in my daughter's life and plan for her future. After tons of research into #vanlife, I knew it was for me.
From March 2021 until October 2021 I spent my days building out my Chevrolet Express 2500, which came to be known as "Lucky" and as of October 18, 2021 I have been living in Lucky full time.
The build was done with almost no experience on my end and I used the one incredible tool I had at my disposal - the internet - to learn what I needed to build Lucky into a very comfortable tiny home.
I have always had a bit of a passion for being in front of the camera and really enjoy capturing the world around us. This really played into how I was feeling after almost a year of working from home when I "commuted" from the bedroom to the couch. I was starting to feel extremely unhealthy, unmotivated and despondent. I HATED that, and that's not a word I like to throw around. This new lifestyle gives me opportunities I just didn't have before and I am so excited to be able to share it all with you.
I truly believe we all have the capabilities to turn our lives around, should we choose to do so - and if I can inspire you to shoot for something better then I have done a decent job and that will keep me going.
There is more to life than the consume, consume, spend, spend lifestyle I feel we have all been conditioned to follow and I just want to do the best I can for myself first and foremost. Our time is limited and I do not want to waste another second on a lifestyle that doesn't bring me joy!
Be Happy, Be Creative, Be Yourself and BE POSITIVE!

[@xenamolina8]

Oh Matt I cry when Brooklyn ask for Stella . I know you got sad when she ask for Stella . Send you and her big hug ❤😢

[@phosawelonewolf2886]

My heart broke again. It’s hard for little kids to understand what’s happening and it’s hard for us to explain. All my 💜 Cat Man.

[@connieshutts7074]

Beautiful drive as always. Kids melt our ❤❤❤. Family, friends and Penny will help mend your heart.

[@kathybest6950]

Well done, Matthew , not an easy conversation. You put your Daddy hat on and got through it.

[@gorillagoldhunters]

Love your music n style of filming Matt:) makes my morning better:)

[@KW-jr3dj]

OMG!! I sobbed again!😿😿You are the best dad! Brooklyn is lucky 🍀! 💓💕💗

[@rachadventuresinliv]

Camping, candy, family and friends good for the grieving souls. Sending lots of love your way. 🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@divinewrath3142]

Awe Brooklyn is so cool! Dora who, look at this dino puppet... Just like her Daddy. Those last few moments.. oof. You handled it perfectly

[@SavageBastardbro]

That little voice saying "where's stella" bless her and you brother

[@regbillings4955]

Did someone say Candy??? i am all in lol :) Great video as always Matthew, thanks for sharing your vanlife adventure. Have a great day sir :)

[@TheLeopardGirl]

It tugs at the heart strings, having to tell little ones someone they loved has passed away, never an easy conversation and usually more difficult for the adult than the child!🥺

[@lynh8378]

My heartstrings...sigh. Good job papa explaining. Hope the trip goes well and the fires are out. Hugs.

[@sarah_n_tank_girl]

It is so hard explaining the passing of a fur baby to a toddler. When AJ finally grasped that Matika was never coming back he slept with her cat bed so he wouldn't forget her. Ten years later I still fall apart remembering that pain on his face...a lot like the pain on your face reminding B that she's gone.🫂

[@1hoppyac1]

Omgosh look at that store I’d b in heaven lol 😂, love camping also, thanks Matt For just being you , 👍🏽🇦🇺

[@maryhammer5296]

Your little girl is so precious. It was sweet that she asked about Stella and how you answered her was so touching. Hugs to you all!

[@xraygirl47]

Oh my heavens……out of the mouths of babes! I have tears in my eyes…..kids are so curious and insightful 😢

[@LittleMo777.]

You did well in the way you told Brooklyn about Stella! Beautiful mountains you take us through. Thanks!

[@sandydouglas3799]

Aww bless your little girl's heart. That candy shop was a visual delight.

[@preparingthebridefaithoutr6884]

Hey U, ...Matthew, Brooklyn, Penny, Lindsey & Amber!👋. Such a BEAUTIFUL drive and AWESOME mountain/skyline views👍. Did someone say 🤯Candy, candy, candy ... oh & ice cream!😆😂🤭. Lunch looked YUMMY ...and I do LUV seeing those 'lil' feet walking with you!🤗. I will forever REMEMBER the BEAUTY STELLA💖🐈 ... she is greatly missed. Hope you all had a WONDERFUL time, ... take care, stay safe & God bless.😇🙏

[@taceyjohnson1122]

I love seeing my area in your videos. I drive it so much that I usually zone out and forget to enjoy the beauty. Definitely didn't expect the tears at the end. :(

[@doridahn1601]

Oh little Brooklyn and that "Where's Stella" question.. heartbreaking. Nice way you handled that. She is missing her. Now I need Candy and Ice cream. We all are still missing little Pirate Cat. 😢💖🙏Hugs to you and the crew! Time to go Camping.🚐

[@karlaolson6238]

You handled that perfectly imho

[@c.victoriaritchie3466]

Awwwww 😢❤ I just went through this with my 6 year old grandson🙏❤

[@RVingwithLuck]

My heart broke when your daughter asked where Stella was. You had a fine response. Blessings!

[@justinlucero6652]

Enjoy ur trip with everyone 👍💯

[@vallovesnature8449]

Sad to see those plumes of smoke. Finding a store that has candy, ice cream & homemade fudge is a treasure indeed. Brooklyn asking about Stella😢. It’s sometimes a little hard explaining it to a young child. God decided that after years of dedication, it was time for Stella to receive her angel wings. Hugs and love to you always Matthew ❤️

[@richardthomas1743]

That is a bit difficult when Children as a question like that. You handled it very well Matt. 👍. Thank you for taking us along.

[@carmelrickman9748]

Oh Matthew I'm in tears again watching that look cross your face when Brooklyn asked about Stella. It's heartbreaking explaining a person or a beloved pet passing away to children 💔. You handled it perfectly because your a wonderful dad. Take care young man x

[@nancykelsey1661]

I was telling my daughter about Stellas passing and she had tears in her eyes, sometimes life’s just hard. Please take care😊

[@serenalwoods]

That was heart-wrenching your baby girl asking where Stella went.😢

[@justinlucero6652]

Aw matt it hard to hear ur daughter ask Abt Stella rest her soul I know your daughter missed her. Rest in peace Stella 🐈😺

[@billboyer7735]

Thanks. I know it won’t buy happiness or mend a broken heart but it might buy some nice treats for Penny and candy for Brooklyn.

[@VanlifePLUS]

That’s very kind of you Bill, thank you very much 🙏

[@virginia_in_the_rearview]

One of the hardest things about being a parent is explaining death to a child. Continuing to pray for you all. Also, it's sad to see those wildfires. Good to see Amber and Lindsay joining you two.

[@canadiancorporal3501]

Glad to see you in better spirits Matt.. I hope that your back is feeling better.... The ending gave me one hell of a lump in my throat... All the best my friend

[@cathymc8365]

Kids are curious and you handled that big question like a champ. Seeing the mountains on fire/smoking is just heartbreaking. The devastation the fires leave behind is horrible. Hopefully they don't reach any homes or towns. Love the candy shop, looks like Sadie missed out on the goodies though!

[@katherinespong]

Out of the mouth of babes. Twisted my stomach, but Matthew, you handled it beautifully. ❤

[@Subarucamping1122]

My heart broke when Brooklyn asked where’s Stella?😢 Tears started rolling.

[@marconion]

You're an absolute legend Matthew!

[@VanlifePLUS]

I dunno about that, but thank you Marc!

[@marconion]

Your music choice and the second to none editing skills prove that to be true.@@VanlifePLUS

[@Felurian_]

I read the comments first, so I was prepared for Brooklyn's question but my goodness. I still cried. Well handled. Our babies sure know how to dig to the core of us, huh? X

[@deanabarnes2957]

Thank you penny for all the loves 😊

[@UrdnotChuckles]

Whenever I'm at a big candy store like that out of town, I always wind up leaving with a big slice of fudge. Especially if I'm in Jasper! Big oof at that question right at the end there. Hope y'all are doing well.

[@neverwares]

Hugs for you and Brooklyn ❤

[@kimbrueck7811]

That just broke my heart. We all miss Stella!❤❤❤ Hugs for you and Brooklyn and belly rubs for Penny.

[@laurastewart2418]

The title said it all...the best medicine is family, friends, and candy 🍬 😄 ❤️ take care

[@lgDukeCity5018]

Oh my, water works again. You handled it beautifully Matt.

[@endah9692]

So sweet and sad to hear her innocence asking about Stella. They grow up soo fast. 🦢

[@bonniejackson1321]

Ah Brooklyn is so precious and of course she would notice Beloved Stella's absence. Kind and honest response Matthew. May the camping trip be fun and safe for one and all.

[@karenlowes7802]

Glad to see you all visiting the candy store. A good prescription for tough times.❤

[@gionun8950]

Your music choices in this video 💯

[@TheLeopardGirl]

Everytime I see mountains my heart feels a sense of peace. Thank you for taking us there, it's very much appreciated my dear friend.🙏

[@cherylfisk7698]

Family (children), friends, and time with them is the BEST medicine to heal/mend a broken heart. There love and company/presence fills the empty hole from the loss. Enjoy and soak it ALL (Love and support) in.

[@danielellington8407]

I feel so bad that your daughter Brooklyn is so young to understand what happened. Kudos to you Matthew, it brings up those memories of her again. But it brings you and Brooklyn closer. I know it sounds not well put but I don’t know how else to put it. My wife and I are only parents to Our furbabies. Rocky our Pug and Razziles and Dazziles our tuxedo cats. So I hope I didn’t say something wrongly.

[@VanlifePLUS]

You good man! 👍

[@jackieluckyangel5610]

Big warm hugs to you & Brooklyn (& a tummy rub for Penny)🥰💞😘🍀🏴‍☠️

[@rnroutside621]

Im not crying you are 😢 it was hard telling my daughter where my grandfather went its never easy to tell kids anything about losing someone ❤

[@SherryArnold-gq1or]

Hey Matthew your little girl sounds so precious, I started crying again when you had to tell her about Stella, but y'all go have fun, take it easy on your back, stay safe,see ya on the next video, Hollern atya from West Tennessee, USA

[@pamw5687]

Thank you for sharing, 💖😻😻👩

[@jacquelineeick5986]

Kids are very resilient, end of day youre the one who hurts most! Adults have the memories. Bless Brooklyn all the same as she notices Stella not being there on trips with dad.. love to you both ❤❤😹😻

[@VanmaRuth]

Hey Matthew. Much love and hugs

[@christinanavarre8389]

Good Evening Matthew, Brooklyn and dear sweet Penny 🐾🐈holding down the fort. Nice ride, glad you have a break from your pain. Great Daddy you are, with a question you knew was coming. In my thoughts hun. Be Safe, Be Healthy as you can and Always find Joy in your day ❣️

[@margannaful]

Those mountains make my heart smile. Thank you for sharing your beautiful world with us!

[@abeach5420]

😍😭😢 Ohhhh your sweetie pie Miss Brooklyn......my hearrrrt omg. Miss Penelope WILLL have her way to no doubt push aside and fling the all so many sticky on the dash thingies in her way....that Jeep was ready to take a deep fall to floor. Hugz to you...beautifully shared edit Matthew (allll the feelz). p.s. SIX.....count them six seals --2 babies swam with us today...omg the orca and seals are freakin everywhere.

[@mariaconley409]

Matthew you handled it very very well with your little girl❤ about Stella

[@aussiejac]

😢😢😢😢🐈‍⬛. So well said and handled

[@sheilacaine]

Awe Brooklyn asking about Stella 😢😢😢. The food looked yummy and beautiful land but, 😢 Stella is so missed. ❤

[@helene1779]

Beautiful scenic drive Matt! The end was heartbreaking, much love and respect.🐈‍⬛❤️🙏🏼👍🏼👍🏼✌🏼❤️🐈❤️

[@MelissaThompson432]

You said, "let's go camping!" And I went, "YES!" and immediately realized I've gotten dependent on these vicarious camping trips. Also, you have excellent music selections.

[@preparingthebridefaithoutr6884]

For sure, Melissa 👍🤗 ...I do LUV the road trips & camping also!

[@JustCameronAndHisJeep]

same... Thanks Matthew for bringing us along.

[@KimHenderson-NC]

Made me cry when Brooklyn asked where Stella was.

[@margaret4870]

Beautiful video sweetheart. The innocence of a child. Hugs to you, Brooklyn, Amber, Lindsey and sweet Penny ❤

[@valeriehancotte-galan4790]

Glad that you are doing better. ☺️🙏🇺🇸. Hugs from humid Nashville

[@JackieWM420]

Stella went over the rainbow bridge doll 😢

[@Katiedid1975]

Take care out there, and have fun, gosh darn it.😊❤ Tough job explaining to our little ones about death. You handled it well.

[@VaguelyMeandering]

You were in my neighbourhood! Thankfully the Sparwood fires are (almost) all out. Brooklyn asking about Stella was devastating, and you handled it brilliantly. You're a great dad!

[@aarondenney340]

Not gonna lie. When Brooklyn asked where Stella was I cried a little.

[@tsteeves]

Matt, our paths are going to cross one of these days lol my wife did that same drive on Aug 6th on our way to Portland to get the hightop put on .

[@Jean8321]

That piano music is my jive. So lovely, thanks.

[@debbief2882]

Pancake and Maple syrop Jelly Belly! Now why can I picture you eating that for breakfast, Matthew? 🤔 You were so sweet answering Brooklyn's question. 🧡

[@AnnetteChiniquy]

Heart warming and sentimental journey! I haven't been in a candy store for a while now, my inner kid wanted to pick a variety from the bins! Then your tiny handed, sweet voiced, adorable daughter ate her ice cream with protective loving Dad and friends. The nachos looked divine! My deepest condolences for the loss of the older kitty, big hugs. ❤❤❤

[@avenseth7496]

Amber to the rescue - hope you are doing okay Matt

[@reneerix3607]

Always love ❤️ seeing Brooklyn Your so klassy ,beautiful show ty

[@Pammellam]

What amazing scenery and the weather is perfect! Canada is indeed magnificent! The group coloring was fun! Matthew, that last question from Brooklyn really tugs at our hearts. I will never forget our little sweetheart, Stella! And I know you won’t either.

[@GypsyJvan]

thanks..

[@ShinyNickelBlades]

Awe! "Where's Stella?" 😭

[@Shel731]

So 😢❤ sweet ❤️

[@Temarama7]

A nice Shiatsu Seat Massage as you travel would do wonders to prevent sciatica or keep it down some what. Brooklyn is looking for Stella what a Heart she be💙

[@douglashoward5738]

Safe travels 😊

[@trevdevadventures]

Awesome thanks for sharing. 🔥🆙

[@wendyrobertson-c6m]

Whoa boy my heart broke once again when Brooklyn asked about Stells. I'm so glad you didn't sugar coat it but were honest about it. Its easier for the kids to understand when we're straight forward with our answers. 😮Those fires seem like they'll never end this summer. The dry season there must be pretty dry if yall are having that many fires. Something g to the tune of 1600 nationwide, yikes! Happy trails and safe travels to you.

[@nappigal]

The eyeball sticker would look awesome on the back windows.

[@Shel731]

❤ sweet ❤️

[@yme4071]

Your music choices make the scenery even more majestic. Very well done as always. Feeling sad for you and happy at the same time. You're doing your best and I just want you to know that even with the heartache as well as the backache, you still shine every time Much love to you and your wonderful family and friends❤

[@blairinhemet]

is Penny telling Brooklyn "you're in my seat!!"?

[@jefftaylor844]

So sad and yet so well explained by Dad. Re: that candy store ... AWESOME !

[@dean4558]

Hope everyone had a great weekend, cheers from Ontario 🙂🍻🍻

[@VanlifePLUS]

Cheers Dean

[@MelissaThompson432]

Kids actually do get it, as long as you don't give them more information than they want. They might keep asking questions, because they don't especially want the answers you give them, but they're like that about everything in life. 🤷 As one of my favorite parenting KZbinrs says, "they're just learning how to human." They just need patience, respect, and honesty (well, they need other things in other circumstances, but with regard to addressing difficult questions, those will do.) It's obvious Brooklyn is getting all three.

[@michaelhorvath757]

Thanks!

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you very much Michael - I hope you’re well!

[@MsSoozy]

Awww it was bound to happen, you did very well ❤ BC is burning, very sad and scary. Be safe out there. It’s nice when you travel through Nanton, I have a friend that lives there and works in Calgary at Metro. 😊

[@kathywrightjohnson6804]

Hi Penny, Brooklyn and Matthew. Curly Sue and I are sending well wishes.

[@limills2598]

Awww your daughter is very precious...bless her little heart...safe travels Matthew

[@darcyallen3912]

Great video. The Rum Runner is always fun. Loved the coloring together!

[@christinamann3640]

That drive is beautiful, everything looks decently green and not too dry. Still those fires though 😥

[@rajanikumari3672]

Have a great trip. 🏕🏞