Abandoned Cabin in the Woods & Life Update

Подписаться 289 тыс.

Просмотров 246 тыс.

50% 1

Part two…exploring an off grid property belonging to my family that has been mostly abandoned for the past decade. And a life update :) Thanks for being here ♡
Part 1: • i feel stuck.
Links to ALL my favorite photography, road life & camping essentials 🛒 I get a small kickback when you purchase using these links, thanks for your support :) christianschaf...
Love these videos and want to support my travels with a tip? ♡ paypal.me/Chri...
Business Inquiries: info(at)christianschaffer.art
Website: christianschaf...
Instagram: / christianschaffer
X (Twitter): / christianschafr
Facebook: / christianschaffer.art
Music is from MUSICBED 🎶 Elevate your videos with record-label quality songs: fm.pxf.io/c/30...
I’m Christian Schaffer, and I’ve lived on the road full-time since May 2018. This journey began in 2013 when I left the corporate world to build my career as an outdoor adventure & travel photographer. After 14 months of SUV living - I bought the van I now call home. Van life enables me to experience and document the beauty of our natural world, while also having my home and office nearby. My hope is that by sharing my own personal highs and lows along this (sometimes) wild journey, you might be inspired to hit the road or spend more time outdoors. Maybe one day I'll see you out on that open road 🚐
*My van is a 2019 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof, 136" WB with 61K miles*
#vanlife #solofemale #offgrid
MB01SDAQKFKHWJR

Опубликовано:

24 сен 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 1,3 тыс.

@97OctaneHockey 9 месяцев назад

Seriously how has Hollywood not scooped you up? You provide enchanted, magical, content. You are so talented and amazing and no matter where the road takes you, you will always have an audience.

@geoffreywalker7308 9 месяцев назад

She’s too good for Hollywood, in my opinion

@Buckaroo801 9 месяцев назад

She doesn’t need Hollywood…she’s got RU-vid. ;)

@Jasper_4444 9 месяцев назад

She's far more real than any Hollywood stuff.

@dokktekk 9 месяцев назад

Hollywood is a cesspool.

@thomassanio8745 9 месяцев назад

She is real, thank God Hollyweird has not scooped her up. Merry Christmas 🎄

@FamiliarAnomaly 9 месяцев назад

The roots matter most when there's a storm

@marasievers 9 месяцев назад

Hey Christian! Let me briefly share my experience, because I’ve been in a similar situation. I was really tired living in my van. Not tired of it, mind you, just tired of having to do all the things you listed so accurately by myself. I was craving stability and not to have to look at Google maps for a while! My partner and I were able to buy a home in the White Mountains of NH, a place I love. But turns out, I had the hardest time adjusting to being in one place. I know that I needed it when we looked for the home and bought it. And I’m still very grateful to have all my stuff in one place. But I terribly miss traveling. So I ordered a truck camper. Same as you, I want to be able to be more remote and off road and even though I had a AWD Ford Transit van the clearance and tires just weren’t enough for what I dream about. Now, I’m lucky to be able to do both: travel when I get fernweh and go home when I have enough. I’ve been thinking how it would be cool for you to purchase a home with nomadic friends and share it. But I know there’s a lot that can go wrong with that setup. I applaud you for being smart and not as impulsive as me. The 2-month house sit sounds perfect to give you time to reflect and notice how you feel. Merry Christmas!

@EricDolecki 9 месяцев назад

I love the White Mountains. Congratulations. I’ll be there this spring - wonderful hiking and pleasant people.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing your perspective! I think a mix of traveling/home base would be such a nice balance. The White Mountains are so beautiful, too ☺️

@christinejolivette7886 9 месяцев назад

How did you find the house sit,please?

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I use Trusted Houses sitters 🙌🏻

@Weathernerd27 8 месяцев назад

I live in a Van during the workeek and live in a country condo on the weekend. I think its the best of both worlds I have the flexibility to work anywhere in the Seattle Metro area but I get a break from the Van on weekends and feel some stability/community. I didn't have a choice I make 90k a year but Seattle house prices are so outrageous that I couldn't afford any house within 1 hours commute of my job.

@Humbledoor 9 месяцев назад

You will not find what you're looking for, it will find you! Safe travels and happy holidays 😀

@2vintage68 9 месяцев назад

Great advice.

@MR-backup 9 месяцев назад

You can't keep your cake and eat it too.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I love that ☺️🙏🏻

@Humbledoor 9 месяцев назад

I thought I knew what I wanted out of life, only to find some thing/someone completely different to expectation. I am in awe as to what life throws up at the most unexpected time ! Cake and eat it......dam right!@@ChristianSchaffer

@Steger13 4 месяца назад

Nope, you attract what you think of so it can't ever find you if you don't think and imagine it in the first place.

@pyb.5672 9 месяцев назад

After traveling solo around the world for a year, I came back expressly for the same reasons: a need for stability and socializing. It's been 6 months now and I need adventure again. Moral of the story is that we work on a system of craving and reward, and embracing it gives us the balance between order and disorder. Keep up the great videos Christian.

@sharrymullin4924 9 месяцев назад

Whew, Christian! This one was packed full - full of all of the things that make life life. Dreams, possibilities, indecisions, beloved ancestors, family history, personal exploration... The good news is that there are no mistakes, just choosing one option over another. I really love that you allow us to follow along on your life journey. Thank you.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

It’s been an eventful couple of months! Thanks for being here ☺️

@dougosgood 9 месяцев назад

Well said Sharry! Thank you Christian for letting us into your life.

@DarrellStock 9 месяцев назад

You are a fabulous storyteller! Your adventures are intriguing and captivating. I have been to many of the places you mentioned: Yosemite, CanyonLands and Big Sur. Big Sur was rather interesting since I was hitching way, way back then when I was 18. Carefree and anxious to do something on my own. From there, went to meet my grandmother in Las Vegas for the first time. She had lived there for many years and she was so surprised to meet me. Shocked to hear the knock on her mobile home door at 6:30AM. I’ll never forget those 3 days I spent with her talking about her son (my Dad) and playing cribbage. She was so beautiful with her blond hair and easy communication. In the end, she drove me to the outskirts of town in her cherished pick up truck and dropped me so I could resume my hitchhiking journey back to Connecticut. I was going to be a sophomore in college. And to circle back to Big Sur, I went back after all these years about 5 years ago remembering the places I had stopped when I was 18. Each look out was so beautiful. I love the sea. I look forward to hearing more about your travels. Darrell

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

That is such a cool story 🥲 I sometimes wish hitchhiking was still a thing. I’ve done it a few times but I don’t think I’d try it anymore unless I really had to

@DeborahLong7777 9 месяцев назад

A magical tour. How awesome to go back and see what was begun. Grandpa was a good influence in your life. At 70, moving to Texas from Maine, I have really been thinking of the time and treasures, that mean more to me today than then. Life flew. Keep spreading your wings and fly ❤

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

❤️❤️❤️

@MooreDoing 9 месяцев назад

I'm so grateful you share the evolution of not only your life but your thoughts. I can relate on chasing that itch you can't quite satisfy because at the end of the day, the most ideal situation is the opportunity to do it all as your desires naturally evolve in one long cyclical pattern. I want to live in the mountains but I need my family accessible. I want NO ONE around (70%) until I want someone around. (30%). I want to thru hike, work in my wood shop, build an off-grid home and practice permaculture, get better at the mandolin, read by the fire, swim in an ice cold lake, travel over seas and live out of a backpack, etc. It's tough because all things worth doing require time, focus, and money. I hope you find your "cake" and get to "eat it" too. Good luck on your journey and I'm cheering you on! ♥💪🏼🤘🏻

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Exactly! So many beautiful possibilities 🥲

@TomInGulfBreeze 9 месяцев назад

I feel like you could go grocery shopping at a Walmart in Cleveland, and somehow come up with beautiful footage, interesting topics, and a great story to tell. Hope you continue to produce some content no matter what direction you decide to go.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Haha 😂 That would be a fun challenge!

@davidadamsmusic 9 месяцев назад

There is a deep contentment and sadness in all of us. Every day is a journey where we feel the full effects of each and positively influence our inner thoughts as best we can. We wrap ourselves in nature, music, family, friends and most importantly- ourselves. Thank you for showcasing all of this in your stories.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Love this 🙏🏻

@emiliogonzalez8543 9 месяцев назад

Good lord Christian… what vision you have. You can tell a story through your camera like no one else. Such a joy to travel with you… I’m still working on the BBC on your behalf. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas, wherever you are this weekend…

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

🥲🙏🏻

@Ray96744 9 месяцев назад

You are an amazing storyteller

@LloydFassett 9 месяцев назад

Do you create a script or storyboard ? What % of time is in prep work and what % is in filming?

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thank you 🥲🙏🏻

@trevoreisenman6551 7 месяцев назад

And that, my friends, is what you call a beautiful soul.

@ExploreThe50 9 месяцев назад

You are an amazing storyteller and truly gifted videographer. I wish you luck in your search for what is next. If I may make a suggestion: you should consider retrieving an item from your grandfather’s property before it is sold. It can be as simple as an old board to mount a photo on or an item that is on one of the structures. When you find your next home, it will bring back your memories from your time there. Enjoy the journey!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I have a few of his hunting knifes, hatchet, and a rifle. And his wallet, which still smells like him even after all these years. I just wish I had gotten one of his flannels, more than anything 🥲 I would have probably worn it out by now, but still..

@timeriderx 3 месяца назад

@@ChristianSchaffer 🥰🥰🥰🥲

@christina6532 Месяц назад

What a beautiful story of your grand dad.

@MatthewRivers-Davis 9 месяцев назад

Thanks, Christian, for showing some of your roots and heritage - nice to see you talking happily about your grandpa - pleased you're not crying at rainbows today. That cabin looks a great project tailor-made for you to renovate. 😁🙂🙂

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

those were happy rainbow tears 😉

@MetricMod 8 месяцев назад

I feel the same way. My family is all on the Great Lakes. On the Grand River Reserve and in the Niagara Region of Ontario, but after living in Cali for 13 years and now on Vancouver Island for the 7 years I can’t see myself relocating there. I go for visits and it only reconfirms me not moving back home. We go where we feel alive. Not always “comfortable”, but alive. This is the key for me. Another great video. Thanks for being real.😊🙌🏾

@TheFeelButton 9 месяцев назад

Sounds like living in one place would answer far more questions than continuing on the road will. The road is always out there. Cheers Christian!

@UnrealGecko 8 месяцев назад

Sorry for your loss, he sounds like a wonderful man and an inspiration. 😥 The shorter days and longer nights drive me crazy. This year has been the worst to date... Good luck with the 2 months! 🤞Your feelings of doubt subside!

@ChristianSchaffer 8 месяцев назад

Brighter days coming 🙏🏻

@user-dr2js7bv2i 9 месяцев назад

It was good that you checked out the cabins in the Ozarks. Now you move on. Are you also pet sitting at the house? Pics? It seems you take after your grandfather as far as being adventurous goes. Good for you. Being in the great outdoors is good for the soul. Blessings to you Christian!❤

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Yep! Pet sitting :) Going on a few adventures with him, too! 🐶

@SolsticeOnAnOdyssey 9 месяцев назад

This is exactly why I started watching you regularly because I so relate to how much my mind spins and spins out possibilities and has a hard time landing on a plan that will meet my goals which at this time is also wanting that stability consistency routine and community. I had a figured out a screaming deal to fly non stop from LAX to Kauai for $250 and rent a subaru outback that I could sleep in the back of with a local car rental company for only $350 for the week. And I tried to get three different girlfriends to come with me and in the end I balied on the whole trip because I really didn't want to go alone this time. I lived alone on the Big Island for a year and I just can't bring myself to do it again. And I believe I hit upon an opportunity to have community and stability and income stability as well.

@marektomczyk1554 9 месяцев назад

“Grasshopper was tired. He lay down in a soft place. He knew that in the morning the road would still be there, taking him on and on to wherever he wanted to go.” ― Arnold Lobel, Grasshopper on the Road. Love your work ❤ and your videos...they are awesome ❤. Greetings from Poland 🇵🇱🙌🏻🙏🏻.

@islesanctum833 9 месяцев назад

Beautiful comment We are all grasshoppers somewhere along the way ❤️

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thank you 🥲🙏🏻

@ideapage 9 месяцев назад

You were so lucky to have your grandparents to help raise you.

@terencegunter4531 9 месяцев назад

Incredibly beautiful story. Hope you make that stunning property into what it was meant to be.

@ashevillegeorge3316 9 месяцев назад

Another excellent video, thanks for sharing. I also love the Ozarks, as I went to HS and college in SW MO, got married down on Tablerock Lake, honeymooned in Eureka Springs, and later lived near Jonesboro in Blytheville. It is certainly less expensive than the west coast. I think you made the right decision staying out west for now, and continuing living your current lifestyle. We did really love the area N of Jonesboro near Hardy, but can't imagine living the rest of my life there. Finally, 64 acres is worth much more that $200K, even in the Ozarks.

@curtispavlovec 8 месяцев назад

Yeah I was going to say…64 acres for 200k is crazy cheap.

@mallorys_world 9 месяцев назад

Hey, Christian! I'm also a roadie with a van (also a promaster) and, like you, I really wanted a way to get farther off-road than where my van could go. So I wound up buying a Suzuki Samurai and I tow it behind me. It's been awesome and it's really helped me get into places that my van could never get close to. (I basically overland with it and leave the van somewhere safe. I just got done spending a few months in the Siskiyous and the little Samurai easily got me to the tops of the mountains.) The Samurais are pretty cheap to buy and are easy / cheap to work on and very reliable. And since they're so light, you barely feel them when flat towing. I thought I'd mention the option since I belong to a women's FB van group and a lot of them didn't know they could tow a little 4x4 behind them. Love your work and good luck!

@jeffmcdonald101 9 месяцев назад

I was going to suggest this. It's adds some complications and ongoing expense in extra fuel towing... but for a minimal outlay, it could be worth a try.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

That’s a cool idea! Thanks for sharing

@mallorys_world 9 месяцев назад

@@ChristianSchaffer If you ever do consider it, I have a specific parts / cost list for a Promaster / Samurai combo that I could put up on Google Docs or the like. Roughly speaking, it was ~$3500 for the towing equipment + whatever the little Samurai costs, which is widely variable depending on condition / options. (Towing packages can be significantly cheaper depending on requirements). I hope it could work for you and thx again for your amazing content!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Woah cool, I’ll keep that in mind! Thank you 🥲🙏🏻

@uncannyshots 9 месяцев назад

Stability is nice for a while, but when you have a nomad's heart the truth is outdoors and wandering. I wish you the best in your journey to finding your way. In the meantime, enjoying Washington is always there for you.

@dakaelo 9 месяцев назад

These are the kinds of moments where it seems, out of nowhere, the right person comes into your life and it changes everything. Your decisions will seem simpler after that. Good luck Christian. :)

@MR-backup 9 месяцев назад

My guess is she will reject him, out of fear for having to make the sacrifice.

@randyholloway920 9 месяцев назад

@MR wow, that was a really horrible comment. Especially given the subject matter; the old trope that women aren’t happy u less they find a man. Ugh. 😑

@MR-backup 9 месяцев назад

@randyholloway920 wow, that was a really horrible comment. - LOL, it's okay little girl. My big bahd ol wods will stop hurting once you let the grown ups talk. Especially given the subject matter; - You mean the subject matter the OP brought about about a partner with a HETERO protagonist, that you totally missed? You mean that subject matter?? LOL the old trope that women aren’t happy u less they find a man. - Listen, you are clearly fighting your own "demons" and just trying to fight it out with me; clearly what I said struck a nerve with you, not me. I know what I said, and what I didn't. You on the other hand, need to go to local big box store and purchase lots and lots of mirrors, because you need some serious reflecting to do. Ugh. 😑 - In case you weren't aware summer child, there is a thing called a search bar, where you can type the words Child Content in it, and you'll get all the disney and fairy tale videos (that don't expose you to any intellectual adult content) to your hearts content, kay. :)

@BoxerBoukie 9 месяцев назад

Hey I’m 71 years old and I’m new to your channel. I loved this video. You are truly an amazing woman. My bucket list is your next video. May you granddaddy rest in peace. Love ya. Bye ❤❤

@hkprovideovault9354 9 месяцев назад

Always a pleasure when a new video from my favorite "roadie" pops up in the feed. Be safe and blessed this Christmas, Christian, and the best for you in 2024 and beyond! ❤

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Happy holidays! ☺️

@Carine1962 9 месяцев назад

So great to watch you live your life. You are your own greatest stability. Go with your own flow .

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

❤️

@mariepaterik1980 9 месяцев назад

It was SO GREAT to see you back and filming-- sharing you heritage and family background. I personally believe you've made the right decision and you sound so much happier right now.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

🤍

@godwinaustenn 8 месяцев назад

I really liked how direct and open you were in the second part of the video.

@robertupchurch8088 9 месяцев назад

Merry Christmas. Your ties to your grandfather’s cabins really struck home with me. I’m from Missouri and love the Ozark areas of Missouri and Arkansas and visit regularly. After my father retired from MU my patents moved back to his home place, a farm in the rolling hills of north Mississippi just south of Oxford, it’s been in the family since the 1840s. It been a large part of my entire life. My sister and I kept it after my parents passed. I’m there now. It includes a 100 year old farm house where my Grandparents lived that is filled with childhood memories. I have been struggling with rehabbing the old house. It’s in good shape but needs a lot of work. Finding contractors you can trust is difficult. What you faced with the remote cabins makes my issues look trivial. As tough as it was I believe you made the right decision on the cabins. You’ll find your right path.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Wow, that’s pretty neat. Love that you were able to keep it!

@GarryStafford 3 месяца назад

Very transparent and honest Christian. Thanks for sharing.

@danrt52 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for showing us a little bit of your family history. Love that piece of property. Your wagon train of thoughts is healthy, and I think you are right, it's the end of the year maybe we all in some way take count of where we are and where are we going. I hope you realize that with all the options you were ticking off the fact that you can do any of then sets you free. Merry Christmas Christian, enjoy the holidays.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Happy holidays, Dan ☺️🎄

@MarkTrbojevic 9 месяцев назад

You need a home base in the PNW and a 4x4 truck camper that you would be comfortable living in for 2-3 weeks at a time. I'm a UK/US dual citizen and I've been living in Beaverton/Hillsboro, OR, for 25 years. The majesty and beauty of the area never gets old! I ride a motorcycle around the Western States when I can, but I stick to the paved roads. I never tire of the experiences, and I get to see even more of the area by watching your videos. Thanks for creating them.

@Jasper_4444 9 месяцев назад

Honestly one of my favourite Christian Schaffer videos. ❤

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

🥲🙏🏻

@sanjuancapo2862 8 месяцев назад

Wow...About 10:00 minutes into this video, I am already feeling the same way. I live out West in CA; I have family in WI, and my Dad's family are from down South. We have land and I often dream of setting up an RV property, barndominium or tiny home down South. I love my CA beach community, but it is so much more expensive here. Thanks for the nostalgia. 😊

@RefaelRefaelRefael 9 месяцев назад

The tradition in Christian's videos It's like first and then watch.. Part 2 arrived faster than we expected, thanks!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

😉🙌🏻

@daviddarlingauthor 9 месяцев назад

For myself, that would be a no-brainer. The memories, heritage, and carrying on where my grandfather left off would be the golden ticket. Zero hesitation.

@kristinvaccaro8385 9 месяцев назад

I’ve watched your channel for a few years now and inspired by your photography and storytelling 😊. I’m sure you have been asked this or considered it already but- have you ever considered thousand trails membership? We are full time in an rv hopping state parks and it was hectic moving so often and once we joined it’s been the stability we’ve needed, and a home base to leave stuff behind to explore trails. Hot water, laundry, bath houses, most are away from cities. Even ways to build community since it’s almost all full timers. They have a bunch all around the perimeter of the USA. You can do the $600 per year membership to try it for a year. That’s the one where you can do 2 weeks in 2 weeks out. Finance for $50 per month and at least you could have a good place to stop between boon docking (weeks which got to us after a year almost only boon-docking). We joined the lifetime one for 11k I think and it’s 3 weeks park to park. We can move as much as we want to. Now we boon dock only when we feel like it. It’s easy to get last minute reservations except fl. It may not be as ascetic to stay in since lots of people stay there but they have one in Yosemite 5 min away from the entrance. That alone might be worth the try. It sure takes the logistics to an easier level. You could even get an rv / tow a 4x4. Just in case you didn’t know, there is a nice middle option between a house and feeling so unstable.

@Bolthole_Studios 9 месяцев назад

Ah it would have been hard to walk away from gramp’s land but I think you made the right decision. Lots of leanings yet smart flesh them out first. Similar place in that I want more community and someone to chase the wind with & build out a property together. I’m building out a rig now and have about three years remaining on my workshop lease, so planning on taking trips to potential areas at the less comfortable times of the year for a reality check. Love Bend, plus my niece & nephew live there, but prices have jumped in recent years. You seem like a Bend girl. Looking forward to what you figure out, your gut seems to be a solid advisor. Andrew

@webbgreatone8403 6 месяцев назад

I am very much considering getting rid of my rental and just getting a van just like you. I am a subcontractor and a skilled carpenter so I’m gonna probably do all the work myself and modify it. You are awesome.

@mallermedia 9 месяцев назад

blessings for another year of adventure, discovery, companionship and hopefully health insurance 🖤

@metube1590 9 месяцев назад

Christian… you’re really something else. Thank you for sharing your journey.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for being here 🙏🏻

@Martyecho 8 месяцев назад

Christian! I told my mom to watch your videos of the natural views she's 92 years old and this brought her smile to the best I have seen in many years . Thank you !

@Stillness-Now 9 месяцев назад

Becoming attached to ideas and accepting realities that resonate more with us is a struggle for us all. I admire your increasing skill to follow your intuition.

@ItchyBurrito 9 месяцев назад

CS youre amazing, you have had some great experiences, some tough losses and still see the beauty in life and living. It's so rare to see a woman with such beauty and an equally beautiful sole. I enjoy your content and whether you keep vaning or settle into your roots on a new adventure just please keep taking us along with you.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I’m grateful to have the chance to share. There’s so much beauty in the world, I think everyone deserves to see it

@Mr66Benz 8 месяцев назад

I cried watching this. I'm seeking this type of place, but the "dream" of your Grandfather was the reason for my emotion. Good luck.

@VisualSOLUTIONSMedia 9 месяцев назад

Your connection to your grandfather is very touching, Christian, it's a shame he didn't live longer. Here I was ready to camp and volunteer 7-10 days to work on the cabins and land, but you're moving on... The decision/indecision decision; a conundrum. Thanks for being there. On YT! ;^)

@lifeismeaningful6561 8 месяцев назад

True love towards nature, journey into the wilderness, self-exploration..These are what you remind us.

@zickiea172 9 месяцев назад

I LOVE this! This is so full of life, love, loss, opportunity ... mostly life and love. You tell this so well.

@patjones722 9 месяцев назад

Good plan! I only lasted a couple months living in Arkansas. But i love to visit there. Love you!

@OffGridBackcountryAdventures 9 месяцев назад

I agree Christian, Missouri definitely has a draw to it. I grew up in SW Kansas and we spent my entire childhood camping around the Ozarks. Always loved visiting the different springs along Highway 60 and the historic mills still standing are so cool to check out. Hope you have a great Christmas!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I feel like that place is full of hidden gems - I’d love to go back and really explore. But definitely with a 4x4 🤓

@markcluff7307 9 месяцев назад

I think I would have liked being around your Grandpa. What ever you choose will work because you are a go getter self-motivated let's do it kind of person. So I don't think it matters what you choose. Just do it! 😎👍 Like you seem to always do. Glad your time not sending us videos was time spent with family. Was wondering. Love the update! 🎉 By the time you get this it'll probably be happy new year!🎉 Happy holidays! 🙏🎃🦃🎆🪔🎄 Overseas might be nice, but America needs more people like you...

@jimmiller4951 9 месяцев назад

Hello Christian, The best part of this video was when you said " you can probably expect more videos ". I personally enjoy listening to complex people like myself . Peace beautiful Woman and stay safe .

@TruckHouseLife 9 месяцев назад

You'll know for sure once you find it🖤

@HifromAshley 4 месяца назад

Fellow full timer, 4x4 - I can whole heartedly say you are correct. Getting a truck and camper would be trading one set of problems for another. And, to be honest much more expensive problems and things to think about like your suspension and tires, self recovery etc. however, the places you can reach with 4 wheel drive … worth it and sometimes the drive is the most exciting part. Best wishes xo

@JesseDryden 8 месяцев назад

Found this video by serendipity and it struck a chord with me. Coincidentally I am travelling, (just returned from Australia) and seeking ‘home’. I completely relate to independence yet wishing there was someone with whom I could create shared memories. I wish you safe journey and thanks for the inspiration.

@clayhawkinslive 8 месяцев назад

I have lived both sides. Did the van thing for years, now I have six acres I've been homesteading in Northern CA. I love how the whole world becomes your home when you're living in a van. I got lucky and found a beautiful spot of raw land that I somehow could afford. It's been so hard in many ways, but I own it now and I've finally built it up to something pretty cool. Building with shipping containers. I like your goals. Stay debt free! You have that figured out and that's huge. Good things take time to happen, so as long as you can be patient with the process and know that whatever path you choose will have it advantages and disadvantages, then you know you can't make a wrong decision. It will happen naturally. Best of luck. Great channel. Holler if you're ever in Norcal!

@Ryan90whitlow 9 месяцев назад

Those lil cabins look like a lil gold mine. My grandpa also has a cabin he built and left for my Aunt and Uncles. I thought it was so cool I started to build them myself I would love to find a lady like yourself that would be interested in doing it with me here in Colorado.

@designerscorner 9 месяцев назад

I love your videos. My wife and I bought 5 acres in the mountains of New Mexico and planned on building on it once we retired but she passed from MS a year and a half ago and our dream kinda died with her...we moved to NM from Texas 20 years ago and really loved it here...but now I think I need to downsize to a tiny house in Texas near where she and my family are buried. I love your energy and I look forward to everyone of your videos...your such an artist. No matter where your travels lead you please share them with us.

@mchunley 9 месяцев назад

I totally get you. I see now why I find you so interesting in so many ways. Like you I have spent a lot of time with my grandparents in East Tennessee growing up. I served in the Army in Berlin and then moved away. Years later, after my grandmother passed away, I had the opportunity to buy the farm at market price from family. The issue I have is I love to travel and backpack. Some family questioned if I could stay in one place. Well, I did buy it while working in NY. It ended being a great decision.

@Mindfulmaven7 2 месяца назад

So much life gone silent. Thanks for sharing.

@reesebender6756 4 месяца назад

Fascinating insights into your world and thought process. I envy your having the luxury of deciding exactly what you want to do, where and when. Most people don't have that luxury for a variety of reasons. You are a beautiful soul. I enjoy all of your videos so keep them coming.

@thespurtrail8644 9 месяцев назад

"...I think I had just really become attached to the idea of kinda picking up where my grandpa had left off..." Same path. A farm lies in my parent's hands where they still live, across a small yard from where my grandpa built his house. It is full of sheds that I would like to see fixed up, and I dream of bringing it back to some sort of working glory one day. Not even as remote as your idea, it is still time-consuming and expensive. Was really excited to see what you were going to do and looking forward to more adventures moving forward. Happy Holidays!

@rickchollett 9 месяцев назад

Five years ago I booked an airBnB for a month in a small town in Croatia. Until then I had never heard of this town. While there I walked everywhere and got in better shape. The owners lived downstairs and he (husband) was a retired cook from the Yugoslav navy. So I suffered the torture almost daily of amazing smells wafting up to my apartment. I did get invited a few times and it was wonderful. After my month there I went to Split for three days and then on to Rome for a week. After Rome I visited friends near Marseilles, France and went on to walk the Way of Saint James. Once that was finished I had to decide what to do. I went to southern Spain for a few days and then found my way home to Texas. This Spring I'm going back to Spain to walk a different route and then will most likely make my way back to Croatia. I loved meeting new people and learning about their lives and how different theirs are from ours. As for the land in Arkansas, I would love to own that! SOOO much potential!

@nathaliebasile6168 9 месяцев назад

Hi Christian. I never acted upon my eternal desire to measure myself swallowed by landscapes, and enjoying the vibrancy of being one with them. I have frantically instead consumed video of van-lifers like yourself. You are by far the most artistic I have came across. I share with you this restless feeling that more is out there but not in here. Til I one year ago, I lost my husband, the love of my life. I have been forced to deal with my pain. A pain so strong that it denies access to the future. Come to realize that immobility is not death. But perhaps the new adventures lay in the small almost imperceptible that vibes around me wherever I am. I realized that what I have been trying to numb personally is the inability to find a place in my heart where mom and dad exist. It is sad to say and extremely liberating : I have to grieve that concept of what I thought I should have had, a mom and a dad capable of loving. I hope that makes sense. Loosing the love of my life, We have only known each other for five years, was in my situation a catalyst. The why question can only be answers through actions, and commitments. I saw my cycles as spirales . Where is being home for me is not has daunting if that make sense. I can’t think like that anymore. It feels like free falling and letting go of the desire for attachments… Happy Holidays That is all I have got ❤

@crobinsmusic 8 месяцев назад

Being 90 days from moving into my bus, this was a great video to watch. Thank you for sharing. As someone with 26 previous addresses in the last 43 years it has been amazing to been in the same apartment for the last 5 years but at some point I realized this was possible because of the adventures that were completely changing my life, making some long overdue personal changes, and getting the youngest child launched. Follow your heart and know that your answer can change and that is ok. With or without a stick & bricks home I will always be a nomad.

@wildfirevixen 8 месяцев назад

As a fellow nomad - I get all of this so deeply and personally. Keep following your heart.

@b.e.n.j.a.m.i.n_ 9 месяцев назад

Just a girl trying to figure it out. The adventure of a lifetime. God bless you in your endeavors.

@andrewr62 8 месяцев назад

You have the courage and drive to experience something many people only dream about. I admire you for that. If the winds of change are driving you in a new life direction, so be it! Attack your new direction with same passion you lived this journey. I suppose it's true that memories can sometimes have more meaning when they are shared with people we love. I wish you the best.

@daughterofgod3721 9 месяцев назад

I can't believe you left us with a cliffhanger in that last video-I'm so glad you posted the cabin journey; I was really curious! God bless you!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I am very guilty of leaving cliffhangers 😅 I love them, can’t help it

@daughterofgod3721 9 месяцев назад

@@ChristianSchaffer It was very effective! You have a real gift for storytelling in addition to absolutely AMAZING visuals! As a person of faith, seeing God's unbelievable creation brings me so much JOY. "I lift up my eyes to the mountains- where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth" (Psalm 121); "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands" (Psalm 19).

@NCislander 9 месяцев назад

Merry Christmas Christian. As always loving the pastels you placed throughout this one. Be safe. We'll be watching for you in 2024.

@zachstraxx9899 9 месяцев назад

You're making all the right decisions, as tough as some may be..... I know the feeling of being in such beautiful places and wishing you had someone to share it with..... the soul searching continues.... it will happen for you !

@danholcomb4490 Месяц назад

Listening to your ongoing story makes every day better. Few people are as articulate, a few of them write wonderful books (think Elizabeth Gilbert, Barbara Kingsolver, to name just two). I see you writing in a journal...is there a memoir in your future so many more out there can be enriched by your wonderful story? I believe the Universe is in charge. We can just put our thoughts out there and wait to recognize opportunities that come our way. Your ability to process life/feelings/needs is wondrous. Dan H

@northcoastoutdoorchannel 9 месяцев назад

You did a fantastic job telling the story. You production is unreal!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thank you 🥲

@GarethMonteiro-ul5mj 9 месяцев назад

Love these little updates. Especially the escape to Yosemite and Big Sur when you feel like you need "home" views again. :)

@krisc9000 5 месяцев назад

During my entire law enforcement career, I have wanted to buy land and live off grid. But at the same time,I struggled with also wanting van life. I struggled for years about giving up my career and buying a van. Long story short, I got hurt at work and I am no longer a cop. I started my police career in Missouri. I went to the academy in Columbia and lived in Lees Summit. After a lot of thinking, I have decided to buy an off road van and travel for a while. Then purchase some land,possibly in MO, since all my friends are there. Im gonna live off grid and travel in the van for when I get the itch to just go. Great videos and I have no doubt you will make the best decision when it’s time. Be safe on the road!!

@PeteLeuenberger 9 месяцев назад

Watching this video, you are not just a great videographer, but also a great narrator and writer. Living a similar lifestyle, and having gone through my own journey, I relate with a lot of what you share, and it's inspiring to see you sharing it like that, in a very simple way but filled with intimacy still.

@PeteLeuenberger 9 месяцев назад

Oh, and for health insurance, the compromise I found is Kaiser. They are in Colorado, washington state, california, oregon. Also there are Kaiser partner facilities in other states that will be covered under the. policy. Since I just returned from Europe this year, I have yet to test it in other states than Colorado.

@PeteLeuenberger 9 месяцев назад

And go for the truck camper, much more efficient setup than a van and I get to places few go to. And I have a dual sport bike (CRF 300) on the front carrier, so I take that to go to trailheads and can leave my "home" in safer places. Plus I get to go down trails that a 4x4 would not get to (too narrow).

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thanks Pete - a truck camper would be cool, for sure!

@berndbraeuer9040 9 месяцев назад

Loving your reflections on your life transitions. It’s helping me reflect on mine! 😊

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Love that 🥲

@berndbraeuer9040 9 месяцев назад

@@ChristianSchaffer I’m beginning to wind down parts of my youth charity, focussing a little more on my future.

@Benny2foru 9 месяцев назад

… thinking of deserting my small apartment to live on a 34 ft yacht, returning to something I used to love - photography, writing about my incredible life journey … thank you Christian … wish you a safe & happy Christmas & New Year! 🎄Ben B.

@rjsieder 9 месяцев назад

We are given four grandparents each. I only got to know two of mine, and one of those passed on when I was seven. Yet I have wonderful memories of her, because the visits were seldom due to distance, and special. I spent a summer with her and my cousins and aunts and uncles and it was the best, most memorable summer of my life. You're lucky to have such wonderful memories of your Grandfather and it seems you inherited some of his adventurous spirit. I hoped the cliffhanger from your last episode would resolve into an "I found it" moment. Your wonderful way of storytelling left that option alive even though by the time you edited and released it, you already knew the answer. Kudos for that. And thank you so much for taking us along on your journey, wherever it leads.

@edwardriphagen6396 9 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing your story. I don’t know what you should do and I think that is yours to make although it is not easy. Just trust your heart and I think it will be okay. For now….have a nice Christmas and greetings from the Netherlands.

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Thank you ☺️ Merry Christmas to you, too!

@JTSHADE1 8 месяцев назад

Love your videos Christian! I have only seen this and one other of your videos. I got sucked in by your cinematic beautiful nature shots and your down to earth personality. That is awesome that you chose to live in a van vs an apartment or home that costs significantly more and not falling into the work to live trap. I would agree being stuck in a home paying for a mortgage is not really a life. Living in your van has its ups and downs, but your free! Free as an eagle soaring around with the seasons exploring our beautiful nature. I bet you have a ton of wonderful adventures and stories to tell. Having a place to call your home that you can regroup, think and relax is a necessity. It’s great to travel, but we all need a break from traveling all the time. I currently own a home and have definitely had the trapped feeling. Have you ever gone cruising on a sailboat before? My goal this year, to sell my home downsize and buy a sailboat and enjoy sailing throughout the world.

@ursinidaho 8 месяцев назад

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Christian. Good call on the house sit. Perhaps just do intermittent house sits and research your truck camper options and plan mini trips in between. You can have the best of both worlds! You are smart and resourceful, you will make a good choice based on your past experiences. Enjoy your quiet time. Take walks.......

@russelljackman1413 9 месяцев назад

Wow... talking about tugging at the heart-strings! I can more than just imagine your mixed emotions as you visited your grandparents property; I remember visiting my grandparents property in Mountain View, Wyoming, with the same prospects of buying it and keeping it in the family. It was both a happy visit and a solemn one. Grandpa had 200 acres there and, like your property, it was beautiful in its own way, with a commanding view of the Uintah mountains, but it is essentially in the middle of nowhere. Even my own Dad (Grandpa's son) discouraged me from buying it. It would have been fine, had I the ambition to be a shepherd like Grandpa and his sons were, but I had a great job working as a Freight Conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad. So, long story short, l passed on buying it. It was the best decision, but still, a hard one to make. I wish you all the best for your future, Christian. I have faith that, whatever you do and wherever you go, you will have a happy and prosperous life! How could it be any other way, with the amazing talent, intelligence and wisdom that you possess (let alone, good Karma)? You will be just fine! Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year, Christian! May God bless you, real good! 😊❤

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

Ah, that would be so tough. 200 acres is a huge responsibility, but also - wow. Would be so cool. Glad you did what was best for you 🙏🏻 Happy holidays!

@paulelverstone8677 9 месяцев назад

Ah man! I'm watching the footage of the Ozarks and all I'm thinking is 'next chapter, page 1' but it wasn't to be. Fair enough. It will always be there, which must be nice to know. Sometimes that next step isn't always the right step. It'll look right, feel right, sound right but might not be right. I never got it right straight away - took a bit more looking... and a fair bit of denial. Keep searching - the world needs searchers...

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

🥲🙏🏻

@timwillis6292 8 месяцев назад

Christian, you are great at letting life lead you along your own personal life's adventure. Your smile testifies to the peace that you maintain within yourself ; even as you wrestle with the multitude of difficult decisions you have deal with on a daily basis. You are truly an inspiration. Keep on truckin'. 🌿

@ShadeTreeKennyT 9 месяцев назад

I can totally relate to your feelings about your grandfather, and wanting to pick up where he left off, and all the memories. I lost mine suddenly at 14, we were very close. The property he had there is amazing. I can understand the conundrum you were in, and it must have been a tough decision. I want to see the west in a van someday as well, been on the east coast my whole life. Your videos make me want to see the west even more so, and keep my dream alive for an epic road trip!

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

So sorry about your Grandfather 😕 I hope you make it out west, it’s worth the trip I promise

@AngelsExcursions 5 месяцев назад

Feeling the same way, I've been in my van almost 4 years and am craving stability. I bought land last year and am planning what the future will look like. Be patient with yourself and continue to dare to dream of what will be. When it's time the universe will align and show you the way! Love your content btw! Thanks for sharing. 🥰

@randybecker7339 9 месяцев назад

Merry Christmas and I'm glad you're thinking deeply about all of this. And also that you're no longer near the flooding going on in SoCal.

@bobmariano3731 9 месяцев назад

What a great & inspiration story Christian, so sorry for your loss, keep holding on to the wonderful memories. 🙏

@bobmariano3731 9 месяцев назад

Lost my dear Mom too July 11th 😢

@ChristianSchaffer 9 месяцев назад

I’m so sorry 😔❤️

@bobmariano3731 9 месяцев назад

Thx u 🙏

@TuesdayNightFever 9 месяцев назад

Good decision. Your Grandpas story really moved me because I was very close to mine. I miss him more than anyone. I’m also from rural Missouri but moved to the southwest ( Santa Fe) when I was 20. Just can’t imagine going back no matter how affordable it is.

@israelcontreras5332 8 месяцев назад

Im sitting here with popcorn as I watch your life unfolding. I found your videos back in the summer . It gave me a vision for what I want to do when i retire. Im 50 now…i have about five more years. The plan is to build out an rv van…and hit the road as much as I can… If I was 20 again, I would do what you are doing. I would even maybe try and live somewhere overseas like Paris or something. I wouldn’t get married or “find a partner.” Im 50, married and dream of the life you live. My wife and I have both said we wouldn’t get married if we were younger and could do it again. Most do it out of a sense of religious bs. So while you may be wanting to share the experiences you are having with someone, someone else would probably screw it up….or at least possibly tarnish the experience. Your videos on learning to be alone spoke deeply to me. I realized that I needed to learn to be more comfortable with just me. Also being married for 20 years has taught me how much I didnt treasure my alone time while younger snd single. Good luck on the health insurance. I wished I had some recommendations. Check out the wendell berry book, “Jayber Crow.”

@billwalkerarts 9 месяцев назад

I recently dropped out of six years of full time van life into renting part of a house in Columbus, Ohio. I was feeling a need for community and simplicity where I could focus more on making music and less on finding a place to do it. I fell right into an ecstatic dance community that has provided me with more fascinating and open people than I've ever encountered. After just a few months I'm feeling surrounded by loving fascinating humans and have more interesting creative projects on my plate than I know what to do with. It's been every bit as magical an adventure as any part of my (very happy) van life. It's been amazing.

@sbai4319 9 месяцев назад

I used to work in country South Australia. Outback travel gets into your soul. Red ochre dirt stains your hands and the need to be around it and revisit it never leaves you! 🇦🇺

@georgehouse4747 9 месяцев назад

Wow...I Don't know if you see the I won't say Struggle you are going through..sometimes it can be So Hard to See the forest for the tree's as they say. I definitely know you have lived an amazing life in Many ways that most people don't allow themselves to do or to at least jump in full Barrels loaded..be proud of that ❤. I can really tell how much your grandfather has influenced your life and some Amazing similarities between you both..I like you have always been a nomad and seeker..like your grandfather I have alot of the same dreams about things like horses and Australia and so much more..I spent 6 months in the Beartooth mtns on the Boulder River on a horse ranch just on the northern end of Yellowstone. It's something I will for ever treasure and many other experiences..I know I made this way too long 'Grasshopper ' but I have a sense I won't even try to explain..but I will leave you with this last thought...from something you said and never experienced....sometimes the answers are right in front of us and I think I know what they are..but we again look past the obvious that is there..maybe because we haven't had them..and in so many ways that is sad and yes lonely..perhaps to take that risk is the Scariest of all ❤ . Peace Christian and Always be Safe..and know that sometimes the risks we don't take are the ones that will get us the Happiness,peace and love that we truly all want ✌️