Camps-giving Reflections: Thanksgiving From a Solo Traveler

It feels SO GOOD to be back in the van. Let me tell you, I have grown a strange attachment to Marv. Even though there have been issues with him, the van has become my home. It is the only constant in my ever-changing life, and I did not realize how important that was. I LOVE my van. Not because it’s perfect or because it never has issues (Ha! I wish!) but because it is my home, my sanctuary, my lifeline. I knew I would love Marv, because like all my vehicles, I name them and give them personality, but this is different. After a day or two staying in a friend's house, I am definitely ready to be back in the van. It’s me and Marv against the world!

Anyhow, I spent the days leading up to Thanksgiving in a little campground in New Mexico. There were a few other campers there and a decent amount of local traffic because of the lake where people came every day to fish. 

The campground was peaceful and a great place to relax. I spent my time reading, journaling, making food, slack-lining, sitting by the fire, and watching the fishers by the lake. On Thanksgiving, I decided that I would have a “feast” which consisted of a hobo dinner, a s’more dessert (add peanut butter, of course), and hot tea all cooked over the fire. As I was preparing the food for my feast, a woman from the neighboring campsite came over to say hi and brought me leftovers from their Thanksgiving dinner. She asked if I was there alone, which I found funny since we had both been there for the past three days, and said she would have been scared to be me.

 I think this is a huge misconception that happens a lot. People tend to assume that I am not afraid for my safety. I am. I take a lot of precautions and steps to make sure I am safe. Even though there is a lot to be afraid of, I’ve decided that I am not willing to let it dictate how I live my life and what I want to do. I do, however, adjust and take extra steps to put myself in the best possible situation. I am still afraid sometimes, but I am learning how to be courageous and live in my fear instead of avoiding it. 

The woman who brought the plate of food chatted for a little and returned to her camp. When I opened the plate, I found myself staring at a full dinner! Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, corn, and to top it off, freshly baked bread. I couldn’t help but inhale half of the plate. It had been a long time since I had any of those foods, and it definitely hit the spot. It was only 4:30 at this point, and I was really looking forward to my hobo dinner, so I decided I would still make it and have leftovers. 

I had so much fun preparing my food, building the fire, cooking, and even cleaning up (yes, I know, very crazy). But I don’t know, over the past few weeks, I have really been able to find so much value in every small thing that I do. I think living such a different life than what I was used to has grown my appreciation in so many ways. While I was camping, I took some time to reflect on my life and what I’ve learned so far. 

A few of my reflections: 

Adventure everyday is exhilarating but exhausting. I need to keep that in mind, and take time to let myself feel safe and relaxed. 

Everything we do can have value if we let it. 

I miss people exponentially more when I want to share my experience with them. 

I love sharing my life with my loved ones. 

I love early travel mornings and the excitement for my adventure to come. 

I need new music to listen to.

Resilience and resourcefulness are two of the most important skills. (in my situation)

Connecting with people, whether they are strangers or old friends, is so life-giving.

And

I am currently living the life that my past self has been dreaming of for years. 

The last one really struck me. One morning, I quickly got dressed and started boiling water for coffee to fend off the cold. As I paused to take in my surroundings, I heard birds singing, felt the crisp, fresh air fill my lungs, and saw the sun stretching over the trees, almost touching my skin. In that moment, I realized this was what I had been dreaming of. It was what I envisioned over the past year when I was grappling with school, work, or even building the van. I had been eagerly anticipating this very moment. Overcome with emotion, I just sat and cried. These were tears of joy, pride, and wonder. I have come so far, my life has transformed so much, and despite the challenges and hardships I encounter, I love my life. I love who I have become and what I am doing. Not everyone gets to experience this feeling, and I am incredibly fortunate to make my dreams come true. 

This reality wouldn’t be possible without the many hands that have helped me in so many ways. I want to give a shout-out to my family for being in my corner and my helping hand, even when we are thousands of miles apart. I could not do this without them. 

Although Thanksgiving has come and gone, I have found myself in a state of immense gratitude so often lately. I think I am learning that it is important to feel gratitude deeply and often. We have so much to be thankful for, and in the busyness of life, I think we forget about it. No matter how low circumstances can get, I believe there is always something to be grateful for. 

Gratitude is more than just an emotion; it is a deliberate practice that enriches my life experience.