37 Comments
User's avatar
Lynn's avatar

Is that an AI picture of the cat?

Liza's avatar

The cat is distorted so it must be

Laura Apfelbeck's avatar

Hello from a little farther north on the lakeshore. Thanks for your story. I suspect there are a lot of folks in similar situations.

Carol Seymour's avatar

Yes, especially in California.

Carol Seymour's avatar

Hi Laura,

Yes, there are a lot of people living and working a full time job from their car or van. it must be rough in the cold ice and snow.

Julie Akins's avatar

The gift of enough-ness

Giancarlo Pia's avatar

Hi Carol, thank you for sharing your story. I believe in the kindness of strangers - is there any small luxury you want (or need). Perhaps some fancy body wash and shampoo, a sweater for your sweet cat,.or a some gourmet chocalates, please message me and I'd love to send something your way..I'm not a hundred percent where I could send - perhaps your place of employment? Take care.

Kate Voges's avatar

I like your choice. If you haven't tried it, don't knock it.

The Crack's avatar

We lost our home in the 2008 crash and found ourselves in a similar situation. We stumbled into working as campground hosts for state parks mostly to further cut our cost of living. Typically we traded about 20 hours a week of work for a campsite and amenities, usually full hookup and sometimes Wi-Fi or cable tv. It was wonderful. We ended up doing that for almost ten years migrating north to south seasonally. We made friends we have kept till this day and got to live in places most people only vacation.

Carol Seymour's avatar

Maybe losing your home back in 2008 was a blessing. Have you thought about it that way. You’ve had a 10 year experience most people only dream about. You must have learned some valuable insights about what a ‘rich life really feels like”. I’m happy for you.

The Crack's avatar

It did turn out to be a good thing. It meant I got to spend a good portion of the year neat my Mom in what turned out to be her last years. I lived in beautiful places, met lovely people and did good work helping preserve some relatively unspoiled places. I slowed way down and got healthy physically again.

Vicki R's avatar

There’s nothing wrong with living a minimalist lifestyle. I think it’s smart. I wish you all the best on your journey. Thank you for sharing your story.

Kamal G's avatar

Very inspirational and positive post, especially in the current times of uncertainty and constant stress on multiple counts. Stay safe, strong and blessed, take care

Nancy L. Hoffmann's avatar

I don’t have a care, let alone a van. When I’m homeless in a few years (I’m 80 now), I don’t know what will happen. My family is all dead. So I don’t think about it. But I truly appreciate your sharing your story!

Nancy L. Hoffmann's avatar

Spellcheck!! “I don’t have a car …”

Beelady's avatar

In South Dakota you can easily establish a drivers license and permanent mail box from a company called “ my best address” a lot of Van / RV people use that option. My best address will forward on request as needed. The monthly fee is not too high.

Carol Seymour's avatar

That’s good to know Beelady.

Anne Menendez's avatar

I am happy for you. There is a lot to be said for making the most of what you have: a great attitude.

Susan Beeching's avatar

What a beauty Star is! I can't imagine doing what you are doing; but if I did it, I'd have to have a kitty.

Tantra Maat's avatar

I lived in my RV for 3 years. My house now is way to big so of course I got housemates

Susan's avatar

Peaceful life with a dear cat! Glad to hear of your less stressful life.