The opening sequence was literally breathtaking. Weaving in the music while varying the shutter speed was an amazing interplay of elements..literally spellbinding. I am not one to be able to sit for long periods of time looking at the amazing things nature provides…I typically need some kind of a narrative to pull me along so mindfulness is generally a challenge for me. With that said, those first several minutes were like a time out mind experience with kind of unique story unraveling both visually as well as through the music overlay. There was a point, when the tall waterfall entered the frame…where I literally almost said: “oh come on…this is just too much beauty to take in at once”… Sometimes we see a retrospective of an accomplished artist’s early works..where you see potential and hesitation..an exploration of possibilities. In more mature works we then see the ease with which they are able to tell us exactly what they want to tell us. I have watched your vids for a couple of seasons now..and it seems clear to me that artistically you have arrived at a new place. Your previous pieces showed incredible beauty in a passive kind of way…but this was again different. I felt manipulated in a great way that only an accomplished director is capable of doing. The only difference was that you did it with rocks and waves…gusts of wind and waterfalls. I realize this post sounds like a stream of consciousness…but I think this was absolutely beautiful. There is a transcendence in your skills as a film maker that you need to know..has not been missed. Happy travels!
I have no words. Thank you for this - it’s so encouraging to hear that it resonates. These places are so naturally mesmerizing, my work hardly does them justice. Comments like yours help me remember the effort is still worthwhile 🥲🙏🏻
Your video reminds me of what they call the Middle Way in Buddhism. Knowing that attachment brings suffering we let go and try not to be attached but then seeing that attachment to not being attached is attachment we find ourselves stuck between the two. And so we go back and forth finding ourselves attached and letting go. It’s in this back and forth we can call the middle way. We think we have to be one way. But the duality of both is our existence and finding peace in this middle way is our path to waking up and truly letting go. I wish you well
Christian, hi, I am a 76 year old van lifer, nomad, whatever we are called. My wife passed away in 2021 and I made the decision to rid myself of all the materialistic thing's unnecessary to survive while living in a van. You made a comment that made me realize why I chose to be a nomad...that mortgage is the opposite of freedom. True antonyms. Ironically, I am housesitting presently...a beautiful mountain vacation cottage at 6000 feet up in the mountains of SoCal. It's a 'rent-free' venture and I'm loving it. However, I've used the opportunity to slowly rebuild my van's interior, checking all of my gear and appliances and adding a small refrigerator and looking anxiously towards my next road adventure. I've explored nearly all of the coastlines, the parks and met truly wonderful people throughout the West Coast. New Mexico's state parks and the rest of the Southwest are in my plans. Your videos and sage narrations inspire me and your photography skills are amazing.
So sorry for your loss 🙁 As for now, sounds like we are on a similar path. The housesitting has been essential for me in this lifestyle - inevitably reminds me how much I love the road
probs to you sir for living fully at such age! it gives me another perspective on life. As a 27 year old, i sometimes struggle witch what i want but this is just showing me that is never too late for van life
@@ChristianSchaffer hey, how much did this cost for you to get started doing this? I own a place and don’t have a mortgage. I actually own it straight out. And I’m thinking about renting it out and that will allow me to make about $30-$40,000 a year and then allow me to get out on the road and do this., I’ve always been an explorer since the day I was born. Getting lost purposely in order to find my way home. Your videos are absolutely inspiring. The scenery is astonishing. I’m thinking of starting a channel of my own. I have a few videos up but they’re just a drone footage and stuff. I would love to interview you to make it the first official video of my site. We can just do a FaceTime or video, if you’re interested. As I would love to pick your brain for myself, and other people who may be thinking about starting out on their own journey. In any case, thank you again for these videos. They definitely give me a lot to think about of what I want to do coming up in the next six months to a year or so. Hope 2024 is off to a great start for you.
One of the things I love about you is that you do not follow the "World's Script". You never seem to compare yourself with anyone, try to impress anyone, try to "Keep up with the Jones'", etc (at least that's how it comes across in your vids). You're just raw and real. You just take your own straight and narrow way that leads to your own piece of heaven. Thanks for sharing and best wishes always. ✌Peace Christian
I wait patiently for kindred spirits to show me their beauty. There are lots of us out there. Christian certainly is. The transference of energy through pictures, film, story and tone show all for eyes to see her beauty within. Did anyone notice how all of the animals loved her! Animals don't lie. Thanks for sharing with us again.
Whatever you end up doing with your life, PLEASE continue making great photos and videos and sharing your stories with us all. I do enjoy these, thank you!
CORRECT !!! DEBT IS THE OPPOSITE OF FREEDOM!!! First, from one photographer to another let me say beautiful photography! It has been nearly 12 years since I have had to make a mortgage payment and I cannot tell you the difference it makes in the work I will take on. I have 5 acres with an old barn (converting to a house), a creek, rock outcroppings, and some nice black walnut and cedar trees lining the perimeter as well as both sides of the creek. I am so much happier AND easier to be around when I am able to choose exactly the artistic project I wish to undertake and for whom I will work when not being under the stress of having to make a large mortgage.
There’s nobody on UA-cam that can touch your ability to capture a moment in time like you can with your videography skills!! Your videos are appreciated with a warm cup of coffee! Thank you!!!!
Came here for a van life episode, but ended up being mesmerized by the editing, the story telling, the authenticity and vulnerability. "A person often meets their destiny on the road they took to avoid it "
The opening to this video pulls me in and doesn't let go, truly lost in it. I'm also stuck, for various reasons, some more painful than others, thank you for sharing this, i can't stop watching it. Breathtaking
What a wonderful creation! What a magnificent storyteller you are❤. You are blessed with the ability to turn just about anywhere into home. This is possible when you realize that "home" is not a physical place but how you interrupt your surroundings. You have the rare ability to use your creative talents to turn beautiful surroundings into a place of solitude. Hope you find that solitude in the Ozarks. 😊 please keep sharing your "home" with all of use.
There’s no dopamine hit quite like the one you get when seeing a new Christian Schaffer vid pop up in your subscription feed. And the vids never disappoint👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Been missing your beautiful photography, glad your back. Stuck, been there, done that. I think it was in one of Tolle's books where I read something that "stuck" in my head. "Stuck is a label that we give to a natural part of life". Sit with it, surrender to it and stay in the moment. Whatever decision pops up will be the right one.
I'm in the opposite position. I also feel stuck, but I'm stuck in one place. This feeling of stagnation is incredibly frustrating and the thought of living on the road becomes more and more enticing every day. It's that feeling that actually led me to this channel, and for at least, I'm grateful. The Ozarks is a beautiful place, I'm glad you found your way home.
Deep roots can teach valuable lessons, and so can being a wanderer. I am the opposite to you, a true homebody. I love the deep connections you make in a place you stay long term. Travelling for me is a challenge, but I do it so I can learn the lessons that can only be learned by a new perspective. Good luck Christian- no matter what you path you choose, you will grow and learn more about life. One is not better than the other. It just is what it is. ❤
This video is a poem. The most amazing, beautiful poem I have seen. I am not kidding, my soul is still trembling from all emotions this work of art ignites in me. Thanks for making visible and let us experience what a darn wonderful and beautiful planet this is, while at the same time pondering essential questions of being alive. Thank you, Christian. Follow your path. Wish you all the best.
I have been watching you for years, and I'm going to save this one episode because I think it's the best one you have made so far. The first part of the video, with the tongues of fog in the pines with the acompanying music... your story... the poetry of your journey... girl, you had me in a trance. I live vicariously through you, as though if I had been brave, yours is the life I would have led, hardships and all. You are clearly and HSP like myself. You recognize and rest on the tiny, gorgeous details of the nature that surrounds you. Sometimes it overwhelms me how beautiful each shot is and it can bring me to tears. Just keep going through the cycle until you naturally shift into the next one... the main goal is to simply be happy. And I think at the end of the day, you are.
Love this channel - so much more than just exceptional videography. A familiar story to some of us, also. There is this illusion that just because you can do what you want, you do what you want - you don't.... at least not all the time. Constantly moving comes with effort, even if the destinations are amazing, you don't arrive there by magic. And it may wear to the point where fabulous destination followed by fabulous destination isn't what you want anymore, despite how ridiculous that sounds. You've got to search for you place and be aware when you've found it. Maybe that will be in part 2. Have a great Christmas, wherever you may be...
I feel like one big difference between the new generation from the previous is that we cherish our internal voices more and more and we devote time to understand the voices and our selves. I think having time to explore our own needs is a true luxury which everyone needs to be happy and to be more in tune with the nature. I am happy you prioritize this as well! It's irreplaceable.
You are addictive!! Also such wonderful composition photography! I thank you for being there, wherever you find yourself, thank you for taking me along! 🚴
I've only recently settled into just being where I am, and being ok with it. It's the resistence that seems to make things uncomfortable. When the time is right, the next step will reveal itself.
The way you presented this video with all your thoughts and this breathtaking nature..touched me deeply. What a beautiful planet! Thank you taking me along. ❤ I lived in different countries and traveled a lot. You will feel it, when the place is here where u want to settle down or stay at least longer. So heartwarming to see how all these animals love you. Christian, have a fullfilling holiday time and stay happy. Big hug from Italy❤❤🎉
I relate to everything you say here SO deeply. I've been nomadic and living internationally for 7 years and there are so many questions, patterns, unknowns, freedoms, and all! sending you love!
The music and the images are mesmerizing. Beautiful places and spaces. One day we all find our home, sounds like you may all ready have one. All the best.
You present the earth as close as I can imagine our creator, the triune God, must see it. I believe it’s how He wants us to see it. However, most of “us” have so much cultural cataracts that we could physically be standing next to you and without your videos and narrations, never even begin to “see” what you show us! I pray you are a child of the most high God and belong to Jesus as He has so richly gifted you. Thank you so much for enduring the lows to give the world the almost supernatural vistas you share!
Thank you so much for sharing a piece of what and how you get to witness and experience. It puts me in a mood like nothing else. That cinematography + music choice + your voice.. my goodness.
I think we're with everyone else when we say the beginning of this video is off the charts amazing. What brilliant cinematography combined with beautiful music. Loved every minute of it. We'll be getting on the road full time ourselves in a few short years, and we truly can't wait. Your channel helps us know what we'll be getting ourselves into. God bless you, Christian, and safe travels. ❤
It's good to have you back Christian. Ive missed you (I've never said that about You Tube). Your imagery is poetry. Mesmerising. The music choice. The winding road up to the Ozarks, the dialectic between ongoing movement amidst a 'constant absence of change' ... financial freedom vs the nourishment wrought by consistent daily routines ....those bengal cats 💛 (and oh my word, those delicious pleasures associated with stability and wealth) ...the circularity of our decision making process ... the hues of the pacific north west... and all those gorgeous furry family members. Change is afoot for quite a few of us I feel ... however Im noticing that although you are feeling stuck your craft is constantly evolving. Your filmmaking photography - storytelling - writing - is all a little bit spellbinding actually .... go well... 🌿🙏💛
How can I possibly add anything novel and relevant to these comments? It’s so clear that your videos leave an indelible impression on every viewer. Whether you’re stuck or moving forward at 70 mph, you’re embracing what you do. So admirable and inspiring.
As always Christian, Thanks for taking us along on your LIFE journey. I wait patiently for every up coming video, wondering where you'll be, what beauty you'll show us, from your point of view. Hope you find what you're not looking for. We'll be watching over your shoulder from Port Angeles, WA., where the mountains meet the sea... Happy holidays Christian!
Girl, well done, not only is the life you live enviable, your footages is awesome. But the best part is the relaxing effect of your voice/storytelling. The scenes, music, storytelling is next level. Keep it up, greetings from South Africa.
I thank you Christian for your beautiful videos. Gives me a feeling of recognition and makes me dare to take a new crossroads at the age of 61. I have had MS for 34 years and discovered your vlog because I am at a crossroads and want to dive back into life with the purchase of a small camper, so that I can expand my world a bit. This last video showed me how lucky I actually am, because I own a small house in the woods, in the middle of nature, and from that base I can soon go to other places with the camper and then come home every time. I'm curious to see what your path in life will look like and I'm almost certain that there will be many parallels. I am older. You are young. I'm not healthy. You are. So different and yet alike... free spirits.
@ChristianSchaffer Does the dream include having a family of your own? I think you are such a beautiful person, and you live such a life full of beauty and wonder. It should be shared (with your (future) children). (It would almost be a shame if it wasn't.) We don't get to do this over, you know?
I was open to having kids, but I’m 38 now. It hasn’t happened yet, and it’s not a priority for me so I’m just embracing what my life is. I think having a family is a beautiful thing, as are many other different life paths :)
Hey Christian, the question above about the kids is not mine.... As you, I don't have kids and as you, I was open for it, but time went so quickly and it just never happened. I am 61 now but I don't feel that my life is incompleet. As you say....a family can be beautyfull but there are many beautyfull paths to follow. Greetings from a little house with a fireplace and lots of love.
absolutely stunning. From the insane visuals, to the perfect musical accompaniment - your films are such beautiful artwork. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
Hey Christian, Nice to see you back. The scenery was Amazing. Even more fascinating are your shared thoughts throughout your adventures. After watching All of your videos over the past several years (many more than once), I've come to the conclusion that you are truly a Nomad (I think, me too), at least for this "season" of your life. And maybe that may change in the future with the re-discovery of your family's abandoned property ... "Que Sera Sera, Whatever will be will be". Whatever may come, I always wish you the very best.
Wow Christian, I have never wished that we could sit down and chat more than after watching this. I make UA-cam videos in a similar spirit as you and spent the last year on the road with my two cats. All the different phases you're going through with thinking about what to do, weighing the pros and cons, how you feel about life on the road, the financial aspect - OMG, SAME. It's like literally hearing my thoughts echoed back to me. I just made a big decision around all of it and it's like nothing I've done before but it feels so right. Really looking forward to hearing about how your time in the Ozarks fills out and lands. Sending you a big cup of cozy tea and heart to heart conversations in spirit, just know you're so not alone! sending love from my little corner of the world to yours kindred spirit 💛💛💛
I love who you are😂 I can listen to your voice, see your videos and I am there.What is missing is 3D and the fragrance in the air of the places you visit. Like your appearance also. You do seem to be a woman that has a fun life even when the weather isn't suitable for photography. But when I was studying photography, I was taught to take my cameras everywhere, because that is where the pictures are.😊❤ love to you and your work. Keep on🥰👌 P.S. You're not "stuck" , that's only a state of mind. Cute too!😅😊
Not only your images and UA-cam videos are pure art. Your whole life is! Someday you will find the place where you belong to and if not you are already there ♡
Wow. This video is truly a work of ❤️. Thank you for sharing your talent and life's adventures. Honestly, spectacular filmmaking. You will find your place. But I hope you continue to share your journey. It is such a respite for us to watch your videos and dream about your life while we navigate ours.
I'm glad to see that you are fine. I love the combination of the captured footage, the music selection and your editing style with which you create magic and beauty! Nice introspection of the experiences you've had this past year. Debt is the opposite of freedom indeed, and freedom is so important. The location in the Ozarks looks gorgeous. You will find your answer if you spend enough time in silence with your own thoughts and feelings. I'll be waiting for part two. Take care, stay safe and free! Thank you for sharing!
Someone else commented about how struggles are preparing us for something better, and I have to agree. I've traveled to the San Juans twice this year to stay in Ouray, and those experiences camping in the wilderness alone, the sense of adventure and youtubers such as yourself have inspired me to do the same. Got my Tacoma/Cargo Trailer build underway and the house put up for sale :)
I hope you someday find the type of place you are dreaming of, but can still be the free spirit that you are. Keep on creating. The videos are absolutely amazing.
I am a new father and it’ll be a while before I am back on the road. I watch your videos as an escape and to remember the times that I could travel and do landscape photography. I love my current life but I do miss the open road. I appreciate what you do and that you share these moments with us.
@Christian Schaffer, you're such a pleasure to look and listen to. I hope you have a very good and healthy life. Enjoy what you do and keep doing that until you're done with that.
Like you, I have pets all over the country, who live with folks other than me. One little Dachshund, Hanz, loved me so much, he actually squeaked out my name. One friend had fourteen attention-hungry dogs of all sizes, and I'll never forget having them pile on top of me. Great work as always, Christian...
64 acres of abandoned land in the ozarks is the lottery and dream for most people, what luck your family owns that! You hit the jackpot! Love your footage, top tier of all the van lifers!
That song “turn off the lights” is incredible. Whether it’s intentional or not, I love finding random new songs in videos like this. Amazing video and appreciate your work!
I consider myself lucky to live where I am in the northeast kingdom of Vermont, with its incredible peacefulness & beauty, however I have admired your photos and videos from accidentally stumbling across your page. Your stories and eye for the way you portray nature is beautiful and refreshing. The commitment and hard work you put into your passion is what differentiates you from the rest. Keep on being incredible. 🤘🏻
Christian, as so many others have said, your work is powerful and deeply moving. The attention to details like the sound of rain against the van, or lingering on the shimmering surface of water at a beach at sunset, and your appreciation of what life has given you are your creative strengths. Thank you for sharing this.
I think life is about this present moment with its fights and its ephemeral tormented beauty. This moment you sometimes somehow may sacrifice for making it last, for making it arrive to us... This is your call, your special gift God gave, to capture beauty, share beauty, and make beautiful moments last. Whatever you decide to do, I am happy and grateful if you share with us. You are a great artist ❤
These scenes were probably my favorite photography from all your videos! Funny how you feel stuck 'out there', while we're all 'in here' stuck, wanting to be out there too.
You do you. Change is natural and inevitable. So many people are trapped in the 'traditional" lifestyle. These videos give hope to alot of people. I think your teaching courage to those that need it.
Choices. One of life's truly great teachers. As always....great video. Thank you for it, Christian. Wishing you well and I'm looking forward to seeing where the Ozarks meet the thoughtful traveler! Seems like there is something brewing.
Your videos are better than any show that has been on network TV in a long time. Your eye for shooting scenery is extraordinary. I hope you find what you are looking for and within your budget. You definitely have the right idea in avoiding debt, it does take away your freedom. And now you have perfected the cliffhanger, can't wait to see what you find in the Ozarks.
Winter in production is a nice slow down and reminder to spend time on yourself. We love the freedom and convenience of having a van full of gear and to slow down and enjoy each place we stay.
Beautiful as always. I am right there with you. Trust the process and enjoy traveling and staying in and watching beautiful places along the way. It is definitely a sacrifice. I fluctuate from renting sweet spots when i find them, living out of my truck and camping, and living on sailboats.
I sometimes forget that first and foremost you are simply fantastic photographer. Thanks for sharing the beauty of our country. I also love your product development and presentation skills, as I can imagine I am there as well. We love the Pacific NW and am glad yo spend so much time there. The Ozarks can be beautiful as well, especially SW Missouri and NW Arkansas, Enjoy your journey, and thanks for bringing us along. And you are so right about mortgages and debt. Being debt free is delightful!
absolute beauty : appreciate life health freedom your talent all gifts from the perfection of time and space when i feel stuck i drive to the less fortunate places in most every city in our country Be Well Thank you for your posts
You are off scale when it comes to showing the beauty of US nature. You are your self are a beautiful person and I whish everything good in life for you. Go get it!
Love the pet outtakes! I'm a chihuahua lover. My dog bear is 17. The Ozarks sounds like a fun adventure. Having a home base that the family owns gives you the best of both vanlife and stability. That's how I live.
Your videos are astoundingly beautiful. UA-cam creators are sometimes better than actual movie directors. Your camerawork is top notch!! And stories are great. Thanks Christian 😊
Christian, you are one of my few favourite filmmaker and artist. Why ? You are such a simple human, what you show me here is natural beauty (yours of course, and also nature's beauty), and more important : you show me truth. I dont watch your videos all the time, it's been a while, but when I come back it's always the good time and I completely receive your message. Thank you for your simplicity (not hours of talks to say nothing, you say what you want to say and it's always so interesting). All your videos reunited make the true story of a woman whitch I can relate to ❤
There you again leaving us on the edge " I just had to go "........ For shame for shame . Christian , Your photo , videography sheds new light on Gods wonderful creation . You are second to none . Peace & safty beautiful travler .
Breathtaking composition of pictures, music, mood and Your inner voice. Simply loving Your art... home is where Your ❤ is. Thx for sharing and always safe travels. 🙏🙏😇
It's videos like these that remind me what an incredible time of affluence we live in. Our challenges in this modern age literally don't even register on the scale of life challenges compared to people from the past or even some of our sisters and brothers in other parts of the world. Makes me wonder how well I would have handled a truly difficult life had I been dealt one.
This video of yours elicited a powerful emotional and physical response, thank you for sharing it! It’s encouraging to see this life is possible and even more encouraging to see a 76 year old making it a part of his life. I am 66 and experiencing strong urges to simplify life while exploding my experiences. The one thing that slows my thought process a bit is my adult children and grandchildren. Don’t know how it will shape up but maybe someday you’ll see me out there, with my dog, Gus. Hope you have a Merry Christmas.
I can understand the conflict you feel between van life and a more settled existence. For today, maybe it’s enough to just bask in the glow that comes with having choices, and the “freedom” to decide when it suits you. It’s been a while since I’ve listened to you’re posts, it’s nice to be back! Len
Of all these channels, you are the best at capturing each moment and tug at the heart strings. The angles, music, flow, etc is perfect. Wishing you the best CS.
Oh my goodness, I got so enthralled with your journey, the indescribable😮 beautiful scenery and your story-telling as well as your thoughts and dreams that I couldn’t believe it when all of a sudden, it came to an end!
Having it all is what you are doing, with none of the slavery of conventual life! You have found the magic of peace, getting off the "Gerbil wheel of humanity". That is who you are a minimalist, (the Turtle) which has every new encounter as a life experience, some are bad, most are good, and THAT'S ADVENTURE! Imagine looking out your window every day and seeing only the changing weather on the same scene every day. Good for you! Now if only I had done this, humm. You are giving me inspiration. So value that!
Having my morning coffee and wandering to the outdoors in my mind through your videos. Amazing work you do. Good for the nerves. Thank You and Stay Safe🙏👍😎
Some of us are searching their whole life but only the lucky ones find what they are looking for… I follow your story and I recognize the emotions and feelings. Are we different from the rest? So much to tell and share, but to whom, who understands what we feel and think? I hope you find the balance and peace you are looking for and above all, continue with your fantastic videos. I feel very fortunate that in a past life I had the opportunity to explore many of the places you pass by.
I love following your story, it's inspiring! I've just started full time van life and in the process of heading to Florida to escape the cold North! I've been a part timer for about 10 years, the new journey begins. Good luck with your journey and search!
I am happy for you! Keep telling your stories. Keep making your videos and most of all keep doing the things you love most! Thanks for showing us. Till the next.
Most of us have to work hard for half of our life to enjoy a mortgage free last third of it. I don't mind luxury, but most important is that you love the location of your habitat. I hope you find what you are longing for! Thank you for your as always stunning videography.
i'd rather be a free spirit, than a trapped soul..Whats meant to be, will always find a way..Looking forward to part 2..Stay safe little turtle 🐢 🎄🇦🇺☃️🤍
Yes, you’re absolutely right, sometimes you have to wait a bit before you go to the south so not to go too early so that you can experience the change of season before you leave the cold area so that you are really grateful because you are aware of the challenge of the cold and the ease of the warmth. (I often go to Tenerife from December to March so that I can feel the autumn and winter in Germany, Switzerland and Italy as well as France before going to Spain).
It's been a while since I've seen one of your videos, but I've watched enough of them over the past few years to appreciate your storytelling and artistry. About 1.5 years ago I sold my van to respond to a foreign need to feel rooted. I'd never felt that before (although I do know why it surfaced) and didn't know how to satisfy it. I think you were identifying the same thing toward the end of this story. You capture well the disorienting "constant absence of change" that's possible only because you're constantly changing locations--the disorientation that would disappear if you remain in one place to experience seasons. I, too, felt that seeming contradiction. Hearing that you have a place with family connection gave me relief, because I don't have that, except maybe in another country where I don't quite belong. Since staying put for the past year, I've slowly adjusted and more recently have been finding comfort in a sense of stillness that previously would have unsettled me. Thanks for sharing this chapter of your journey, and I hope you'll continue to build that balance for yourself.
You are so precious and blessed to live the life you are living. You have a gift like no other to capture and see amazing things I can only see through the video's. Christian, you were born for THIS. Settling down? Naw too boring and look what you would miss. The special moments will overcome the bad ones. Thank you for sharing your journey ❤
The opening sequence was literally breathtaking. Weaving in the music while varying the shutter speed was an amazing interplay of elements..literally spellbinding.
I am not one to be able to sit for long periods of time looking at the amazing things nature provides…I typically need some kind of a narrative to pull me along so mindfulness is generally a challenge for me.
With that said, those first several minutes were like a time out mind experience with kind of unique story unraveling both visually as well as through the music overlay.
There was a point, when the tall waterfall entered the frame…where I literally almost said: “oh come on…this is just too much beauty to take in at once”…
Sometimes we see a retrospective of an accomplished artist’s early works..where you see potential and hesitation..an exploration of possibilities. In more mature works we then see the ease with which they are able to tell us exactly what they want to tell us.
I have watched your vids for a couple of seasons now..and it seems clear to me that artistically you have arrived at a new place. Your previous pieces showed incredible beauty in a passive kind of way…but this was again different. I felt manipulated in a great way that only an accomplished director is capable of doing. The only difference was that you did it with rocks and waves…gusts of wind and waterfalls.
I realize this post sounds like a stream of consciousness…but I think this was absolutely beautiful. There is a transcendence in your skills as a film maker that you need to know..has not been missed. Happy travels!
I have no words. Thank you for this - it’s so encouraging to hear that it resonates. These places are so naturally mesmerizing, my work hardly does them justice. Comments like yours help me remember the effort is still worthwhile 🥲🙏🏻
@JonJVlogs01 There are ways to watch these ad free. I hope you get to see them the way they should be seen...
@JonJVlogs01 don't be so cheap, sign up for UA-cam premium and you won't have to watch the commercials
@JonJVlogs01 UA-cam Premium is worth its weight in gold.
If only I could have written such a wonderful response!
Your video reminds me of what they call the Middle Way in Buddhism. Knowing that attachment brings suffering we let go and try not to be attached but then seeing that attachment to not being attached is attachment we find ourselves stuck between the two. And so we go back and forth finding ourselves attached and letting go. It’s in this back and forth we can call the middle way. We think we have to be one way. But the duality of both is our existence and finding peace in this middle way is our path to waking up and truly letting go. I wish you well
Christian, hi, I am a 76 year old van lifer, nomad, whatever we are called. My wife passed away in 2021 and I made the decision to rid myself of all the materialistic thing's unnecessary to survive while living in a van. You made a comment that made me realize why I chose to be a nomad...that mortgage is the opposite of freedom. True antonyms. Ironically, I am housesitting presently...a beautiful mountain vacation cottage at 6000 feet up in the mountains of SoCal. It's a 'rent-free' venture and I'm loving it. However, I've used the opportunity to slowly rebuild my van's interior, checking all of my gear and appliances and adding a small refrigerator and looking anxiously towards my next road adventure. I've explored nearly all of the coastlines, the parks and met truly wonderful people throughout the West Coast. New Mexico's state parks and the rest of the Southwest are in my plans. Your videos and sage narrations inspire me and your photography skills are amazing.
So sorry for your loss 🙁 As for now, sounds like we are on a similar path. The housesitting has been essential for me in this lifestyle - inevitably reminds me how much I love the road
probs to you sir for living fully at such age! it gives me another perspective on life. As a 27 year old, i sometimes struggle witch what i want but this is just showing me that is never too late for van life
@@ChristianSchaffer hey, how much did this cost for you to get started doing this? I own a place and don’t have a mortgage. I actually own it straight out. And I’m thinking about renting it out and that will allow me to make about $30-$40,000 a year and then allow me to get out on the road and do this., I’ve always been an explorer since the day I was born. Getting lost purposely in order to find my way home. Your videos are absolutely inspiring. The scenery is astonishing.
I’m thinking of starting a channel of my own. I have a few videos up but they’re just a drone footage and stuff. I would love to interview you to make it the first official video of my site. We can just do a FaceTime or video, if you’re interested. As I would love to pick your brain for myself, and other people who may be thinking about starting out on their own journey.
In any case, thank you again for these videos. They definitely give me a lot to think about of what I want to do coming up in the next six months to a year or so. Hope 2024 is off to a great start for you.
I hope I'm as vigorous as you at 76, I'm 37, 9months old baby with my partner, hope I can stay alive and healthy for a long time
So sorry for your wife, I wish the best for real you're awesome
One of the things I love about you is that you do not follow the "World's Script". You never seem to compare yourself with anyone, try to impress anyone, try to "Keep up with the Jones'", etc (at least that's how it comes across in your vids). You're just raw and real. You just take your own straight and narrow way that leads to your own piece of heaven. Thanks for sharing and best wishes always. ✌Peace Christian
I appreciate you 🥲🙏🏻
@@ChristianSchaffer Thank you Christian, I appreciate you also. Happy Holidays 🌟
I wait patiently for kindred spirits to show me their beauty. There are lots of us out there. Christian certainly is. The transference of energy through pictures, film, story and tone show all for eyes to see her beauty within. Did anyone notice how all of the animals loved her! Animals don't lie. Thanks for sharing with us again.
Thanks for watching 🥲
This comment gave me goosebumps. I feel the same :)
Well that must mean that you are special too. Thanks for you kind comment....on the comment. @@lindaberg
Whatever you end up doing with your life, PLEASE continue making great photos and videos and sharing your stories with us all. I do enjoy these, thank you!
Thank you! 🥲🙏🏻
CORRECT !!! DEBT IS THE OPPOSITE OF FREEDOM!!!
First, from one photographer to another let me say beautiful photography!
It has been nearly 12 years since I have had to make a mortgage payment and I cannot tell you the difference it makes in the work I will take on.
I have 5 acres with an old barn (converting to a house), a creek, rock outcroppings, and some nice black walnut and cedar trees lining the perimeter as well as both sides of the creek.
I am so much happier AND easier to be around when I am able to choose exactly the artistic project I wish to undertake and for whom I will work when not being under the stress of having to make a large mortgage.
There’s nobody on UA-cam that can touch your ability to capture a moment in time like you can with your videography skills!! Your videos are appreciated with a warm cup of coffee! Thank you!!!!
You are so right!
Came here for a van life episode, but ended up being mesmerized by the editing, the story telling, the authenticity and vulnerability. "A person often meets their destiny on the road they took to avoid it "
Thank you Mark 🥲🙏🏻
I love how raw, vulnerable, and passionate you are with your life and videos.
🥲🙏🏻
Me too!
The opening to this video pulls me in and doesn't let go, truly lost in it. I'm also stuck, for various reasons, some more painful than others, thank you for sharing this, i can't stop watching it. Breathtaking
I have found the struggles in our lives are just preparing us for something better and new. Thank you for the content.
🙏🏻🙏🏻
What a wonderful creation! What a magnificent storyteller you are❤. You are blessed with the ability to turn just about anywhere into home. This is possible when you realize that "home" is not a physical place but how you interrupt your surroundings. You have the rare ability to use your creative talents to turn beautiful surroundings into a place of solitude. Hope you find that solitude in the Ozarks. 😊 please keep sharing your "home" with all of use.
Thank you Kenneth 🥲🙏🏻
There’s no dopamine hit quite like the one you get when seeing a new Christian Schaffer vid pop up in your subscription feed. And the vids never disappoint👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Too kind 🥲
Been missing your beautiful photography, glad your back. Stuck, been there, done that. I think it was in one of Tolle's books where I read something that "stuck" in my head. "Stuck is a label that we give to a natural part of life". Sit with it, surrender to it and stay in the moment. Whatever decision pops up will be the right one.
Thanks Dan 🙏🏻
The sunset Hutt was so cool. Love that place. This was great.
I'm in the opposite position. I also feel stuck, but I'm stuck in one place.
This feeling of stagnation is incredibly frustrating and the thought of living on the road becomes more and more enticing every day.
It's that feeling that actually led me to this channel, and for at least, I'm grateful.
The Ozarks is a beautiful place, I'm glad you found your way home.
Holy cow I find myself addicted from now on! Sitting in the Sunset hut makes you shining so beautiful!
Deep roots can teach valuable lessons, and so can being a wanderer. I am the opposite to you, a true homebody. I love the deep connections you make in a place you stay long term. Travelling for me is a challenge, but I do it so I can learn the lessons that can only be learned by a new perspective. Good luck Christian- no matter what you path you choose, you will grow and learn more about life. One is not better than the other. It just is what it is. ❤
Thank you 🥹❤️
This video is a poem. The most amazing, beautiful poem I have seen. I am not kidding, my soul is still trembling from all emotions this work of art ignites in me. Thanks for making visible and let us experience what a darn wonderful and beautiful planet this is, while at the same time pondering essential questions of being alive. Thank you, Christian. Follow your path. Wish you all the best.
I appreciate this so much 🥹🙏🏻
House sitting seems to be the perfect fit to your mobility! Your videos are extremely beautiful, so keep on rolling.
Your stories not only remind me to reflect, but they also inspire me to do so.
Thank you for the lasting impact they have.
Thank you for sharing that 🥲🙏🏻
I have been watching you for years, and I'm going to save this one episode because I think it's the best one you have made so far. The first part of the video, with the tongues of fog in the pines with the acompanying music... your story... the poetry of your journey... girl, you had me in a trance. I live vicariously through you, as though if I had been brave, yours is the life I would have led, hardships and all. You are clearly and HSP like myself. You recognize and rest on the tiny, gorgeous details of the nature that surrounds you. Sometimes it overwhelms me how beautiful each shot is and it can bring me to tears. Just keep going through the cycle until you naturally shift into the next one... the main goal is to simply be happy. And I think at the end of the day, you are.
This hits. Thank you 🥹❤️ And no doubt you are just as, if not more - brave as I could ever be.
I am watching her sporadically, but I recognised instantly in every video I saw that we share the same trait.😊
Love this channel - so much more than just exceptional videography. A familiar story to some of us, also. There is this illusion that just because you can do what you want, you do what you want - you don't.... at least not all the time. Constantly moving comes with effort, even if the destinations are amazing, you don't arrive there by magic. And it may wear to the point where fabulous destination followed by fabulous destination isn't what you want anymore, despite how ridiculous that sounds. You've got to search for you place and be aware when you've found it. Maybe that will be in part 2.
Have a great Christmas, wherever you may be...
I appreciate you 🥲🙏🏻
I feel like one big difference between the new generation from the previous is that we cherish our internal voices more and more and we devote time to understand the voices and our selves. I think having time to explore our own needs is a true luxury which everyone needs to be happy and to be more in tune with the nature. I am happy you prioritize this as well! It's irreplaceable.
You are addictive!! Also such wonderful composition photography! I thank you for being there, wherever you find yourself, thank you for taking me along!
🚴
I just love you videos. Your voice is so calming and then add the music, edits, photography and storytelling and wow. Can't wait to see the Ozarks.
Thanks Danny 🥲🙏🏻
I've only recently settled into just being where I am, and being ok with it. It's the resistence that seems to make things uncomfortable. When the time is right, the next step will reveal itself.
🙏🏻🙏🏻
Look at how much you have impacted so many in a positive way. 😊😊😊
That was beautiful! Loved the sounds and colors of nature. And you left us hanging there at the end. Can't wait to see the Ozarks...
The way you presented this video with all your thoughts and this breathtaking nature..touched me deeply.
What a beautiful planet! Thank you taking me along.
❤ I lived in different countries and traveled a lot. You will feel it, when the place is here where u want to settle down or stay at least longer.
So heartwarming to see how all these animals love you.
Christian, have a fullfilling holiday time and stay happy.
Big hug from Italy❤❤🎉
Grazie mille 🥲🙏🏻
I relate to everything you say here SO deeply. I've been nomadic and living internationally for 7 years and there are so many questions, patterns, unknowns, freedoms, and all! sending you love!
The music and the images are mesmerizing. Beautiful places and spaces. One day we all find our home, sounds like you may all ready have one. All the best.
You present the earth as close as I can imagine our creator, the triune God, must see it. I believe it’s how He wants us to see it. However, most of “us” have so much cultural cataracts that we could physically be standing next to you and without your videos and narrations, never even begin to “see” what you show us! I pray you are a child of the most high God and belong to Jesus as He has so richly gifted you. Thank you so much for enduring the lows to give the world the almost supernatural vistas you share!
Thank you so much for sharing a piece of what and how you get to witness and experience. It puts me in a mood like nothing else.
That cinematography + music choice + your voice.. my goodness.
Thanks for watching 🥲🙏🏻
I think we're with everyone else when we say the beginning of this video is off the charts amazing. What brilliant cinematography combined with beautiful music. Loved every minute of it. We'll be getting on the road full time ourselves in a few short years, and we truly can't wait. Your channel helps us know what we'll be getting ourselves into. God bless you, Christian, and safe travels. ❤
It's good to have you back Christian. Ive missed you (I've never said that about You Tube). Your imagery is poetry. Mesmerising. The music choice. The winding road up to the Ozarks, the dialectic between ongoing movement amidst a 'constant absence of change' ... financial freedom vs the nourishment wrought by consistent daily routines ....those bengal cats 💛 (and oh my word, those delicious pleasures associated with stability and wealth) ...the circularity of our decision making process ... the hues of the pacific north west... and all those gorgeous furry family members. Change is afoot for quite a few of us I feel ... however Im noticing that although you are feeling stuck your craft is constantly evolving. Your filmmaking photography - storytelling - writing - is all a little bit spellbinding actually .... go well... 🌿🙏💛
How can I possibly add anything novel and relevant to these comments? It’s so clear that your videos leave an indelible impression on every viewer. Whether you’re stuck or moving forward at 70 mph, you’re embracing what you do. So admirable and inspiring.
As always Christian, Thanks for taking us along on your LIFE journey. I wait patiently for every up coming video, wondering where you'll be, what beauty you'll show us, from your point of view. Hope you find what you're not looking for. We'll be watching over your shoulder from Port Angeles, WA., where the mountains meet the sea... Happy holidays Christian!
what a beautiful place to call home 🍃☺️
Girl, well done, not only is the life you live enviable, your footages is awesome. But the best part is the relaxing effect of your voice/storytelling. The scenes, music, storytelling is next level. Keep it up, greetings from South Africa.
I thank you Christian for your
beautiful videos. Gives me a feeling of recognition and makes me dare to take a new crossroads at the age of 61. I have had MS for 34 years and discovered your vlog because I am at a crossroads and want to dive back into life with the purchase of a small camper, so that I can expand my world a bit. This last video showed me how lucky I actually am, because I own a small house in the woods, in the middle of nature, and from that base I can soon go to other places with the camper and then come home every time. I'm curious to see what your path in life will look like and I'm almost certain that there will be many parallels. I am older. You are young. I'm not healthy. You are.
So different and yet alike... free spirits.
a house in the woods + adventure rig is definitely the dream ☺️
@ChristianSchaffer Does the dream include having a family of your own? I think you are such a beautiful person, and you live such a life full of beauty and wonder. It should be shared (with your (future) children). (It would almost be a shame if it wasn't.)
We don't get to do this over, you know?
I was open to having kids, but I’m 38 now. It hasn’t happened yet, and it’s not a priority for me so I’m just embracing what my life is. I think having a family is a beautiful thing, as are many other different life paths :)
Hey Christian, the question above about the kids is not mine....
As you, I don't have kids and as you, I was open for it, but time went so quickly and it just never happened.
I am 61 now but I don't feel that my life is incompleet.
As you say....a family can be beautyfull but there are many beautyfull paths to follow.
Greetings from a little house with a fireplace and lots of love.
@@Carine1962 Oh! I didn’t realize it wasn’t your comment till just now, ha ☺️ Thank you for sharing your experience, means a lot ❤️
absolutely stunning. From the insane visuals, to the perfect musical accompaniment - your films are such beautiful artwork. Thanks for sharing your journey with us.
Always absolutely amazing thank you so much for all you share so Beautiful 😊❤
Thanks for watching 🥲🙏🏻
@@ChristianSchaffer love your content should come too Iowa when you are in Arkansas 😊❤️
Thank you so much 😊 ❤️
Hey Christian, Nice to see you back. The scenery was Amazing. Even more fascinating are your shared thoughts throughout your adventures. After watching All of your videos over the past several years (many more than once), I've come to the conclusion that you are truly a Nomad (I think, me too), at least for this "season" of your life. And maybe that may change in the future with the re-discovery of your family's abandoned property ... "Que Sera Sera, Whatever will be will be". Whatever may come, I always wish you the very best.
Thank you 🥲🙏🏻 Tis all an adventure, that much is for sure!
Wow Christian, I have never wished that we could sit down and chat more than after watching this. I make UA-cam videos in a similar spirit as you and spent the last year on the road with my two cats. All the different phases you're going through with thinking about what to do, weighing the pros and cons, how you feel about life on the road, the financial aspect - OMG, SAME. It's like literally hearing my thoughts echoed back to me. I just made a big decision around all of it and it's like nothing I've done before but it feels so right. Really looking forward to hearing about how your time in the Ozarks fills out and lands. Sending you a big cup of cozy tea and heart to heart conversations in spirit, just know you're so not alone! sending love from my little corner of the world to yours kindred spirit 💛💛💛
Appreciate this so much 🥲❤️ Big hug!
I love who you are😂 I can listen to your voice, see your videos and I am there.What is missing is 3D and the fragrance in the air of the places you visit. Like your appearance also. You do seem to be a woman that has a fun life even when the weather isn't suitable for photography. But when I was studying photography, I was taught to take my cameras everywhere, because that is where the pictures are.😊❤ love to you and your work.
Keep on🥰👌
P.S. You're not "stuck" , that's only a state of mind. Cute too!😅😊
Not only your images and UA-cam videos are pure art. Your whole life is! Someday you will find the place where you belong to and if not you are already there ♡
Thank you 🥲
Wow. This video is truly a work of ❤️. Thank you for sharing your talent and life's adventures. Honestly, spectacular filmmaking. You will find your place. But I hope you continue to share your journey. It is such a respite for us to watch your videos and dream about your life while we navigate ours.
And there are people who are static in one place that want to do what you do. That's why the world is round.😊 Just beautiful.
A masterpiece, as always ❤
Aw thank you 🥹🤍
We in the Northwest love the rain we'd love to hear the rain pouring down on a roof or on our windshield. It's very comforting and very special
I'm glad to see that you are fine. I love the combination of the captured footage, the music selection and your editing style with which you create magic and beauty! Nice introspection of the experiences you've had this past year. Debt is the opposite of freedom indeed, and freedom is so important. The location in the Ozarks looks gorgeous. You will find your answer if you spend enough time in silence with your own thoughts and feelings. I'll be waiting for part two. Take care, stay safe and free! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for being here ☺️
Someone else commented about how struggles are preparing us for something better, and I have to agree.
I've traveled to the San Juans twice this year to stay in Ouray, and those experiences camping in the wilderness alone, the sense of adventure and youtubers such as yourself have inspired me to do the same. Got my Tacoma/Cargo Trailer build underway and the house put up for sale :)
That is so amazing. Honestly I think if I had a 4x4 rig, I wouldn’t be having so many doubts. It unlocks a whole new world of exploration
I hope you someday find the type of place you are dreaming of, but can still be the free spirit that you are. Keep on creating. The videos are absolutely amazing.
I am a new father and it’ll be a while before I am back on the road. I watch your videos as an escape and to remember the times that I could travel and do landscape photography. I love my current life but I do miss the open road. I appreciate what you do and that you share these moments with us.
Thank you and congrats! What an exciting time ☺️
GOOD LORD the cinematography in this vlog rivals most movies/TV shows/documentaries. Just stunning!
And the soul searching continues..... I believe there's room for both places you seek in your life. 😊
🙏🏻🙏🏻
@Christian Schaffer, you're such a pleasure to look and listen to. I hope you have a very good and healthy life. Enjoy what you do and keep doing that until you're done with that.
Christian, my blood pressure dropped 30% while watching this! Thank you!!❤
Glad you liked it ☺️🙏🏻
Christian Schaffer's America is epic. The world needs this imagery.
Like you, I have pets all over the country, who live with folks other than me. One little Dachshund, Hanz, loved me so much, he actually squeaked out my name. One friend had fourteen attention-hungry dogs of all sizes, and I'll never forget having them pile on top of me. Great work as always, Christian...
64 acres of abandoned land in the ozarks is the lottery and dream for most people, what luck your family owns that! You hit the jackpot! Love your footage, top tier of all the van lifers!
That song “turn off the lights” is incredible. Whether it’s intentional or not, I love finding random new songs in videos like this. Amazing video and appreciate your work!
I consider myself lucky to live where I am in the northeast kingdom of Vermont, with its incredible peacefulness & beauty, however I have admired your photos and videos from accidentally stumbling across your page. Your stories and eye for the way you portray nature is beautiful and refreshing. The commitment and hard work you put into your passion is what differentiates you from the rest. Keep on being incredible. 🤘🏻
Christian, as so many others have said, your work is powerful and deeply moving. The attention to details like the sound of rain against the van, or lingering on the shimmering surface of water at a beach at sunset, and your appreciation of what life has given you are your creative strengths. Thank you for sharing this.
Thank you 🥲🙏🏻
I think life is about this present moment with its fights and its ephemeral tormented beauty. This moment you sometimes somehow may sacrifice for making it last, for making it arrive to us... This is your call, your special gift God gave, to capture beauty, share beauty, and make beautiful moments last. Whatever you decide to do, I am happy and grateful if you share with us. You are a great artist ❤
These scenes were probably my favorite photography from all your videos! Funny how you feel stuck 'out there', while we're all 'in here' stuck, wanting to be out there too.
Grass is always greener 🙃😉
You do you. Change is natural and inevitable. So many people are trapped in the 'traditional" lifestyle. These videos give hope to alot of people. I think your teaching courage to those that need it.
Choices. One of life's truly great teachers. As always....great video. Thank you for it, Christian. Wishing you well and I'm looking forward to seeing where the Ozarks meet the thoughtful traveler! Seems like there is something brewing.
☺️🙏🏻
Your videos are better than any show that has been on network TV in a long time. Your eye for shooting scenery is extraordinary. I hope you find what you are looking for and within your budget. You definitely have the right idea in avoiding debt, it does take away your freedom. And now you have perfected the cliffhanger, can't wait to see what you find in the Ozarks.
Stunning landscapes!
Such vibrant colors!
Thank you for sharing!
Winter in production is a nice slow down and reminder to spend time on yourself. We love the freedom and convenience of having a van full of gear and to slow down and enjoy each place we stay.
So true!
Beautiful as always. I am right there with you. Trust the process and enjoy traveling and staying in and watching beautiful places along the way. It is definitely a sacrifice. I fluctuate from renting sweet spots when i find them, living out of my truck and camping, and living on sailboats.
I sometimes forget that first and foremost you are simply fantastic photographer. Thanks for sharing the beauty of our country. I also love your product development and presentation skills, as I can imagine I am there as well. We love the Pacific NW and am glad yo spend so much time there. The Ozarks can be beautiful as well, especially SW Missouri and NW Arkansas, Enjoy your journey, and thanks for bringing us along. And you are so right about mortgages and debt. Being debt free is delightful!
absolute beauty : appreciate life health freedom your talent all gifts from the perfection of time and space when i feel stuck i drive to the less fortunate places in most every city in our country Be Well Thank you for your posts
You are off scale when it comes to showing the beauty of US nature. You are your self are a beautiful person and I whish everything good in life for you. Go get it!
Love the pet outtakes! I'm a chihuahua lover. My dog bear is 17. The Ozarks sounds like a fun adventure. Having a home base that the family owns gives you the best of both vanlife and stability. That's how I live.
Aw I love the name Bear 🥲
Thanks. I didn't want a ninny chihuahua, so I gave him a fierce name. 😝@@ChristianSchaffer
Your videos are astoundingly beautiful. UA-cam creators are sometimes better than actual movie directors. Your camerawork is top notch!! And stories are great. Thanks Christian 😊
Christian, you are one of my few favourite filmmaker and artist. Why ? You are such a simple human, what you show me here is natural beauty (yours of course, and also nature's beauty), and more important : you show me truth. I dont watch your videos all the time, it's been a while, but when I come back it's always the good time and I completely receive your message. Thank you for your simplicity (not hours of talks to say nothing, you say what you want to say and it's always so interesting). All your videos reunited make the true story of a woman whitch I can relate to ❤
There you again leaving us on the edge " I just had to go "........ For shame for shame .
Christian , Your photo , videography sheds new light on Gods wonderful creation . You are second to none .
Peace & safty beautiful travler .
🤓
Breathtaking composition of pictures, music, mood and Your inner voice. Simply loving Your art... home is where Your ❤ is. Thx for sharing and always safe travels. 🙏🙏😇
🙏🏻🙏🏻
It's videos like these that remind me what an incredible time of affluence we live in. Our challenges in this modern age literally don't even register on the scale of life challenges compared to people from the past or even some of our sisters and brothers in other parts of the world. Makes me wonder how well I would have handled a truly difficult life had I been dealt one.
This video of yours elicited a powerful emotional and physical response, thank you for sharing it! It’s encouraging to see this life is possible and even more encouraging to see a 76 year old making it a part of his life. I am 66 and experiencing strong urges to simplify life while exploding my experiences. The one thing that slows my thought process a bit is my adult children and grandchildren. Don’t know how it will shape up but maybe someday you’ll see me out there, with my dog, Gus.
Hope you have a Merry Christmas.
I can understand the conflict you feel between van life and a more settled existence. For today, maybe it’s enough to just bask in the glow that comes with having choices, and the “freedom” to decide when it suits you. It’s been a while since I’ve listened to you’re posts, it’s nice to be back! Len
PS - loved your background music! Some nice cello sounds toward the end
Thank you 🙏🏻 Learning to embrace this space that I’m in ☺️
Of all these channels, you are the best at capturing each moment and tug at the heart strings. The angles, music, flow, etc is perfect. Wishing you the best CS.
Truly magical as always. The beginning wave shots…transitioning to waterfall, then to river…just everything. Simply magical.❤
Thank you 🥲
Oh my goodness, I got so enthralled with your journey, the indescribable😮 beautiful scenery and your story-telling as well as your thoughts and dreams that I couldn’t believe it when all of a sudden, it came to an end!
Stunning beyond words! The coastal imagery and the Sounds are awesome!
Having it all is what you are doing, with none of the slavery of conventual life! You have found the magic of peace, getting off the "Gerbil wheel of humanity". That is who you are a minimalist, (the Turtle) which has every new encounter as a life experience, some are bad, most are good, and THAT'S ADVENTURE! Imagine looking out your window every day and seeing only the changing weather on the same scene every day.
Good for you! Now if only I had done this, humm. You are giving me inspiration. So value that!
🙏🏻
Having my morning coffee and wandering to the outdoors in my mind through your videos. Amazing work you do. Good for the nerves. Thank You and Stay Safe🙏👍😎
Some of us are searching their whole life but only the lucky ones find what they are looking for… I follow your story and I recognize the emotions and feelings. Are we different from the rest? So much to tell and share, but to whom, who understands what we feel and think? I hope you find the balance and peace you are looking for and above all, continue with your fantastic videos. I feel very fortunate that in a past life I had the opportunity to explore many of the places you pass by.
Soulful sounds. Gentle, soothing, vistas, inspiring scapes & genuine, inward journeys. Thanks!
I love following your story, it's inspiring! I've just started full time van life and in the process of heading to Florida to escape the cold North! I've been a part timer for about 10 years, the new journey begins. Good luck with your journey and search!
That’s awesome, stoked for you! 🙌🏻
Don’t like Florida! Sticky hot bad politics.
@sharaswitala6296 Nothing but sand, sun, and waves. Not a lot of politics on the beach! 🤣
I am happy for you! Keep telling your stories. Keep making your videos and most of all keep doing the things you love most! Thanks for showing us. Till the next.
I appreciate you, Edward 🥲🙏🏻
Your level of sophistication and sense of beauty is what I respect the most.
Most of us have to work hard for half of our life to enjoy a mortgage free last third of it. I don't mind luxury, but most important is that you love the location of your habitat. I hope you find what you are longing for! Thank you for your as always stunning videography.
i'd rather be a free spirit, than a trapped soul..Whats meant to be, will always find a way..Looking forward to part 2..Stay safe little turtle 🐢 🎄🇦🇺☃️🤍
Yes, you’re absolutely right, sometimes you have to wait a bit before you go to the south so not to go too early so that you can experience the change of season before you leave the cold area so that you are really grateful because you are aware of the challenge of the cold and the ease of the warmth. (I often go to Tenerife from December to March so that I can feel the autumn and winter in Germany, Switzerland and Italy as well as France before going to Spain).
It's been a while since I've seen one of your videos, but I've watched enough of them over the past few years to appreciate your storytelling and artistry. About 1.5 years ago I sold my van to respond to a foreign need to feel rooted. I'd never felt that before (although I do know why it surfaced) and didn't know how to satisfy it. I think you were identifying the same thing toward the end of this story. You capture well the disorienting "constant absence of change" that's possible only because you're constantly changing locations--the disorientation that would disappear if you remain in one place to experience seasons. I, too, felt that seeming contradiction. Hearing that you have a place with family connection gave me relief, because I don't have that, except maybe in another country where I don't quite belong. Since staying put for the past year, I've slowly adjusted and more recently have been finding comfort in a sense of stillness that previously would have unsettled me. Thanks for sharing this chapter of your journey, and I hope you'll continue to build that balance for yourself.
You are so precious and blessed to live the life you are living. You have a gift like no other to capture and see amazing things I can only see through the video's. Christian, you were born for THIS. Settling down? Naw too boring and look what you would miss. The special moments will overcome the bad ones. Thank you for sharing your journey ❤
Thanks for the love 🥹❤️
Regardless which direction you choose (van life or homesteading), your tone/mood photography is gorgeous. I hope you find the happiness you desire.
Thank you 🙏🏻