Van Life

Unlike so many others in the USA we have had a mild winter so far due to the locations our travels have taken us. For that we are grateful as our van accommodations, augmented by gracious hosts for plumbing needs, have proven to not only be adequate, but quite comfortable. Due to this we have decided to not make any further modifications to the vehicle and hope to convert it into a usable vehicle for a future small business idea.

We essentially have a mobile bedroom/couch, a full outdoor kitchen, spare bedroom (if needed and weather permitting) and a home office in this living space. If the weather is too cold or too hot we have access to heat and air conditioning. We have wonderful large windows if the weather permits them being open. Researching options for our trip and ministry lifestyle we decided on the van and I can say that this is proving to be a very good option for cost, parking and functionality.

Curiosity is probably the most common reaction to the lifestyle choice we have chosen for this season of our life. Our decision to live in a van and travel to be the hands and feet of Christ would not be a doable option for many people and others perhaps wish they could be in our shoes. What I will say is don't be afraid to follow the desires of your heart if they are rooted in love.  You will not be disappointed in the outcome.

Having traveled thousands of miles, seeing deserts, forests, oceans, and valleys I am grateful for the sheer beauty our travels have brought to our little family of three. We watched in delight as our dog ran full speed by the ocean leaping for joy and being fully alive and fully a dog! It was beautiful. The smells, the sights, the colors, and the people fill my mind with wonder and love.

Leaving behind a regimented lifestyle dictated by work schedules, although it may be brief, has had the added benefit of time to work on our marriage, to dig out the deep roots you don't even realize are present because they are buried so deeply in the soil. Turning soil that hasn't been turned for so many years, raising a family requires stable roots, feels painful at times, but turning and aerating the soil brings about the possibility of growth and we are experiencing a newness as a couple that is refreshing and lovely.

Unexpected Moments

Setting out to be of service and to put our hands to work we have enjoyed  wonder in different unexpected moments.

Surprising our grandson for his 4th Birthday gathering was a delight. Having that sweet boy run full speed to hug grandma and grandpa upon spotting us lives on in my heart. Stopping for the party gave us bonus time with our other grandchildren and children too; which is always a good time of good food, laughter, and play.

We spent some time over in the area damaged by the recent Thomas Fire. Seeing how close the fire came to our son's home and place of work we were grateful that he was not displaced and prayed for those that were directly impacted. It was the largest wildfire in modern California history.


The central coast area and Oregon brought time with dear childhood friends revisiting many decades of life. It was pure joy to spend time with loved ones from so long ago and to hear and share the stories left untold for so long.

Traveling from the central coast area of California to Oregon we made a stop to meet new family members, nieces and nephews, replacing faces and personalities for their given names we had been told at the time of their births . It was nice to be able to hug and play with the youngest members of my ever blessed and growing family. The hospitality was unmatched while we were guests and my young sister is just as precious as ever, but now a wonderful busy mom.