Todays story is one of empowerment, resilience and the joy of answering the call to freedom. I want to regale you with the whimsical chronicles of my journey as a woman over 50, fearlessly navigating the highways and byways as a solo female van lifer. Buckle up and join me on this rollercoaster of self-discovery, freedom, and the uncharted beauty of life on the open road. I have only just begun...
As the calendar flipped its pages and I found myself on the cusp of the golden age of 50, an unrelenting wanderlust whispered sweet nothings into my soul. The monotony of everyday life seemed to be a distant drumbeat drowned out by the allure of the open road. And so, armed with nothing but a dream and the courage to seize it, I embraced the idea of van life. There's an undeniable magic in the solitary dance of the road. With no co-pilot (other than my trusted companion, Mikee my snowshoe cat) and the wind in my hair and the GPS as my trusty guide, I ventured forth into the vast unknown. Solo van life is not just a lifestyle; it's a declaration of independence, a celebration of solitude, and an affirmation of the strength that comes with age.
Amidst the hum of the engine and the vastness of the landscapes, I discovered a newfound appreciation for solitude. The solitude wasn't loneliness but a canvas for self-discovery. It allowed me to peel back the layers of societal expectations and embrace the authentic me—the woman who craved adventure, craved solitude, and craved connection with the world in its rawest form.
Finding Comfort in Uncomfortable Spaces ~
Living in a van, I discovered the art of minimalism. Downsizing wasn't just a practical necessity; it was a liberation from the shackles of materialism. From the cozy crannies to the compact kitchenette, my van became a testament to the idea that less truly is more. And as I navigated the challenges of cramped quarters with a sense of humor, I found that happiness doesn't reside in square footage, but rather in our sense of adventure. Navigating the roads alone brought challenges, but each challenge was a stepping stone to empowerment. From mastering the art of setting up camp in remote locations to fixing minor mechanical hiccups, I learned that resilience and adaptability are not bound by age. Instead, they blossom when nurtured by the willingness to learn and the courage to face the unknown.
As the sun sets on the horizon and paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, I find solace in the simplicity of the van life. The stripped-down lifestyle magnifies what truly matters—the freedom to explore, the joy of connection, and the peace that comes with embracing the present moment.
Wisdom on Wheels ~
Being over 50 doesn't mean slowing down; it means revving up the engine of wisdom. Every sunset witnessed from the rearview mirror and every sunrise greeted with a cup of hot coffe brought a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty that comes with age. The road, like life, is a journey of continual learning, and my van became the classroom on wheels. As the miles rolled by and the horizon continued to beckon, I realized that this journey was not just about the destinations but the evolution of self. Van life at 50+ was not an escape; it was a revelation. It was a testament to the fact that age is just a number, and the road, with all its twists and turns, is the grand equalizer.
The decision to embrace van life wasn't merely about escaping the routine; it was a bold declaration of independence. In a world that often tries to confine women to predefined roles, I found my strength in steering my own destiny, quite literally. To women who may hesitate to embark on a similar journey, I extend an invitation to break free from the shackles of fear and societal expectations. Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone, and the open road beckons as a companion on the journey to self-discovery.
In being a solo female van life woman over 50, I've discovered that age doesn't limit our capacity for adventure; it enriches it. The road ahead is paved with endless possibilities, and the van, my trusted companion, is a vessel for the stories yet to unfold. So, let's embrace the open road, defy expectations, and revel in the freedom that comes with being authentically, unapologetically ourselves.
Reflection ~
As I reflect on my journey as a solo female van life enthusiast, I'm reminded that age is just a number when it comes to chasing dreams. At 49, I embarked on an adventure that would redefine my perception of freedom and rediscover the essence of life on the open road. So, dear reader, if you find yourself at a crossroads, contemplating the allure of the open road, remember this tale of a woman over 50 who embraced the vanishing act into the horizon and reappeared as the author of her own adventure. The road awaits, and it's never too late to answer its call. Safe travels, fellow solo female wanderers!
4 comments
Hi Maine, You just do it! I decided one day this is what I wanted to do and within 6 weeks I had my van and was headed across the country to convert it. It’s all about going after your dreams and making them happen, and not second guessing yourself. You can make it happen!
That’s the Life I want to have. How do you get started with the whole thing?
thank you so much Pamela!
Beautiful story!