The day Anna became my home

The past two days felt like the real beginning of life with Anna. Not just owning a campervan, but actually living in her and sleeping there. Driving onto the ferry together with Tessa and Mr. Grey, I realized that this new life had officially begun.

I left the Airbnb I had been staying in early in the morning, still sleepy and a little nervous, carrying way too much stuff. Pet beds, food bowls, my laptop… it honestly felt a bit like moving house again. But once I drove onto the ferry to Texada Island and parked Anna between the other vehicles, I suddenly felt calm, excited, and very happy.

Texada turned out to be exactly what I needed. I had lived there for three years before ending my relationship and staying in Airbnbs for a while. Friends were excited to see my new home, people offered places where I could park my campervan if I ever needed somewhere to stay, and at the grocery store someone suddenly gave me a hug. The warmth and kindness of the community really touched me.

In the evening, I led our women’s circle in the yurt, almost as if I had never been away. Everything felt familiar and safe. We talked about the power of love, and we all felt it. It was beautiful and real. Later that night, I made my bed inside the van with my own duvet and pillows. I sat there quietly, listening to the calm breathing of my 18-year-old cat Mr. Grey and my 6-year-old dog Tessa.

Of course, vanlife is not all dreamy sunsets and freedom. The first night was actually very uncomfortable. My hip hurt because the mattress was too thin, and at 2 am Mr. Grey suddenly decided he wanted food and loudly announced this, waking up both Tessa and me.

I also discovered a leaking faucet and, when it started raining, a leaking skylight. I quickly realized that living in such a small space means constantly adapting and figuring things out as you go. Even something simple like picking up groceries now means driving a 25-foot campervan into town, finding parking spots, and navigating tiny roads I used to drive in a little Toyota Yaris.

At the same time, this new life also has lots of advantages. Tomorrow I’m picking up a brand-new mattress for Anna, and for once I don’t have to worry whether it will fit in my vehicle.

Somehow, even the challenges don’t feel discouraging at all. They simply feel like part of this new adventure. And honestly? I can’t wait to experience all the beautiful, messy, surprising parts of vanlife! To be continued… 🌼🚐