This Coyote is one of the many epic photos Ive taken in the week I have been here.

After over three years of trials, tribulations, and two of the most grueling months of my life, I finally made it to winter camp—my “Bruncle” Jon Young’s house. I arrived about thirty minutes before my birthday ended, exhausted but deeply grateful to be with family who truly understood the weight of my journey. It felt surreal to step into a warm, welcoming space where I didn’t have to watch every dollar or ration every ounce of gear. They stayed up late to celebrate with me, sharing cake and food. Their presence reminded me why I’ve fought so hard to keep going despite my fatigue. I’ve craved this for so long: familiar faces and a moment to pause. But reaching this milestone has drained me on every level—mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially.
Along this journey, I’ve faced countless setbacks. Just this week, my phone service was cut off for two days, a jarring reminder of how fragile stability feels when living on the edge. I rely on my phone for everything, and this felt like another breaking point. But I reminded myself why I started, which kept me moving forward. As I've said many times, asking for help hurts me profoundly. And I accept responsibility for how woefully underprepared I was for all of this.

Now, I’m focused on getting through one more tough month financially. November is shaping up to be one of the hardest. Clearing my final bills, especially for my tent, will let me breathe easier. The tent, a crucial investment for my travels, came with a hefty price tag, which I managed to get for $1,700 wholesale, thanks to a shared mission. I’ve paid off about $600, but the remaining balance looms over me. If I can’t clear it in November, I’ll be stuck with a $300-a-month loan, impacting my ability to keep going. Handling these last bills will allow me to live on less, freeing up project resources.

This journey has forced me to confront my finances. I’ve started tracking every dollar—a humbling exercise. I found a $10 Skype membership that I had only used twice. It’s surprising how these small expenses add up, slowly draining resources. Tracking my spending has been empowering, a reminder that financial discipline is as crucial as honing my craft.

Now that I’m here, I’ll take a day to settle in and recharge, then dive back into work. My top priority is setting dates to finish last season’s online series. This season, they have pushed me to refine my methods as an educator. Next season’s classes will cover various topics, from survival skills to resilience. I’m excited to reconnect with my students, many of whom have been with me for years.

Reflecting on the move, I think about how different it could’ve been if I’d had the resources to rent a trailer. Moving all my gear simultaneously would’ve been faster and easier, but renting a trailer would’ve cost $5,000, not counting fuel. Mobility’s cost can feel like a natural barrier for someone living minimally and focusing on experiences.

I hope to shut down my GoFundMe soon. Financial stability is my ultimate goal, and each donation brings me closer. I’ll call my bank tomorrow to determine why my balance is negative. I'd be grateful if anyone could give me a birthday boost via Venmo. Every gesture of support reminds me that people believe in my actions and the positive change I'm trying to bring about.

With a clearer mind, I’m diving back into my work. I’ve resumed filming and plan a detailed tour of Rolling Turtle, my mobile home. Soon, I’ll give a full tour. I’m also creating a mini “nomad” podcast with an interactive camera feed to connect with supporters in real time.

Another meaningful project is preserving Tracker School memorabilia I’ve collected over the years. These items are part of a legacy that shaped me and countless others. I plan to digitize and share everything freely, archiving the physical items for future generations.

I’m grateful for the opportunities ahead. Soon, I’ll be able to focus on creating valuable content. Thank you to everyone who’s supported me. Your encouragement is a source of strength. As I settle into this chapter, I look forward to sharing more of my journey and planning new adventures next year.

I will also offer a monthly free webinar series called my "Nomad Free-cast,” starting on the 20th at 3 p.m. Pacific time. I will also resume the online programming I had to postpone due to my health and the prolonged nature of my move and get my schedule up for my next round of online classes with quite a few new offerings! Once again, thank you all for your support, thoughts, and prayers as I navigate the most treacherous time of my life. Your phone calls and messages have meant the world to me.

T3

Previous
Previous

The Final Push: Help Keep Rolling Turtle Moving!

Next
Next

I choose the road full of promises, and embrace the head full of doubt.