The Wallowas have been on my bucket list for years, but it’s a bit of a trek to get there so I always thought, “next time.” Well, finally, next time is here! I never get tired of the beginning of a trip, with the wide open road ahead of me and the excitement of not knowing what awaits me. Heading east through the Columbia River Gorge is especially satisfying, seeing the view change from rain forest to glacial cliffs to wide open desert.

The number one rule of van life – never pass up a chance to wash your hands! One of the things I love about traveling this way is how much it makes me appreciate ordinary things, like clean hands.

My first night destination is a hot springs! I always hit a hot springs if I can; I love a luxurious soak and the mineral smell of the water. This hot springs is part of a big RV park and non-RVs (like me) can camp on a little lane at the back along a small creek. This guy was my camping buddy!

Ahhhh. I love the wide-open sunset sky.