Since surviving a stroke and a heart attack three and a half years ago, it became abundantly clear to me that the most valuable possession I can embrace is the time I have left on this planet. I have since quit my job, and have gone back to teaching guitar lessons. At 59 years of age, I still struggle with bills and the painfully slow processing of loss and letting go of my past. I am so very grateful to have my time, my peace and my purpose in life back in my control again. Nothing is more valuable than the time we have left to breathe.

You are wise way beyond your years some never learn what you already know. Stop and smell the coffee. And as you so aptly put it "we all need to learn how to productively waste time" to not miss all the important things occurring in our life journey.

Wow, Rio looks great in a hat. I love that you are so connected to her that you sense her unease with a specific camp site. That is what love is really all about. Thanks for sharing Alyssa!

After suffering a heart attack two years ago I ve learnt that fulfilment and purpose is found in the simplest things of life, things such as watching a sunrise in the midst of the mountains and spending time alone in the woods yes, brings about joy and peace. At 59 I ve gone back to the basics, becoming an ESL teacher, being aware that this is a difficult road, at least at the begining, having just to ends meet but enjoying the simplicity of life has made me realize that it is much better to spend time on this world this way, beautiful video Lyss, thank you for taking the time to share it.

Alyssa, please count us, your wider community, as those who are here to support and carry you through loss and grief and hardship. We’re here, we care. I’m sure you know, you’re truly not alone.

Perfectly said if the dog is unsettled you should take notice ❤️

Many years ago, I spent a delightful afternoon with Alan Watts is Sausalito, listened to numerous radio talks and have read many of his books. His philosophy enhanced my life immensely. Continue to follow him, and you can't go wrong!

It really is the simple, small things in life that make up the majority of life that we treasure (95%). The French say… “Ce sont les petites choses de la vie.” The thing that seems to happen to most people is that it becomes “normal” … “mundane” … everyday life, and we start taking it for granted, as it blurs into the background of life. But if you are conscious of your thoughts, awakened, you will see it. Lyss, you have seen it. You’re awake now. Unfortunately, many of us won’t see these things until they are taken away by things or situations outside of our control… the ability to be able to hike in the woods or even simply to walk… the ability to see a sunrise or see anything at all… the ability to tell someone you love them or to even utter a sound. This life is VERY short. There is no time to waste. Grab as much life, love, and laughter as you can… while you can. Resist the forces that drag you back "to the world." Stay childlike. Wander if you can. Stay in awe of the places and people around you. And love. Always Love. Stay in the Track of Love. Til next time... ✌🤍

Insanely powerful video. In roughly 10 months I will be taking my wife and two children on the road full time with a very low budget. It must be done. We all want it before we can’t. My children deserve to see how amazing everyone can be elsewhere. The sights to see and not spend thousands on a mainstream vacation. I would love to hear some honest input on this matter.

wow you are such a beautiful person. your physical features are absolutely gorgeous but also your mind, your outlook, your demeanor. I am so glad i found your channel. I love your outlook on life. Thank you, i really needed this at this time in my life. I've been questioning so much and i am relating to you in so many ways. Its almost like i was meant to find this content when i did.

To be one with nature, I think is one of the most rewarding feelings one can have.

Perfect peace once again. So beautiful, so free. I agree, letting go of all expectations...Your freedom is meaningful to many, beautiful soul.. love watching your journey..

OMG🥰 Rio with the flower🌼 on her head and then stole my 💗 with the straw hat on...the looks she gives and her eyes 👀... what a beautiful 🐶. The storyline was amazing! So true.😘

Rio is such a great doggo. I wish I could scratch her belly and tickle her paws. You've got a great companion.

Love your philosophy about wasting time. It is a great way to get in touch with ourselves and truly understand what life is about. The fact that it has a negative connotation in our society is a shame and why we tend to spend our lives with blinders on.

Wow love that your dog is such a protector and alerts you to any warning sign for danger. Love the beautiful scenery too.

Every time I watch one of your videos once it ends I always feel so inspired to do the things that I've been putting off for way too long. Wishing you two nothing but the best and safe travels

3:05 To share that moment with someone you really love, that would be the top... Another great video, thanks!

Wow you truly are a beautiful soul, beautiful person, that one shot that really showed how beautiful your eyes are, as well as how beautiful you are. Love your story. That shot with your fur baby wearing the hat lol. The look on her face was Priceless... You had extremely beautiful breath taking scenery. Stay Safe. Love and prayers..

YES. YES. YES. 1000% Let´s keep day dreaming and doing a bit of planning!

You have the courage of a warrior & a heart of pure gold Wishing you safe travles Listen to your heart it knows right from wrong let it guide you always

As we indulge in our life we always need to step back and see that we are going the right direction and make the right decisions that’s best for us. As we grow an our spirits awaken we begin to think that we as a person are able to take in the wonderful environment able to see the wilderness of Mother Nature our lifes are what we make them rather it’s happy sad or just blah we get to make that decision to better our life and make great choices

Wasting time is being productive internally. Where it matters most. Beautiful video. Wise words. Joyful seeing Rio wasting time and being her productive self.

Thank you for letting me live vicariously thru you. I used to do that a lot since I moved back to the greater Teton area and I'm frothing at the bit to go back deep into the mountains here where the tourists don't know anything about. To sum it up I lost my girlfriend here and I just found out today that a buddy of mine died in April...he wasn't answering my texts.... I've had some personal setbacks in the last couple of years, although I started a new career, which is a plus but haven't been able to get to go in the mountains in around seven years.... I know a lot of the areas you go. its nice to relive some of those moments. I hope things continue to go as expected for you. Thanks for letting me tag along...It helps soooo much.

That dog,, Rio - lived on the street. She has really good instincts - and it is so interesting to look at her - because the dog absolutely has some wisdom. Wow. This channel kicks butt Thank you.

5:20 Traveling with Baby Yoda 😁 Thank you for taking us along on this beautiful drive! I always feel more relaxed and refreshed after a full-screen session of your cinematic inspiration.

You're such a talented writer. A voice that needs to be heard.

Great advice!! sorry to hear about your friends doggie so tough to lose our pets. They are our family our best bud or buds. Colorado is so beautiful serene and peaceful where you are camping. There is nothing better than going into the forest to lose our mind and find our inner self it’s always been therapeutic for me to do just that and my soul longs for it so I try to do it as much as I can. The transition from dark to the morning sunrise and scenery so pretty and my favorite time of day is when that transition happens and the beautiful sun rises!! Rio so special and such a beauty love her eyes she’s just adorable our pets are a reflection of their owner ✌️🌼

2:25 - Hallet’s Peak, front range in the Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park? Took a ranger-led glacier hike one year along that range, and included that peak, sliding down a glacier, alpine meadows, lightning and rain. It was an adventure I cannot forget.

As always, beautifully said, my friend! Safe and joyful travels to you, always. Thank you for sharing your emotions and beautiful words of wisdom. You are treasured.

Lyss, great video! I'm glad you acted on Rio's signals. Those uneasy feelings come for a reason. Stay safe and thanks for sharing!

A beautiful and insightful video, we would all be so fortunate to have more people like you on this earth. Great job and be safe on your journey!

I love how you have such thoughtful input from so many influences keep on going because your actually letting some of us live vicariously through you and that’s the only option we have for now and it is so inspiring

Needed this video today. Thank you beautiful woman. Exactly what I needed to watch today. I got a good cry and feel better. Thank you 🌻🦋

There is always more to life. Doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results is sitting static. Everything changes, nothing stays the same. That is what makes progress happen. I've been an archer, a warrior, a philosopher, a sailor, an explorer, a fighter, an electronics instructor, a contractor and now a desert off road runner. Retired 22 years from the United States Navy. Worked for ITT Aero Space Facility, and a Gas Turbine Fuel and Fluids company as a Director. I've been in War Zones, Western Pacific, United Arabic Emirates, Taiwan, Korea, Hong Kong, Tai Land and many other countries. I've served in three wars and been over seas on six tours of duty six months each. I've hiked the front range of the eastern rocky mountain's and walked among wild herds of Deer. I've lived in San Diego California, Bremerton Washington, Colorado Springs, and now Arizona. I've studied several religions, the Cosmos, Greek and American History and I am still learning about life and myself. Regretlyss, you have only just started your excursion to find out who you are. I only write to you to let you know I understand that you are feeling out different paths and ideas to see what you want to take with you to help you shape who you will become, and that, I believe, is good. Stay safe spirit voyager.

I just started watching your videos. I wanted to say that I hope I can find that peace that you found within myself. It is so hard now a days to enjoy the little things in life.

Hi, I'm new to your channel! My real name is Jordan. I absolutely love your videos!! Rio is such a great dog!! Your a remarkable, beautiful young woman!!! Your bus. I love your bus ☺❤

you keep reading/watching and quoting brother Watts. As you've grown in your craft, you're demonstrating he's not the monopolizer of said "common" sense. I'm continually amazed by your telling insights and personal development at such an early age. I wish I were half as self-aware before my 30th. Cheers! ron:)

Smart to pay attention to your dog’s feelings. I like your ideas about “time wasters” - who says, right?!

Nice to see ya! Good luck on all your travels and stay safe!

Hi Alyssa, Rio 🐾wish you all the best always, stay safe and take care my friends 🙏 ✌️

Your art is wonderful, your soul being fed what is truly necessary. No time is wasted, just spent. I've been inspired, aloneness looked like loneliness until I heard you talk about it.

Well said Lyssa , I need to waste more time. I am in the sandwich generation as my wife and I take care of my mother in law, sick grandkids from time to time and a daughter with epilepsy. My wife and I love to hike in the mountains. We hope we can get there soon to waste more time. Meanwhile, I am grateful for your video!

many of your videos always bring calm to my soul (and these days I need a lot of that) with all the beautiful nature scenery in the background. At this time in my life, it's almost impossible for me to travel (for personal circumstances) and so I get to see our beautiful nation through your travels. Thank you for providing these peaceful moments. Safe travels to you and little Rio . . peace

I've only just started following you this past week and have seen a hand full of videos. This one by far has the best most beautiful scenery...the waters, the mountains, the trees...all of it.

good call on listening to your dog. Never look the other way: they know stuff when we are oblivious in remote arias.

wasting time intentionally is, creating time for life to flow through you… ☠️❤️

Another nice update. It's inspiring to see you - so young - out there living your life and growing. Most of us followed the script we were told we must follow. Good for you for creating your own path of adventure and learning. 👍

Love it!! Awesome videos and after some life changes that went through little over a year ago I also started spending more doing that exact thing. So refreshing and relaxing.

Alyssa, your videos are always thought provoking and well done! It takes a lot of courage to choose the path you have chosen and I really appreciate you sharing with the world. Wasting time is all a matter of perspective and you have the right one! Looking forward to watching your videos in the future…

Thank you for sharing. You are right to follow your dogs lead. I was walking my dog years ago when he suddenly went in front of me and just sat down. As I was trying to figure out if he was alright I suddenly saw a person in the shadows. I looked at my dog and said are you feeling tired? Lets go home. I kept looking over my shoulder until we reached a well lighted shopping center. I think I have mentioned in the past that I hope you have methods to defend yourself as well as having your dog. Stay safe, stay healthy and keep living your dreams

It’s incredible your poetic words of wisdom. You have such grace! I really appreciate your artistic videos, it’s like flipping through a magical book, spiritually, physically and emotionally! You grab the raw in life and it’s so beautiful to see! You are such an angel. Thank you for being truly you, much love to you and Rio!

Hi LYSS, traveling by car is very pleasant by your side, enjoying RIO and experiencing this wonderful landscape, mountains and valleys... I am delighted.

Well it boils to one thing EVEN THE MIGHTY HAS TO EAT. With that in mind I guess having a great and peaceful time going and enjoying the views is okey and you could forage around for food to cook till you can that is super! No complain on that. Enjoy life. Even old ships has to dock and be scittled in port!

Oh and Rio looks like the greatest travel companion ever! The rocky mountains are the best. You have the perfect setting, and a great friend! Enjoy!

Hey Lyss I just want you to know your videos are truly soul food and your voice is so soothing and your journey and each video makes me feel so refreshed, nourished and alive! I love how you have made such a meaningful home on the road and actually your other bus Lucky was literally the most awesome schoolie, your current bus is pretty special too!! Thanks for providing nourishing and truely meaningful content ❤️ God Bless!!

What a poignant piece of art this video is. Thank you so much for sharing all of it with us. It really touched my heart. I was on the road as a nomad for a very long time and then I became disabled and I still live in my motorhome. Now I'm parked with water and electricity at my mechanics lot. I'm so glad to be off the road after so long, I'm two blocks from the ocean and although I grieve all the things I used to be able to do, seeing a video like this is a very special reminder of how simple the blessings can be. I love your scruffy dog.

I love the artistic way that you tell the story. It makes it impossible to click off because I want to see what will happen next. You are a great storyteller and a great editor.

Thank you for your stories and allowing us to watch you along your trip.

Takeaway for me was that just because something might be deemed “unproductive” doesn’t mean that it’s a bad thing. In fact, it’s those very unproductive activities that allow us to slow down and recenter ourselves so that we can enjoy life on a higher level. Awesome video Lyss.

Omg...I was watching Rio walk out of the truck when you arrived and she was looking at the water...I knew you were going to say something about her being uneasy....You are a good dog mama!

Watched this vlog today...your words on time and wasting it, they were the words that I needed to hear. To just let life flow through you and not to feel guilty for taking time to just breathe. I was feeling anxious for not completing a never ending list of tasks. When all in all, I took time out, watched this vlog, walked my dogs, listened to the birds, the wind, the smell of the sea and life felt powerful, vibrant and I felt at peace. Thank you x

I was having such a hard day feeling loneliness, I think It's the Best for me right now but sometimes it feels hard. But after I found Your channel the perspective has change completely, You inspire me so much to enjoy My own company and feel real peace. Thanks for your wise words and your authenticity. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Your video production is outstanding. Your commentary is expanding, breathless, and awe inspiring. Your music additions are flawless, and emotion connecting. The way you put your presentation together just flows, and I can feel your experience as you speak your truth in the moment. Thank you for sharing such real life Timelessness.

Sendin Love ❤ Wisdom shared is multiplied thank you. I've been listening to Alan Watts also , very very insightful man. Wishing you and Rio continued safe journey. Watching your videos make my heart sing.

Love this video, I feel like it's your best yet. Your smart to listen to your fur baby. I listen to mine all the time. Your words and insight are so right on in making the choice to waist time to find yourself. Im working on getting my bus so I can purposely learn to be ok with wasting time to find myself again as well. Your vlog just gave me more encouragement to take my 62 year young a.... and get out there so my dream doesn't die before my journey hear on earth is done. Sending vibes of Blessings and Love for safety, adventures and continued time waistin on purpose.

To seek truth for yourself, rather than accepting someone else's ( usually self interested ) declarations...is both brave and needed. I love the person you are...and are becoming.

You are a very uplifting person. Thank you for sharing your journey.

Another amazing video Lyss they are so warm and relaxing and I would like to thank you for sharing your and Rio's journey.

Wow! Well thought out and great story telling. Keep the fire burning and hold on to the feeling. Beautiful soul!

This one hit deep. After having lost both of my aged parents 2013 and 2019, I've learned to appreciate the small things. I'm learning to savor life. I'll be 61 in August. I still feel (and act) like I'm 20 in so many ways. Never "grow up"... it's a cruel trick. All that matters for me now are simpler pleasures of reading, writing, books, creating, coffee and tacos. Like Dave Garski, I too struggle with making ends meet sometimes, but I make miracles with rice, beans, tortillas, and veggies... Coffee I don't skimp on though LOL! Your videos really are such a respite for me. Thank You.

Thank you for sharing your inner thoughts and concerns...

I’m so fortunate to have found you on KZfaq!!! I’m binge watching your episodes as a motivator to get off my dead ass and begin to live as you do. I have loads to do but I’m inspired by you. As the saying goes, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. God bless and safe travels!

Great video Lyss! Glad you were able to finish your video. The way I see it is you are investing your time.

The mountains are beautiful 😍. Your little Rio is so cute. Be safe ❤️✌🏻

Love watching your exploration of life! Thank you sunshine.

You're so special, just know how valuable you are to others and to everyone around you. I write to you from western Colorado today, the day I spent trying to lift others up around me when they were feeling down, only to come home as my neighbor was transported to the hospital. You remind all of us how fragile life can be, all of us are after all just spiritual beings having an Earthly experience. Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us, as we work, play, and share in our lives together. May all your journeys be safe, and may blessing of protection cover you, and your family and friends.

"Waste more time" Agree heartedly. The bigger problems will always be there, why not enjoy the moment when you can.

Hi I love your videos and your attitude in this crazy thing called life…and I just realized I think we have the same style of hat..I picked mine up at tractor supply store a couple days ago..safe travels my prayers are with you 🙏👍🤠

Nothing compares to sunrise and sunset. I love watching them

Your videos are always like a breath of fresh air. You are wise beyond your years. I take great solace in your thoughts and you always calm my troubled soul. I thank you.

Lyss, Started watching your journey just recently. I am captivated by your courage and drive to explore and reflect on all that you encounter on your path of discovery. As I listen to you reflect, I feel blessed by your sharing your insights. I’m on the other end of the age spectrum (early 60’s). Enjoying the moment is my mantra now. Wish I understood that when I was your age! Your channel is a blessing to others! Thanks!

You are such a beautiful soul...and this video was wonderful. Love watching you and Rio!! God bless you

Not only am I Inspired…. But in complete awe at the courage you have to actually live your life the way most of us only dream. You truly are a breath of fresh air. Thank you for your narrative and opening up your heart to us. It’s well received and appreciated.

Thank you for your wonderful and beautiful message Alyssa. You are not wasting time at all when you are living consciously in the now, and fully enjoying the present moment.

Can't wait for another episode always amazing scenery and stories! Don't know where you are now, but on your journey to the WY gathering you should spend some time in the North Park area of CO around Walden. Lots of good camp spots and lots of moose.

You're truly inspiring.. Beautiful lady inside and out. Very poetic and pass on some great words of wisdom from some of the greatest spiritual minds who I also follow... Great video and don't stress about videos what's important is that you're living for you and finding that inner peace. If we are able to follow that journey great but if you miss some footage as much as it's annoying for you, it doesn't affect the overall positive impact your videos have on your subscribers and also the positive messages you convey also the vulnerability and life's ups and downs which keep it real! All the best from London England 👍❤️😎🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Excellent video I loved how you put about being alive and wasting time, a beautiful way to ground and balance one's life.

This is SO TRUE! In 2020, I was blessed with 3 months at my dad's house in Indiana. I had planned to stay 6 weeks, until my birthday, then trek cross-country to Boulder to be near my daughters. I spent so much time resisting presence and pined for my destination...but it wasn't going anywhere. I had lots of downtime and also quality time with dad. As it turned out, those precious three months would be our last together. He died 11 months after I got to my destination. I'm so thankful my 6-week plan turned into 3 months...sometimes there's a reason why. Don't resist, just be. We are human BEings not DOings! Namaste.

I really needed this. Your interpretations are a smash on the reset button when the value of daily pursuits gets hijacked by "productivity". Your diaries are profound and inspiring. And Rio looks legendary in that hat 😄

Great job. You find some very amazing spots. Looks like the snow is melting fast. Time for another adventure. ✌️🌹

How wholesome. I was never a big fan of the great outdoors. But your journey reminds me of how much my father loved going to his land with his dog. And I remember the times I went with him as a child. Never appreciating that valuable time then that now holds dear to my heart. Makes me happy that maybe he was able to enjoy the simple things in life as you have. RIP dad. Love you and miss you. Thanks for your videos. I really appreciate your thoughtfulness and narrative style.

Alyssa, I always enjoy your videos and appreciate you sharing your thoughts and musings. Beautiful scenery in this video and I think you are a beautiful person. God bless you and keep you safe and healthy 🙏💖

The words you spoke from 8,01 hit like an avalanche. Thank you for that awakening. Waisting time - what a perfect quote. I will continue my nomad life. I have so muck to learn from younger people around the world and stop chasing some else dream.

Astonishing scenery 👌 love your story‼️❤

Beautiful! But I'm always relieved when you and Rio are back in the van, I feel as if I can breath again. Stay safe lovely lady.

New subscriber. Just stumbled across your channel. It’s amazing to me to find someone so young that gets it. What you have figured out is how we are meant to live. We are socially engineered and programmed to consume. That is NOT what it’s all about. I to find my most joyous moments when I’m simply laying in bed listening to music just contemplating or playing guitar. Watching nature can teach us all a lot. Spread your energy and maybe there will be hope for society. Love your dog by the way.

Wise beyond your years, Alyssa. I just started watching your channel last week, but you already feel like a good friend. I’ve lived alone for over twelve years now so I totally get the isolation and solitude. You’ve conquered a lot in a short time. Be proud. Be strong. Be safe. Cheers, Steve

Rio is a lucky and blessed dog!

Your words hit my heart and soul today. Thank you for sharing how vulnerable we can be and how to embrace it!