The road has stopped moving. After months of mechanical setbacks and financial strain, Brian and Ruby face their hardest chapter yet. In this deeply personal post, they share the truth behind the breakdown — and a humble request for help to keep the dream of Open Road Nomad alive.

Life has a way of humbling you — and teaching you — all at once. After loss, failure, and a few unexpected detours, I’ve learned that starting over isn’t the end of the story; it’s just another chapter. This post is a reflection on finding wisdom through adversity, the quiet strength that comes from being stripped down to the essentials, and the simple truth that even when all we have left is hope — it’s enough to keep turning the pages.

After months of setbacks, the van finally roared back to life — a sound we’ve been waiting to hear for far too long. The rebuilt engine is running strong, but a stubborn emissions issue still stands between us and the open road. Here’s where the journey takes us next.

Oregon is waterfall country — where rivers carve deep canyons, mossy forests cradle hidden cascades, and every turn reveals another breathtaking view. From the fairytale magic of Proxy Falls to the thundering power of Salt Creek and the iconic beauty of Multnomah. Each stop offers history, adventure, and a glimpse into Oregon’s wild heart.