About

Chronic X-Roads was born in the summer of 2018 when I embarked on the project of a lifetime: a van build!

The name Chronic X-Roads stems from the notion that life is made of choices. I felt I was at a major crossroads in my life at the time and had some big decisions ahead of me.

Long story short, I realized that often fear is a main player when we are confronted with change and how we decide to proceed can set the stage for how we move through our lives in general. I didn’t want to let fear hold me back from attempting things. I began to see fear as an indicator, signalling when something just might be worth doing. In that moment I decided to buy a cargo van, which I would go on to convert into a campervan (a Chevy Express who I call Strider).

I have since become well acquainted with vanlife. From my first road trip in 2019 where I tackled the learning curve and adjustment to actually living in a van. I did vanlife on and off for a while. I drove across the country multiple times (Canada) and through the states. I did many small trips. And the pinnacle (so far) – a year full time.

I think vanlife was also a gateway for me to thru hiking – the adventurous headspace and the gall to do something ambitious. It was definitely part of me deepening my exploration of craft beer, as popping in to local breweries became a go to part of exploring destinations.

I began this blog as a way to document the process of the build. It was like a reference for me, where I could neatly document my research, the steps, materials, and my thought process behind decisions made. It would simply be a bonus if anyone else found the info useful or interesting. As time went on I decided to write about my travels and thru hikes. The blog became both informational and anecdotal, including storytelling, standout incidents from the road, and perhaps practical takeaways – at least I learned. Recently I’ve become such a beer nerd that I thought I might start writing about beer, too. I’ve been getting deeper into writing in general, so this is a good outlet and practice for me. Note: this blog is long form, I don’t skimp on details (for better and worse) so look to the table of contents or check out my Instagram if you want smaller blips of info!

A little about me: I grew up/live in Canada. I have a psychology degree. Two people who impacted me deeply when I was young were Kurt Cobain and Chris McCandless. My favourite day of the year is Halloween. My favourite places include Seattle, Joshua Tree, and Salem MA. I come alive when witnessing live music. I hate small talk. And I have recently gotten into gallows humour and dad jokes – what a time to be alive!

Life twists and turns and you gotta take it as it comes. I had to go quiet for a while. But I’m back. If you’re reading this, or have read anything that I’ve written – thanks for being here and spending any of your time with me! I’m not done documenting, and I’m not done with the van or thru hiking.

Whatever may come, one thing is for sure – I do not intend to have a near-life experience.

Welcome to my blog,

Kathleen

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