Freedom had never felt so good.
One year ago today, we jumped in the truck and drove the first kilometres of what was going to be an epic adventure. We were exhausted from weeks of packing, moving and emotional about leaving our family and friends behind. We had no idea how much this would change our lives.
Let’s back up. Patti and I have always enjoyed adventures, being spontaneous and continuously shaping meaning in our lives. We care deeply about others, live our values and are learning to accept that our passion is difficult to ignore.
When Covid gripped us all and changed our lives, Patti and I spent much time reflecting on our lives and what we like. I was in my fourth year as Mayor, and it was the realization that achieving positive change, reshaping culture, and navigating politics seemed impossible. I was exhausted.
We launched our North American tour on this day one year ago, and our first lesson presented itself. We had planned on leaving mid-morning, and a series of delays saw us roll out of Saint John at 3:30 pm. It was an important milestone for me to get on the road and start the clock.
Mission accomplished, we were on the road.
I studied youtube channels extensively, and we made several local trips to gain vital experience. We felt ready and, I think, had a game plan in terms of rolling with the challenges to our plans.
One of my most important reflections was how grateful we were for the freedom to take this trip and have many beautiful experiences.
2 countries, 147 cities, and 791 places, and we travelled 29,705 kilometres, which is 74% of the distance around the world. Which means Gus the super dog has to be one of the most travelled Saint John-based pups, right?
Reflecting on the freedom of travelling with loose timelines, stopping when you want, and the surprise of what comes around the next turn was inspiring and replenishing.
Each hour we drove down the road or sat and enjoyed our time off the road, I could feel my heart rate slowing, my mind clearing and my worries melting away.
We appreciate receiving so many comments, notes of encouragement and questions. We’re glad you enjoyed travelling with us and provided many excellent suggestions for us to check out.
If you want to test your relationship, lock yourself in a truck and RV together 24/7, and you’ll have your answer. I’m happy to report that we survived. It is a blessing to be married to someone who loves you, accepts you, believes in you, and supports your happiness. Thank you, Patti.
We saw beautiful places but also had very moving experiences. The great lakes, northern Ontario, have some RV trouble and had that happen in my dad’s birthplace. Driving slow on the pacific coast highway through Washington, Oregon, and California.
Getting up early in the morning to chase a sunrise in Sedona, Arizona and standing in tears as you realize how blessed and alive I felt. Seeing the Grand Canyon and learning that just because someone else enjoyed it doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it.
Meeting locals in New Orleans and witnessing the gaps in our society that, seventeen years later, the devastation of hurricane Katrina has still not been addressed.
Visiting Montgomery, Alabama and walking on the same streets as the civil rights champions and realizing the depth and devastation of the four-hundred-year journeys of black Americans (stolen from their homeland.) Realizing that we are privileged, the biggest insult would be not to use our privilege to help others.
Travelling through the South and North Carolina and reflecting on how nice and how much in common we have with our American friends. Yes, of course, there are problems, but if we let the wicked consume all of our time, we’ll miss the caring and empathetic right in front of us.
As the truck travelled toward the north, I noticed something in my mind and body. I was excited to come home and anxious about what it meant. It was recognition that this phase was over and resimulation to the city. We needed to find a place to live, get Patti moved into her new office, and adjust to life with less freedom.
There are so many other adventures, observations and experiences to share. I often thought that a gathering, some storytelling and a Q & A might be fun. Let me know in the comments if you would be interested.
Today was a day of great reflection. I’m most grateful for the time to decompress and reflect on what matters most to our family and me. We’re blessed and have challenges like any other couple or family, and we think about living a life without regret. Something that requires continuous work.
I know that life is fragile; it should be lived, and each day should be filled with passion, fulfilment and contentment. I also understand that the choices we make and our thoughts are potent. Are we looking for those aspects in our life, or do we already have them if we simply choose to change our focus?
Stay tuned for our next phase; however you describe your next big adventure, I would suggest one thing. Go for it.
