In the Beginning (March 5, 2010)

Last year was a year of incredible changes in my life. I started out 2009 with the two closest people in my life still with me--my parents. By the time the year was finished, they both had passed away. It was indeed a year of unexpected change. However, out of any adverse situation, I have always tried to find a silver lining, and this is no exception.

These past few months have proven to be a time of deep reflection for me, and a re-evaluation of the current trajectory of my life, and also of what is truly important to me. I have been given, through a modest inheritance, the unique opportunity now to be able to step out of my current career and life, take a break, and consider a change in direction. I know this is something my parents always wanted for me, and now I have the opportunity to use their legacy to build a new life for myself.

I have taken the first step in the journey to my new life; a step that both excites and frightens me at the same time. In the midst of a recession, I have resigned from my current job as a media producer for a non-profit organization based in Boston, Massachusetts, and am returning to British Columbia, Canada--the province where I grew up, and where my parents lived. My last day at work is March 31, 2010. I have been working for this same organization since 1999 in various capacities, and have grown tremendously both in my career, and as a person. It's time, however, for the next step.

This blog will be the story, both in pictures and in words, of my journey from Boston, Massachusetts to my new home near Kelowna, British Columbia--and some of my preparations in advance of this trip. It will be as much about my emotional and spiritual journey as it will be about the drive itself. Anyone interested in some slightly used furniture?

Since I have taken many road trips across the United States over the past several years, I have decided this time to drive primarily across my native country of Canada--something I have never done. Not only will this be my story, it will also be the story of the places and people I see on this trek across North America. I have heard it said often that the best way to see America is to get behind the wheel and drive through it and explore its back roads. I can attest to that first-hand. Charles Kurault definitely had it right. The same can also be said of Canada.

So, here I go!