For my “landmark” birthday this year I decided to skip the exotic adventure and go on a reconnaissance trip to find my next home base. I had planned a two-week trip around Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I made connections and arranged to talk to various people, sourced out places to visit, and even found some volunteer activities in which to participate. I wanted to immerse myself into different communities to find where I felt comfortable. But after four days I flew back to Ontario.
Serendipitously, just before my departure, an opportunity plopped into my lap and I found myself re-arranging my travel route. Instead of taking the ferry across to Vancouver Island, I drove north towards Whistler and into the mountains. The first stop on my trip was a visit to a Wilderness Lodge and Heli Skiing operation.
The six-hour journey took me through many spectacular mountains, complete with switchbacks, ice fog, rock fall, wild horses on the roads and no cell phone coverage for the last 100km. Yes it was quite a courageous adventure and the lodge staff weren’t kidding when they told me to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. When finally I physically arrived at the lodge I felt like I had also emotionally arrived … home. I knew in an instant that this would be my next base camp. Everything was so naturally comfortable.
So I cut my trip short, apologized to new unmet friends and caught the next flight back to Ontario. I had business to take care of, a new vehicle to obtain and some packing to do. I found it curious how things could move so quickly, easily and effortlessly, almost like everything became synchronized. To me it was a sign that I was on the right track.
As I was starting to pack I stumbled upon one of my recent image boards and I had to smile when I noticed a number of familiar looking scenes; mountains, lodges, wildlife, rivers, lakes, and lots of trees. The saying “be careful what you wish for”, came to mind … my dreams certainly were coming true.
While I didn’t complete the whole reconnaissance trip, it really didn’t matter. I learned that by just moving in the general direction of my dreams, I generated an unexpected opportunity and now I would be enjoying a wonderful new life adventure. Up next step is a six-day drive to Gold Bridge, British Columbia – my new base camp.
I am so ready for this journey to begin!
February 15, 2011
Wow! You travel at the speed of light! So happy to see you reaching for the stars!
February 15, 2011
I hope that everyone takes the opportunity to look up at the stars and realize that they are really not that far away … thanks for the good wishes.
February 15, 2011
I am so happy for you. Sometimes the things in life that come quickly are the best, like love at first sight, or the deep warm- to- the- toes feeling that you are where you belong.
Even though you will be accross the country, I know you are only a blog page away.
Take care and know that I am cheering for you!!
February 15, 2011
Thanks Heather and know that I am cheering for you too!
February 15, 2011
I love how the Universe conspires to give us what we want, at the very moment we align ourselves with the idea of it.
February 15, 2011
Quite miraculous isn’t it?
February 15, 2011
Over the years … we have had so many conversations about our dreams and what we will do when we “grow up”. This has been your dream for so many years Carol. I am glad to see it come true for you! I wish you only the best … please stay in touch.
Warmest regards,
Rosemary
February 16, 2011
I hope I never “grow up” this is so much fun! Keep well – Carol
February 15, 2011
Carol,
Thanks for sharing your experience – sounds to me like destiny calling. How brave of you to respond in the way that you have. Shazam!
February 16, 2011
Really appreciate the acknowledgement Michael – thanks.
February 15, 2011
Well…you found it! So happy for you Couz! Will miss you on the Playa del Primas though.
Karen
February 16, 2011
Thanks for your support and who knows I just may find Montaines del Primas!
February 18, 2011
Congrats, Carol! I think this is perfect for you – you’ve linked your skills with where you want to live. You will be in a very beautiful, healthy part of the country, I can’t think of a better place to launch a new life. Congrats!
February 19, 2011
Thanks Val!
February 18, 2011
Carol….. this is so HUNGA_Munga of you… and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for the next installment of your incredible adventure. BTW, I have friends and contacts in UKIE. are you heading back to Vancouver Island???
xxbeth
February 19, 2011
Beth – thanks for the offer of contacts because I never know where the Universe is going to lead me next AND I have always wanted to life close to the Ocean! Hugs – Carol
February 21, 2011
Wow you don’t waste any time. Congratulations on arriving at one of the most beautiful areas in Canada. I’ve been to Whistler and what more can I say. Have fun and stay safe and remember things always happen for a reason. Love you lots and miss you.
Sue
February 21, 2011
Thanks for your support – miss you too!
February 22, 2011
Best of luck Carol, I always enjoy reading about your adventures. I hope you & your family are well. It’s good to be alive. I read all your e-mails & hope you will stay in touch. Have a very Happy Birthday.
February 22, 2011
Thanks for the well wishes!!