Our Year-Long Sailing Adventure: A Journey of Patience and Adaptation

The Unexpected Delay

When we set the date to begin our year-long sailing adventure, we pictured ourselves by now on the deck of Good Soul, basking in Caribbean sunshine with salt spray on our faces. Instead, we’re still in Calgary—surrounded by suitcases, held up in a hotel (despite lots of offers - thank you all!!) and wondering how we ended up here. Of all the things we have worried about that could go wrong, this was not even on our radar.

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity. We said goodbye to our home in Strathmore and moved into Stephen's parents' house. There, we have been packing and unpacking, trying to figure out the logistics of bringing all our stuff to Grenada. We spent time with friends and family, soaking up the local spirit at the Strathmore Stampede. It was the perfect send-off—laughter, rodeo dust, and heartfelt hugs from the people who have supported us in this wild dream.

The Air Canada Strike

Then came the unexpected twist: the Air Canada strike. Our flight was cancelled, our carefully laid plans stalled, and suddenly our “bon voyage” became “not so fast.” We even ended up on the news, sharing our story about how the strike has thrown a wrench into our plans. Who knew that packing up your life and moving onto a sailboat would come with a headline?

Now, our house is sold, and everything we own is boxed up. We are waiting and hoping that our new flight leaves on Sunday as planned. We are fortunate enough to have travel insurance and are not stuck somewhere far from home like so many others. It’s a strange in-between feeling: the adventure has already begun in spirit, but logistically, we’re still waiting on a departure gate that doesn’t exist.

https://globalnews.ca/news/11336894/air-canada-strike-strathmore-couple-vacation-plans-threatened/

Embracing the Journey

So, why are we still in Canada? Because sometimes life throws curveballs that you can’t plan for. But if this journey is about anything, it’s about learning to adapt, stay patient, and keep moving forward—even if forward looks a little different than we expected.

For now, we’re grateful for the extra time with family, the support of friends, and the chance to remind ourselves that this trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. And our journey, it seems, has a few extra Canadian detours built in.

The Importance of Patience

Patience is a virtue, especially during times of uncertainty. As we wait for our flight, we are reminded of the importance of taking things one day at a time. Each moment spent with family and friends is a precious gift. It allows us to reflect on our journey and appreciate the little things we often take for granted.

Finding Joy in the Unexpected

While we may not be sailing just yet, we are learning to find joy in the unexpected. Whether it's sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying the beauty of our surroundings, these moments are what truly matter. They remind us that life is not just about reaching a destination, but about the experiences we gather along the way.

Preparing for the Adventure Ahead

As we prepare for our adventure, we are also taking the time to plan for the future. We are researching the best sailing routes, learning about the culture of Grenada, and gathering tips from seasoned sailors. This preparation is essential for a successful journey. It ensures that we are ready for whatever challenges may come our way.

Building a Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the connections we have made. From fellow travelers to local residents, each interaction enriches our experience. We are excited to continue building a community as we set sail. The friendships we forge will be invaluable as we navigate the waters ahead.

The Call of the Sea

The ocean has always called to us. Its vastness and beauty are captivating. We look forward to feeling the wind in our sails and the sun on our faces. The anticipation of exploring new horizons fuels our excitement. We know that once we finally set sail, it will be worth the wait.

Conclusion: The Journey Continues

Stay tuned, Good Souls, our boat is still waiting for us, and we’ll get there soon. This journey is just beginning, and we are ready for all that lies ahead. We may be grounded for now, but our spirits are high. The adventure awaits, and we are eager to embrace it.