Do you remember that time I said I was going to ride across Canada….and then I did?

It took leaving the world of work for a couple of months, but taking care of myself means I’ll be a better leader upon my return.

I’ve been home a week now and I’ve just finished writing all my stories in my leather bound journal. I’m not sure when this one will hit my blog; it’s taken 7 days to finish my journaling!

If you’ve been following along, you know that I’ve dodged hurricanes, forest fires, gone through torrential down pours, heat waves, and waited for hours for the removal of a jack-knifed semi truck! I’ve made friends along the way, spent time with loved ones, and picked up a side case full of treasures. The real treasures, though, have been the ones that have taken permanent residence in my heart.

I’ve grown so much over the course of this 7 week adventure! I’ve returned to my self-confident, exuberant self. I’ve left my sorrows behind and have become resilient and peaceful. I’ve seen some beautiful things in our country; Canada’s vistas are as diverse as her people. Some of my favourites are:

I remember riding west into Regina as the sun rose up behind me. The daylight kissed the top of crops awaiting harvest in a magnificent array of golds and greens. I remember a roadside pond with its glass surface serving as a brilliant canvas for the reflection of the sun, the puffy white clouds and the azure blue sky.

I remember riding west into a a Saskatchewan valley into an explosion of fall colours popping amongst the evergreens. I had no idea the prairies held such beauty.

I remember the pretty roads, the century-old homes and exquisite churches throughout Quebec. Every kilometer revealed scenery more breathtaking than the last.

I remember the feeling of awe I had when I walked along the red beach in Prince Edward Island. This one was such a special moment.

I remember the beauty of the lakes at dawn in Ontario

I remember the laughter and joy with Donna et. al. in Moncton. I remember the laughter and friendship with Tanya in Quebec.

I remember the sand between my toes at Oka Lake.

I remember walking along the each near Yarmouth hunting for treasures.

I remember the moments in my helmet when I was so overwhelmed with gratitude that it spilled over my cheeks in salty streams of joy. Oh, so many moments!

I remember letting go in Biggar, Saskatchewan.

I remember feeling my son’s arms around me upon my arrival for his birthday.

I remember the moment my daughter’s eyes met my own and the unspoken acknowledgment that she is my ally.

I remember my daughter’s encouragement to take this trip and her unfaltering faith that her mom really could do this alone.

I remember riding down my driveway at the end of this epic journey to see Brian sitting on my front step waiting for me.

I remember how full my cup is. I am blessed beyond measure, and so grateful I could give myself this adventure.