And So It Begins (Again)...

One year. Well, actually, 372 days. That’s how long I have, at a minimum, before I am back in my house. It sounds crazy, doesn’t it?

My first stop is New Zealand, where I will hang out for a month preparing for a 1,200 sailing passage to Fiji with my former sailing instructor. It will be my first yacht delivery, and first real blue water experience.. It will be a true test as to whether I can turn my sailing passion into a sailing career.

Packing up my house (and my bags) over the last couple of days was a mad dash. I was constantly running out to REI, West Marine, Best Buy, and Walgreens for last minute items I might need on my trip. I’m sure I’ve forgotten something, but the good news I’m going to Auckland, not a village on a remote island. I can buy whatever I forgot, especially if it’s sailing or outdoor gear.

I pride myself on being very clean and organized. At the beginning, there was logic to what belongings were going into my garage, my backyard shed, or my storage unit. And within each of those spaces, where exactly would the item go? How would it be wrapped? Well, in the last few hours this afternoon, I was just cramming stuff anywhere it would fit. It was messy, but it’s done.

I did a final walkthrough video of my house. A few big pieces of furniture remain – too big for my storage options. But all personal effects are gone. It was kind of sad to walk through the empty rooms and hallways. I had spent so much time making the house comfortable (for me), in particular hanging lots of pictures of my travels.

And then came the final moment of walking out and locking the door behind me. It was a weird feeling. Previously, I was renting my house to a friend, and only for 6 months. It felt more like he was housesitting for me, or just living as a guest. It didn’t seem as real as this time. Now it’s the real deal. I’m renting to a stranger (but he and his family are super nice), and it’s for a year with an option to go month-to-month after that.

So, this is it. I’m a homeless wanderer with a blank slate, looking forward to an exciting and adventurous year! Now, I have to go catch my flight!

Stay tuned!