1 year Move-Aversary
Move-Aversary. This is the first word that came to mind when I started thinking about writing this particular blog. What have I learned? What can I share to others who are looking to do the same thing? Has this really been a positive experience? Are there failure in pursuing a lifestyle like this?
This time last year I was in the final days of packing up my stuff, putting it in storage and heading out west to spend a month of vacation go hiking and gravel riding with friends. I had closed the sale on my condo for a few months earlier and my landlord was selling the next month. As excited as I was, I was also very nervous. It would seem that just putting belongings in storage should be simple, but I also had to plan to take stuff with me north of Quebec City and had to prepare to have my winter gear ready. All a while I have other belongings with friends who are able to use some valuable items and it’s to see it being used rather than sitting in a tin can.
It was more stressful than anticipated.
When I left, I didn’t really have a feeling that I would be returning to the area to stay for any long period of time. With Covid opening doors, it’s really overwhelming when you have so many options. People often say ‘You’re lucky’ to me, but really, this has very little to do with luck. It has more to do with taking chances, being open to change and being okay with loneliness and discomfort.
My time north of QC was great for mountain biking and hiking. I really LOVED the downhill tracks at Le Massif and exploring that area. I feel very grateful to be able to have that opportunity. I did learn being there that this is not the place for me long term. I felt more isolated and distant from energy and life. It’s great to be near nature and I love it, but with speaking only a little French and not having a lot of social life, I knew I needed a change.
Quebec City was the perfect option. My winter there was filled with new experiences, exploring the architecture and beauty and trying many new ski trails in the area! Foret Montmorency and Lac-Beauport are breathtaking places to visit in the winter. The city has amazing restaurants and my time in Old Quebec will never be forgotten. The staff at Sapristi and Couchon Dingue made many evenings eventful and fun.
As I make my way to the Eastern Townships for the summer and fall, I feel I have landed to a home away from home. The place I’m staying is welcoming, beautiful, energetic and surrounded by many things I enjoy doing; biking, hiking, dining, people watching and most of all, enjoying the piece and quiet. The small mountain towns in this area have a heartwarming feel to them that sucks you in and makes you feel like you can be one of their own.
What have I learned?
If I hadn’t jumped on the idea of jetting around to new places, I wouldn’t know much discomfort I can live with. I’ve learned that I get lonely and that’s okay, that these moments come and go and that this comes with this type of lifestyle. That I enjoy small talk with people here and there and that I LOVE trying new place, designing routes and sharing with you all.
Most of all, I’ve learned that there is no perfect moment. That you can’t wait for the big magic to appear and present you with an opportunity on a silver platter.
Sometimes, you have ideas that trigger joy, and I can say with certainty, that’s when you gotta pull the plug and go for it.
