A year in review from this traveling crew!

It was summer '21 when we made the call — the crazy decision to pack up and leave it all. Not forever, no, but for a good chunk o' time. And the feeling that followed was truly sublime.

It had been a long time coming, the plan still in dream mode. And we knew we had to pick a date when we would really hit the road. So the planning commenced, with research galore — visas and camping-cars, dog travel rules and more.

Slowly all the pieces started falling into place, and in Jan '22 we set out at a leisurely pace.

We cruised across the country, the first leg of our trip. Looking back on it now it seems like a blip. But man it was a treat to explore so many states, each with its own beauty and magnificent traits.

And we got pretty used to living out of a van — now living in a camping-car was the next step of our plan!

So now with all of our ducks in a row, we hopped on that plane with our doggos below. That flight was not easy, but at least I had wine — and in the long run, they adapted just fine!

I think we all have, adapted, I mean. Since diving head first into the camping-car scene we've googled and YouTubed and faked our way through the hurdles, big and small, this life throws at you.

And for close to 10 months we've been a traveling fam, moving so often I can forget where I am. 12 countries seen, countless memories made — it's hard to put into words, I'm afraid.

The beauty we've found, the kindness we've been shown — it's not overstating to say our minds have been blown. A magical waterfall, a glorious view — each day we explore we find something new.

And the generous people whose paths we've crossed have proven that human goodness is not lost. Whether a chat in the park or an invite to their home, we've been welcomed so warmly everywhere we roam.

And not only has this voyage been filled with such pleasure, but it's helped me appreciate my life beyond measure. Being far from home can be hard, it's true — but it's only convinced me that I have the best "crew".

So it seems I've got my cake, and I can eat it too! So appreciative of my "old" life, but also loving the new. And with that I'll wrap it up, with my New Year's wish for all — an adventure on the road, I guarantee you'll have a ball!