
What would you do with 100 days?
A little over a year ago, my wife and I decided we needed a course correction. We had built a nice life together – good careers, a strong community of friends, and access to more than enough art, culture and food than we could possibly ever enjoy in a vibrant city. And yet, our typical routine was simple: wake up, work, eat, sleep. Rinse and repeat. The in-between times were absorbed by ‘the electronics’ – multiple phones, i-pads, laptops, and desktops. Text messages, e-mails, social media, blogs, and streaming video became the filler of our days. In my case, work was often around-the-clock, encroaching into those things that brought perspective – long walks and talks, visits with family and friends, outings into the city – the things that kept me grounded. For her, everything became routine. The chores and responsibilities grew and her free time diminished. We were starting to fray around the edges.
We had flirted with the idea of traveling around the world several times, but the farthest either of us had ever ventured was New Zealand on our honeymoon. We spent time our time exploring the South part of the South Island and the North Part of the North Island. We knew we were good travel companions. I was the planner and logistics chief and she was the organizer and packer extraordinaire. That trip was our longest together. It was three weeks.
On a long neighborhood walk, we decided that we were going to get more serious about this idea. We had already answered the question “why” we wanted to go.
Then the question became: Where to go?
Walking was our best medium for thinking. We entertained each other’s ideas openly, translated fresh air into fresh thinking, and drew inspiration as we passed through public parks and by private gardens. We sketched out a draft plan, researched and priced elements of the trip, and with each step drew closer to making the commitment to go. We were eating the elephant one bite at a time. (Something tells me I may come to regret that phrase.)
In the meantime, we shifted from planning to implementation. 100 days became the frame of the trip. 96 days on the road through 12 countries, plus two days on each end to write and reflect.
In three weeks, the journey begins.
Inspirational, Martha! I wish you Bon voyage and will look forward to reading your adventures.
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Thanks Dani! Keep fighting the good fight in CO!
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I’m so excited for you! Congratulations on following your dreams.
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Thanks Hannah. I’m looking forward to reading about your adventures as well!
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That is so COOL! I am jealous. This sounds like a great adventure. Have fun, be safe enjoy the journey it will last a lifetime.
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Thanks Doug! It’s a far cry where we started. Check back in about a month and let me know what you think of the blog.
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I got goosebumps ready this! We are so happy for you two. Wishing you safe, exciting, and happy travels.
Love J/F
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We look forward to seeing you and Frank when we get home and reporting on the world in between! Thanks for commenting!
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Congratulations! I look forward to your adventure and arm-chair traveling.
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Thanks Kim! I’ve enjoyed following your adventures post Morse Center as well!
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Martha and Alisa, you two are an inspiration. Not only do you do great work, you are enriching your lives and those who love you. Can’t wait to see what you discover about the world and about yourselves on this trip.
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Thanks Roey! Us too!
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This is so fantastic! I’m so happy that y’all are going to do this! And, having just completed my own 100 days adventure abroad, I feel compelled to share 3 bits of random advice: 1. bring extra toothpaste, 2. don’t bring clothes (OK- maybe just a few things)- but plan to buy them as you need them on the journey, and 3. Amazon Audible will save your sanity- sign up right now and don’t forget to pack headphones. I can’t wait to read about your adventures!!!!! Have a wonderful time!
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Great advice – thanks Melody!
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