I've thought many times that I should write a wrap-up blog and reveal our next adventure, but I've always found a reason to put it off. I'm not sure if it's been laziness or the desire to lay low (full-time civilization is overwhelming!) or because I've been waiting for some post-hike epiphany to strike. Maybe all of the above.
A view across Sunset Lake from the porch
Chris and I have been living at his family's camp since our return from the AT. It's a lovely spot, peaceful and calm, with a stunning lake view. We've been delighted to slowly reconnect with friends and family, and have enjoyed sharing our trail experiences in person. As we chat, someone will inevitably ask, "what was the biggest thing you learned on the trail?" and I've found that I struggle with this question. It's not that I didn't learn many things along the way, but I think I imagined some great change in perspective as a result of our hike. Maybe I expected to transform into one of the super-crunchy hiker women from the Patagonia ads, or to reach some new level of zen clarity. The biggest surprise, and perhaps the biggest learning, is that I've returned from the trail as myself. The same joys and fears, the same penchant for chocolate and a nice Chardonnay. But with mad tent-staking skills. And calluses.
We're staying here through the holidays as we prepare for our next adventure. What could top six months and 2000 miles? How about a transatlantic move? Chris is returning to his professional passion as a chiropractor by joining his friend's growing practice in the Netherlands. It's an amazing opportunity for him to do this work in an environment that is more about healing than insurance paperwork. As for me...when I started independent consulting, my vision was to create a fully online business so that I "could move to Europe for a year if I want to". Of course, that was totally in abstract at the time, but now I have to put my money where my mouth is! Be careful what you wish for :-)
The most beautiful and peaceful location
Chris and I are both excited and terrified about the move in equal measure. It's a risk for sure, but also a life experience that we would regret not trying. Six months from now, I can't imagine thinking, "I could be living in the Netherlands" and not have given it a shot. It helps immensely that we have an amazing community in VT to return to if we need. I can't tell you how bittersweet it is to reconnect with people and places here, knowing that we'll leave again in a few months.
While we were hiking, I loved having this blog as a point of connection with all of you and as a chronicle of our journey. So I hope to maintain it, albeit more sporadically, as we transition to the Netherlands. I've found a scarcity of online resources for expat entrepreneurs, so I also hope that writing about my experiences will help anyone considering a similar move.
In the meantime, we're enjoying a mix of work, move logistics, online Dutch class (heel leuk), and relaxation. Not a bad post-hike lifestyle.
- Vicki
Chris getting his rowing workout on the dock
I prefer early morning yoga
We will be living in or near Amersfoort (center of the map)