It’s 5 am, and my mind is already churning. Lists upon lists of everything left to do pull me from the comfort of my bed. Normally, I’d try to brush it off and get more sleep, but the excitement and enormity of our plan have taken over. Today marks a fresh start, two months late by some measures, but three years overdue by others.

In 2019, when the kids were younger and more easily swept along on adventures, we set out on this very same journey. Our plan? Drive through South America on a World Safari, with “home” as the ultimate destination. But COVID cut that journey short. Now, five years later, we’re finally attempting it again, though the world—and our lives—look very different.

We’re leaving on the eve of a major U.S. election, with Trump and Harris in the ring this time. War rages on in Ukraine & Gaza, tensions are high worldwide. Natural disasters seem to be everywhere, and here at home, November’s chill has set in with relentless rain and the first snow creeping down the mountain. It’s time to go.

The house is packed up, scrubbed down, and rented out. We’ve managed to pare down our lives to fit within 130 square feet (or 11.89 square meters). Packing for four seasons, homeschooling, camping, hiking and sports equipment. A toolbox full of essentials for repairs. No doubt we’ve packed too much—21 pairs of somehow made it on board! And, despite my best arguments, Charley’s beloved (and rather large) folding keyboard, which she swears she’ll play every day.

Logistics have consumed the past few months. Renewing passports, renting out our house, selling my car, winding down business commitments, shuffling school plans, prepping the truck. Every item we cross off the list reminds me of what’s waiting on the road ahead. With everything we’re leaving behind, doubt creeps in now and then: Are we doing the right thing for the kids? Are we selfishly pulling them from friends, classes, and sports? But deep down, I know the answer: yes. This journey may challenge us, but it will also open up experiences and lessons we couldn’t find anywhere else.

So, are we ready? YES!

A quick stop for hugs & say g’bye to family before making for the border…