I was conflicted; I felt I should be publicly documenting this incredible new chapter of my life. However, learning how to live van life took priority. Discreetly at that. I wasn’t traveling in van life-friendly territory.

I wanted to see to Nova Scotia. Because the name conjured images of a remote and rugged land. Aside from my imaginings, I knew nothing about it except for its mention in an old Carly Simon song.

It’d been nearly three weeks. Certainly not the longest I’d ever gone without, although I’m hesitant to admit what my record is. It’s quite shameful, really. The me of a decade ago would’ve denied it was possible.  

I explained I was on vacation and planned to drive across the country, estimating I’d be in Canada about two months. That’s what prompted the blink and the pause. Which he followed up with, “But where are you going?”