Waves goodbye

The chapter in Prince Rupert came to a close today. Our goodbye came before sunrise with a foggy mist lifting on the harbour.

It was a goodbye to a town that has taught me so much about myself. But this was also the moment I had to say goodbye to my boyfriend. We stood in the middle of lane 2 at the ferry terminal. We stood clutching each other just before I had to drive on board the ferry. I tried to take in every second. We’ll be apart for a month. Not long, but it feels long right now. Our reunion will be just as public, Heathrow Airport. At that time we’ll begin our adventure together.

My sister flew up to our hometown to meet me and make the long trip down south with me. She was there at the ferry terminal with me as I said my early morning goodbyes to Brandon.

Our day began at 4:30 a.m.

It’s much later now and I’m tired.

I’m sitting at the bow of the ship and being gently rocked back and forth as our ferry enters the open waters of Queen Charlotte Sound.

There are a lot of elderly German tourists onboard; they’re a constant source of entertainment - so expressive.

The voyage began over 17 hours ago. Needless to say I’m about ready to get off.

We should be docking in an hour and then we’ll drive to Port McNeill where we’ll stay the night. Tomorrow we’ll continue down the island. It’s a big island.

The rest of my week is trip prep time. Because the count down has begun, yes that’s right 5 days till take off.

On Sunday my sister, cousin and I will be flying from Vancouver to London where we’ll meet up with my mom. From there we’ll get over the jet leg near Gatwick and then two days later fly to Athens.

It all feels a bit unreal at this stage in the game. With me still at home base, well just about back at home base.

This 4-month-long time away will be good for me. I can’t wait.

But right now I’m going a bit stir crazy on board this epic trip along the Inside Passage, aboard a ferry when at this time at night everyone is talking in whispers.