Weeks of prepping are complete and we are reminding ourselves if we forgot it, we can buy it. With lots of excitement and a little angst we begin our adventure. Yesterday we fine- tuned the rigs making final small fixes here and there. Propane working? Check. Refrigerator working? Check. Water tank full? Check. Coffee? Check. Are the dogs in the trucks? Check. So thankful to all the amazing neighbors in Oak Harbor who stopped by to share a quick story, wish us safe travels and offer their support. You and our Coquille, Oregon friends are all a blessing to us and will all be missed. Trevor is ready to go, Molly is a bit reluctant to leave home but doesn’t want to be left behind.

First stop is fancy coffees, second stop is diesel fill up. We headed to the Sumas border crossing. About an hour wait in line. John and Vicki made it through with a little questioning. Fran had to pull in to the parking area and go inside to be processed. After some paperwork review, passport check and a small deposit of money to the great country of Canada both rigs, the dogs and all our stuff are approved to continue. We drove through Abbotsford and a short distance later arrived at our day’s destination, Hope B.C.

Hope, what a perfect place to spend our first night. Majestic, tall, steep, rocky peaks surround us and have us in awe. We hope for a safe journey. We hope for good health. We hope for fond memories of Steve. I hope not only for remembering but also for rebuilding, healing, and strengthening relationships with my wonderful family and friends who I will share this adventure with.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Before settling in at our campsite we headed to town to explore the quaint streets of Hope. Hope is located on the banks of the beautiful Fraser River and is also known as the Chainsaw Carving Capital. There are over 80 chainsaw carvings located around town as well as a unique display of bird houses. John especially enjoyed discovering the various wood carvings and took some great photos. Highlights of the day: easy first day of driving, creative wood carvings, and perhaps most importantly, the Thermacell mosquito repellent pod is working!