The Adventure Idea…
Many times throughout our lives an opportunity, or adventure, presents itself that seems out of reach. Yet we still hope and dream. We have Bucket Lists. We compare the pros and cons. How bad do we want to take that leap of fate? Will the adventure allow us to grow by expanding our horizons?
In late 2021, at a gathering with friends, the idea came up to spend the winter exploring Mexico on our motorcycles. Yes, many others have done this. Some famous, some not so famous. Biggest difference…never in my wildest dreams did I ever expect ME to be attempting and experiencing such an adventure. Before COVID changed our lives, and the world, I had been on numerous amazing motorcycle adventures through the United States. The longest one being three weeks to The Grand Canyon exploring amazing sites along the way. To me, the adventure to Mexico would be on a much grander scale.
Early 2022 brought many life challenges for me. Unfortunately, the Mexico adventure idea took a back burner position. I doubted that I would get to experience this adventure. Now, this may be the first sign it was meant to be…as the life challenges were dealt with, the Mexico adventure idea resurfaced.
Checklist
First…a thorough research and understanding of what would be involved to prepare. What documents are required? Medical insurance? What do I need to carry for six months? Which tools do I need to carry for my motorbike? What about fuel as my Rebel has a fairly small fuel tank? And of course…how much will this all cost? Time to make two lists…”To Do” and “To Pack”.
I had been to Mexico five times before. I fell in love with the culture, the food, the music, and the people. All five trips were vacations booked through a travel agent at all inclusive resorts. After every one of these vacations, I swore I would start learning Spanish, but life happened every time. This visit to Mexico would be a different experience. I stuck to my plan and started learning Spanish through Duolingo. It was a great start and fairly easy to learn basics from.
The Decision
It literally took me months to confidently say, “I am going to Mexico.” Even though my sons are adults, being away from them for five to six months would get tough. Then there is all of the uncertainty and what if’s. What I didn’t want to have happen years down the road, were any regrets. Have a few of those already. Do not want to add to that list. Life is too short and tomorrow is never promised…sometimes we need to say, “Go For It…”
The next important step…preparing my Rebel for the adventure…