From Dream to Reality
A Tribute to Player 1 - Rob
In my earlier post "The Dream," I shared my deep desire to cycle the world, but life never pans out the way we picture it in our mind. While I sold my house at the end of 2020 and quit my job in early 2021, you would think I would pack up immediately and set off to cycle the world, but instead, I settled into a cozy life in Nottingham, with the amazing ginger family. After moving my cat, Minge, in with Christy, an incredible woman and friend, I said I would “stay for just two weeks” while she got settled. A year and a half later I was still there, sleeping in my hammock on the party hut and trying to play “professional photographer.”
Despite no house and job, my dream of cycling the world lingered like an unfinished melody. When my friend Rob unveiled his ambitious plan he called “23 in 23,” to cycle 23 countries in 2023, he extended an invitation to me and our cycle buddies. Despite my longing for such an adventure, I found myself tethered by reasons that, upon reflection, seemed more like excuses.
A moment of clarity struck me before Christmas in 2022. I was struggling quite a bit with my mental health and was doing what I always do when feeling low, Googling last minute flights. While contemplating an impromptu Saddle Life trip to The Gambia, a realization dawned on me — why plan a short, expensive escapade when I could join Rob on his epic journey? And so I pulled the plug on this temporary fix, short trip, and messaged Rob instantly to say I would join him the following year for what I really needed, an extended adventure.
As it unfolded the following year, the initial weeks and months of my journey deviated significantly and were marked by unexpected challenges and false starts. These experiences tested my resolve, and I'll delve into these struggles in future posts. Yet, I am eternally thankful to Rob. Without him, my dream might have lingered indefinitely in the realm of 'someday.' To Rob, you were the catalyst, setting the wheels in motion for me to leap into pursuing my dream. For that, I pay homage by rightfully calling you what you are and deserve — Player 1.
Rob, you're more than a fellow Saddle Lifer; you're a cherished friend, a kind soul, a patient listener, and a compassionate advisor. Your inspiration echoes in my pursuit to carry less baggage and log off once in a while. I love you, dude. Here's to the incredible journey we've undertaken. Although our paths took different directions (and at vastly different speeds), it still feels like we’re on the same journey. 🚲🧡
