Tag Archives: SoloRoadTrip

Day 4 #SoloRoadTrip – Reimagining

28 Sunday Jul 2024

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The sun was shining but the day got even brighter immediately after I got a phone call from my good friend, and mentor, Dafne.

I heard all about her current travels and upcoming work event (break a leg, lady – it’s going to be GREAT!) and then the conversation turned to me and what’s going on in my world. And we had the best jam session ever. Well, it was actually like most of our jam sessions which are always “the best ever”. Her energy is infectious and one can’t help but feel amazing and empowered after a conversation with Dafne!

I was smiling the whole way to Calgary!

I picked up one of my sister’s favorite snacks as my Starbucks was long gone in no time and again, no Starbucks along the way. I found a few natural restrooms though so it was a more successful day in that regard! ha ha But no photos from those stops #Trish!

On this trip I had decided that I was going to look for a pink vehicle, as a sign from the Universe that I’m headed in the right direction.

Why a pink vehicle? Well, because one of the fun things that Dafne and I do together is pick a unique and random object to look for in our everyday lives and use it as a sign. For those readers that are not woo-woo, you are probably laughing out loud … but trust me. This law of attraction stuff works! I saw a car first and then this truck! Luckily we were on a hill so I had enough time to take a snap. How fun!!

Something else fun along the way was hearing this song on the radio – #albertagirl – and listening to this podcast, which I learned a few tricks on how to stop the ‘bingo balls’ that run through your head, as my Mom likes to say – #alwaysgrowing.

I ended the evening at one of my favorite Canadian restaurants. I know I know … it’s not super creative but I LOVE their chicken wings! I got a booth with an electrical plug (not an easy task but the hostess was gracious enough to seek one out for me) … I had 2 minutes to place my happy hour order (can you guess what it was?) 🍷

And then I dove into this book which I have been listening to but decided I ALSO needed it in the physical form. And wouldn’t you know it, there was an Indigo Books in the same shopping area as the Earls. Thank you, Universe.

Tomorrow holds a few meetings and then on the road 🚗 for my final day. The easiest of them all with a quick 3-hour drive to my parents. See you soon, Mom and Dad!

Day 3 #SoloRoadTrip – Reflecting

27 Saturday Jul 2024

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As some of my friends and family might have suspected, Pavan, Tyler and I all woke up “a little rickety” (as my friend Juergen likes to say). 😆

When my friend Moselle called me to catch up (which unfortunately was interrupted by my phone showing “SOS” and no-wife signal on the Coquihalla) her first words were “you sound tired”. Ahhh … I love that you’re the consummate honest friend, Moselle.

But … like most events in life that come with a little extra wine “it was worth it”.

After morning coffee and more catch up, I headed out on my way. Next stop – Kelowna, BC.

On the road, I finished listening to Jane’s memoir (where me, Julie, Moselle and Christy all got a shout out cameo appearance!!). Today’s drive included more silence with the radio off. A more reflective drive and an opportunity to listen to what my heart was saying. It was easy to do because the drive was beautiful and the internet was not available. But I was so moved by Jane’s story, I needed a bit of time to simply be in the world.

Traffic was terrible leaving Seattle but one thing I love about going through smaller border crossings into Canada are the roads that take you there. They are through farm land and small towns, and I try to imagine what people do in these small towns. Actually, I know that answer having grown up in a small town myself 800 miles from “the big city”. I respect the simple life. But when I was growing up in High Level, I didn’t know the world was bigger than that town, or had so many opportunities. Today is different … yet these small communities still exist (and hopefully thrive). As I get older, I’m more inclined to find places that slow things down versus speed things up. So driving on these backroads and entering a small border crossing, well it suits me just fine.

I’m always grateful when the border patrol says “Welcome Home” and hands me back my Passport. I want to scream “Wahoooooo!” but don’t because those border patrol people are very serious and I don’t want them to change their mind. But inside I’m smiling! BIG TIME!!

The Coquihalla Highway is beautiful but let me tell you something … there is not one Starbucks along the way! There were barely any turn-offs. I don’t know if I saw ANY. And I was looking. Thankfully I was distracted by view until I finally hit the Visitor Center just outside of West Kelowna. I could get out and snap a few photos of the breathtaking landscape.

Before I went to my friend Janice’s, I looked up “wineries nearby” and said “Add Stop“. Hair of the dog?! Ha ha .. Actually I just wanted to sit with my thoughts and reflect on things a little bit before heading to see my friend.

Matthew and Janice are “early to bed and early to rise” which suited me perfectly and gave me time to craft my Day 3 blog, write my gratitudes, do a little reading, and get a good night’s sleep.

Janice – thank you for the delicious spread of locally sourced food and yummy wine. Fun to think back to 2014 when we first met in Kelowna. I love how our lives have criss crossed and weaved together effortlessly over the decade. I feel blessed to have forged a friendship with you over the years.

We didn’t take a picture tonight (I’ll be sure to get one tomorrow!) but funny enough … I pulled up this photo from my very first #SoloRoadTrip … the date on this photo is July 26, 2019. How crazy is that!

Of course we don’t look a day older today then we did back then!

And just to show that I’m no fashionista and maybe need to spend more time updating my wardrobe … I’m actually wearing the exact same outfit that I did that day 5 years ago! AND … as I was dressing this morning, I had a little spidey sense that it might be the case. Same thing when I heard myself say “you should double check that the address in your phone is indeed where Janice stills lives”. Ha! Well, I gave the woman a little scare and a smile since she opened the door and saw someone standing there with a bottle of wine and suitcase in hand!

And this photo was the start of something for both of us. You, a new business. And me, my Women’s Leadership Unconference. God I love making cool memories.

Day 2 #SoloRoadTrip – Picture Perfect View

26 Friday Jul 2024

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I’m going to start with the end because the view from my friend’s place is out of this world. I walked in and saw a beautifully set dinner table, complete with wine glass and fresh flowers. And then I turned around and saw the view and said out loud – holy f*&^! WOW #stunning. Tyler said, yeah, that is how most people react. And I’m like, no shit. #Breathtaking.

So now, back to the beginning of the day.

It started off cold in Crescent City this morning. So cold I had to turn my seat warmer on for the first part of my drive! I winded my way through the last miles of California, through majestic forest and a single lane road. I had planned to start my day with some work calls but nature said ‘not yet, Joanne’. So I breathed it all in and enjoyed every moment before I hit the interstate.

I was pleasantly surprised when I got onto Interstate 5 that I still had beautiful mountains and farmer’s fields on either side of the road for what was probably at least 100 miles. I was whizzing along at 75 mph and there was no place to stop for a quick photo so you’ll have to believe me. 😆

Internet found me in time to salvage a few work calls. Of note was my call with Lee-Anne, a founder who participated in Pathway in 2023, my signature program in San Francisco for female founders. Back then, Lee-Anne had eagerly absorbed the lessons shared by the program mentors and investors, and I knew Lee-Ann was someone that had the grit, determination, and grace, to make it big with her idea. And today was the chance for me to catch up and hear an update.

Lee-Anne spoke with such confidence and ease that I smiled more brightly with each element of the business she updated me on. I always love it when I meet a founder that I know I am going to be able to say “I knew her when …”. And I will undoubtedly say that about Lee-Anne.

When we talked about the growth she’s experiencing, mixed in with the daily grind and relentless determination needed to succeed, Lee-Anne embraced both sides of table. “When fear and opportunity hold hands” she said, referring to the incredible excitement and challenges that comes with realizing our dreams.

I’m going to hold that saying close to me. It’s a good reminder that on any giving day, life gives us “yes, and” responses to our prayers.

I ran into brutal traffic along the 5 as I headed East to my friend’s place. The extra 45 minutes wasn’t in my calculations and well, let’s just say I was keeping well hydrated. Turns out the Oregoneans are pretty fussy about the use of their public restrooms. Took 3 stops to find a place I could duck into the washroom unnoticed and not feel the pressure to be a patron. But then again, it was a Starbucks so you know, I indulged and supported … as a token of my appreciation. 🙂

I finally made it to my friends and as you already read in my opening paragraph, their view is stunning. It threw me off balance when I took my first steps into their home. I enveloped the breathtaking view just steps away. Ahhhh …. now I know why you moved to Seattle, Pavan. Well done, my friend. Well done.

Tyler cooked a meal for kings and queens, complete with wine (and more wine) and then some ice cream. The three of us had fun catching up on work, life, and more work. I remembered back to the first time I met Pavan at the Vault in San Francisco when she first arrived on the SF scene. We became instant friends, but then again, if you meet Pavan, you can’t help but create that category together. Her curiosity, matched with her generosity, makes her one pretty amazing human.

While we didn’t solve all of the world’s problems tonight … we did have some really good laughs at how similar our leadership style is and that we recognize the “bar” we set in our own businesses. And no, not that bar.

My eyes are heavy bc it’s much later than the time I set for this to be published. So, until tomorrow. Good night from Seattle. area. ish.

Day 1 #SoloRoadTrip – California Coast

25 Thursday Jul 2024

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#WindshieldTime. It never disappoints.

I started the day with a workout. Vowing “this time” be more active, not only when I am in Edmonton for a few weeks, but also while on the road. I’m saying it out loud here so that my accountability partners keep me honest. 💪

After that I said goodbyes to two loves in my life. I was able to get Torrie in for a quick photo before I took off. She’s very camera shy. 🐾

For those that live in San Francisco or know its weather patterns, these 3 images of the Golden Gate Bridge depict our infamous “micro climates”. The images were taken at the beginning, middle and end of the bridge. All in 1.7 miles (2.7 Km). Wow! And don’t worry, Mom & Dad and Scott, I was going very slow and being very safe when I snapped those photos. 😎 📷

I started listening to my friend Jane’s new book, coming out in September. I’m hono(u)red to be part of her “Launch Squad” and to receive an advance copy of the book (and audiobook). I’ve known Jane for over a decade and we’ve had 100’s of o’dark hundred morning runs together. Over the years she’s opened up about being a sibling sexual abuse (SSA) survivor and all of us in the running gang have been on the journey with her as she’s become an advocate for SSA. I encourage everyone to watch her TEDx talk, which I and a few other close friends of Jane, was privileged enough to attend and support her reaching that major milestone. And I see you’re at 650K views, Jane – wow – amazing!

“I Feel Real Guilty” is Jane’s memoir and I encourage everyone to follow Jane and share her story with family, friends and colleagues, because SSA is something that is not talked about or understood. Thank you for being so brave, Jane, and for writing with such vulnerability. I’m blown away by your journey.

Meanwhile, it was hard to pay attention to the road when the California coastline is so absolutely stunning. I did this route back in 2019 for my inaugural #SoloRoadTrip and the beauty doesn’t get old.

Along the way, not only did the forest and coastline tempt me to stop for photos, so did the wineries and the rustic little shops! #Wine and #MeatShop. Next time I have to plan more time in my trip for much longer random stops! 🍕 🍷

And then I was reminded that some things are not as they seem.

This looked like a cool old hotel but when I took the turn off the highway to take a snap, well, it looks like the Thatcher Hotel has seen better days!

The temperatures were high today! Mostly between 32C (89F) and 39C (102F). But I kept well hydrated. A few Gatorade Zeros. Okay, plus two Starbucks Chai Lattes #myfav! and copious amounts of water. So yeah, frequent stops were in order. I balanced some healthy eating 🍏 (an apple a day keeps the doctor away!) with a little candy (Cheetos Flaming Hot is my fav! The ones that make your fingers turn orange. Yum!)

Grateful to have the chance to take this time off and appreciate my team for having my back and holding down the fort. Thank you Kennedy, Lydia and Funmbi! You guys rock!

I drove into my destination with the sun setting along the water. A little cooler at the coast but a welcome relief after a hot day.

And now … my evening gratitudes followed by The Thursday Murder Club. While not all folks in my book club liked it, or even finished it, I loved it (after the first few chapters) and am into book #3. So I highly recommend! And it’s coming to the big screen so Thida, you’re on for a Watch Party!

#SoloRoadTrip 2024 🚗 🇨🇦

24 Wednesday Jul 2024

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It’s that time of year again. The time when I embark on my #SoloRoadTrip and I.cannot.wait!

I truly love windshield time as my friend Jane calls it!

A friend asked me “how will you use all the alone time?” … and what is so beautiful about this time on the road is that yeah I have my “books on tape” (ha, showing my age!) … and I’ve got some friends that I look forward to catching up with … of course I’ll take a few work calls … and there is always SiriusXM and the Highway, nevermind the endless list of podcasts of course. But mostly I’m interested in just driving solo and likely being in silence a lot.

I pray that no wildfires spring up along my route, and I’m praying for all of the people that have had to evacuate in Jasper, and all those impacted in other parts of Canada or the US. #StaySafe everyone.

So in total the SRT 2024 will look something like this:

  • 5 days
  • 4 nights
  • 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
  • 1 hotel night
  • 3 couches I will surf (thank you friends!)
  • 1 must read/listen to audio book
  • 30 hours of priceless time alone
  • and for those that know me well, a few glasses of 🍷🍷

I look forward to sharing my journey!

🚗 🇨🇦

Thanks to my running gang for hanging with me today. My body will appreciate the movement before I start my journey tomorrow!

#SoloRoadTrip – Final Day

28 Wednesday Jul 2021

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Almost home …

And …. I have arrived! My Dad was sitting outside relaxing on the bench after mowing the lawn .. just waiting for me to arrive 😆🚙.

Mom, Dad and Trish — thanks for being there with me every morning, noon and night. I am happy to be home! #SoloRoadTrip

Final Video post ..

  • 13 Days
  • 2 Hotel Stops, 2 Sofas and 3 Friend’s Extra Beds (Thx again Beth, Mike, Courtney, Sean & Tania and June & Jordan!)
  • 6 States – California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, South Dakota and Montana
  • 1 Province – Alberta
  • 20 Podcasts
  • 1 Music Station
  • Starting Mileage – 57,582
  • Ending Mileage – 60,244
  • Total Miles – 2,662

Solo #WindshieldTime … Priceless

#SoloRoadTrip – Day 12

27 Tuesday Jul 2021

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Ventured downtown Calgary for the day and worked out of the cool Ampersand office space to lead our first “Office Hours”.

June and I got some of the High Level gang together!

Barely recognized Clark behind that beard but as soon as he started with his wise cracks, we knew it was really him.

SO great to see you Wade, Corey, Greg and Clark!

And of course, I have to close the day with a video from the gang.

#SoloRoadTrip – Day 9

24 Saturday Jul 2021

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I spent Day 9 hanging around in Bozeman. Cute town that I visited 6 years ago and have been meaning to come back to.

I did one critical thing today, which was get my Negative Covid results!! I can now, officially, cross the border into Canada!

It was also a good day to make a small dent in my inbox and do a little catch up. So it was coffee shop, followed by restaurant, followed by coffee shop, followed by restarrant bar 🙂

Got the call that the Eagle had landed (AKA, my friend Sean) and off the Bozeman International Airport! I love picking up and taking friends to the airport. So it was the least I could do in exchange for a place to crash and the fun we’re going to have tomorrow!

#SoloRoadTrip – Day 8

23 Friday Jul 2021

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OMGosh … sometimes you gotta just love a hotel room!!

Today was a bit more on the uneventful side … but for me, it has still been heaven.

After sleeping in, I did what I didn’t do all week. I worked! ha!!

And for those that know me (which should be all of 8 of you LOL) … I loved it!

BUT … in other news. The Olympics started today, folks! That’s exciting. Or maybe it’s not because I have only seen it on one TV in the, you know, 5 bars I’ve been to tonight. 😆🍷

Oh but actually – maybe I have something exciting to mention! It’s a little “FutureCasting” as they say.

… I met Chuck and Cheryl over dinner, who I think is going to introduce me to husband #3.

Just kidding!! No more marriages! 😬 Sorry for the almost heart attack Mom and Dad!

But … white water rafting with beers and a bunch of friends that I don’t know yet, sounds totally up my alley!

And now .. back to reality …

A few photos from today. Won’t surprise any of my fans I’m sure. LOL

Afternoon and pre-dinner office. Please don’t read my emails. That would be weird. BUT .. if you do, then please mark the as ‘Read” so I can file them away.

Post dinner office. That is a delicious peanut-chocolate truffle dessert perched on my laptop. In case you missed it.

Tomorrow might be much like today, except – except – except – I’m turning into an Uber and picking up a friend at the airport and then driving West to have a few laughs, drinks, and I suspect some more drinks, and then apparently some golf.

Looking forward Sean and Tania! Can’t wait!