It’s been a while since we’ve last posted a newsletter. Since getting back from our Olive Odyssey expedition at the end of November we’ve been super busy with catching up with all our different projects – working on the book and film, travelling across Canada for various presentations, filling orders for Angus Rowboats and countless other tasks. Julie has been struggling through her chores on crutches and a leg brace for the past couple of months after having her ACL tendon in her knee reconstructed.

It’s also been a tough time for Julie and I as my mother passed away early in the New Year following a long struggle with cancer. She’s been an avid cheerleader for our expeditions and projects and we will miss her dearly.

Leif, on the other hand, oblivious to deadlines and chores has been merrily enjoying life back in Canada. We try to recreate the seafaring days on the Mediterranean by sticking him on a floaty board at the local swimming pool. While it’s not quite the same as charging through waves in gale force winds, it still puts a smile on his face.

For those in the Vancouver area, I will be presenting at the Vancouver Mountain Film Festival this Wednesday, Feb 15th talking about my record-breaking row around Vancouver Island (and a sneak preview of Olive Odyssey). Tickets and info are available at VIMFF.

Spring is just around the corner, and Julie and I are already planning a number of paddling and hiking adventures around Vancouver Island. Good luck with your own projects, and hopefully we’ll see some of you out there this summer.