Big decision: should I sell the car?

With less than two weeks before I head north to start walking, I need to make a big decision… should I eliminate a chunk of my monthly expense by selling my wee black VW Polo?

It’s coming up two months since I finished work to start arranging this adventure, and having to update some of my equipment to more suitable ‘lightweight’ gear has meant I’m running close to the financial wire. Something’s gotta change, otherwise I will be eating nothing but roots and berries on Te Araroa!

I know the car is just a bunch of metal and wheels, and I can always get another one. But there’s a feeling of freedom that comes from having the vehicle sitting ready for me to hop in and drive.

Will having a pack, tent and food on my back give me the same sense of freedom? Only time will tell.

So as a last resort before writing up a ‘Car For Sale’ advert, let me put these two offers out there:

1. I’ve now got the orange ‘donate’ button on the right-hand-side of this blog, near the top. If you’ve got a spare dollar or two, I’d appreciate your help. And… anyone keen for donating $50 or more will receive a personally signed, numbered limited-edition (only 200 copies) of the book I’ll write following my Te Araroa adventure. I also have a top-secret idea to make the book even more special – you won’t be disappointed!
2. Remember how I’m an experienced professional speaker? I’m taking bookings for ‘after the trail’ presentations, complete with photos and video and lessons-learnt from the 4-month trek. Dates are limited, the fee is $2,000 and I only ask for a deposit of $1,000 to secure your event. Please contact me on smiles@stuartfleming.com to discuss the options.

There you go. Are you able to help me keep my wheels please? 🙂