Tibb’s Eve is celebrated in Newfoundland and Labrador on December 23rd-the day before, the day before Christmas. Tibb’s Eve also refers to a day that will never arrive. When the to-do lists were endless, we thought, departure for this expedition would never come. But now, with the kayak and the list below five items, tomorrow is the day we heave off for Twillingate-making tomorrow, “Expedition Eve.”

Through the last few weeks of preparation, our emotions have ranged from excited to nervous to overwhelmed to overjoyed to scared and back again. Earlier in the week, we watched this video by Ryan Van Duzer about all of the emotions that can surround a big project, race, or expedition. I don’t think I could have described it better.

With my expedition history, I’m no stranger to this rollercoaster ride. I remember being very nervous as we approached the point where the National Park van was dropping us for our Denali climb. My heart was in my throat, and I contemplated staying in the van, turning right around, and heading for home–the emotions were that strong. Fortunately, I’d asked friends and family to give me written notes to take along and I reached into the bag and pulled out a note from my friend, Natelle. The note was perfect! It said just what I needed to hear. I stayed and the next 31 days were life-changing. Now, nearly 20 years later, the butterflies are still there but I know to expect them!

We will do a weather check tomorrow once we arrive in Twillingate to decide our starting point on the circle. We can’t wait to share all we see, experience, and hear as we go all around the circle!