In my current state of limbo, I’m trying hard to keep going forward whilst staying exactly where I am, set myself goals without creating expectations, making plans for whatever eventuality may befall me, and chant for all of the above at once, rather bewildering.
Having led a life that I once considered to be a series of alternating periods of good and bad luck, now clearly demonstrated to be the results of good and bad causes and effects, I find myself in circumstances that are less than prepared for anything like a comfortable retirement.
Not that I’m about to retire just yet, but I am trying to make what arrangements I can, given that I have less than ten years to get the little ducks in line. Judging by current figures, I should have enough to support myself, as long as the right decisions are made along the way and the wheels don’t fall off too soon.
In order to gather more information, I’ve spent most of the day looking into tales of others who are already doing what I plan to do, namely to live on a narrowboat. I’m sure it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but it is reasonably affordable and has a freedom unlike most other lifestyles. It also comes with an ever changing view from the kitchen window.
If you would like to have a little look for yourself, here is one of Dan Brown’s YouTube videos about his life afloat and a wonderful blog by John and Fiona Slee, living the dream aboard their narrowboat Epiphany. I’ve also been reading this month’s issue of Canal Boat magazine but don’t blame me if you get the bug if you read it too.
Having goals of our own is important if we are to make progress in life, but seeing others who have gone a long way to achieving those same goals gives us encouragement as well as further information that might help achieve our own.
The Search For Enlightenment 
Mar 04, 2013 @ 20:36:45
Hi …. Living on a canal boat seems such a delightful way to live. If only I cold relocate the family I’d personally love it!!! Not sure the wife and kids would like the idea though, although when I mentioned the idea to her a few minutes ago she said that where I go she would follow. I think she was being supportive and kind rather than “wow that’s a good idea lets do it”. Such a pity!!! The simple life is so very attractive, free of all the want (and not needs) of consumer life. I didn’t realise it was as cheap as Dan Brown suggest in the YouTube video. So in the absence of being in the right place in my life I’ll have to settle for some chocolate by way of a consolation and short term fix. I really do wish you well and look forward to hearing how you get on. BTW go for it. Kind regards, Gary
Mar 04, 2013 @ 21:50:13
Hi Gary, thanks for the great comments. I’m sure that the idea of living on a narrowboat is exciting to lots of people, but I’m also sure that the reality of it all is slightly different. Like most dreams, they have to fit into the right time and place, and although many families do manage to combine the freedom with the routine of work and school and the like, it has to be easier to make it work once the commitments have been reduced. My dream, my goal is still just that at the moment, but the more I investigate the possibilities, the more realistic it is becoming. I will keep everyone informed as to progress, and thanks again for the encouragement.
Namaste, Anupadin