Settling Back In… But Not Settling Down
It has almost been three months since we returned home from our epic journey around the world. When we returned home to Toronto , I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would we feel adrift? Struggle to settle back into familiar routines? Experience the dreaded "post-trip blues"?
To my surprise—and relief—it wasn’t quite so dramatic. Perhaps it was the glorious fall weather easing our transition or the warmth of our community that welcomed us back with open arms (and not a hint of “Wait, who are you again?”).
Living in a big city like Toronto, it’s easy to assume you might slip away unnoticed. But instead, we were met with such genuine excitement—friends, neighbours, and colleagues eager to hear about our journey. The hugs, dinner invitations, and playful questions about whether we all survived intact (“You didn’t leave anyone behind, right?”) were heartening. It’s a wonderful feeling to know you were missed.
Yet, as I write this, I realize how quickly the glow of such a monumental trip can begin to fade. Just like the fall leaves drifting to the ground, the details of our adventure risk being swept away unless we intentionally hold onto them.
The Kids Are Alright (Really, They Are)
Back-to-school season this year has been, dare I say, seamless. Kasia, now graduated to middle school, is embracing her independence—walking to and from school with friends, managing a locker, and changing classes for every subject like a seasoned pro. She does miss the “playtime” of her younger years (and the three-recess system), but she’s adjusting admirably with the one longer lunch period.
Ayana, not to be outdone, is thriving as well. She’s taken on new challenges, including participating in the school talent show— definitely not a surprising move from my typically extroverted youngest. Ever resourceful, she noticed the sign-up sheet for acts was already filled with the maximum permitted - 10 entries, but instead of being deterred, she simply added an 11th row and wrote her and her friends’ names in. Problem solved! Both kids have grown in confidence, curiosity, and resilience. Conversations at dinner now range from international politics to playground dramas, and I couldn’t be prouder of their thoughtful perspectives.
Life at Home: Janice and Me
Janice’s transition back has been equally smooth. Returning to her former employer in a new role, she’s hit the ground running and is thriving both professionally and personally. Seeing her so energized and fulfilled has been a joy.
As for me, my return was a bit more… eventful. I had imagined stepping back into my previous role, armed with fresh ideas and enthusiasm. But life had other plans. I learned that my position had been redefined and was no longer part of the organization’s structure. For 48 hours, I was in a funk. But on day three, I had an epiphany: this wasn’t a setback; it was an opportunity.
I’ve spent the next few months exploring what’s next—not rushing into the first available thing, but savouring the chance to reflect, recalibrate, and rediscover what truly excites me. Golf, biking, tennis, long walks, and catching up with friends have filled my days, along with the realization that our epic trip was too precious to let slip away.
What’s Next?
One thing became clear as I reflected on our journey: I needed to preserve it—not just for me, but for my family, and anyone out there yearning for a break from the everyday grind. The answer? Write a book.
So, I’m thrilled to announce that my first book, inspired by our family sabbatical, will be published and released in January 2025. It’s a deeply personal project, capturing the lessons, laughter, and life-changing moments from our travels.
Writing this book has been a surprising joy. I was reluctant to start blogging about our trip in the first place. After some diplomatic nudging by Janice I began to document our journey. I actually wasn’t sure anyone would even read my musings, let alone find them meaningful. But your reviews and encouragement have been humbling. This book feels like the natural next step—an extension of the stories and reflections I’ve shared here.
And that’s not all. This book is also a launchpad for something I’m equally passionate about: speaking to audiences about the lessons we learned, the joy of pressing pause on life, and the ways travel can transform us.
Talks like The Unexpected Power of Pressing Pause and How Seeing the World Helps You See Yourself are in the works, and I can’t wait to share these ideas with others.
Join Me
If you’ve enjoyed following along with our journey, I invite you to stay connected as we embark on this next chapter. Click here to sign up for exclusive updates about the book launch, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights from our adventure all from this revamped website - www.charlesachampong.com.
Thank you for reading, for laughing along, and for reminding me why sharing these stories matters. Here’s to beautifully colouring outside the lines—something I’m slowly learning to do, particularly as someone who loves to live in black and white.
