Here’s what’s been happening up to now. My partner, Glen, was successful in securing a fellowship position in Toronto, starting on 1 July 2013. We found out in January this year, however, it was all dependent on him passing his exit exams — which he did — in June. That means, barring any unforeseen circumstances, we’ll be leaving Perth, Western Australia for Toronto sometime in June 2013.

So while he’ll be there gaining invaluable work experience, what does that mean for me? In the first instance, I’ll be having a year off work with the added benefit of still getting paid. Despite what you might think, it’s not a rort.

As a state government employee, I’ve taken on the option of 20% reduced pay for four years which entitles me to a year off and the accumulated 80% of my wages. It’s kind of leave without pay and forced savings rolled into one. I’m also due long service leave which is three months off at full pay. All this amounts to me hopefully not having to worry about money while we live in Toronto.

However, I might have to find some work to pay for the extras — dog sledding across harsh, snowy landscapes, a trip to see the breathtaking Northern Lights, wildlife expeditions to spot Beluga Whales, wolves and bears, general travel around Canada, USA and a hop across the Atlantic to Iceland and the rest of Europe. I’ve got a draft lift of the top ten things I want to see while there and will post that when I’ve refined it some more.

So what’s the point of this blog? I’ll be posting about the preparations for Canada (work visas, renting our house, finding a temporary home for our cat) as well as what it’s like living in another country for a year and our various adventures. Primarily, it’s going to be a record for us of a year that promises to be wonderful, exciting and a little frightening as we venture outside our comfort zone.

If anyone has any tips on things we “simply must do” while there, please leave a comment. We’re hoping to make the most of this year and this amazing opportunity.

I hope you enjoy joining us on the journey.