The Double X crew officially set sail for the South Seas on July 16, 2016, passing under the Golden Gate Bridge at precisely 12:30 p.m. It has taken over two years of preparation and a healthy dose of persistence, but it has been worth all the hard work. In fact, it’s nothing short of a dream come true.

In search of luck

The night before, the fog settled over the marina like a down quilt, sending Francesca on a mission to find a lucky penny to help usher in sunny skies for our departure.

With so many delays up to this point, a little extra good fortune would be welcome.

Francesca never found that penny, but she brought us luck just the same as the morning fog began to roll out just in time for our departure.

Persistence with a capital P

It has been a journey in itself just getting to this point. We worked to make Double X seaworthy, including a major overhaul of a broken hydraulic system. We adjusted our itinerary to dodge seasonal weather changes. We creatively packed provisions, supplies and personal items to fit into our limited space. In short, we did everything within our power to ensure smooth sailing.

Bee stings, sutures and more

In fact, we even participated in a one-day medical training to be as ready as possible for anything that may come our way from bee stings, fever and rashes to more serious events such as dehydration and beyond. We’ve practiced how to suture wounds and use the automated defibrillator and other basic medical techniques.

Captain Bob and Els have countless years of experience in this arena, but it was nice to review all these things. We’re up to speed, and the medical training guides and equipment are all on board and ready to go.

A Double X send-off like no other

I received one unforgettable send-off from employees several months ago. I felt such an outpouring of love as I made my way around the facility to meet with all the teams and share in their special version of a Double X send-off.

Words cannot express how grateful I am for such a wonderful experience. For some of the highlights, check out Double X Photo Album 1.

Powered by good wishes

In fact, so many family members, friends and colleagues have shared their support and good wishes for this adventure. It has been heart-warming.

We’ve captured some memorable photos, such as those taken at a recent open house event we hosted for local Bay area friends and long-time school buddies in Double X Photo Album 3, and will be posting more as we get them, so be sure to check back.

The adventure begins

Launch day was unforgettable with a helicopter flying overhead, camera dangling off the nose to capture all the excitement, and well-wishers on the dock and up on the Marin Headlands holding bon voyage banners cheering us on as we sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge.

We’ve posted a few photos with highlights of all the launch day excitement in Double X Photo Album 4. But, check back often as we’ll be posting more soon.

Excited to learn, and eager to share

Nutrilite™ Double X supplement has gone around the world to help people lead healthier lives. Now, as we have set sail on the Double X, named in tribute to that remarkable product, I can’t wait to report back to you on what we find as we return to familiar places and meet new people.[pullquote]I can’t wait to report back to you on what we find as we return to familiar places and meet new people.[/pullquote]

I am especially eager to find out what people are doing right to achieve and maintain optimal health as well as lead more sustainable lifestyles. In addition, I have brought many books with me (both physical and digital) to read during the voyage and look forward to sharing insights with you.

Taking the first step

As the famous philosopher Lao-Tze said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” This first step for us was certainly a big one, but it’s just the start.

We are looking forward to what the next steps bring and sharing what we find with you. Keep us in your thoughts.

With love,