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Sometimes it’s the unexpected moments and unplanned sessions that end up being the most memorable. On a recent road trip through Italy, Roderick Pijls had all his gear packed and ready in his van for just such a session.
I’ve always believed that work and passion don’t have to be on opposite ends of the scale. For me, they go hand in hand – or maybe board in hand, to be more accurate.
I just got back from a work trip in Sicily, a beautiful island with so much to offer. The project was intense but fulfilling, with so many impressions, so many hours on the water, and amazing smiles for many different people. But as always, while I was ticking off my to-do list, I kept one eye on the forecast. Not just in Sicily, but also on the route home.
While driving towards the ferry at Palermo I checked the forecast once more. Sure enough, conditions near Pisa lit up… perfect for foiling. So I did what I always do: messaged a friend who lives near Pisa, took a small detour, pulled the van off the road, popped up the rooftop tent, and dialed in a sweet session. The wind was just too good to let pass without taking advantage of it – strong enough for the foil, a bit inconsistent, but completely worth breaking up the road trip for – meeting up with an old friend, dialing a session in, getting a good Italian pasta and continuing the drive.
This kind of balance has become my rhythm. Whether I’m heading to an event, a shoot, or a meeting, my van is always packed with gear, just in case. It’s not about escaping work – it’s about Living it Fully – making room for those spontaneous moments that recharge me. Combining both of these worlds gives me more energy to push harder in both.
The van has become more than just a mode of transport – it represents freedom, flexibility, and the ability to adapt. I’m not just driving from point A to B. See it as if I’m chasing opportunities – on land and on water.
Sicily was inspiring. The work I was involved in there reminded me how lucky I am to be able to spend so much time on the water and in nature. But the session near Pisa reminded me why I fell in love with this lifestyle in the first place. It wasn’t scheduled, it wasn’t part of the plan – and that’s exactly why it was so good.
These in-between moments, the unexpected sessions, the quiet sunrises after a long drive… they keep me grounded. They fuel the fire. And every time I get back behind the wheel or my laptop or at an event, salty and smiling, I know I’m exactly where I need to be.
I’m already looking forward to the next detour… ■
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