My massage therapist is doing that ride this dummer (B.C. to Newfoundland)
Wah!..... no massage therapist. She has her own business, so she can close up shop for 3 months. I am totally envious.

About 8 years ago, I tried to convice my husband to get someone to replace him at his job (he is a physio, 1/3 partner in 2 clinics), rent out our house and go live in Whistler B.C. for a year. (I love to ski) He told me I was impractical. So we never did. But I still wish I had. Life experience. And it would have only for a year. Kids were still in elementary school. Life is too short. I think if you have planned it out well, it is not that big of a risk. And what an experience in return.

I'd ask for a sabbatical, LOA,whatever. I'd work extra. And if that is a dream of yours, I say go for it. Make it happen.