Final Countdown

After a long weekend spent with my backpacks and some ziplock baggies, I am completely packed! I have spent so long pondering what I would take with me, it’s crazy that packing is done. I’ve debated for hours, considering how many pairs of shoes to bring (only 3? How will I survive!?!), whether I really need both a poncho and a rain jacket, how many changes of clothes you really need to survive, and finally the day has come. I now own every divider and small bag known to man, but it will help with the organization. I didn’t even need to sit on the backpack to get it closed – one quick zip and packing was done. My whole world can now fit in 100L (a 70L big backpack and a 30L daypack). Everything has multiple uses, from the travel towel that can double as a blanket to the dental floss/laundry line. I’m sure I’ve forgotten something important but as I’ve said before – as long as I have myself, the rest can be replaced – yes, even the passport!

All the hours spent pouring over tour options, flights, hotel and prep work, and it's finally all coming together. Years of saving money, putting together budgets, in the hopes that I would have the ability to fulfill this dream. I have been so lucky that my friends and family have listed to me for so long, giving me advice or opinions on where I should go and how long I should stay - I know it can't be easy to listen to the same thing over and over again! When I tell people I am going on this trip, I get one of two reactions. They either tell me that they are jealous and wish they could go, or they tell me that I am crazy and that I'm throwing my money away. I suppose everyone is entitled to their opinions, but I guess it is no surprise that I see this as one of the most amazing opportunities in my life. When I am an old and wrinkly, at least I can tell my grandkids I used to be cool!

I have four short days now until my world changes completely. I will complete my last few days of work, turn in my laptop and fly off into the sunset. Thinking about not working is such an impossible dream – I’ve had a job since I was 15 working at the veterinary hospital with Alex, I’ve spent 7 ½ years working at my current job, and now I’m going to be in spending mode instead of savings mode. I know I am so incredibly lucky to have this opportunity, thinking about it just boggles my mind. Life is an adventure and you never know where it’s going to take you. Where will I see, what will I experience, who will I meet? I don’t know – but I’m excited to find out.