The journey...

Saying goodbye to all the people I love was definitely one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. I know I chose this and I don't 'have' to do it. But for me, somehow I do, even if many don't understand.
My farewell party was great and just perfect as it was. Almost all of my favorite people were there! I was so happy to laugh and cry with everyone again.

Packing on Sunday took the last of my nerves. Going through everything a thousand times, plus the nausea and the huge lump in my throat because I knew I was about to say goodbye to my family. One last meal together, one last cuddle, one last hug and wave.
The last visit from my friend, the last night at home, the last night in my own bed.
The excitement, the fear of the flight, the connections, the unknown, and the final goodbye at the airport from friends and family. But eventually, we got through that too. The lump in my throat returns when I think about it.
I got on that plane, made the transfer in Abu Dhabi after six hours, and endured almost 13 hours on a completely darkened plane. Although it wasn't easy for me because I sometimes didn't get any food. I think everyone can figure out why.
I made it through immigration in Australia, my backpack arrived intact, and the Australians at the airport and on the bus were extremely friendly. So I actually found my hostel and was able to check into my room an hour and a half after landing.
Even though, because of the lump in my throat, I would have preferred to turn around immediately and fly back home. There's no going back now!