It's Happening Again...

All of my things are being assigned spots in boxes and suitcases, soon to be crammed into my small Toyota. I've acquired a few clothing items since I arrived, but I thought I took enough back to Chicago over the holidays to compensate... I'm not sure I was successful. I'll be shipping the three boxes back to the Windy City once I cross into the U.S. on Sunday, though, so I'll have a little more breathing room in the car.

My Life in Boxes... Again

It feels so along ago that I first packed clothes & personal items into my car. Well, it was seven months ago, so I guess that makes sense... but when I was leaving my hometown this journey felt so daunting. The drive I'm about to embark on is over twice as long as my last road trip, but having people along the way this time makes it feel manageable. Plus, there's that whole 'entry-into-a-foreign-country' thing that I don't have to worry about. 

What feels the same, though, is saying goodbye. I've spent the week in a series of walks, hikes, coffees, & drinks while visiting with friends. I spoke with my sister and she summed it up quite well, "I'm happy that you're sad." I'm happy that I'm sad, too. It's the best feeling I could have imagined those seven months ago when I began this journey. 

My first few days back in the U.S. will be tough, as my departure from Vancouver finally hits me. But I'm leaving under the best circumstances I could imagine... and frankly, feeling pretty proud of myself that I actually did the crazy thing I dreamed of doing.