Well the countdown is on. I’m at YVR in the gorgeous international flights lounge area, enjoying the aboriginal art and sculpture, ready to head out on my trip to Europe. I’ve been doing a LOT of planning and preparing…and now it really feels like I need a holiday. I’m leaving my cozy island home and travelling on my own to Europe. The first 5 weeks will be to Switzerland, Germany, Spain and Portugal. Then I’ll meet with my father, son, sister, and nephew in Italy for a few weeks. The last month will be solo again in France, the UK, and who knows where else……

Europe is expensive, we know that, so I’ve joined 2 organizations that are great worldwide ‘communities’.  Members host other travellers in their homes for 2 days at a time, (when they’re not on the move themselves)… and it’s gratis. Servas has been around for over 50 years and promotes world peace by supporting intercultural connecting through travel. Couchsurfing is it’s modern relative, and it has a fabulous and easy to navigate website. Check them both out online. I’ll be meeting locals this way and hopefully immersing myself into their culture. I also have friends I’ll be re-uniting with in a few countries, and that is sweet to look forward to.

This has been a long-time dream of mine…to go for an extensive stay in Europe. You should see how many art,  history, and travel books I’ve been poring over in the last 2 years. I’m intrigued with it all and long to see the vistas, art and architecture, meet the people, hear the music, and taste new foods. Not to mention regional wines and beer…oh, that’s nice too. Nature will be my nurturer, as I will miss my family, friends, and community. Send me messages and hugs please….anytime.

But I’m determined, and positive, and nervous, and excited…and all those things you feel when you’re leaping into a new adventure. You know how that is…..you want something so much….you’ve just gotta make it happen….so you just keep saying YES!  I’m 54, and leaving my comfort zone. And here I go. I’ve got my 18″ backpack on wheels, with my yoga mat, (have mat will travel y’know), and my shoulder bag with my teeny computer friend on board. With the latter,  I can continue doing my online job as a homelearning consultant….gonna keep that money flowing in…..and I  can keep in touch with all of you. Anyone who wants to subscribe to this blog is invited to join, and you’ll receive an email each time I post. Otherwise, just visit whenever.

Much love….be well and happy….Jill