Well, all day we spent packing, and purging and packing.  I thought our bags had to be under 44 lbs each and was a bit worried, cause while my pack only weighed 30lbs, my suitcase was about 50.  However, I found out that they just have to be less than 50 so we are now good to go!

The last week has definitely been an emotional roller coaster.  We definitely are excited to start traveling and get going but it has been hard for me to say good-bye to everyone.  You get a feeling of extreme guilt for some reason when saying your farewells.  I think I feel most guilty over leaving our cat, Patches, as she is going to be inundated with change - a dog she hates, and a new house to get used to.  Hard when you are 16 years old!

I had a lovely goodbye party at work, a lovely birthday party with friends, a family BBQ and several visitors over the last week.  It’s been very touching to see everyone - gives you a sense of how many friends you really have, and also how many you are saying goodbye to.  I just started saying ‘see you later’ as it really was less upsetting!  Work gave me a lovely Coach bag to take with me which I am definitely looking forward to traveling with.  I credit my good friend Melissa with that pick.

Anyway, if you’re reading this post chances are I had to say goodbye to you in the last little while… let me tell you that no matter my reaction at the time it was a very difficult thing!  Please look us up on Skype (look up Bryce’s name), send us mail or send a Facebook message from time to time.  I will be jealous of all the fun times I am missing at home - but hope to make you all a little jealous of the fun we’re having abroad :)

Keep reading and I’ll keep posting (especially long entries for my Aunt Carol!!!)

Lots of love to you all.  xoxo