Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Just a Couple of Days Left...

I'm sitting at the Hotel Old Quarter in Amsterdam.  I just ordered a Dutch steak - not quite sure what that is.  Are the cows different here?  I just got a message from a dear friend of mine that said "You're travelling the world."  Wow.  I am.  I have.  It's easy to get so caught up in life and simply forget how amazing my life truly is.  Messages like this remind me to just stop and take in all in.

Today I found myself worried about how in the world I was going to get all of my loot from my travels into my suitcases.  Just so you know, you would worry, too, if you saw me on the train with my overstuffed backpack weighing at least 40 kilos, my broken laptop bag, gigantic purse, three shopping bags and box of 3 highly sought after bottles of Cantillon Gueze.  But, I am quickly reminded that - whoa - I woke up in Brussels this morning and am going to sleep in Amsterdam tonight.  Three years ago I would never have thought I would have a year like this.  I took a chance, went back to school and met a great friend named Leslie.  Even though she is a few years my junior, she gave me some of the best advice I have ever received.  Leslie told me to stop making excuses.  Don't let the conventional ties in every day life keep you from taking a risk and living your dreams.

I know what you're thinking:  Easier said than done.  I thought the same thing.  I still remember the day I called my mom and told her I wanted to put all my stuff in storage and move home.  I wasn't even sure what I would do next, but I knew I was giving myself the option to make a choice.  I didn't even know if my mom would agree.  Thankfully, she did!

It's been just over two years since I put my "things" in a 12x12 cement room - and I haven't looked at them since.  Don't get me wrong.  Sometimes I miss my stuff.  The Christmas trees, Waterford wine glasses and skads of home decorations are all some of my favorite parts of my settled life.  But, in the 24 months that have passed since I put these things away, I have traded them for 6 countries, countless cities, incredible new friends, adventures, moments of sheer terror, and even more moments of absolute delight.

As I wind up my latest trip and prepare to return home, I can't help but feel a little proud of myself.  Not necessarily for what I've done, but for learning that I can.  I can do whatever it is I want to do.  That's inspiring and a bit nerve-wracking all at once!

Oh, by the way, I've just finished my dinner (I'm writing this all on a napkin to type up later).  I love mustard as much as the next guy, but you have to love a country that serves mayo with french friends and mustard with cheese.  And yes, I think the cows here in Holland are better!

A few pics from the last couple of weeks...