on leaving america

We are leaving the U.S. As of now, it hasn't quite hit me. Despite all the reading we've done, the conversations we've had, the preparations we've made, I don't think anything can prepare us for such a big move. I hope we can get in the groove of letting go of control and trusting that everything will work out -- because I'm sure each stage of our journey will be full of challenges.

Even this first stage -- preparation -- has been tough. We just spent about 3 hours and too much money buying last-minute travel necessities, and just those trips to the mall and through commercial spaces left me worn out. I've turned into a curmudgeon, and I'm only 27!

Another recent challenge: packing our bags. We had to squeeze all our worldly possessions into two oversize duffles, two regular duffles, two carry-on suitcases, and two backpacks. That seems like a lot of room, but it isn't when you have a huge library and tons of accumulated crap. But we overcame that task and even managed to fit everything in our trusty Honda Fit!

our car, filled with our crap

Another challenge: saying goodbye to family and friends. Though I've tried to remain stoic about goodbyes, claiming that relationships won't change because of technology, I realize that's only partially true. Technology is helpful, but it can't replace face-to-face interaction. 

A final challenge: saying goodbye to the comforts of American life. This pic says it all... Family and American businesses that we love!

tim and chris getting their favorite caffeinated refreshments

More later -- love, mel