Where I’ve Been and Where I’m Going

Returning to the United States

I’ve been back in the United States for seven weeks. And what a fabulous seven weeks it’s been!  I’ve been in Southern California, Oregon, Arizona, Louisiana, and Virginia.

In California, reconnecting with my Mom, my sister, and Jamie was so nice.  I celebrated my 44th birthday with family and a lovely home-cooked meal. Soon, I was off to New Orleans to celebrate Halloween with my best friends.  Shortly after, I made a whirlwind trip through Oregon and reconnected with friends there.  And the same in Tucson, Arizona.

After returning to Southern California, I knew I had to make a decision about where to go next.  And while I was making decision and working out logistics, I was so fortunate to be in the loving company of my supportive mother.

The Value of Friends and Familiarity

When I lived in Portland, I was fairly antisocial.  Ironically, I’ve always been a homebody!  Reconnecting with friends was just what the doctor ordered.  I never appreciated my friends and family like I do now.

Familiarity, which I once held in disdain for it’s predictability and monotony, is now a sweet elixir.  Being around people who know me, where no story has to be told, is as sweet as honey.  Never to be taken for granted again!  I am so thankful for all the wonderful people in my life and for the support and love I received while visiting.

A Decision is Made

Based on the time of year, my (dwindling) budget, recommendations, and intuition I chose SE Asia as my next destination.

After this lovely visit with my sister in Virginia, I will be flying into Phnom Penh, Cambodia.  I’ll then have 100 days in SE Asia before I am due to meet my mother in Nepal in March.  We’ll be in Nepal for a couple of weeks before heading off to Barcelona, a place I insist my mother see if for no other reason than to see La Sagrada Familia.  From there we will part ways and I will go to Crete to join in the Easterdays celebration and my Mom will return home.  At least that’s the plan.  But, as I know by now, plans change quickly when traveling.

Other than booking a hotel for the first three days in Cambodia, I have no plan for the next 100 days.  I have no idea what I might be getting myself into.  I am anxious and scared and simultaneously excited and optimistic.

And so I’ll delve into Cambodia wide-eyed and open to what comes.  I hope you’ll join me!

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