Another chapter just closed. I’ve got a little in between period that I’m spending at my parents’ place, trying to catch up on 3,5 years worth of photos. Now I love working on my albums, trying to bring together all my memories in a book. It also brings back a lot of memories, thoughts and feelings. I know that the year isn’t nearly finished yet, but I need a moment to stand still and think about all the things I’ve experienced this year. There were a lot of ups and downs and a lot of changes. Some things seem so long ago, and yet have only been this year. About time to put it all together, a highlight reel of my year so far. If you look at it like this, it’s pretty damn good.
I started the year in Christchurch, a city I’d never thought to live in, but which became my home in no time. I have never felt so much at home anywhere else. Even though I was mostly working my ass off and getting over being dumped, I had the best summer here.
I mean, I got this close to Dave Grohl!
While I was living in Christchurch, I also made sure to check out my surroundings and did amazing things in Hanmer Springs, Kaikoura and the Lewis pass.
And after working really hard, of course it was time to play hard. I could finally take my van on a big road trip. I loved living on the road, all my things with me, cooking outside every night, meeting other travellers. I met some truly amazing people, who inspired me and made me think. I challenged myself and got over my fears (or at least lived with them and didn’t let them hold me back). Such a short trip can still change everything.
Even though I’m not nearly done with New Zealand I made my way home in April for a new adventure. I started training with my fellow newbie tour leaders with G adventures. A week in Italy and a 3,5 week shadow training flew by and then I was off. All summer I moved from place to place, never staying in one spot for too long.
These were crazy times, never too much time to linger. Now I am finally sitting (semi) still and have time to let it all sink in. Looking back I don’t know how I did all this in such a short time. This year still has 2,5 months left and I intend to make the most of them. A new adventure is coming really soon. I’ll be working in Whistler, BC this winter, but before that I have a month of travel time. I wonder where this will take me…
