The Big Decision

It's the year 2010 and a lot of changes to my life are about to happen.
I've decided to start a blog, to keep my friends and family updated, because I know how hard it is to stay in touch with everyone all the time. This will give me a means to keep you all connected in my not-so-boring-life.

For years now I've wanted to move out to BC, I've pondered it and wondered how I would make it happen. I'm usually a planner and like to meticulously organize things, but this time around, I've done quite the opposite. I'm winging it. And I'm terrified.

Dad gave me the "talk" about room and board (totally reasonable) but i'm 26 and DESPERATELY want to move out. Not that I don't have freedom, or a great family that I live with. I just want my own space, a place that I built myself. I thought about moving out around Niagara, but I knew that would seal my fate and I'd never be able to save up to make the big move to the West Coast.

So here I am. I've saved every penny possible during the past 2 months, and planned as far ahead as having a place to stay once I'm out there (my brothers)
But beyond that, I don't really have a plan. My philosophy on life is this: do what makes you happy and things will fall into place. I know that I am in my element when i'm out west. I LOVE the outdoors, I love cooking, I love culture and a sense of adventure. Every time I've been out there, its harder to come back to Ontario. I know that the West is where I belong.

Today I started packing my car, I know I don't leave for another 2 weeks, but I'm excited, ok?
Plus I might have to part ways with more items that I think I will, so I guess this will give me an idea of exactly what.
So far my trunk is FULL. Kitchen stuff (pots, pans, utensils, etc) hangers for my clothes, my "file box", cookbooks, spices, pictures, decorative pillows, curtains, 2 lamps, most of my shoes.

I haven't put a single article of clothing in there yet. I have bought vaccuum bags to seal them and create more room, but I honestly think I have to get a rooftop carry case. I still have my pasta maker, more kitchen stuff, toiletries (all my skin care, makeup, hair stuff....bcuz that's expensive to buy) sheets, blankets, all my clothes....etc. Plus I have another person coming with me and she'll need some room.

What scares me the most is actually getting my own place; I haven't done this before (college not included). This is my next life. I won't have ANYthing except my small possessions. But again, I do have confidence in myself and I know that if I want something bad enough I will acquire it. And the fact that I don't have a job yet. I'm literally going there with my resume, determination and high hopes.

This next part is hard.
I'm slowly preparing myself for my goodbyes; grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, friends, best friends, my new little brother and sister whom i've come to love and adore..dad and danielle.....and mom.....and everything that goes with it. Family dinners, hugs when I need them, reassurance.... this is going to be hard. I know this, but I also know there's this intangible element that is drawing me out west.
As the weeks draw on and May 1st gets closer, I allow myself to think of these goodbyes a little more, It would be easier to ignore but I have to come to terms with the reality of it.

As I drive out, I will update as much as I can on my adventures, photos and text included.

Once I'm there, the first person to come visit me gets a 3 course meal and a high 5 !