Home & Goodbyes 🇦🇺

Today is my final day in Australia for the next 12 months. Although I have a lot to look forward to, I also have a lot to look back on.

The last couple of weeks have been filled with incredible family experiences and wholesome moments that I will cherish throughout my journey and for the rest of my life. My sister got married a week ago in a beautiful celebration, alongside a man I now proudly call my brother. With our family continuing to grow, it was amazing to meet so many of its newest members, as well as finally meet parts of my dad’s side of the family who had travelled all the way from the US.

Despite the incredible last few weeks, the ups and downs of my year are perhaps best highlighted by the contrast between the aforementioned wedding and the painful experience of attending my first funeral - and, to that point, the two I experienced this year. Both were incredibly special occasions under the circumstances.

Only six months into 2023, and already it has been a year of firsts, for better or for worse. Continuing that theme, I have taken the leap and decided to disappear to Europe and Africa for the next 12 months. Leaving is made a little easier knowing I was able to spend my final moments with Nan before she passed, giving me some peace of mind while I’m away - though I would much rather she were still here.

In light of the special moments 2023 has given me so far, I’ve chosen some of my favourites to include in the photos of this post.

All of these circumstances make leaving that little bit more bittersweet, but I’m trying to focus on the positives. The last few weeks have been the perfect opportunity to say goodbye to the people I love and prepare for the next chapter of my life.

I’ll miss Australia, my bed, my friends, and my family - but above all else, I’ll miss my parents. I love you guys.

My first destination is Singapore, which will serve as an extended stopover and my first taste of the backpacking lifestyle. I’ll be spending two days there, and I expect most of that time will be spent running around trying to see as much as possible.

Stay posted, and you’ll find out how I fare.Read more