There are moments when how you think something is going to be and how it actually is are two completely different things.

I am on my big adventure. Hooray!  At my grand old age, I have planned and now have accomplished getting myself across the ocean.   In the planning stages I didn’t realize how hard it would be to leave my family behind.  I don’t know why it didn’t cross my mind.  I spend almost all day every day with my kids.  As departure day drew near, my eldest daughter and I would spontaneously burst in to tears in anticipation of having to say good bye.  I had to hug my children every time they went by and, probably annoyingly to them, impart wisdom and advice for while I would be gone.  THEN it was the day of departure. Tears and hugs.  More tears and hugs. Then more tears and hugs and kisses.  Even though I was/am committed to this large step out of my comfort zone, it was very hard to get on that plane (especially since I am not a big fan of flying.  I am a feet on the ground girl, literally).  I was pretty sure running screaming out of the airport when my flight was announced wouldn’t have been a good thing.

Now, four days into my journey, I am a little less shocked and overwhelmed. Although,  I will say I have discovered I am really bad at eating on the go.  It will be nice to reach a location that I will be at for more than a day or two.  That being said,  I am in Edinburgh right now.  It is a lovely city.  Walked up to Arthur’s Seat this morning.  It was a fabulous walk.  Amazing view.  Almost got blown over at the top.  I am very glad I did some training before my adventure, because I am positive I would have died on my way up if I hadn’t.  It is definitly a challenge for those of us who live in a more horizontal part of the world.  I am off to complete my touristy day by visiting a castle, a museum and finding some place to have chips and a half pint.