Today was filled with stress, sadness, and fear…but, most of all excitement.  As I write this, I’m sitting at Sea-Tac airport waiting to board my flight to Houston and on to Belize.  This will be my first destination in the coming nine weeks.

The stress was about ensuring that I got everything done and didn’t forget anything.  Minor fail on that…as I walked by the United Club Room I realized that I left my free passes at home.  When I get to Los Angeles (the airport I intended to use one of them), I’ll ask if they can just look my account up.  And, if that’s the only thing I’ve forgotten this will be a great evening.

The fear is about the unknown.  I have never been away from home this long and especially not while traveling internationally.  I’ve planned as much as I can…because I’m a planner.  But, there are still a ton of open questions.  My hope is that all the unknowns will make this adventure even better.

I probably don’t have to explain my excitement.  Who wouldn’t be excited to start a journey they’ve been planning for almost a year.  A journey that will allow me countless writing/photography opportunities for my travel blog.  A journey that will test my character.  A journey that will show me things I’ve never seen before and adventures that are beyond my imagination.

And the sadness…how can I be sad?  Well, I had to hug my furry kids and tell them good-bye.  They had know idea what was happening, but I could sense their stress…especially my oldest.  I know they will be well taken care of, but I’m also realistic…no one will take care of them as good as me.

All of these emotions are a bit of a roller-coaster, but I’m going to enjoy the ride.