The Wandering Chocoholic

Well, here we are. Less than 24 hours ’til departure.

My flights are checked in. My bags are (mostly) packed, with a little help from Watarimono. My VPN is set up, my Yuan is purchased, I’ve made my lists and checked them (more than) twice. I’m ready to set out on what promises to be quite the adventure.

Of course, I’ll miss things while I’m away. It’s inevitable for anyone who travels. I’ll miss my family and friends, my creature comforts like air conditioning and clean water and bathrooms. I’ll be missing birthdays, festivals and events. (I’ll also miss the first few weeks of what’s shaping up to be one of Canada’s longest and ugliest election campaigns in history, so I can’t say I’m too sorry about that, but there will be plenty more time to rail against Stephen Harper when I get back.) But Montreal has so much happening at all times, it’s often hard to leave. Especially when the weather’s finally become perfect.

But whatever is lost during travel, much more is gained. I’ve never regretted going on a trip, even with all the challenges and highs and lows. The only regrets in life are the missed opportunities, the places not seen, the roads not taken.

So in that spirit, I’m ready for this adventure to begin. China, here I come!