My First Entry Caroline x

So, I’ve just handed in my letter of resignation to work, we’ve booked the first half of the flights and yes it is an amazing opportunity but oh my god am I bricking it!

I’m Caroline, 19 from Bristol in England, not quite as sunny as Birmingham but it’s a close call!

Wow, what an amazing opportunity. I bet you’re so excited?

The 19^th January 2007 is our departure date (had to change because of flight availability but it’s only a couple of days difference) and right now that seems like its miles away and still unreal. All anyone is saying to me is “what an amazing opportunity. I bet you’re so excited?” Well yes I am and I’ll talk to anyone who will listen about where we’re going and when (by the time I’ve finished most people wish they hadn’t asked) but what no one seems to understand is how petrified I am!

8 months around the world. Who could say no to that? Now in the final stages of planning and it’s all becoming very real and very exciting. So why did I decide to do it? That’s the million dollar question!

My first holiday away from the parents was my 2 week trip to France to stay with friends of the family and at 10 years old I loved every minute, meeting new people, seeing new and interesting things, a different country and a different lifestyle, (although fairly similar to our own.)

With my dad unable to fly (health reasons) we never really went abroad as a child so it was those fantastic holidays to Dawlish Warren in Devon (England) every summer for our family, (wouldn’t change it for the world) but for various reasons I can add my country counter to 5 (6 if Scotland counts but as I’m so close to them not sure?) but I want more!

With family in New Zealand I’ve never met I’ve been itching to get over there. All I ever hear from my Nan and aunt is how beautiful it is and looking at their pics I believe them but want to see for myself. And why the rest of the world? Why not! I’ve always been a curious kind of girl and can’t wait to see what else is out there. So now I’m doing it!

I’m nervous, excited, worried but really can’t wait. I’m counting down the days to leaving work and waiting for the serious nerves to kick in, I’m almost ready to go!

So all that’s left to say is wish me luck and I hope to keep you all updated on my progress as much as poss through the blog.

See you all in 8 months!

Caroline x