Time is passing frustratingly slowly although I seem to be achieving next to nothing in terms of getting things sorted for the trip. The only thing that has become a bit of a concern is getting all the vaccinations sorted out. I really do need to get registered at the local doctors but things at work are so busy I can't afford to take any time off.
Christmas is creeping up on me however, which should provide some sort of escape. Nowhere near as prepared as I normally am for Christmas but that may be a good thing. Those who know me well will probably realise that I am a Christmas junkie and always go totally over the top. This year however it promises to be a bit of a low-key affair with our departure imminent. We can't afford to go over the top with other people's presents and any present we might receive will have to be practical rather than exciting - no remote control car this year then! Having said all that though, it will still be an enjoyable time and perhaps something we will look back on as a memorable day spent with family. It certainly will be great to spend some time with Maddy and Amelie (our two nieces) before we go away.
All leaving parties are organised and it's getting to the stage where I'm thinking that when I do things or see people it might be the last time I do them or see them for a while. Example - I have to go to Manchester next week to see the office up there. It's the only chance I'll get before I leave. Am I sad? The honest answer is no and I don't mean that to sound in any way rude or cold. With every passing of moments like that it means that we're nearing leaving on our dream and that I'm afraid means it's exciting saying goodbye to people. Things I'm sure will be different when it comes to saying goodbye to family and close friends. Only time (of which we painfully have too much) will tell! Thankfully all my colleagues have now been advised that I'm leaving so I can be a bit more open at work and start sorting things out for after I've left. It may not seem like much but this has come as a major relief.
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