I'm gonna confess this right here and now, because this will color all my posts to come. It's not a really a secret, but it still horrifies some folks.
I hate traveling.
I mean, I love having traveled once I'm back. I love the fact that I've had new experiences and I appreciate the change in world view. I especially love seeing natural wonders that blow my mind. But the fact is, I'm still slightly scared of flying, packing is a nightmare, and I am afraid of the unfamiliar. I don't like crowds. I don't like depending on the kindness of strangers, no matter how heartening it is. I like knowing where everything is and being in control. And the whole I'm-a-tourist thing takes me right back to growing up in a tourist town and remembering how tourists drove us nuts, despite their economic benefits.
But mostly I like being in control. In my place.
So, this trip, my first month-long excursion to anywhere, is major for me. I've never been away from my life for so long. But I'm forcing myself to do it, because it will be good for me, great for the kids, wonderful overall...and only an idiot would turn down this chance.
But as we go through this month of posts, keep in mind that I'm not really a jet-set euro-fabulous travel mama.
I so feel you.
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