Time to Begin

“If we wait for the moment when everything, absolutely everything is ready, we shall never begin.” ~Ivan Turgenev

It started with a huge stack of travel magazines under my bed as a kid—a dream to travel the world, going to every country along the way. I had it all planned out by high school. I’d get a good job and save enough to retire at 40 and see the world. But, I didn’t get that far…

I didn’t even reach 30 and I won’t likely make it to every country, but for many reasons, the time is right for me to take off now and see a little more of the world. I’ve thought about it long enough, so I’ve sold/given away most of my belongings, stored what’s left at my parents’, and am off to New Zealand to work on organic farms through WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms). So far, I have five farms lined up for September and October where I’ll work in exchange for room and board. I'll start in the north part of the North Island (New Zealand is primarily made up of two large islands with several smaller islands surrounding them) and work my way south.

Trying to keep everything to two bags

I can stay in New Zealand for up to a year on the “Working Holiday” visa I was granted. After that, I may head to Australia to WWOOF or work there, or else on to Southeast Asia to teach English, which I became certified to do a number of months ago. Ultimately, I would like to spend time on every continent, God willing.

One last bbq before leaving

It’s surreal to be a few days away from living out my longtime dream and bittersweet at the same time. It is hard to leave unbelievably awesome family, friends, and coworkers and a secure job and life, but I am so grateful to have this opportunity. Thanks to everyone who’s shown support for the trip. Can’t wait to share along the way!

Saying bye to friends for a while 

 Fun send-off with fun coworkers