Since I wasn’t able to blog along the way (original flight out Nashville was cancelled and rebooked, making all of my connections tight), below is a compilation of random thoughts and events along the way. By the time you read this, I’ll be in Cape Town.
- Saying goodbye to my family was the hardest thing that I have done in my adult life.
- There was a “loud talker” on the Nashville to DC flight. I know waaaay more about that guy than I ever wanted to know. He truly needed to find and cultivate his “inside voice.”
- Dulles is the worst international airport in which I have traveled. It is so confusing and not user-friendly.
- Snow was on the ground in DC (hence my flight cancelation in Nashville); it will probably be the last time I see snow in a while. I’m OK with that. 🙂
- On the transatlantic flight, I had two seats to myself. Yay!
- I watched “Ice Age” and did some reading, but I slept most of the way to South Africa. I guess I was tired.
- I’m now in Johannesburg waiting for my flight to Cape Town. I’m burning up. It’s time to shed the winter clothes, but I’ll wait until I get home. I’ll arrive around 11:00 tonight.
- I met a delightful woman who was in Washington for the inauguration. She lives in Durban and invited me to visit her.
- I hear children playing and their laughter. Some things are universal and priceless.
It’s great to be back on African soil. I’m blessed to call it home for the next three years.
Adventures in Living 
Love this! How great to have two seats for that long flight. Ha about needing to shed your winter clothes now that you’ve been transported directly to summer (without passing go)!
Thanks! You know me; I’m loving being back in summer.
Nicole,
some times thoughts that appear to be random are just waiting for others to fill in the gaps. Thanks for sharing this time of transition with us. Although it was a 16-hour flight, you have been transported from the last chapter of your life to the next chapter. Godspeed and Blessings,
Agatha
Hi Nicole. I was thrilled to see you say, “It’s time to shed the winter clothes, but I’ll wait until I get HOME [emphasis mine]. I’ll arrive around 11:00 tonight.” What a wonderful, loving attitude, declaring that home is the place to which you are headed. Peace be with you!
Thanks, Cynthia. I truly feel at home here. Everyone is so welcoming, and my new South African family is taking wonderful care of me.
It is a joy to be able to share your journey and experiences in your new surroundings. Can’t wait to hear more.
Thanks, Bets!
So glad you are finally there and feeling at home! How ironic that your last image in the U.S. was a snow scene! (Now I can wish for snow without feeling guilty for ruining your day!) I know you will come alive in the summertime of South Africa. Be gentle with yourself as you transition into all things new.
Thanks, Sandy. Now I can hope you can get some snow too!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us all. Know that you continue to be in my prayers. – Marti
Thanks for the prayers, Marti!
God bless you, Nicole. You have a big cheering section out here, praying for you and eager to accompany you on this grand adventure of grace. Godspeed!
Nicole, so glad to know you arrived safely in South Africa. I thought about you several times last week and lifted prayers for you. Many blessings as you continue your exciting journey. –Anne