September 24th 2012 Toronto. I think this will be my last ‘trip’ blog for now…I’m in Toronto and currently awaiting my flight home. I arrived early enough last night, to a clear sky, but gales of wind…and they were not warm. I did pack warm clothed and I’m glad of it now. However, yesterday I stood outside waiting for my hotel shuttle wrapped in a black and orange flowered sarong up top and a purple one below and I still couldn’t warm up. I guess the sandals didn’t help any. BUT, I’ve held on to that summer feeling until the last minute. Therefore I cannot have any regrets whatsoever. The sun is shining, the sky is blue, and it’s Monday morning, a promising start already. Well, for me, the adventure continues. Going away and celebrating my 40th abroad in the sun, as desired, has done something. I wish to continue this…growth, this exploration, and this sense of contentment I have whirling within me. Sometimes life does surprises you in ways you didn’t anticipate. And changes are interesting, eye opening, and provide an opportunity to move in a different direction. All is well Diane Sunday September 23rd 2012 The morning came too quickly for one. And it was odd to walk into the airport, receive my papers, hug Aviva, exchange words of friendship, hug Aviva once more, and start my journey back. It has been such a wonderful trip for me. I feel that I have done more in one week abroad than I have done in one month at home. I am fortunate to have shared in Aviva’s family holiday with Michael and Marsha. I am fortunate to travel to Bonaire and to be introduced to its incredible blue waters with a stay at the Bellafonte thus making a Caribbean vacation seem like a living dream. I am fortunate to have taken the time to think twice about kite boarding and opting for a licensed scuba diving course offered just around the corner from our second home, the Dive Hut. I am fortunate to have met some incredible and fun people at Wanna Dive. This enabled Aviva and I to be and to feel a part of a group, to enjoy various conversations, and to partake in dining out a couple of times and having a good time. It really did feel like summer all over again. I am fortunate to have met Aviva a few years back in Nursing school. We traveled well in 2009 when we went to Italy. And we had a great time this trip as well. We have shared many new experiences, many laughs, and some good conversations, leaving each other to ponder a few things now and then. Yes, it’s been good. Terribly good. And this morning, I waited for my plane, not excited and not upset, I simply waited and I wondered what new adventures are awaiting me now. A young man came up to me and asked me for my boarding pass. I was asked to follow him past the crowd. To walk out through the doors and to head towards the plane. I said, I’m heading to Aruba. He said, yes we know. You are the only passenger. Enjoy the flight. I was greeted by the crew and I chose a seat. And I had a plane ride all to myself. Ha! Who knew! I think I’m off…to a great start!