Well there we have it, I’ve been in Canada for almost 365 days and not only has it been one of the greatest but also one of the hardest rotations around the sun. I do not take this experience for granted and I wouldn’t change any of the choices I’ve made along the way. So far I’ve only shared photos of my time in Canada and although photos are amazing they do not encompass what is behind the photo or the story behind it. My loved ones from Australia often tell me that I look very happy. I am indeed very happy, however I’m not always “happy.” Let me explain. Traveling alone is hard and keep in mind that I had never left Australia so this trip has been a massive eye opener. There are many downs that people do not see and although I will share the great memories on this blog, I would also like to share some of the more challenging times. However this first post will be about leaving Australia and what I was feeling/ thinking at the time.

“Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that’s the one that is going to help you grow.” – Caroline Myss.

The above quote perfectly describes what this first post is about. I would doubt myself and consider waiting another year but then realised I would never truly feel ready to make such a big change in my life.  I remember watching a YouTube video about the Au Pair experience many years ago and was always adamant that it would be something I would do. Being an Au Pair (live in Nanny) would give me many opportunities; to live and work abroad, experience a real cultural exchange and allow me to create such a special and unique bond with a Canadian family.

“Why did you pick Canada?” is a question I would often get asked and my answer wasn’t very complex because initially, I didn’t know a lot about Canada. I knew I wanted an English speaking country to ease myself into traveling and believed that Canadians are a lot like Australians in that they’re easy-going, very kind people and love exploring the outdoors. I have determined that this is all very true as they’re some of the nicest most adventurous people I’ve met. My main response to the “why Canada?” question would be…” “Have you seen photos…” From hiking mountains, crystal blue lakes, the colours of autumn and the towering trees what more could you ask for? But currently come to think of it, right now I’d ask for a beach and the hot sun blazing on my pale white skin because as I’m writing this its literally -28c.  

The final weeks leading up to the 14^th of May were bittersweet and very emotional. Imagine slowly saying goodbye to everyone in your life, knowing that there may be a chance you won’t see them for 2 years. I know I’m not the first person to move away and putting it into words makes it sound very dramatic but for me, I think it’s also the distance. Just knowing that I’m on the other side of the world is a crazy thought. I have the most loving and supportive parents who I appreciate with all my heart. They put on the best going away party and I felt so incredibly blessed and loved.

So that brings us to the 14^th of May! Wow, what a day…a day I lived through twice! I mean this literally because Australia and Canada are completely different time zones so if you’re in Australia your yesterday is my today. I had two layovers, my first was New Zealand and then Los Angeles. I had a very short stopover in LAX so I had to haul ass to the gate to catch my final flight to Vancouver. By the time I got to my gate I was exhausted and emotionally drained. I had a quick facetime with my Mum for the first time since saying goodbye and I cried in the airport sitting next to strangers. How embarrassing!

Finally arrived in Vancouver at 8:30pm and although I was very tired I was running on adrenaline with the feeling of finally being in Canada. I tend to have high expectations and then get let down because they don’t meet those expectations and that’s completely my fault because I shouldn’t put so much pressure on situations. However, all the anticipation and the build-up for this exact moment did not disappoint. After going through customs I received my approved working holiday which felt very official. I then pushed my heavy luggage on a trolley while internally laughing at myself realising how funny I’m sure I looked. My host mum picked me up and as we were walking to the car I started to walk to the driver’s side which is still a regular occurrence and I have a little chuckle to myself every time. The next couple of days weren’t that exciting, we did all the necessary errands like joining a bank, getting a Social insurance number, phone plan and settling in with my host family and learning the routine.

Overall, the journey I took just to get to the start of the real journey was a long yet exciting process. All the paperwork, appointments, time and money spent planning this trip was well worth it. If I can give one bit of advice that I’ve learned so far it would be to not sweat the small stuff. Traveling can be stressful but if you roll with the punches you’ll discover epic adventures, make great memories, meet lifelong friends and develop a new outlook and appreciation for life and people. I will obviously talk more about this in future posts.

Lots of love and always remember, to be present in life.

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