Dear Avery,
The first and only time I was in Europe, I was traveling on barge through the countryside of France. At 17, I appreciated the beauty but spent a lot of the time roaming the small towns looking for any food remotely close to American. I found it: Ham and cheese baguette or better known in French, “jambon et fromage”. I literally only ate that. As you can see, I wasn’t terribly adventurous. (But MAN, do I wish I had that opportunity again at the age of 31: sipping wine and enjoying every inch of the countryside. I’ll do it again one day…)
But you know what’s cool? I’m not the same person I was at 17. I’m at a point in my life where I’m pushing myself out of my comfort zones and taking risks. Big and small.
So, with that, I booked a solo trip to Amsterdam.
I head out to New York City for a work trip, and then hop on over to Europe. With a couple things scheduled like touring Anne Frank’s house, a bike tour around the city, and finding a pub to watch the World Cup… but really, I’ve got nothing major planned.
I’m going to wander.
I’m going to hop on a boat at some point and cruise the canals.
I might catch a train to Belgium.
I’m going to walk around a take a million photos with my canon.
I’m looking forward to finding a random bench along the canal – maybe to write? maybe to sit and be present?
I’m going to find a random street market and roam.
I’m going to take my time.
I’m going to take it all in.
That’s my plan. Or lack thereof. We shall see what comes of this little adventure. I hope to come back to you with various stories: funny stories, stories were I got lost but found my way back, stories about what I’ve learned about myself, awkward tourist stories…
Am I scared? Hell yeah.
Am I anxious? You bet.
But we only get this one life — so fear and anxiety can take a backseat this time around.
Wish me luck.
With love,
Aunt Megs
With Love, Aunt Megs 