I’ve been putting this off for ages and I decided that it’s been long enough and I need to update my blog!
However, as it’s me and I can ramble on for ages (which some people like and some don’t), I’ll try to sum up as quickly as possible.
The trip from Vancouver to Amsterdam was fine – the lady at the check-in counter was so helpful and really sweet – she completely restored my faith in KLM. I was one of the last people off the plane in Amsterdam – I find it easier to just wait than to brain someone with my laptop or backpack. And as I walked along the terminal, I realized that my mum and I hadn’t worked out where to meet! Luckily at that moment I saw her standing just past the ‘escalator’ I was on.
It was fantastic – my cousin had organised a hotel for us and we checked in then wandered a bit. Eventually we made our way to Amsterdam city where I took lots of photos of buildings and we went to Madame Tussaud’s. It was so much fun wandering around with my mum! We headed back to the hotel and met up with my cousin – that was fantastic – I haven't seen her in ages! We had a lovely dinner at the hotel, catching up and just enjoying each other’s company. I almost didn’t want to sleep because I’d lost time with them.
Flight to Joburg was fine – I’d been given a window seat – amazingly! I divided my time between movies, reading and staring out the window – though you can only stare at the Sahara for so long. I’m just sorry that night fell as we reached the equator – I would’ve loved to have seen that area. It did feel like the flight was taking forever. At one point, I was totally convinced that my watch had stopped! My luggage all arrived safely – all 3 pieces! – and I managed not to leave any of my hand luggage behind… It was kinda cool being at Joburg Arrivals at night because it was almost completely empty. My dad and uncle picked me up from the airport – so good to see them again! And being surrounded by South African’s accents…! It took me a while to adjust and understand everyone again – even now, I’m not fully into the accent again, but I’m better at asking for clarification!
My cousin warned me about reverse culture shock and I’m so glad she did, otherwise I think I would’ve been more of a basketcase. Even though I grew up here, I felt so comfortable and completely ‘at home’ in Vancouver. It’s been great recognising food again, but I find myself craving a Starbucks hot chocolate (naturally!) and Japanese (strangely enough…)! For all that I could never decide what to eat in Canada, I’m missing the variety.
Since I got home, I’ve spent some time visiting and catching up with friends, lots of time just being at home and playing with Lottie. I had a 3-week temp job in June and have finally found a permanent job – in Howick! I’m really excited about it and I’m looking forward to being a ‘responsible adult’!
So all the entries from now on will be the truly boring, everyday events that I feel compelled to share… ;) After all, that is the point of this blog!
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