Every journal begins with that first blank page – the one that cries out to be filled with something important – but nothing important has happened yet.

Earlier this year, I drove from Erie, PA (my hometown) to Naples, FL (my sunny temporary home) and while doing so, I listened to my iPod and connected with one song in particular Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield. I sang this song over and over and over again and by the time I’d crossed the Georgia border, this song and I had bonded forever.

So when I feel lonely, disconnected or lost – when I wake up is a strange bed wondering – for a moment – where I am – I will play this song – sing it out loud and remember how lucky I am to be taking this journey. Then I will be at peace. And heck…it’s a great song!

Saying goodbye to my family was as hard as I knew it would be. I was so lucky to have spent the past month with my parents. They’re a lot of fun. My Mom calls the Florida Condo “Camp Audubon”.

They have a group of friends who like to do the same things they do – golf, tennis, dinner and drinks. It’s so much fun – it’s exhausting! They have all welcomed me with open arms to Camp Audubon and I’d like to take this opportunity to let them know how much I appreciate their kindness and friendship. Phil, Vendy, Marie and Matt – it’s been a hoot and I can’t wait to see all of you in person next year!

During my last days in Naples, my sister (Colby) arrived with my niece (Lexi) , nephew (Chad) and husband (John) for their annual migration to the sun for 10 days. Being able to spend these last few days with them has been a gift.

Now the best thing about this trip will be sharing it with friends and family so to this end, I’ve purchased every electronic gadget that I think will allow me to share video and pictures – to call phone to phone – or computer to computer. I joke that I have with me more cords and cables then I do underwear! No lie! But it’s all worth it if I can share the adventure.

So, here I sit in the Miami Airport. I’ve spent the last 20 minutes re-packing my backpack so that everything I “might” need is on the top – like this is realistic. I know I’ll need whatever is at the bottom. But I’ve tried and I don’t have anything else to do right now. It’s 6:35pm and my flight leaves at 7:50pm.   My brother-in-law has provided me with the necessary items for a good nights sleep (thank you John!) and my niece, Lexi, has written me a note that I’ll read several times again before I drop off for the night. I love my family. Next stop…Zurich!