Packing in a duffel bag

So friends, this is it. My flight goes at 11:30 tomorrow and, despite some major reservations, I will be on it.

And so, time to pack. I spent some time at the Army and Navy store, as well as Mark's Work Warehouse and pretty much every other equipment store making sure I have everything I will need to fight off the bears. Despite one little breakdown in the sleeping bag isle, I feel I have been doing pretty well. I even went so far as to buy hiking boots, something I never would have for-seen myself having six months ago.But as I stare blankly at the empty canvas duffel bag on my bedroom floor, I can't help but think; "Will my sash and crown fit in there?".

But, as much as I will miss my hair straighter, blow dryer, stiletto heels, makeup and all the rest of it, I am the most excited to shed all of it for 2 months and live free of judgement. Unless of course mosquitoes and clapping beetles care what I look like, in which case I will be sending for some mascara and blush (and maybe a ball gown or two). This experience will definitely make camping at Alouette seem mighty comfortable!

Plenty of family and friends have joked with me about this big adventure, and I laughed along with them not quite realizing how big this endeavor really is for me. I have been away from home before, sure and I now live pretty much alone on UBC campus, so I do feel I am fairly independent. However there is something much bigger to this experience than I was willing to face before. I am travelling completely out of my comfort zone and I will not be able to hop on a skytrain or bus and be back in my bubble within the hour  That has become the scariest part for me. I have no doubts that I will end up enjoying myself and meet a lot of great people, but for now that is overshadowed by the longing to stay with my blanket and bottle in Maple Ridge. But I am going to do this, and give it all I've got! Who knows, maybe I'll meet a nice bear and become best friends like Christopher Robin and Winnie the Pooh. Wish me luck!!