4 years. 23 countries. 102 cities and towns.
I’ve been sitting in Heathrow these last couple of hours, trying to comprehend just how far we have come, what we have achieved – and more importantly – what comes next for Nikki and I.
It seems like forever since we said our goodbyes and made our way over to Europe, not quite knowing what to expect from a city we had read so much about. And now that our London adventure is over, I’m left with the exact same feeling – leaving for the unknown. Leaving a city that has given me so much. A city that has become home.
I haven’t always felt like this in London. It is amazing how lonely a city of nine million people can feel at times, but there is no doubt that its football mad, fast-paced and diverse culture won me over from day one.
Coming from a country like New Zealand, where anything out of the norm is often judged for being different, the diversity in this place can only be described as incredible. And this is what has always amazed me about London; simple acceptance of everyone, irrespective of who they are, where they come from, or what they believe in. Jump on a tube and within minutes you will find yourself transported across Europe, Asia or the Middle East – English the minority language!
When we made the decision to part ways with London and move back to Kiwiland, what I didn’t realise was the effect that handing in my notice would have. Yes, the missed opportunities that London provides is something that I may soon come to regret, but it is leaving a team that I have become so close to which made it most difficult.
So, this is it. The goodbyes are done, the bags are packed and we're off again.
Flying out of London for the last time, we leave with a tonne of memories, life-long friends and few regrets (although not making it to Twickenham to see the ABs is up there with treason!).
Where we end up next is anyone’s guess, but for now it’s time to take a break back in the Mount, catch up with some friends and figure out our next adventure. See you soon NZ (I know, it’s been a while).
SG