A New Year in Australia

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As of the 8th, I've been in Australia for a year!

It feels so amazing to say this, and I can't believe I've come this far.
2020 was obviously a dumpster fire of a year for the world, but for me personally it's been incredible.
The most exciting, terrifying year of my life.

I've done so much and I've come so far, and yet some part of me still can't believe I've been here for a whole year.
I get homesick when I think about the fact I haven't seen my family or hugged my parents in a year, and I'm looking forward to seeing them again.

But for now the challenge isn't over! I've still got so much I want to do and see in Australia.

Whenever I move on to the next thing or the next place when travelling, there's a period of integration.
For the first few days or even weeks I feel misplaced and at times a bit sad. It's always strange when I move onto the next part of my adventure, as it feels like I'm at a cross roads and I question all my movements.

It's exhausting and scary to keep moving on and starting again; it feels like re-starting my life over and over.
But it's so worth it as it means I get to do new things all the time, and live a million different lives in just one year.

And now I'm here in Byron, working in a pizza place and also as a cleaner at the YHA. I'm currently also living in the YHA but I'm looking to move back into the van at a campsite with my friends soon!
To be able to say I live here is a blessing and a privilege I never thought I'd be able to claim.
But it's also something I've worked hard for and I'm so proud to say I made it happen all by myself.

I've achieved a lot this year that I never thought I was able to do. Finishing farm work, buying my van, and living in Byron are some of the highlights of dreams I never thought I could accomplish.
It might not seem like a big deal to some people but I see these as some of the best things I've ever done.
It's scary always having to meet new people and being on your own for a bit when you arrive somewhere new, but how else would you make new friends in life!

Plus it now feels amazing to be settling in my favourite place in the world! I've been here a week now and things are starting to fall into place. Still a long way to go!

I'm looking forward to making many beautiful memories in Byron. Bring on 2021 in Australia!

Shepp x

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