The Countdown is on

Since I last wrote we've had a whirlwind period where we have been conditionally offered the role in Palau, had a personal trip to Melbourne then two weeks later had another separate trip there for 3 days training (Amanda stayed in between to visit her sister). Apart from that things have been mental in trying to prepare. We are slightly over 10 weeks from when we leave, which seems like a lot until you take into account everything that you need to complete by then. We are also both going for out PADI Open Water Scuba diving certification in two weeks time and have been busy completing the online theory component. Better get back to it...

Writing lists and looking forward to simpler days

I like to think I’m a fairly organised person and typically don't miss much when organising something. The possibility/probability of leaving the country for a while has had me considering things I’ve never had to before. While we aren’t likely to get full confirmation for maybe another 4-5 weeks yet, we’ve had a lot to consider and research already. Things like home loans, tax, insurance, cancelling bills, the apartment, furniture, cars, plants etc etc etc. It's been quite mentally draining at times to contemplate everything we need to sort out and when the trigger does get pulled there will be heaps for us to do in a short period. And yes numerous lists have been written.

Despite the stress of sorting everything out it’s actually been quite a refreshing experience to be somewhat forced to sell/give away a whole pile of stuff I’ve been hoarding for years. Any new purchases have also gone under much scrutiny as well, if it cannot be taken or it won’t be needed it in Palau then it’s a no. I think at times we all get caught up in 1st world society and you end up with all sorts of stuff you think you think you have to have when you don't at all. I am looking forward to simpler times in Palau. It sort of feels like it's going to be one of those typical beach holidays from when I was a kid.