I’ve been wanting to write this post for several months now. Wanting to, needing to, meaning to, but scared to.
I delayed writing this post because I kept expecting everyone to tell me I was being ridiculous. I’ve spent all year scrutinising reactions, waiting for someone to laugh, to scoff, to say that I should remain safe in my cozy cocoon.
That I shouldn’t be closing my eyes and flinging myself off a cliff with nothing but the hope of finding a current of swirling air to hold my weight and carry me to glittering shores.
That my savings should be used for a house deposit; that I shouldn’t be breaking up with lovely men on account of kisses feeling like promises I can’t keep.
But, you see, a funny thing happened. Every time I talked to people who love me and know me, all I heard was support and excitement. When I started making excuses and stepping backwards, I was gently (and sometimes sternly) pushed forward again.
E.Moonbeams pointed out that you can’t jump off a cliff while keeping one leg on the edge as a precaution. Doing so is physically and metaphorically impossible.
So I’m leaping.
Next week, I’ll be handing back the master keys at work, shutting down my office computer for the last time, and trying not to think about the lack of future payslips.
The week after that, I’ll begin clearing out of my place, taking only my most cherished possessions back to my parents’ house for safekeeping.
And then, on the evening of August 2nd, I’ll be stepping off a plane in New York, feeling the dizzying, giddy, breathlesschoking, overwhelming, exhilarating, terrifying joy that comes with having cut off ties to day-to-day routines back home, and having only wildjazzydancing adventures before me.
I don’t know yet exactly where I’ll go or how long I’ll spend in the United States. I don’t know whether or not Canada will grant me the working visa I’ve applied for. I don’t know whether health issues or an unforeseen event will change the trajectory of the dream I’m dreaming, right now, sitting here on my rose-covered bed, telling you.
But I do know this:
Here, today, tomorrow, these are my only. These are what I have, what I know, what I am. These are my pockets of time, mine, and I can’t breathe without knowing I’m doing all I can to live them utterly, utterly, mine, my only.
I also know this:
I’ll be at Amber and Matt’s wedding, and before then Amber and I will sit on her kitchen floor during the witching hours, laughing and whispering as we eat spoonfuls of dessert.
I’ll be in Utah, hiking and bantering with someone who came into my life through serendipity. Thank you, serendipity.
I’ll be seeing my Lisa, my darling, again in Toronto, and I might just stay. (The lure of a welcome dance dessert party is too much for me to resist.)
As for the rest? The other months, the next year? I don’t know. I don’t know where life will take me. But I’m not going to be afraid anymore. I’m not going to let anxiety over something going wrong prevent me from embracing what I’ve already put in place.
So here is my announcement, my dream, my happening (oh, please let it happen!):
Wayfaring Chocolate is getting back to wayfaring. And I can’t wait to take you with me.
P.S. If anyone knows of a couch in New York that would like to welcome me into its arms in early August, I’d be more than happy to acquiesce. (I’m very generous that way.) In fact, if there are any couches in any cities that would like me to visit, let me know! I could even bring Vegemite, if asked nicely.
Ooooh! Congratulations Hannah!! You should come to Madison, WI, it’s beautiful here.
We have lakes and 100 degree heat. 
I’m so happy that you’ll get to travel again, it sounds like it’s just what you need. No more 45 page work reports, hurrah! 
Thank you dear Jess! And no 50 page reports in 36 hours either
100 degree heat sounds blissful right now, particularly if it means I can stand in the shade under a tree with something sweet and cold, looking at the beauty of Madison. I shall have to pull up a map of the US first though…
I am excite! I knew you had some travels planned but I had no idea they would have indefinite conclusions. If you spend even an hour in Atlanta and do not tell me I will surely never speak to you again.
I hope hope hope this little jaunt of yours turns into everything you need it to be.
Thank you my wonderful friend. You are most certainly one of the faces I’ve had stashed away in the secret-travel-plans nook of my mind! You make me laugh, I’ve been to Savannah but not Atlanta, you have beer and Japanese food, ergo…
Congratulations! I hope this means we’ll get to meet and eat chocolate together sometime soon.
I think that’s most certainly what it means. Let me know where you’ll be in August, maybe September?
I’ll be around Boston and Providence. New York’s just a stone’s throw away
I foresee shenanigans in our future! Glorious shenanigans! Boston has a definite place in my heart; it is where I bought my favourite pair of heels, patted a poodle in a chocolate shop, and ate endless punnets of cheap raspberries while staying in a barren hostel/hotel room (with wifi, so all was well).
Shall I contact you closer to my leaving-date for planning?
Yes! Please do.
Wow congrats! So excited for you! I don’t know when you’ll be in Toronto but I’m moving there in September
I hope you get what you’re looking for and enjoy the excitement of the unknown!
Neither do I, except that you’ll be there before me. I shall entrust you with scoping out good raw vegan dessert options for me
Deal. I look forward to conducting this research
It’s a hard job, but someone’s gotta do it.
Um, add to your list GO TO DC TO GO TO BIAGIO AND VISIT ME
My dear, that isn’t even a question. I haven’t been to Biagio since December 2009.
Oh, wait, I meant of course I’m going to DC to see you.
what an awesome, wonderful LEAP!!
You will have an absolute blast – I just know it 
Hope you take us along for the ride!
Thank you Lisa! And oh, I will most certainly be taking you along with me. I started this blog while travelling last time; I’m duty-bound to keep it up this time
Duty-free! Harharhar guffaw travel humor.
The other reason I absolutely must travel now is that all of my perfumes are almost finished. To the duty-free with me!
SO excited for you!!!! You are going to have a blast. If you ever get to Atlanta – even if it’s just through the airport – you MUST let me know. You always have a place to crash here!
Thank you Laura! Fingers crossed for many moments of blast-having! This is two votes for Atlanta so far; I just may need to make it happen… and take you up on that offer
Already planning out the dessert spread and the sound track. Love you lady. xo
Thank you for helping me weave together the shining threads of my dream, dear heart. xo
woooooooo!
woooooooooot!
Wow. That’s fantastic. I’m so excited for you. That is so good.
Thank you Gary!
I knew it! I could smell the alluring whiffs of adventure and the unknown straight through my computer screen (did you know it smells of cloves, vanilla and lemon zest?) I am SO EXCITED (and yes, envious!) of your adventures…. who knows what will happen? I didn’t know when I bought a 1 way ticket to Melbourne 5 years ago, and now I have a Misty and am getting married (!)
Can’t wait to read of your travels xxx
I knew it was a delicious perfume, but I hadn’t quite nutted out the specific scents yet. Thank you for that, dear lady. I shall dab my clove essential oil from Mauritius on my wrists to celebrate.
I love that you picked up on whisperings and longing enough to guess. I can’t wait to write of my travels
xoxo
Yay for you! That is very exciting news and I wish you all the best for all the amazing adventures you are going to have.
Thank you for your kindness, Em!
Hannah, congratulations, this is brilliant, I couldn’t be happier for you. Houses can fall down, jobs can always be found again one way or another, and as for kisses being a promise you can’t keep, can you please go back in time and write that line into a pop ballad for Mandy Moore circa 2000?
Can’t wait to see where this journey takes you, and I have my fingers crossed that we might be able to cross paths in October in New York – if not, there’ll be other times, there will there will!
(but what will you do with the giraffe?)
From anyone else, I would think that Mandy Moore comment was meant as an insult, but from you, I can’t help thinking it’s nothing but affectionate. (tongue-in-cheek affectionate, mayhaps…)
Thank you my lovely friend! Oh how I would love to see a Broadway play with you in New York; would that not be the most perfect meeting ever? But, as you say, if not this time, the nextnextnext
xoxo
P.S. Giraffes are very bendy. I’m sure he’ll be able to squish into my carry-on.
This post makes me so, so, so, so happy.
I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU!!!
Thank you for everything, soulsister! Just think: less than two months. xoxoxo
EEEEEEEPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!! I cannot tell you how happy I am for you! Well done for taking the leap, you know you’ll not regret it. If things come up they come up and you’ll deal with them accordingly but you can’t stay home ‘just in case’. So jealous about the hiking in Utah, very much planning on getting there myself one day. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy
My friend, thank you. I knew, I just knew, that you’d cheer me on (and it was hard not to spill the beans over emails earlier!
). Your words about not staying home “just in case”. Thank you xo
It was definitely one of those times when I shouldn’t have been reading on the train, I just wanted to jump up and down and do a happy dance for you. Yes, nary a hint in all of those ‘slow down and look after yourself’ chats
As much as I’m a fan of the happy dance, I think it’s right the you resisted on the train. You don’t want to come across as one of those Tom Cruise types, particularly right now
Teehee, in my defense I was too scared to even admit the reality of my dreams to myself for a while! Have been very worried by a health thingamajiggy, but have decided to stop stressing and just face forward
Congratulations! have a ride of your life!
Thank you Marta
OMGGGGGG
I’m so so so happy for you!!!! Such exciting news and you’re gonna have so much fun!!!!!! Whatever you choose to do, I’m sure that you’ll be amazing at it 
GOOD LUCK GIRL! omgoshhhhh so excited!!! hehe
Teehee, thank you Vien! Seriously, your excitement is so generous and lovely; I’m smiling rather a lot right now!
WOOHOOOOO!! You must be one of the most courageous people in the world, doing what it takes to make yourself happy. I’m sure that you light up the lives of everyone you meet, and it’s only fair that Australia gets to share you with the rest of the world.
Wishing you all amounts of happiness
This comment has made me teary-eyed, Sophie! Thank you so much for your kindness. Oh gosh, I think I need to go hide my face for a minute! xo
I AM SO VERY EXCITED AND HAPPY FOR YOU
(When I read the title, I did a big intake of breath, and then started wondering – would it be travel? – or is she writing a book? – perhaps you can do both!)
More seriously, I belive and support wholeheartedly that many big things in life require a leap of faith – and as E.Moonbeams aptly noted, you can not leap with one foot still on the ground. After your horrendous month at work, it is even more exciting to think that you are so close to finishing up there. I am a little sad to think that the distance between Perth and Canberra is stretching to the distance between Perth and America (eek. eek.) but really so thrilled to hear this news
Thank you dear mindtwin! And oh, the book… I still struggle to believe I could come up with an idea that anyone would want to publish, but there is definitely a plan in my heart to spend this employment-free time focusing on my writing more, if only for myself, to practise.
Thank you for your support, not only now, but all year. Just a week more to go now! xoxo
P.S. You know, I can’t help thinking you’ll visit America before you’ll ever visit Canberra
Ahhhooooo I am thrilled for you!!! And you might come to Toronto, whatsay?? I will surely have a couch available come September.
Leaps of faith are scary but very necessary once in a while. I am sure this adventure will turn out smashingly for you!
Thank you Sarah!! And oooh, I may just have to take you up on that. I see shenanigans in our future
Woohoo and congrats! My heart leaps for joy just like you seem to do in every photo! Life is too short to let it pass on by. Think of all the peanut butter happiness that awaits!
Ah, that’s because it’s very hard to take a photo of myself when I’m being a camouflage beetle in the corner
In all seriousness, thank you beyond words for your support this year (and always), dear Helen. You’ve helped me find strength and, yes, imagine a world of peanut butter happiness. xo
“I never travel without my diary. One should always have something sensational to read in the train.” — Oscar Wilde.
Hannah, you are doing what’s right for you. And your diary (well, blog actually) will be “simply the best”.
Thank you Mike! It would be nice to hear from you every now and again on my travels
I actually meant to say something at gospel last week, but then it seemed rude to talk about just silly old me!
Thanks Hannah. I will also be interested to go along with you on your journey. And I promise I will keep you in touch with news about strange weather – and that’s the gospel truth.
Well played.
WhoooHooo!!! Good on you, you brave girl.
I’m happy as long as you take us with you.
Oh gosh, the thrill of arriving in New York. Sweet memories. It was 1:30am but I was more awake than ever.
Every time I’ve landed in New York, my entire heart/chest/throat is so full of wild exhilaration that I can’t breathe, and I end up making little giddy noises every few steps.
I will absolutely take you all with me! I just hope you all still want to read when I don’t have a kitchen to create desserts in
P.S. I think I arrive around 6pm. Just enough time to eat a few delicious things before crashing after 30 hours of travel.
Absolutely, Margaret … We will be watching out for her posts with much impatience … What’s she doing will be uppermost in my mind!
You do care! You really do!
No, just joking! (LOL)
*sticks out tongue*
how exciting! Sounds like a wise decision – and best to do it while you can because you never know what lies ahead. It seems just right for you – as your passion for travel comes through loud and clear – have you asked the UN if they need a chocolate ambassador because I am sure you would be perfect? Good luck with preparations and I will look forward to some wayfaring blog posts
Thank you Johanna; that’s been my exact rational: I may never have this opportunity in quite this way again, to throw all caution to the wind and simple gallivant, so I’m crossing my fingers and doing it.
I’ve never had the courage to write to the UN, but surely a chocolate ambassador would bring some light to this muddled world of ours!
Holy Moly! Amazing stuff, Hannah-Bee. I hope one day to be as brave as you! x
Oh golly, I’ve never ever thought of myself as brave! Thank you, Lexi-love. If I choose to settle somewhere, you’ll always be welcome to visit. I’ll even make sure I have wine in the fridge. xo
Wow, good luck! I hope you have some wonderful adventures!
Thank you Catherine! I hope I do too
OMG. Sugar Twin, I am so proud of you. This will be an amazing journey for you. I can’t wait to hear of your many adventures to come. Best decision ever.
Aw, squish!! Thank you Adrian! I can’t wait to eat many delicious American desserts in honour of my Sugar Twin xo
Amazing! Travel safe. Very jealous x
Thank you Sarah!
Congrats my friend, can’t wait to hear about your experiences to come
You deserve this and to leap all you want!
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I shall leap all over the place, and be that crazy Australian tourist that New Yorkers look down their noses at
Thank you!
I’m so excited for you! Change is hard for most people to accept, but it is the best thing that can happen to us. If you happen to decide to come through Ohio, let me know!
Thank you Debi! You’re right, change is terrifying. And yet, as you say, it is only through change that life has a chance to become truly spectacular. I will most certainly put a gold star on Ohio, to remember you as my plans take shape!
Fair winds and soft landings! There’s a couch in Seattle with your name on it.
Phil, you magical man! What an utter, utter delight to see you pop up here
And thank you for your kind offer; we’ll have to check our calendars to look for Seattle’s next stunning fireworks display 
HANNAH!! So very excited for you lovely. I wish you all the very best on your new adventure.
:):)
Can’t wait for you to take us along
Xo
Thank you Leah!! I’m so overwhelmed by everyone’s excitement and enthusiasm; I’m so glad you want me to keep blogging throughout. Thank you xp
Darling Hannah
My eyes filled up with tears as I read your news – if it wasn’t 7am and Sapph was awake I’d do the classic stand up fist pump stance and bellow out a ‘Whoo Hoo!’ I know we haven’t met in person but I feel as though we actually have. You’re an incredibly intelligent and warm soul and if the US and Canada is calling you, then don’t leave them waiting.
GO FOR IT, girl. I remember chucking in my first job two years after uni and heading over to the UK on a two year working visa – the best (and probably bravest) thing I ever did. I still bore my husband and daughter about my friendships, adventures and experiences over there and will be taking Sapph back to London a week before the Olympics on a small ‘girlie’ trip that we’re both looking forward to.
I’ll be here, waiting for all the news of your adventure. And if you ever find yourself in Geneva, there’s a spare room, friendly dog, great coffee and a family who’d love to see you!
Kath xo xo xo
Dearest Kath, I had to stop and take a few deep breaths before responding to you, because my heart is so full that I don’t know how to convey through typing how incrediblyoverwhelminglytruly much your words mean.
Thank you, beyond, beyond. I’m so overwhelmed and grateful for your happiness and support, and for letting me know that you once made the same leap (it thrills my soul how our lifepaths align here!). You’ve helped make me feel more certain, more “right”, about this decision.
If I decide to take a jaunt over to Geneva, rest assured I’ll be arriving with a greatbigsqueezyhug and my suitcase. xoxo
P.S. I, too, feel like we’ve met/known each other for longlongtimes.
SQUEE!!! (I’m so proud that I learnt that from you!!) I am INCREDIBLY happy for you that I am grinning to myself like an idiot and have to stop myself from doing a happy dance in front of my laptop.
This. Wow.
THIS is you. What you need to do – what you have been waiting for.
The world is your chocolate (more tasty than an oyster) and I am looking forward to hearing your adventures from the other side of the world.
Go, with a hundred kisses and hugs gently pushing you along, go – GO live your dream
Oh, Sig! Your comment! You have no idea how much your happiness makes my entire mindbodysoul feel suffused with joy; thank you for your ongoing support, your friendship, your everconstant “knowing” that dreams are what make reality worthwhile.
SQUEEE!!!
You may not know it, but you’ve been a gentle “push” even when you haven’t known it exactly. xo
Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!! So excited for you!!! xxoo
Thank you!! I’m so touched by your excitement
Wow! That’s so exciting. It sounded like you were hating your job so great that you are moving on. Are your parents thrilled about getting all your stuff to mind? They’ll miss you terribly. It sounds like the opportunity of a lifetime and you’ll be arriving in NY at a great time of year (might be a tad warmer than Canberra!) I’m looking forward to sharing your journey through your blogging xx
Thank you my friend! I hope my parents will miss me; I honestly can’t even think about not seeing them every week without getting ridiculously upset. At least they’ll have my things to cuddle if they do get lonely
Canberra was -5 at 8:30 this morning. I’m therefore focusing on the fact that New York in September will be certainly warmer, and not that Canadian winters are far colder.
Hooray for you!!! I’m so excited that you’re living your dream, and if you happen to find the time to swing by Paris, my couch is open. (won’t be there most of August, though, so let’s try to plan around that, eh?)
Thank you Camille! So truly, truly
(And I’m glad to hear that you’re having a holiday (?) in August yourself!)
If the Canadian winter is too much for my cold-fearing soul, I may just have to factor in a Paris jaunt
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is so, so amazing, Hannah! Good on you for taking that step! And yeah, screw what other people will say or think, or have already said or think, you need to do what’s right for YOU, even if it means going against what they think is ‘right’
xx
PS. While we’re on the subject of USA, I’m planning to do an exchange semester in NJ in Fall 2013 (see, already speaking like an American haha) so it would be sweet if we finally met – in America, out of ALL places!
Oh Libby!! You have filled me with wonderment with your comment; thank you! xoxo I’m so overwhelmed by your (and everyone’s!) excitement.
P.S. I think this American meet-up will have to happen, fo’shiz. And congratulations!! I loved my time at UVA on exchange
Serendipity is AMAZING! You’re doing the right thing. <3
You make my heart soar. I can’t wait.
Well this is RATHER AMAZING.
It sounds like one of those decisions that you’ll look back on and deem one of the best decisions you ever made, haha! I’m so absolutely thrilled and excited for you, Hannah. Getting ready to live vicariously through you from August onwards…
BTW did you get my email? I remembered after I sent it that your previous email had been about how you thought your Gmail account might be eating up emails and making them disappear. Anyway, I guess this post pretty much fills me in on what your reply would have been anyway.
How ridiculously exciting! You better keep us all updated about basically everything you do and every awesome amazing thing you eat, lady.
Oh Jess, I hope so, I really, really hope so! Though E.Moonbeams also helped “push” me forward by saying that the worst that could happen is I come home earlier than planned and have a funny story for the future: “Hey, remember when I tried to move to Canada? Bahahaha! etc. etc.”
Darling yes, I did get your email! Thank you! I’ve been in a not-able-to-email place on account of things like working 119 hours in one fortnight, and working 17 days in a row, and all of those fun things that would have made my email an exhausted heap of typos
I will reply though! Teehee, oh I am so thrilled that there is interest in my continuing to blog as I gallivant. And eat. Oh how I’ll eat.
But, your parents need to approve any couches you land on, missy! We might be letting you go (ha, as if we could stop you) but that doesn’t mean we’ll stop caring.
Well, I must say that you do have a pretty fantastic track record of arranging couches for me to sleep on (Hi Phil!) during my gallivants
And hey, it was just the once that I emailed you to say I was going to stay in a hotel room with a strange man…
Please don’t stop caring! xoxoxo
Woman, you are my heroine and an inspiration! This is the sort of thing I think about but don’t act upon because of my silly attachment to future payslips. Please share your courageous secrets with me. So happy for you, you’ll have tons of fun!
Oh my golly, I am absolutely overwhelmed by your comment; thank you so utterly, so much xoxo If you were here, I would hug you bigtime right now. I’ve never felt courageous! But shhhhh, don’t remind me about the nonexistant future payslips!! Que sera, sera…
That’s so great!!! I’m so excited for you! I know a couch in Princeton that would almost certainly be happy to have you stay…it’s only an hour from NY. I can’t wait to read about all your adventures!!
Rachel, thank you so much!! Support like yours makes me feel so much more excited about this crazy adventure
And oooh, Princeton! I’ve toured Harvard but not the other Ivy Leagues… Do you really think the couch would have me? xo
I’m sure the couch would be delighted to have you! I’m even catching up with the owner of the couch tonight, so will check! I also know a lovely family living a couple of hours north of Toronto (in a log house, next to a lake!) who would be very happy for you to stay. You will have the most amazing time!!
You are beyond wonderful, Rachel! Thank you so much even for thinking that I might be welcomed by people in your life. A log house by a lake! That sounds just perfect for my Anne of Green Gables dreams.
You are welcome to stay at the couch in Princeton. I’ll e-mail you the details
Squeee! Now, to find me a map!
OH my Angle Babe! What huge news!! Sorry I’ve been MIA for such a long time!! I love it! Well done and yayy to living on your dreams
I wish I could do the same too!!!!
Thank you my Rake Sway Dancing Unicorn Party TAKO MIND POWER Colours of the Wind darling!! You’ve had every reason to be MIA, because you have a different sort of magical dream ahead of you: wedding shenanigans!!! Squeeeee! If I settle somewhere, you must visit xoxo
Hooray! It will be ace.
Fingers crossed for that visa. Do you need all of us to contact Canada and let them know how amazing you are? x
You darling creature! I’m sure that wouldn’t hurt, but we’d have to know exactly which border official to write to as they only decide whether to give you the visa when you actually enter the country, the wily folk!
xo
Why would anyone scoff at you? Never. Nevernevernever. You are too swirling whirling lovely:)
Oh hey, and since no one apparently wants to hire me here, just know that I am available for hire as a Travel Squire and Chocolate Co-Taste-Tester. For pay I would accept seeing you do one of those heel clicks thingys and dissolving into laughter.
You know I would hire you in a heartbeat, even if your pay demands went beyond heelclicks and giggles to an equal share in all chocolate and raw vegan coconut ice cream!
If you give me a couch and a kitchen to play in, I will heelclick for you. xo
I’m here, getting giddy about the day we’ll get to meet. xoxo:)
This is so exciting to read, Hannah – I wish you all the best and hope you will keep blogging!! Good luck
xx
Thank you Fiona! I will most certainly keep blogging; wild horses couldn’t keep me away.
How exciting! I wish you have all the best!
Thank you Silvia!
That’s so exciting! Congrats, girl!
Thank you Rach!
Wow! This is awesomeness and amazingness (and a little bit of sadness as the America and Canada lands are a lot further away for visiting). Very brave and wonderful of you. Life is most definitely for living. Thank goodness I finally got online to have a look at your blog in time to see this announcement. I have been so out of the loop of stuff in the last little while. I miss reading your magical writings.
I have also recently quit my job and am, as people at work joked, now “retired” (possibly could be rephrased as “really tired”). Not planning on returning to normal work any time soon. Much to much amazing stuff to do first I hope. I will update my blog soon (soon may mean days…weeks…or months…hopefully more like a couple of weeks).
Thank you much-missed lady! I’ve been thinking of you too lately; I came across my tasting notes for the raw chocolate you sent me and realised I hadn’t posted about it! I, too, will flag that as happening soon, meaning weeks or months…
Congratulations for us and our work-less shenanigans! I hope that this decision brings you back to utter jazziness, and that the tiredness dissipates as soon as possible. Lovely to hear from you!
How wonderful! You are absolutely right, the moment is now, and when you are young is the very best time to do it (leap). It gets harder as you get older, though it’s still possible.
Oh Christina, thank you! It really helps to hear this. And to know that it’s always possible to take a leap in life, even if doing so means pushing a little harder to shift the barriers.
Yes, but I think the harder it gets, the more the rewards!
Absolutely. It takes being challenged to breathe most deeply and laugh most brilliantly. x
Hannah, such fantastic news! Huge congrats to you for following your heart and taking the leap. We never regret the chances we take–only the ones we don’t. This will be an incredible and amazing adventure for you, and I’m so happy for you! I wish you all that you dream of. And guess what? We may actually meet in NYC–I am planning another getaway as we speak (well, type, or whatever–you know what I mean).
And will keep my fingers crossed for you that you get that visa. How awesome would that be??? 
xoxo
Thank you Ricki! I’ve had to resist spilling the beans to you before things were crystallised, I must admit
You are utterly right; every big regret in my life has been due to not having the courage to take an opportunity and risk the hurt/bump. Darling, absolutely keep me updated on your NYC plans! I’ll need to figure things out myself very soon, mostly about how long I’ll be there, otherwise I’ll end up with no affordable options for sleepytime!
So very awesome. Unfortunately you only find out for sure at the border. Ah well!
Oh wow Hannah this is amazing.
so glad you are doing this, please stay safe and I know you will have a blast 
Thank you Julie! Oh, I so hope it’s what I dream and hope. And I will definitely stay safe; I’m a bit ridiculous when it comes to safety when travelling alone!
Oh my god! So glad you commented tonight! I clicked over to find this message.
My dear, I am so glad you’ll be here! And excited.
I’m in NYC for about one night on August 2, then about 2 weeks after the 12th. I’d love to see you there. Then I’m traveling a bit myself, then back to DC by Sept. 1st. From then onward, you have a sofa at Hobbit House if you want to visit the Nation’s Capitol. I’m in class and studying almost all the time, but can always take breaks for dessert and talk
Oh you darling, wonderful lady! I’m doing a little happydance in my heart right now. This all sounds utterly, utterly perfect; I would adore being your excuse to duck out of the studyhaze in DC. I’m also particularly touched by your mention of dessert; you know me well.
I think this proves the perfect reason for me to finally, finally email you back! xo
Fantastic news Hannah! Very pleased for you, although slightly envious. Looking forward to seeing where you end up! Bon voyage!
Thank you Leigh! I’m looking forward to seeing where I end up too
Ohhhhh Hannah… Can I just say how much I admire your courage right now. Honestly, only someone who loves life as much as you would be able to make such a major decision like this!! It may be daunting, but I have full faith that you will touch ppl with your personality everywhere you go and you will find your way. Blown away by this. Take good care okay, Hannah!!!!!!! Big big hugs =)
Oh gosh golly Winston! Thank you! I’ve never thought of this as being about courage; you’re truly spectacularly wonderful to me! Thank you for your excitement and support
Congratulations Hannah! I can’t be more excited for you! I know taking that leap of faith is never an easy decision as it definitely wasn’t when I quit my job…but the moment I closed the computer and handed back the key, ready to waltz out of that front door, the feeling was so exhilarating I thought I was going to choke and die on the spot. It felt like I was being reborn. Cherish every moment you have overseas and make the most of it.
Hope you can keep blogging about your new experiences and new friends because it just seems so exciting!! Can’t wait to see what you get up to and the wonderful food you’ll eat.
Jenny, thank you so much for sharing your story of taking a similar leap into the unknown, and for telling me that it worked out brilliantly, spectacularly, breathlessly. That feeling of almost choking with freedom and happiness? That’s exactly what I feel like when I step off the plane in New York. I can’t wait. I promise you I will not only cherish the adventures, but cherish blogging them for you
If I could shriek like a little girl, I totally would right now.
No wayyy though, I’m so excited for you, and for me! We really can meetup now! I’m just a hop, skip, and jump away from NYC, so name a date and I’ll be there. <3
That’s two Hannah-hearts shrieking silently with utter joy then. HUGS.
We really, really can and will, my darling! Shall I email you to plan? xo
ANTWERP!!! WE ALREADY HAVE VEGEMITE!!!
Darling!!! Europe isn’t quite in the agenda at present, but who knows?? We’ll figure something out xoxo
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG Hannah
I can’t say OMG enough 
I am SUPER DUPER HAPPY FOR YOU!!!! I’m also really proud of you for making this decision! I want to do the exact same thing that you are doing right now!
I only just started work…so don’t have enough money…so I can’t do that yet, but I’m going to work hard save some money and like you YET OFF
I am so happy for you right now! Wish we could do a happy dance together! You’ve made a great choice too NYC is one of the best cities to go to!
Oh you fabulous creature! I’m so blown away by your enthusiasm and excitement for me. Thank you! I have no doubt you’ll have your own adventure soon too. I’ll look forward to hearing about it
Dear Hannah,
Congratulations and it would certainly be an exciting time for you, discovering and unearthing new dimensions in your life. Here’s to conquering the Big Apple and more chocolates and goodies coming your way.
Thank you! Oh, I do so hope those new dimensions unveil themselves to me
While I can’t offer you a couch in NYC, I am from NYC and just want to welcome you here!
Thank you Kim! I can’t wait
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How exciting! Just caught up with your block. Madison, two 1/2 hours away from chicago. There is a nice bed waiting for you! At the moment we are in Germany, but we’ll be back in the middle of August. My Aussie husband will be overseas in Munich for 5 month. Thus me and my two kids are lonely and need some company. We have nice chocolate makers here. It seems that Madison people really love good local made chocolate. A friend of mine is just now in Equador, and learns more about chocolate beans…..and she does really good chocolate treats.
You are always welcome. Oh, and I’m so excited to read about your adventures.
Oh Elisabeth, I will absolutely keep Madison (and you!) in mind! In fact, you’re the second person to mention Madison, and I haven’t yet been to that area (though have been to Chicago). Your support in recent months is alone enough to make me want to come and give you a big hug; the chocolate would just be a bonus. I have no idea yet where my travels will take me, but rest assured I’ll be blogging, and we can always get in touch via email too
P.S. Five months, oh golly! Thank heavens for email and skype; I know they make all the difference for helping me feel less lonely away from my family. xo
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Hannah this is amazing! Good for you, you’re so brave (and I mean that in a good way, not like when someone looks at someone’s new haircut and says, “ooh that’s so… brave”!) and the bit about the pockets of time being yours and yours only is 100% true.
Live it, love it and just – have the best time ever, I’m sure you will! Xx
Thank you Eleanor. Your comment has helped bolster my spirits, right at a time when plans feel a little wobbly. I’m going to take strength from your support and excitement, and keep my fingers crossed that I do get the chance to be brave. In all the ways (I will need a haircut soon…
). x
Wow! How exciting!!!
I can only think of all the adventures you’ll have and exciting new chocolates you will share! I can imagine how scary it will be to back away from routine…but so exciting at the same time!!
Thank you Ashley! Whether it’s a trip of two months or two years, I’m going to to my best to chase all the adventures I can
Never commented before – congrats, i hope it is everything you want it to be. Just wanted to say there’s a website ‘couchsurfing’ you should check out x
Thank you for taking the time to comment, Charlotte! I’m so happy that you did, and not just because I now have a website to check out
Wow Hannah! I am just catching up after running away to France for work/holiday. What a fabulous piece of news and I feel very bubbly for you. I LOVE New York and started kindergarten in Toronto many – erm – moons ago. You will love it!
If you feel like crossing the Atlantic at any point in the year there will always be a bed for you around the corner from Vicenza xxcat
Thank you Catherine, truly truly. I’m currently dealing with some things that are making me very fearful of the trip not being able to be quite what I’ve hoped and planned for, but you know what? Even if it’s a far shorter trip than I’d want, ideally, I’ll simply have to try and squeeze in all the wonderment in a shorter space of time
P.S. What’s the weather/temperature like in your corner in winter…?
Here I’m sure it’s milder than Canada but very damp and foggy near Venice, so it gets into your bones – that’s why I ski! We don’t always have snow either, which is disappointing, but it mostly hovers around zero for a good two months, then goes over or way under for another three. Perhaps it was all those years in Africa, but I love the cold and can give you some great wardrobe tips! Two pairs of socks, double leather soles, double tights and a groovy hat. I find gloves are a nuisance. Xxcat
I would love your wardrobe tips for each and every day of the year, you stylish lady! Double leather soles isn’t something I’d previously heard of, but I’m going to make note. The cold isn’t simply something I don’t like, my body can’t cope very well. Stupid blue toes!
What wonderful and exciting news. Serious congratulations Hannah. I firmly believe you are the sort of very clever and accomplished person who will always fall on their feet, not only with having amazing adventures but with pursuing your career again in the future. I think your adventures will only add to what seems to already be an amazing package (you). May the only 20 hour days or seven day weeks for the immediate future be of travelling, adventure and fun. The best bit is, we will get to follow your adventures and for those of us not in a position to travel, maybe get to experience some of the joy and freedom. Congratulations on your massive decision.
I am so touched by your kind, kind, and supportive comment. Thank you. I’m honestly a little lost for words right now (and that’s not simply due to the combination of antibiotics and Rutherglen sparkling wine currently swirling around inside me). So many hugs being sent your way for helping me feel confident that this decision will help create joy and strength into the future. And thank you for being interested in following along. xo
OK holy crap, how did I miss this announcement? Where was I? Was I out doing spay lady poses? My god girl, good for you!!! You will be gloriously brilliant there
I expect to see your name in lights 
Aw, so lovely to hear from you! My hope is that you will have another trip to Canada while I’m over there
And thank you! I need to try and find the courage to ask around to see if anyone would like me to write for them. But I’m so scared of even asking! xo
P.S. I’m so sorry I won’t see you tomorrow! Have something delicious for me
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i know im late, but this is so exciting!!!!!!!!!
Thank you Elise! And you’re not really late; there’s still three weeks before I go
Oh wow, this is such big news. Travel like this is really only possible while young and untethered (or out the other end of the workforce I guess). I went to Canada when I was 20, was planning on 6 months, stayed for 2 and 1/2 years. BTW never underestimate how cold a Canadian winter is. I know you’ve been in the US a bit, but we Aussies just don’t get it. I naively thought that below zero was just below zero. -40 is as different from 0 as 40 is. I used to go out of the house when it got UP to -20, otherwise you go crazy. It can seem a difficult thing to step out into the void, but it’s where the amazing adventures happen. Good luck with it all , you’ll have all of us here cheering you on, wishing we could experience it too, and living vicariously through your gallivantings. Such exciting times ahead for you, young lady. Enjoy.
Thank you Louise! Thank you! Hearing the experiences – and successful adventure-happy-times – of others who have taken this same leap gives me courage and confidence that it is the right thing to do, and that I shouldn’t simply stay and live in Canberra for the rest of my life
And oh, how I fear the winter. I truly do. In truth, I may have to be realistic about it and run away during the worst of winter. Otherwise I may come back with no feet. However, I’ve had so many people tell me that they find the cold more unbearable in Canberra, because none of our infrastructure is built for it. Fingers crossed?!
Thank you again for your support and enthusiasm!
Oh wow, what an awesome and exciting plan! I totally admire you – myself I could never do that because I need some more stability in my life and a secure home, but two of my best friends are nomads (they say of me that I’m a mental nomad, haha), and I know you have to go if your are a nomad as well. Nomads can’t become happy when they’re stuck at one place forever. I’m so happy and excited for you that you dared to make this step! If you’re feeling more alive now already, it was the best decision you could make.
Thank you Kath! The funny thing is, that I’m such a creature of stability and routine when I’m at home – I plan everything in my day. I think that’s why I love travel so much; it helps me be a more spontaneous, free, jazzy version of myself. I can’t wait
(Though I always long for my own showed when I’m travelling, the shower I can control easily… 
)
Soooo happy for you!! You only live once, so go enjoy it! We’re on the west coast, not sure if you’ll be making it out west?
I will at some point, for sure! We have family friends in the Orange County, and I need to re-explore San Fransisco, and I loved Seattle, and… but it may not be this year for the West Coast. However, the good thing about Canada is that it’s far closer to the US than Australia
Thank you!!
ahhhh congratulations hannah! so excited for your big move!!!! what kind of job are you looking for?
Thank you Junia! Who knows? Whatever job the job-wind takes me too, if I decide to follow it. Ideally, I’d love to try out something in the publishing/editing/writing field. Do you know anything?
hmm my friend works for a children’s book publishing company in central NJ, but that’s all the connections i have for that field. how long are you going to be traveling in the US for?
Oh you’re lovely!! That actually sounds almost perfect, but unfortunately the work visa is for Canada. The US doesn’t offer flexible working visas; I’d have to be sponsored and it’s all really complicated
ahhh okay. glad you got the work visa for canada though!
Oh wow!!! I’m so excited for you and the adventures!! What a big leap of faith and brave thing to do, I’m sure this next part will be one of the best times of your life. Can’t wait to hear all about it.
Thank you April! And thank you for being interested in hearing about it
This is a little late. Congrats!! I love your spontaneity. This sounds like so much fun!!!
I think you will like this article:
http://convergemagazine.com/featured/travel-young/
Thank you for that article, Jasmine. It’s wonderful. And for your support!
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I’m super late to this news but that is amazingly exciting! I think you have absolutely made the right decision, it is going to be the most amazing time and well worth the cliff leaping, heart stopping moment. I’m so excited for you.
Thank you Lisa! Eight days to go, eep!
so very belated but I’m so very excited for you I had to comment
hope it’s going well, lovely. ahhhh so exciting!! very proud, well done! Living life, right here.
Heidi xo
Darling, thank you! And thank you for your support during the early days of imagining this could be real
xoxox
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