Cloudy with a chance of expectations

I can recall distinctly saying ~11 years ago (and repeatedly in my 20s) that I was saving my travels to Europe for a time when I was "old and have money". Afterall, it's an expensive place to go and while I am still spry, I should travel to the places that demand my physical ability to adapt. Makes sense, right?

A bit of background beforehand, after I had finished my BSc, I had run off to live and work in Japan for a year. There, I'd meet really important people that are still important to me today but one of them, Anna, she's like a soul sister. Anna and I have started an annual tradition where we meet each other somewhere in the world... We've had quite the adventures and in the course of the last >7 years, we've stood by and watched evolution of each other through travels, careers, joyful moments, heartbreak and break throughs.

Initially, Anna was supposed to make her way to Canada after long last. So, this trip to Europe was a little unprecedented and frankly, it wasn't something I was keen on at first. But she put together an itinerary that I couldn't say no to.

And when it was sent, there it was... Paris. I had also said, I couldn't dream of going there by myself. Way too romantic a city. I said I would go with a great love.

Upon deeper inspection, wouldn't you know it?? Ringing in my champagne birthday abroad at 31 years in a time of maturity and financial security AND I will be in Paris with a great love!!

I couldn't love Anna more and the friendship we share, is nothing short of great love.

What you ask for?? Well... It does come true.

Dream on my fellow fellows! :)