It’s hitting me hard… I’m leaving Minnesota tomorrow. Chicago is already alien to me, I might as well be leaving the U.S.

It’s hard to focus lately… hard to concentrate on driving, or doing regular tasks. Slight setbacks make me more upset than they normally would. Emotions are up, coping ability is down. I’m trying to re-direct all my freaking-out energy into being excited about where I am going and what is awaiting me on the other side of the world.

My bags are all packed, but I’m missing things. I’ll tear them open and repack before I leave tomorrow. I’m trying to make it with only one checked back, one carry-on, my laptop-backpack and a big purse, but unfortunately… my checked bag is not that big… and so I might have to take a second bag. (Boo, frustrating).

Lots of people have been helping me out, especially with keeping me sane… I know I’d be nuts right now without my family and my friends, and of course the endless Q&A sessions with my predecessor. Today, my last full day at home, I worked, packed, made chocolate mousse, went on a long walk, picked lots of berries, cooked dinner, napped, and played with kittens. Later I’ll watch a movie with family and a few friends. That’s a good way to end things.

I’m off, I think. Off and running with old shoes on my feet and a positive outlook.