Goodbye, Seattle. Hello, Toronto International Airport, my new home (for now).

This morning, I said goodbye to lovely Seattle, and my trip to Chile officially began. The emotions I experienced were completely unexpected. Even glancing out the car window on the way to the airport and seeing Boeing Field brought me to tears. I'll spare you all from the details of the other situations I've found myself sobbing in since. :)

Now, for some blatant mushiness: Seattle, I love you. In June 2006 when I drove on I-5 into your roaring belly for the first time, I was struck by the sight of wild vines growing and overflowing over highway overpasses littered with downtown exits. For some reason, it made you feel like home in a way that I had never experienced before. I was so excited to start a life within you and I learned more in such a short time than I thought imaginable. Thank you for taking me in. Some day, I'll be back.

Well, now I'm in a state of limbo and have made a temporary home of a seemingly forgotten hallway in the Toronto Airport while I wait out an 8 hour lay over. I wish that I hadn't checked my camera because it is seriously hilarious how I've managed to spread myself and the contents of my backpack over this whole area. I wish I could share the image. Home sweet home... Anyway, I have a 12 hour flight ahead of me tonight and when I arrive, who knows what will happen. I'm taking Spanish immersion classes and staying in a home stay in Vina del Mar for two weeks. This week I have three TEFL job interviews and an appointment to check out a room for rent. It feels like its all come together so easily through the wonders of the internet, but I've never been to this place, I know no one there, and my Spanish sucks. What will happen next? I guess you'll just have to read this blog to find out! (Hint: it should be funny)

Lastly, thank you to everyone that made Seattle such a wonderful place to live. Posted below are a few pictures from my fabulous goodbye party where there was copious amounts of champagne, tamales, door prizes, and undying love.

Love to you all,
Allie