Countdown

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Officially 4 sleeps left before my departure for Tokyo. I have been dreading this week (and its closing) ever since I found out that I would be leaving. I am wrapping up one of the most definitive of my 23 years and I have questioned whether this is really what I want to do, having made such a wonderful life for myself here in Calgary.

And yet the goodbyes haven't been as bad as I had anticipated. I feel like I grew up and into myself this year; like I learned how to give of myself fully. I also felt what it's like to belong to a tight-knit community (several, actually). So I feel sad because I know that this year was so great because I was lucky in circumstance and if I ever did come back to Calgary I may never experience this kind of synergy again. But I'm also ready to test my developed self amidst a new culture, language and climate where everything is steeped in tradition and history.

I hope you'll leave me lots of messages and send pictures because despite all the excitement I sure am going to miss you guys!

Jaa mata ne!

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Photos

Fun Time in Hawaii
Me and my sista Sasa

Fun Time in Montreal
Me and my sista Caitie

Mountain Me
I sure will miss the wicked hiking out here!

Some of the Gang
And I will miss the wicked friends I've made!!!

Comments

[Dana]

Em, you will do great and you will have a great time! 4 sleeps.....it does sound scary but exciting at the same time! :-)

[Dave MacKillop]

attagirl
Emilie: most exciting times for you. I am looking forward to following your adventure from quiet sedate Calgary. All the best.

[Daddy!]

Looking ahead
I am sure you will be fine. Put it this way, it is another step towards your personal fulfilment.

[John]

Thank You
Emilie: Sorry that I did not get a chance to see you before your last day at CTI. Thank you for the great work, your dedication, your professsionalism and your team work are all greatly appreciated. Continue to push the envelope as that appears to be where you are most comfortable. Enjoy the new frontiers and once again thank you for the year you gave to CTI.

[Aunt Kate]

What an adventure
Dear Em: We were so glad to see you this summer; look forward to reading about this new adventure and who knows maybe a visit to Japan. LOLxoxo PS look for Matt in the video on the plane!

[Vero]

For the 14 or so years that I've known you, you've always been taking on some kind of challenge, and you've always made the best of each one. This is another one of these challenges and I know you'll face it with the same dynamism that is so characteristic of you. I wish you nothing but the best, as always. Post lots of pictures!