At the moment I still don't know when I'll be leaving, all I do know is that there is no turning back now. Not that turning back is ever an option; in so far as I am concerned. It is the finality of it all that once it's realized can leave a feeling of hopelessness. Though I definitively choose this path, once chosen I'm helpless to change my course of actions. It's interesting, how our choices can still lead to paths that leave us unable to have control over the outcomes of our choices.

Please be aware, that this is not me having second thoughts. On the contrary I am extremely excited about this experience, almost a little too much - I suppose. I should feel more lost leaving my friends, family and culture behind. However I have a wander lust inside of me, which has been starved to the point of near death. This opportunity has fed it, awakened it and it is slowly gaining strength as a result. I should be more apprehensive, however the only thing I'm worried about is: having my own classroom, and living with someone again.

I suppose that I should explain my plans for those who may have stumbled across this record by mistake, or happenstance. My name is Katie-Lynn Gushue and I am a 24 year old Canadian woman. In the next few weeks I will be packing my life into two suitcases that can weight no more than 50lbs and am moving to the United Arab Emirates. The purpose of this adventure is employment, as I have just signed a two year contract with a school in Abu Dhabi to teach grades 1 and 2 Visual Arts. As I have stated above, I am extremely excited about this opportunity.

The purpose of this entry is to introduce my initial feelings about this adventure. Before I arrive in Abu Dhabi, I will try and write small entries on the history and my preconceived notions of the UAE/Abu Dhabi. Once I arrive I will write more about my actual adventures, and the people/places I see in relation to my trip.

For those who will take the time to read this, I thank-you. I hope this goes well for me, and that maybe I am able to help give insight to those traveling to this location.