2011, the Year I Give Life the Middle Finger

Well, here’s the post. The wrap-up/looking-ahead dealio.

I can’t say 2010 worked out the way I wanted it to. If you haven’t heard, I lost my job. I’ve been rejected from a dozen others. But it’s a funny thing, because as I reflect on the past 12 months, all I can think about is how this year was bloody fantastic.

Bye bye, 2010!

Bye bye, 2010!

Two days after I was laid off, I turned 24 and summer began. The rain abated, and something surreal happened: it stayed sunny for two months. It’s like the universe said, “Oh hey Candice, let’s make this easier on you.” My friends rallied an awesome party for me. Then I booked an impromptu one-way ticket to Halifax, where I spent two months with two of my best friends. I explored Atlantic Canada, and gained newfound appreciation for Newfoundland.

I was published in print, and soon will be blogging for AOL Canada.

I put faces to names at TBEX in NYC, made amazing new friends, and partied my face off with some of the coolest people I’ve ever met.

All in all, I think I did okay.

So what’s up for 2011?

Halifax BFF.

Halifax BFF.

Awhile ago, I wrote about the rut I was in. The “black hole” of unemployment. Hours wasted watching television, being listless and completely hopeless. Scouring job ads to find nothing.

I don’t really know what happened, or why, but something clicked. Some combination of forces, I guess. An email from a friend encouraging me to move abroad, making new connections, and realizing my unemployment benefits are ruining my life.

So I made a decision: unless some amazing, stellar, life-changing dream job pops up over the next few months, I’m going to move abroad in 2011. I have no idea for how long, or where. I’m trying with all my might to get to Greece. Call me crazy, call me stupid, but it’s where I want to be more than anything in the world. Now might not be the perfect time to get there, but if not now, then when? I do want to settle eventually. Maybe I’ll own a house. Maybe I’ll have two kids or three, but right now…what do I have? No job prospects, no boyfriend, and lots of freedom.

Tor Bay Beach, NS.

Tor Bay Beach, NS.

My second major decision is to stop letting my financial situation dictate my life. I spent so much time paying off my debt, watching it all come undone is absolutely devastating. But that’s the thing…chances are, I’ll always have debt. Whether it’s a $10 credit card bill or a mortgage, debt is a part of my life. I’m not letting it stop me anymore.

So I’ll reduce my student loan payments to take care of the “bad” debt first. I’ll do it slowly, but I won’t add anymore bills, and I won’t exhaust myself worrying about it. I’m angry that I spent so much money paying for a great education that ultimately left me unemployable. There’s more to be learned in life from outside the classroom.

I’m going to spend more time improving my writing and getting published, but I’m going to let my career unfold naturally. I will spend more time working on this blog. I don’t expect to be a mega-famous travel blogger, and I choose not to join the ranks of country-counting and blogging hierarchies. I’m going to pick up part-time retail or bartending work after Christmas, and end my unemployment benefits. I cannot sit around being idle any longer.

TBEX rocks.

TBEX rocks.

I bought my very first DSLR yesterday, a Canon Rebel XS. I’ll be a triple-threat, a pen wielding, camera touting, bar dancing superstar.

I’m in the process of packing up my life. How does one person accumulate so much? Who needs 40 different colours of tissue paper for scrapbooking? Why haven’t I thrown out the old bottles of congealed nailpolish? Most of it I can sell, the rest I can store at my parents’ house.

I’m trying to get to Ireland in April, and Vancouver in June. Although, if I’m being honest with myself, it’s unlikely I can afford TBEX this year. I want to be Canada’s Newfoundland representation, but I think I’ve done a good job of that already.

I’m the happiest I’ve been in months.

So long, 2010. I’m about to make 2011 my bitch.

  • December 27 2010

    WOOHOO!! I love everything about this post. :D I do hope you get to Greece. I can meet you there when I go on vacay there someday. hehe.

    Cheers to 2011, Candice! Here’s to you grabbing life by the balls and making it work!

    • December 29 2010

      Nashe, if you do, you can crash at my place!

  • December 27 2010

    I couldn’t agree more with ur blog title! (Middle finger way up 2010, haha).

    I’m in the similar boat as you, and currently hoping to move abroad to New Zealand next year (got my visa approved) and just kind of wander around there to quote on quote “find more about myself”.

    Good luck with getting urself to Greece, and I def. wish you the best :)

    • December 29 2010

      Congrats on the VISA, and thanks for your words! Greece is a little tricky, but I’m gonna try my hardest.

  • December 27 2010

    Love this! I’m glad you are going after Greece and everything else you want. If you are heading to Ireland in April, we may have to meet. I’m planning on going either in February, March or April or all of the above. Madness would ensue so let me know. Congratulations on everything!

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Suzy! And dear god, can you imagine the fun we’d have in Ireland? Two gingers going back to their redheaded roots…

    • January 01 2011

      We’ll be in Ireland in March so let us know if both or either of you are there!! :)

  • December 27 2010

    DO EET!

    That is definitely an amazing attitude to take. Life will take care of you!

    • December 29 2010

      Thank ya, Erica! Let’s hope you’re right.

  • December 27 2010

    Way to go Candice! This is a really inspiring post. Gotta confess: your blog is one of the few travel blogs I read anymore because you embrace the lifestyle and go exploring in your own backyard. So thanks for being such an inspiring blogger and I can’t wait to follow all your bitchin’ adventures in the future! :)

    • December 29 2010

      Wow, Grace! Such kind words, thank you! I’m honored. Perhaps it’s time for me to explore beyond my backyard. :)

  • December 27 2010

    Great post! Do it, do it, do it! There’s no better way to say eff you to 2010 by having a rocking 2011.

    • December 29 2010

      Oh, that’s the plan! 2011: The Year of Candice.

  • December 27 2010

    You’re going to kick 2011’s butt, Candice! It’s great you’ve got a game plan… and if you want it badly enough, you’ll find a way to make it all happen.

    • December 29 2010

      I like having a plan, feels like I’ve been lost without one. Let’s hope things keep falling into place!

  • December 27 2010

    Love your attitude about 2010 and 2011. From someone who’s just started school, my student loans and debt are already freaking me out. But I think you’re right, there’ll always be debt so you just have to keep living. I’ve got to try and remember that.

    • December 29 2010

      It’s true, and hey, you’ll figure out how to make it work somehow. I am, sorta.

  • December 28 2010

    this is awesome candice!!! i was just talking with erica (over yonderlust) about a similar feeling a couple of nights ago. my version is telling fear to “suck it!” in 2011. :) congrats on a great year and an even better one to come. love that you’re taking a blind leap of faith in yourself. greece here you come :) idea- what about a donate “send me to TBEX” button? would love to meet you there! :)

    • December 29 2010

      Yay, thanks Lorna! I dig the enthusiasm and energy. Greece is gonna be difficult, but I think I can make it work. As for the donation, I don’t think I could do it in good conscience…not when so many other people need the cash! Who knows, something may work itself out.

  • December 28 2010

    Candice, I am SO proud of you!

    Get ready for an almost unimaginable level of happiness that comes with living the life of which you dreamed. :-)

    Looking forward to reading about your developments in the next year. Greece will be fantastic. And if that doesn’t pan out, there’s always Krabi province, a place that I still think you would LOVE. ;-)

    If you need anything…don’t hesitate to reach out.

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Kate! You’re one of my biggest inspirations for living the dream. If I can’t make Greece a reality right away, my next stop is Thailand!

  • December 28 2010
    Jamie

    Candace,
    I’ve been reading your blog for a bout six months now and i have to say this is one of my favourite posts yet! I dream of living in NFLD one day but have been letting costs get in my way. This year is going to change that! When you do get out west to Vancouver I would love to meet you, there are plenty of pubs you have to try! I would also gladly show you the northwest coast of the States as well, Seattle, Olympia, and Portland are all amazing cities!

    All my best and happy New Year,
    Jamie

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks for your comment, Jamie! Newfoundland would LOVE to have ya. Relocation sucks, but you’ll find living here is moderately priced…we have cheap beer, at least. :)

      As for Vancouver, I might have to take you up on that offer! I’m so excited to finally make it out west (hopefully). The furthest I’ve been yet is Ontario.

  • December 28 2010

    Bravo. I love the attitude. If you find yourself in South Korea, your first beverage is on me. Cheers :)

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Chris! I’m gonna hold ya to that. SK is also high on my list.

  • December 28 2010

    Was so looking forward to this post Candice and I’m so proud and excited for you!
    Congratulations on the new gig with AOL Canada and looking forward to the exciting progress and opportunities 2011 will bring for you.
    God bless!

    Lola

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks for being constantly supportive, Lola! You’ve been a big help this past year, as has the rest of the Matador team.

  • December 28 2010

    I love this post because it sums up how I’m feeling as well. First of all, I’m glad I got to meet you in 2010 and I hope our travel paths cross at some point in the future! Secondly, congratulations on being published and the AOL gig! I know a lot more great opportunities are coming for you and I would like to see you knock out those travel blogging heavyweights on all those top blog lists! You definitely deserve it. You are an actual writer. I have the same reasons to move abroad. The American economy blows and even if I can’t find a good job in Australia, at least it will be an adventure. I can’t wait to see you put 2011 in a headlock. And p.s. if you go to Greece, expect me to stop by! I’m DYING to go there.

    • December 29 2010

      Dang Caroline, thanks for the props! I guess the only way to be a true travel blogger is to actually travel, right? Hah. If you make it to Greece, you totally have a couch to crash on. ;) Maybe then I’ll be finely trained in the art of chasing Greek men…

  • December 28 2010

    I’m so happy that you’re going to move abroad! Greece is NEVER crazy or stupid! Go for it! Good luck in 2011, I doubt you’ll need it!

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks Connie, to Greece I go!

  • December 28 2010

    I hope 2011 will be a good year for you , 2011 is not an analyzing year its an action year…

    • December 29 2010

      I like that, an action year. :) Thanks!

  • December 28 2010

    Great attitude! Here’s to making 2011 your bitch. Ha!

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Lori! I’m gonna OWN it! Hahaha.

  • December 28 2010

    Candice – Great!! All good decisions. Really good camera too.
    The only mystery is why a pretty, smart and funny girl like you doesn’t have a bf? No rush on that anyway – you’re better off solo till you’re in a better place.

    Good luck!!
    robin

    • December 29 2010

      Oh Robin, at an age where all my friends are marrying off and having babies, I still have yet to experience a serious relationship. I’m positive it’s because I’ll find the Greek man of my dreams. ;)

      Thanks!

  • December 28 2010
    Ali

    This is so awesome!! Congrats on all the great things you’ve gotten out of the past several months. It sounds like you have an amazing outlook & a great plan for next year, more good things will come from it.

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Ali! I felt like I wasted a lot of time, but now I think things will fall into place…

  • December 28 2010

    I really liked your positive attitude, life can be tough sometimes , everyone feels low sometimes but it is very brave to stay positive.

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks! That’s the plan, stay positive. :)

  • December 28 2010

    I think it sounds like an awesome plan! Why waste anymore time? And debt shmet-you’re right. It’s ALWAYS gonna be there. It’s like death and taxes…..two constants in life. haha. Enjoy the camera and the plan!

    • December 29 2010

      Hahaha, SO true. As long as I don’t have the house and car, I’m solid. Thanks!

  • December 28 2010

    Loved this post! I think you have a great attitude and I know that will make all the difference for you in 2011. 2010 was hard for many of us 20-somethings and now 2011 is going to be our year to shine. Party it up girlie!

  • December 28 2010

    It’s funny how life can work – you could look at 2010 and let it be defined by the negative, and so could I when it comes to it. But if you don’t focus on the negative, 2010 was a pretty awesome year for us both. And I think 2011 is going to be ridiculous… maybe not in the way you’re hoping, but no matter what the lessons you learned this past year pretty much guarantee greatness.
    And, you know, it’s probably one of the reasons you and I became such good friends this year – my year was both awful and fanfreakintastic, and I think I know more who I am and what I want because of the awful even more than the fantasticness. Nothing like going through highs and lows alongside someone to cause bonding ;)

    so glad to hear the happiness in your post, and I know 2011 is going to keep the happiness going.

    • December 29 2010

      Haha, so true! Seriously, I started off trying to write this article on a low note. Then I was kinda like, WTF? This year was KICKASS. We hiked a fucking MOUNTAIN. TOGETHER. Now to tackle the world.

  • December 28 2010

    Candice, you inspire me. I spent way too much time panicking about finances, and I’m going to try and emulate your attitude about debt. It shouldn’t hold us back from adventures.

    Look out 2011! I can’t wait to see where you end up!

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Anne! Hopefully this won’t drive me into further debt and leave me starving on the streets of Athens, but I’m being optimistic. ;)

  • December 28 2010

    I’m really excited to see where you end up going, Candice. The world is indeed very much your oyster. You most definitely have already become Newfoundland’s spokesperson :) And congratulations on the AOL job!

    • December 29 2010

      Thank ya, Sabina! I’ll keep you posted on the AOL stuff. Life is good.

  • December 28 2010

    That’s the spirit! I love it! And I know you will find a way to get to Greece :)

    • December 29 2010

      God I hope so, Abbie! Come visit if I do.

  • December 28 2010

    woooohooooo! 2011 is the year of then Red-headed revenge! And maybe the year you swing out to the West coast to visit your friends in Seattle?

    • December 29 2010

      I’d freaking LOVE to visit! Will you be at TBEX?

  • December 28 2010

    I love this post. SO. MUCH. in fact, I had to do a long ass response (taken by my Tumblr):

    I normally don’t do this, unless I come across reading something so true and so inspiring, I feel the need to quote it on here. but most nights out of the week I obsessively read through my Google Reader and find a piece that strikes a chord in me. tonight, it’s a blog post written by a girl who’s become a good friend of mine, and sort of my Canadian twin.

    there’s only a select few people who really know how much this year has sucked ass for me, but has turned out in the end to be a blessing in disguise. there are few people I cried on, poured my heart out to, and let into my world of depression through all the job losses and debt accumulation. Candice was one of those people. why? because she’s been through the exact same thing as me, at the exact same time as I was going through it all. for weeks we’d update each other on our job hunting progress, who we’d interview with, who we’d get rejected by, then when we’d get drunk and try to drink our problems away. the point is we both were there for each other and came out in the end with a bigger appreciation for similar things: friends, travel, and making a career of your own.

    which is why I love this blog post so much. it’s one of the perfect examples of why I love where I am right now, why I’m happy that those jobs didn’t work out, and why I’m not letting anything stop me from doing what I want in the future. and most importantly, why I feel so happy to end this year and begin anew:

    So I made a decision: unless some amazing, stellar, life-changing dream job pops up over the next few months, I’m going to move abroad in 2011. I have no idea for how long, or where. I’m trying with all my might to get to Greece. Call me crazy, call me stupid, but it’s where I want to be more than anything in the world. Now might not be the perfect time to get there, but if not now, then when? I do want to settle eventually. Maybe I’ll own a house. Maybe I’ll have two kids or three, but right now…what do I have? No job prospects, no boyfriend, and lots of freedom.

    people often ask me why I want to always leave all the time. and the answer is summed up above. there really is no better time to go out and live than now. so why not take advantage of that?

    My second major decision is to stop letting my financial situation dictate my life. I spent so much time paying off my debt, and now watching it all come undone is absolutely devastating. But that’s the thing…chances are, I’ll always have debt. Whether it’s a $10 credit card bill or a mortgage, debt is a part of my life. I’m not letting it stop me anymore. So I’ll reduce my student loan payments to take care of the “bad” debt first. I’ll do it slowly, but I won’t add anymore debt, and I won’t exhaust myself worrying about it. I’m angry that I spent so much money paying for a great education that ultimately left me unemployable. There’s more to be learned in life from outside the classroom.

    this. so much of this. my father has always been the first one to tell me not to worry about the student loans hanging over my head. and sometimes I listen, sometimes I don’t. it’s hard to spend money like no big deal when you know in the back of your mind you owe $100k to a college you didn’t choose in the first place. I don’t even keep in touch with any of my college friends, and the last time I visited was like 2 years ago. though I loved my education and actually do work in my field, if I knew I’d be suffering in debt for the rest of my life, I would’ve thought harder about where I’d study (Italy has free university someone told me, wtf was I thinking?!) but the truth is I will ALWAYS be in debt, and so sometimes I need to take me time and do things that make me happy. I’ve become much more aware of materialistic possessions, and of prioritizing my finances. yes I still live check to check but I manage my money in a way that’s responsible and will help me fulfill personal/professional goals. I can’t let that debt way over me forever. government letters and bank statements be damned!

    I don’t expect to be a mega-famous travel blogger, and I choose not to join the ranks of country-counting and blogging hierarchies.

    can I tell you how great it is to find someone who DOESN’T aspire to be the next Nomadic Matt?

    I’m the happiest I’ve been in months.

    so am I girl, and I have my fingers crossed for greater happiness in the new year.

    • December 29 2010

      I love that you LOVE this post, Alisha! Thanks for being one of the most supportive, awesome people in my life this year. Crazy I didn’t even really get to hang out with you at TBEX, but we still became friends anyway. We’ll take over the world, don’t you worry. xo

  • December 28 2010

    What a great post Candice! That is how I felt about 2010, or at least the last half of it. I made the last 6 months, in your words, “my bitch”, with the final big change being to move to Costa Rica for the winter, which started yesterday. Although just a day in, it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m in some of the same boat. I still have some debt, but decided to get rid of things like a financed car and other things that were in many ways tying me down. You’ll be alright and figure things out. Can’t wait to see what happens!

    • December 29 2010

      So proud of you, Spencer! Woot. I was thinking, if I moved abroad and even cut my rent and utilities, phone bill and Internet and Cable bill, I’d be saving a ridiculous amount of money (if I get the program I want). Funny how our “necessities” aren’t really necessities at all. *cue Jungle Book song*

  • December 28 2010

    Fantastic post, and I don’t think I could relate anymore to this.
    As you hope to be “The One” to represent NewFoundLand we hope to do the same for Alberta.
    I hope to meet you abroad somewhere.

    Again, wonderful post. I loved it

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks so much, Jamie! I’m sure our paths will cross at some point.

  • December 28 2010

    Best of luck in 2011!

  • December 29 2010

    Love this post! I’ve had a similar year… lots of the comments you made resonated with me. Best of luck for a stupendous 2011 and I hope you make it to Greece! Speaking of which, I came across this other website after reading your post and I thought you might like it… http://www.greecelogue.com/winter-in-greece.html
    Cheers! :)

    • December 29 2010

      Thanks, Laura! And oh dear god what a dreamy post…I had to bookmark it. And read it again. And cry a little.

  • December 29 2010

    Like everyone else is saying, great post! Your attitude is amazing and it’s great to hear you plan to follow your heart, because ultimately that leads to true happiness anyway.

    PS. I can’t wait to see your DSLR shots.. though each one will make me more jealous of your purchase :)

    • December 29 2010

      I hope so, Sean! Thanks for your kind words. Let’s hope I don’t destroy my camera the first day I have it. :)

  • December 29 2010

    A . FREAKIN . MEN .

  • December 29 2010

    I loved your post and wish you the very best of luck in finding your way. Living abroad is the way to go. Cheers & safe travels!

    • December 29 2010

      Thank you, Mari! I can’t wait to get outside my comfort zone…

  • December 29 2010

    FAN-FUCKING-TABULOUS! I was totally thinking about teaching abroad, when life kicks you in the junk, you have to throw everything on its head to figure out where you belong…right? I’m probably way too much of a scardy-cat…but maybe it can be my goal. I think if I get fed up enough…if I have to move to teach…better to move to another state or really take a chance? These are the questions rolling around in my head.

    I can’t wait until I get to where you are. You are awesome. You are brave. You will kick ass. Whatever you do next will be magic, because your life before this didn’t deserve the genius that is YOU!! Sending love from MN…ever want to visit here (and who the hell would) there’s a room in our basement that’s yours for free as long as you want.

  • December 29 2010

    And my dream places I would teach (as if I could choose) would be Greece or Africa. I mean the photographs I could take would BLOW MY MIND.

    • December 29 2010

      Ooh Kate, hope you don’t regret those words! Hehe, just kidding, I’m an excellent guest. ;) Thanks SO much, your comment made me grin from ear to ear. I hope you do decide to teach abroad at some point, even if it’s short-term!

      So inspired by everyone’s faith in me. THANK you!

  • December 29 2010

    Bravo on a well done post! I really connected with the fact that I also have student loan debt, which I’ve been angry about for years. But you’re taking control of that, I haven’t seen anyone put it those words, I would like to hear more on your mindset how to take on life without feeling burdened by debts. Also, I have been unemployed receiving benefits for the past 2 years and have been developing my art career. The benefits will end in March though and I don’t want my career ambitions to stall. I even thought about teaching overseas (TESOL) because I don’t have much faith in finding something in the USA. Keep up the good work@!

    • December 29 2010

      Josh, as I make this happen over the next year or more, I’ll definitely document how I coped financially. Right now my plan is to just pick up contractual positions and squirrel away a chunk of each paycheck for savings, while making debt payments as I go. Not far from my old routine, really…except I’ll probably have to put in twice as much work. But anyway, we’ll see what happens. Good luck with your art career! If anything, the possibility of losing your benefits will likely spur you on harder…that’s pretty well what’s happened to me. :)

  • December 29 2010

    What a statement! Just found your blog via TMFProject & I love it already. Your header’s the best I’ve seen in AGES!

    Super good luck to you in your abroad experiment. I want to travel so bad in 2011- it’s looking pretty crazy over here, too, as I’m actually LEAVING school to pursue entrepreneurship. It’s awesome to read about someone also beginning to go after her dreams and really doing something about it!

    If you ever want some style strategy to leverage in your new life, hit me up! :D Keep inspiring!

    • January 02 2011

      Tessa, I could always use new style strategy! Hahaha. Glad you found this post inspiring, and I think it’s awesome you’re pursuing entrepreneurship.

  • December 30 2010

    good luck chasing your dreams and following your heart. I trust the finger represents 2011 you are following what’s most important, your #1, right…

    stay adventurous, Craig

    • January 02 2011

      Precisely! Otherwise that’s just rude. ;) Thanks, Craig.

  • December 30 2010

    This better mean you are finally going to Asia!

  • December 30 2010

    What an awesome post Candice! That is amazing news about AOL Canada and being a published writer. Go where you want to go girl, if Greece is calling that is where you should be. I would love to spend some time there. I know big things are going to happen for you whatever you decide to do.

    • January 02 2011

      Thanks so much, I hope so! Really nice to see so much faith in me, it’s really inspiring. Now to keep dreaming of Greece…

  • December 31 2010
    Susan

    I love this quote:

    “I’ll be a triple-threat, a pen wielding, camera touting, bar dancing superstar.”

    Glad you’re getting out of your rut. Can’t wait to see you in the new year. :D

    • January 02 2011

      Thanks, you too! Even though you’ll be all tanned and shit. Psh.

  • January 01 2011

    YES such an AMAZING post! I love everything about it!

    I knew you would get abroad this year, keep working for Greece because you can get there!!

    As far as 2010, isn’t it funny how it turned out in the end! I think you’ve had some of the best adventures of all of us!

    You’re awesome! Keep it up!

    • January 02 2011

      Aww, thanks so much Annie! I love it. I’m trying my best to get to Greece, we’ll see what happens!

  • January 01 2011

    Can’t wait to see you get out into the world mate. I’ll be sure to track you down when you make it over this way for a beer.

    • January 02 2011

      Here’s hoping! If I have a stopover in London, I’ll know where to find ya. ;)

  • January 02 2011

    Holy shitballs thats a lot of comments I thought I should add another :)
    thanks for including me bff 4 life what what!!!

    (ps everyone else I agree with all of your comments and have previously expressed my excitement to Candice and her potential I swear I’m a good friend haha)

    • January 02 2011

      Hahaha, don’t worry, you don’t have to comment because everyone else does! I talk to you enough already. Geeeeeez. Let’s go to Athens.

  • January 02 2011

    Hey Candice, cheers to making 2011 be your bitch! Keep up the good blogging, I always enjoy your posts!

  • January 03 2011

    Candice, I like this post a lot. I spent the first half of 2010 being depressed because I had lost my Barbie Dream Job. My motto for 2011 is Taking Back Control and letting my passions dictate the choices I make. It sounds like you’re well on that path as well. Kudos and Happy Trails!

    • January 06 2011

      Thanks, Chris! I’m sorry to hear you lost your dream job, it’s always a rude awakening, eh? Cheers to 2011!

  • January 03 2011

    Making the decision is often the hardest step, so congratulations on busting the doldrums. I wish you the best of luck – you deserve it. I’m bummed that you won’t be at TBEX!!

    • January 06 2011

      Thanks, Keith! Who knows, I might get there yet…hope to see you there!

  • January 04 2011

    I loooove this post!!! YES! Make 2011 your best year yet. The decision is in YOUR hands. Kick ass girl! Fingers crossed you figure out a way to get to Greece. :)

  • January 04 2011

    Good luck with 2011 Candice, and happy new year :-)

    Why months until living abroad though? Start your plan now and go for it.

    If it helps, I lost my job before Christmas 2008 and was in Malaysia March 2009, I only hung around to receive redundancy payment, get a motorbike licence and a cheaper flight (booking for going soon is expensive, for 3 months ahead should be half as much).

    • January 06 2011

      There’s a few reasons why I have to wait a little longer, which I won’t divulge at the moment. :) But don’t worry, I’ll get there! Thanks Rob!

  • January 10 2011

    That sucks that you lost your job but it seems as if your optimistic and I love your idea of living abroad in Greece. Specially when you said you have no boyfriend, job, or children yet so you might as well take advantage of it. Good luck

  • January 20 2011

    Great post I like your style. At the start of 2010 I left my job, sold everything I own and brought a bicycle then spent 3 months cycling around Greece. Store nothing but photo’s, getting rid of your material possions is almost as good a feeling as the travel it;s self gives you.

    • January 22 2011

      Agh, you cycled around Greece?! What a dream! I’m envious.

  • March 29 2011

    You rock.

    Is all. Yes.

    Even if you are, like, the *slowest* reader in the world, how far are you though the list of books I’ve suggested, how many more have you got left, hey I have another ten so *hurry up* already….

    But aside from? You rock.

    • March 30 2011

      Hey now, I’m ALMOST done Eurydice Street! Pshhh. But thank you. :)

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