From Home to Poland: An Unexpected Journey

Hey, lovely readers! It's Monika here, and I've embarked on a journey that took me from the comfort of my home to the heart of Poland, my homeland. It's been four long years since I last saw my family, and I thought it was time for a surprise visit. Join me on this unexpected adventure as I share the highs, the lows, and all the hilarious mishaps along the way.

The Joys of Traveling: I used to be quite the globetrotter, but life had other plans. With my third dog, Benji, a lockdown, and a shift to working from home, I've hardly left my house. Booking this trip felt surreal, but my little nephew's innocent question about my Polish language skills reminded me of what truly matters.

The Art of Keeping Secrets: Keeping this trip a secret from my family, especially my dear brother, hasn't been easy. The anticipation has been building, but I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when they find out.

Packing Adventures: Let's talk about packing! I went all-out with my suitcase, which is half-filled with peanut butter goodies (yes, they have those in Poland!), July 4th souvenirs, and, of course, a stack of leggings. My dad will surely comment on my fashion choices, but I'm all about comfort these days.

Changing Tastes: Reflecting on how my clothing choices have evolved over the years is quite amusing. I've gone from an all-black wardrobe to an array of light and bright colors. It's a testament to how living in the States has influenced my style.

Last Moments with My Dogs: Saying goodbye to my furry companions was an emotional rollercoaster. I've never been away from them for more than a night in three years, so this separation feels like an eternity.

Airport Antics: Airport adventures are always amusing. I'm testing the waters with working remotely from anywhere, including the airport. The goal is to spend more quality time with my family in the future, so let's see how this experiment goes.

Embracing Emotions: Handling emotions is key. I've cried more than once today, from saying goodbye to my dogs to the sheer excitement of the journey. Learning to manage emotions and reactions is something I've been working on, and it makes life so much smoother.

First-Class Surprises: Flying first-class was a game-changer. The space, the food, and the privacy were top-notch. It's an experience I won't forget, and I even watched movies with titles related to my trip, adding a layer of significance.

The Privilege of Privacy: The privacy on the first-class flight was a surprise. It felt like I had my own room in the sky. Interactions with other passengers were minimal, and it allowed for deep reflection and relaxation.

The Movie Trio: I watched three movies during the flight. "Ted" for some laughs, "Aida" for a glimpse into post-war Poland, and "Dog" for its heartwarming tale of canine companionship. Each film left me with something to ponder.

Privacy and Perspective: The flight and movies reminded me of the importance of perspective and managing reactions. A little space can provide room for reflection and a change in viewpoint.

Reunion with Family: I'm finally in Poland, and the surprise for my family was a success. The joy of seeing my loved ones after four years is immeasurable. There's so much catching up to do, and I can't wait to share all these moments with you.

Trampoline Fun: As I write this, I'm on a trampoline with my nephews, ages six and nine, eagerly waiting for my mom to arrive. We're bouncing away and making unforgettable memories.

Stay tuned for more updates on my adventures in Poland! Until next time, take care, and keep embracing life's unexpected journeys.