17 & 18 June 2025
Happy birthday, Annie!
It’s hard to believe we’re already in the middle of 2025. Just yesterday it was December, and I was still daydreaming about this trip. So much has changed since then that some days I hardly recognize myself. And yet, in the deepest ways, I feel more me than ever before — the little girl dreams I once tucked away now alive again as I travel, remember, and reclaim more of who I truly am.
Catching up with family has become a precious thread woven into my weeks. The time difference and everyone’s work schedules mean it doesn’t always happen, but when it does, it fills my heart. Yesterday, I spent a few hours on a video call with my brother Joe, his partner, and their little girl. Kota is the sweetest — such a bright soul. Since the moment she was born, we’ve had this unspoken bond. I love her to bits and miss being able to scoop her up and kiss those chubby cheeks. A video call isn’t the same as a real-life hug, but it still fills me with gratitude for the chance to share stories, laughter, and even “Wi-Fi kisses.”
I didn’t have to think long about moving over to Step In hostel. I just knew I’d enjoy it more, so I started packing — again. Yesterday, I met Yous, the other volunteer girl working here, and instantly liked her. Even though our shifts won’t overlap much, I can already tell we’re going to get along really well. She’s from the Netherlands, which gives me yet another reason to visit one day — one of the gifts of traveling and volunteering is that it sprinkles your heart with friendships and gives you couches to crash on all over the world.
Settling into my new room felt easy, like sliding into a space that had been waiting for me. It’s definitely an upgrade from my last spot. After unpacking, I came down for my first afternoon shift. The vibe here is just different — livelier, warmer, more vibrant. The building itself is older, but there’s so much more light. The reception area actually has windows that look out onto the street, instead of the bleak, enclosed passage back at Dorms. It didn’t take long for me to feel at home here — the same way I felt when I arrived at Shanti Hostel in India.
My room is up on the second floor, and there’s enough space for my yoga practice — a rare luxury. There’s even a window, and while it only looks out over another building’s parking area, it still feels far more open and alive. I have a feeling this space will let me slip back into a consistent routine — and finally catch up on everything I’ve been feeling behind on these past few months.
