Before J left in January 2022, I booked my flights to visit him during the end of the summer. 7 months of waiting for another visit felt like nothing compared to the two years we had just endured... we could handle it. The end of August came quickly and before I knew it, I was boarding my first flight in over 2 years!
This trip, I flew with British Airways. I actually didn't mind the flight itself; I found it was relatively easy to settle in and relax once I was on the plane. 9 hours after leaving Vancouver I was in Heathrow airport, which was a whole new experience for me as I had not previously connected there before. The airport is HUGE but there are signs everywhere to point you in the right direction. Another short flight later, I landed in Scotland, ready for another adventure with J.
And I know I use that word a lot - I mean, "adventure" is literally in the name of this blog! But let me tell you, this visit to see J was filled with lots of adventures that we hadn't planned for. There was flooded train lines and extra bus rides, runs through Glasgow, a bicycle accident and trip to the ER, walks that turned into bush-whacking, and medical flare-ups that flipped our days upside down. Through all of these things, J and I were able to laugh and carry on. Nothing stopped us from continuing our day trips, nights away, and friendly hang outs. We spent days out with his friends, stayed in Glasgow overnight and made a trip to Loch Lomond, and enjoyed the (fortunately) good weather!
One day we had an impromptu barbeque on the beach with his friends, which was so much fun! One of the images above is the sunset from that day. It was really nice to feel at home with the group and be a part of their night. J and I spent a lot of days outside while I visited and because I had bought a bike to use while I was there, we were able to go to further places and see new views! We also painted ceramics, tried new ice cream flavors, and visited an aquarium.
My third trip to Scotland was amazing, and despite the small hiccups and accidents during my stay, J and I had an awesome time! We got to visit parks and castles, check out a cat café, and explore his area with a new perspective as this time around we also considered my plan to move there during our days out. I tried riding the bus alone, going out to a café with a friend, and shopping on my own. All small and mundane activities, but ones that gave me a sense of freedom and independence in a new place.
And as always, in no time at all, my visit was over and J was dropping me off at the airport again. But this time I wasn't as sad. Of course there were tears... but both of us knew our time apart wouldn't last long this time around. My plan to move to the UK is still in full-swing and in 4 short months, we hope to be reunited together once again! And this time, there won't be a return flight booked.
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