Moving on.

I realised something the other day.

That is not nearly specific enough or dramatic enough for this story.

Let me start again...

I had a startling realisation the other day.

I think Scotland and I are starting to go our separate ways (and I am not talking about Brexit)

I was in Glasgow a few weeks ago, and I went on a tourist bus tour.

I actually went on it twice, and I loved it.

I got to see all the attractions I have wanted to see over the years:

The Cathedral, the Necropolis, The Transport Museum, The People's Palace.

It was very similar to something I did just before I left Edinburgh, my own little way of saying goodbye. When I got on the train home, I realised that in my own wee way, I was saying goodbye to Glasgow. Other than a course there on the 11th of May, I have no idea when I am going to be there next.

I have no gigs booked, my upcoming flights to Ireland are all from Edinburgh. 

I feel rather sad that my attachment to Glasgow has severed. In my head it was where I would eventually call home. Now, I am not so certain.

This does not mean that I have resigned myself to a life in Aberdeen. Far from it.

I have started doing the same to Aberdeen. 

I have a list of things to do in the city, and over my past few days off I have been ticking things off that list. 

It is like I am subconsciously doing by Scotland bucket list. 

I have always said that if I were to leave Scotland, I would take a wee holiday first and go see Oban, Skye, Loch Lomond etc... (Imagine, I have never been to Loch Lomond!) 

I have already started working in when I can go to these places. The sooner I get myself on the road the better. 

I spoke to Claire about this turn of events.

As always, she had some wise words to say.

She feels that I have always had this ridiculous notion that the best version of Louise was the version who lived in Glasgow. As I have been kept away, I have been forced to just appreciate who I am, wherever I am as the best version of Louise. Does that make sense? It did in my head, and it did when Claire said it to me but I am not so sure that I have translated it into words correctly.

I think she is right.

I spoke to my adopted big brother Paul about it.

He reckons that I have already made up my mind.

That I have already decided that it is time to leave.

Maybe he is right. He does know me rather well.

A year ago today, I started all over again.

In the past year, I have made some amazing friends, I have dated more in the last year than I have in the three years before. I have rebuilt my confidence in the workplace. I have a great team around me. I love my wee flat. I am a very fortunate woman.

My boss asked me the other day what was next for Louise. 

I said Europe. 

Something French.

Isn't it funny how I have never lost that dream.

The dream of living somewhere in France

I wouldn't say no to London

or to Manchester

or to anything that will allow me to continue to progress within this company.

While I wait for that progression I have started to work on Louise too

I have started swimming

I will have my driving licence by the end of the year

I am currently walking 5 miles 5 times a week 

The more I exercise the clearer my thoughts become.

While I love Scotland from the bottom of my heart

I think that a farther land my take its hold. 

A land without kilts and bearded men (quelle horreur!)

32 was a great year.

Let's see where 33 takes me!