[Hikaru's Izakaya Diary] I'm Off! Don't Miss Me Too Much, Okay? 2/25/2023

Let me start by getting down on my knees for you all... For this trip abroad I've been waiting two or three years for, January and February have been absolutely insane, and I kept forgetting to write my weekly diary QQ. Right now I'm actually stuck typing this whole thing on my phone because of equipment and material limitations, but once I'm overseas I should have tons of photos and stories to share on the site — maybe that'll turn into a whole different way of doing this?

As I'm writing this, I'm literally getting ready to head abroad, but I really wanted to get something off my chest before I go. I have to say, the pandemic a few years back genuinely hit my mental health and my whole outlook on life hard — you know, that whole "post-pandemic depression" thing? On top of that, between work and then starting my VTuber career, I hadn't left the country in years. This trip was actually supposed to happen two years ago, but work got in the way and it never happened. Last year I told myself I still shouldn't be off having fun, that I needed to keep putting my time into streaming, so that didn't happen either. I held out all the way until this year, and finally — finally — it's my turn to go out and actually enjoy myself. Pat myself on the back and say "you did good." But at the same time, I know full well that if it weren't for all of you supporting me this whole time, there's no way I'd ever have the chance to plan out an entire month-long trip like this. I can't put my gratitude into words — I just hope you'll enjoy hearing about my life abroad as it happens.

Let me confess something embarrassing first... I'm always telling you all how great budget airlines are for getting to Southeast Asia cheap, but a 7kg carry-on limit is SO inconvenient!!!! Especially when I have to pack my streaming gear — I barely had room for any clothes, so I'm basically showing up with almost nothing and just buying clothes when I get there XD. I guess that's part of the fun of traveling too, though maybe it's not for everyone! But that's travel for you — nothing's ever perfect. I honestly can't wait to share everything that happens on this trip with you all.

That's about it — I'm about to head out. Wishing you all smooth sailing, and wishing myself a smooth flight~~~