Special Broadcast from the End of the World

Dear friends and readers,

Last week I made it to Norway, my final country after more than a decade of going everywhere.

Such an occasion deserved to be shared, so that’s just what we did. First, a group of 16 friends, family members, and readers joined Jolie and me for a two-day tour from Oslo to Bergen.

Last night, we were joined by approximately 120 other friends and readers (from 18 countries!) for a grand celebration in Oslo. You can see a few photos below (click to enlarge) or more over here.

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This weekend was the culmination of an 11-year odyssey. In 2002 I moved overseas and began working in West Africa.

A few years later, I started writing this blog and sharing the journey with others. Seven years ago I did the math and publicly announced that the quest would end on my 35th birthday. That day was yesterday. Right on time!

I’m still figuring out what it all means and how my life has been changed as a result of the project, but I was very glad to celebrate with some of you in person. For everyone who reads AONC but wasn’t able to come to Norway, I greatly appreciate you as well.

Thanks for being out there.

A Reminder to You, The Readers

As I said last week, if you want to pursue a dream, it’s not too late! You too can see the world or do whatever you’d like. If people tell you it can’t be done, so much the better.

Celebrating in Norway with a group of amazing people (many of whom traveled from far away to attend) was a living example that many of us long for community and challenge.

If you’re out there and pondering your next steps, you are not alone. There are people out there who see the world in a similar way. When you begin to chart a new course of life or take a step of faith, you can find the support you need.

This concludes the public service announcement.

Yours from the End of the World,

Chris Guillebeau

P.S. Lots of people are asking “What’s next?” It’s a fair question, but I need some time to think about it. For now I’ll keep writing, traveling, and working away on things I enjoy.

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Image: Wes