The Adventure Has Begun

The time has come and I am beginning to feel both anxious and excited about this new season of my life. I know that the next 9 months will be some of the best months of my life and I know it won't be easy and will take some adjusting but it will be worth it. It is scary to think I will be so far away from home, over 3,000 miles away from the people I love, it is nerve-racking to sit and think about the distance. My parents helped me rearrange my gear and clothing so both my checked bags were just under 50 pounds and my carry-on or 'personal item' would be small enough that hopefully I don't get harassed to check it and pay extra. I am COMPLETELY packed holy cow I did not think that would ever happen. A few things didn't make the cut that I am hoping I do not later regret not having. As I write this I am charging the new wireless semi-noise cancelling headphones I had to purchase because my pair didn't make the cut. Here's to hoping I am as prepared as I feel like I am for this journey.

Up at 3 am and off to the airport by 4 am, it was harder to get up than I expected and my sweet pups looked so peaceful I didn't want to leave them. Glasses and cozy clothes are the look of the day, and my nerves were back and more frustrating than ever. The first of many trips where I am jaunting around the world without my parents and I will have to get used to early airport trips and saying "See you guys at Christmas!" We said our goodbyes and as I'm sure everyone wanted to know, yes my mom lost her dollar today and cried during our farewells. My mom used to pay Riley my 18-year old sister a dollar for each day she didn't cry and although she doesn't do it anymore it's a running joke now anytime someone cries that they've lost their dollar. I lost my dollar big time when I was saying goodbye to that sweet boyfriend of mine William Boggs. Distance makes the heart grow fonder is what I've been told and I sure hope they're right.

One flight later and I am killing 12-hours in Newark airport waiting for my redeye to Dublin, who the heck makes someone have a 12-hour layover just to get a good deal (referring to United Airlines not my mom.) I have done several hours of remote work because why not make use of this free time and strong wifi while I have it and I have learned the ins and outs of Terminal C at Newark Airport.

Everyone check out this tasty pasta salad and GIANT chocolate chip cookie that is literally the size of my face that I found at the Global Bazaar

6 hours down of this never-ending layover and I have a Benadryl, eye mask, neck pillow, and those new headphones to try and sleep through my red-eye that doesn't board until 6:50 pm. The next time you'll hear from me I'll be in Ireland so wish me luck! :)