Day One: Takeoff

Yesterday was a whirlwind of emotions. I’ve been pretty calm about the whole thing for the years that I’ve been dreaming about it, but the tears started rolling yesterday when I had to leave my pup (because how can I make those sad eyes understand that I’m going to come back?) and my family (because they cried and I couldn’t handle it). I guess you could say I didn’t understand the weight of what I’m doing, and really I still don’t, I just faced reality a little more yesterday. I already had to prove to myself that I am in charge of the perspective I take on my experiences. It’s easy to be grumpy because I’m tired or overwhelmed or not feeling well, but if I let that stuff determine how my experience goes then I’m failing myself. It’s my job to choose to be strong and see the beautiful things because this is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I don’t want to miss it.

One of the coolest things that happened yesterday was at airport security (weird, right?). I was in a very long and slow line when someone came around and said that a different line would go much quicker, so I went for it. Turns out it was one of the security lines that use dogs for the pre-check, so I didn’t have to take off my shoes or take anything out of my bag. Plus, the dog was adorable and extremely hard not to pet or talk to. Overall it was very efficient and smooth and a surprisingly great experience.

I’ve done a lot of independent travel in my life, but this really does feel like I’m actually on my own. It never really hit until yesterday that I know no one on this trip, and I don’t know what I’m getting into. I’m excited for how that will make me grow. Right now, I miss friends and familiarity, but I’m also very excited for the new things and people I don’t know and will surely love. I would also just like to say thank you to those who have helped me get here, who have believed in me, and for my friends and family who have said they are proud of me for making this dream a reality. I’ve wanted this for a very long time and I’m so happy that I’m actually doing it, and having people in my life who recognize that too makes me feel very special and proud. The plane is about to land so I’ll write more when there’s more to tell; I love you all!