I started this blog (secretly) a few months ago. I wasn't sure if I would share it or if it would be more of a personal thing. I've decided to share it with a few close friends and family. I'm not going to publish every detail on facebook or send the link to my entire email address book. But, those special people who I know would love to be part of my adventures and who I would love to share this experience with are only going to support me and be happy to hear about what silly things I've done with my day. I hope everyone enjoys reading about my trip as much as I am hoping I will enjoy living it!

In less than 4 days, I'll be starting my trip of a lifetime! Europe is just about 90 hours away. I can't believe it's here already. I've been packing and planning of course, but I am far from ready. What to leave? What to take? What am I forgetting? I have the essentials, of course. And, it is Europe, not a third world country so I can buy things there. I always get a little anxious when traveling; don't over-sleep, remember to print my ticket, separate my liquids before I go through security, make sure I make my connections, get in line early so I have room for my luggage overhead, where do I go when I arrive... This time there is extra pressure though; will I understand the language and the signage, how does Customs work or is there anything special involved in getting on or off the plane, can I find my way to my hotel on my own and what will it be like when I get there, will I be so jet-lagged that I am unable to function correctly? Well, I guess I will find out soon enough!! I think I'm about as ready as I am going to be... now if I can just finish my work so that I can relax knowing that everything is taken care of in my absense.