As I sit here typing this, I really should be packing my bags, converting my money to euros and, in all actuality, having a one-day-before-I-leave-the-country freak out. I am happy to report, however, especially in regards to that last one there, that I feel...fine. Surprisingly. I'm a little nervous and excited (okay, a lot!), but not too upset/anxious/uncomfortable. So, I've got that going for me, which is nice.
Regardless of how I'm feeling right this minute, what I'd like to express most in this first blog entry (or dispatch, as I like to call them) is how much I appreciate all the support, encouragement and advice I've received from family, friends, friends of friends, and people I've encountered on various CTA buses and trains, in line at the grocery store, etc. But, since those folks will probably never see this (famous last words?), I just want you to know how grateful I am for the help. You know who you are. You've filled me in on how best to prepare to leave Chicago, tolerate the eight-hour flight and overcome the subsequent jet lag, navigate my new city and cope with the inevitable pangs of homesickness I will encounter. I'll let you know how all that that pans out. And more!
Stay tuned (please) to this here fancy-spangled new blog o' mine for updates on what I'm doing, where I'm going and how I'm faring. Oh, and check in every once in a while to make sure I'm not drinking too much vino...
Ciao!
Shenanigans,
ReplyDeleteLet me be the first of many to wish you "bon voyage" and Godspeed! Thank you for creating this blog and, by doing so, dragging me into the 21st Century of Internet intimacy -- not! But do let me say this: I am one of only two people in the universe who can say "I'm glad you are my daughter." So I will. "I'm glad you are my daughter." And I love you (which many other people in the universe can and do say). Dad
Hey, Sis! I am learning how to technology! Aren't you proud? Any chance we get to chat while you're closer to the Atlantic than the Mediterranean? I'ma call you tonight anyway, so git ready for that. I love you to bits and I can't wait to hear all about the fun times you'll be having and the cool Italian slang you'll be learning! (That's my new bike, by the way! Not Italian...French!)
ReplyDeleteHey baby girl, I wish for you the best European Adventure of all adventures, ever. As always, you will be one of my first thoughts every morning, and will be remembered in my prayers every night. Be safe, sweet girl. xoxoxo Mom
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