3...2..1... Take Off!

I am posting my last blog post for about 36 hours at least as I embark on my 22 straight hours of travel to Chicago, then Paris, then Le Havre. Just as a note to all those who want tips on mentally preparing for this sort of a trip, I recommend thoroughly studying the information concerning your flights and your trains, and sticking to your plan if you're meeting up with someone. That way you at least have peace of mind concerning your journey. Gaahhh! I am so excited! I leave in 24 minutes for the airport! Woot!

Countdown: 1 Day!

Well folks, this is it. I leave for France tomorrow!!!! Today was my last whole day designated to packing (which roughly translates into "somewhat organized violent cramming" of last-minute items) and preparation. I bought snack food for the flight, which includes life savers of course, and decided that I was going to bring along my pillow because then I wouldn't have to buy one in France and I would have it for sleeping on the plane. Other than that, I am settling down to enjoy the last few hours I have left with my husband before we spend 3 and half months apart.

I rated today a 95 because I spent the first half of this day completely elated with excitement, but realized tonight that I was going to have to say good-bye to my husband tomorrow, something I never like doing, so I got a little sad. Plus, there is a little bit of stress and worry about everything going smoothly tomorrow. However, I am so so so excited, it is definitely still a 95.

Countdown: 9 Days

Wow, am I ever getting excited about leaving for France! Even though I am working all this next week, I am only 9 days away from my departure into the exciting unknown! At this point I have packed my suitcase (which I no longer dare to look at for fear of it exploding, or exceeding the weight limit of 50 pounds) and it is ready to go at 49.8 pounds. I have also completely packed my duffel, except my cosmetic bag, and set it aside. My purse is looking ready to go, and is currently housing all of my important papers, a book, umbrella, my laptop, my wallet, some school notebooks, my glasses, and three sticks of chapstick - and probably something else that I am not remembering off the top of my head. I also have decided on the bottom half of my travel outfit... still not sure about what shirt I'm going to wear, but that is ok because it is one more item that I will get to remove from my duffel as opposed to shove-in last second. (= 

Relaxation Before Departure

Right now I am with my family in Florida on Little Gasparilla Island enjoying the bright sun, the ocean, and our local, private pool. Life has been almost nothing but pure relaxation and games. My family ate out at Rum Bay restaurant, the only restaurant on the island and took the picture you see here.

Additionally, I am pleased to announce that David and I bought our round-trip plane tickets yesterday, and we are a mere $2200 poorer. It seems like a lot of money now, but it will be well worth the 10 months in France and Europe. Anyway, I'm excited because now I can start solidifying my plans because I know the exact date and time of my arrival at Charles de Gaulle airport. Woot. Also, I connected with a fellow Miami student who will be studying at Le Havre with me, so we are working out travel arrangements which means I have a traveling buddy! This is important in terms of travel efficiency - finding your way around in an unfamiliar place is always easier with a second set of eyes - but also personal security, because prior to this hook-up I will most literally be unable to go to the bathroom because my luggage would be unattended (unless of course I can shove all of it into the bathroom stall with me). Anyway, things are panning out for my study abroad trip, but I'll keep you closer as my departure nears.... AUGUST 30th!!!