When I first started this blog back in September, I had slightly less than 200 days until the big trip. Now, as I stare at my calendar, I realize that I am only 10 days away to my once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Emerald Isle.
In terms of preparation, I have only stuffed a few pairs of jeans and a sweater into my suitcase because each time I try to get everything organized I tell myself that I can't pack what I am still using (i.e. toothbrush, hairbrush, etc.). This 10 day mark, though, has me motivated to get it all finished so I'm not scrambling around the house the day before the plane leaves US soil.
I'm also trying to get all my housekeeping done as well such as taxes, graduation information, reapplying for my summer job, and just recently my dad became the manager of my 7-year-old sister's softball team so guess who is coaching? Also, my parents are determined to learn how to use Skype since neither of them are computer-oriented and my dad wants to be able to talk to me every single day, a fact I'm not too happy about. I understand and appreciate his concern, but how can I enjoy the Irish lifestyle when once a day I have to call in to inform him that I'm still alive? Yikes, so much to do...so little time...
I have mostly exhibited excitement for my upcoming travels, but a few days ago I experienced my first "holy crap" moment. I woke up on the weekend and the sensation of knowing that I wasn't going to be in the country let alone in my house struck me pretty deep. Before college, I tended to lean away from social activities and preferred the quiet comfort of reading at home, so whenever I was asked to go somewhere with friends, I confess that I sometimes sought out excuses to avoid going, a trait I am pretty ashamed of. Looking back, I see how I have missed out on so many fun childhood opportunities simply because I was unsure of what would happen or afraid that I wouldn't have any fun. This same feeling creeped into me that weekend morning, but I successfully squashed it down. In 10 days, I will be leaving from the airport with 5 other amazing girls where I will experience my first plane ride, sleep in the London airport overnight, and step down on the gorgeous green Irish grass complete with spring daffodils.
My goal throughout college has not centered around receiving high grades in my courses. Instead, I've vowed to put myself out in the world and try new things. I can now say that the past 4 years of my academic career have led me to the best moments of my life, and I have met the most incredible, smart, funny, and reliable people that I am honored to call my friends. Also to note, my best friend is the cause of my newfound thirst for exploration because without her outlook on life, I may not have ever made it to this point.
Only 10 days left. 10 freaking days.
P.S. I've been studying up on both Irish accents and Irish slang terms via YouTube. I hope I manage to establish a decent accent while I'm there so they don't just think of me as a weirdo American blonde!
P.P.S. Final deadline for submitting suggestions for me to complete while I'm away! The drinking one is already covered...
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