By way of cliché beginnings, today is the day. Today is the day that I embark on what I hope will be the most incredible journey of my lifetime, at least thus far. Today is the day that culminates what I have been seeking from this blog ever since I started it- wide open spaces. I’ve been seeking, no, craving this adventure. I truly feel like the world is at my feet and I can’t wait to embrace and indulge myself in not only the beauty, the culture, and the history, but also dare myself to embrace this discomfort and fear. Because I suppose another cliché is fitting here: life’s best adventures come at the edge of discomfort.

Naturally, I am writig this in the abundance of excess time I find myself with as I arrived to the airport 3 hours early (as per airline recommendations—thanks a lot Delta.) But it’s giving me time to write down the thoughts I have been hoping to share for a while and also share some pretty comical anecdotes over my trip preparation. So, here we go:

I wouldn’t call packing my forte.

My typical method of packing fits almost perfectly along the “shove and go” mentality, and this system always seems to work for me. This methodology is not exactly conducive to organizational success, but it does the job. This time was different. Packing for 4 months is quite a feat- and the amount of checklists, packing cubes, and shopping bags I have accumulated over the past few weeks is unbelievable. Nonetheless my two suitcases were (just barely) under 50 pounds.

Leaving is bittersweet for me. My parents are not only my biggest supporters, they are truly my best friends. I always joke that I was best friends with them before it was “cool.” Saying goodbye was hard for me, especially as I was able to make so many fun memories with them this past summer.

Mom and Dad~ Thank you for the unbelievable amount of help you have given me in preparing for this journey. You are the kindest, most selfless human beings on this planet. I will forever cherish the hilarious moments we endured while getting ready (i.e. packing mishaps, broken suitcases, rude customers in Marshalls,

last minute buys) I will always remember smiling and laughing with you until I couldn’t breathe. I can’t wait until I get to show you around my new home.

Home, it’s been great. You will always have my heart. And hopefully I can appreciate you a little more when I come home. See you soon America!

Arrivederci and sorridi sempre!!

Jenna