Why This Trip is Different.

Leaving is a funny experience. In the last couple days, I've been balancing a fine line between the present and the future; spending time alone with my family, catching back up with old friends, and really falling back in love with the place I grew up. But at the same time, here I am putting all my earthly possessions into a suitcase, and mentally preparing myself to let go of my language. My creature comforts. Everything about home that I've finally gotten used to again.

The "change" and "reality" vibes seem to be buzzing through everyone these days - those of us approaching the end of college, and realizing that after June 11th our lives become one big question mark of uncertainty. Like my childhood home this summer, in the last three years my college home has become that comfortable spot for me - a place that I've gotten used to, where bicycling, sweatpants, and organic vegetables are all standard routine. Now, I'm sitting here reading Lonely Planet and Budget Guide to Spain, and am seeing cobblestone streets, giant three course meals (with indistinguishable ingredients) and hints of a fast approaching lifestyle that is nothing like my usual routine.

And that is why this trip is going to be different for me. Different than anything I've ever experienced. This isn't just a trip - for the first time ever I'll be living in another place, with people who I've never met, in a country whose customs and traditions I barely know. For the first time, I'm jumping headfirst into the uncertain - and to be honest, I think that's exactly what I need.

There's a whole world out there to see, and I'm starting to get excited. ...Really excited. :)