Packing, Flying, Traveling - Oh My!

Of course, British Airways (the people we so happen to be flying with) decide they want to go on strike the Tuesday before we leave, putting anxiety levels through the roof. I just found out that instead of being at the airport at 6:00 pm we have to be at the airport at 5:15 am and spend a night in London. There is also a high chance of our luggage being lost so we should pack four extra outfits in our carry-ons. This makes me even more anxious because all I have been doing is shopping for the perfect clothes to wear there, but I won't know what to really wear until I'm there.  I'm just going to have to wing it and hope I don't stand out too much the first couple days without my luggage. I may be rambling and it may sound silly, but to someone who loves clothes as much as I do and doesn't want to look like a "trashy American" to my two Italian roommates on first impression, it's kind of a big deal. On a better note, I checked the weather for Brescia and it's suppose to be really nice after the first couple days; up to 76! Sundresses, sandals, and Italy here I come!
~Marley


I have anticipated the study abroad trip to Brescia, Italy since I first learned of it in September.  Since then, I have done everything to prepare for it.  Now I am down to the last week before I depart for Italy, and needless to say, my preparations have become REALLY hectic!  From packing clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronic supplies and school supplies, my days are busy!  Despite that, it all the more fuels my anticipation as I countdown the days to the big day.  I am a little sad that I am leaving my home in America, and will be gone for quite a while, but I am going to embrace this opportunity as it comes.  I look forward to having the experience of living in Italy.  I have desired to visit Italy for many years, especially since my ancestors from my mother's side came from Calabria, Italy.  I am thrilled at the thought of returning to the land they left behind.  I am also looking forward to learning and experiencing Italian culture, history, and language.  In addition, I look forward to making new friends and memories.  With courses and weekend trips, I know that in Brescia there will never be a dull moment.  I look forward to you soon Italy!  Arividerci! 
~Gabrielle

It's the night before we're about to leave and I am so anxious that I am not going to be able to sleep! I figure I will have plenty of time to do that on our flight and it's going to be a killer waking up at 3:30 in the morning anyway. It is not often that I travel so I am a little nervous about flying however I know that once I get settled in the time is going to fly by. I have been looking forward to leaving for such a long time and have bragged to just about everyone I know that I will be in Italy for a month yet it just hit me two days ago. I wish that I could bring all my friends and family with me in my suitcase. It would also be nice if I could bring the NHL playoffs with me. If this is the year my flyguys win the cup (or even just make it to the final) I am going to be bummed not to be in the country. However, I am going to miss the chance of a lifetime for an even greater chance of a lifetime. Can't wait to land in Milan!
~Kristin