The last week has been a whirlwind of exhaustion, potato-based bliss, new slang, and the shocks of my life. Here’s what I’ve learned:

The moment I announced I was going to study abroad in Spain to my parents, I could see it in their eyes that they were already planning a trip to visit. Thankfully, knowing my family was coming soon made homesickness less prevelant during the weeks before their arrival. When my family finally came, I was more than excited to see them. We spent time in Madrid together and visited the Prado for the first time. The next morning, we took a train to Barcelona, where we visited the Sagrada Familia and Parque Guell.

Life is about to get weird.

In just a few hours I will find myself in a situation never experienced before; Alone, on an airplane which will take me to a country where I will also be hopelessly and frantically alone. And then for the next 4 months? Yea, also alone.

Okay, maybe not quite as there is hope for future friendships, but this newfound independence may at first make me feel as though it’s simply me against the world.

Bonjour and enchanté!

Last weekend I was in my local movie theater sitting next to my sister. On screen, an Irish woman was dramatically looking out across a weathered landscape, her lovely accent narrating the scene.

I leaned over excitedly to my sister, whispering, “She’s Irish!” and nudging her. She nodded and laughed.

Even though I am just days away from departure, I still can’t believe this is actually happening.  I’m spending a semester in Siena, Italy!  I’m going to be living in an apartment right down the street from Piazza del Campo, home of the historic Palio horse races.  It just doesn’t feel real.  But every time I look at my Italian Visa stamped in my passport, I remind myself that I really am taking this journey.

After 11 hours on a plane, surprisingly decent airplane food, and a 45 minute wait at the UK border I'm finally here in London! I've met some awesome people so far and saw some pretty cool sights. I've definitely fallen in love with London already and can't wait to spend the next few months learning about the culture and city. Here's a glimpse at some of the cool things I've seen so far!

My friends and I were fortunate enough to visit Paris before the recent attacks, and after the attacks occurred I was not sure whether I would make a post about the visit. But I am making one now, as a way of expressing the deep love I have for the city.