A Travel Journal Entry From My 22 Year Old Self - 1st Study Abroad Experience

I have always loved collecting mementos that remind me of my experiences in life. Something that I started to do when I traveled, was keep a journal of my experiences, and to put some of those mementos in it. Receipts, tickets, chip bags, gelato spoons, and anything that I can fit in that sucker...gets put right inside.

My very first travel journal was created in 2000, during my first trip to Europe during high school. Unfortunately I lost that journal on that trip (I blame my reckless 15 year old self), but started another one when I studied abroad my junior year of college. 

I recently started reading through it, and thought I would share the entries that I wrote before I embarked on my adventure. 

One of my many travel journals - filled to the brim.

My oldest travel journal - 2006.

Thursday January 26th, 2006
               I cannot believe that I am actually packing. It's surreal, its bittersweet, and its just fucking nuts. So many thoughts are circulating through my head, so many emotions can be felt. The one thing that I've always wanted has to happen right before I leave. This is the story of my life. "All dressed up and nowhere to go". Honestly though, I do have a wonderful life. I love my family, I love my friends, and I know that I am very blessed. Everything happens for a reason, that's what I believe. I just hate being confused, and hate being in the dark. I can't believe that I am actually leaving. I've wanted this for so long. When I first found the program I was almost in tears. I couldn't breathe. I wanted to explode. I want everything there to be wonderful. I'm excited, but sad to leave everything behind. I guess that's normal. Who would have thought that the boy from my class would have been the nicest boy I have ever met? I think I will miss him the most. 

Saturday January 28th, 2006
                 Today is the day that my lifelong dream came true. I am actually on a plane to Rome at the moment. The realization that I am going to study abroad makes me realize that I can do anything I set my mind to. Last night was sad. You can almost say it was bittersweet. The day started off with my cousins funeral, who was killed in a drunk driving accident. I didn't know him well, but the funeral was extremely sad. After the funeral I had to finish running errands and I couldn't make it to the reception. After errands I went back home, and my grandma came over for dinner and to stay the night so she could come to the airport in the morning. Packing was still not home when Jason* arrived at my house, and I was so happy that he came. He brought me a dozen pink roses with red brims. They were so gorgeous, and he also brought me the new John Mayer CD and a card. I think that he is the kindest, most awesome person that I have ever met. Although it was hard for me to let him go last night, I knew it was the right decision. Studying abroad was --> IS my dream. I had to do it no matter what. I just hope that he is there when I get back. And if he is, it is for a reason. 
                     Saying goodbye last night was sad, but I knew I'd be back. This was something I have to do. Now I'm on the plane to Rome. It feels like a small village of Italy on here. It almost gave me a panic attack LOL. The flight from Canada to San Fran was ok. I think there is a little less than 6 hours to Rome. I hate the fact that it will be 11am when we get there. Jason says he knows where we stand since we didn't have "the talk". I am curious to know what he thinks, especially since nothing has happened to influence his opinion. 

*names have been changed

---

I hope you enjoyed. Do any of you write when you travel?