Bye bye Miss.American Pie...

It's eight hours before I have to be at the airport and 10 hours before my flight departs to New York. It still hasn't sunk in that I'm leaving. I haven't thought about the fact that I won't see my family for a good portion of the year, or my bed, or the familiarity of my grandmother's house. Well, I mean I have thought about it, I did just now. But it doesn't hit me in the sentimental way. I guess that is good. Like ignorance being blissful. I bet if I had traveled to Ireland prior to applying to this school I probably would have talked myself out of doing so. Telling myself that I wouldn't like the weather or the distance of the university to the city centre. The thing that has been worrying me the most is getting through security at the airport. I don't want them throwing out my items, losing my luggage or stealing it. I need to think positive thoughts, such as, "Everything will turn out fine. I will have an easy and wonderful trip."

I packed two 60 lb. bags, a duffel carry-on and a "purse." I am checking my two 60 lb. bags all the way through to Dublin with Aer Lingus. They allow up to 70 lbs. for each bag and the first checked bag is free, the second checked bag is $50. Not too bad considering what other airlines charge.

I still have things strewn across my bed and I don't think I'll make it to sleep anytime soon. I'm supposed to be up at 6:30 a.m. because my family wants to take me out to breakfast before I have to arrive at the airport.

I'm going to go put more things in order and fix my hair. My work here is never done.

The Breakdown

Yesterday was a strange day indeed. It resulted in a mini breakdown with all the stress of getting ready for the send off.

I took my laptop to Best Buy to get repaired. It fell off the table a few weeks ago and the case cracked. Luckily the thing still turned on and I was able to continue accessing information and I have accidental damage coverage for the laptop so the repairs won't cost me a thing. But with all the problems I have had with Best Buy (I will never shop there again) I am not optimistic that all will be done with out a headache to ensue.

I went to the bank today and the deposit is on it's way to my apartment. Hopefully I have made a good decision in a place to room. Once I receive confirmation on my rooming assignment I am going to purchase my plane ticket. Hopefully that will be by the end of this week.

Now is the issue with international health insurance. I have found a few decent plans and am ready to purchase. I just want to review them with someone knowledgeable.

On a lighter note, my parents purchased some hard sided Samsonite luggage for my journey! The luggage has a 10 year warranty, 360 degree rotating wheels and a TSA lock! Totally worth the money, especially since it was a Costco deal. Very nice!

I have to find some boots and a warm hat for the venture.

Time to do laundry.