It took 16 1/2 years but I've made it!

My times at the airport brought some, but very few, troubles. I made it through check-in and security in record time and sat myself down at the gate my ticket told me I was flying from and began to make some calls to pass the 2 hours I had to kill. Unfortunately good and meaningful conversation distracted me and I guess I missed the announcement that the gate was changed. Eventually, after my parents brought me back to reality and I found the proper gate and waited for the rest of the time. The plane, of course, was about a hour late because the plane was delayed coming in from LA and then needed cleaning. Eventually we made it onto the plan a landed safely in England!

When I first arrived I just couldn't believe it. I couldn't believe that I had done it and had arrived in England. It was very overwhelming and I was full of anxiety. The thought of being so far away from family and friends was alot to handle but it was exciting to be driven through London on my way to the hotel in Maidstone and realize that this was not a short-term thing, I am staying for the long-term. I got to the hotel finally and got up to my room where I opened up my suitcases to see how my belongings did on the trip. As I did that I began to feel almost lonely and didn't know where to begin my stay in Maidstone, Kent. After checking out the internet I decided to be bold and ask for directions to the Towne Centre. If you know me at all you know that I am terrible with directions and trying to find my way around an unfamiliar city on my own was a big thing. I did it though as I knew that sitting in the room all day would not be good for me. Walking through the shops and exchanging my money and picking up a few things made me feel very independent and good!

My first day back in England has been great! I feel like I'm taking the next step in life and branching out more than I ever have before. Although I am a very independent person I definitely have had to learn how to put myself out there more and not keep to myself too much. Anyway, stay tuned for continued news for my UK adventures!!!