ONE WEEK-dignified version

    In one week, I will be on The Plane.  Stuffed under the seat in front of me will be my carry-on backpack full of supplies I have yet to pack, my new blue suitcase will be nestled into the cargo unit of The Plane and I will be anxiously awaiting my arrival to Europe, my home for the next four months.
    The paperwork is done and I am mentally prepared for a long anticipated journey, but it still doesn't seem real.  The Plane is my connection to a new land, a new life.  Once I am buckled in, my new world will open up to swallow me.  It will be the moment where this fairy tale I have envisioned for months comes to life.