Anticipation

I've learned through the years to call only two geographical places home. Seattle, Washington and (sometimes regrettably) Claremont, California. Seattle, with its green trees, views of the skyline and perpetual 9 month rain, is the only place I knew from birth to 19. Claremont became my second somewhat permanent residence and thus, took title as a second "home." My connection to relatively few locations on this earth has obviously effected me in both positive and negative ways. While I was able to establish a close connection with the few places I have lived, I now feel major anticipation and even anxious when exploring new territory.

Italy is a rapidly approaching reality. The massive public works of art, thousand year old edifices and a culture older than recorded history is just a breath away. I knew this and I know it now. But to learn culture in a Scripps' European history classroom and to dive headfirst into Parma are two different things. This fact is finally starting to sink in 3 weeks before it becomes a tangible fact.

I pride myself on my ability to adapt and rapidly learn new situations. I thrive on change, but how far will this get me in such a vastly different society? I don't doubt my ability, but am apprehensive towards a world I have only seen in pictures. I feel a nervous tremor when I think about flying on the 1st or play out scenarios, guessing as to what's to come.

I guess this is the first time I can call myself officially excited.