Preparation

It is late Thursday night, about four days until I leave for my trip to New Orleans. While laying in bed thinking about my upcoming adventure, I unwillingly begin to feel nervous. I get that feeling that I always get before I go on a trip without my family. There is a pit in my chest that crawls up into my throat and makes me feel nauseous. I just can't stand the thought of leaving my best friend, the one I share my bed with every night, for eight days! And, yes, I'm talking about my dog.

Nevertheless, I am going on this trip and Sissy will surely survive while I'm away.

I began preparing a list of things I need to bring on Wednesday. But first, since I have never been on a train before, I googled things such as "what to bring on an overnight train trip" and "how to pack for a long train ride". I read some good tips and got a good idea of what I'll need to bring. Some of the general items are a pillow, blanket, headphones, and earplugs. I did learn, however, that there is an accessible bathroom and to have a toothbrush, toothpaste, and wash cloth accesible. This is all good information for a novice train-rider. 

An issue that has been on my mind regarding the train trip is food. The google searches all recommended bringing durable food that does not require refrigerating or microwaving. So, how does a girl bring a good fulfilling lunch that meets those recommendations?! It definitely doesn't help that I may be one of the pickiest eaters there is. Nonetheless, I have come up with some ideas. Some snacks that I will be bringing and need to go buy include unsalted almonds, beef jerky, maybe an apple with Jiff-to-go peanut butter, and definitely bottled water. 

I have yet to give much consideration to the hotel stay due to the fact that my mind is overwhelmed with the thought of a 14 hour train ride. I am the type of person that needs (okay, likes) roughly 9 hours of sleep a night, and when that time is compromised, it's not too pretty; especially if I'm in an uncomfortable, unfamiliar place. So, something I plan on bringing with me for the hotel stay is my small fan. It is perfect for masking any annoying sounds one might here at a hotel, especially snoring! This will definitely make me feel more comfortable. That and a pair of earplugs, as well.

While I am away, it seems my family will need to do some adjusting. Whenever I bring it up to my mom she starts to cry! At one moment, she really doesn't want me to leave, but on the other hand, she wants me to have the best time! Also, my boyfriend Dylan is already complaining about how bored he is going to be when I am gone. He keeps saying things like, "gosh, I'm gonna be so bored. I don't even know what I'm gonna do". Which, does not ease my nerves about going whatsoever! In all honesty, it makes me miss them already and I haven't even left yet. 

Despite my worries and homesickness, I know that in the end, everything is going to be just fine and I will have a blast. I'm sure it is all going to be over in the blink of an eye! Yeah I am missing out on a couple of family Christmas gatherings, but a trip to New Orleans doesn't happen every year. So, I'm gonna suck it up and enjoy myself (hopefully). Now, please excuse me while I go listen to "I'll be Home for Christmas"....