Arriving in Style

After moving from Chicago to Michigan, time went by fast and it was Saturday August 29th before I knew it! The 2 weeks in Michigan were well spent. I think the entire family was wore out from "family time and events". I was happy to leave feeling satisfied with preparation and giving the proper goodbyes. Typically, I am maniac when I leave. This time, I had a sense of peace instilled within me. I was ready to take on my dream that I dreamt since I was 17.

My parents took me to the airport Saturday afternoon. If it were up to me, we would have left later, but it seemed they were more stressed than I - I may have become Dutch before I left. I bought my plane ticket with miles I have saved up for years. I would be stopping in Frankfurt, Germany and then onto Amsterdam. I was only allowed to bring 1 bag, with the second costing $50 and the third costing $200. 2 would suffice and in all reality, it is liberating to start new.

At the ticket counter, I learned that the Frankfurt plane was overbooked and if it is "ok" with me, I would fly direct to Amsterdam. I was eager to accept the great offer, but my experienced father chimes in saying,"I guess this is ok, but due to the inconvenience, lets put her on first class". It worked and before I knew it, I was on first class, leaving 1.5 hours earlier (no wait time in the airport) and no charge for the baggage (I could have brought unlimited baggage). This was just another confirmation, that now is my time to follow my dream.

I was greeted on the flight with champagne. I learned I would be having a 4 course meal. For once, I actually enjoyed the airplane meal. I needed lessons from the experienced first class rider beside me to work the fancy seat, etc.... She was 12! I was able to recline to a horizontal position - simply fabulous. For the first 3 hours, I could not wipe the smirk off of my face. As I lounged in my seat sipping on French wine, I read an interesting article speaking about the Dutch culture. In a tiny country in space, 16 million people live. The Dutch take much care of what space they do have and in turn, this inspires many to re-invent anything from buildings and streets to art. At that moment, I felt I would fit in quite well with the Dutch; I am re-inventing myself.