London

12/28/2009
I just wrote this whole thing in the O’Hare airport without saving – so, of course, it froze and erased.
Something I’ve never had to truly do before: say goodbye. I’ve never felt as unsure about myself as my parents and Anne pulled out of the Yockers’ driveway. There’s been a knot in my throat for the last 24 hours or so as I pack, say my goodbyes, and travel to O’Hare.
The travels went smoothly. Left Shoreview at 7:00 and made it to Stevens Point by 11:00. I rode with Janet’s family to the Chicago airport; we left at 11:45 and arrived by 3:45. By 4:15 we were through security, with about four hours to kill before our 8:25 flight. We decided to have our last ice cream cone and burger, but then realized that O’Hare doesn’t have any restaurants behind security… so we had homemade sandwiches (with hummus ;) ), granola bars and water. Yum. Although Mom/Dad it sounds like you would have enjoyed one of those sandwiches ;)
As the flight approaches I pray for a safe journey and a successful meet-up with Zach, Peter and Nels. I continually pray for two primary things: peace and strength. Strength to be uncomfortable and get to know Seville and its people, peace to sleep at night, be okay with my distance from friends and family, and with the FACT that God has a plan for me and a plan for my host family.
It’s now 5:56 and I’ve written this entry twice. Although I hope to sleep on board, I am going to try and nap now. As I nap, Janet will be watching my stuff (and a movie). Hopefully I will be able to Skype (or at least call) home tomorrow. London here we come!!


12/29/09
Wow, what a day. The flight went extremely well – British Airways service was great. I was all-around pleased. Janet and I walked to baggage and picked up our luggage without ever stopping to wait – it was crazy. Craig (Janet’s cousin) picked us up at the airport and drove us to Zach’s apartment to drop off our stuff. We were quite exhausted after the flight, and probably slept about 3 hours apiece. It was great to see those guys (Peter, Zach and Nels) and we’re currently watching The Office over hot chocolate with a view of the London Eye out Zach’s window.
London rained all day and is forecasting rain for the remained of my stay . Janet, Craig and I walked to Tate Modern for about 30 minutes each way which was very wet and increasingly cold. Craig was in a bit of a rush back to work at 5:00, so he dropped us off right by what he thought was Zach’s apartment. Without a phone or phone, we spent about 35 minutes lost in London. Without seeking any help, we found our way – it was a good feeling. We’re going to get to bed really early tonight. Also – the security guard in the apartment is curious about the high number of visits Zach has been getting… hope that doesn’t turn into an issue. We’ll be headed on an overnight to Bath, England tomorrow morning, returning at about 6:00 PM on the 31st.

Aust