So I am finally settled into Bognor Regis, United Kingdom. But it has been a journey within itself.

First, my mother and I had to drive to Philadelphia, PA, USA, for me to catch my flight to London, UK. We left Sunday morning and made it to Philadelphia by mid-afternoon. I’m pretty sure that was the longest car ride I’ve ever been on just because the anticipation was killing me. I was excited, nervous, scared, and calm all at the same time. It was an interesting sensation, to say the least.

Once my mother and I got to Philly, we checked in my luggage and had something to eat at the airport. I’m surprised I was able to eat due to my nerves running throughout my body. So we ate and got last minute things together. Then, finally, my mom had to leave me to go back to Pittsburgh. I was upset when she first left, but then, I felt confident that I could complete this journey successfully, and by myself, I might add.

So I am left in the Philadelphia International Airport with five hours to kill. I sat and read for most of it. I also people watched. It was fascinating to see the different kinds of people that were traveling out of the States.

Once I made my way through security and to my Gate, everything was smooth sailing. I found my seat on the plane, got situated, and waited for takeoff. I was still rather calm throughout this experience. I was actually surprised at myself because I thought I was going to be a basket case! The flight took off, and we made our way to Heathrow Airport. Once we arrived at the airport, I made my way through Customs and then to the baggage reclaim. I found my taxi driver waiting for me, and we made our way to Bognor Regis.

I arrived at the University of Chichester, and everyone welcomed me with open arms. I found comfort in that. Then, we made our way throughout the school to see where I would have classes and whatnot. Then, the girls and I explored the town. I bought a mobile phone and some post cards. We then decided that we would try to go to London, England for the weekend since lessons do not begin until Tuesday. I’m really looking forward to it!

After we explored the town, we made our way back to the school where I met my host family. They took me back to their house and we had dinner. We ate the famous fish and chips. After dinner, we hopped into their hot tub and relaxed. It felt wonderful to be able to just sit and relax after the last two days. After we hung out for a while, I made my way to my bedroom and began unpacking.

I was surprised at how well I slept the first night here. I guess I was just so tired from my journey that it knocked me out. And I was grateful for that because I needed my rest. I still have a few days in this first week, but I will not be near a computer since the girls and I are going to London.

Cheers!

Location: Bognor Regis, England, UK