Baby’s First Solo Journey

It’s short and serious today guys. But hey, at least the heat rash is gone!!

So, today is Friday, June 21st, and we are currently on the train from Salzburg to Vienna. The original plan for today’s post was supposed to be about the last couple of days that we spent in Salzburg (which was amazing btw), but instead we have a change of plans.

Brittney, my travel companion for the summer, is not going to be able to continue on our European journey, and she made the decision to return to the United States. This means that early this morning I was faced with an equally difficult decision: fly back to the US and then back to Greece for my apprenticeship, or remain in Europe on my own. In case you can’t tell by my go-get-’em attitude and the very title of this blog, I have chosen the latter.

EUROPE AIN’T READY FOR VAL!!!

It’s been a tough day for me y’all. I won’t lie, the thought of traveling through Europe alone is terrifying, especially navigating all the trains I’ll be taking by myself. The amazing news is that the week that I’m in Switzerland, I’m still able to stay with Brittney’s friend Kate, my mom is coming out for a week in Italy, and my sweet friend Rachel is staying with me my final week in Rome. So I’ll only really be solo for part of the trip, but I’ll still be doing all the traveling solo. I had my first mental breakdown this morning, and I’m sure I’ll cry again at some point, but honestly, right now I feel more fucking determined than I ever have in my life.

I’m strong and smart and I’m going to learn so much this summer; about Europe, about traveling, and about myself. I have my shit together and my ducks in a row, and I will be just fine.

Still, I am going to need something from you, my sweet friends, sweet family, and sweet strangers. Please send me your love and support, your good vibes and your prayers and your happy thoughts and your satanic rituals all my way. I welcome them all with open arms, I couldn’t do this without knowing that I have a tribe supporting me. Special thanks to my parents who are backing my decision and reminding me how tough I am.

Since I didn’t get to do my Salzburg post today, I’ll see if I can squeeze one in tomorrow on my train ride to Switzerland. Onward and upward!

Love Always, Val