Across the Atlantic

2012 began with a great adventure to the Pacific Ocean, and it shall end with another great adventure to the other side of the world. My backpack is full, the hostels are booked, and I have been advised where to find the best gelato. In three days, my best friend and I have a flight to catch, one that will take us east across the Atlantic Ocean on a two week trip to Europe.

Taylor and I first dreamed this trip up seven years ago as we sat in her room, discussing all the places we wanted to travel to someday. And we've been putting money away ever since, a little bit here, a little bit there. Seven months ago we found cheap plane tickets and after much deliberation ("On three we click yes." "1-2...wait, are we for sure sure we can do this??"), we were committed. Hours upon hours of planning have taken place since then as we mapped a route, checked countless blogs, and made list after list; hopefully by this point we've ironed out all the details.

We land first in Dublin, Ireland, and will proceed to Paris, France, followed by Cinque Terre, Florence, Rome, and Naples in Italy. We then return to Ireland where we'll take a train to Galway for a few days before heading home. Check back often for picture and updates!

Many people have expressed doubts when I tell them I'm carrying only the backpack you see in the upper right hand corner. But all that you see here fit! And with room to spare.