Starting off

I leave tomorrow and it's hard to believe.  It's been a while since I've traveled and I'd almost forgotten the conflicting emotions before beginning a trip like this.  The intense excitement wars with the anxiousness that accompanies the beginning of anything new and uncertain.  I've been gathering things for the trip for days and perpetually running through a mental checklist of what I need, what I might need, what I would miss most, what would just be unnecessary weight, and all the other considerations.  Oddly enough, one of my most troublesome questions was what books to bring.  I've always been a big reader, and it is particularly comforting in times of stress (like this last semester, amiright?).  However, being gone for six weeks, and flying with baggage restrictions, books could easily become a weighty nuisance.  I had to sift through my reading list and pick what I think would keep me occupied while still not filling my luggage with no room for anything else.  A friend also made the wise recommendation to bring something I find exceptionally reassuring and home-like, so when the inevitable culture-shock hits, I'll have something to turn to.  This seemed a lot to consider, but I think I finally found a compromise.  I settled on bringing Anna Karenina, which I've never read and have heard is excellent, to keep me busy (since it's one of those books you could likely use as a weapon if need dictated), and several of C. S. Lewis's works, since I've always found Lewis's writing comforting even when it can be challenging.  I suppose we'll find out if that's enough starting tomorrow!  Germany, here we come!