Best Birthday Ever!

I would say a trip to Poland is an okay thing to do on my birthday...

Here were the flights that eventually got us here to the land of Polska:

Nashville to Chicago: Feb 15, 2010_2:14 PM--Feb 15, 2010_3:56 PM
Chicago to Munich: Feb 15, 2010_8:55 PM--Feb 16, 2010_5:30 AM
Munich to Krakow: Feb 16, 2010_8:00 AM--Feb 16, 2010_9:25 AM
*all in Central Time

At O'Hare, we all had one last "american meal" at Chili's to pass the time during the layover. I went with the cheeseburger, fries, and...a Sam Adams. The international flight on Lufthansa Airlines was very nice, and I actually managed to get about four hours of shut eye. Upon arrival at the beautiful Munich airport, we had to go through security again and this time a....passport check! We were picked up from the airport in Krakow at 4:25 PM(which was 9:25 AM CST) and taken to our dorms. Needless to say, we were all EXHAUSTED after all that flying. Jet lag seemed more like jet dead.

So, we've all been here for five days now, but it has felt like it's been weeks. I am sure time will fly once classes begin, but it's been tough to get adjusted to everyday life in Krakow. Obviously, things such as the language barrier will take time to get used to, however, I have LOVED the time here so far. I actually find it enjoyable to be "lost" and "try new things." It seems like back home, we get on such a routine that we forget some of the other things in life. Where else can I have 30 minutes to myself on a bus ride to just...think? That reminds me, I am a huge fan of public transit...we take trams and buses everywhere here in Krakow, and it has become very convenient.

Quick Story
The first day of orientation, we had no idea where to go. Essentially, we hopped on a bus and surprisingly came to the architecture building...but it was the wrong one. After finally finding someone that spoke English, we were pointed to the right direction and took a tram to arrive...um...about 20 minutes late. Not too bad.

Favorite Quotes
"I forgot my loofa!!"-Justin at O'Hare Airport. He was serious.

"My neck pillow is inflatable, man!"-Me
"Yea, just like your girlfriend..."-Stephen

"Wobins and Burds"-Jonathan trying to say 'Robins and Birds' in an accent to woo a Polish student.