Failing to Plan Is Planning to Fail

It's official! I will be learning the ways of the European lifestyle December 16-January 4. My exact route plans are undecided at this time, other than the decision that Rome will be my hub.

In my purpose statement, that I am sure you all have read by this point, I mentioned that one of the key reasons for my desire to go to Europe was to connect with old friends. As I focus on planning my trip, I am trying to keep in mind that I want to be able to reconnect with as many people as possible, so I am

"Failing to plan is planning to fail." - Proverb

Recently my sister and I took a road trip to Arkansas to visit our families and re-learn the importance of "down time". This concept is still a little foreign to me, but I am working steadily to train myself to "be present," meaning remembering to appreciate the here-and-now for the good, the bad and the ugly.

After spending a few days with my grandparents and listening to them "reminisce" about the good ol' days, I realized that I want to make sure that I remember all of the days - especially when traveling. Since my brain is over stimulated when trying to take in so many unique and diverse experiences, I always keep a travel journal. They aren't always grammatically or politically correct, but you are more than welcome to enjoy some entertaining reading whenever you would like - I will gladly share them with you.

Yes, it is true, I love (and I mean LOVE) organizational tools! My family calls me nerdy, my friends call me Mama Molly– what every your fancy is I frankly don’t care; in my eyes I would rather be over-prepared than overwhelmed with unwelcomed surprises. I thoroughly enjoy being spontaneous – it is the spice of life! Just because I have a plan doesn’t mean I follow it to a “T".

In my mind the “planning” process is more of a way to facilitate learning about the history, culture and political climate of the region you are going to visit. By digging through travel books, websites, etc. you are continually gaining knowledge of your future destination and will have a much higher level of appreciation for the region when you arrive.