Part 1: Getting Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

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Remember when you were little and couldn’t do anything by yourself because you simply couldn’t comprehend basic concepts? That’s kind of what living in a different country feels like, except it doesn’t come with a mom. Kind of rude, right? However, my besties, google maps and google translate, have been by my side every step of the way, and I now have a greater appreciation for the internet and my phone. (Shout out to the older generation. I literally don’t know how you made it.)

I can’t read any street signs, or understand background conversations in public settings, or go into McDonalds and get a free water cup, or read certain menus at restaurants. I have no idea how to use the tram, or how to buy a ticket for it, or even how to use the ticket. I get anxiety at the grocery store when my total comes out to “235,00”, when I’m actually only spending $9.79. The culture shock is real, people!! I am UNCOMFORTABLE.

And I’m loving it.

Today was my first free day to go explore Prague, and I am in absolute awe of this city. Grace (who I traveled here with), her two roommates, Mary (from Italy) and Sarah (from France), and I found our way to Old Town Square and the Charles Bridge, both of which are nothing short of breathtaking. The architecture in this place is INCREDIBLE. There are honestly no words. We also ran into some giant, fluffy dancing animals. Why do I live in Kansas when there are dancing PANDAS in Prague, you ask? I don’t know. We walked by countless shops and food stops. There was one restaurant called “Meet Hamburger”. We didn’t go in, but I imagine he was very nice. It was a cloudless, high 70’s kind of day, and I cannot believe this is my home for the next four months.

This whole process is a rollercoaster of emotions, and I’m so freaking grateful and humbled by every obstacle I’ve faced so far. Learning how to navigate in a sea of the unknown might not sound appealing to some, but I find it to be a breath of fresh air. A scary breath of fresh air, but nonetheless, a much needed one. To think this is only my second day, and I’m about to make some of my favorite or least favorite memories of my life!! I’m feeling all the feelings and doing my best to take it ALL in.

First adventure [Czech] 😉

Stay tuned 😊