31 Days of Traveling to Europe: Day 8

31 Days of Traveling to Europe: Day 8 - On Our Way

Departure day was finally here! The day started with a mix of worry and excitement and once we got to Houston for our connecting flight, we found out that the worry was for good reason. After boarding the plane, a new type of aircraft called the Dreamliner, and reviewing everything available on the small screens in front of our seats, we started to back away from the gate only to hear from the pilot that there was a warning light that would not go out. After awhile longer, the pilot made another announcement, telling us that repairs were taking longer than he liked and that they would be allowing us to de-board the plane.

Worry turned to panic as all the scenarios of what the delay would mean for our trip played through our minds. Would we make it to London in time for our day tour the next day? Would our luggage make it? Luckily by the time we got to the end of the jet bridge, we were informed that another plane, just like the one we had been on, was available for us. No need for re-ticketing, no need for new seats. Three hours after we were supposed to leave, we were on our way.

This was the longest flight I'd ever taken. As corny as it sounds, it was exhilarating to be on such a luxurious plane with my own personal movie screen and an assortment of movies. This made it real - I was going to Europe! I was so excited about all the things I was going to see that I barely slept. I couldn't wait for my first glimpse of London. It was all a dream come true!

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