Hi everyone.

Basically, it all started one summer while I was riding the bus. The semester was coming to an end, and there wasn't much to do. I didn't have any plans—well, I had plans, but they just stayed plans. I sat there thinking, well, if this summer is going to be boring, I need to make sure next summer is definitely better. And then an idea hit me—damn! Why not go to America next summer? Why am I sitting here stressing when there's such a great opportunity? I immediately remembered those girls who handed out flyers every September about going to America. It didn't seem funny to me anymore.

At first, I didn't want to tell anyone. Let them be surprised later. And yet... I couldn't help it. I told a couple of my friends, but realized it was pointless and I'd have to go alone anyway. Later, once I had my mind set on it, I told my boyfriend. He got so excited... I was actually a bit upset. I had already planned everything. But it's going to be cool. He wanted to go alone. That is, by invitation.

Slowly, so no one would "catch on," I started finding out all the information I could. From one friend, I learned roughly how much it costs. I wanted to wait until September to ask my classmate which agency she used, how much it was, and what it was like, when suddenly I remembered that my brother's girlfriend, Vera, said her friend went and loved everything.

Yes, one more thing. The most important thing I started with was saving money. I decided from the very beginning that I wouldn't ask my parents for a single cent. They have enough loans as it is, and besides, it's beneath my dignity. I set a goal to earn it. AND I WILL EARN IT!!! Luckily, I have a job, in English. It's not fancy, of course. Not exactly what I wanted, but it's the way I can fulfill my dream, and I think about it every single time.

So, I got in touch with Vera's friend. It turns out she's from Moscow. She told me everything, even gave me some job contacts, contacts for the center, and answered my questions. In short, she helped a lot. A big thank you to her. If anyone goes there, I'll definitely help however I can.

I went to the center. It took a while, maybe 15-20 minutes. But then they talked to me very nicely and explained everything. My program will include tickets, and since I came in September, it's the cheapest one! Hooray!!!

By the way, after my boyfriend and I went to the center, we talked a few days later. And he said he would go with me on the program!!! HOORAY!!!

I'm going to sign up tomorrow or the day after. I don't know exactly when yet. I feel so much joy and excitement about everything coming up!

By the way, I decided I'll travel later using Couchsurfing. I went to a lecture about it this summer, and today I got hooked on a blog where a girl was describing its pros. SUPER!

I've thought of everything. I'll go sign up in the next 2 days. The main thing now is to sign the contract—that is, first pass the interview (we even practiced a little) and earn the rest of the necessary amount. I've studied the brochure and a couple of blogs from cover to cover.

Another plus is that I won't have to spend my summer birthday here. And no one will be offended by that. This year it didn't turn out very well. I'm already thinking about how I'll take my exams early and what dresses I'll take on the trip!

By the way, I haven't told my parents anything yet. I think I'll tell them once I find a job and get my J-1 Visa. Knock on wood. I'm hiding the brochures carefully.

22:42 15.09.2010