well this is exciting.......

an extra 5 hour delay in chicago, plus an overnight stopover in Warsaw (totally unplanned) and a full day delay getting into Lviv. This isn’t so bad – except this morning I called and cancelled my cell phone – so I am totally disconnected from anyone! Travelling alone sucks.

I suppose I have to be open to adventure that IS the nature of all this, right?!


Can I rant a little bit? This morning when I got to the airport in Toronto, Felix in tow, I spoke to the United airlines counter and asked them to waive the baggage fee on account of the fact that both my suitcases are full of stuff I’m taking to the Internat. The guy was a total jerk and was distracted by kibitzing with the hot blonde at the next counter. He didn’t tell me how much he was charging me for the baggage – worked out to be more than $250!!!!! Yes I know I shouldn’t be overweight and carrying more than one suitcase – but I had good intentions. But the real reason it is making me mad is that I called both United and LOT airline a month ago (the day after I booked my ticket) to ask about reducing/waiving the baggage fee. Both “customer service” reps told me that they didn’t have the power to waive baggage fees, but the people at the check in counter could. I said thanks for your help, and then showed up early to speak with the check in people – the real kicker is that the jerk guy told me that he couldn’t do anything and I should have called the main “customer service line” a month ago… I ALREADY DID THAT AND THEY TOLD ME TO SPEAK TO YOU!! Gawd! Sorry. I am ranting, I’m well aware, but I’m a little high strung.
I was really excited to write a post/update letting you know that I had successfully navigated O’Hare airport here in Chicago (usually any traveler’s nightmare). And although I am in the right place, I have found myself here at the wrong time – just about 5 hours too early (drats).

I think I’m ok, and have accepted the changes to my itinerary. That being said, I must admit that I am a little bit nervous about spending a night alone in Warsaw and perhaps a little anxious that I’ll be there, but will not have time to explore. I am also worried about the people who are travelling from Ternopil to collect me, and the other Canadian travelers. I don’t like the idea that on account of me they will have to make 2 trips (unless of course the other students are also delayed, and therefore, they will only have to make one trip….). I have learned to be flexible, but I have not learned how to comfortably be an inconvenience.

my other huge complaint.... apparently O'Hare is the only airport in the US that charges for wifi. as the main business hub of the united states you'd think that they would be better set up (*cough* less greedy *cough*)

I’m stressed!! (can you tell?!) but I will do my best to make the best of this new situation.

Just so you all know, I’m safe, and will continue to be, and I’ll update you as the next 2 days, or so, plays out…..
*love*