New Year, New.... ?

I've never been one to set new year's resolutions... and this year is no different... some look at a new year as a new beginning when really, each day can be a new beginning- why do we need the turn of new year to make a big change? Why not challenge ourselves to change and be the best we can each and every day?

I am always going to watch cheesy tv, laugh at random things, make it to the gym when I can (and not beat myself up when I cannot), travel whenever/wherever I can, try new recipes, have goals for my personal and professional life, strive to be the best me I can be...no matter the time of year.

Happy New Year y'all :)

Airport. Waiting.

This is probably the scariest trip to the airport I've ever made. My dad and boyfriend just dropped me off at Charlotte-Douglas and now I am here for the next two hours waiting to board the plane and take off. A big part of why I wanted to study abroad is because I felt like I've never done anything alone- and this experience is definitely me doing something alone and that is sinking in as I sit here in the airport.

So, to pass the time, I am going to share my ever growing knowledge of Denmark to the blogging world. I really didn't know much about Denmark before I decided to study there- I honestly chose the Danish Institute of Study Abroad based on the academic program- it had nothing to do with location. But, the more I learn about Copenhagen and Denmark, the more excited I am for this trip.

Here are some random tidbits I've learned from my DIS Student Handbook:

• Denmark is a Constitutional Monarchy.
• Denmark has one of the world's most extensive networks of alternative energy sources.
• The government operates by the "Social Welfare Model" which allows all citizens to have access to social benefits (such as healthcare, home care, unemployment). This is possible because of the combination of high economic growth and relatively equal income distribution.
• Danes love bikes- it is estimated that each Dane rides about 3KM each day by bicycle. (And I will be a part of this statistic- I will be riding 1.5 miles each day between the train station take the train into Copenhagen) and my host family's house each day.
• It will be really cold in January and February- think: cold blast the east coast has had for the past month.
• Danish Hygge: roughly translated, it means "cozy and snug" This is a concept that my handbook says implies shutting out the turmoil and troubles of the outside world and striving instead for a warm and intimate mood. I'm excited to experience this way of life!
• Denmark is 6 hours ahead of EST.

Okay, the random facts about Denmark have helped ease my nerves. Now I just need to get on the plane and get going!