No more security blanket

I am sitting here in the Charlotte airport bored out of my mind, but mostly a little insecure so to take my mind off the situation at hand, you all get to read a new post (not even an hour into my semester).

After fumbling my way through security, (I have never gone through by myself, so didn't know exactly what to do), I made my way down to the gate I will be leaving out of in about an hour. Even though I haven't left my home state, I can feel the insecurity, but mostly strength from this adventure. I am having to rely on myself fully. I am the only one responsible for finding and getting to my gate on time. For checking in correctly. For not misplacing my carry ons. For everything. I don't know anyone around me, although I have made a few jokes and smiled at several people who have helped me, the virgin traveler.
As I said a tearful good-bye to my parents this morning (tears ALL around, almost my brother also), I realized and fully felt the fact that they aren't going to be a phone call away to get advice from. I have to fully rely on myself to make everyday (and semi-big) decisions for these 3.5 months. Somehow, I am glad though. I love my parents, don't get me wrong, but I am an adult now. 10 years down the road when I am married, I can't be asking my mom for advice all the time. I have to learn to trust my own judgment (and at that point my husbands also but thats a different point). So, although I feel very alone right now, I am ok with it. I have to work at anything for anything to be gained.

p.s. Please don't expect posts this often. I am going to be in Italy....