[Yamer]

Well, I thought it worth updating everyone.

I went to my doctor and he prescribed Ativan for my nerves. I didn't get really nervous until bed time the night before, so I had a pretty crappy sleep. I took one of the pills at about 1 the following day, and the flight took off a little after 4:30. It worked for the most part.

The take-off was intense as I didn't expect them to hit the gas like they did. However, once I was up in the air and was able to look out the window at the incredible scenery most of my worries melted away. It was about a 23 minute flight from take-off to landing from Red Deer to Calgary, so it was a fairly brief exposure to the process. Landing was interesting, as it seems everytime those planes start descending they shimmy and dip like crazy. That was a little off-putting, as was when they hit the brakes.

It was dark for the second leg to Medicine Hat, so I didn't have the scenery to comfort me. I just put in my headphones and let the Tragically Hip take me into the Hat.

Coming back yesterday it was light and clear out, and I got some amazing views of the country and Calgary as we flew over and then through the southeast tip of the city. My face was glued to the window, and I took a video I might post and share on YouTube of the city and then landing.

Gold star for me: I didn't take any Ativan for the return flights. And, although I didn't really believe everyone, I have kind of caught the bug in the sense that this experience has completely opened my world. There are so many places I want to visit, and I just got over the biggest personal hurdle. Well, apart from cash and time.

Once again, thank you to everyone who gave me some great advice and encouragement!