I have arrived!

After about fifteen long hours of travel and a five hour time change, I made it to Iceland!  I landed around 7:20 AM with not a hint of daylight, though about 30 degrees warmer than where I came from.  Once I collected my luggage, I found the Flybus (one of the major tourist buses) where I met a girl from Canada with whom I will be living!  Sierra and I were greeted at the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik by a wonderful woman named Cindy Jessup, an American missionary here in Iceland.  Cindy graciously dropped us off at the Gest-Inn Guesthouse where we will be living for the semester.  The Guesthouse is perfect for a five month stay in Iceland: seven single rooms, two apartment style living areas, a small yet well equipped kitchen, an eating area, and a basement for laundry.  I arrived at the Guesthouse around nine in the morning wanting so badly to fall into bed, yet knowing I should try to stay awake as long as possible. With that in mind, I went exploring with some of the girls at the house.  Within five minutes of walking we found a breathtaking view of mountains across the water.

Here Sierra (white coat) and Katharina are taking pictures while Janina smiles for the camera :)

As we continued to walk, we found a magnificent music hall where the Icelandic symphony plays.  These two were enjoying the majestic view.  

From the other side of the building we saw the harbor...

Our landmark on our way home (besides "always walk up the hill") is the monumental Hallgrimskirkja Church, the largest in Iceland.  

After our day of exploring I am ready to cuddle up in my new bed, in my cozy room :) Tomorrow the goal is to find the University of Iceland!

Cheers!