Leavin’ on a Jet Plane

Tomorrow I’m leavin’ on a jet plane to visit my mother. As I was packing and preparing for the flight tomorrow, that old song running through my mind, I was reminded of another flight I took 41 ago…

In early 1967, I was chosen to be an exchange student with the American Field Service (now known as AFS Intercultural Programs). Looking back, I realize that the year I spent in Argentina was a “pivot point” in my life — that point where I stood still, poised to move in one direction or another. A photograph of me, at age 17, was snapped at the moment I hesitated at the top of the stairs while boarding the airplane to Argentina, looked back over my shoulder, and then began the forward motion of my life.

9 thoughts on “Leavin’ on a Jet Plane”

Stephanie July 31, 2008 at 3:25 am

Great story and cool picture. Thanks for sharing with us and have a safe trip!

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Robin July 31, 2008 at 5:23 am

Thanks, Stephanie!

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Nymeth July 31, 2008 at 7:10 am

It’s funny how defining certain moments end up being, isn’t it? And how nice to have one captured in a picture. Have a safe trip, Robin!

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Tara August 1, 2008 at 4:05 am

What a wonderful photograph! You don’t see many outfits like that on planes these days, do you? Have a lovely time.

LikeLike

Reply ↓

tanabata August 2, 2008 at 2:13 am

Have a nice time, and a safe trip!

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Bellezza August 4, 2008 at 4:32 am

I love that song (“Leaving on A Jet Plane”) but better yet is the picture of you. I’m glad you told us it was you, as you resemble Audrey Hepburn up there. It’s fun to reflect how the adventures in our lives create who we are today.

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Robin August 4, 2008 at 6:05 am

Thanks, Nymeth. That certainly was a “defining moment” for me, and I’m so glad my Dad captured it for me.

Thanks, Tara. Isn’t is strange how we always used to get dressed up to go on an airplane? It was so different in those days — comfort and service were high priorities for the airlines.

Thanks, Tanabata.

Thanks, Bellezza. Audrey Hepburn … you put a smile on my face for all today! Thanks!

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Susan August 8, 2008 at 5:13 am

What a fun picture. I was an exchange student to The Philippines when I was in high school. It was a pivotal year for me, too – a year I will never ever forget.

I’m glad you had a good trip visiting with family.

LikeLike

Reply ↓

Robin August 8, 2008 at 9:17 am

Thanks, Susan. I’d be interested in your stories about living in the Philippines! These cultural exchanges are incredible experiences.

LikeLike

Reply ↓