One last wave goodbye, and then I expose myself to the fresh air of clouds. People are staring because of the excitement evidently spreading across my face. I nod at the woman welcoming me into the close cabin where I will remain for the next two and a half hours. Hanging throughout the atmosphere is pure culture, many separate lives running into each other for just a fleeting time. My heart is beating rapidly as I find and take my seat. Pounding, pounding, pounding all the way until my stomach feels a jolt and I, along with all these strangers, are lifted into the air. We are flying and this is freedom. Here I come Canada, ready for the adventures that wait.