In two weeks, the FXExpress Publications, Inc. team will head to Los Angeles for the GT Tested Reader Survey awards, hosted at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

I am excited for this event. This is my second awards event but my first GT Tested Reader Survey awards party, and I can’t wait to see how it goes. This trip is full of firsts for me, some I am excited about and some I am nervous for.

This is my first time going to California, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’ve been wanting to visit California for years, and I can’t believe I am finally going. I hope the weather is nice so we can get a break from the cold in Pennsylvania.

Another first is this is my first flight with a layover. I am a little nervous about this. I’ve always had direct flights and never had to get off a plane to get on another one. I’ve flown by myself a good amount, so I am not worried about that. I am more worried about navigating an airport I’ve never been to and finding the place I need to be to hop on my second flight. Although I am nervous, I have a feeling I will be fine!

Also, it is my first big trip with Global Traveler; so far, I have only traveled to New York for the Wherever Awards.

I am so excited for this trip full of firsts! Check back next month to see how everything went.

— Mary Melnick, social media and editorial coordinator