It’s officially a week until I leave for South Africa, it doesn't seem possible since just a year ago I decided to apply for this program when at the time this trip seemed too perfect for me and too good to be true, it's incredible how things work out!
I woke up this morning for the first time with that real uneasy feeling in my stomach realizing it was my last Sunday morning in Rochester with my parents and my last time going to church here at home. Thankfully, I’m not nervous because I’m unsure about going, but because I LOVE my family and friends so much that I’m not looking forward to the goodbyes. My best friend and I debated on whether or not to even see each other before she departed back to school because the goodbyes are no fun! So if it just so happens that I haven’t had the chance to say goodbye to you… don’t take it personally I almost dodged saying good bye to my very best friend Katlyn!
Now about the packing process! It is a little crazy, but in actuality not as bad as I anticipated it being. As if taking up two bedrooms for myself at home wasn’t enough I now I have also taken over my brother’s room so I have enough space to pack! As my pictures show there is stuff everywhere but surprisingly I think I’m doing well and not over packing (simply because I know I will want to shop when I’m there and need space to bring things home J). I think both my parents are anxious for this part to be over because there are constantly clothes everywhere as I run around the house asking them which jeans or shorts they like better…usually I come to the conclusion that it’s silly to chose, and I’m better off to just bring both options!
Now that I’ve gotten most of the essentials out and ready to pack I’m working to figure out what things I will need to make me feel comfortable and homey while I’m so, so far away from home. My blanket is an obvious must, along with a tiny very soft stuffed animal from my mom, a few pictures, and a soft pillowcase! Finally, something I’m grateful to have to take with me is a letter from one of my best friends from school. Nicole just returned from studying abroad in Australia and after a dinner party with her and my other good friends from school she gave those of us going abroad each a letter. She gave me advice that she was given before leaving for her trip first semester and it’s what I’ll end on so I can go to bed thinking of these things myself and the wonderful journey I have ahead of me…
Be brave.
Be safe.
Fall in love.
Keep a journal.
Don’t be afraid to try.
Don’t be afraid to fail.
Bloom where you are planted.
Spread your sunshine.
Always learn from every circumstance.
Remember that life is a journey. God leads you down your path.
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