So...in theory, my packing should be done...

And in the meantime, I have read the blogs of many other volunteers who are preparing as well.  This of course has led me to feel that I am wholly unprepared.  I have rewritten my packing list multiple times and probably have less than 1/3 of my bags packed.  Funny how that works.  Every time I went to pack more, I realized that a delicious cup of tea was calling my name, or there was some laundry to be done, or I needed to check my facebook again just in case somebody posted something terribly interesting.  Oh dear.  I may be a horrible procrastinator...

But on the plus side, I have seen some fun youtube videos, goofed off with great friends, and made bunny ears while dancing around my apartment to carmelldansen!

Well, I basically have tomorrow to pack everything because I am going on one last camping adventure with friends before I say my final goodbyes.   Here's hoping that I can do it without losing my mind in the process.

Gus doodled a map of Senegal for me on my money belt!

Preparation

As my departure date draws terrifyingly closer,  I have been doing everything in my power to prepare myself mentally while procrastinating all of the physical preparation.  This is pretty typical for me, but still a tad worrisome as well. As part of my mental preparation checklist, I took a two week or so road trip to say goodbye to as many people as possible.  This was a bit of an adventure in itself. I visited 8 states and 7 national parks or monuments in that time, had an awesome time road tripping with Jon and Tim, and said goodbye to far too many friends and family.  My heart still hurts a bit from this since I know it is a bit more difficult to pick up a phone and call home from West Africa. 

I think what terrifies me most is the fact that I have never left the U.S. before and am on my way to live in a foreign country for more than 2 years.  Pretty sure at least one person has already figured I am crazy.  And I probably am.  But it will be the opportunity of a lifetime!  And when have I been known to give up on something like that?

My mind is set and my bags are packed (well not really...I should get on that...). Wish me luck!