Well, the day has finally arrived! I've said my goodbyes, packed my life into a suitcase, gone through the tedious visa application process, and done my best to prepare myself for the great year that lies ahead. I have so many thanks to give I don't know where to begin. My family, for starters, has been absolutely wonderful, family friends have shown such love, and my friends have made my last few months simply perfect.
I've had the best time living with my grandparents the last couple months (though I was rarely home except to shower, eat, and nap). It was great hearing stories from their youth and their travel stories.
My brothers have had nothing but encouraging words for me along the way. For those of you who don't know... Donny and I were at St. Cloud together and when I transferred to North Dakota I was lucky enough to be with PJ! This will be the longest I've spent away from either of them and that will be tough.
My parents have been wonderful. They have been at my side the entire way supporting me 100% and that couldn't have been easy! My dad has spent so much time making sure that everything works out in the smoothest way possible and I can't thank him enough for all of his help. My mom has held it together far better than I had ever expected, even when I had let my nerves get the best of me. It's very reassuring to know that I have two of the best people looking out and taking care of me. I love you guys!
To everyone who has donated to help support making my dreams a reality (with words of advice, prayers, and those who donated money to help fund my trip)... I honestly will never be able to thank you enough for the love you have shown me. Thank you thank you THANK YOU!
All of my friends that have spent time with me these last couple months... You have no idea how much it has all meant to me. Whether we spent just a few minutes together or a few days it really meant so much to me to be surrounded by people I love. I made so many new friendships in such a short time and strengthened many old ones. You all better skype me or I'm going to drop kick you upon my return.
I know that I haven't had too much to write about (and I'm really not much of a writer anyway) but the wait is over and it's all starting to unravel. I'll land in Cape Town around 9:40pm (8 hours ahead of Central time) and then I will meet up with the Africa Jam 2014 group! From there my true journey will begin and I expect it to be a year of lessons, memories, and great friendship. Keep following and I'll keep you posted! Happy New Year!!!
