Peace Corps wants me to reflect on my preparedness for the upcoming years. I went to the beach on a full moon night for some inspirado. What I came up with was this:
I have gained 15 pounds - just in case I get some diarrheal disease and I lose massive amounts of weight. This was also in conjunction with the fact that I have eaten anything and everything delicious I can get my hands on just to savor the flavors of home.
I have packed/unpacked/repacked about 30 times. I leave tomorrow, I'm still not packed.
I'll admit, instead of thinking about what I'm about to embark on, I have typically pushed it out of my mind so I didn't get too emotional. As much as I tear up at the thought of not seeing Mack take his first steps, not being able to call my parents when something is bothering me and saying good-bye to all these wonderful people, I still want to go. I still want this more than anything. That's a good sign, right?
I know it is a tough road ahead, but considering the support I have gotten this past month, I'm pretty sure I will be okay. However, you do make it hard to leave when you spoil me with wonderfully awesome good times - the last thing I want to imagine is sweating in my hut, swatting flies. A small price to pay for an adventure of a lifetime.
Thank you for the memories - I will cherish them on quiet nights. I hope I make you proud. I hope I don't get malaria. I hope you will remember me when I'm gone.
You don't have to worry about making us proud or being remembered, Kathi... those are givens. Can't help you with the malaria, though. Bon voyage.
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