63 Days!!!

In 63 days I will be on a plane to start for 27 month journey with the Peace Corps in Cameroon. I am starting to sell things in Portland and buy things for Cameroon. It just dawned on me that in less than a years time I have moved to 2 states (from Arizona, to California and finally Oregon), have traveled to 8 countries (Canada, England, Belgium, The Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Italy, Croatia) or 10 countries if you count Monaco and Rome. I have also traveled to Washington: 3 times (Seattle, Bellingham and Spokane), Arizona: twice (Phoenix and Tucson), California: twice; home (and I will be going back for Easter) and have been to San Francisco: 3 times, New York (Andy & Carole's Wedding)and Pittsburgh for work.

Now I am off to Cameroon! This year has been a whirlwind. After looking back on my travels this year...I realized that I am just like my Dad in regards to that I have been bitten by the travel bug!

Looking back on those 365 days I am exhausted, looking forward to the 63 days it stresses me out, but looking beyond those 63 days to 820 (about the time I am serving) I am excited. As I think about those 820 days that I will be serving, I am thinking about the quote I used in my high school yearbook: "Only the curious have something to find." I think that couldn't not be more true.

Please save these dates: Going away party at my parent's house in North Tustin, CA May 28th...everyone is welcome to come!

4:52 AM

I cannot sleep. I have been frantically searching the internet about people's experiences in the Peace Corps, Africa and Cameroon. I keep reading blog after blog attempting to figure out what I should expect and how I should prepare. I am tired, but I cannot keep researching. My emotions are going crazy...at times I am through the roof excited, other times I want to vomit because I am so nervous. My sister said it best today, Don't think...Just do. That will be my mantra.

I have started to get things for my 27 months. So far, I have a backpack, pair of pants, skirt and a couple shirts. I am not quite sure how one prepares for this. If anyone has suggestions...I would love some help!

I leave for Cameroon in 73 days.


Don't think. Just do.

Mt. Hood

I never thought that I would say this...but 25 degrees and sunny is amazing! I would take that any day over 40 and rainy. I went to Mt. Hood yesterday to soak up the sun and get a few runs in. I am determined before I leave to hike as far as I can up Mt. Hood. Anyone care to join me?