Before I go

I haven't got too long before I'm off. Before there's no more 'you must be so excited' talk and there's no more packing. But I wanted to mention a few things before I go:

Foreign exchange will be a brilliant addition to my life. People have said that I'll come back a different person, and that bothers me a little. I still appreciate the enthusiasm for my trip, but I don't think what they've said is true. I'll come back, still the same girl, but with a million different new, moving, funny, beautiful, scary, interesting images in my eyes. And a thousand different new feelings that have passed through my heart. This trip will be unforgettable.

I've said, about a year and a half ago, that foreign exchange is the best way to go. I take that back. I think foreign exchange is a great decision for me, but it does not have to be the best and only way to experience travel, or to continue an education for everyone.

I think I'll do what makes me deeply happy until it's doesn't make me feel that way any more, and then I'll do something else. My boyfriend said that once, in a slightly different way, but I've adopted it because I think it's so wonderful. It applies to this trip so well, this adventure will make the explorer in me so happy!

Tonight I talked to some incredible people. My parents had a get together at our house tonight and had a couple of their friends over, so many of their friends here in Eureka have traveled all of the world and the US. I got to talk with nearly all of them about my trip and get great advice, tips, and encouragement. I want to thank them all. One day maybe I'll have as many great stories to share as them.

Thanks, Acadia.

And by the way, I've packed the essentials.
-peanut butter
-chocolate chips
-candy to hand out
-coins to hand out
-postcards to hand out
-gifts for my host family
-envelopes for letters (mostly to Justin and friends)
-a lot of clothes
-shoes
-sunscreen
-insect repellent
-recipes
-pictures of home
-toiletries
-dancing clothes
-jacket

Any suggestions? Did I forget something?