5.9. 2011- 31 days and counting

Time is NOT stopping and now its 31 days' til I start my next chapter in life: Peace Corps PERU! First off...I may have been a little late to the party (unusual of me because I'm usually on top of this stuff) but I found a Facebook group for "Peru 17ers". For those of you who don't get it (although its pretty straightforward)... we are the 17th group headin' to Peru (and the 8th Youth Development group). We are comprised of Youth Development (that's me, woohoo) and Business Development trainees (we won't be volunteers officially until we are sworn in after our 3 months of pre-service training). It's nice to finally see have people experiencing all the emotions that I am... aka not fully understanding how the H. E double hockey sticks I'm packing for the next 2 years in 2 bags that in total can't weigh more than 80 lbs. This has anxiety written all over it for me. However, it was nice to get some insight on what to bring and what NOT to bring. Most of the stuff I will be able to actually buy once I'm in Peu.

My grandparents from North Carolina were up for the week to visit their other grandchildren, and to spend some time with me before I leave. My mom decided to have a family going away party while everyone was in town. So the first round of goodbyes begins. I've become extremely used to goodbyes because of school switches and moving. I have been able to hold back tears thus far. I've tried to remind people that 2 years goes fast. I graduated college in 4 and I'm still trying to figure out where ALL that time went. But, 2 years is still a long time, and hugging someone for the last time for 2 years can be emotional. Not really looking forward to the next couple rounds of goodbyes. 

It was Mother's Day yesterday and I spent it with the greatest mom I know. I couldn't have a better mother who not only allows but supports my crazy idea to live in Peru. I hope everyone had a great day with your own mommas.

Me and Momma on Christmas!

So, now I wait for my staging directions. Staging is the Peace Corp's term for "the day before you leave for Peru." I will be taking a plane from La Guardia to DC for the day. The day is filled with meetings and getting more shots that I need. I leave for Peru June 10th.

P.S. : Congrats to all my friends graduating (esp my new fellow alumni Nittany Lions). Welcome to the real world. 

"Better by far to simply try and be good and courageous and bold and to make a difference. Not change the world exactly, but the bit around you. Go out there with your passion and your electric typewriter and work hard at... SOMETHING. Change lives through art maybe. Cherish your friends, stay true to your principles, live passionately and fully and well. Experience new things. Love and be loved, if you ever get the chance." - One Day by David Nicholls

Hasta la próxima vez
Brielle