Sunday, March 7, 2010

Jumble of Emotions

As I mentioned in my first blog post, I don't know how often I will keep this blog updated. In the seven weeks since I last posted, I've had internet access at my finger tips and still haven't managed to post another entry (then again, I haven't done anything noteworthy). I've been meaning to write this entry for weeks, but I did what I do best- procrastinate. Where to begin... the past few weeks have been full of laughter, tears, and nerves. I've said more farewells than I can keep track of and they keep coming. It's been difficult to say goodbye, but strangely not as bad as I originally anticipated. Peace Corps and Senegal are actually happening (I'm writing this on the plane ride to DC), but I don't think the reality has set in and hit me yet. I'll keep you updated on this front aka if I have a mini panic attack on the plane ride to Senegal.

Packing
I don't know how i would have survived the nightmare of packing without my friends and family. Those of you who have suffered through my packing dilemas know how much I looooooooove (ha!) packing. You would think that all those basketball trips would adequetly prepare me for packing, but having "travel outfits" made packing at 5am so easy. But what about all those other trips I've taken this past year, shouldn't that have prepped me? Far from it. I am the queen of overpacking because I like having options. So how was I supposed to pack for two years with an 80 pound weight limit..I made lists and more lists. I put off actually packing til this past wednesday where I engaged in an intricated game of luggage tetris with various clothing items, toiletries wrapped in ziploc bags, and crystal light packets. I managed to fit everything into a 65lb hiking backpack and a duffel bag (thank you Swim with Mike), with odds and ends and my netbook going into a smaller backpack. I am happy to report that my luggage weighed in at 73.8 lbs- a mini miracle. But, I feel like I overpacked and underpacked at the exact same time. We'll see how efficient I was in the coming weeks. I will eventually post what I packed, along with what i should've brought.

Support
I am so grateful for my support system. From listening to me complain about packing to letters to going away presents, my support system has been with me every step of the way. I want to thank everyone for all their support. It means so much to me and I will carry all the love with me to Senegal. I already miss everyone so much and I haven't left the United States yet. However, the excitement for what is to come balances it out.
I have my mailing address for training! I will only be here for the first two months and the mail may take up to three weeks, so plan accordingly =)

PCT: Wilma Mui
Corp de la Paix
B.P. 299
Thies, Senegal
West Africa

Make sure to write Par Avion or airmail on the envelopes! I expect life updates via snail mail, email, facebook posts, and/or skype (add me: wilmamui).

Africa Bound
The next time I post, it'll be from Senegal! I can't wait to see what I will be doing, learn a new language, and experience something new.

--Peace Out

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