A Post....finally!

My life has been crazy lately to say the least!  Everyday this week I didn't already have plans made I decided I was going to pack and get things done but then suddenly my day was filled and I got nothing done that I had planned.  So needless to say I'm not packed and I have tons of paperwork to do.  I have, however, seen nearly all my friends, spent time time at Lake Calhoun and the arboretum enjoying the  perfect fall weather, ate some fabulous food and had multiple sleepovers with the coolest first graders and 3 year old I know!  All far more important (and fun) than packing and paperwork!  It will all get done with a couple late nights, but I need to get used to the time change anyway, right?  I have about a million thoughts, ideas, feelings and emotions floating around in my head at all times.  I'm not terribly nervous though, hopefully that's not a bad thing.  I've had such a long time to prepare for this and think about what it may be like and now that it's actually happening I just feel ready.  I moved out of my apartment yesterday and I was definitely sad sitting in my empty place thinking about all that has happened in the past 2 1/2 years I lived there and as much as I loved it, it wasn't that big of a deal.  I think it's all easier because I feel so good about my decision.  I feel like I have been preparing for this not just for the past year but for the past 5 years.  I've talked about moving or doing something big for years but it never happened and now it feels so good that something is finally happening.  I don't think I've ever felt as confident in any decision as I do about this one.  I have to do my best to remember that though (thanks Laura) because there will be days that I will think I made the worst decision of my life, hopefully they won't last long though and I'll make it through.

As excited as I am, the reality that I'm leaving and may not see many of the most important people in my life for over 2 years is hitting hard.  I am surrounded by the most amazing people.  I am completely overwhelmed by all the support I have received from everyone.  It means so much and I honestly couldn’t do this without it.  I'm lucky to have this opportunity that I can't imagine not taking advantage of it.  I just feel so lucky!

  

So here are some of the more exciting details; I found out there are 71 of us going which is a lot of people to be spread throughout such small country meaning that when I'm at post I likely won't be more than an hour away from the nearest volunteer and will probably be much closer than that.  Also, we won't stay with a family during our 10 week training as most Peace Corps volunteers do.  They said because of the country's history the people are generally more guarded and not as trusting of foreigners.  Instead we will live in groups with other volunteers (back to college life!).  There will be advantages and disadvantages to this but ultimately I'm disappointed, I was looking forward to the experience and having a connection in Rwanda handed to me but obviously I trust the Peace Corps' judgment. 

Well hopefully I will be able to update frequently, no guarantees but I'll do my best and likely the next time you hear from me I'll be in Rwanda then I will have much more exciting things to post!

Annie