Commencing countdown, engines on..

Have you ever had that dream where you’re totally unprepared for something that you didn’t know about, but are all of a sudden in the midst of? Well, that’s sort of how I feel right now. It’s like I’m floating in a dream world where I’m theoretically going around the world. In my dream I’ve been saying goodbye to friends and family, telling them all about my plans, and getting some sage advice. And between the goodbyes and the last minute shopping and gathering, I have been packing. Or rather, packing, unpacking, repacking, unpacking again, getting rid of things (for a pack rat that’s the hardest part), and repacking yet again. I have now successfully packed a carry on size bag that weighs about 20 pounds (it’s miraculous). With just a few very last minute things left, I finally have the time to stop and think.

All of a sudden, the dream bubble has popped, and left me in the reality of everything. With a final goodbye to my parents and sister, I’m putting my unbelievably small bag on my back, getting on the subway (super glamorous, I know), and starting this journey. I have no idea what to expect, I can’t even fathom it. But I guess I’ll know soon.

For those who don’t yet know, my first stop in a volunteer opportunity in the Ecuadorian Amazon. Seeing as how I’ll be living in a rainforest, I may or may not have internet (it depends how quickly I can chase after the monkey with the wifi router strapped to it’s back). So don’t worry if you don’t hear from me for a little. I promise that when I get internet again, there will be some amazing stories and photos, or at the very least a photo of me and my bag looking confused because I don’t yet speak spanish.

On the count of three, I’m jumping head first into the deep end.

One (deep breath)….

Two (double check everything)…

Three!