Getting Ready

Now that is September, and only a month before I depart for the unknown, I am terribly excited. Facebook has introduced me to a few people that will also be a part of Ethiopia Group 3 which makes the adventure more of a reality. This past week my parents visited from Maryland and we got the paperwork business out of the way (appointing power of attorney, insurance, car etc...) and they also were a HUGE help in outfitting me for the journey. True to form I packed immediately and am just about physically ready to go. Not sure I'm emotionally ready quite yet. I don't really feel like I'm leaving my friends and family, that part hasn't sunk in.

For those of you who are working on packing, here is a list of items I've packed. If you have any suggestions please let me know! I tend to under pack (who goes to eastern europe without a raincoat?!) so its likely I forgot something.

Netbook/DVD drive
Memory sticks
Camera
Voltage/Outlet converters
Ipod
Chacos trail shoes
Sandals
Hiking boots (keen hybrids)
Clothes
Toiletries
Sun Block
Sewing Kit
Non-stick frying pan
Knife
Headlamp
Nalgene bottles
Flavored water packets
Alarm clock
Bandanas
DVDs
Pictures
Gifts for host family
Books
Duct tape
Stationary
Journal
Playing cards
Scrabble
Sleeping bag (thanks greg and melissa!)

And probably a few other things I forgot to list.