Okey dokey folks, I am officially on my way! As I look out the window of the plane it looks as if I am currently over the deserts of Nevada (okay, that’s actually just what the man next to me told me, but I believe him). About 2 more hours and I’ll be touching down in Denver!
For me, my trip officially began yesterday evening as I gathered my life into a suitcase that had to weigh under fifty pounds (extremely difficult btw). It was quite stressful for the whole family, even Cleo knew something was up as she was at my mom’s heels the whole night. As I kissed my parents goodnight however, the mood changed when my mom realized this would be the last goodnight kiss she could give me for quite some time. We all shed a couple of tears, smiled, and turned the lights out, “see you in 6 hours!” I said (we all went to bed at midnight and had to get up at six).
This morning as I gathered the last of my belongings, made my bed, and took a last look at my room, I had a very strange feeling, the feeling that I was dying. Very morbid, I know, but for the last week, people kept talking to me as if I was never coming back, never going to be seen again. One neighbor even told me that my parents were probably in the process of mourning, an expression I only thought is used in relation to death! Then, this morning, I made up my room perfectly, as if my parents would remember me fondly by the cleanliness of my room. I’m no psychologist so I can’t tell you precisely the reasoning behind such feelings, but I imagine they have to do with the fear of the unknown. As soon as I arrive however, I’m sure that fear will turn to excitement.
On the drive over my dad mentioned how he fell asleep last night thinking of all the happy memories we shared. I told him that now he can focus on my mom and make even more happy memories with her. He smiled J. Saying goodbye at the airport was fairly emotional for all of us, but the sense that adventure was just around the corner kept me positive and tear-less. And then I was off…
I’m not sure what to expect in the coming year, month, or even hour, but I know I am in for a great adventure. Much love to my parents and friends. I will talk and see you soon (because I am not dying, really, I’m just taking a stroll into the unknown).
P.S. Earth from the sky is absolutely beautiful. I am looking at a long range of snow capped mountains right now.
Hi Linz! Just to let you know, we are NOT in mourning! Diana S. texted me after your flight took off and asked me how I was doing. I texted her back; "Proud, confident and sad at the same time". We are VERY proud of you and your commitment to AmeriCorps. We are also confident that you will have a great and challanging time. And we are only sad because we will miss your smiling face everyday.
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