Tag Archives: Pre-departure

Ghana!

Posted on by under Ghana

Ghana Sunset

Today was an incredible day. For two reasons, first Alex graduated from USC with a Master’s degree!! He’s worked incredibly hard, and I am extremely proud of him. And second…we booked flights to GHANA!!! We’ll be leaving at the end of July and staying through the end of August. A short 5 weeks, but I couldn’t be more thrilled. I can’t begin to express how excited I am, and how thankful I am to be able to make this trip. These international volunteer ventures mean a great deal to me, in some sense, I live for them. Ever since my first day in Africa two years ago, I’ve had such an insatiable wanderlust, something I hope never leaves me. This time, I’m not sure if I’ll use an organization for volunteering, or just find something once in country. I’m still unsure about how I feel about foreign aid in general. And, it’s an “easy” country to travel too, especially for Africa, and I feel comfortable now on my own, but we’ll see. I’ve found some great conservation/agriculture sites that I’d love to participate in. Alex will be doing a medical internship, so he’s set. Regardless, I’m sure it will be an incredible experience and I absolutely cannot wait! Already counting the days-73.

The Next Adventure: Peru

Posted on by under CCS-Lima, Peru


It’s been over a year since my return to the US. I don’t believe a day went by during this time I didn’t think of traveling again. Perhaps I’ve romanticized Africa, but I can truly say it was one of the greatest times in my life. Im ecstatic to see what this next adventure will bring. It is markedly different of course. I’m going to Lima, Peru. A modern city. I am also not traveling alone. I can only imagine how polar this experience will be, and I’m glad, it’s new, somewhere I have yet to see. And I get to share this experience with someone I love. We leave in two days, and I absolutely cannot wait.
Already, I’ve noticed dramatic differences since last year. To be honest, I haven’t put much thought into it. I didn’t start packing until a few days ago. In terms of prepping I’ve mostly been researching the culinary scene in Lima. It is after all, a food capital, and I am clearly, in love with the industry.

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Away We Go

Posted on by under Africa, Tanzania

I’m on my way! First flight is delayed due to fog! But long layover in seattle so it should be fine. Apparently the incoming plane tried to land but missed!

The pullman flight ended up being cancelled but they were able to book me out of spokane. So after a stressful drive I’ve made it and my flight is on time! On to seattle!

Leaving Tomorrow

Posted on by under Africa, Tanzania

Signing up for this trip a year ago it sort of felt like it would never actually happen. Now, I’m leaving in less than 24 hours. I’m extremely excited, not too nervous now, though I’m sure that will change. I’m trying my best to not make a big deal out of this, even if it is. It seems perfectly normal to fly off for three months to a foreign country to volunteer, mostly because I feel that most people I know (mainly UPSers) have done something like this, or study abroad, or both! So it doesn’t feel that unique, which actually helps a lot. What I’m not excited for would be the 10 hour flight followed by the 8 hour flight!

Just said goodbye to my Dad and Sister, this has been a hard week! I already miss them =(
Now it’s just my Mom and I until tomorrow.