Reached my destination

Yesterday, I began my first of hopefully many more adventures out of the country that is the United States. Do not get me wrong, I enjoy the life that I have been fortunate to live, but there is much to see in the world and my time is limited.

My adventure actually started a few days ago when I left my small village of Nisbet to head towards Callicoon, New York. The name had been completely unfamiliar to me but the friendly faces of those that greeted me there assured that my presence was welcomed.

Being treated to a lovely stay in the woods of Callicoon, I was able to relax and mentally prepare myself for the journey ahead alongside Lindsay, my partner in crime for this adventure.

This calmness ended when we hustled to New York City to stay for the day prior to boarding the plane. Amusing road rage both made me pray for my life as well as thank the driver for quickly getting to where we needed to be.

Eating like kings and queens, we stuffed our faces until we could barely move multiple times throughout the day. Japenese and Indian foods filled my tummy on the last day in the states. I went to bed that night not knowing what to expect when I boarded my flight.

The flights, including the layover is Miami, Florida, went as schedule and we arrived on time to the beautiful country of Costa Rica. We, including another girl arriving at the same time, were kindly flagged down by a representative from the volunteer organization and driven via taxi to our respective host families.

The house is filled with beauty and Cameron, our host “madre,” has been nothing but nice to us. Communication has proven to be difficult due to language barriers but everyone is finding their patience and going on the journey together.

Cameron showed us San Pedro, which is the section that I am living in for the next month. I have come to realize that I will be viewed as an attraction to most of the locals of the area. It has proven impossible to fit in with blonde hair, light skin, and blueish green eyes. The reactions have been mixed but I take it all in as a learning experience.

I am now winding down on the top bunk in my lovely host family’s home and playing in my ear are the sounds of World Wrestling being commentated in Spanish. The only thing that may top that television oddity is seeing a preview for Los Simpsons.

I kid, of course, as the most amazing part of the day was finally exiting the plane and stepping out onto Costa Rican land. I am at my home, even if it may only be for a month.

I LEAVE THIS MONTH

I cannot believe how fast time is going! I leave the country in less than a month and I'm not sure if I'm prepared or not but I am going to find out! Haha I cannot wait though to finally arrive and start my volunteering.

I called my doctor and informed him that I would need to receive a few shots in preparation for the trip.  I am still waiting to hear back but I am looking forward to getting prepared.  Luckily I can handle shots and this aspect of the trip will not be a problem for me.

Thanks to everyone who has offered words of wisdom for the trip.  Everything and anything is appreciated.  This would not be possible without the selflessness of other people.