Salutations

Today, I write to you about the beginnings of a journey. Four days from now, I will find myself looking down upon the vast Atlantic Ocean, dreaming of nights to come on the shore of Dakar, Senegal. This semester, I travel to a Western country of Africa in the hopes of living as another in this cultural world. Though my heart has been calm during the weeks leading up, panic mode has begun…

Reality Check

I have so much stuff! That's a pretty typical statement of a person who has just spent the past three days rummaging through 14 boxes (yes 14) of clothes, shoes, books, and toiletries brought home from semester of college. But, really, it took me two straight days to pare it all down to the ESSENTIALS, which still entails one medium rolling suitcase (overstuffed), one carry-on rolling suitcase (a little more overstuffed), and a backpack, which is bursting at the seams. Just imagining going through security on Wednesday morning and Saturday afternoon with my two carry-ons, medication, liquids, and (of course) the laptop that has become my body's latest prosthetic brings ominous feelings to my soul.

Living in another country for four months will be an amazing opportunity affording knowledge and lived experiences that give meaning to people around the globe. It is with great eagerness and delight that I will study Anthropology and French and explore the depths of the city and the breadth of the countryside of Senegal for this time.

Packed and ready, I can finally get some sleep. My flight for New York leaves in the AM at 9:17, so think of me during your first class, your walk to breakfast, or hopefully your dreams!

Laura

P.s. Here's a shout out to my brother-in-law, Travis, who recommends the BEST songs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCca5mPMp9A