A Leap of Faith

As we close in on 7 weeks until I leave for Panama/Italy, I'm finally starting to stress out a little (okay, a lot). It's actually sinking in that I'm going to be on the other side of the world for almost a year, away from my family, my friends, my language, my culture, my dance scene, and everything familiar. This must be how missionaries feel....except I get the comfort that I'll be able to talk to my family whenever I want and I'm free to actually have a life over there. Don't get me wrong, the excitement far outweighs the stress, but the stress is just a new part of the ball game for me now.

I'm trying to go with as few possessions as possible, so thinking about how to fit everything I could possibly need in a foreign country in 2 backpacks and a messenger bag is freaking me out a little. But I can't think of a more reasonable way to do it. I want to feel light, yet prepared, and I think the perfect balance will work itself out. This website has been super helpful in researching which kinds of backpacks are best, what to pack, and how to travel smart. Check this chick out!

In the midst of the stress/excitement, there is an immense calm. I have never wanted something so badly or worked this hard for anything up to now, and as the weeks go by I only feel more and more right about it. My housing is falling into place, the tickets are being purchased, and soon I'll have a passport. The more I trust that God has it in hand, the easier things get. He's so awesome that way :)

Anyway, I just wanted to take a minute to express how grateful I am and keep you all in the loop of how things are progressing! Thank you for all the love and support you've been sending my way, you have no idea how good it makes me feel!

Happy Friday!!

Also, just to make you a little jealous ;) this is where I'll be in 7 weeks:

And a couple weeks after that, I'll be here: 

Yup, be jealous.