New Beginnings

Well.....I AM HERE!
I have waited for this moment for so incredibly long and I just cannot fully grasp the fact that I am in Johannesburg, South Africa...this is real!

It is currently 5:30 AM here and I am awake. I got lots of sleep though which was nice. Waking up and hearing birds chirping and listening to the breeze outside my window was so beautiful. Then laying in bed and realizing that I wasn't in the United States was super strange. I honestly can't describe my feelings at the moment. Meeting everyone from my group was really awesome. Everyone is super nice and comes from such interesting backgrounds. We have only been here less than a day and I have learned so much already. I am excited to learn more about everyone and share this wonderful experience together.

Today our plans are learning more about the liberation struggle in South Africa. We will travel to Soweto and get to see lots of historic places such as the Mandela house. I am sooo ready to explore and learn about new and exciting places.

I can't help but have another thing on my mind as well though. As many of you know, my Papa passed away the night before I left. I know he is in a better place and it was a relatively peaceful death. I just feel like I lost an incredibly important part of my life and realizing that is really difficult. Especially when you can't be with your family at such a tough time like this. I know my Papa didn't really understand why I was going to Africa or why I didn't want to just be a doctor but I know he is looking down on me and I hope I am making him proud. You were an amazing man who lived a wonderful 85 years and we are all thinking of you.  Love you Papa, your memories will never be forgotten

Here's to new beginnings and new adventures!