Oh say can you see...

Am starting out my journey to Ecuador here in our nation's capital. Today is our staging event, at which there will be talks, listens, immunizations, and forms galore.

A funny thing happened to me this morning as I was preparing to leave my house for two years. I had been racing up and down stairs, unzipping suitcases and cramming things in, making copies of important documents, etc. etc., and I was about ready to vomit from stress, when suddenly I realized that this is probably how I will be feeling for the next few months. I have never been and never will be someone who plans ahead and packs their bags a week in advance. (I probably should have realized this in the ninth grade when I had to come home during my free period to finish a physics presentation due the next hour.)

The reality is, as much as I prepare for whatever comes next, I'll never be completely ready. And, as a very wise person told me, this is as it should be: "Explore foreign countries with optimism and caution. Entertain new cultures and ideas while solidifying your own foundation and values...May your experiences confirm that God is everywhere: in a striking sunset, an act of kindness, a smile from a toothless village elder."

I'm on a quest to find that joyful, toothless smile. Please join me as I go.