It always seems like time flies when you have a million things to do. It feels like every time I blink another day passes and I'm that much closer to leaving. Don't get me wrong, I'm getting so excited (especially that I finally get to have my bff as a roommate!) but I'm also starting to panic about leaving my family and my American life behind. Anxiety and I seem to go hand-in-hand these days.
I have had a few setbacks with my classes so far. As always, I freaked out and was worried about working everything out so I could still graduate next year as planned. Thanks to the help of a very generous professor at Grand Valley (and a bottle of wine with Ann to calm my nerves), things are all starting to come together. My professor offered to do an independent study while I'm abroad so I can get enough credits to finish school next year. She and I will be skyping and emailing all of my lectures. It will be interesting, but I am so so soooo thankful she's doing it for me. Everyone kept telling me things would work out...Guess I just have to believe that more often. So with the independent study, I'll be taking five classes this coming semester. Not sure exactly what they'll be, but mostly likely some literature, grammar, and hopefully a flamenco (Spanish dance) class. Needless to say, it'll be an interesting semester!!
So tonight I'm sitting down with a pen and several pieces of paper and beginning to make a million lists to get ready for departure. So far I've got "To-Do," "To-Buy," and "To-Pack." And of course, I've sub-categorized the "To-Pack" list into "Clothes" and "Stuff." How on earth I'm supposed to fit four months of clothes and stuff into two suitcases is beyond me. But I'm determined----But unfortunately "a bigger suitcase" is on my "To-Buy" list!
Thankfully, Ann and I have a few wonderful friends who have studied abroad and are so helpful with all of our questions. Katelyn, if you're reading this, thank you! It is such a relief to have someone who's been there and done that to answer all of our questions. Don't know what we'd do without you!
Surely the next two weeks will be filled with more lists, errands, packing, hugs, tears, and (unfortunately) farewells. Prayers to help me deal with my anxiety are greatly appreciated. I know that I am so lucky to be able to do this so I am very excited for the anxiety to pass and the excitement to begin!
T-minus 2 weeks until the adventure of a lifetime!
Until next time,
Natalie
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