Leaving on a Jet Plane.

I have this pack.



And this many clothes.



This will fit into that. Somehow, someway I will make it happen.

Hence the packing, the number of days until I leave have dwindled to me being able to count them down on one hand. I'll be leaving from St. Louis early Sunday morning, like 4 am early. My good friend, Bob, will be driving me to the airport Saturday night so I look forward to the road trip up there. I should be landing in Guatemala City early in the afternoon and I will catch a chicken bus to Antigua (those old, beat up American school buses from the 1970s that make the difference between a $30 taxi ride and $1.00 bus ride). I’m ecstatic to see Silvia, Francesco, Lesli, Sabina, Willi, Alvaro, Diego, Samuel…some of my many friends I made when I lived in Antigua the summer of 2008. I’ve been informed it has been one year and eight months since I left (not that anyone’s counting) and everyone is resting in preparation for the “chica loca” (or crazy girl) that’s coming. Haha. I just hope I remember my Spanish!

Many thoughts running through my mind this week..

I’ve been emotional – especially with leaving my Dad. I am definitely leaving with a heavy heart and have struggled with the decision to stay and help my Mom or to leave. Thank god for his and my Mom’s understanding and selflessness – I couldn’t ask for any greater parents than them. I know he’ll be OK, but their selflessness just makes me wonder if I'm being selfish...

I’ve also felt overwhelmed with love for my awesome friends Bob, Evan, and Elli. They have made my last two weeks in the States wonderfully memorable. I am really going to miss them, especially the dinners and good, wholesome fun we all had together. They are all amazing individuals, so sweet and genuine and loving, and I instantly had a connection with all three of them. I need a stable friend base – I think they’ll be that for me..and I hope to be that for them as well. I am so incredibly lucky to know and have them in my life! <3

I feel bad I wasn't able to see everyone before I left and know that I am leaving some things unresolved, but whatever happens I can't sweat the small stuff. Missing you all already and I will let you all know when I have safely landed in Guate. Pen pals are definitely wanted! E-mail is lmwallace01@gmail.com