8 days until takeoff

I am still in shock that in a mere 8 days, I will be heading to the airport in Philadelphia to commence the journey that I have been preparing for and thinking about for over two years. Only 8 days until I leave eveything and everyone I have ever known to do something I have never done before with people I have yet to meet. I have read tons of material on Niger and read blogs from other people on my assignment. Still I am certain that I will be completely surprised by what I am about to see and learn. How to I even begin to process something that I can't form any tangible expectation about?

I have recieved a few emails over the last week, a letter to send to my family, a packing list and flight details. It is actually happening. I am joining the Peace Corps in just 8 days. I pray that it will work out, that the people will be nice and that my work will be rewarding.  I have never been so scared in my life and yet I know that there is no other option. Despite the dangers, the diseases and the poverty, I know that the Sahara Desert is where I want to be between ages 22 and 24. Hold on Niger, Here I come.!

The practical logistics of my service are as follows:
July 7-10: Staging in Philadelphia
July 11-October 11: Pre-Service Training in Hamdallaye
October 11 2008- October 11 2010: Peace Corps Service with exact location TBA

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