Bon Voyage (Almost)

So, here's the thing. I am leaving for Africa TOMORROW (yes, tomorrow) and I feel as if my body might spontaneously combust at any moment. Not just because I am stressed out, nervous, and excited-- but also because the reality of this trip is finally starting to drop on me, and I feel like spontaneous combustion is the only way I'll be able to process the awesomeness. I've spent most of today in a blurred frenzy of last-minute packing and checklist-making. This is the first sliver of free time I've had to really sit down and comprehend the fact that the big blue suitcase in front of me is packed because I AM GOING TO AFRICA. Not for a week in New Baltimore, a family vacation to Arizona, or a holiday break at home. For Africa... the real Africa, of Lion King fame.

There's a lot left to be done before I head to the airport tomorrow afternoon, so I should probably bid farewell to the internet until I can rest assured that every skirt, camera cord, and personal hygiene product is resting safely in the pockets of my suitcase. Goodbye for now, blog. See you in Nairobi.

For your entertainment, I have added a photo of me looking extremely disheveled while hugging my trusty wiener dog pillow/personal stress-reliever. This photo was taken today after I made the tough decision to leave my guinea pig Beanie Baby at home. I suppose I can manage.