"Run from the Rhinos..."

In just a couple of days I will be on my way to Botswana, and I am so excited!  I depart from Michigan on Friday evening, and after passing through Chicago, London, and Johannesburg, I will hopefully reach Botswana on Sunday afternoon (38 hours from when I leave!).

As I’ve been organizing my belongings and packing my bags, I’ve been thinking more and more about what I’ll miss this summer.  Even though I could not be more excited to begin my journey to Africa, I’ll still greatly miss seeing my family and friends, as well as taking part in all of my “summer traditions.”  I’ve tried to cram in as many Dairy Store and Tasty Twist trips as possible since I’ve been home, but it will still be strange to miss those in the coming months.  It will be my first summer without a visit to my Grandma’s, my first July without a trip to Mackinaw, and the longest amount of time that I’ve ever been away from home. 

As I’ve reflected on all the experiences that I will miss this summer, I’ve also thought a lot about all the amazing, exciting, and life-changing experiences I will have over the next few months.  I’m really looking forward to going on my first safari ride and seeing all of the wildlife that both Botswana and South Africa have to offer.  I’m also excited for my first “real” camping experience, which will take place in a rhino sanctuary!  I plan to travel to Robben Island and Cape Point while in South Africa, and I look forward to seeing places that I have only read about up until now.  Perhaps most importantly, I cannot wait to experience the culture of both countries by learning the local languages, meeting new people, and taking part in as many new experiences as possible.

Throughout my time in Botswana and South Africa, I will do my best to post plenty of updates, and please feel free to follow my blog by submitting your email address in the box at the top of the page or by clicking "Follow" in the box at right.  You can also feel free to post comments or responses, and if you have any last-minute advice for me before I leave, please let me know!  The best advice I have received thus far came from my mom, who reminded me to “run from the rhinos” if I am ever in a position of being chased by them. :)  Although I hope I will not have to put this advice into practice, I will still keep it in mind as I embark on my journey.  Thanks to everyone for your well wishes and support, and I’ll miss you all!

Peace,

Lizzy