Oli Otya?

Well family and friends, the time has almost come for me to depart to Africa! I can't believe it. I remember turning in my application to volunteer with HELP on September 20th (my Dad's birthday!), and feeling like this adventure was years away. But nearly eight months later, I am ready to go! I've gone to many trainings that have been really interesting and helped me get a better perspective of what my experience will be like in Uganda. These are the ones I've been to: Orphanage Work, Public and Community Health in the Developing World, Introduction to International Development, In-Country Safety and Security, Project Planning and Implementation, Understanding Yourself as an Instrument, and Intercultural Communication.

Another thing I've spent time on to prepare for this trip is fundraising. I want to thank my family members, friends, and everyone that donated in response to my letters. Also, to those that donated to the Tipping Bucket Organization that raised money for us to set up Eye Camps in Uganda. THANK YOU! I have full confidence that the projects we implement will greatly improve the quality of many lives. I can't wait to update you all on the things we accomplish and the experiences I have.

I want to express again how thankful I am for this opportunity to serve. I've had so much support from my family especially, even though my parents are a little nervous about my travels to a developing country like Africa. :) My younger brother Nate was able to volunteer with YouthLinc last summer in Kenya and had a life-changining experience there. While I've always wanted to volunteer abroad, I never imagined I'd be going to Africa! But I remember him coming home and seeing the light in his eyes as he spoke of his experiences. He had so much joy whenever he talked about the Kenyan people. I can definitely say that Nate played a part in my decision to pick Africa out of the countries that HELP sends volunteers to. I already feel love for the Ugandans and I can't wait to meet them!

The next time I write on here I'll be in Uganda!! :) bye everyone!
P.S. "Oli Otya" means "How are you?" in Luganda, the tribal language spoken in Uganda! Can't wait to pick some of it up!
P.S.S. Happy Birthday to my awesome Mom!! I love you!