Breathe and be...

Today begins my journey in South America. I have been incredibly excited and anxious about traveling for some time now. The day has come and for the first time I was scared. I felt myself being alone, venturing out into a somewhat unknown world. I suddenly understood why so many had called me brave for traveling like this. In this moment of fear and tears I could not have been more grateful for the support I continue to receive. These words in particular stuck with me: "Courage is not without fear. Courage is having fear and doing the thing that scares you anyway." I felt my strength coming back with the acknowledgement of this idea. I realize I'm doing something that many people will not do, either because of choice, fear, or inability. I am excited to go on this journey, to see what the world is like in a different language...

My last weeks have been truly special. I spent a lot of sunshine-filled days in San Diego hanging out with the people I wanted to be with most, enjoying each other and smiling. I flew to Atlanta to drop what few things I held onto at my mom's, visit and watch some great rugby. It was wonderful to be with my family for a few days-laughing and enjoying each other's company. We went to the Atlanta 7s tournament and cheered like crazy for Team USA! Taking in a splash of rugby and the people who come along with it was really great.

Of course my last night was an all nighter! I packed and repacked, watched the Olympics, hung out with my fam, drank wine and did a bunch of things I didn't really need to do..until 2am. Mom and I woke at 4, had a mini breakfast and got moving to the airport. Once we said our goodbyes and took a few pics I headed in for the first leg of my flight. Once in Miami, I exchanged dollars for Colombian pesos and was ready to take off! Then came the tears and deep breaths. 

I'm on the plane now, about half way through the flight and the excitement has come back to me! My first night I Colombia will be in Bogotá. I'm staying at La Niña hostel and will travel by bus tomorrow to my long term destination. I think the first few days might be a challenge, but I'm looking forward to it...

Here goes!