As I bring in the new year with my family and boyfriend, it really hits me for the first time that I'm about to leave for three months. The thought leaves me a little anxious, I won't lie. On the flip side, I know there is a world of new experiences and opportunities in Costa Rica and I tell myself that this will be okay. This is a huge step for me and a change in my normal lifestyle, but it's going to be worth every second and I absolutely cannot wait to see what I take home from this trip.
I talked with my brother Aaron a little bit tonight (he's in New York visiting friends and I won't be able to see him before I leave - he left to go there on Christmas Day) and this past summer he spent a month in the Philippines and Singapore with relatives and friends. He gave me some really good advice that reassured me in preparing myself for this trip. He told me to take lots of photos and just to take advantage of the experiences and opportunities, because it will go by quickly.
I know this trip will fly by, so I'm ready to make the most of it. I'm going to fully immerse myself and not take anything for granted.
Oh, and I keep forgetting that my 22nd birthday is the same day that I depart for Costa Rica.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!