LESS THAN 16 DAYS!

It is 2:30 am.  Most people are in dreamland by now, peacefully sleeping so they are well rested for tomorrow.  Not me...I'm on this blog typing, making check lists, thinking about our India trip.  Well, this is no record for me being up late because my mind won't settle down.  It has been a life's pattern for as long as I can remember.  It happens a little more frequently when something big is about to happen or if I am a little over stressed about something.  Usually it is a combination of both.

Karli and Jeff

 The last time I recall this happening was this past fall as the wedding planning for my daughter was in full swing.  We had less than three months to plan a Dec. 11th wedding and I didn't know what the heck I was doing.  I had just changed jobs in the school district and was now instructing secondary ELL kids from eleven different countries and three different schools.  It was crazy to say the least. As always everything turned out perfect, especially them.  The lack of sleep was the sacrifice but so worth it.

A few essentials

This time it is our India trip.  I can't stop thinking about what we still need to do to get prepared for this big adventure. 

We don't have a lot left to do at this stage.  We have to do some shopping for a few necessities to take on the trip.  We have to come up with an activity to do with the kids that teaches them a skill or is something fun that they would enjoy.   I'm open to any ideas or suggestions you may have.  Inexpensive, creative and with very little to pack is what we are looking for.

Most of all I can't stop thinking of how I will respond to the Indian culture and the situations we will be placing ourselves in. This will be so different than anything I will have been exposed to.

I am nervous about how we will respond when going into the colonies.  I am hoping that compassion will take over and we are able to rise to the occasion.

I am nervous about Indian toilets and bucket showers.  Enough said.

I am trusting that the vaccinations and meds will do what they are supposed to do.  I am hoping that the lice are on vacation somewhere else while we are there.  Let's hope Niks keeps them at bay.

I am nervous about getting off of the plane,(hopefully our bags arrive) and trusting that the hotel driver is there to pick up two very jet lagged and tired ladies up.

I am hopeful that we are packing just enough of the right stuff.  I won't know where to get it once I get there.  This is a one shot deal.

Safety is my highest concern as I know India operates a lot different from America.  I have Quincy in my care and that makes me even more aware of this.

The language barrier is a challenge and somewhat intimidating.

Figuring out the exchange in rupees is a little befuddling.  I get confused with changing dollars into pounds.

At this point I am beginning to sound like I am scared silly.  I know there is no growth in myself if I remain in my comfort zone always.  To grow you have to step outside of that and experience new things.  I know Quincy and I are up for this.  I need to be positive and know that through these experiences we are going to change and contribute to something much bigger than us.  The time is near.  The anticipation is intense.  Writing and venting on this blog is therepeutic.  Once we step on the plane the waiting will be over and the ride will officially begin.  Like the wedding, I know this trip is going to be unforgettable and worth the lack of sleep.  Sixteen days.