Positives That Have Come From a Postponed Departure...

Despite still being upset about not being in Lesotho (yes, I am still upset, and I predict I will always be a bit disappointed about the whole thing) there are a few positives things that have come from not leaving as soon as originally planned.


As much as I would have loved to be in a climate that was heading into the summer months, it would have been a bit weird to celebrate thanksgiving (my absolute favorite holiday) and christmas in summer and more importantly without my family.  As a result of not leaving in November, I did get to celebrate Thanksgiving with my family.  The food was amazing and the company great, though Justin and Carmen were missed.  


Christmas is in two weeks, and I dont think we know what our plans are yet.  No one had planned on me still being around, so I think every one made their own plans, especially since my brother is now engaged.  We will see what ends up.  But anyway it pans out it will be great to be home (in the cold) for christmas.  In a month I will turn 24.  I have always always always wanted a summer birthday. My postponed departure prevented that this year.  But next year I will turn 25 in St. Kitts and Nevis.  Not too shabby. 


Lastly, the extra three months of rest and relaxation was much needed.  Five years of unrelenting homework, midterms, finals, projects, research, lab work, presentations, volunteering (my stress reliever, but a responsibility nonetheless) and tons of stress and a lack of sleep really caught up with me.  I needed three months to catch up on sleep alone.  Having no responsibilities for three months before I leave to one of the most challenging adventures of my lifetime is a blessing.  Now I will be completely rested and fresh to start my service, and can give my absolute all and 100%. Though, thats not to say that I wouldnt have in Lesotho.  If you know me even a little bit, you know that I do not do anything half heartedly and I would do anything in my power to see that the work I was doing was above and beyond the requirements or expectations. 


Additionally, I have been able to spend very valuable time with my mom, work on my scrapbooks to take with me to St Kitts and Nevis to give me some sense of familiarity, and return to Philly countless times.