Sunday, February 20, 2011

:)

I got back in town Tuesday night. My flight was delayed in D.C. because of a computer issue on the Boeing 757's, so all the flights were grounded. Luckily, the crew flying to Orlando acted quickly and got a spare 767 and was able to make the flight safely and without too bad of a delay. I am so thankful I didn't have to spend the night in D.C., not that I would mind being there (on the contrary) but after being gone so long I just wanted to see my family and get home. Both United flights, the Rome - D.C. leg and the D.C-Orlando leg were very comfortable and pleasant. I am glad they are going to be merging with Continental and looking forward to joining their combined frequent flier program!


Since being back I have been so full of energy. That energy stems from this consistent feeling of happiness. Everyone keeps saying how 'refreshed' and 'happy' I look and its totally true, this trip made me feel so amazing. I am happier than I've ever been, truly happy all the time for no one external reason. I just graduated UCF, made Dean's List the last 4 semesters, already got the GRE out of the way, just got back from the most incredible place in the world, South Africa, and fulfilled my need to go to Italy. There are so many things to be thankful for, and I am going to make every effort to make sure I am as gracious as possible. Being away from my typical lifestyle here has given me a new appreciation for this life. There are so many little things, things we  consider "necessities," but that so many people do without. It just makes me cautious to ever complain, because small, stupid problems are now so trivial. I just do not care to complain or lament any less than ideal circumstance anymore, and what point is there anyway?

All I can see is forward. I am so excited about the places I'm applying for graduate school. One of the schools is Cape Town University because I want to go back to South Africa as soon as possible. I'm so excited to go to Chicago this summer and hopefully visit some of my other volunteer friends in Phili and Canada. I'm also trying to coordinate some sort of Caribbean or Mexico/Central Am. getaway this summer. Mexico calls to my heart but anywhere in "Latin America" will do. Now that I'm out of school I'm going to start really focusing on my Spanish, currently I'm looking into a tutor or a weekly class to go to. I'm looking for a place to volunteer one or two days a week, hopefully working in the filed of education with under-privileged students.

Everyday since I've gotten back I wake up with a smile on my face. And its completely genuine. I feel confident, beaming with happiness and positivity, and a strong desire to help other people. Africa for Life! lol.

ac


*last post until my next trip...dates are all up in the air at the moment, but thank you for reading, everyone! :)

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