Food and Emotions

With exactly one week until I leave Texas, I felt like this was a good time to address questions people have asked regarding my departure.  I've received a lot of questions along the lines of food, culture shock, and nerves/fear.  Although I cannot be certain of any of these situations prior to getting to country, I have my opinions and expectations.

As far as food, Namibia is a country that loves their meat.  And as a Texas girl, I like the way they think!  Although my allergies and dietary restrictions will be difficult, I'm hoping and planning to consume a lot of meat, vegetables (no grains), a plethora of potatoes, eggs, and fruit, fruit, fruit!  If I am able to find some of these things plus peanut butter, my year will be as easy as pie.  I am also packing as many Lara Bars that will fit in my bags.  Hint: if you ever want to send me a care package, shoot for peanut butter and Lara Bars.

When it comes to culture shock, I am a girl who has seen much of the world at a young age.  Having lived in Saudi, studied in Rome, and lived in Texas for more than 10 years, I have been exposed to different cultures and walks of life.  I find excitement and beauty in learning about others.  Whether it be their holidays/festivities, foods, or just the way they think, I believe there is so much to take away from each individual person and culture.  I honestly think that reverse culture shock is something I experience more frequently than culture shock.  Upon returning home to America, I often find myself comparing and analyzing all of the different countries I've visited.

Lastly, fear and nerves.  I would be lying if I said I was not feeling these emotions.  However, they are overshadowed by eagerness, excitement, and a little bit of sadness.  Considering I'm a girl who cries during commercials, I have surprisingly enough only allowed myself one breakdown so far, which is pretty impressive.  With that being said, last night I said my year-long goodbyes to a couple of friends.  That was difficult because it reminded me of all of the great things I will be missing out on in the upcoming year.  In 2013, three beautiful friends will marry men they love, and a godly couple who I admire and have enjoyed watching grow together, will give birth to their first baby, a beautiful little girl.  Those things are hard to think about.  Hard to fathom I won't be in Texas to watch them in all of their happiness, and be a part of the biggest days in their lives.  Now that I've brought the mood down, I must say, God has continually provided blessings and miracles throughout the beginning phases of this experience.  Whether it be through random conversations, the girls I've already met via Facebook, or prayers from y'all, I am constantly feeling the love and support from God and my family and friends!

With all of my love,
T

P.S. For those that have read all of the way through my last few entries, thank you.  I promise not every blog will be this long!