"A picture is worth a thousand words....

Today as we began our journey to the Eastern Cape, we had the opportunity to visit and drive through some communities, which could also be known as “slums.” After the group visited a local youth center we were walking back on the street and I was just observing the atmosphere as I had my camera around my neck. Three little boys walking down the street noticed and instantly run up to me full of excitement because I had a camera.

After I took a picture of them they wanted to use the camera. Each boy was so eager to get his hands on that camera and were even more ecstatic when they could see the result of the image they captured. I couldn’t get there hands off of it.

The short encounter was one of the best experiences I have had so far. Something so simple as to taking a picture, and yet with the excitement that filled the air, I could have sat there for hours with those boys showing them how to and letting them take pictures. Those simple moments are the ones that I am truly thankful for and is something I will never forget.

“Maybe I’m just a girl on a mission, but I’m ready to fly……”

It was always a dream of mine to travel to Africa. But I never thought it would happen when I least expected it. Ever since I found out that studying abroad in South Africa for my spring semester was my destiny, I kept counting down the days. Now it’s finally here, and I truly can’t believe it. For months, I told myself I was going, and now actually going is on my fingertips. I leave tomorrow.

After the past two weeks of preparing and packing the stress has definitely kicked in. For some reason I just can’t get my bag to be 50 pounds, no matter how much stuff I take out or with the help of Annelise, re-arrange it. It’s now at 55 pounds. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see my fate tomorrow at the airport. Hopefully they’ll show mercy.

Tomorrow I begin my journey of a lifetime, and after a full day of preparing,it really has hit me. I cannot believe I am really getting on a plane tomorrow for South Africa. I know this journey will be the experience of a lifetime and I am ready for it to begin.

Until next time,
Lexi