Kiss me and smile for me

20 minutes before I leave for Nashville, and a little over 9 hours before I'm on the plane that takes me out of the country. Its just a little amazing to think about. I never knew that I could fit so many things into a suitcase, or the creative way in which I can fit even more things. For example, my father is putting some of my diabetic supplies inside my shoes in order to give us more space! It looks like I'll be about 2-4 pounds over the limit, but I guess I can live with that. I'm excited to be leaving so that I can meet my host family, the other students, and all those Brazilian kids. :o) My parents, granparents and aunt and uncle have given me so many names, numbers and addresses of people I can call while I'm in Brasil. It's nice to know that there is a complete stranger who has been volunteered to help me out if I need anything. :o)
What more is there to say? I'm remembering late night talks with Kristy, dinners with the roomies, dealing with Fr Tim, sticking pieces of tissue paper in between chicken wire, the way my body feels when I'm swinging a sword, the moves I'm supposed to be making in Sil Muy Fa, the low lights and crowds of the bar, chats in Barnes and Noble with my sister, planning for the future, and one last long hug goodbye.
But I"m looking forward to learning a new language, being in the warm weather, and trying things I've never tried before.
Looks like I'm outta here! I miss everyone already!