Going on an Adventure

I'm leaving for Belize in the morning and it still seems a little unreal. Recently it has hit me just how much of an adventure this is going to be. Two weeks on an archaeological dig focused on the Maya - a dream come true in itself. Then I'm spending an extra four days in the country to just explore. How can this be my life?? I'm so excited!

I have always loved the notion of adventuring -- one of my favorite books when I was little was "We're Going on a Bear Hunt," which I would act out in our basement. But for some reason, until just the other day, I hadn't realized how great of an adventure this trip is going to be. Don't get me wrong, I was so looking forward to the archaeology part of it, but that's all I was focusing on. Now making last minute purchases for hiking boots, mosquito nets, rain ponchos, and so on, it has finally dawned on me. This is going to be EPIC.

Belize is mostly jungle. There's going to be actual wilderness nearby. With jungle animals. Like jaguars. And MONKEYS. You don't even understand how excited I am to see some monkeys. It's always been a dream of mine to visit the rainforest and this is me coming at least close to achieving that.

Yet at the same time, a part of me is a little terrified for this trip. Those of you who know me know that one of my biggest fears is trying new things. So you can imagine how I may be a little anxious. Of course while I have studied abroad before, I have a feeling this is going to be a slightly different experience than Paris...

But my excitement definitely outweighs my nervousness. I am so so looking forward to this adventure and all the new experiences it will bring. So if you'd like, keep an eye out for posts from me while I'm there. No promises as to how often I'll be able to upload though...