Saying Goodbyes can be tough....

So, on Saturday, October 21st my family threw a big going away party for me. It was so awesome to see my favorite, most special, and loved people all under one roof. The sun was shining bright, it was nice and cool in the shade, and everyone seemed to enjoy the great food, drinks, and conversation. I attempted to breifly express my gratitude to everyone present, but sometimes it is hard for me to express how I feel on the spot. I feel so blessed to have such amazing people in my life. My parents, sister, extended family, and best friends are the most amazing and supportive people I know. I am so close to the people in my life and for them to not only respect my choice of disappearing for two years, but to completely support me, and cheer me on is pretty remarkable. It takes courage to let someone close to you leave...I cannot imagine how I would feel if the tables were turned. My mom reminded me of the plain and simple truth...those staying behind miss the person abroad, more. This is nothing personal, but simply because the person leaving is off to experience all things new; every day will be a new adventure and will be full of excitement. While home will remain more or less the same...minus one. Anyway, I suppose what I am trying to say, is that I feel so fortunate to have such couragous parents, family and friends. I love you all. I will miss everyone more than I even know right now.

During the party I discussed with many people my fear of not really making a difference; not leaving behind any tangible change; not inspiring those I am working with...basically failing. My Aunt Linda kept saying, "you cannot fail." I nodded my head in agreement, but only today has it really sunk in what she meant by that: My being in Namibia, showing that I care, represents a belief in these people. My future community will know that there are people that want better for them, people that believe in their success, people that value their individual strenghts and talents. I now realize that I really cannot fail...my presence is a success all on it's own. It symbolizes hope and sometimes that is all a person or a people needs.

Sunday was rough. I think after saying so many final goodbyes... it is really starting to hit me that I am leaving...and soon! I had myself a good cry today and I feel completely refreshed...it's weird how sometimes all you need to do is just cry...get it out...and you're good to go.

Pictures posted here are proof of a good time had by all. These are only some of the pictures from my camera...so I will post some other great family pictures really soon!

me and dad

greg, me, and meg

me and mom choppin' veggies

little squishy babies

life long friends

more life long friends

roasting some marshmellows....yummy.

Me and nesser-bean




Jason, Mom, Ronn

sweet...

ah-yeah-ya

The family

me, meg, and our beautiful aunts

The WHOLE family

The Minters

The Martins

My awesome cake!

Getting toasty by the fire...

passing time