This is my first blog entry as a Peace Corps invitee, sitting in my apartment in Southern California with papers, boxes, luggage, and books strewn about the room. I leave California-- after four years here -- in [twentysomething] days. I hope I read back on this in a few months, or in a couple years, and remember how bittersweet this time in my life was. Family and friends always rise to occasions like weddings and funerals, of course, but now I know that they have risen to this occasion despite the fact that we will be apart for the next 27 months. They have offered their time, encouragement, comfort, and conversation. I am so grateful for the overwhelming support I've received.

I'm listening to the country music station, now, and singing along with Faith, Trisha, Carrie, Kenny. One of the many tips I've picked up in the last few months was, If you want to hear country music in the next two years, bring it with you because you can't get it in Macedonia. I can't remember where I read that.- some blog, booklet, or email. I'm considering downloading some songs that I don't necessarily even like just to have them on hand in case of a down-home hankering. Alan Jackson, Shania Twain, maybe even some Keith Urban, just to have them on hand.

I wonder what else about this Saturday is different from a lazy Saturday in Macedonia? Surely I won't be typing a blog at home- or will I? Surely I won't sleep until 11 am and then drive (!) to buy my morning coffee. Will I still drink coffee? Will I still call and text message friends as easily as I do now- talking to the same friends and family, or different?

I'm excited for all the possibilities, giddy with love for this home I'll soon be leaving, and wistful about realities that will soon becoming memories.