Destination: Africa!

In just a few hours i will be taking off for Africa. The excitement is quite overwhelming. The wonderful thing about traveling is that you learn so much as the world brightens in your mind, like a long dark shadow suddenly illuminated to reveal the treasures of a place. It's one thing to see a country or a city on a map, but to walk through it, taste the air, hear the bustle of life, see the people and listen to their language - it is humbling, it is an honor.

In the past several days i have been offered numerous gems of wisdom and pearls of knowledge from friends and family. Most simply tell me to "Be careful, and come back safe." I appreciate the sentiment. It's nice to hear, but not especially useful. You know, i do PLAN on coming back safe after all! The absolute best practical advice i've received comes from my Uncle Kurt:

"...if someone in khakis suddenly hands you an AK-47 you might want to check your agenda before accepting it."

Excellent point - I'll be certain to keep that one in mind!

Keep checking back every few days cause if there is electricity AND internet and i have a few minutes between climbing mountains and running from lions i will post updates.

My friend Jen was kind enough to remind me what i'll look like to the lions in Tanzania. Below is the cover of the "Good luck and try not to be eaten while in Africa!" card she gave me. Thanks Jen!