So, we leave a month from today. Crazy. I'm excited, but at the same time worried. The past week has put into perspective how quickly life can be changed, and because of that I've become a little un-excited about going "down south."
Don't take for granted the times you have with loved ones. It's easy to say "oh I'll call them back tomorrow, I don't feel like it right now," (and we all know how stellar I am at returning phone calls...). But when you want to call that person back and they're not there, you'll realize how important it is to return those phone calls, as hard as it may be, and as tired as you may be. Sometimes death can be a huge suprise, but it can also, in an odd way, be a blessing that teaches you what is important and should take priority in your life.
So, in 31 days I leave for 17 days to make "pilgrimage" of sorts back down to Ecuador and Peru. As much as I want to stay and not miss out on things here, I know that I will need even more to go and do this for myself. Forget that it's costing a lot more than what we originally budgeted. I need to tell myself what I've been telling Michael all along: "I promise it's worth it!" Just got to get down 5 more pounds, otherwise I will be a "Dead Woman" on that Pass... :)