It has been a long but good summer, working a few different jobs, trying to get money for my trip abroad. I appreciate everyone's donations and assure you that it will be put to good use in panama, whether it be towards my trip or for traveling in Panama. I am so excited but also feeling nervous, which I think is regular. Today my older brother left for college and I found myself trying to grip the emotional realization that I will not see him for another 6 months nor will I spend holiday's with him. I think that this will happen many times over when I am packing and seeing some friends for the last time for a while. It has kept me very stand backish and almost not wanting to have to face goodbye with some of my friends, but its all becoming so real and there's no easy way of saying goodbye. I dont even know what it will be like saying goodbye to my mom, who IS the reason I am able to take this adventure. She was always there for support, for good ideas, helping me with bake sales, paper work, and just being excited with me for my trip! I will miss my parents terribly and my dad for helping too with this all and providing me with a place to work but I know that I will gain so much independence out of this trip and be so culturally inclined. I am so anxious to find out where I will be staying and I cannot wait to look out the window to the pilot telling us we are finally in Panama City! It's all so emotional, I cannot wait to hear the music and see the dancing and the friendly people. I am excited yet I feel as if I will be crying saying goodbye to everything and everyone. My dogs, my grandma who I love so much, my brothers and parents, my friends, my room, my bed, my piano. Thats another thing I am very very very very nervous about. I need a piano ! I play everyday and I cannot bring my heavy piano with me. I pray and pray there will be one at home or in the school or something!! Well, I will keep everyone updated, although im pretty sure my mom is the only one who reads these hahaha. I CANT WAIT