welcome to my blog!

Hey guys!  So, this is my new blog, made specially for your viewing pleasure.  I actually didn't plan on keeping a blog until just a few days ago, when it dawned on me that this is a really good alternative to re-writing the same email over and over again every time i want to update everyone.  At first i felt like this would be too impersonal for keeping friends and family up to date with my New Zealand adventures but then i realized that it is better that i can keep informed everyone who wants to be updated, and can be detailed and pretty frequent about my posts.

All that being said, t-minus 2 weeks 3 days and some odd hours until official departure from Pittsburgh!  This break has gone by really quickly, even considering the fact that i am home about a month longer than everyone else.  I've got a few odds and ends to take care of before i head out but for the most part i am set - i have my bank account figured out, flights booked, courses selected, and paperwork submitted.  And soon the packing will begin....dun dun dun (everyone in my life thinks I'm going to have a serious meltdown.  I have a little more faith in my ability to be ok with not bringing every pair of shoes i own).

As i get ready to leave the country I ask for you to keep me in your thoughts and prayers.  Stay tuned for interesting facts about New Zealand!

^ A photo of Mount Cook ^
New Zealand's tallest mountain and part of the Southern Alps