Preliminary Packing

239 days, 13 hours, 23 minutes until I head off on my adventure.
I know it seems a little early to think about packing, but I realized that I need to start a collections area, so that I don't forget those little important things...you know, like a passport, Bible, shot records, dramamine, etc.
I wouldn't be thinking about this yet, but last week I went to our church's mission co-mission meeting.  Many people there have been to Africa before.  One woman recently returned, and was sharing her stories.  As she told her stories, she spoke about the roads, the wildlife, and the incredible people.  I was very excited, but then reality hit.  I was reminded about the roads in Africa...and the "pot-holes" which are more like craters.  Last time I was in Africa was in 2000.  As I listened to Sonya talk, I realized that I'm not 21 anymore, and that I easily get car sick, seasick, basically any kind of sick.  I was also reminded about when I tried to buy dramamine last time I was overseas, and that was a first world country.  So, I decided that I should start collecting dramamine now, because I know I'm going to need it!  So, I have created a space in my house for Africa collections.
I will be taking two suitcases with me.  One for Village of Hope, and one for me.  As the time gets closer, I will let you know what I'm collecting for VOH, in case anyone wants to donate.  As for now, if you have any dramamine laying around that you're not going to use, I'm starting a collection!
I'm trying to think of those other random little things, so that I can start collecting now.  I know it's weird, but I'm already having nightmares about forgetting things.  Ideas of what I need to take?  Let me know!
It seems so far away, yet January is already almost over...time flies!
This trip is seeming so unreal.  I know I already have my plane ticket, but all I have been thinking lately is, "is this trip REALLY going to happen?"  only God knows!