In a Weeks Time-
With only seven days until orientation, I must admit I'm quite nervous. All of my preparation feels like it's paying off, yet there is still so much to do. When I drive up to the hotel on Tuesday, I'm sure there will be many tears on my behalf. Luckily I do look forward to the celebration I'm holding this Saturday. I hope many people come to support me in my abroad travels. It's amazing and still so new, "I'm studying abroad, I can't believe it"; Well, I can, it's just, wow.
I'm excited to be hosting the celebration at ECC's Pump House on the Anacostia. A nice comfy building with a rustic style interior and beautiful waterfront views. Thanks to the State Department, CBYX, and AFS, I will be spending a year abroad. My father, David W. Smith, my mother, Denise Pulliam-Holliday, and I host the celebration. There will be refreshments, music, and an opportunity for esteemed guests to speak. I'm excited and plan to converse with my guest and thank my congressional representative.
Packing and Gifts-
With seven days left, my suitcase isn't packed and ready to go. I have set a goal to be packed by Friday and ready to go by Sunday. At least I'm planning, "ya gotta take it slow, nice and calm." There's no need for a rush; I want to enjoy this wonderful process. The hardest part would be getting host gifts, for me at least. So far, I figured, "Hey, I'll buy matching bracelets for my host sisters and me." Not any ol' bracelets, bracelets that have your horoscope sign. America is big on Horoscope signs, and I figured it'd be a cool way of sharing a piece of culture. I thought a baseball and catcher's mitt would be a cool gift (I could try and get it autographed by a Nationals Player). Baseball, the all-American sport, a nice game of catch on a nice evening, perfect for bounding, right! I feel I have to give the best I can to show my appreciation. But it will go past getting "gifts." I will try hard to learn their culture and accept the opportunity with arms wide open! I'm determined to be a great host student!
Don't forget to check back here for more updates! I look forward to my trip abroad. Want to go abroad? Check out AFS at afsusa.org. Also, support me the best you can by donating here.
Celebration Awaits!
