No new visa news will come until Monday when the Embassy opens again…but, on the bright side, I’ve got plenty of time to make sure that I’m prepared. Overly prepared, one could say. Everything is packed and has been double checked. I read Carson’s post about being “unprepared” and it inspired me to leave well enough alone and to zip up the suitcase and leave it in the hallway, ready to grab and go when the moment comes. The only item that I hesitate to put into it’s designated suitcase spot is the food I’ve purchased…I’ve definitely been breaking in to the chocolate covered almonds because, well, yummy.

In addition to having extra packing time, I’ve been able to think a bit about what a privilege travel is. I expect the visa process to be quick and to go smoothly because travel has always been relatively smooth and accessible. I can see how I’ve taken that for granted. The opportunity to go on this trip is an incredible one in the first place and the bumps in the road need to be taken in stride and put into perspective.

Looking forward to Monday and in the meantime I’m enjoying the updates I’m getting from the group and I’m appreciating the cooler Oregon weather before entering the sweltering Ghana landscape.