T-Minus Twelve Hours

My last day of work was last Friday and I received a very nice send off from my co-workers. (Thanks to all.) Of course, I was back in the office on Monday, so no one was able to actually get rid of me that fast! Don't worry though; I really am gone now. Well, for the month at least.

I just returned from the big turkey fest at my mom's house and am burning up with a fever and my throat feels absolutely raw. I can't wait to get on the plane tomorrow. Worse, I feel sorry for the schmuck that has to sit next to me. However bad I feel, I wouldn't have missed Thanksgiving for anything. I love my family so much and I'm going to super miss all of them while I'm gone. Just as an FYI to the person whose name I picked for the Christmas thing is getting his or her book in Spanish. So, everyone should start brushing up.

I finished packing last night, but for a few items I have to shove in there last minute (like the water purification system my mom bought me. Thanks Mom!). Thanks to my packing list, I think I have everything that I need. Really, as long as I have my iPod, sneakers and headphones, I'll be a happy girl and those three things are going in my carry on.

I spent the last few days running around, seeing friends and family and picking up all those last minute items that really seem to add up. I did manage to squeeze in some fun and I had a great time at dinner on Saturday night w/ some of my favorite people ever. The six of them, plus alcohol and Indian food...what could be better? According to Simon, we had a super authentic experience since the service sucked and he says this is a true sign of authentic Indian food. Thanks for the clarification Simon.

I ran out yesterday to get gifts for my host family, about whom I know almost nothing but their sexes and ages. However, it's the thought that counts and I do hope that they like what I've picked out for them. I consider it a bribe to not feed me cow stomach or other delicacies so it was definitely money well spent!

I hope everyone sends me good energy to get better, to be safe and to return home with lots of good stories.

Hasta luego todos!