Chicago is one town that won't let you down -Frank Sinatra

It is crazy to think that it has been four days since I left North Carolina. Saying goodbye was hard, and getting the extra security check because of my one-way ticket was mildly entertaining. I was happy to see two familiar faces at the gate, Jamie, a guy from Chapel Hill (who shares my love for Carolina basketball) and Nora from Goldsboro who will be serving in Ghana. We were soon joined by Dave, who will be serving in Peru with Jamie. During the wait for our 30 minute late flight we discussed leaving North Carolina, and I realized the longest I have been out of the state was the 2 1/2 weeks I spent in Europe last Christmas. It was an interesting experience looking out the window as the plane took off, knowing I won't be back for a year.

Chicago has been an exhausting, wonderful experience. It has been good to reconnect with people I spent only one short weekend with. As we waited for the bus at the airport, it felt like I was coming home to long time friends, although we had only really spent three days together in Louisville. I guess when you're thrown into a situation like this, people you are mildly aquanted with quickly become your good friends and support system.

Our first night, Lauren, Alison, and I (my future housemates in Belfast) sat up in my room laughing until our stomachs hurt. We all knew as we fell asleep that first night that we are going to have too much fun at 31 Thorndale Ave. The days are filled with lots of bible studies, worships, and talks about mission, globalization, and overseas experiences. I have struggled to stay awake through some, danced an Indian dance, and sang my favorite Ghanian song. We have heard stories from past YAVs and met with our sites to ask quetions and just spend some time together.

Monday was Lauren's birthday! About 30 of the Presbyterian YAV's (there are Lutherans here too...) went to a dump of a bar and had a great night. One, I have never seen so many Presbyterians at a bar together. Two, Lauren had an amazing birthday and yet again our bellys hurt with laughter. As Jamie put it, we are going to be trouble together. Last night was our evening free, so we walked to Lake Michigan, which may as well be an ocean, got ice cream- i was craving strawberry with graham crackers, and had a low key night.

As the days pass slowly, we are all anxiously awaiting getting to our countries. The old friends I greated at the airport have now become even better friends. It is sad and exciting to think we will all span the globe in a matter of days. However, I have a promised visit from Guatamala (Leslie) and incoming email updates from Ghana (Nora) and Kenya (Lauren, Taryn). As well as a trip to visit Africa.

I look forward to sending you news from Belfast. Until then, take care of you.