Africa: Before It All Begins...

The adventure to Africa starts NOW. I somehow managed to get everything needed for 12 days out of the country (including a feather pillow for the flight) into one small carry on suitcase and backpack.

I'm not sure when I booked this trip that I truly knew what I was getting myself into. The amount of prep that has gone into it has been unlike anything I've ever navigated. Vaccines, pills, Visas...not to mention finding the perfect safari hat + pants and long-sleeve outfits that you're comfortable wearing in 100 degree weather out in the bush. Oh yes, then pre-treating all of those items with bug repellent. Alas, we've made it. Shoutout to my mom for her patient support, comic-relief and snack preparation the last few days. 10/10 recommend everyone finding themselves a Susan Oare.

Chicago bound this afternoon. We depart @ 6AM tomorrow morning. 23.5 hours of travel on the way out. Chicago --> Toronto --> Addis Ababa --> Victoria Falls. Let's gooooo.

See you on the other side of the world. Literally.