Friday, December 15, 2006

Last day, first day


My final day as a Volunteer Program Specialist for Community PedsCare was on Friday. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have had with the program. First as a volunteer for a few years and then in a full time position, it was an honor to work with the children, families and staff. Leaving the office at 5:00 was surprisingly difficult. My final act as a VPS was to visit the hospital to say goodbye to a patient that I had worked with. She has taught me so much about making things happen for yourself. She inspires me to take advantage of every day.
On that note, Friday concluded a phase of my life, although a 9-5 phase, it was still a really great phase. What begins today is my preparation for Peace Corps service. In 8 weeks I will travel to the Dominican Republic! From now until February 13, I will soak up quality time with my family and friends.
If you have a minute and are curious, check out http://www.peacecorps.gov/ for answers to FAQ's. I'll also answer a few here:
How Long? 3 months of training, plus 2 years.
When? I leave for staging on February 13, 2007, will be in the DR by Feb. 15.
Why? Always wanted to live in another country, experience another culture, master another language. Plus I'm not so sure about a desk job.
Why the DR? Peace Corps placed me and I'm thrilled because I had asked for either a Spanish-speaking country or an island ... I got both!
What will you do? Some type of environmental education. It will be more defined once I'm there. Stay tuned to the blog to see how it unfolds.
Where will you live? With a host family for the first 3 months, after that, your guess is as good as mine.
Are you excited? Um... YES!