T-Minus One Month

Well, I figured that a "one-month-until-I-leave" post would be a good way to start my blog. I'm starting to get simultaneously really nervous and really excited for my four-month stay in Granada.

The preparation process for studying abroad was pretty intense, which does give me a little bit of hope that I'm responsible and mature enough to be left in a foreign country. I did have to have Betsy text message me to let me know when everything was (meetings, paperwork deadlines...), but I've gotten pretty good at this whole thing over the course of the past two semesters.

Now comes the fun part-- actually getting ready for my trip. The idea of packing for four months is pretty daunting, but hopefully I'll be able to do it over the course of winter break.

I did just have a huge victory and figured out how to skype. For anyone who doesn't know, skype is a free service that is basically a computer-to-computer phone and it's FREE international calling (sweet). Soooo if anyone is interested in downloading skype to talk to me while I'm gone, go to www.skype.com and follow the instructions to download it. You need a headset to talk (or you can use it as a kind of instant-message deal), but you can get them for really cheap at skype.com or you can pick one up at Target or Best Buy (although I do think they are cheaper online). Also, U of I students can apparently get them at the Study Abroad Office (in the International Studies Building on Fifth between Chalmers and Daniel), but I've never actually seen them there. I also get really flustered and afraid to ask where they are, so if you have the courage, go for it. I'd love to talk to everyone while I'm away :-) I'll also be getting a webcam so I can videochat (also through skype), but more details will follow on that when I figure that all out.

Well, here we are. I feel like these 29 days are going to fly by.