Le premier

So I'm going to France. I leave in about 10 hours. A lot of people told me I shouldn't go to bed tonight so that I can sleep on the plane tomorrow. HENCE, I decided to reinterpret this picture of an American boy scout. Why? Because it represents why I'm going abroad. We clearly know the boy on the left is American. Because he has an American flag patch on his tricep. What you may not notice is that the man on the right is FRENCH. And they are shaking hands in comraderie, peace, love, and joy. I will be that handshake when I go to France. I aspire to be that handshake. I will come from les Etats-Unis, bringing the enthusiasm and friendliness of a boy scout. I hope the French are warm enough to offer their hand just like this man.

I have no idea what to expect. I don't know if I'll even keep using this blog thing. I mean, if life gets in the way of me updating my blog... I apologize. But I'm not going to let technology overtake my life. I'm not a robot. Anymore.

I am very worried about pronouncing the french "r." It's tricky. I'm excited about the food. Although I know my French skills are far from par, I haven't been too nervous about communicating. I feel like I'll be able to make do with my limited vocabulary plus hand motions plus dramatic acting sequences. Then again, I might be underestimating my own comfort with making a French ass of myself. We shall see. I'm basically just really excited about what I'm sure will eventually become the little things I'll love -- walking around Angers, maybe riding a bike, just being in a completely different culture. I've been waiting 6 weeks. I am ready.

I don't know how I feel about blogging.

However, I would like to thank everyone who helped give me an absolutely fabulous going away present! I don't really know who many of you are, but God does... and he loves you. Almost as much as me. No but seriously... you guys are awesome. And the love will be returned seven-fold.