It's less than two months until I depart for Kosovo, and I am getting quite excited. There is so much to do, and literally so little time. I have yet to be medically cleared due to incorrect tests being taken and its a little nerve wrecking knowing I may be delayed as a result of this, but I am optimistic I will be cleared and officially on the list for departure. I have been told that medical clearance is the longest and most annoying part of the entire Peace Corps process and that was NOT a lie. I feel like I have been pricked and stuck and had to give urine for everything imaginable (and even the unknown). It is more difficult when you add in the fact I am still under my parents insurance (thanks President Obama for that money-saver!) but have to travel out of state to see the doctor *ques in scheduling and work conflicts*. Despite all the issues with traveling at LEAST once a month 8 hours for doctor visits, I will say that the Peace Corps nursing staff is awesome at timely message responses and explanations - even when you think a one to two day wait time is an eternity! So in the mean time I am left to stalk my email awaiting that precious moment when I see the - You're Medically cleared - message come streaming through.
In other life areas, my ever shrinking (if not already filled) schedule has prompted me to start packing for Kosova (I can't get enough of typing/saying that) and getting last minute things in order. It's so crazy trying to create a packing list and making sure I have everything I need beyond what is listed in the Welcome Pack Peace Corps (PC) sends you upon accepting your invitation. Luckily, some of the current volunteers in Kosovo (K1 - the first group to serve in the country) have written down some recommendations as far as what to pack and info on what clothing styles are like in Kosova. My biggest hurdle as of yet is staying at my level of "fashion and comfort" while being able to pack.... *ahem* lightly (I am already cringing the thought of a minute shoe option). I am a shoe addict - I probably have at lest 60 pairs of shoes and that might be on the low end, so shoe versatility is something I will greatly miss in my wardrobe options. I will post a packing list and pictures of what I brought once I am packed.
I have decided I want to invest in a good travel bag, but may also need a suitcase... decisions decisions... I just need to get the most space for my buck and compression bags will be a MUST! Hopefully Everything will work in my favor. Let the countdown continue....
