The Beginning

A map of my projected location, in case you are planning on riding your bike over for a visit.

a dog.

Here we are folks! This adventure of mine has finally begun. I am currently on my first leg of travel, with two overnight flights gloriously awaiting me in the next two days. I'm not a particularly talented writer, so set your bar low and hold on tight as I'll be periodically updating this blog whilst volunteering in Namibia this summer; keeping all interested parties* up to date on this much anticipated trip of mine.

*Interested parties; meaning you are not obligated to continue reading. Be free with your day unless otherwise inclined to keep up with me. (wink) 

To sum up what the heck I'm talking about, I am on my way to a wildlife reservation smack dab in the middle of Namibia, Africa. I will be volunteering at Harnas Wildlife Foundation for the next 6 weeks of my summer, engaging in any and all forms of volunteer service to learn, explore, and discover all things Africa. I will be working under a wildlife veterinarian to assist in any form of medical care for injured or orphaned wildlife, alongside other volunteers from around the world. I will also assist in daily care and maintenance of the property, including care of all inhabiting God's creatures (Lions - Leopards - Cheetahs - Caracals - African wild dogs - Giraffes- etc. etc. etc.) Conservation and protection of animals is the number one priority at Harnas and as such has established a system to intervene when animal lives are threatened through human action or interference. Pretty neat. Right up my alley. 

So here I go, romantically running into the sunset with a ready heart and a full suitcase. I've been dreaming about an opportunity like this as long as I can remember, so for it to be in literal motion is unreal to me. I am passionate about serving, traveling, experiencing, and learning, so this could quite possibly be the trip of a lifetime-- but we'll just have to wait and see....dramatic pause....

I'll post pictures and keep this updated when I have time and internet. In the meantime, I encourage all of you to jump into the cold water and go after something you've been wanting. There's a world out there- don't waste the moments God gave ya wondering what it would be like, go find out for yourself. 

xoxo, 
Laura