I started packing my suitcases on Sunday. That’s 8 days before departure time. Now I have less than a week. I bet you couldn’t guess that I have been counting down the days. Since the roster list for the School for Field Studies participants went out, I have been getting enthusiastic emails from my soon-to-be classmates. Those who do have “facebook” look awesome. My favorite profile was Meredith’s because she’s holding an ity bity baby snapping turtle. Though big snappers scare me, that one is so cute! It will be really refreshing to be surrounded by people who love to explore under rocks, listen to bird calls, name tree species, and play with bugs.

I’ve been living in a state of nervous anticipation the past couple weeks. Hopefully, it will fade away when I finally get there (Taylor in Tokyo said hers did – Check out her story at littleladyluck .) To feel a little bit like I’m already there I decided to try out the 100% biodegradable soap from Trader Joes that I’ll be using for the next semester. It doesn’t lather quite as well as my usual Herbal Essence and my hair is left a little tangled. But it smells amazing! The shampoo/conditioner/body wash is called “Refresh.” You’ll laugh when you hear the ingredients list: orange, grapefruit, tangerine, and lemon peel, as well as Chamomile, Vitamin B-5, sage, yarrow, and jojoba oil. Who needs multivitamins when you have cosmetics! The 100% biodegradable pear soap is made with olive oil, aloe vera, and Vitamins A and E. Now I smell like a fruit salad. Mmmmm…fruit salad. I think I’m now hooked on biodegradable cosmetics! Despite being an educated college student, I’m seriously tempted to taste them. Then a horrible thought crosses my mind; if I smell like a fruit salad, there may be some other species who consider me an all you can eat buffet! Will the Costa Rican insects be more attracted to the smell of sweet fruit or to the smell of grungy college students? I’m sure that I’ll be able to answer this question by May.

The current major question is how to fit everything into two suitcases and a carry-on bag? My hip waders are rather large, as is my scuba gear. And now I have a solar water heater too. (Thank you, Karin, for reading my blog and getting me one as a going away present!) Maybe I should have my scuba gear mailed down or I could have my parents bring it during spring break. I’m so excited that they may be coming down to see me. Other than Canada, they haven’t left the country since before I was born. They are the wonderful kind of parents who work to give everything to their kids instead of thinking about themselves. I love you, Mom and Dad!

My poor mother has even put up with the mess I’ve made with all my gear that I have had laying around the house for weeks. Check out my messy room and major packing obstacle in the photo. I guess Fat Willy doesn’t want me to leave or he wants to come with me. I don’t think that the toucans and macaws would appreciate it though!