It's Saturday afternoon, and I'm home from Madison and back in La Crosse. Yesterday was my last day at Lindbergh Elementary School, where I've spent nearly the past two years of my life, including both of the summers I spent in Madison. It was a great last day, and I'm so glad I've gotten to know the many people I have at Lindbergh. I was sad to see everyone go, but I already can't wait to come back and visit in 2010.

I've had such a great time being a part of the school community there, and I will take the many memories I've made with me to Ghana. I will also be bringing lots of pictures from the past couple of years to share with the students and children I will meet there. As of now, I hope to volunteer in an elementary or primary school, or orphanage while in Ghana. I know I will meet many great children and students, but I won't forget about the wonderful people I've met at Lindbergh. I also know that you (kids especially), will be the focus of many conversations I will have with the people of Ghana.

In the next four days I'm going to be organizing, packing, and saying goodbye to everyone that I won't see until Christmas. Nervousness, fear, excitement, and sadness have all been a part of the past week, but I know this will be something amazing.