A Little Down-Time

Writing from my parents' house in Zortman, Montana this morning, where it is a lovely 16 degrees and snowing.  Today's high in Hangzhou is 65.  Well, not actually today's high, more like tomorrow's because it is already midnight there.  The time difference is still crazy to me.

But back to Zortman.  I am spending a few days here with my parents to have a little mental break before I fly out.  Contrary to my family (especially my dad), I still am not very nervous about the trip.  It is hard to see my family so worried over something I am doing, but this trip is something I need to do for me.  I want to be able to tell my future students that it is ok to go out and try new things even if it is scary at first.  And that is what this trip is going to be to me: a learning experience that will push my out of my comfort zone.  It can be scary, but what is life staying comfortable all the time?  I found an Anthony Bourdain quote that sums up why I am going on this adventure:

I am 21.... so I am getting a head start.  Four days until departure.