Making a list, and checking it twice

If you've managed to find me, welcome! I'm heading to Africa in less than 24 hrs for a 6-week pediatric rotation. And thus begins the blogging...

In the midst of the holiday season, I've been making lists and checking them twice. Had a wonderful holiday with my family and drove back today to pack. I've managed to fit everything in a small luggage bag and a backpack. There is everything from binoculars and a safari hat to my stethoscope. I'm trying to pack as much in as little space as possible because when we arrive we are going to try to fit 5 people in a small rental car (yikes!).

My flight leaves tomorrow night and lands in France where we (4 of us) have a 12hr layover. Going to try and have hot chocolate and a croissant, which I've been told are to die for. Then we head for Jo'burg where our 5th member is waiting with a rental car for Kruger National Park.

I'll try to answer questions on here if you e-mail me or make a comment. Common questions so far:

-What shots did you need?:

• Hep A
• Hep B
• Polio
• Typhoid (pills)
• Influenza shot
• Yellow fever
• Fortunately, I'd had some of these already.

-Tomorrow, I get to start taking Doxycycline (used to prevent malaria). Made the mistake of reading the side effects, which look like a blast to have while on an airplane. Wish me luck!






-Where exactly is Malawi?
See picture of Africa posted on blog.


All in all, I'm anxious to get going. Not sure when I'll be able to blog, so bear with me. Hope that you had a great Christmas and that you have a wonderful New Years!