Hi friends! Welcome to my new blog “On the Isthmus.”
As most of my friends already know, the Peace Corps finally invited me to serve as a Community Environmental Extension Agent volunteer in Panama. (more details on the job later) The application process was time-consuming and at times frustrating, but in the end things all came together as I had hoped they would. In just a few days I’m off to Miami for staging, where I’ll meet the other forty or so volunteers in my group, then it’s a direct flight to Tocumen International Airport in Panama City the following day.
All that’s left to do is pack, which is so incredibly scary and exciting at the same time. Writing a packing list and gathering my clothes into the suitcase is the simplist task in the world, but I have found myself dreading the process! It’s amazing how the most prosaic activity can jolt you into accepting reality. I know that I will soon be feeling nostalgia for all of the great experiences I’ve had these last few years in Pensacola; Music in the Park, gallery nights, concerts at Vinyl, three dolla’ holla’ at HopJacks and of course beach days. More than anything I will miss the evenings sitting in rocking chairs on a friend’s front porch, talking over a few beers. Wow, that sounds really country. (:
Well, enough with the touchy feely stuff. I’m super excited to go and I really appreciate all of you who have encouraged me through this process. You guys are the best!
As time goes on, the idea is to utilize this blog to document what I learn and experience in Panama. (You can only go so far with a status update, you know) I intend to write about my projects as well as travel stories and the general ups and downs of entry-level development work while living abroad. I might only have intermittent access to the internet, so I’ll shoot for at least one post per month. (unless my hut comes with free wifi) haha… I’m not sure if I will be in a hut or not yet, but it’s a definite possibility. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Okay friends, that is all for now. Peace and love.
Love u keith! Its so exciting!
Thank you Tracy, I love you to pieces! Your encouragement has been so helpful throughout the application process. I really appreciate it!
Keith,
I am so excited for you! This is going to be not just an awesome new adventure, but a new chapter in your life! I am excited to hear about the new experiences you will have! Just so you know, I plan to live vicariously through you, but in AC. I love you, cherish our friendship (even if you ate my bestfriend). Ha ha. Yay for new chapters!!!
I’m going to miss you Keith. You are an amazing friend and I can’t wait to visit you in Panama. We are forever bonded by our eclectic memories! I love you!
So proud of you, Keiffers! Love you!
Keith~ good luck dear friend. You’re very special to me and we will be keeping in touch. I wish I could see you before you leave.. But its okay bc you’re always in my heart. I’m so proud of you for fulfilling your dream. This is very important to you and I admire you for taking the leap. I’ll be making a visit next year if you’re allowed them. Be safe. Love you!
I’m so incredibly inspired by you my friend. =) You know I will be following each month and keeping track of ya! Wayne and I send our love and wishes for safe travels!