And A Happy New Year

January 1st 2012? I can't believe another year has already past. In approximately 30 hours I will be sitting in Pearson airport getting ready to head out. I leave from Toronto and head to Chennai with a layover in Brussels. I have been packing my travel backpack and a carry-on and realized I have no idea how to pack for a 4 month trip. I have decided to pack what I can, try and remember everything, but in the end all I need is my plane ticket, passport, and money. I don't know if anyone has seen the headlines concerning India recently, but it has given cause for my parents to continue to worry. Chennai was hit by cyclone Thane that resulted in a number of deaths and a lot of structural damage. May have been uprooted from their homes and villages and relief is needed. India's cyclone season traditionally lasts from April to December so no need to worry. Being in this area right after the destruction of the cyclone will be an experience in and of itself. I am very excited, anxious, and nervous for this trip. It is well structured and has run for many years by the University of Guelph. I am going with a great group of people who I hope to better get to know. I hope everyone has an awesome new year, try and keep those resolutions, and I will see you when I return.