Introduction to my Blog (Yes the blog title is punny)

 

The Devil Went down to Georgia

Well not exactly, I am heading to Madagascar! As many of you know I have joined the Peace Corps and have an incredible opportunity to serve overseas. This means, starting in February, I will be on the other side of the world (9,500 miles or 15,300 km from Minneapolis. Well if it was a straight flight. Spoiler alert: It isn't.) Now to the half of you that cheered learning this, that's rude but I still love you. To the half of you that are dramatically taking your last breaths at the thought of not seeing me until April of 2025, breathe easy! I made this blog to keep you updated on my adventures (and so my parents know I am still alive). 

I know what you are thinking, "Alyssa, if you are in Madagascar in a remote village, with no running water and minimal electricity if any, how are you going to update us on this blog?" That is a great question my friend and the answer is by trying my hardest. All you need to make internet is the will to do it right.... right? I'm just kidding, I will do my best to update you at least once a month when I have access to bigger towns. Plus for the first three months, I will be in the capital so no worries about internet connection while I am there. This blog seems like a great excuse to see if internet cafes sell Hot Chocolate.

Oddly enough, the reality of the situation almost requires the suspension of disbelief. Madagascar can easily be juxtaposed to the MidWest I grew up in. New challenges are inevitable on this journey, but I will share them all with you. For those of you who are loving parents (saddled with children and unable to travel currently), I will make sure to post some fast-paced stories so you can enjoy them (live vicariously through me). For those of you who are worried about my safety (mom, dad, Abigayle), I will make sure to include photos of myself as often as possible. And, yes Abigayle, I will also try to take photos of Lemurs (don't blame me if they are uglier than you expected.) 

This is all to say, this blog is going to be a place where you all can check up on me in the next two and a half years. I will post as often as I can and try to keep in contact. 

With all my heart,

Alyssa

P.s. If you listen to the recording in my profile you can hear an epic joke.