Planning Ahead

From the time I submitted my application until I received an invitation to serve as a volunteer, I read as much as I could about what Peace Corps service was like, including many blogs written by PCVs from around the world.  I began to notice that many, if not all, of the volunteers I followed seemed to go through a kind of emotional rollercoaster throughtout their service.  And each had their own way of reacting to the occasional feelings of excitement, nostalgia, frustration, achievement, isolation, etc. How each individual handled the mental and spiritual aspect of PC, not the physical, is what ultimately made their experience.

Soon, I will find myself joining the ranks of these volunteers and I have kept their writings present in my mind.  In an effort to better prepare for the aformentioned emotional rollercoaster– I have decided to store my happiness in a jar and take it with me to Peru.

write down memories that make you smile. revisit when you need a little boost. remember life is good.

I came across this idea while pinning on Pinterest (follow me here).  I think its cute and practical for everyone to put one of these together.  Who doesnt enjoy recalling their fondest memories?  But, if you’re moving to a foreign country, away from friends and family, for the next 27 months, this Memories Jar will be indispensable in holding on to the slightest sliver of sanity necessary to survive.