FYSOP!

I got to move in early and participate in the First Year Student Outreach Program. I was in the issue area disabilities. And I couldn't ask for anything better seeing as I am planning on majoring in special education. Jess and I were partners at the Aspergers Association of New England. There we spent the day socializing, drawing, eating, making t-shirts, and just having fun. Jess seemed very timid and stand-offish at the beginning. As time went on we really connected and before she left she asked me if I'd be coming again to volunteer. Ah, it was a wonderful feeling to know that we did build a bond and she had just as much fun as I did. Btw, Aspergers Syndrome is very similar to Autism. They have social problems most of the time. However, some of them can be geniuses such as Albert Einstein! There are both high and low functioning forms of it as well.
My group at FYSOP decided to take a picture of a huge handicapped sign! haha. I really grew close to these people and have hopefully formed friendships that will last through school and community service activities. FYSOP ended tonight... sad :(

This was Marjorie. I can't even explain what I felt this day. She was blind from a form of cancer that destroyed her vision. This was the Greater Boston's Blind association. I was able to help Marj finish a bag she had been making from last winter! I also led a group of them in chair exercises and sang some pretty good songs :) But really, Marj and I connected so well and it was just incredible to hear about her life then and her life now.

Overall, I can't even describe the feelings I felt and gratitude I have. I went into this thinking I was going to be a good citizen and great person by volunteering my time and money for these people. Ah! I quickly found out it's not me, they are the great people. People with disabilities endure things that I can't comprehend. They have every right to despise life but most choose to endure and look at the blessings they have... and I realized the blessings I often overlook. And from what I've seen, most of those who have decided to look at the positive things despite their disabilities, also believe in Christ. I don't think that is coincidence. In the words of my friend bailey, I think its a godicence.

BOSTON BABY!!!

Ok, lets get one thing right... Not ALL of those bags are mine. My mom, Kelli, sisters, Carlee and Ali, and Carlee's boyfriend David came to move me in. Thank goodness too! One thing I learned, packing your life into suitcases isn't possible unless you've got a sister there to zip up or sit on your bags! At this point I was just happy to be in Boston :)

Before I moved in we got to tour Boston for a few days. This was at Old North Church in the North end. Doesn't mom just look heavenly? We took some good pictures at this church... this is one of the few.
Ali and I look incredibly good as statues don't you think? This was also in the North end close to an Italian restaurant we ate at where we met Tony. He says the mob is just a myth... I think it was a cover up.
Beaches in Mass! It was BEAUTIFUL and had that awesome sand that just made you want to bask in the sun all day! It's not too far from campus so if I come home with a tan... or more freckles, you'll know why. However, winter is coming soon. Lets not even talk about how I'm going to handle that.
Yes! It's Fenway Park or should I say Pak. Not only do they not pronounce their R's but they also use the word "wicked" in place of the word very. So often you hear phrases such as "wicked cold" "wicked sweet" "wicked cool". I might adapt to that native trait along with -hopefully no one is too hurt by this- becoming a Red Sox fan.

My mom and Ali so graciously finished unpacking and setting up my room as I was at a volunteer program Monday night and Carlee and David had already left for home. I said goodbye that night. I already miss everyone at home soooo much! But beginnings start with goodbyes. And now it's time to start... in the hub of the nation! BOSTON BABY!