First Blog Entry!

I am starting this blog early since we are not actually leaving for Russia until May 15th.  I want to make sure it is set up so I do not encounter any problems with it once we actually get to Russia! The trip is about a month away and I am getting so excited!  I think the only thing I am not looking forward to is having to spend two whole weeks without my husband. :(  I recently purchased a new rolling duffel bag from LL Bean for the trip; it arrived yesterday!  It is definately large enough to pack everything I need without being too large.  Also, it is purple!!!  My shopping adventures will continue as I search for the perfect pair of walking shoes for the trip!  We recently found out that our trip to St. Petersburg will be cancelled.  The cost was a little more than planned for and the trip itself is time consuming.  Dr. Vandiver decided that it would be best to eliminate the stop as it is more of a historical and aesthetic portion of the trip and less related to criminal justice.  Please check out our host agencies website: http://www.serendipity-russia.com/.  They seem like an awesome group of people and they help teach English to Russian students!