Tuesday, October 25, 2011

There's a wreath on my door and I'm going to Israel

Back in September, I posted about the beginning of my Birthright journey. Shortly after, I did my interview, got all of my ducks in a row, and waited to hear if I'd get to travel to the holy land.

Well... when I was sitting in the Charlotte airport on Sunday, I got the email... I'm going to Israel! I leave December 14. Seven weeks from tomorrow.

Thus far I only have my flight information. I am not-so-patiently waiting to hear more... such as the trip itinerary, a packing list, and whether or not I get to meet my fellow travelers before we depart. The last part is what I'm most antsy about. (I know, you're shocked it's not the packing.) I've heard mumblings from former Birthrighters that a happy hour or some other event is held prior to the trip so that you're not traveling with a bunch of complete strangers. I also heard something about a Facebook group. So that we can all spy on each other before meeting face-to-face? Awesome.

I have to say that while I'm a melting pot of emotion, a lot has changed since the stomachache inducing process of registering. Yes, "nervousness" and "anxiety" are undoubtedly in the mix, but "excitement" and "curiosity" are much higher up on the list. I know that if I didn't do this, I'd regret it for the rest of my life. I am literally getting in under the wire. I am so lucky.

I promise to keep you posted of all the developments in the next two months. You all have been so supportive and it means so much. I cannot believe that ten years later, I am finally going to Israel. It's a dream come true - don't let me tell you otherwise.

P.S. I'll post photos of the wreath tomorrow.

17 comments:

  1. So, so, so incredibly excited for you Teddi! Though I am not Jewish, therefore do not even have access to this kind of trip, I am incredibly jealous! I know you'll have an amazing time.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I had the best time on my br trip and I'm sure you will too! Congrats.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Ah so jealous! I've gone on birthright and staffed a trip before. You will seriously have the most amazing time! :) Have so so so so much fun.... I recommend bringing a lot of comfy clothing to walk around in, I wore a lot of Lululemon pants :)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Awesome, cannot wait to read all about it! Have heard nothig but amazing stories from fellow trip takers. :)

    ReplyDelete
  5. How exciting! I am looking forward to your travel posts...

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hope you have a fantastic time! So many of my friends who have gone have described it as life changing.

    ReplyDelete
  7. MAZEL TOV lady friend, this is exciting news for sure :)

    ReplyDelete
  8. birthright was amazing, you'll have an amazing time!

    ReplyDelete
  9. i am so excited for you! i have staffed five BRI trips - four last year alone! i am happy to share all my tips and my packing list with you if you'd like it :)

    a lot of my friends ask me to look at their itineraries and talk them through each day so they know exactly what to expect. happy to do that too!

    email me if you want! jordanmarisasilverman at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  10. That's such an amazing opportunity! Best of luck with the packing and preparation.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Congratulations Teddi! Once I graduate I plan on applying for my birthright. Most of my friends have done and they had wonderful experiences and many said it was life changing! I can't wait to hear about your adventures!

    ReplyDelete
  12. so excited for you - birthright was one of the best things I've ever done.

    on a sidenote, a few of my friends have met their significant others through birthright! :)

    happy and safe travels!
    L&L,
    Courtney

    ReplyDelete
  13. I went on the very FIRST birthright trip and it was awesome. My husband and I went back in 2009 through our Federation and it was just as fun. I am so excited for you and I hope you have a wonderful time!!!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Congratulations! hope you have a fabulous time, I'm sure it will be worth all of the anxiety that was the registration process.

    ReplyDelete
  15. YAY! I am SO happy you get to go on your trip!!! CONGRATS!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Israel is amazing! Have a fabulous time and be prepared to take lots of pictures!

    ReplyDelete