Goodbye For Now, Nigeria

I sit here writing this now at a bar in the Lagos airport, getting ready to leave Nigeria for the first time in the last three months. Only halfway done with my stint, but what a journey it has already been! I've gotten to see some pretty amazing things, meet some great people, and been challenged physically, mentally, spiritually and even socially. I will say, though it's only been three months, it has actually felt a lot longer. On the whole, I think I make this out to be such a great experience, which, don't get me wrong, it is. But, at the same time it has most certainly been one of the most challenging and trying experiences of my life. When I first got here people warned me that three months was about the maximum most people can stay before having to get out for a vacation, and I can definitely relate... I'm ready. I'm in much need of a short break from Nigeria, and what better time to get it than during Christmas since the weather here has basically prevented me from remembering its the season. It's just a little hard to get in the Christmas spirit when it's 90+ degrees every day. I think some cold weather might be one of the things I'm most looking forward to about this trip. Roughly twelve hours from now I'll be wandering around Munich in the 30 degree weather, drinking cold beer, mulled wine and cider, and taking in some of the world's best Christmas markets. Then three days later it's off to Vienna for some more Christmas markets, concerts, caroling, and what should be a beautiful midnight Christmas Mass at the cathedral. Crossing my fingers for a white Christmas as well! 

In closing, I will say that it's certainly going to be odd spending my first Christmas away from family. I will miss that aspect of the holidays dearly. But, I am still beyond excited about this trip and couldn't pass up the opportunity to spend Christmas in, what I've heard are, some of the most festive places around the world. 

Nigeria, it's been real, but I'm definitely ready for some time apart. See you next week.