The Journey Beginnith (By Rachel)

The last the parents saw of us was before security, so they didn't see us relishing our last American pizza from SBARRO or watching the world cup games in Max & Erma's. We all ate our fill then proceeded to the gate to embark on our trip to Dallas. After leaving from Dayton, we spent a lovely 2 hour plane ride together. Everyone slept for the most part on the first plane ride, but as soon as we arrived in Texas, everyone wanted food and soccer more than anything else. Almost the entire team watched the game from tables in TGI Fridays, and we all shook our heads when USA tied England. The two and a half hour layover was then occupied by our favorite game, mafia, in the middle of our departure gate. We got a few looks, but it was the beginning of a trip tradition and a way to pass the time. The next plane ride was much noisier, with some wishing to continue the mafia games, while others were content to play with the movable head rests on the plane. Zac had the lucky honor of sitting behind Aimee and I, who played with the head rest as well as bothered him about his hair. We landed in Monterrey and were immediately welcomed by a gust of hot air as we exited the plane. I checked my phone for the last time, to see the weather, and my weather app told me it felt like 105F outside. We all made it safely through customs with few problems or luggage checks, and were on our way in an air-conditioned bus to Back2Back shortly. The bus ride was a nice rest before we arrived on the campus, just to unload all of our luggage again. We heard the rules, got some burgers for dinner, and got a chance to worship as a team before the exhaustion set in and we had to retire to our dorms. Once in the dorms, the air conditioner was a welcome surprise, and we all got ready and climbed in bed pretty quickly. Everyone was excited for the next day, so we tried to get to sleep early. Our dorms are extremely nice, and our group even has our own showers! Breakfast this morning was cereal and milk, and the lunch crew jumped right on their job with no complaints. Parker, Emily, Austin, and Mai are being so helpful right now, making the most delicious PB&J sandwiches just for us. To all the parents: we are safe, happy, and excited for our mission.