What exactly does the world race day to day look like? As I prepare, I’m slowly getting a better picture of what is it that may come. I think it would be naive to say that I can fully know what it is going to be like! A year from now, it would be fun to read what I thought this race is going to look like!
For those who are following along with me on this adventure, I’d like to share with you a couple of things of what I am expecting!
1) Expect the unexpected..
Yup! From what I gather for the alumni’s and blogs I’ve read, you will really have to be prepared for the unforeseen! We may have our countries picked out, but we won’t know which part of the countries we will be in until a couple weeks before! There are also chances of changing countries depending on the situations!
2) Washrooms are going to be different!
From an alumni of the race,
“7) Don’t sign up for The World Race if you depend on clean bathrooms. I wish I could count how many times I have had to step over poop and plug my nose, while trying to balance myself in a squatty-potty.
But God will give you compassion for the people who live in garbage dumps and the children who walk barefoot through sewage daily on their way to school.”
I’ve been to Indonesia and have used squatting toilets before, but haven’t seen something this bad! I’m going to miss the comforts of my home.
3) Sleeping conditions aren’t going to be the same!
Nope, I can’t bring my comfy bed/duvet/and super awesome pillow. It’s going to be a long trip getting to know my little sleeping pad and sleeping bag! Here’s another photo from other racers usual sleeping arrangements!
After this, I will be an expert camper! Ready for any situations.
4) Bugs! Bugs of all kinds!
I don’t mind them, but I also don’t like sleeping with them around. And on this race, I’m sure I will be encountering many bugs and of all kinds. They say even mosquito nets aren’t going to keep them all away! The other day a moth was in the restaurant. It flew around and hit me a couple times. That already gave me shivers.. I think I have a long ways to go to get used to this!
5) Diseases and Travelers Diarrhea
Mosquitoes love me! If you’re around me while camping, you are usually safe! I’m preparing and expecting to contract possible diseases. I have a track record of getting food poisoned as well during traveling. I’m sure I’ll have my fair share of bedridden days!
6) Shower situations may vary
Oh how I love hot showers! I’ll have to get used to cold showers or possibly no showers for extended period of time. Some say even up to a month with just 1 bath in a muddy pond! Might have to get used to living a little dirty!
7) The views and the cultures
I’m going to 11 different countries! I’m bound to see amazing sights! And we aren’t going to tourist spots in particular. So this is a good chance to see what life is like around the world. To see the rural areas and to experience the culture first hand with the locals!
8) Life changing experience
With all that has been said, one thing that has been a common denominator for alumni’s and former missionaries, is that you’re perspective on the world and in life will change! Knowing that I will be apart of God’s plan and see his work first hand in these countries is going to make all the lifestyle changes totally worth it!
I’m really excited about the trip I’m about to take! Please pray for me that all the rest of my preparation goes well! I still have a lot to sort out and only 2 and a half months before I embark!
Thank you all for your amazing support!!!
