I am a licensed, practicing Clinical Psychologist living in San Diego, California. When I was 59, I decided to go after a life-long dream of serving in the Peace Corps. I have been working with people who have HIV/AIDS and their families since 1987. I wanted to use this experience in another country and requested that I be sent to Africa.
It was a long and arduous application and medical clearance process of 21 months before I learned with certainty that I would be serving in South Africa as an NGO Capacity Builder. My training starts on July 24, 2006.
I own my own home (me and the bank that is) here in San Diego and have lived here since 1969. I am so very fortunate to have made many long-term friends who are very supportive of me. They don't want me to go - yet they want me to realize my dream - so it is bittersweet for them as well as for me.
I plan to rent out my house while I am gone. I am trying to sell my car. I have 5 cats to place somewhere. A friend has agreed to keep 2 of them for me but I still have not found homes for the other 3. I am discovering that there is a momumental number of things to do and be taken care of when a person shuts down their life.
I decided to write this journal of my experiences over the next 2 years rather than rely on my memory over time. Also, I can post pictures here and will do so. I am hoping that those who read this will be able to vicariously spend the time with me. Thanks for your interest.