Orientation: A Never-Ending Story.

Aptly titled, this weekend has gone on forever.

Our daily schedules abide by a single booklet marking the mandatory events we must attend along with a buffet of informative sessions we CAN but do not HAVE TO go to. It all depends on your interests; I went to a financial aid and a study abroad session. It was great information, but honestly didn't inspire any God-sent messages, yet.

My roommates are beginning to open up more, and by whom I mean Xinyi. Her English improves everyday but I believe she's more comfortable with her surroundings and that really helps. Olga is a talker, so my skills as a listener sharpen each and everyday. I pray she becomes more comfortable with college. She calls her parents 3-4 times a day to talk about her feelings and her day so far while also keeping a word by word journal, without realizing how much it affects her experiences here. And my friend Caitlen just came in crying because her parents left and she has a somewhat case of situational anxiety. She's super bubbly, small and energetic, but we are all feeling the out-of-sorts anxiety of no rhythm days.

Our alpha groups toured the entire campus according to our schedules. And then out of no where, a massive wave of nausea shook me to the core with nearly uncontrollable gagging; I hate throwing up and will do all I can to avoid it. Between the constant walking with the weird concoction of eclectic pizza, canned fruit, slightly burnt tomato basil soup and 2-day old birthday cake... ESPECIALLY the birthday cake... I do not believe I shall ever eat food again. So I tried sleeping it off. Didn't work. Went to the bathroom and just sat there for the pure relief of sitting down. Sort of worked. Now I'm sitting here. I don't know what happened. I hope I feel better soon.

Otherwise, Azusa's temperatures dropped today to mid 80's I suspect. The weather felt more suitable for everyday activities. I like this phase because everyone's beginning to feel more comfortable introducing themselves.

But it's totally like ripping the bandaid off slowly; let freshman year begin!