thinking 'bout things but not actually doing the things

Christmas has come and gone, I've gotten a nice little break from work. I've seen a few people I haven't seen in a long time, some I know I'll see again, others I'm not so worried about. Things have changed so much. Being back at home is when I realize that everyone has gone in their different directions and are living their lives how they want to.
My Mom surprised me by booking my flight to NZ, as well as the flight from Miami to LAX. This was a huge help, I love her and could not thank her enough for helping me get to where I want to be. The most exciting part about this is that I don't have a return flight yet! haha I've been joking with her that I may not be coming back. : )
I have been trying not to research things too much and instead am focusing on getting all of my visa application/passport ready and mailed to AustraLearn, so that they can actually stamp my passport with the visa. I'm also working on typing up a thank you letter, and am looking into giving a presentation to the Rotary Club or some other philanthropic organization in the Naples area.
My Dad also ordered my luggage, and that should be arriving sometime in early January. I've started to think about what I'm packing and realize that I want to keep it very minimal, as I may want to bring back a few souveniers!
Speaking of souveniers, if you are reading this blog regularly, even if we're not close or I don't know you well, please email me at rscottwaller@gmail.com with your mailing address.
As far as personal plans for the new year, I reluctantly had to turn down an offer to go to Atlanta and watch the 'peach drop' with some of my friends from Stetson. Instead I'll be able to save money by staying at home and watching the ball drop in the living room. Although I regret this, its a small price to pay to save a few hundred dollars and I will definitely make it up to my friends next year. New York City New Years '10 anyone?

If there is anyone actually reading this, thank you. I know its really boring as of right now, believe me I KNOW! haha, but hopefully things will start to be more interesting in the next two months!! : )

Last all-nighter at stetson

Somehow it seems fitting that on one of my last nights here at Stetson I would be up until dawn working on a paper and studying for an exam. I need a break so badly, even if that break means going home, working, and getting into a more solid routine.

I'll be home on Thursday, starting work on Monday and attempting to find something to do on the nights and weekends. I'm sure there will be plenty of friends to see and catch up with when I get back. Also, I'll be sure to give you all some more information about the University and classes I plan on taking. All of that to come when I get a little more free time from finals.

As far as planning for New Zealand, this is what is on my current "to-do list".
Finish up the application for my student visa
apply to more scholarships
book my flights through STA
buy all the necessary stuff that will get me there and back and in between.
The main items I'm looking for are:
luggage (One large roller suitcase and a dufflebag)
backpack (probably Northface?)
small digital camera (Canon Elph?)
winter-y clothes that will get this Florida kid through a winter
If anyone has any ideas on what you think I might need or things that I am forgetting, please let me know. Keep in mind, I'm looking for durable, small/lightweight and CHEAP/FREE!

I'm going to go finish this paper, what happened in WWI, WWII, and the Cold War again?