Oooo! I feel so good!

Tonight, after a long first day of the WLC, I started singing, "Oooo! I feel so good, and ooo, I knew I would..." (which, for those of you who DON'T know, is a HOBY energizer). It was one heck of a day - in a good way.

I feel enriched. My group of 13 ambassadors is impressing me, surprising me, and exhausting me at every corner. They are wacky, yet insightful. They are intelligent, yet carefree. They are somber, and they are joyful. They are curious, and they seek answers and greater meaning. They've experienced struggles, laughter, regrets, and joy... all in about 36 hours.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.

Will post pictures when I figure out my camera that would probably work better if I knew how to operate it better (yes, Mom: I pay attention to AND remember your lessons; however, I still manage to poorly operate the camera).

Looking forward to tomorrow: a dazzling blue speaker, time at the Museum of Science and Industry, and MORE SMALL GROUP TIME in which the G5s will share their stories. They talk more than me. It's really something.

Signing out, a happily and thoroughly exhausted Emily.

The Final Countdown

Well, folks. It's here: the final countdown.

• Today, I worked my last day in ONU Admissions
• In two days, ambassadors arrive in Chicago for HOBY's World Leadership Congress (WLC)
• In 10 days, I'll return from Chicago to Ada to pack all my furniture for the big move
• And in 13 days, I will live in Winston-Salem, NC

Thanks for that musical interlude, Europe - who apparently sings this song.

For those of you who follow me on Twitter, @emilybuehler, you know that another "count" has been happening this week, as well: the tear-up tally. I have teared up 26 times since Monday at approximately 10:00 am. Why? Because I am surrounded by AMAZING people who will live eight hours away in a matter of two weeks. And I'm sure the tears have just begun; prepare for updates on the tear-up tally as the week progresses.

And prepare for OUTSTANDING stories as my 13 ambassadors from around the country and the world arrive in Chicago for one heck of a week.

For now, I must sign off to enjoy some time with my fellow WLC volunteers.

And to reapply deodorant. It's hot here.

EMILY :)