I don't know if I have many expectations for this mission trip to Nicaragua, because life is so unpredictable.  I love being surprised.  Instead, I have a mix of both hopes and expectations.  One thing I am sure will happen is that I will be dragged out of my comfort zone.  That is important though because otherwise how would I or anyone else be changed.  Living life outside of my comfort zone is what I strive for.  Some of the best memories in my life are times that I was way out of my comfort zone.  Another hope I have is to see God at work in Nicaragua.  He is everywhere so I am sure we will be seeing plenty of Him.   I hope this experience will transform me.  I am not quite sure how, but I am sure I will be different when I come back.   I hope to have a better understanding of the world in which I live.  Going on these types of trips gives faces and stories to the numbers that we here about on the news that deal with poverty, orphans, AIDS, wars, natural disasters, and so on.  Since I do not know that much about Nicaragua, I am sure I will learn a lot about the history, culture, traditions, political situations, and the people.  I also hope to connect with the people there.  We are all unified in Christ no matter our backgrounds and languages and I think that is so cool.  I find it awesome how we can establish relationships with the people even though we may not speak the same language.  Not only do I hope that Nicaragua changes me, but also I hope that our group changes me as well.  You all sound like amazing people and I cannot wait to meet everyone! I hope that we will form close bonds throughout the month that we are together, and that we will all learn from eachother.