I'm going to Africa!!!

Yesterday morning I received an e-mail from one of the executive directors in ESOMAR. ESOMAR is an international association for market research professionals, based in Rotterdam.
In that e-mail, Katja (the director) formally invited me to take up a position as a program committee for the coming qualitative conference, which will be held in October in Cape Town (South Africa).
I am head over heels about this. To be trusted to chair a workgroup for two days and select papers to be discussed in a conference for experts of the experts -- this is such an honor. It's a big deal for my work line. What a great opportunity.
Actually I remember chatting with Katja about this during the past conference in Barcelona (November 2005). We were talking about a few of the sessions there. At the time she did mention that she'd like me to join the committee for the coming conference. I expressed my interest in this, but didn't think much of it since there are unlimited researchers who would've also loved to take up the position.
I am just very pleased that she was serious about the appointment.

My company is supporting me 100% for this and that means.... I'M GOING TO AFRICA!!!!!

Putting the professional life aside for one second... there is another reason why I'm so happy about this.
It's a beautiful dream coming true to me. I've always wanted to go to Africa. I know that one day I will make sure I get there, it's just a matter of when. I didn't expect it to be this soon...
I want to see the animals in the wilderness there... I want to see African musicians performing on the street or in other places. I want to touch the land of Nelson Mandela. I want to see the lions, the elephants, the zebras, and it's all coming true in October!
I am too excited.

Today is my lucky day. :)