Last Post (kind of)

Well, I see that there's a plane ticket I'm expected to use tomorrow. To board a plane, and leave the dream that's been realized and come back to reality. It's such a strange feeling, knowing that the thing I've been looking forward to since about sophomore year of high school is about to be over. I would be lying if I said I'm not extremely torn and emotional right now. I watched "Away We Go" last night and just started crying out of nowhere haha. But, I am so very excited to see my family, and friends. I am also excited about things like Taco Bell at 3 in the morning, and driving a car, seeing my dog, texting, things of that silly nature (Figaro is not silly, obviously). I have been so extremely blessed to have had this opportunity. I feel like I don't get to be sad about leaving because I've done more traveling in the past 4 months than most will get to do in their lifetime. I've seen things that have moved me, scared me, and challenged me. I've made stupid mistakes, and also made incredible strides. I've grown so much as a person and whether it shows or not, I don't feel like I'm the same person that stepped off that plane 4 and a half months ago. I've come to see the kids here like my family and I'm so very sad that some of us will be spending the summer apart. But I am looking forward to starting the rest of my life and make new plans as well. As I've come to think of it; it's just time to move on. I can and will come back later in my life and have a completely different experience, but it will never be like the one I'm just finishing. I can try to explain it all I want and tell stories until I'm blue in the face, but nothing I ever say will be able to explain the change I've felt within myself and how different the world looks now. I am eternally grateful for this adventure and Holland and the people in it will always have a special place in my heart.

Now, I did goof up on the blogging thing, I know that. For my own sake and for those of you who want to read it, I will be writing about things that went on here and on trips. I still want to blog about some of my classes, and of course spring break in Spain and my amazing trip to Paris. So, we all have that to look forward to, and there are always the loads and loads of pictures on facebook.

I want to thank any and all of you who read these posts, even though there weren't many of them. And I want to thank anyone who took the time to go through pictures and comment on them, or just look at them. Your support during my time here has meant so much to me and it's been good to know that you have been getting some enjoyment out of the experience as well. I can't wait to see you all when I get back (tomorrow, holy shit) and I can't wait to share my stories and pictures ( and stroop waffles if you're lucky enough!) with you. Thank you for your interest, support, and for reminding me of all the good things I have to come home to.