oh, the notion of going home.

In three days, I will be home. I will be in the car with my loved ones, on the way to go eat my weight in Mexican food. I can't express the delight that I feel, knowing that I will once again be surrounded by the people I care most for...don't tell them, but secretly I'm most excited about cuddling my dogs again.

This is where I begin to feel incredibly selfish.
I have been given such an amazing opportunity, and here I am, practically squeaking at the thought of it being over. I would hop on a plane right this very moment, if I could.

I am so very, very grateful to everyone who helped make this adventure possible. By everyone I mean everyone. The sweet women in the study abroad office. The friendly Boarder Patrol officer that gave us a warm greeting in Ireland. The Porter who came to unlock my bedroom door that night we locked our keys inside...everyone has culminated together to create this possibility for which I can't give enough thanks.

I have seen and done some amazing things here. I have met some incredible people. I have eaten all the unfamiliar foods I have been given, and I've almost always liked it.

That being said, the notion that it is possible to go home makes me feel all warm and gooey inside, and super, super emotional. I now understand the silly little phrase "home is where the heart is". As cliche as it is...it's true. I now realize that although I can roam around the world if I so choose (during this trip, maybe I  have gained toooo much independence and self assuredness?), I would not be completely satisfied if I did so by myself. I could be anywhere, doing anything, and it wouldn't be the same without the people you love. I would rather look someone in the eyes and share the experience rather than capture it on film, add a filter, and alert the world.

I have realized that I have undoubtedly taken some people for granted, and being away from them only highlights the fact that the treasured moments we have had are worth going home to. Being away from everything and everyone has put my life in perspective, and I feel much more willing to strive to be a better friend, daughter, lover, etc. to the people in my life.

I love you all and I can't wait to come home to you.

xoxo

okay, sap over.