363 Days Later

As of Friday it will be 365 days, a full year, since I hugged my parents at the airport with 3 suitcases and a bookbag in tow and flew across the ocean for what would be a life changing year. Friday I leave England with those same suitcases and the bookbag, but I am bringing home so much more than I ever could have imagined.

My year over here has been amazing! You always wonder when you make a fresh start. You wonder what sort of people you'll meet. For me, I was surprised that the first people I met, ended up being the people that I spent most of my year with. I met a girl in my course when checking in for orientation. I was put in a group with one of the twins on the first day of class. I walked to town the first time with my American friends. It's been amazing to make such wonderful friends.

I don't think there are words that are adequate to explain what this year has meant to me. To everyone that has supported me this year, thank you so much. I could never thank you enough. To my parents especially, THANK YOU for everything...the gifts, comfort foods from home, phone calls, letters, cards, hugs, and encouragement.

363 days ago I began this journey. In 2 days a new journey begins. And the best part of all is that it begins with hugs from my parents at the airport. I can't wait!

Just because I can't express myself correctly...here are my favorite pictures from this past year. Enjoy!