Home.

I am writing this while extremely jet-lagged, and somewhat loopy...but here goes.

Home, home...I'm finally home! And it's the weirdest feeling. Truly, I never thought it would feel so weird to be back in America. But, it does. Last night, Andrew and I were in London. And tonight, I'm back home typing this blog post in my old bed. Last night, I was only a short ride away from visiting any country in Europe. But tonight, an expensive 12-hour flight stands between us.

Looking back, I almost can't believe I lived in Ireland and traveled to seven other countries this semester. I am beyond thankful for the opportunity, and it has broadened my outlook on life in so many ways. I've discovered a love for travel, and there are still so many places I still want to see. I think I'm ready to be back in Los Angeles, but at the same time...I've caught the travel bug and I want to relive these four months all over again. I know blogging will help. I still have about a month and a half of posts to catch up on, and I can relive my trip through these photos and memories. Seriously...prepare for random travel posts for the next two months or so :)

While I know my time abroad had to come to an end (and, in some ways, I was ready for it too), I didn't expect it to be so bittersweet. Last night, I felt uneasy about coming back to the states. With all the tragedy that has stricken our nation, something about staying in Europe made me feel safe—separated from the culture of fear that is ever-present in America. It's hard to describe, but I felt so much more at ease abroad. Perhaps it had to do with the genuine kindness I experienced abroad—a kindness from strangers that I am not used to from living in LA. Another part of me was nervous to return home to a house without my pup Katie. Since I was in Ireland when she passed away, it was hard to process her being gone. Every memory of my childhood home has her in it, so it was sad to come home and not have her rush up to greet me at the door.

However, it still feels great to be home.

Overall, these past four months have been an amazing vacation from "real life." I know in a few short weeks I will be back into the swing of things, but transitioning back is always the hardest part. But for now...here's to an unforgettable four months, Christmas at home, seeing old friends, and a new quarter waiting for me in LA :)