twin kindly reminded me today that we have just one month left until we fly home. our brother patrick comes to visit us in two weeks, and our parents are coming shortly after that. we honestly can't wait. it's felt so strange being apart from everyone for so long. it's going to be amazing to show our family all the little restaurants, shops, cafes, and corners of florence that we have discovered and fallen in love with.
these last four months have been a whirlwind, and let me just say...i'm ready to come home. i've realized how blessed i am to be from america. and that's all i'll say about that.
i don't want this to be taken the wrong way, because my time here has been nothing short of amazing, and i wouldn't take it back for anything in the world. it's just tough being away for so long, that's all. visiting italy and living in it are two very different things.
i'm so happy and proud of myself for doing this. for coming here. i know how differently i will see and appreciate things when i get back home. little, simple, daily things i once took for granted are going to stick out like purple elephants in a room. the thought of seeing certain people again, and visiting my favorite spots at home is something i can't seem to fathom. it's just unreal. it's like i can't believe i get to go back. i feel so lucky. (is that weird?) i guess i'm just really thankful for my life, and everyone who has been warm enough to be a part of it.
there are many things i want to do and create at home in my lifetime. some things with others, some things by myself. some things for others, and some things for myself. my time away has allowed me to imagine these things, and dream up new ideas as well. i'm so excited to put these dreams into action, and do whatever i can to make them come true someday.
i still have much to do before may 30th, and one unbelievably exciting trip left. i know it will come incredibly quick, and when i leave this place i will miss it. so i'm promising myself to not waste another minute here. there's still so much to do. see. taste. touch.
so, off i go.
{and this is me, a couple months back on an unforgettable night in paris.}