Just Thinking Out Loud

Some of you may not know, but I am taking a global studies class over winter break for the minor. It begins pre-departure, then continues in-country and finishes upon my return back the US. I completed the first of 4 of the assignments I need to do before I leave. The topic was think of reasons why you chose your country and what your fears/excitement may be. I didn't want to get too personal on my first assignment, but one of the things I'm scared of is being alone. I think that's why I didn't want to let Jared go. I wanted to know that I will have someone who is close by (he'll be in London next semester) who loves me and will support me. I didn't want to have the full extent of homesickness that I know I will experience going over without anyone.

Through all my rant: I thank everyone who loves me for their support. My mother and father who although hesitant to let me go, allowed me to do this because I've dreamed of it for so long. My brother who has gone through so much with his illness the past year. I hope you get better and are able to come visit me! My grandparents, aunts and uncles who shared all their oversea stories and given me extra advice and help me to prepare for the change. My girlfriends who are always there for me when I need them most and can share anything with. All the guys from that suite in Hughes and 10 Edwards who told me that I was there friend too, not just Jared's girlfriend. The Mather guys whom I just had the pleasure of meeting this semester. They opened their doors and hearts to me, the weird little awkward girl that likes to dance and talk about unicorns. Everyone else at school whom I got to know through classes that allowed me to see that I can be friends with Bio majors and that there are people that can work together and play together (we ARE going to open a biotech company one day.. don't you forget it Samara and Mike)! You are all so fantastic and I will be thinking about you as I'm flying over the Atlantic Ocean.  I wish those who will be leaving college and graduating next semester have a wonderful time and I know all of you will do wonderful things with your life. You will all find happiness, love and prosperity. I'm going to remember all the wonderful memories we had whether short or long. I treasure my time with all of you and although I may not have gotten as close with some, I still thank you for the time you spent with me. And those who did take a chance on getting to know me better, I thank you even more. You witnessed the crazy, vulnerable person that hides beneath the cheery exterior and that I'm just looking to be accepted somewhere.  Thank you for accepting me. Thank you for loving me.

(I apologize. This is much longer than intended!)