Coming Home

As I write this final journal spot from England I have to fight back the tears. It's been an amazing experience and one I will surely never forget.

I can't believe I've been living in Europe for 4 months. The time really did just fly by.

I feel like I've grown so much on this trip. I'm more independent and confident. I feel stronger than ever, and ready to take on new challenges.

I'm looking forward to seeing my family and friends back home, but other than that, I'm not ready to depart. If I could pack up my family, friends, (and maybe Taco Bell) and just bring them all to England to live in the castle with me, then everything would be perfect.

Don't get me wrong. I've had my hardships here, too. It hasn't all been cake, living 4,000 miles away from home. But, it's been an experience of empowerment... a journey so amazing and intricate that it can't be described through a random blogspot journal or a highly decorated scrapbook.

No amount of recording will ever do this trip justice. So forever I will keep the experiences, the adventures, and the memories in my mind... replaying them often, as not to forget my life as an American in Europe.

On that final note, a huge "thank you" to everyone who supported me through cards, e-mails and prayers. Your kindness will not be overlooked.
It won't be long 'til we meet again...

Ashley Marie