Farewell

Today was filled with lots of tears and hugs as I said goodbye to all of my family and friends. I still have not been able to wrap my head around the fact that I will not be seeing them again for a full year. My parents spent hours baking tasty treats and filling the house with Spanish decor in preparation for the party. I opened gifts during which I cried for the first time since this process began. Up until that moment, I had shown nothing but pure excitement. Only 11 days remain until I board the plane to Spain and experience what I have been dreaming of my entire life. It is sad to say goodbye to all I've ever known, but so thrilling to think of all the new and undiscovered places the coming year has to offer.


Mis Amigas

Speedwell Picnic

I just arrived home from the Speedwell picnic at the Iron Valley Golf Course. I have been looking forward to meeting the entire AFS family and all of those who were awarded the same scholarship to study abroad. I love interacting with people who share the same passion for traveling and experiencing the world. The event was filled with chatter and smiling faces. We were all very eager to speak with past exchange students and hear about their experiences. I met a girl from Spain who is being hosted in the United States. She gave me a lot of insight on the Spanish culture and made me all the more excited to start my year abroad. I also was interviewed by a volunteer. He asked several questions on my thoughts and expectations about the upcoming year which was incredibly difficult. No words can truly explain how I currently feel. I am so beyond thankful for having been given this opportunity.

The Speedwell Family