See you soon, dearest London

Hello my wonderful loves.

I come to you both sad and overwhelmingly joyful. In just a few hours, I will be getting on a plane to go back the states, and leave London behind. I have to say this has been the most amazing 4 months of my life, and I have no regrets. I lived fully and completely, doing everything I could get my hands on, and filling every moment with life changing experiences. I saw places I'd always dreamed of visiting, had my breath taken away by sights I never dreamed existed, and found home in a place I never dreamed of living. I am head over heels in love with London, and I know it's only a matter of time before I follow my feet back here. So many incredible people were with me for this journey, both physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and I could not be more grateful for all of them.

I can't wait to share my experiences with everyone when I get home, and although I worry about the culture shock of being out of the study abroad life, I know I have the love and support of all of you to help me through. Home is sounding pretty wonderful right about now, after so many months of constant excitement and new experiences. The comfort of home never fades, and I very much look forward to cuddling up next to my fireplace with my cats and some fantastic American television.

These last few weeks in London were perhaps the best of all, as I truly got to experience London to the fullest. As I sat this morning in a quiet corner of Regent's Park and watched the native Londoners go about their morning errands, I imagined myself among them and smiled. Who knows if I'll end up in London, but I know I must come back, and thanks to the wonderful friends I've made here, that shouldn't be too difficult to arrange.

So, here are my final words of wisdom, from all I've learned through this amazing adventure. Never be afraid to jump and do something extraordinarily terrifying, because chances are it will change you forever. Be spontaneous, but have a plan to make sure you live it up right. Meet people, all people, everywhere, all the time. Friends made while traveling may last a day or a lifetime, but they will make your trip. Take long moments to just sit, breathe, smile, and say thank you for this place. Photographs have helped me learn so much about myself and the places I've visited, but once in a while it's more rewarding to put the camera down and use your real eyes to truly see. Find beauty in the smallest things - in rain, grass, the sound of leaves under your feet, children playing in the park, Burberry scarves, sunshine, chocolate creme brulee, and goodnight kisses. Wake up early once in a while, because everything looks different in the beautiful morning light. Let yourself become a whole new person and keep those you love with you for the ride. Love every single moment - there will never be another one like it.

Some words from others:
"Soulful travel is the art of finding beauty even in ruins, even in inclement weather, even in foul moods." -Phil Cosineau

"This city now doth, like a garment, wear the beauty of the morning; silent bare, ships, towers, domes, theatres and temples lie open unto the fields and to the sky; All bright and glittering in the smokeless air."
-Wordsworth, from a bridge over the Thames at dawn

"Yes, atmosphere is my style." -JMW Turner

"It's not goodbye, it's see you later" - Brooke Bergen
"Pass by that which you do not love, but always, always stop for that which you do." -Phil Cosineau (and a little me)

And, one more from me, my own little mantra to live by: Live simply, Love greatly.


That's all I've got for you. Thanks so much for sticking with me through all of this, I couldn't have done it without you. I will see you all soon! Much London love and cheers! Happy Christmas!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE. <3