Saying Goodbye

Well, this is it. The last blog. And I have no idea how to end. I could write about the struggles of learning an entirely new education system and how I had to force myself to write in passive voice after a semester of getting it beaten out of me......Or I could write about the crazy (literally) people I've come across over the semester. I just am not sure. So here goes an attempt to cover four months of pain, laughter, sweat, tears, and ultimately, change.
Since that dreadful evening of arrival on February 2, many things have changed. I feel like Anne of Green Gables. I went looking for myself outside of my town, and realized it was home all along. I love Scotland to death and would gladly return. I have learned so much about the people, the culture, the weather (;)), and the lifestyle. You know your Scottish if you have a dog you walk everyday and always have a pipe and a walking stick and an accent no one can understand unless you're a Scot too. If I use words like 'quite' or 'rather' or 'knackered' or even let loose a British swear word, do bear with me. Even being surrounded by Americans mostly, I have still been affected. You never go to the pub until after 10 and always stay for at least two drinks before moving on to the next one. Socializing is key. Whether in the pub or treading in on the polo pitch, it's all about communication. I think that's one thing that we can learn from them, especially outside the city. The weekends are for walking into town for no other reason than to be out in town. When the sun is out, you go to the beach and heaven forbid you bring an umbrella because who wants to block the sun! Take a book to the coffee shop when it rains, and take it to the beach when it shines. No hurry, no rush to a destination. The only running done around here is running for exercise! Scotland is a place I love, but I love home more. Oh yes, I am a traveler at heart, but I am a homebody heart and soul. I am an adventurer, that will never change. But I think being away in another culture for so long makes you miss things you never thought you'd miss. Currency for one thing! Half price appetizers at Z'tejas. Dad's Saturday morning breakfast. The Dollar Theater! Even school back at VU. Mom clutching a pillow over her face during a movie and asking what's happening :). One thing about the students over here, even the ones a part of the Christian Union: Once they have a group of people they hang out with, they don't really change. Sure we get invited to things, but there is no follow through of "oh we are leaving at 7 you should come with us" or anything. I miss the excitement of students back home when someone new shows up and there is a scramble to meet them and get to know them. This has been an experience I will never forget or regret. I am so glad I went through the crazy process of applying and freaking out about EVERYTHING so I could really experience a UK University. It was totally worth it.
So while this last post may seem a bit negative towards Scotland, don't believe it for a second. I don't think I believed such a beautiful place could ever feel like home, but it has been for the last four months. I can't wait to share photos and videos and stories because it really has been a once in a lifetime experience. But it's time to come home :) So start up the BBQ, let in the sun, and bring on the summer, cuz in four days this Scottish Cali girl is coming home!

Cheers for the last time!