Goodbyes and Christmas

Thursday was my last day at my German Gymnasium. I was in the 11^th grade class and I got to know a lot of my classmates really well. I had been there for 3 months and I thought that leaving would be easy. When I 1^st arrived I enjoyed the teachers the classes were long and students were friendly but I did not have the connection with people for a long time, until around 3 weeks after my arrival. I met some people who took me under their wing and I got to know them, but I still felt like an outcast. English class brought some familiarity, but that was met with a bit of hostility to. The class was great, but I think some started to look at me like a teacher rather than a student and decided to make rude jabs at my home country.  My time ended and I said my goodbyes to the people who I had grown to care about, my 7th graders who I had taught English to, my friends who found out that I was just as strange as they were and the teachers who had helped me on this journey. It was actually difficult to say goodbye but the people who called me friend let me know that they were there for me, and, as with most things, it got better with time.

                Soon I will start a new journey with a different host family in a different city. I will miss everyone but I know that I will see them again.

On a happier note, Christmas was beautiful. My whole host family dressed up and both sides of grandparents visited us. We ate well, drank a bit too much and laughed the night away. We shared memorable gifts and stories and it all was amazing.  I was without internet during the Christmas season so it really allowed me to immerse myself in the love and warmth that surrounded me.  I hope everyone is enjoying their holidays.  

May you have a fantastic New Year!

<3 <3 <3