Being home it so strange. Reverse culture shock definitely does exist! I'm having fun seeing all the people I haven't seen in months but it is very sad at the same time. My friends are spread out all across the United States. Not to mention all the friends I had leave who live in Europe. I miss being with them everyday. I also miss the gorgeous view from my apartment window, especially since I am now surrounded by more than a foot of snow here!

There are a lot of things I have to get used to again. Driving is weird and I am starting to realize I miss walking everywhere. I thought being home would be relaxing because I have a break from doing school work and living on my own but I miss Perugia so much. My life was completely different there and coming home is such a drastic difference! Everyone seems to be rushing here and extremely stressed out, especially with Christmas being this week. Everyone is happy to see me home, but no one is really interested in hearing a lot of stories. I can understand that, especially because no one can relate to the amazing semester I have just completed, but it is so difficult since I can't even talk about the last four months of my life.

Coming home made me realize how much I actually learned and changed while I was away. I have gained a lot of patience and learned how to relax. I am trying not to let the stress of the holidays get to me. I wish so badly that I could go back to Peruga and spend more time there with my friends. I'm so sad that my semester is over but I have so many memories and friendships that will last a life time. I also have plans to see two of my friends in a few weeks. I'm so happy that we are already planning trips to see each other. It makes keeping in touch a lot easier and also gives us all something to look forward to!