Three Weeks and Counting

I leave for Malaysia in less than three weeks and all I can think is how I have to say goodbye to so many amazing people for ten months.  I thought it would be hard to leave right after I graduated, but I am beginning to think that it will be even harder after living at home these past six months.  Not only have I gotten closer to my family and local friends, but I have gotten to know three babysitting families and two classrooms of students.  My heart aches when I think of saying my goodbyes and leaving everyone.

While my heart may be aching, my mind is aching to teach, learn and discover more about the world in Malaysia.  Yes, I will leave behind many loved ones but I will make new ones in Malaysia.  So far, I know four other Fulbright Scholars will be on my flights to Malaysia.  We all meet up in San Francisco and head to Hong Kong and then Kuala Lumpur together.  Exciting!

Right now, I would like to take a minute to be grateful for the experiences and people I have encountered these past six months.
1.  The Brown Family- Nolan and his parents have showed me the beauty of familial bonds, lullabies, gratitude and perseverance.
2. The Lehr Family- PJ and Adi have opened my eyes to the beauty of sibling relationships, storytime at the library, Thomas the Tank Engine and hockey!
3.  The Lysaght Family- Fiona and Sofia have helped me rediscover and learn of my love of puzzles, children's books, Gnome City, twin love, and BANOS!
4.  My trip to New England reminded me how much I value natural beauty, my history in Maine, my college friendships and hugs.
5.  My trip to NYC helped me glimpse city living, rejuvenated me through friendships, frozen yogurt and  my visit to St. Paul's Chapel.
6.  My trip to Dallas renewed my belief in lifelong friends, bright colors and warm weather.
7.  My trip to Florida left me feeling gratitude for my extended family, immediate family, the ocean and sunsets over the Gulf.
8. Diamante Montessori taught me the value of autonomy for children, patience and musical shows!
9. Parent's Day Out showed me how to keep many kids entertained at once and how to enjoy my time with them.
10.  This holiday season has given me the strength and enthusiasm to get ready for Malaysia and make the most of my time left in the States.

All in all, I feel as though these past six months have taught me more than I thought possible.  I am so glad my Fulbright Scholarship did not begin until January.  I have met some amazing people who will be part of my life forever.