My last week in London was spent with me trying to forget that it was my last week in London. It’s weird how quickly five months fly by. When it’s about to end, you start regretting those nights you spent watching Netflix, rather than going into the city. You think that you should have spent more time with the friends you’ve made because who knows when you’ll see them again? But most of all, you want to feel like you really made the most out of where you are- that all in all, this has been something memorable.
I had just left my grandma’s for the last time. There were no tears as I rushed for the train. As it went by, I looked at my grandparents scanning the windows for my waving hand and I could almost giggle. It was my last trip inside England and it had been lovely. I spent three days with my grandparents. The sun shone, the food caused me to drool, and their sarcastic sense of humor always had me break into laughter. Because saying goodbye is something my family has practiced since I was five, it has started to feel normal. "I’ll see you soon," are my go-to parting words now. It makes the sad situation a bit lighter and gives me something to look forward to in the future.
Back in London, I found myself looking more closely at the buildings and architecture, not wanting to forget the impact they have. The city is truly magnificent and I didn’t want to forget the admiration I have for it. I moved in with my aunt and uncle when it was time to leave the dorms and it was nothing short of good company. In their forties, these two never seem to act their age. Many friends are often surprised about how laid back and communicative they are and see them as fellow friends rather than grown-ups. One word I’ve always described them as is: "fun." Now, I lay on their living room floor moaning with remorse because I would be leaving in the morning. Julie, my aunt, sits on the couch snickering as my uncle, Kenji, snaps a photo with his phone. This is normal.
At the airport, I end up having to check two bags rather than one. I don’t remember buying much, but apparently I have a suitcase worth of memorabilia. I walk into security, turned around, blew my aunt and uncle, who were mockingly crying, a kiss and looked forward. I won’t look back now. If I was going to get to the U.S without becoming very, very depressed, I would have to concentrate on the U.S. solely. Any reflection on my time in the U.K. would hurt too much.
I made it to St. Louis unscathed. I will admit, though, I watched a couple movies on the plane and cried with each one. It was rather embarrassing, but oh well.
It’s as if I never left now. Everything is the same. My dad and I watching TV in the living room on Sunday afternoon; my mum and I hanging around the house talking about whatever; seeing my friends and creating those summer memories. It’s all happening like it always would.
I am so so so happy to be around my dog, Rabbit, and cat, BJ, again. We cuddle often. Also, I didn’t realize how much I missed my family. Being able to kiss them on the forehead before bed has never felt so nice.
London seems like a distant, fond memory. I’ll remember it with pleasure, holding the events close as to never forget. If you’re on the edge about studying abroad, I’m telling you to go for it. Absolutely. This is one adventure that you will be so grateful for.
After five months these blogs must come to an end. I hope they came in handy and served you well. Until next time, GS. Cheers.
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