7 Months. Wow

Oh...

!!!

No idea what to feel, so I picked up reading books again to distract myself-though it’s more like I inhale them. What can I say? I’ve gained a special appreciation for my native language. A good book has always been my secret getaway. A whole new world to explore, and it’s right at my fingertips!

Life is good. I’m alive and well. I’m working on myself. School is nice. Just finished the school musical. Met new friends, quite possibly some of the loveliest I’ve ever had.

Part of me is thrilled to be returning to

America this summer, but another part hopes it never comes. This is such a strange feeling!! I’ve read about exchange things like this before but never fully believed in it. Things were too draining for me to actually think this place could become a home.

But tonight when my swedish grandparents surprised out of the blue at the theater with flowers and loving hugs, I realized I’d grown to love this place-to love them. And with that inner peace I had craved (more than sleep) I for Lord knows how long, I felt something I hadn’t for a long time: serenity. The best part? I was surrounded by some of the sweetest friends I’d ever had. I really am living a dream.

On my midnight bike ride home, I realized something else too...

snippets from february

varberg sweden 2020

I had never imagined in my wildest dreams that I would actually get to live in Sweden someday; much less get attached to it. The food, the people, the lessons I’ve learned—it’s changed me. My heart has changed.

Also when I went on the September hiking trip to Åre, I met lots of exchange students that were 7 months in. The time went by so fast.

General Info:

Two Australian exchange students arrived in January

I switched over winter break from host family 1 to host family 2. I remain especially close with host family 1 as I grow closer to host family 2. Making new friends

Joined a gym (current host mom runs it). Actually love it. Haven’t stopped going since.

Speaking confidently in Swedish

On my phone way less (anyone that knows me this is so ordinary feat. Took many Buddha books to get here)

Turned 16(!!!) beginning of February