the last post. cue the tears.

Many of you probably stopped reading this. Actually, all of you probably stopped reading this. I have already informed you that I have in fact returned to the good ole US of A so what would keep you hooked on this wonderful piece of literature?

I am currently back in Champaign, Illinois working up a storm at both my old jobs before school starts again in two weeks. Europe left me with big dreams and a small bank account. This combination is in no way good. Obviously, I am trying to fix that.

I would like to thank all my readers (wherever and whoever you may be). I was surprised to hear who some of you were but excited to know that everyone seemed to enjoy reading. You may not realize it but that is one thing that really helped me keep up with this. It is hard moving away from all your family and friends especially when it is a place where you hardly know the language or culture. Reading your comments through this or emails helped keep my spirits high and lowered my homesickness. (Yes, I was a little homesick. Who wouldn't be?) However, that in no way means I regret any part of my time in Europe. I met some amazing people, had once in a lifetime experiences and got to see some jaw dropping places. In a nutshell, I wouldn't trade it in for anything else (except maybe a job when I graduate...). It has become a part of who I now am and shaped my thinking to a different level. I now have dreams of going to many other places in the world. The list is constantly growing and evolving. I now have faith that I can do just about whatever I put my mind to.

I also want to encourage each and every one of you to consider taking a big adventure as well. Whether it is to Europe, South America, Asia or even in USA, don't let something little get in the way of what you always wanted to do. If it is on your bucket list, don't be scared to finally cross it off. (I got to!) You won't regret it if you don't want to. You are the only one that can make that experience worthwhile.

Well, enough with that and now on to other things. I made an executive decision to maintain a blog after this experience. It won't highlight the amazing places I visited because I won't be going anywhere cool to be completely honest. Instead it will be more of a personal blog that showcases some of my finer thoughts. That thinking may range from actual intelligent ones to straight up moronic ones. We all have our blond moments. I just might have them more than average. If you want to start reading it, send me an email at lbescho2@gmail.com and I'll send you the link. I look forward to hearing from you on the comments section. If not, thanks again and I hope to see/talk with you soon!

Hope everyone is enjoying the new year!

The last Ciao!,
Laura