Is it really my last day??

This morning began VERY early for me. I forgot to lower the shade before climbing into bed last night, and woke promptly at FIVE this morning to a beautiful sunrise.

It was absolutely gorgeous, and at least now I can say I have seen the sun rise in England. After snapping a few photos, I lowered the shades and hopped back in bed for a few more hours of sleep.

Once I finally got out of the bed and showered, I talked with Milly while eating cereal. It’s funny how much this place still feels like home. A bit later, we were all up and ready to head to the town center. There I shopped with Megan and Harriet, who were very helpful in assisting my every need! I bought two pairs of tights and two blazers from the super-cheap Primark. Finally – some clothes! An hour or so later, we met back up with Debbie and Milly and drove to the suspension bridge for a little walk.

Designed in the nineteenth century by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the bridge is very high and makes for a great scene with Bristol in the background.

The bridge spans 600 feet over a large gorge including an estuary; the estuary is very tidal and was at low tide during our walk and these pictures.

my family from behind. left to right: Megan, Debbie, Harriet, Milly!

Next we went back home for a great lunch and a game of Scrabble. Although we were all far from professionals, I think we did quite well in almost using up every letter with real words! Yay for me and the Dooley girls! Unfortunately though, I had to leave soon after our game was over. Although my visit with them was very short, I am so glad to have been able to see them. The girls have grown SO much, and they are all adorable. Plus, I got some great ideas for my new apartment! :)

Megan, Harriet, Martha, me and Milly!

Martha, Harriet, Debbie, Milly, me!

The bus ride from Bristol to London took a little over two hours; at Victoria station, I hopped on a thirty-minute train to Gatwick. Now I am safe and relaxed in a hotel that is linked to the airport. I believe I have packed for the last time and will be ready to fly out early, early in the morning.

I cannot believe that six weeks can pass by so quickly. This trip has definitely been the trip of a lifetime. I have learned a lot about traveling, other cultures, and myself. I have spent time with Italians, an Argentinian, a Brazilian, Australians, and a Frenchman, plus day-to-day interactions with others randomly. Marco and Thibaut, my Italian and French friends, respectively, helped me get a better perspective on differences between our countries, little things that may not seem like much.  I do not have words to express how great this experience has been. And I will not lie: I could stay here much longer. Deep down inside I am a true traveler; I will not tire of traveling anytime in the foreseeable future. Especially when I realize how short my vacations will be over the next years! :)

Thank you to everyone who I have met along the way. I enjoyed every minute of spending time with each of you! I am excited to be moving to DC, and even more excited about the thought of showing my new city to visitors!