Gypsy feet

I just lived in Germany for the last year. You probably already knew that. You can read any of my old posts between August 2011 - July 2012 to catch a glimpse into what that year was like. Some days were full of grand adventure! Some days were full of gloominess. As I pour my efforts into trying to readjust to any amount of normalcy now that I'm back in DC, I can think back over my time abroad and see how my life has changed -- how the 350 days in a foreign place were some of the most challenging and consequently formative days of my life.

Anyone who has studied abroad, or spent a significant amount of time away from "home", will tell you that it's an experience which will be with you for the rest of your life-- that not only do you learn about other people and other cultures, but you learn about yourself. You change. You lose part of yourself. You grow. You become stronger. It is the cheesiest summary for what happens to you when you take a leap of faith and live as a foreigner. But it's all truth. And it's the best way to describe an experience that really can't be put into words. It'll change you.

There are a surprising number of people in my life who have begun adventures of their own in the last year, and more who are getting ready to set sail. Actually, I guess it's not surprising since one's friends are often a reflection of oneself, and Lord knows I have a mad case of the adventure bug. I'm so proud of each and every one who has taken a leap and tried on the unknown. Denmark, Washington State, Peru, New Orleans, New York, Paris, Germany, Boston, London, Morocco, new offices, new schools, new babies, dinners alone, learning how to make friends, feeling that unavoidable apprehension but then knocking it out of the park, or maybe not, but at least trying... change is scary. But it's defining.

I learned a great deal while living in Germany for a year, and much of what I learned is personal-- experiences in growing up that are meaningful only to me. That I can apply only to my life. But I also made some realizations that I think I can share, and I at least hope that everyone knows I'm here to support you on your adventure, too.

Stopping to not only smell the roses but sit amongst them too. Portland.

• Don't be afraid to learn how to make friends. We take having family and friends nearby for granted, and when you're away, it can be unnerving to realize that making friends is hard
• Listen to the advice from others. Lean on them. But mostly just try things out for yourself.
• Don't give up ever. You can make it over any hurdle, even if you have to lift up both legs and slowly climb over.
• Write things down in a journal, in letters, in post cards, maybe even on a blog. Not only is it really fun to go back later to hear what was on your mind, but it's a good way to sort out the many thoughts zipping around in your head.
• Smile. It makes you feel good, really!
• Bring a small piece of home. Maybe it's a childhood stuffed animal, a family portrait, a Christmas album... there will be moments where having home in the same room as you will be just what you need. 
• Stop to smell the roses. You're doing something AMAZING in your life right now. Right at this very moment. Be sure you stop and look around and just simply soak it in!