Study Abroad: The Final Day and Reflections

Today started off with me thinking about my husband Brian, puppy dog Scooter, my family and my friends.

I wondered if they would think I was any different after this trip.  I concluded that while I felt different about things, the core root of who I am will probably always stay the same.  A part of trying new things is to acknowledge and accept that your views may change, or you may learn new nuggets of information to place in your arsenal of experiences.   I know out of everything, that I have found a new found appreciation for my life and the wonderful people within it.

So, on to the final day.

I got ready early and Whitney and I went down for breakfast and to reflect on our trip.  After a short bus ride, we arrived at the airport and checked in. Well, with a minor snafu with my ticket not wanting to scan correctly, I was able to go ahead and take a seat and wait.

For three hours.

It really didn’t seem that long, though.  I worked on some things, read, and just observed people.  The first flight with Aer Lingus was a bit rough, especially with the landing and the man with the super long legs ramming them into the back of my chair.  Haha, everybody has experienced this though, and I just tried to look forward to getting back home.

My flight on Virgin Atlantic went very smoothly, and the lady I sat next to was so kind.  In addition, I watched the movie in flight called, “The Vow.”  I previously said the lady next to me was kind because I boo-hooed during the entire movie. 

My goodness, I was a blubbering mess.

Once I arrived to JFK, I hurried to get my bags and then recheck them in with JetBlue.  I made it up the first set of escalators just fine.  On my second set of escalators…well….

Let’s just say I was over-eager.

My 45 pound bag was half on the same step as me, and I lost my balance.  I thought I was going to be ok, but no such luck.  I fell backwards over the top of my luggage (two steps), and then down another four steps.  Thank goodness for the airport security man at the bottom of the escalator which pressed the stop button and came to my rescue.  I was unfortunately so shocked and out of it that I don’t remember exactly what had happened, but I know that the security guard wanted me to get checked out.  Me and my stubborn self convinced the guard to let me go so I didn’t “miss my flight.”  Looking back now, I think I was so adamant because I was trying to convince myself that I was ok—even amidst the tears swelling in my eyes.

I have a second knee now from my fall.  Hee-hee.

I made it home, and Brian—plus the Scootman—were waiting outside of the airport for me.  Brian took care of me and made sure to dote on me that night, which is exactly what I needed. 

I am so thankful!

He even surprised me with earrings he bought for me from Ireland before he left! 

They even have little shamrocks on them!

Now, I will rest, relax and recover and complete some final projects for our class which enabled me to study abroad.  Overall, I take with me so much from this trip—gaining new friends, experiencing a completely different culture, learning about the pros and cons of the health system in Ireland, viewing such beautiful castles, attractions, and landscapes, and noshing on such healthy food!

So, one last Irish saying:

May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks,
May your heart be as light as a song,
May each day bring you bright, happy hours,
That stay with you all the year long.