Some Sangria and a few Spanish Adventures : Wow, one week!

The last time I did a post relating to one week, I had one week until I LEFT the US for Barcelona. My, oh my, how the time has flown! This journey has been absolutely incredible! I have met so many wonderful people; people who have become my family during my time in Spain. I honestly don't know what I would have done without them. From Felicia, Alex, and Kathleen being there for me when I was pickpocketed (and our awesome trip to Rome) to the wonderful trips I had with Dale, Katerina, and Kaycee. I have been so lucky to not only have the experiences I've had during my four months abroad, but to have met so many new people and grow as an individual!

We talked about a quote the other day in Spanish that I feel is very fitting for the situation, "El mundo está en las manos de aquellos que tienen el coraje de soñar y de correr el reisgo de vivir sus sueños."

In essence, this quote is saying that the world is in the hands of those with the courage to dream and don't mind running the risks involved in living out your dreams. I knew from my first day at Peace, and even before I started college, that I wanted to study abroad. I hadn't decided where yet and I had no clue if I would actually have the chance to, but it was a dream of mine and through hard work and patience, I made it a reality. There were definitely a lot of ups and downs during my time in Spain, but I wouldn't trade the experiences and the friends I've made for anything else. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity and for the support that I received from home.

I am hopeful that through this experience I can encourage others to pursue their dream of studying abroad. It is such an enriching experience! I plan on encouraging my future children to study abroad because you gain new perspectives on life, culture, and people.

I wouldn't be where I am today without the love and support of Mom and Dad, and so many other people back home. There are just no words to describe my gratitude (obviously, because I have repeated myself several times). THANK YOU SO MUCH!

Here are some pictures to recap my time abroad! Can't wait to see everyone once I'm home!