update

The amount of twists and turns in my past 8 months has been unreal. I've never had so many switches and plans (that I have had to act on). Figuring out life is fun, exhausting, exciting and unsettling with all the waiting. all the highs and lows. And there are so many outside factors.

I initially was set on returning to Spain for another teaching opportunity with a different private school - with a contract lined up and just waiting for what I thought was a simple signed paper - 3 months later, I finally receive the dreaded words. That feeling when all your secret thoughts come true and there is nothing you can do. "Sorry we can't hire you. Goodluck". My heart sunk. 

It's really been such a whirlwind that I just have photos and a few good stories from the past few months. 

I took a trip to Peru with some friends and have never been more challenged - physically and mentally. Walking for five days never seemed so difficult, but we did it and got to see some pretty amazing views and experience some cool things. 

 

We took a Fall trip to Michigan to celebrate Sis turning 21!!! It was full of colorful leaves, rainy wine tours, and lots of fun!!! 

  

 Headed back to Spain (to retrieve all my stuff and see my favorite people). I was reminded again of how much I love Valencia and those families. The trip was "warm" and so good for my soul, but much too short. I can't wait to go back, hopefully longer!!! 

BUT it was cut short because I had the opportunity to spend a few days in Prague, Czech Republic with one of my favorite childhood friends!!!! And it was magical and worth all the extra travel. To experience a piece of Europe with someone you love is so so amazing and highly recommended. It was a perfect 30 hours filled with delicious food and a slight snowfall around the Christmas Markets. 

The downfall to the snowfall - was my flight being delayed causing me to miss my bus once arriving in Barcelona therefore GETTING STRANDED IN BARCELONA AROUND 10PM when my flight home to America was leaving at 8am the next morning from Madrid.... the panic and stress that brought was unlike anything I have ever experienced. Pros - it showed me how amazing my family and friends are who helped me look up different flights and help me make decisions to get home safely. 

I also was able to check 3 things off of my bucket list 

- #104. travel on wowair airlines

- #35. go to the airport and buy a plane ticket for the next flight out

(The next flight was to Chicago with a long layover in Iceland and I bought it whilst standing in line for check in) 

Iceland was beautiful can't you tell???

It was pitch black for my whole layover minus 3 hours. A perfect place to nap and highly recommend the airport. (great couches with no arm rests)

 

Finally got my Michigan Christmas and I cannot say it enough of how much I love my family. They are incredible in all ways and the most fun to be around for all occasions, whether it is all watching White Christmas or playing card games or going bar hopping in Saugatuck. 

Recently returned from a quick New York trip (my first time!!!) with some amazing friends and freezing weather.

Got a few more trips up my sleeve for this year but excited to see where 2019 takes me. I'm expecting some more highs and probably a few more lows. But I know I have the most amazing group around me and anything will be okay with them.