I’ve realized and learned a lot here, which has caused me to change more than I had initially realized. I am so grateful for this. I often think to myself, that this experience alone will change my path in life forever. If I hadn’t done this exchange, my previously outlook on life would have caused me to make many different decisions that I think I would have regretted. I live my life to the fullest, but more wisely now, I think. I truly hope that when I return to Canada I will not instinctively resort back to my old mindset.
But anywho, since this is my last blog of the decade I want to reflect back on the wonderful things that made me the person I am right now, but these are not all experiences on my exchange. For example my parents, who raised me to not only be able to handle such an adventure, but how to appreciate it and learn from it. Some people really do live through their exchange without taking anything from it, I’m so happy that’s not me.
My parents have both given me great advice while I have been here which I often think back to. My mom once told me “feel it, babe” when I was sad. I laughed at the time, because that’s such a typical thing for her to say. But she was so right; it’s important to feel everything, and I think back to what she said not only when I am sad, but every time I feel an emotion. Not to mention, I am super lucky to have parents I enjoy talking to this much! My god I could keep them on the phone for hours sometimes. I raised good parents.
My host family here has also given me such amazing experiences, which I have mentioned in a previous blog. For example I realized that I really like working in the nature, and with animals. Some people would be really pissed off to have to get their ass out of bed and go clear some trees in the forest, or do some cow stuff, but I find myself really enjoying it (most of the time) (because yesterday I had to walk in the cow stall with all the poop) (and then I realized there was a hole in my boot!). I’m not saying I want to be a farmer, but I find peace in the work, which I would have NEVER imagined for myself when I was living in Canada. I also have great taste in wine now, so please don’t give me wine as a gift, I will most likely be disappointed by your selection. Just kidding!
I keep great company around me here too. People that make me happy, laugh, and people I can actually hold a conversation with, because that’s a struggle sometimes. My exchange would not be the same without great friends. Sadly, one of my best friends returned to America, but my times with him were good. 
Soon I will change host families, and live new experiences and challenges. I’m happy that I get the chance to do so, even though I will miss some aspects of my current host family. That’s the fun of it all though!
Lastly I would like to thank you all for always supporting me! It really means a lot to see that. I wish there was another way to thank you, like to send cheese and chocolate but unfortunately no can do. I think if I didn’t have so many people supporting me and cheering me on, perhaps that would have also changed my exchange. It’s nice to go through this knowing that a lot of people care, so thank you.
Merry Christmas everyone! Until next year!
