Saying Goodbye

I left June 16, 2013 at 6:00pm.

It's weird to think, but I've completely eradicated Italy of my presence. After a total of 104 days, I can safely say that I've lived in another country. Probably not for long enough, but I lived, and I survived. I'll be returning to life as usual on Thursday, which is the weirdest part of all. I can't say I loved every moment of my trip, but I think it has become an invaluable experience that I'll be able to reference for the rest of my life. It has become a part of me.

I haven't cried except for a close call two times when I was talking to a close friend on the phone the day before I left and again when he came to say goodbye in person. I've been very good about crying, I suppose.

I feel like I'm usually quite the sentimental person, but leaving didn't really feel like saying "goodbye." Years ago I'm sure it would have felt more permanent, but with the prevalence of facebook and free texting apps I feel like I will being seeing many of my friends again, Milan or elsewhere. We live in such a connected world and I'm lucky to live in one of the prime destinations for international and business travel so I'm sure I will be seeing plenty of these friendly faces very soon.