My sister gave me this luggage tag as I was packing my bags for Barcelona 4 months ago.
I burst into tears and pretty sure begged my parents not make me go.
I wanted more than anything, for someone to say,
"Sorry you can't go.
You have to stay in the comforts of your own home, surrounded my your loving family and wonderful friends, in a country where you speak the language and feel safe and comfortable."
I was terrified.
Terrified for a lot of reasons
Missing my family, friends, unsure of what my plans were, how I would make friends, not speaking the language, where I would live, etc.
But mostly I was scared because I knew that no matter what my experience was in Barcelona,
I would not be quite the same person when I returned.
Because experiences like this change you.
Probably not enough for anyone else to notice. But I do.
See ya in California!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Probably not enough for anyone else to notice. But I do.
See ya in California!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

















































