Home Is Where the Heart Is

Flowers from my students 

A little over 6 months ago, I was on my way to Hungary, ready for a new adventure in a new country. I left behind my family and friends so I could explore Eastern Europe and have an amazing experience. I have learned so much during my time here, but that time is quickly coming to an end. On Friday, August 29th, I will be returning to the US. Although I am very excited to rejoin my family, I know I will miss some of the wonderful people I have met while in Hungary. 

Moncsi, Ricsi, and I 

Ancsa and I 

First, I'm going to miss my students. I know that sometimes they found my class boring and simply had no desire to converse in English, but they were still nice about it, and I really enjoyed talking to them. I consider many of them to be my friends, so it will be hard to say goodbye. There were numerous times they could cheer me up when I was having a bad day, or make some comment that made me laugh. I can't wait to see what great things they accomplish after high school. They were a lot of fun, and I know I will miss them a lot. 

A selfie in front of Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna

Secondly, I am going to miss the other teachers, especially my fellow English teachers. Although I always had a ton of questions for them, they remained patient with me, which I really appreciated! Plus, they invited me places, and helped make me feel welcome in my new surroundings. It was a joy to work with them, and I will miss them as well. 

Hiking in Romania

I have also had the opportunity while here to travel to a lot of new places, for which I am very grateful. I met a past professor for a day in Budapest, went hiking in Romania with Szilvi, spent a few days in Vienna, went to Poland, spent a week with my aunt in Rome, and went to Ireland for 10 days with my family. It has been a blast, and I'm so glad I was able to have this opportunity.  

Posing in Poland 

I read a quote a long time ago on Pinterest that said "I have left my heart in so many places," and that message resonates a lot with me. I still miss all the amazing people I met while I lived in England, most of whom are either still in England or spread out in the United States. Some of my friends who have also graduated from Bluffton are moving across the country as well. And, now a piece of my heart will always be here in Sarkad with the quirky and interesting people I have met on my adventure. I am excited to return home, but I know I will miss my Hungarian family as well. 

So, thanks for everything Hungary! It's been real.