I learned so much, more than I ever expected to. Not just facts and information about the places I went to, but many many things about myself and my place in the world.

The world seems a lot smaller now. I feel like I can take on anything. People far away no longer seem like strangers.

I went at a very politically and socially charged time in Europe, as I'm sure you've deduced. There was the Lisbon Treaty debate in Ireland, Euro 2008, and Bush's visit.

My government teacher and I talked to a bunch random people in Dublin about their opinions of the Lisbon Treaty. They all seemed a bit surprised, but quite relieved, that Americans like us actually cared. I really felt like I was part of something, you know?

Dublin was my favorite part of the trip, but Edinburgh was a close second. I love Ireland for many different reasons, most of which are difficult to explain.

I definitely want to go back to London, because we only got a day and a half there. There are so many things I have yet to see. We only got to St. Pauls, the Tower, and Harrod's.

I'm missing the cool weather and the daylight right about now.

I can't say anywhere I went was perfect, because nowhere's perfect. But that's life and you get over it. The little imperfections about a place can sometimes make you like it all that much more.

Now I want to see what else the world holds in store. I want to see more, I want to go even farther away.

I will post pictures later, I promise.

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Stuff I've written
*For the wretched of the earth, there a flame that never dies
Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise*