When I used to read blogs of exchange students before coming here, I would expect them to talk about not just everything they did, but how they felt, and how their experiences were changing who they were so that I could get a taste of what it would be like for me.
Now, I realize that most exchange students don't do that because: 1)it would be impossible to describe how even the littlest things can make me stop and think, make me question myself, or make me so thankful for this experience I've been given, and 2) because what I feel and experience here is so personal and deep that I just don't want to even try to talk about it. Most of the ways I've changed can't be seen or understood by anyone other than myself.
It's not a lie when people say that you discover yourself on an exchange. I can testify to that. Seeing another side of the world is such an extraordinary thing that really can't be substituted for anything else.
I have less than three months in Brazil. Time has passed so quickly. It's extremely bittersweet. I feel so conflicted. I miss Alaska a lot, but at the same time I'm so scared to go home. Leaving home was so easy, I knew I would be back in a year. This time, leaving "home" is going to break my heart. This place is my home and my family is, well, my family. Not knowing when I will see the people I love again makes my heart ache. But, knowing that my other family will be there for me when I arrive back in the states is so comforting.
Anyway, here are some photos that I took at a market my class visited. Not the cleanest or best smelling place I've ever visited, but very cool! Enjoy!
If anyone has any questions about my experience, about Brazil, or anything, or if you want me to write about something in particular, don't be afraid to ask! Thanks!
