So long, farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, goodbye...

today is a sad day. i had to say goobye to my brother Stuart. for those who don't know...Stuart is from New Zealand. We are both exchange students in France and oddly ended up in the same house [super rare thing]...[but a big  blessing]

Stuart leave officially tomorrow early in the morning, but we had to say our final goodbyes today. Because i switched families this past Sunday, anyway, Since he's from the Southern Hemisphere he came January of 2009 and Leaves January of 2010. It is now January of 2010.


We got to live together for four months. An amazing four months filled with laughter, and well laughter. We didn't let ourselves get into arguments, if something came up we would push it aside and not let it affect us. We had too little time together and knew it needed to be spent well. And we did spend it well. I know have a brother, forever, no matter where either of us are on the earth, whether its France, United States, or New Zealand.

Stuart, god he honestly can not know how much he meant to me. This exchange...i started it out in a different state of mind than i am in right now. I can't describe either states of mind, but it's just changed. And Stuart has helped me realize what this year is all about. He's helped me become confident in who i am as a person, as a daughter, as a student, as a sister, as anything i want to be.

He will always be welcome in my home no matter what. I just can't put into words my emotions right now. Stuart, if you are reading this, [and i know i've said this before but..] thank you. You are hte best exchange brother i could have asked for. And as i sat on the tram going home alone this afternoon after saying goodbye, and i felt a tear i tried so hard to fight back slowly roll down my cheek, i knew that an amazing boy with blonde hair, an odd choice in fashion, and a quick tongue had changed my life.

Stuart [again if you are reading this.] look down at your chest. Then a little to the left. and remember, i'll always be there.