As of the 14th of March, I have been living in the wonderful country of Turkey for 6 months. As I look back on it, I find it hard to comprehend how quickly the time has seemed to pass. But as I really think in depth about my time here so far, I realize how much I have learned and experienced. I have witnessed, and been immersed in a completely new country and culture which I have grown to truly love. I have learned a new language (which might I add, was not easy at all), and have traveled and had so many adventures which I have shared with you all.
It is scary to think that my time here is starting to draw to a close. I try to avoid that fact, but the big, unavoidable return date comes up from time to time. I am excited to come home and see my friends, family, familiar places and food, but will also miss this place that I will have called home for 10 months.
This past week, I met up with one of my good friends from back home. He came up from Jerusalem, and we spent the day touring around the ancient cities around Izmir. It was so wonderful to see someone I knew from my previous life, but it also made me realize that I miss home much more than I thought I did. We spent a good amount of time talking about the people and places of Portland. It was great to have someone who knew all the places I was talking about, but at the same time, it was disheartening to know that I still had another 3 and a half months before I could return. All moping aside, it was such a wonderful day. The weather was gorgeous, and I don't remember a time I have laughed that hard or that much in a while. I also found it very rewarding to show my friend and his group around my city, and show off the Turkish that I know.
6 months is a huge milestone for anyone. I have collected a lot of memories that will last me a lifetime, and friends that I will cherish forever. Right now, I can't imagine my life any other way. I plan to make the most of the time remaining, and when I come home, I hope to see you all so I can share my stories in person.
Koli gelsin
-Torvald
