Every ending is a new beginning, but all beginnings are hard

There are many blogs and pictures about my last weeks here that I want to put up but this one simply can't wait.

I have just spent my last full day in Birmingham and have said many goodbyes. I had a little farewell lunch and in the evening I saw a production of Midsummer Night's Dream, the cast of which consisted of some of my best friends here. We all then headed for campus for Joe's, the bar at the guild.

I don't remember the last time I cried so much. I tried so hard to hold everything back when saying goodbye to friends that hated tears, but in other instances I just had to let go. I have been crying a lot, I grant you, but I would rather have it this way than me aching to go home and not acknowledging my last moments. It is so hard to say goodbye but the friendships I have made here are so strong, it would be ridiculous NOT to come back and visit.

All I can really say is that I don't know how I got so lucky in making so many amazing friends in one year.

I have adored every moment.
I have had my lows but I do not regret them.
I know I've accomplished so much.
I have made the most of everything.
My heart has ached so much these past few weeks, but I take comfort in the fact that I and everyone I've loved here are going to make sure that we see each other again.

I am glad though that it isn't another week until I leave the country. In the mean time I will be having an undoubtedly wonderful time in Cornwall with Paul and his family.

It has been the most amazing journey. I have soaked up every last bit. All I could think of on my walk back home was how grateful I was for everything. I even found myself whispering "Thank you" to everything around me.

I cry to acknowledge all the wonderful things that have happened and I find myself smiling when I think of my return. I know this is not the end.