What would I have done without all of my incredible friends. I don't have the epic poetry ability that Lucia does, and I've spent more than a year trying to put into words all the things I wanted to say to each of you, but it never seemed to come out right. We have so many memories together: cartoons on the ferry, guacamole, Rubix cubes, Lucia's food, billiards, fencing championships, Popeing around, bus rides and games of Mafia, porgandikook, and so many dinners. It took me no time at all, once I climbed into my last Estonian bus, to miss you all, miss this adventure, and to think of everything I was leaving behind. In less than 6 minutes, with the lights of Riia still glowing, I'd pulled out my phone to start writing it down. I was going to miss not understanding everything, quite possibly the thing I was most worried about when heading abroad; not understanding is a critical part of the adventure, made easier and more fun with all of you around.
Knowing nothing of who I am at home, you all allowed me to be someone a bit different in the best way possible. I have had conversations here I would never have had at home. You all have made me think about things I hadn't before. You have taught me about life and the world, given me a different perspective, answered questions and asked them. And I hope that doesn't stop just because we won't be in the same place anymore. We will certainly have to Skype.
You made Tartu what it was, each of you, and things are already different, and a bit off in my life without you here. Thank you for being everything I didn't know I wanted and needed in friends, and so much more than I expected (since I really hadn't expected to make friends at all).
I will, of course, be alerting you all to my inevitable return to your fabulous continent, and if you find yourself in Alaska (or even in the US, parts of Canada, and Mexico; I'd travel for you) let me know.
