Homecoming.

Although the goodbyes started last Thursday with my friends leaving, it wasn't until today that it hit me. I'm actually leaving Sevilla. I stopped by CIEE to say goodbye to whatever staff was around. As I was closing the door, it finally sunk in that it was probably the last time I would see the palacio for a while. I think one of the things that struck me the most about CIEE was how small it felt. There were a decent number of students, in that I still saw people I didn't recognize by the end, but the staff knew our names, how we were doing, etc. They were invested in our experiences here in Sevilla, and wanted to make sure we had everything we needed. Yeah, there are some things that weren't run well, but that's more a fault of the program overall than the individual staff members. Going back to UW-Madison will feel weird, where you can easily become a number again instead of an individual face. Being here has made me want to return to campus and create those relationships with professors where they know your work and who you are.

I gave my senora and her grandkids some gifts today. I bought my senora flowers, along with the bath products that my mom had brought over when she visited. The kids received a slinky, an Eric Carle book, glow bracelets, some candy, and a Hello Kitty necklace (for Laura), among other things. They loved the gifts! I was glad to provide them with a few things that will (hopefully) last a while, and that they enjoy playing with. I'm going to miss Laura- I asked for a picture with her, and she hopped up into my lap and wrapped her arms around me.