My final two weeks in Wales went by relatively quickly. I had the opportunity to visit St. Fagans National History Museum in Cardiff, Wales, where about thirty different buildings from all over the country have been taken apart, every brick carefully labeled, and then rebuilt in the new location. It was fascinating to learn more about the history and culture of Wales. I also visited the Craig-y-nos castle, which used to belong to an opera singer and then became a hospital, and now offers accommodation and catering for events such as weddings. In addition, I was involved in multiple Christmas parties, dinners and carol services with various people, including the over 50’s group, a ladies carol service for the community, and the mums and tots group. A few days before I left, my host mom took me back to the sea so I could walk the beautiful cliffs of Langland and Caswell Bay one last time.

Farewell

I think that one of the hardest parts of loving people is having to say goodbye. Even though I know I will return to Wales someday and I can stay connected with people via technology, the goodbyes were hard and I miss my host families and the church family a lot. I was so incredibly blessed by all of these people during my twelve weeks in Wales; I don’t think I can truly thank them enough for all the kindness they have shown to me.

Re-entry

The night before I flew back to the States I didn’t get much sleep as we had to leave around 1:30am to get to London in time for my flight. As I was checking my bag at the bag drop the man behind the counter asked me a number of questions about my stay in the UK, such as how long I was there, who I stayed with, how I knew them, when I was expected back home, etc. As a result of my previous experiences in Dublin and London I was a bit stressed after that and as I waited the next three hours for my flight to leave I kept looking over my shoulder half expecting immigration officers to come and detain me again. I was relieved when we finally boarded, and after a somewhat long but otherwise uneventful flight I arrived safely back in the US and had no trouble getting through customs.

Not the end

I have now been back in the States for almost one week. It feels a bit strange to be back, in some ways almost as if I never left. This adventure has left me with much to process, and I know there are many things which I will not understand until later. I know that this has been an experience of a lifetime. I have been amazed at the hand of God and His faithfulness. I have experienced significant peace in my mind. It has been a time of great refreshing and rest. I was reminded that this life is a journey. I am also beginning to wonder what is coming next. I believe that this is not simply the end of one adventure, but the beginning of the next. In the meantime, may the peace of God be upon you, and Merry Christmas!