Juliana says farewell… for now

Well the time has come, and it felt SO much faster than I thought it would. Juliana went back to the States.  The vacation is over and it’s back to reality for the both of us. I asked her to write one more blog entry after she got home, I’m sure everyone wouldn’t mind hearing from her again 🙂  

So here it is, the farewell!

I don’t even know where to begin to describe the rush of emotions that hit me as I neared home and realized my three weeks taste of world traveling was coming to an end.

Initially, I reflected on all the things that we had accomplished in such a short time… the major tourist attractions, yacht birthday surprise, traveling to Bahrain, seeing old friends, Atlantis, authentic family dinners and all of the wonderful people that made it happen.

Then of course my brain went right to stressing about starting a new job and finishing applications for a master’s program but led to thinking about how excited I was to see my family, my favorite flat nosed little pug, and just be surrounded by the comforts of home.

I couldn’t help but think about leaving Katie and how she isn’t getting to settle back into the comforts of her own home. I felt a deep sense of guilt and helplessness. As many fun and amazing times as we have had, I know this decision and distance is a blessing in disguise.

I, along with many others, would give anything to be able to have her and Wafiq back here in the same city or at the very least the same country.

Then I think about what an amazing opportunity this is for all of us and I am so grateful. I have fewer distractions, which is truly bitter sweet, to fuel me to pursue my career goals while they have an opportunity to expand their horizons and strengthen or define a unique and amazing relationship.

I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and we have all been faced with major events and choices that will impact our futures. Only time will tell what the outcomes will be. In the mean time, I can only pray for determination, wisdom, and strength for us to follow our heart against all challenges, no matter how difficult they may be.

Until then, Katie and Wafiq, I miss you guys so much and can’t wait until our next excursion!

<3