Bittersweet

Goodbyes are over. The flight was long. I cried for five seconds on the way to the airport, then distracted myself with the business of traveling. Dane and I got a massage at the airport in Chicago, to pass time. It was amazing. American Airlines has ridiculously small seats, which makes an 8hr flight seems twice as long. I started to feel sad again at some point on that flight, and cried again. Dane was nice enough to pretend not to notice. I looked out the window and watched the most beautiful sunrise I've ever seen. There was no land to be seen, only sky, clouds, and water. The clouds changed from purple to red to gold...each phase just as wonderful as the last...I just wanted to jump out of the plane and float around in them. Now I am in Holland. Luuk's family is trying very hard to make me feel welcome and part of the family, a gesture that is greatly appreciated. Seeing Luuk again was somewhat strange, actually, but very good. I think the idea that this time it's not just a visit is affecting the way I see things here. Hugs are amazingly comforting. And I'm getting enough hugs to make up for the past 8 months... It's good to be here. I can't wait till it feels like home...