Exchanging my bike for boots

It's my last day in Delft. I haven't really sat down and thought about leaving until now. There were just so many exams, errands, and moving out tasks to take care of that I haven't let the emotions kick in yet. But now that my room is empty except for my backpack, hiking boots, and trusty pink water bottle, it's hitting me. I'm sad to leave, but ready for what's next in my life.

To my Wave friends, thank you for making my exchange experience as Dutch as possible. It would not have been the same here without such a fun club. I guess swimmers stick together, all around the world. I'll never forget the water scooter song and late nights at the pool bar after practice. To be honest, I think I will convert back to water as my post-work out hydration. I'll leave the beer for you! I did most of my traveling with Wave while I was here, so thanks for showing me a great time in the Netherlands, Germany, and London. My last request is that you don't use the term "87.5% effort" to describe how fast to swim a 50 ;)

To my exchange/Erasmus friends, it's been amazing to meet people from all over the world. I love how everyone is up for anything. Just post an idea on our facebook group, and suddenly 10 people want to join your activity. I've never facebooked this much in my life! You are always welcome in Texas (or Colorado as of December!), and I'll show you how Texas has much more than cowboys and guns. I know you still don't believe me, so you'll have to see for yourself. Safe travels... I can't wait to see everyone's summer pictures. Johanna, I have to say a real goodbye to you in the next 6 hours and I don't want to think about it. I can't wait to visit you on September.

To my petroleum friends, I wish our Germany field trip would have happened earlier in the year. Also, I think I will demand a 15 minute coffee break every 45 minutes for the rest of my life. America is missing out! Good luck with your final year of your masters. Our industry is such a small world, that I am not worried about seeing you again!

I'm writing this post from my iPhone, which I plan to have turned off for my camino, except to check in with my family to let them know we're okay. I know many people dream about doing this pilgrimage for decades, so I feel very lucky and privileged to be able to do it now. How often do you have 3-4 weeks free? I'm excited to see what God has in store for Sarah and me this trip. Please keep our safety in your thoughts and prayers, and we will be back in the US to share our experiences the second week of August!

Peace,
Becca