Christmas in Poland is a time where many of the nation’s core values are revealed: family, tradition, friendship, and faith. It is fascinating to witness the same holiday celebrated in such different ways, and I’m so grateful to have shared this time with such loving and thoughtful people.

It’s been while…. I am alive!

This was one of the coolest nights of my life. I was expecting a one-hour meeting at a conference table with some tea where we would discuss differences between American and Polish culture and talk about the FLEX Abroad program. I did not at all expect some Great Gatsby party held at the Ambassador's mansion.

Exactly 31 days ago, I said goodbye to everything and everyone I've ever known, getting on a plane to DC, filled with emotions of confusion, sadness, and complete awe of what the hell I just did to my life. Or maybe what life has done to me.

I am beginning to face some challenges, which is obviously expected when traveling abroad by yourself at fifteen to a continent that is missing every single person that has ever been important in your life, with a language that consists of sounds you never knew your mouth could make.

Today didn't have the best start because I was running late for my Polish language class, I was feeling completely exhausted, and I was missing home a little bit

My host family thought that I would be home by 6:00pm. I got lost. ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌

I have already learned so much, and I have been in Poland for less than 48 hours!