As usual, I am loving my time in Vienna. But lately, now that the rush and excitement of the unknown have faded, I am starting to miss things about America, about home. I miss ice cubes. I miss getting water as a main drink, not in addition to kaffee. I miss freedom and understanding everything. But that is what you pay for with study abroad, that feeling of "oh-my-god-I-am-a-scared-shitless-and-do-not-have-a-clue-what-is-going-on".
I've always been of the mind that living permanently anywhere outside of America would be great. That Europe would blow my mind and I would never want to leave. Truthfully, I really do enjoy Vienna, the thrill of living in a big city and forging through the streets like an angry New Yorker, trying foreign food, and drinking at cafes. But I also miss the simplicity of Oregon, the delicious water, the fresh air, and the friendly people. I probably sound like a typical American when I say I love the US, but there is something to be said about enjoying where you come from. I am positive the Viennese feel the same way, since they are a proud people who will boast their Viennese heritage, even if it only goes back a generation or two.
I guess I'm at a point where I've left the honeymoon phases and feel the need to nitpick and compare.
Vienna is truly an exciting and beautiful city and I am so grateful to be here studying, but its not quiet home yet...
I think I read about this phase in the "how to prepare for your study abroad trip" booklet. You're supposed to take a deep breath and enjoy comparing the differences while keeping in mind that this adventure will seem all to short when it's over...
ReplyDeleteWe miss you here, too.
OXOXXO
What kind of freedom, are you referring to? I'm just asking because, there are definitely differences here in Russia, ESPECIALLY regarding gender roles...what kind of freedoms don't you have in Vienna??? It will be so interesting for me to go there, I can't wait!!! Wow...my english sucks, so many commas. xx
ReplyDeleteI saw your blog on AHA's web page.
ReplyDeleteI'll say I concur. I've sort've reached a similar point in my travels.
As much as I hate to be judged simply for being an American... I am one, and there are a great deal of beautiful things that come with it. Don't get me wrong, I still have SO MUCH to do in the remaining 2 months I'm here... however, I will be happy to return to the Northwest.
Right now, I miss the leaves changing colors in Oregon. Also, I miss asparagus and the stars.
I guess by freedom I mean that feeling you get when you live on your own. My host mom is very relaxed and doesn't restrict us, but I am a guest in someone's home, not a resident.
ReplyDeleteI cannot wait for you to come Annie. I can't wait to hear all about St.Pb(&j) hehe