Well, as anyone who reads this already knows, I'm back from Thailand.
Saying goodbye to everyone in Thailand was weird. I didn't feel attached to many of the other teachers at my school. It's hard to cross the language barrier. The barrier kept me from making any deep, real friendships. Kept me from adequately saying goodbye, really. I didn't really get to express my thanks and gratitude to all the people there. I didn't get extremely attached to many people…maybe I'm a cold, heartless guy. But the language barrier is the chief culprit, I think. It takes me a long time to get attached to people, in general, and that's exacerbated by the fact that we can't communicate clearly.
During my time in Bangkok, those last 5 or 6 days in Thailand, I was already in go-home mode. I didn't really have any hopes or ambitions for the rest of my time. I was just in wait mode, trying to get through the days and hours until I'd board the plane. Admittedly, that's a terrible way to spend your time abroad. But, in any case, that's how I was.
The plane ride home was 24 hours.
Don't know when this will get posted, but as of the writing I have been in the States for 6 days.
My first meal was a Bacon Cheeseburger from TGIFriday's. I'm not particularly attached to Bacon Cheeseburgers or TGIFriday's, but that's how it worked out. So it goes.
Spent lots of money on my first full day back. Had to buy a new cell phone and some new clothes that fit my (according to the family) emaciated frame. Also bought a new pair of running shoes from a running specialty store, so they fit awesomely and feel great.
It feels great to be back home – better than I thought it would feel. I guess I didn't really understand how much I missed family and friends. I was afraid of the cold, thinking I'd be so accustomed to the heat that I'd be freezing all the time. But I love the cold. Makes the air smell great. Also creates situations in which flannel shirts are appropriate.
I think people can sense that I'm real happy about being home. I've been asked a few times if I'd do it all over again: I certainly would. Thailand was a great experience and I encourage anyone to go for it if that's what they want to do. My current excitement at being home should in no way belittle Thailand or insinuate that I had a terrible time. I didn't. I just like home.
