Final Letter To The R's

Over the course of my two-year tenure as a Rotary Youth Exchange student, I have had 4 host families in Japan and one in France. I am not into comparing, since I have spent the entire past year being compared to fluent and lovely Andrew. But as of right now, I am closest with my final host family, the French family, that I refer to as the R's. Just before I I made my way back home to America, I wrote them a letter.

Dear Everybody,

I do not know where to begin. Maybe a simple thank you would work, but I d not think that is sufficient. After all, thank you is just a simple three words. And three words do not come close to summing up an entire year in another country.

It all started that month of August 2008, when I arrived at your home on a hot and humid afternoon. I was so nervous because I knew almost nothin about you. I had spoken to L only once on the telephone and learned the following: Chacha, 18, was headed to India for a year with Rotary, Antoine, 14, and Coline, 10, the monster of Fixin. But the eveing, my first night in France, unble to speak a word of Frnehc, I felt relieved. I already knew how much I was goin to like you guys.

It is starnge to think about that first evening. It has thus been ten long months. And I am still here at the Robert's. I am still happy, of course, and for the most part, I think you all are too.

Memories.......

I know I am not very good at showing emotions, so I hope that you all realise just how much you have meant to me over this year. The saddest part about saying goodbye to you is not knowing if I will ever see you all again. My sincere hope is that we all continue to stay in contact over the years. But I know that I we all lose contanct, I am never goin to forget you all and all youhave done for me.

I hope that you all continue to stay in good health and happy with all that life gives you. Good luck for the future and know that you are always welcome wherever I am in the world.

Love Always,

Julie Garner