Week 10: Home Sweet Home

After having just arrived back from Sicily the day before I felt like a jetsetter heading to the airport to go home as this would mean I had been in 3 different islands in 3 days. After having been away for over 2 months I was looking forward to getting home and being reunited with my family and friends again. It was a jammed packed week fitting in time to see everyone and I was glad I made the trip home as my boyfriend Chris was being baptised and I also got to celebrate (a bit early but nevertheless) my dad, sister in-law and my own birthday with my family which I really enjoyed.

Portstewart sunset

Home Sweet Home

Margaret Elizabeth Sangster writes that “There’s nothing half so pleasant as coming home again.” I agree with her as although I have enjoyed living in Malta there’s something to be said about coming home and being surrounded in familiarity and home comforts. Being home made me appreciate Northern Ireland much more with its natural beauty, although this was helped by the warm weather I had when at home, a rarity in NI. This meant I was able to go on Chris’ motorbike, something I have never done before which scared me at first however after a bit of time I got used to it and enjoyed amazing views around Donegal, one of my favourite places.

First time for everything!

Donegal

Blain (2012) states that “true friendship isn't about being inseparable it's being separated and nothing changes.” Catching up with my friends was definitely a top priority of mine when I was at home. My friends have been so good in keeping up contact with me when I have been away, however I still missed them lots and catching up with them face to face and having our normal laughter and fun was so good. As I was at home for Easter Sunday I enjoyed the traditional trip to Portstewart, meeting lots of old faces, including catching up with some of my classmates from Stranmillis who hadn’t gone on Erasmus and had just finished teaching practice and I made sure not to forget an ice-cream from Morelli’s!

Road Trip!

Amazing friends

Excited for Morelli's

Exploring Dunree Fort

I enjoyed some quality time with my family also, as although I appreciate skype a lot it’s just not the same as being face to face. It was great being back to my mum’s cooking and washing too which I will appreciate much more after having to do it for myself. I particularly enjoyed going out for Sunday lunch with my whole family and enjoying the biggest Sunday dinner I have had in a long time! My attempt at Sunday lunch in Malta didn’t quite compare! I can truly say “The love of a family is life’s greatest blessing.” I am so thankful for the amazing family I have and the support they have provided me whilst being away in Malta.

Reunited with Rosie!

Family!

Time to say goodbye!