Being in a foreign country for a couple of months, all by yourself, is not easy. I have done it before, and although it was great fun each and every time, it was never easy. You basically start from scratch, in regards to everything: living, working, getting around – making friends. (And trying to figure out which kind of milk you like, when you have something close to 20 different choices at the local supermarket.)

Being the foreigner is a great experience, and I would not want to trade it for anything in the world. Because in every country I have lived in, there have always been people like Kristal and Jesse. People who would so openly share their lives, passions, dreams and homes with me, that I just do not have the words to express how grateful I am.

Kristal met Jesse in High School, years ago. And while they were just friends in the beginning, they both soon began to realize that their souls were connected by a lot more than just friendship. I may not have known them for a long time, but I am pretty sure that after all these years, they still look at each other the exact same way the did back when they started dating: truly, madly, deeply in love.

On a beautiful, hot Saturday, the two lovebirds showed me around the region they live in. We had a great time. A GREAT time. They took me to a chocolate factory (I know! How awesome!), vineyards and the place where Jesse proposed to Kristal a few years ago – you could not have picked a more beautiful spot, Jesse. 🙂 We laughed about flying worms and rainbow machines, stood in amazement as we encountered not just one, but two rare Australian birds (I won’t even try to spell their names here, but let me assure you, they’re pretty special) and ended the day at the place that makes my heart oh so very happy: the beach.

Kristal, Jesse – my English may just not be good enough, because I simply cannot find the words to express how thankful I am to have met you. You are some of the most beautiful souls that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and I will never forget all the things you did for me while I was here. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart. You will always and at any time be more than welcome at our home and I cannot wait for the Skype tour through your new house. 🙂 I am sure you will make it an amazing home!

Much love,

Andrea