Tick-tock

I can't imagine returning to England in three weeks... And if there was ever an understatement, that was it... I literally cannot even fathom the idea.

Firstly, there are many things I look forward to being reunited with: my parents, friends, the city of Sheffield, and my beloved football team to name but a few. However, there's a bigger reason for me wanting to stay. The same reason I came here: Whitney Jean Hay.

If truth be told, there's been more ups and downs, more tears, and more obstacles than I had hoped for, but the bottom line has never changed, and it's those strenuous times that have reaffirmed this.

My time in the USA has been nothing short of amazing. I've tried new things such as herding cows and water-skiing. I've grown as a person, discovering new strengths and weaknesses along the way. I've been immersed into the North Dakotan culture, discovering a place of wonderful scenery and the friendliest people you could ever meet. I'm truly glad I came to the least obvious tourist destination in the country, because there's so much here that you can't get from the likes of New York City...

Don't get me wrong, I liked New York - although Chicago is better - but North Dakota has a laid back feel to it that seems rare nowadays. There's very little hustle and bustle, very little crime, and as mentioned, the people are a truly incredible bunch.

Last week my working visa expired, which is another sign that my time here is coming to an end. I've met some great people, both employees and customers, and it'll be a shame not to work at Michael's Restaurant any longer (and receive staff discount on food!). I'll still stop by and say "hi" a few more times.

This all sounds rather depressing, I know. But it really is a time for reflection. Until I return home in three weeks, I don't have a great deal more to do (apart from being the 'house-boyfriend').

Okay, enough 'boo-hoo' for now. I still have another twenty days left in the country, and I'm going to enjoy them. Whitney and I have an awful lot of decisions to make during this time, with even greater obstacles in our way than before. However, obstacles give life excitement, and this is a game i'll continue to play to the best of my ability.