My Best Friend Pia Dorn

Last night, I had to say goodbye to my best friend Pia Dorn of Bonn, Germany, after a semester of laughs, love, and hugs. We had great parties, fun get-togethers, and watched some good movies together.

I had tried not to think of what it meant for Pia to leave as the date, January 16, 2009, drew closer with each day. I would say to myself, "I'm not going to think about that now..." because I always get emotional about these types of things.

I'll never forget the great times I had with Pia, and will keep in touch with her forever.

Much love to you Pia.

My Host Brother

After a week and a half of having my new host brother, Can Aran, living in my house, I have learned a lot.

The most obvious thing I have learned is the fact that he is now the oldest kid in my family, instead of me. I am no longer the alpha, no longer 'The Princess' as my mum puts it. I am not the strongest, and I don't get front seat--shotgun--all the time anymore. I can't say that I like it, but I'm adapting to it. Or trying to adapt at least...

My brother, friend, and I pulled a minor prank on him this past weekend. He had told me that he didn't want to wake up early, that he wanted to wake up at 12:30, whereas I wished to wake at 8:30 and go to my (now our) grandparent's house. He said something along the lines of, "No, I want to sleep, and if you wake me up early--" because I had threatened that I would "--you will find out that I can be an angry brother."

So, of course, I was baited, and had to wake him up early.

We surrounded the walls of his room and beat on his walls, and yes, he was VERY angry.

Now I am awaiting payback... and am frightened.