Okay, I'm not really coming home. I hope I didn't make any hearts skip a beat with that statement. I have, however, just cracked open the Black Book, those of you close to me know what I'm talking about, and it has left me full of gratitude that I'm not sure I deserve. I have officially been away from home for more than a year, and it is only upon reading the generous messages and comments that I truly feel grateful for my family and friends. There is a quote of sums up the way I feel - "In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich."
The past year hasn't been easy, but nothing worth having is ever easy, so I'll continue the work that's before me with the same drive and motivation that got me here. It's important for everyone who has ever been a part of my life, whether big or small, to know that you are with me in all that I do and everywhere I go. I echo the words of my friend Eric Artemus when I say that you and I are all participants on this mission too. Whether it be only in spirit you are with me, and for that I am truly indebted.
What else can I say, other than this is La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, and it's truly an impressive work of art. There are so many intricate details inside and out that it's difficult to fathom that this building is actually going to be functional - one day. It's also hard to believe that construction of this church has been taking place since 1882, yes, you read it correctly, and it isn't expected to be finished until 2026 - that's if the money continues to roll in! Overall, Barcelona has to be one of my top five favorite cities. There is so much to see and do, and there's a nice blend of historical relevance and modernness to the city that makes it so attractive. The city is beautiful, the people are beautiful, so what more can you ask for?! :)
I made a short trip to Veliko Turnovo for a couple of days, which was nice because the weather is now warm. The trees and flowers are in full blossom, so the place is very lush at the moment. 
Finally, I made a quick trip to Istanbul, Turkey for a few days, and it was amazing. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect in Istanbul, even though I had heard good things about the place, but it exceeded my expectations. Like Barcelona, there is so much to see and do that it's difficult to decide what to do from one thing to the next. The picture above is the Hagia Sophia (pronounced Ayia Sophia) and it was once a cathedral when Istanbul was known as Constantinople, and later converted into a mosque. 
If anyone's interested in visiting Barcelona hit me up! Istanbul, I highly recommend, but I don't think either place will disappoint. Both cities offer different cultures and sights that make them attractive to anyone who's interested in traveling and brooding their perspective on the world. If you're interested in seeing more photos from Barcelona or Istanbul, or Bulgaria, check out my Picasa page - click on the link in the right hand pane.
Quotes of the Day:
"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science. He to whom this emotion is a stranger, who can no longer pause to wonder and stand part in awe is a good as dead; his eyes are closed." - Albert Einstein
"Where there is darkness crimes will be committed. The guilty one is not merely he who commits the crime, but he who caused the darkness." - Victor Hugo
Beats on Repeat:
"I Miss You (like the deserts miss the rain)" - Everything But The Girl
"Rush Over" - Marcus Miller & Meshell Ndegeocello
Peace, Love, and Understanding...
