Today, I left Madrid. I laughed, I cried, I sucked down my last cafe con leche, I hugged my friends and I convinced the cab driver I was totally loca. I guess I've made it a long way. And now, I've come to the realization that the biggest challenges, when tackled, reap the biggest benefits.

Despite my initial disregard for the land of ham, its smokey buildings and lack of internet accessibility, I've decided Madrid is the Best City in the World. I can't wait to return for the 2016 Olympics (I'm sorry Chicago, but if the olympic selection committee doesn't choose Madrid I will seriously question their ability to tie their own shoes). Just seeing the Metro stop and knowing I won't pass by it daily made the waterworks in my eyes flow.

When I started this blog, I chose a quote that I felt was quite fitting for what was to come. "The world is a book and those who don't travel only read one page." Well, I think we all can agree that I've made a dent in the chapters of that book. But, that quote or concept got me thinking about something else...

People say each ending is simply a new beginning, a new chapter of the book that is life. As cliche as it is, I've learned that what has been written, guides you to the next page. You begin to learn that experiences make the best stories and friends make the best characters. And while writer's block or sheer uncertainty may keep you from just diving into a new chapter, once the pen hits the paper or your fingers hit the keyboard, you never want to stop.

But as exciting as the plot may be, you start to realize each chapter must end. The book inevitably shifts style, setting, dialogue or topic. And you, as the writer of your own life, see that with each word, smile, tear and goodbye, you learn.