Well, it has finally ended. We are officially back home in Vermont enjoying all the comforts that we missed from the western world. From flushing toilet paper to clean beds, eating raw vegetables and drinking water from the tap, it all seems luxurious now. And I can't tell you how nice it was to unpack our stuff and leave it unpacked.

We traveled a total of 12 months and 20 days. We spent time in 24 different countries, set foot on 5 continents, climbed above 18,000 ft., learned to say hello and thank you in 9 different languages, and utilized more than 22 means of transportation. It has been an incredible trip. And really, it's hard to believe it's over. We feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to undertake such an endeavor. While we are not sure what the lasting effects of the trip will be on us, a few lessons are very clear.

1) Don't believe all that you hear. Most of the world is very safe, and the majority of people are extremely friendly. On the contrary to what certain news sources would like you to think, Muslims are not out to get you.

2) People are generally the same everywhere; it's the governments that don't get along. Sure people may dress differently, eat different foods and speak different languages, but ultimately they want the same things. Find ways to connect with others.

3) Possessions don't define happiness, experiences and memories do.

4) When you eliminate much of the clutter of life, it becomes possible to see.

5) Many of the hardest or scariest things in life often are the most rewarding.

6) Sometimes the hardest part of a great journey is just the first step.

I hope that we can pay back and pay forward the kindness and generosity we have experienced in our travels. And while we had to work hard every step of the way, it is important to note that the world took care of us too. We are ever so greatful at how well it took care of us. On a final note, we encourage everyone to take advantage of what the world has to offer. Be it a Round the World trip or whatever else may be on your bucket list, do not to wait until you are close to kicking the bucket, but go out and live life to the fullest today. After all, the world in an incredibly beautiful place and "Someday" may never come.