New Orleans is a wonderful city. I enjoyed preparing for this trip, doing the research, and learning about the rich wonderful history of the city, but it is just not home.
I have been planning for this trip for quite a long time, and after this semester of school, I think it is fair to say I deserve to get away. I have never taken a class trip before, and have never been to New Orleans. Every part of this trip excited me and I could not wait to get away.
After a long train trip, we were eager to arrive in New Orleans. There was so much to see and do, and a lot of tours to museums to visit. The weather was so much warmer in New Orleans and the people were happier than they ever appeared to be in Peoria (huge disclaimer here: except for all that rain). The only problem I had with New Orleans, it is not home.
Home is in Spring Bay Il. I live alone with my 2 cats (yes, I am the official cat lady). Although I loved my room mates in the hotel and we have been friends for over a year now, it was rough sharing my "personal space" with anyone. And there is something to be said about routine. Working full time 3rd shift (6p-6:30a) and going to school full time during the day, I was at least able to find a schedule and a routine that works for me and around my call schedule of being a volunteer firefighter and EMT when I was home. While we were very busy in New Orleans, I was so happy to finally be boarding the train on our last day and heading home.
I had been on the phone with my dad all morning giving him the update on where we were. We were actually ahead of schedule when I made the planned call from Bloomington on the bus, telling him to be ready. He picked us up at the bus station, and when I laid eyes on him after being gone for over a week, I realized he is my true best friend. I am always happy to have my dad, and value every day that I have with him.
When I finally entered my house, the first thing I did was hit the shower (ah, my shower). I unpacked my bags and did a load of laundry. I learned that my cats are capable of carrying a grudge as they did not want anything to do with me for about an hour, but after that hour, I was not able to give them enough attention. My sister called me to check in and see how the trip went, making me realize even more, that no matter where I go or for how long I am gone, I am blessed to have my family and my home. It is good to be home. There is no place like home.
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