When I look back on my childhood, it sometimes feels like a big dream. It's definitely normal, but the part about living in China for two and a half years always makes it so extraordinary. That's the part that doesn't make it seem real. Yesterday, I saw this quote "I always wonder why birds stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on Earth. Then, I ask myself the same question" by Harun Yahya. I am grateful that I was given the opportunity to go out of the USA with my family when I was only in middle school. Here are some of the most cherished memories that I have made while living on the other side of the country.

1. Meeting New People

I'll admit that one of my biggest fears was attending an academy instead of a school. But, it really was nothing to worry about. Everyone was very nice and welcoming. English was the official language, so I didn't have to worry about mastering Chinese. But, there were also so many other people from many different countries including Korea, New Zealand, and England. I am thankful that I now know people who live in different countries.

2. Airplanes

One of the hardest parts of this adventure was getting used to airplanes. The flight was not short, and airplanes are not my favorite mode of transportation. But, the Korean airport eventually felt like a second home. They always had familiar restaurants and cool stores. I got used to the long flights soon enough, and I now know what it's like to wait forever in baggage claim. So, I'm no stranger to this vehicle anymore. I hope I'll be on one again soon.

3. Trying Different Food & Drinks

The food was nothing like America's. Everything about it was different except the pizza. But, my family and I quickly discovered new places that satisfied my needs. Salvador's, Rocco's, Teresa's, Blue Bird, and so many more restaurants will always have a special place in my heart. The drinks were the same way. They had water, but it usually came hot. I had to request ice. The milk smelled pretty bad, but it was better than nothing. My younger sister and I discovered flavored water and mushroom meatballs soon enough.

4. No Social Media/TV/Cellphones

Facebook and YouTube were blocked for a long time, so I didn't really have access to those most of the time. Our TV didn't have anything my sisters and I were interested in watching, so I was away from that too. People were hardly on their cellphones while out in public, and there wasn't much my sisters and I used our's for. It was pretty nice. Travelling really gave me the opportunity to just relax and enjoy life.

5. Beautiful Scenery

This picture above was taken in New Zealand. It is such a beautiful place. Every country my family and I went to had something about it that made it gorgeous. I always had my camera with me no matter where we went. One of my favorite things about going to a different place is that there are so many cool places to see and things to do. The one thing that I appreciate the most about going to other countries is that I get to learn about their cultures. It's truly remarkable.