Today is my Mom’s birthday. We sent her home with a gift when she was here a few weeks ago, and we Skyped her this morning, but it isn’t the same as being there. I really miss her today, and I wish we could all be together to celebrate.

I am truly enjoying our Austrian adventure. We are seeing wonderful things, going amazing places, having perspective-altering experiences and learning about the world (and ourselves). There are many things I love about living here. Vienna is a wonderful, beautiful place.

But the way I love Austria is nothing compared to the way I miss my family. I miss home today.