Alice's trip to South Carolina: Goodbye Avalo :(

I am sitting at Columbia airport waiting for my flight home. I was very sad to leave Avalo and cried a lot! I will miss the place, the horses and all of the people so much. I really hope I can see them again and that I can come back to Avalo. We went out for a meal on Friday night to Michelle's friend's Italian restaurant in Aiken. It was so nice, I had a delicious but enormous pizza and in true American style took the left overs with me in a doggy bag. I had my final ride this morning on Teddy and we did bridleless jumping. It was a great way to end a fantastic trip that I will remember for the rest of my life. Michelle asked me the other day what I've learnt from my time here- the list is long and I'm sure there are many other things that I haven't even realised yet.
First and foremost, I am a much better horseman (horsewoman?). I now understand the way horses think, I am ten times more confident dealing with horses on the ground, especially in a herd situation, and I think that now I could work with any horse a lot more effectively. My riding has improved as well, and I have done many new and exciting things with horses- riding in a halter, riding with no halter or bridle at all, cross country schooling, competing in a show, working with a horse at liberty and feeling that I have a true bond and connection with a horse. Natural Horsemanship has definitely changed the way I will work with horses from now on, and I can't wait to try it with horses at home.
Aside from horses, I feel more independent and a lot more prepared for university in September. Having to cook and clean for myself has been very good for me! I made some great friends from all over the world who I will definitely keep in touch with. I have learnt so many things I never thought I'd know; how to put up an electric fence, drive (and reverse) a truck and trailer, use an electric saw and drill, make cavaletti and even cast a shrimp net. I also like cats a lot more than I did before (with literally 100 of them it's easy to find at least one that you like!)
I have had such a good time here and leaving has only made me realise that more. I guess this will be my last blog post, so thanks for reading and I hope to see everyone at home soon!