It is funny how I just realized that I spent all of 2012 living abroad. New Years day came and went, and I don’t think I even thought about this fact. But it is true – all of 2012 and then some. But I am slowly making my way back home. 4.5 more months to go. That seems crazy to me. I have no idea what I will really go back to or what is going to happen with my life, but that doesn’t curb my enthusiasm for the possibilities. I have dreams about getting off the airplane and seeing all my friends and family. (I also have dreams about eating bbq pork…) I think I am ready for a change. But I know that I need to live here, really be here for the next 4 months. I have a lot to give to this place and it still has a lot to teach me. So, here’s to the meantime
only snapshots 
There’s a difference in your writing as well. I sense more comfort, more “seniority” (for lack of a better word)