So Many Stories...

When I came back to Tallahassee, I had so many stories to share. And the more I had to repeat the stories, the more I missed the adventures. And certain things would make me laugh and remind me of my roommates that nobody else could even begin to understand. Bananas and no water immediately come to mind. I've come back to a quiet house and my classes have started so all I do is study and sleep. Sometimes while I'm studying or eating I have a brief moment where I'm transported back to El Salvador and all I can think about is Pops or papusas. Yes, I'll admit...I miss going to papusarias with my PeaceJam family. The whole gang and Don Jaime too. Remembering El Salvador isn't difficult; from the art to the pictures to the paint on my jeans, I have reminders everywhere. And I'm glad. I love having a mini scrapbook with me wherever I go.
I miss the Hogar. I don't miss the smell or the heat or the queasy feeling of not being able to help enough. But I miss the smiles and the excitement and the look a resident gives you when you walk by. A look that asks "Will you brighten up my day?" When people ask what it's like to help people with disabilities, I'm never sure how to answer. I always start with "It's not as hard as you think." Taking a hand, sharing a laugh, and singing a song is really quite easy. I can't wait to see the finished garden and I'm already jealous that people are going to El Salvador and I can't.
When I try to list all the cool things I've done in El Salvador and Guatemala, the things I say still sound amazing no matter how many times I repeat it. I'm not going to list them because you know what they are. That list is a bit of history we share with each other and I am grateful I shared it with you all.
My days in Central America are not over. I don't know if I'll go to El Salvador again (I hope I do) but the other countries have a high standard to meet. As you all know, I only like the best and after El Salvador, I don't know if I'll be impressed with those other countries. :D
I still listen to Hello and Mi Nina Bonita. Oh and I still have nutrigrain bars and chips!
My trip to El Salvador is one of my favorite international trips and it when it comes to new experiences it tops the list. And I would take this trip again in a heartbeat.
Thanks again for the opportunity and for sharing it with me. Can't wait to get together again!