This blog comes a little late as my time spent in The States was jam-packed, even with scheduled napping and relaxation. And surely enough as I returned to Paraguay, I hit the ground running.
But I most certainly want to share my experiences from home as there were many highlights in the 20 days I was there.
Mom, Dad and Alan picked me up at the airport in Greensboro around 9:45pm. I could see my Dad from the end of the terminal, but no one else. Until he motioned to my mom and Alan appeared from elsewhere as well. There were lots of whoops and hollers and happy tears to see everyone. Shortly after discussion turned to luggage and dinner! We went to Natty Greene’s in downtown G’boro for dinner. Upon arriving at home, I showered and tried on the bridesmaid dress…perfect fit!
Here are some highlights in pictures.
oh my brother got married
i played with maggie
i ate thai food
i visited with robbie and kunal (and took my pink blanket)
i met tim for drinks at armadillo grill
we ordered the santiago :)
jdk came down off mt kilimanjaro to go out with us
plus blux and andrea made it!
plus meagan, carolyn, mike, taylor, katie, julia and nate!
and then there were back-to-back bridal showers for megan and collins!
Oh and I did lots of good eating. Once I knew I fit in the bridesmaid dress, I threw caution to the wind! Here are some highlights.
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I owe my family and friends a huge thank you for being so good to me while I was home. I read in my bed. I slept late and went to bed early. I watched TV as I pleased. We went to the movies and did lots of shopping! Family dinners and dinners with family friends. It was a true joy and a reminder that I am loved and adored, even though I’m far away. But especially when I’m home. It was also a reminder that I love my home country.
Now I’ve been back in Paraguay a month. The time has flown by. Arriving here reminded me that there are people and places that I love here.
I couldn’t help but compare it to the first time I arrived in Paraguay. Bright eyed and bushy tailed! All full of optimism and butterflies. I didn’t feel that way this time. Because in many ways, Paraguay has become my world for now. It’s not just a trip or an adventure. It’s work and life. And I’ve got my routine, and my people and my expectations here. Even headaches and frustrations.
But on the return…my bus driver recognized me! My community members welcomed me back! I understood people, and could talk to them. My host family invited me to stay at their house for a few days! They showered me with love and attention, asking questions, looking at photos, admiring the little gifts I brought them. Did I miss North Carolina? OH YEAH. But did I feel at home here, too? Yes.
Thank you to everyone that made my visit memorable. I love you all! Now come visit me.
