and then it hit me...

I have come to realize that people around the world are essentially the same. Granted we live different lives, have different traditions and may dress differently. So sometimes it's hard for me to really grasp that I am outside of my 'home' country. The past two summers, I have spent time in the beautiful countries of Ukraine and Hungary. I remember feeling comfortable the first time I went, but last summer I remember a distinct moment where everything felt normal. I no longer noticed the little differences. This place looked and felt as normal and comfortable as when I would drive down my street in Iowa. It was a moment that I will always remember. I can't wait to go back. Booking my ticket is the first thing on my "to-do" list.

I don't know what happened this time, but I spent the first few weeks here so out of my comfort zone. Everything was hard. I reacted in ways unlike myself and I didn't feel "at home" here. Then student teaching picked up and things got busy. I slowly started forgetting that I felt uncomfortable because I was so wrapped up in the moment. There was stuff to do and I would come home exhausted every night and go to bed. There was no time to think. This week, I have only been teaching half time and I have allowed myself the time to think. Think about life. Think about Nicaragua. Think about students. Think about myself. And then it hit me. I have little more then a week here. A week from Monday I will be back in the States. The thought filled me with sorrow and a little bit of regret (not to mention, I stopped breathing for a few seconds when I realized it). I'm not ready to go back! Somewhere in the hustle and bustle of life stuff became "normal"- I adjusted and people turned from teachers/principals/co-workers into friends. I can't tell you the specific moment, but it happened and that's what matters. This place has become like another home to me, and I'm not ready to leave it. I have learned so much, shed so many tears and spent so many frustrating nights here- but I have also laughed, giggled and felt so much joy that it is hard to imagine. Nicaragua, I WILL miss you.

And now, I am sitting in the back of my classroom trying not to cry...so I should stop writing:)