Toto! I don't think we're in Kansas anymore!
I'm reflecting on whether it was more of a culture shock to arrive back in the states or when I returned to Belize via Mexico...not sure...
It was so wonderful to arrive in Florida. It took me 19 hours to get to Cancun from Punta Gorda and only an hour and twenty minutes to fly to Orlando...wow! When I first stepped foot in Orlando, the thought occurred to me to kiss the ground of our wonderful country but thought I might create a 'people traffic jam' as the crowd was busy scurrying along. So I didn't. Everything looked so squeaky clean and shiny.
It was absolute heaven to spend quiet time with Ashley, Bobby, and Aubrey. After Aubrey's graduation and Sue Brown's visit, we had the pleasure of being able to use Kim and Joann's place in North Carolina for several days where we all reconnected...very little TV, no cell phones, no computer... We hiked in the mountain fresh air and made a fire in the fireplace. Just two days earlier, I had left temperatures in the 110 degree range...a nice and welcomed change.
We came back to Jupiter and had a chance to visit with many dear friends. Thank you all for your hospitality and generosity with all the dinner tabs. Really feel like your poor and indigent friend but I guess there's much truth to that!! Rich in friendships, however. I feel so blessed.
Back to the village and life as usual. This felt like coming home again...somewhat odd. It is such a different culture but much to be said about the uncomplicated existence. So poor but very few worries. That very idea has been one of my main challenges. Just sooo used to being busy in the States that this slowed-up pace has been a foreign concept.
Thank you all for a wonderful visit home...my welcome mat is always out if any of you care to venture...I think Carlene and Katrin might do it!!!
God bless us all...tracy
It was great seeing you. It felt like old times! We hope things go well for you until the day you choose to come home. Keep the faith and be safe ... no more sleeping on bus station floors in the wee hours, young lady! We love you and wish you the best. Pete and Betty
ReplyDeleteIt's Week 20 and I'm missing HH, Gruby's, but most of all--YOU!
ReplyDeleteI heard you were in the neighborhood and am so sorry I missed you! Sounds like a wonderful and much needed trip home. Can't wait to see you on your next trip to Jupiter.
ReplyDeleteKerry
Were your animals on your back door again, waiting for you???
ReplyDeleteWere more animals on your back door again,
hoping to live with you?
c
I had such a great time with you and Aubrey at Tabica. It's been crazy for me since that night and I can't wait to get to Vegas for a little R&R.
ReplyDeleteYes, I plan on visiting, but I guess I'm going to have to wait until the end of the year. Are you coming home for Christmas or might that be a good time to keep you company?
Glad to see you made it back safely and seem to be embracing the idea of being back to your mission.
Stay strong and see you soon,
Katrin
Tracy, have read a number of your posts and sounds like you've adapted quite well. Experiences that are priceless. Glad you had a wonderful trip back up to Fl. and I'm sure it went by in a heartbeat. Phyllis and I are alive and well over here in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This July 4th will be two years. Phyllis is headed back to Boise in a few days and is particularly excited as Sue and Charlie are flying out as well. Do take care and keep up the good work. Sherman
ReplyDeleteSo nice to hear from you Sherman. I think of you and Phyllis quite often and wonder if you ever miss 'home'? Must be very interesting and exciting to live in Thailand but so far away from old friends and family... Always fun to visit with Sue and Charlie ANYWHERE on this planet. Have a ball!! tracy
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