Adios, Mexico

We're finally heading out from Mexico.  After two months and six days, we are saying our good-byes and headed to Guatemala for a few days (at the airport waiting for our flight as I write this).

Our two months in Mexico have been awesome.  They've had highs and lows, but overall, it's been a positive experience.  My favorite thing we've done was the cenote day in Merida; my favorite meal was probably, sadly, the Italian restaurant Oliva (also in Merida); I'm most proud that I climbed to the top of El Chiflon in San Cristobal.  I got extremely homesick toward the end of San Cristobal and Oaxaca, but thankfully Mexico City helped that out - it's a city that made me feel like I was home, complete with bike shares and subways and international restaurants and walkability.  With the exception of our two nights in Vallodolid (near Chichen Itza), I've liked every place we've been better than the last. We started in Cancun, then Tulum, Bacalar, Vallodolid, Merida, San Cristobal, Oaxaca, and ended in Mexico City.  Two months and we didn't even get to 2/3 (3/4?) of the country.

The end of San Cristobal and Oaxaca were pretty bad times for me.  I was so excited for Oaxaca, and while I liked it, I was just really down.  Most people who know me know I'm, (a) prone to anxiety and depression; (b) extremely close to my family; and (c) a homebody.  It's rough.  I've learned I can live without a lot of stuff, but at the same time, I like my home.  I like being able to veg out on my couch, cook whatever I want, have my own pillows, etc.  Having down days are okay.  When we first got to Mexico City, my mom told me that my Zia Iolanda, my dad's aunt who helped raise him, passed away.  While this wasn't a huge surprise, as she was 92 and had been in a nursing home, it was really difficult for me because I wasn't there with my family.  I wasn't there.  And yet, I feel like that snapped me out of my funk a little.  It's like - life is short (although in the case of many of my family members, not TOO short :)), I need to appreciate the opportunity I have right now.  And while I don't know how long we'll travel for (I still miss home!), I keep telling myself that even if we return tomorrow, I got to see things that most people don't and that I will look back on this trip fondly.  There are days when I don't think we've done enough, that we should be doing more, but then I know myself and I'm not the type who likes to rush, rush, rush.  And that's okay.

Anyways, just figured I'd write a post with an update and some of my perspective.  I'm pretty nervous for Guatemala, and I'm sad to say good-bye to Mexico and its incredible food, showers, and (for the most part) reliable internet.

Adios, Mexico!  Hola, Guatemala!

4 comments:

  1. I think it's great how you guys are immersing yourselves in the culture of all the places you are visiting, and rather than trying to check off a list are really trying to enjoy and fully experience all of the different regions. You are going beyond the typical 'tourist.' Can't wait to see pics of Guatemala!!

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    1. Thanks, Sister. Guatemala is posted, as is everything through Montana. Getting there, and replying to comments as well :).

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  2. *hug* Love and miss you!! Excited to read on!

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    1. Love you too - and so glad we got to see you guys!

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