Adios Peru!

   I'm finally back home in the USA! I got home on the 27th of June. Exactly one week ago. I'm so happy to be back with my family, but it was hard to say goodbye to my host families in Peru. 

My huge suicases... 

Last picture with Mama Yolanda and Papa Osmar 

Saying goodbye at the airport. 

Last picture with the cousins 

Martine came to say goodbye. 

Bye Mama Chana!

   After a long year in Lima, Peru I thought it would be easy to say goodbye to my host families and I'd be ready to just be with my real family. I was wrong again. I've grown close to my host siblings and it was weird knowing that I wouldn't see them for a long time. 

   My year made me a more sensitive person and made me realize how important family, blood or acquired, is. I learned how to travel efficiently after quite a few group trips all around Peru. I learned that I am capable of anything I really want to do from the Inca Trail. My life has changed for the better because of the time away. 

    I've seen the magic of Peru and the people of the wonderful country. I've realized the value of home and family and things that are comfortable. 

   Since I've been home, I've gotten back into driving, I've gotten to see much of my family, and I've eaten a ton of great food! My first meal was Steak and Shake! I hope to continue re-doing American things to feel even more at home. I start my senior year in August with a full college prep schedule. I'll be having a pretty great year though. 

   I hope to continue speaking Spanish with a conversation group in my home town sometime soon and to continue speaking about my experience. I know that I'll be giving presentations to Rotary soon and to future exchange students. I hope that in the future Rotary can continue to sponsor kids to learn in foreign countries.

   I think anyone who can have a year like I had will have a great life from it. 

I want to thank Rotary and Rotarians for my year!!

Adios Peru!! Te quiero...

L