I returned to Missouri on December 18th to my friends and family and a great sense of home that rushed through me the minute I felt the cold air. Getting a break from the daily life and struggles of Peace Corps is not something most volunteers get to experience, so I was very grateful for the opportunity for the much needed break from island living.
I spent most of my time reconnecting with friends, eating American food, drinking cold Coors Light ON TAP, enjoying my home with my family and dogs, celebrating Christmas and bringing in the New Year. I was quite worried that upon my return most of my friends would have moved on without me and I just wouldn't feel at home, but that wasn't the case at all, as my friends welcomed me back with open arms and hearts. It was a great feeling.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day traditions continued on as every year does, which made me jump with joy inside. I brought home traditional Grenadian rum, rum punch and sorrel. It was a big hit, in more ways than one. :) New Years Eve was spent at a local bar with friends I had missed dearly, and the memories continued on throughout the night. I needed that night big time, and it was all I had expected. Great friends always come through in the end.
Now it is back to Grenada, but not without some internal struggles of my own. I'm a country girl at heart, from a small community that keeps its people close, so leaving and coming has always been a great struggle for me. My heart is in Missouri, and always will be. These last couple days have been dedicated to refocusing my energy towards the new year in Grenada, getting myself mentally prepared for another year away from home, and brewing up new ideas for my work ventures. My friends and family have been of great support to me through this transition back to reality and I couldn't continue this journey without them.
I leave you with some pictures of my trip home and again....HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
My Goddaughter Allison
My puppy dog Jack
Sis, Momma and I
Sis, Whit, Ash and Charlie
Playing the dollar game at Christmas Eve festivities
One of the greatest feelings in the world.
Sis and Tipper
Four man wolf pack reunion.
Some things never change.
New Years Eve with good people.
My high school buddies. Love them!
SIDE NOTE: If any of the people following this blog (yes I know who you are) will be arriving with the new group of volunteers in February, please feel free to contact me through facebook or my email if you have ANY questions regarding Grenada. We are looking SO forward to having you guys on the island of spice!
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