Ahh the familiar feel of the Land of the Free, Home of the Brave. I first stepped foot onto American carpeting at the Atlanta airport. Initial thoughts: So much English spoken and so much diversity! The majority of Spaniards aim to blend in- physically most are of similar skin/hair color and of skinny stature. Everyone sports similarly tame/inconspicuous fashion trends (i.e. scarves, neutral earth tones, NO workout attire of any kind, yoga pants & nikes included). The diversity here in the U.S, however, is notable. There are people of all shapes, sizes, shades, not necessarily conforming to a general style.

Also, I immediately ordered a burrito (of American proportions) and a Corona (now that I was freshly legal at home).

Drawbacks: I immediately noticed how impatient and whiny everyone around me was. Everyone was in a rush. Maybe it was because I was in an airport, but hey, airports are sort of the cross section of the country. Entitlement and instant gratification are not a European norm; my patience and cooperation were definitely tested many times abroad where arguing or being demanding simply will not get one anywhere.

From Atlanta, I flew into Los Angeles and was greeted by my Mom and Grandma. We celebrated her new promotion in the Army- a full “bird” aka a Colonel- with an awesome military ball and change of command ceremony. A proud daughter, indeed. We drove down to San Diego and leisurely made our way back up the Californian coast and a week and half later, arrived in the beautiful beautiful state of Oregon. TREES… that is all.

I had missed the air, the plants, and the abundance of restaurants & cafes. It’s good to be home and I am still accomplishing my list of places to return to since my return. However, now that I’ve caught the travel bug…I’m already planning my next adventures! Thinking of doing a month-long trip somewhere this December… Destination TBD 🙂