And so it is.

After spending the majority of my past year here in Mexico, I'm headed home without clear plans of returning. A friend recently asked me if I'm still American or if so much time here has made me Mexican. Can I answer, "los dos"? As thrilled as I am to go home to see my family and friends,I'm sad to be leaving.

I'm going to miss the Tamale Man.

I'm going to miss the kiss-on-the-cheek greetings.

I'm going to miss the bwooop sound that taxi horns make.

I'm going to miss the people, especially my host moms. Gracias Mercedes and Olivia!

I'm going to miss the language, ND Spanish classes promise to be dreary.

I'm going to miss street vendors, buses, the carefree attitude, afternoons in the zocalo, real tortillas, being called "guera" in the market.

I'm going to miss Mexico.

Yesterday as I "viaje-ed seguro" with ADO from Oaxaca to Puebla, I thought about how much growing up I've done in the past year. Sure, there were the days where I wished that I had just stayed home and worked, comfortable in my own house, drinking tap water and speaking English. The full impact of this summer still won't sink in for a few months but I'm glad I did it. Coming full circle and visiting Mama Olivia's family as I head north has been a lovely end to my trip; I am so blessed to have met such open and caring people during my time here in Mexico.

Now it's off to the shower, bus depot, and airport for the final leg of my journey home. Nos vemos Mexico!