How can sum up the most amazing experience of my entire life?

I just re-read my very first blog entry from over 6 months ago and I just cannot believe that I am back on my big red couch in my downtown Minneapolis condo writing once again. It is so hard to believe that only 6 short months ago, I did not know Spanish, did not know the kids I would teach or the people I would meet, did not know how to live out of a suitcase for months and most importantly, did not know nearly as much about myself.

I have learned more in the last 6 months than through all the hours in a classroom or office cubicle combined. I have been more happy, more sad, more excited, more scared, more curious, more frustrated, more patient and more content than I can ever remember.

When I actually stop to think that the experience that I have wanted to do for a lifetime is now behind me, I really cannot believe it. In so many ways it seems like a blurry dream with photo flashes of some moments that are still clear in my mind.

Some of my most vivid memories are not what you might expect. It's not summiting Machu Picchu or swimming with sea turtles in the Galapagos. Some of the most vivid memories I have are the simple ones.

I can still remember my first Friday in Guatemala when a little girl tied a friendship bracelet onto my wrist. I didn't have a camera to capture the moment but for some reason, at that very moment when I looked at her hands on my hands, I knew that this would be an unforgettable ride.

But I could never, ever have imagined just how incredible it really would be.

Every single person I have met along the way has made the last six months extraordinary. I cannot thank you all individually here but to every volunteer, host family, student, teacher and friend...I thank you with my whole heart.

Throughout the last year, many of you and others have said to me that they have often thought about doing something like this. If you are serious about it I say DO IT. I can promise you it will never be a decision you will regret.

I completely understand that not everyone is in a position to take 6 months from their lives and do this journey. But I met so many people who are doing this work in other ways, for shorter times, with their families, with jobs waiting...the list goes on. If any of you, at any time want to talk to me about doing something like this...please do!!

When I started this blog, I thought it would simply be a place to capture my thoughts and experiences in a public forum. What I never expected was that it would become a huge part of the experience itself.

I know that sounds crazy but there were honestly times when I chose to do something a little crazier, a little funnier, with a little more spirit because of this electronic journal. Even when things got rough, I could usually smile and say, "at least it will make a good blog story!"

About half way through, I installed something on here so I could track how many "fans" I have. I have about 40 people or so that check this every day. Other than my mom, dad, sister and 3 friends, I have no idea who you are! I would LOVE it if as many people as possible could leave a quick comment or drop me an email just so I know who has been along with me on this ride.

You need to know that by you my reading my blog, I was inspired to keep writing in it and because of that, you have all given me the best souvenir that I could have ever, ever asked for. I will treasure these entries for a lifetime.

Also, I have enjoyed blogging so much that I think I'm going to keep it up! I know my stories will take a SERIOUS turn for the more mundane and boring but I hope I can still keep you guys interested! I'll probably blog a little less often but hopefully pretty regularly.

I hope the blog will continue to inspire me to do crazier, more outrageous, more passionate things and that you will all be there to join me on the ride (a bit of a preview?? I have JURY DUTY starting in about 3 weeks!! Yep...I was summoned while away...)

So how does it feel to be home? In a word...weird. In two words? Weird and wonderful.

In reading my very first journal entry, I realized how focussed I was on "figuring out what I wanted to do." I think I can honestly say I have made no miraculous discoveries. No big decisions. No life changing moments.

But I have learned something even more important about "figuring it out"...I'm not sure I ever will or ever actually want to.

Of course I will make career decisions and of course, I hope that I am happy, passionate, challenged and maybe even making some small difference in the world. But for me, the answer of what I want to be when I grow up has changed.

I want to be a person who cares about others. Who follows her passions and dreams. Who never stops being curious. Who always knows that everyone can teach you so much and the biggest lessons usually come from the smallest people. Who never stops learning. Who loves passionately.

I know this journey has brought me closer to that place.

Thank you all for coming with me on the ride.

Here's to the next chapter...

xoxo,
Debra