Going Home

I knew that "home" would be different. Because "home" is not solely my little apartment in New Boston any more. 

Home is in several places now. 

Home is my family. 

Home is friends.

Home is New England. 

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Home is also Costa Rica. 

My time in New England was better than I thought it could be.

Different, yes.

But so good.

Because it was so needed.

Some relationships had changed. Some for the better. Some not. And some of the ones that had changed, surprised me.

"Tell me everything that has happened in your time down there!" My brain would shut down. I'd find myself replying, "You may ask me any questions, and I'll answer them. But I cannot tell you 'everything.'"

Most connections were more intense. Because they had to be. Shove nine months of life experiences into a two-hour box of "let's catch up," and that happens. With some, we kept it safely surfacey. With some, I cried and said, "These are the things I've seen in the last nine months... and I can't un-see them. They are now part of what composes me. Some days I love this new me. And some days, it's too heavy."

I spent hours with my nieces and nephews. The little people who make my heart beat it's correct beat. And there was acceptance on every level.

Countless "I love you"s.   Countless snuggles.     Countless "Aunt Lindsay! Guess what?!"

They welcomed me back into their lives seamlessly. As if I hadn't been gone for nine months. As if we'd just been "us" yesterday. As if life had not drastically changed. 

Quality time with my brothers. Laughing with my sisters. Conversations with Mom and Dad.

The family reunion! Getting to see all of my aunts and uncles... and all of my cousins. And the next generation coming up strong. 

Boating.      Campfires.      S'mores.      Laughter.      Pictures. 

And the last few days spent on the lake. With Mom and Dad. And Uncle Rick and Aunt Kath.

Peace. 

Perfection.

And a whole lot of ice cream.

Heart ready to come back home to Costa Rica. 

Vision restored.

Passion recharged.

Ready to finish this time in victory.