Connecting With My Family and My Roots

I have been in Mexico for the past 6 weeks! My vacation here has been wonderful! I think what I enjoy the most is bringing my two daughters (ages 9 and 8) to the city where I was born and raised, knowing that there will be endless moments to bond, love and share with the people that love them the most, their family!

I left Mexico 11 years ago with my husband and we have lived in various parts of the world. Being an expat has definitely impacted me in how I value my family and my country of origin. Every time I come back I get a tingling sensation of excitement and also an incredible sense of belonging. I am HOME!!!

As soon as our plane lands in Mexico City, there is a part of me that gets very comfortable and relaxed knowing that my whole family is here. I have back up now. I connect with the feelings of companionship and warmth that I will experience for the next 6 weeks with my people.

It is such a pleasure to see how fast my girls adapt to life in Mexico. They have never really lived in Mexico but they have made it their other home. They instantly switch to speaking Spanish, they know what foods they want their grandmothers to make, they know which places they want to visit and they basically know they belong.

One thing I love about Mexican people is how spontaneous, resourceful and ingenious they are when asked to solve a problem. During our vacation we went to Huatulco, a beautiful beach in the state of Oaxaca. While we were there, I got stung by a jellyfish. As soon as I felt the burning sensation, I swam to shore like a triathlon swimmer. The lifeguard approached me and sprayed white vinegar all over the burn. I had no idea that vinegar could cure the pain and itch. My other option, I found out later, was that someone pee on my burn. I am glad I got the first option.

I am leaving Mexico in 2 days, and even though it will be hard to say goodbye to everyone and to go from city life to suburban life, I am very happy with what I take along with me. First, a mark or semi tattoo of my jellyfish burn to remind me of the fun we had, and second the knowledge that no matter how far I go, I am always connected to my family and friends in Mexico.