I don't like you, March 3rd.

I mean, I knew the today would come. This trip couldn't last forever. I just did a terrible job preparing myself I guess.

When you are in one place for so long, you get used to it. Not only used to being there physically, but in my mind I was used to being here as well. I was living in Costa Rica, I didn't have to worry about driving or getting to work on time or SNOW or other commitments. But that time is over. This glorious month of February has come to an end. And what a month it was.

I am experiencing mixed feelings about the whole thing. While I know I've been here a month, I feel like I got here yesterday. While I am here, sitting IN the airport, I still cant believe I'm about to get on a plane. I've experienced all of these emotions every time I come here. While this airport (SJO) is very nice, I absolutely hate it. I hate downstairs because there is the possibility that a young gringa could get lost or have to wait by herself for over half an hour. I hate the upstairs because that's where you go when you leave. And I don't want to leave. I never want to leave.

Daniel and I left the hotel in Alajuela at 2:00 this afternoon and grabbed lunch. Then we came to the airport. He was stalling I think because he wanted to pick up the incoming group before taking me up to the dreaded departure area. We waited for the group from Duke for a little while. I introduced myself to all of them but I'm not really sure why haha. Once they were all loaded on the bus we left the airport and hung a U-turn. Through watery eyes, I made the joke to the group that they were turning back and heading home so soon. Daniel helped me get my stuff off the bus and gave me a tight hug. In English, he said "I love you", kissed me on top of my head and sent me on my way. Then he honked the horn until he was out of sight.

It was then as I was walking through the doors of the airport that every goodbye I said in the past couple of days hit me. Some people I met this trip are people that I know for a fact that I will never see again. The people in La Bonita de Changuena were so so good to me. I will miss their smiling faces and their love and trust in Jesus Christ. I wish I could bring them all with me and have them live next door.

I don't have much time before boarding, but I need to say a few thank yous:
-to Wil and Yolanda for everything. For having me, feeding me, teaching me, loving me and yes, even firing me. I loved every second with you and am so thankful for what you do.
-to Sean Devolites for actually getting my ticket. Without it, I obviously wouldn't have been able to go. And for your support and chats throughout. I can't wait for you to come this summer and am jealous of you already.
-to HUMC and the youth there for supporting me and praying for me. I miss you guys and will see you soon!!
-to my ACTUAL blood family, especially my mother. Thanks for all the cards. The guys enjoyed the Mardi Gras beads.

And thanks for reading!!
Dios les bendiga.