I've been back in Tennessee for about a week now, and I've really enjoyed being able to spend this time with my family. In the past seven years, I've only been home during the holidays or brief vacations. I've missed out on quite a bit. It's nice to hang out with my nieces and nephews and catch up on their lives. They've grown so much! They're each developing such strong personalities. And of course it's great to be able to spend time with my parents and my sister without the pressure of holidays or schedules.

It's funny, I never thought I'd miss all of this so much. I never thought I'd want to return to a small Southern town. I'd forgotten how friendly the people are, and how comfortable the pace of life is. I've missed being surrounded by mountains. Seven years ago, I couldn't wait to leave. I latched on to the first excuse to get out of here. I barely looked back. Now that I've returned, I have a whole new appreciation for this area, the people and the lifestyle. I almost regret that I'll be leaving again in a month.

But this time, I don't think I'll stay away quite as long.

Labels: costa rica