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I had a few more reflections to post, but I figured since I am back home, I would skip the last two reflections.

It was so hard saying bye to everyone and everything in Guatemala. The kids were amazing and it was so hard saying bye to those kids knowing that you will probably never see them again. I absolutely loved the school and of all the teachers there was only one that was truly dedicated to what she was doing. She had so many different engaging activities for the kids. I want to be like her some day. Go to a school and give kids the spark that they need to know they can do well. Many of the kids that went to that school were the first in their family to attend school and they were trying so hard. I loved every minute I was in that school and I would absolutely love to go back some time.

As for the families, I cannot begin to describe how amazing they all were. We had such a blast the last night at a little dance party at Rocio's house. It was fun just to get together with everyone and have one last good time. I was amazed at how much fun we had especially when some of us, mostly myself, was not able to communicate everything I wanted to. Dorita, my host mom, was such a blast and I grew really close to her. We made up a dance together and performed it numerous times in front of people. She was truly an amazing women and I was so lucky to have her as my host mom. The whole Gramajo family was caring and helpful throughout the whole process: helping me with my Spanish, taking care of Melanie when she didn't feel good, driving us everywhere, and making sure that we had a good time in their country. They are a beautiful family and I look forward to reuniting with them again in the future.

Being back in the United States, I have grown to miss some things in Guatemala. Here are some of the things that I will miss the most:

Being able to stop traffic with your hand
People randomly putting on their hazard lights
Speaking/Listening to Spanish
Belting out Spanish songs in the car with Dorita
Getting great big hugs from the kids at school
Beans...kind of surprising, but they were good! :)
Having at least 4 meals a day
The scenery
The music
Waking up early...yes I said it. I felt like I was so much more productive with my day
Kissing people on the cheek everytime you said hello or goodbye
And most importantly...THE PEOPLE!!

It was a great experience. This has definitely given me the spark to explore more of the world. I am so ready to see everything else that is out there!