Aldama Street

I love this picture! I pass this house every day since it is about 4 houses down from mine. I have come to love Aldama Street. The past week, we have all become a little sad and are realizing that before we know it, it will be time to pack up and move out. That is still 7 weeks away but it seems way to close.

Every seven years Mike can take a sabbatical leave from his current job for academic development. This period can be 3 months, 6 months or even as long as a year. Mike chose a 3 month leave for two reasons. His job as a 4-H agent couldn't do without him that long and because of our four teenage children. Unsure if they could handle an extended time away from home, a 3 month stay was the best option. All of our kids have a load of friends and are heavily involved in numerous activities.

After 8 weeks, all four of our teenagers have adjusted well. Surrounded by friends, they are happy and thriving, most of the time. If we could go back and redo it, a 6 month to one year stay would be chosen. We have fallen in love with the people and we'd like to stay long enough to perfect learning the language. Many of our adult amigos are teasing us, saying we should remain in La Huacana forever. Students are signifying to us by rubbing their fists into their eyes that they will cry when it is time for us to depart.

I am sure I couldn't make this my permanent home but I could visit for an extended stay annually. Molly, however, has become Mexican. She is asking me if she dyes her hair and tans her skin if she'd pass. Of all my kids, she is the one I predict will reture here in the future on her own accord. Molly adores Mexico, their customs and culture, especially the warm-hearted people she has met.