11 days...

As of today, I only have 11 days left in the country of Costa Rica. It's so bittersweet. I had no clue that I would feel like this. I spent today painting graffiti on a wall today with some of my closest friends here. Don't worry, we had permission. It was in the backyard of one of my friend's boyfriend. I never knew that "graffiting" could be so fun! This is just one example of the incredible memories I've made down here. It's so weird to me to think that I won't be able to see these people everyday anymore. I've formed such amazing bonds over the past 5 months. It's going to be really difficult to say good-bye.

On the other hand, I had a Costa Rican cheeseburger today for lunch, and I can't wait to have a hamburger grilled on my parents' grill on which I can put whatever I want. Cheese, hamburger, mayonnaise, and pickles...it's going to be great! :-) My biggest concern at this point is that I'm going to have difficulties integrating back into American culture. I've been reading a lot about a syndrome called Reverse Culture Shock, and I'm pretty sure I'm going to have it. I've been missing the United States as I looked at it pre-Costa Rica, but what if it looks completely different when I get back? I'm sure I'll be fine after a couple of weeks or so, but it's still going to be really weird for me.

I am looking forward to seeing all of my friends and family again, though. 5 months is way too long to go without seeing the people you love! I hope all is going well for you guys, and I'll see you in 11 days!! Yeah!!

Pura vida,
Amelia