For the first time in ten months, I am leaving Mexico tomorrow...but just for a week. It's time for a visit with family in Washington State - I'm going by myself, leaving Paul here to take care of the house and dogs.

I have lots of lists of things to do and buy when I'm there, but the main thing is to reconnect, especially with the grandkids.

Our son Adam (who lives in Mexico City) has warned me that in his experience it is really strange to go back to a place that you know so well but where you don't have a home. I know that will be odd for me, too.

I'll be renting a car and I am expecting a bit of a shock in that department, too. Wide highways and more restrained driving habits and all! Here in Mexico driving is more of a sport - kind of like skiing - you swoop and slide here and there and it would be impossible to not pay attention every second.

I'll miss all the cups of fresh fruit and vegetable snacks. Chip bags slit on the side and seasoned with salsa and lime. Gomitas! But I look forward to some Boca bratwurst and Gardenburgers and other vegie options I don't get here.

The sidewalks will seem so wide and flat. I wonder what I'll notice about being back among Americans? I'll have to write about my impressions when I get back.

Since 80 degrees now seems cool to me, I wonder how I'll fare in the cooler temperatures?

I plan on helping my son and his family get their web cam set up so we can have video calls using Windows Messenger. It will be so nice to be able to finally see them in between visits!

I'm not sure if I'll be posting during my time away - I may just be having too much fun! Hasta luego!