I landed at Tampa International Airport early Friday morning around 5:30 AM. My brother Blake graciously picked me up, which was much appreciated. I never told my parents I was coming home and was ready to surprise them. Blake drove me to my mom's house, and we arrived at 6:30 AM. She was just getting up for work. We knocked at the door and she was in shock—still tired, but it was a nice surprise. It felt cool and refreshing to be back home in Florida after so long.
Afterward, I drove my mom to work and took her car to surprise my dad. Since I sold my car before my trip, I'm at the whims of using my parents' cars for transport. Pinellas County has so many roads and nowhere is walkable. I drove a total of two hours my first day back around town, which is totally not sustainable. I stopped at red lights every two minutes. This reinforced my desire to live in a walkable city with public transport.
I was able to see my dad, and he was also shocked. It was a good time. I was riding on 36 hours of no sleep and was about to crash. Oh—before I saw my dad, I was able to see my good friend Melman for breakfast. We both didn't know how long it had been since we saw each other. I was so tired, but I powered through.
After just an omelette, I realized my belly hurt. I ate omelettes overseas many times, but for some reason, this one got me. I think it's the oils they use to cook in the U.S. This also reinforced the healthy eating habits, choices, and boundaries I must defend while I'm home. Even though it will be difficult, I must.
I'll continue to work hard to keep the habits I created during my travels—to stay energized and work out, to not get too comfortable.
On Saturday, Blake, my mom, and I went on the boat. We saw manatees, dolphins, pelicans. It's cool being in a place with so much wildlife. The boat was nice and relaxing.
Overall, it doesn't feel like a shock. It just feels smooth—and for that, I'm grateful. It's weird being away for 10 months in the craziest of places, and when you return home, it's easy.
I don't want to get too comfortable though.
A couple of weeks ago, I was surfing and swimming with whale sharks, or motorbiking through Vietnam, or hunting with a tribe. Now I'm back in the U.S., ready to prepare for my next adventure. Oh also I am going to continue to post and update this website do not worry!
