Saying Goodbye Isn't Easy, See You Later Is!

Here I am. In a foreign country where the sun permanently shines, the heat is unbearable, the people are friendly and where the air is filled with the scent of burning leaves. It’s our second week in Mexico and thank goodness I had my sister & ‘K’ here to help us settle in our new home. My last two weeks in Toronto were a true test of my capabilities and strength as a person – a little person at that. It was like a full time job with crucial deadlines to be met. With my notebook in one hand and my cell phone in the other, I was determined to get things done in preparation for our departure to a new life. Saying goodbye to our friends and family was not the easiest thing to do, but verbal promises of their frequent visits have turned my sadness into anticipation. It will also be hard not having our parents nearby. I hate knowing they’re not only a few minutes away. Who will I run to for a warm parental hug or an ‘it’s ok’ when I need to hear those comforting words? No matter how far life takes us, I know in my heart our parents will always be there supporting our every move. That’s what makes things even harder. It was also heart wrenching to say goodbye to the ‘G7’ who were frequently by my side offering all their help and support. As a stream of tears rolled down my cheek, ‘Shake’ whispered in my ear “Mar, you are my ‘bestest’ friend, what will I do without you?” Those heartfelt words are what keep me believing everything will be ok.

Our voyage to Mexico was a hellish experience, to say the least. With Rock & Roll (our doggies) in their crates, my sister and I hauled them around exhaustedly, checking them in and out of two different airports and hoping they made it to their final destination in one piece. Geez, was that ever a struggle! Roll was fine, but Rock wasn’t. Even after giving him a mild sedative, he was unusually stressed out - barking at everyone in sight. Imagine a 105 lbs me, pulling a crate three times my size through the crowded walkways of Mexico City Airport. Every Pedro, Jorge, Juan and José stopped to see what lay in this large crate under my sweaty palms. Each time, Rock made it known he was there. With a ferocious growl and the shaking of the ground, it seemed like a wild animal was waiting to break loose. Picture it? Umm, SO NOT funny! Upon our arrival in Hermosillo, the guys were there waiting to offer us their helping hands in ending our journey. I burst into tears. I MADE IT! All the planning, preparation and organization brought me to where I need to be. I am finally here…dogs, husband and all! Our first few days have been exhilarating. Our house is beautiful, the pool is refreshing and the city is filled with warmth and welcome. The tacos have been our favourite night time meal at a local outdoor patio called ‘Jaaz’ (pronounce YAAZ) where Mexicans gather to celebrate the flavour of their most prized dish. A soft tortilla filled with cheese, steak strips, guacamole, a sweltering hot sauce and several other toppings make for the most mouth watering experience. So, all in all, it’s been ok, I suppose. It was difficult when my sister and ‘K’ left us on Wednesday; at least they were here to help make our first week as enjoyable as possible. When we dropped them off at the airport, I hugged them tight. I told my sister I will miss her and in doing so, I cried. But I did not say goodbye…even though my heart ached to see her go, I had to be strong. I looked her in the eyes, held my chin up high and forcefully blurted out the following words - “I’ll see you later!”
Because I know I will.