Dred Locks and Hermit Crabs

Buenos Dias Bloggerland.

I have much to say; too much. For the sake of brevity, I am using numbers to summarize the recent events of my humble little life.

7 Number of takeoffs, landings, complimentary snacks, in-flight movies, and airplane safety demonstrations endured in the past two weeks. If you have any questions about the proper stowage of train tables, you know who to ask. I am currently considering a future as a flight stewardess….might as well make some money since I live on an airplane anyway.

5 Number of waves pursued, caught and successfully ridden via surfboard.

18 Number of embarrassingly heinous surfing wipeouts. The result? 5 new bruises, 2 very red eyes and 1 nasal cavity filled to the brim with tepid saltwater. Mmm mm.

9 Number of random European hostel friends made. As of this weekend, hostels are my new favorite thing: cheap rooms + free coffee + new places + crazy people with cool accents = yes please!

2 Number of new/pending additions to the good ol’ familia. Pause. Time for an important tangent: my family is amazing!! I just spent two magically rainbow-carpeted days with them. During that time, I met my new sister in law for the first time (she is a peach) and found out my sister is engaged to the most hilarious Guamanian in the world. And so it goes. Time passes. Please turn the page and continue reading as we begin the next chapter of our audio book.

3.5 Number of tearful nostalgic episodes experienced. Having honed the art to perfection over my adolescent years, I am now an expert at these. Here’s what you do:

Step one: block out the cacophony of life that surrounds you with ipod headphones.

Step two: select a playlist of your favorite bittersweet songs. (Anything by Copeland, Coldplay or Imogen Heap works well)

Step three: stare out the window. Any window will do in a pinch, but personally I favor airplanes (Thank you seat numbers 22F and 18D).

Step four: let your thoughts glide luxuriously over the landscape of your life. Try to dwell on your most deliciously sentimental memories.

Step five: if the tears come, feel free to let them flow. It is a cleansing experience. Do not, however, feel bad if the salty tide never comes; everyone’s nostalgic journey is different.

Well, it’s been real friends! More photos are on the way. Until then, adios! Vivan vidas lindas!