Summer Adventures

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While my counterpart was here in Arizona, there were many aspects of the state that I was excited to share with him.

Before his arrival, there was a list of a few things that I wanted to share with him. Ranging from just spending time with my family and friends to things like going to northern Arizona. Including the Grand Canyon, Lake Pleasant, and Bearizona.

My counterpart had already traveled to Arizona prior to the program and had seen most of the tourist stops, so I tried to also focus on my life and what I would do with my friends and in my free time. I was able to show him the sports I enjoy doing and introduce him to a lot of my friends. Hector and I enjoyed every moment of the hosting calendar as well as all of the things we did on the weekends and on free days during the week. We both made a ton of new friends and we grew really close and created a friendship that I hope will last a life time.

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My time here in Mexico is coming to an end with only 1 full day remaining. I have made countless memories that I will cherish for a life time. Going to Kino and San Carlos we’re a lot of fun but also sitting at coffee shops and just talking and bonding all make the list for most memorable. It’s difficult to pick just one memory. It’s fair to say that over the span of 3 weeks, I never had a bad day and never felt home sick.

The people I have met along this remarkable journey will hold a special place in my heart for years to come. I love each and every one of them and I can’t wait to spend another three weeks with them back in Phoenix.

Going abroad has taught me a lot, but the main thing I learned along the way was the location and city you are in means very little to your experience. It’s the people you meet along the way, the bonding and friendships that are produced that make this experience so extraordinary and truly one of a kind!

Pictured is me and my host family at my host brothers 8th grade graduation ceremony. 👨‍🎓

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Growing up in a city not far from Mexico shows me that many people have horrible impressions of Mexico and Mexicans. They are small minded and quick to jump to conclusions.

If I could tell anyone of them about Hermosillo it would be that they definitely need to visit. It’s one thing to explain to them how great it is and it’s another to experience it for yourself. It’s a great city that has so much to offer. The people are extremely kind and so very respectful. They love their city and they want you to appreciate it as well.

There is so much I could tell someone about how amazing this city is but I would go on forever. So the first few things I would start with are people, food and the atmosphere.

The people are so kind. Starting with my host family and extending to the lady I met at a coffee shop this morning. They don’t care that my spanish is sub-par. They immediately want to start a conversation with you and try to get to know you in any way possible. Hospitality and generosity are definitely not lack luster here in Hermosillo.

Now, going back to before my journey here, everyone I met that had been to Hermosillo never failed to mention the food. I thought this was kinda weird considering you can get Mexican food in America, I understand Mexican food is more authentic when “bottled at the source” but it definitely seemed strange that everyone had something to say about it. I get it now, it’s very difficult to put into words but the food here is nothing like I would’ve imaged. The flavor they manage to pack into a single steak is absolutely remarkable. Even eating foods i never thought i would try before and absolutely loving them is a good way to say these people know how to cook. I can guarantee you will never go hungry here in Hermosillo.

Also if it wasn’t clear before, I definitely recommend visiting if you ever get the chance.

Today we spent all morning at an orphanage here in Hermosillo. This particular orphanage takes in children who’s parents can no longer take care of them. The children are all at this place for many different reasons. Some of the children aren’t up for adoption because they are waiting for their parents to get clearled from rehab or various other situations. But all the others await a forever home.

The children we interacted with were all around the age of 3-5. I’ve never done something like this before and it was definitely a tear jerker.

I don’t speak good spanish and I couldn’t communicate very well with the kids but they didn’t care. As soon as we walked into the room where they were playing they ran up and gave all of us great, big hugs. They were all so greatful for the things we brought them to play with and seeing them all light up brought me such joy. Definitely a moment that makes me stop and really appreciate what I have and realize how lucky I am that I have those things.

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Whenever I travel, I tend to notice changes in culture and certain customs from mine own.

So far I have noticed that Hermosillo and it’s people are not much different from the US. For one, when you meet someone new or are introduced to someone, you don't just wave or hug but you embrace with a kiss on the cheek. This also would apply for when you would say hello or goodbye to a friend that you already know, you would do the same.

Another thing I have noticed that is different from my own home is the way they eat dinner together. My host mom cooks all of the meals and serves them to us in a specific order. Her husband, their guest (me) and then her two kids. She makes dinner for everyone and makes sure they have everything they need. Then when we are finished she makes herself a plate and eats.

Also I can’t forget the abundance of authentic Mexican food, the mexican candy factories or the shops that sell fresh tortillas. All things that are not readily available in the US.

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Living with a host family has taught me a lot about the culture in Hermosillo and how it isn't much different than my own family and culture. When I wake up my host parents are usually already at work and my host brother (Fernando) is usually at school. Then my counterpart and I usually make breakfast, watch tv, and get ready for the day. 

For other meals throughout the day, my host mom cooks lunch and dinner for the entire family. This is actually something that is different from my own family. My mom hates cooking, therefore, my dad usually will cook dinner or we will all go out to eat. Also, my parents usually aren't home from work to cook us lunch so I will have to cook for myself. The times for breakfast lunch and dinner are much different here than what I'm used to. Here in Hermosillo, breakfast is eaten whenever you wake up, lunch is typically around 2-3 and dinner is usually around 8-9. This has taken a few days for me to get used to, considering I don't typically ever eat that late.

Another thing I have noticed is that I don't think my counterpart or his little brother have chores. Their mom cooks cleans and does the laundry. Which are all things I have to do in my own house.

As for language, Hector and his little brother both speak really good English. His parents have good English as well but not as good as Hector or his brother, but it's enough to be able to have a decent conversation with them. They are all teaching me a lot of Spanish words and phrases and in return, I am teaching them more English. His dad likes to talk to me a lot about his job. He works for the government here and has a lot to do with the relationship between Arizona and Sonora. He is constantly in Arizona for work and has shown me a lot of pictures of him with US government officials.

I've come to really like my host family. They accepted me immediately and they treat me like one of their own. They are accommodating, generous and loving.

Hector pictured rocking Rhiannon’s shades