Some thoughts and photos from California

How do I sum up my trip back home? In one word, perfect. Perfect may not have been the word I would have chosen my first two weeks back when I was sick and miserable. But in the end, I am grateful because mono forced me to stop and take things slowly, as opposed to my normal modus operatus where I cram as many things possible into the allotted time. Initially, my two week vacation was packed with big events like weddings, musicals, tips to LA, hiking with this person, going out to dinner with that person, etc. Instead, I spent most of my time at home with uniform days consisting of waking up late, going to lunch with dad, hanging out with my brother, taking the dog for a walk and having dinner with the family. A little boring at times, but absolutely amazing over all. If it wasn't for getting sick, I wouldn't have had such quality time with my family. Something I feel one can never have enough of.

Since I was so sick when I arrived in the US, I didn't really experience the huge reverse culture shock I was expecting. But the things that did stick out to me were:

Drinking out of the drinking fountain and not getting sick
The traffic--slow, respectful drivers and quite roads (nobody honks)
So many nice cars on the streets
The warm sweet smell of the the california summer air
Air conditioning
Big beautiful trees
My dog--it was so nice to have a relationship with an animal that didn't consist of me throwing rocks at it
California clothing--shorts, skirts, and tank tops. I left my modest clothing in Peru
Attractive boys all everywhere I look
Realizing that all white people DO look alike

I was surprised at how different I felt in california, like my old self again I suppose I could say. It's hard to explain, but I actually feel like two different people: Cali Ali and Peru Ali. And I must admit I like Cali Ali better. I feel I can be more of myself in california, less inhibited. From the style of clothing I wear to the way I behave in public and the rules that dictate my life as a PCV. Being around my parents always makes me shed layers I normally put up with even the closest of friends so everything is exposed and I can't hide any of my emotions. This trip I really got down to my core which was really refreshing. I experienced so many emtions through my six week stay that it was like a detox on many levels.

There was an aspect of my trip that was a bit subdued, but for the most part, it was fun and relaxing. As I got healthier, I was able to do more and more stuff. My recovery and extra time allowed me to do all the things and more I had planned to do on my trip. But I got to enjoy them so much more because I wasn't rushing.

Here are a few photos of things I did on my trip to California


I went to Amber and Dave's wedding and it was Beautiful!















Did some dressing up and got back to my roots











Met up with old college friends in LA for brunch










Spent a weekend l reliving the glory days with my partner in crime, Steph

















Went to a wedding with my family just outside of woodland

















the wedding was the perfect reunion for all of my best friends from high school












Spent a lot of time with woodland/Davis buddies "Krevan" and their friends