Friday, June 05, 2009

The LONG Road Home

The drive back to San Miguel always feels daunting before I cross the border. I always worry whether Mexican Customs is going to hassle me (they don't) or not. But, it's still in the back of my mind.

Then when I pass the 16 mile checkpoint, I've gotten the green light, and I'm heading south, my heart races and I get a smile on that straight road because I know it won't be long until I see the beginning of the mountains in the distance.

I also look forward to what kind of wildflowers will be blooming as there is always something blooming -even in the desert!

It truly isn't a difficult eight hour drive from the Border to San Miguel. I take books on tape and the next thing I know I'm turning off where the little sign says San Miguel. (There didn't used to be a sign when I first started driving down). In fact, signage has evidently become a big business in Mexico in the last couple of years. Especially the Ruta 2010 signs for the anniversary next year. Geez, there are gillions of them.

So, I usually get home around 5PM, if not sooner, and my heart does always flip as I come over the rise and see San Miguel below. It is truly a welcome and beautiful sight. Happy Trails!

11 comments:

Bob Mrotek said...

And so Miss Babs, are you finally going to tell us the secret or what...?

Steve Cotton said...

So, are you in SMA?

Unknown said...

Come back for the Harvest Moon Regatta about the first of October.

Calypso said...

Like Steve I couldn't figure if you are there or on your way. I hope it is/was a safe trip ;-)

Babs said...

Bob, which one?
Steve, almost.
Oh Charley - how did you know that used to be a favorite thing for me?
And Calypso - not quite there yet....

Michael Dickson said...

Road signs in this bedeviled nation have improved remarkably in the past few years. Thank God.

What did you bring me?

john said...

Welcome back, Babs. I always get a strong feeling of "being home" whenever I return to San Miguel. Funny, isn't it, for a gringo kid?

1st Mate said...

It's an 8-hour drive from the border? Do you drive at night? Stay somewhere on the way? Cross the border at the crack of dawn?

Babs said...

Felipe, darn I forgot your present. And, what would you have wanted?
Ahh John so you're back from Australia?
And Bliss, I spend the night in Laredo - cross through Nuevo Laredo around 7:30AM and it is an 8 to 9 hour drive. I only stop for gas, not to eat. NEVER drive at night.

Anonymous said...

No one enjoys boarder crossings..

So your yearning for the sea has been quenched, and your heart leads you back to the familiar and sweet San Miguel?

Glad you are almost home.

May you enjoy your sanctuary and allow the memories of recent travels to keep you smiling.

Mic said...

Welcome Home :-)