Home, Sweet San Antonio

In many ways, San Antonio will always be my home. I was reminded that much of my personality was cultivated there the moment I was driving down/up I-10. Though, sadly, the San Antonio landscaped has been raped by commercialism/strip malls, it still possesses places filled with memories. As Sarah and I drove into the city, I breathed in the hot, humid San Antonio air with nostalgia. After 7,000 miles around the United States, I knew I had to come home. When I first left San Antonio for Boston almost 10 years ago, I felt I was traveling between two existences- one of my past and one of my present/future. Over the years, I have reconciled that though I may leave Texas, Texas will never leave me. The thought of a bean and cheese taco from Las Palapas, the unique incense aroma of my mom's house, and the friendly faces that awaited propelled me forward during the long drive through the desert.

I love that I still have friends that I can call on a moment's notice and share great conversation and food; a tradition that hasn't changed in over 15 years of friendship. I look upon my friends as true kindred spirits that have also shaped who I have become and who I will always be. I sat with Shannon at Souper Salad laughing and recalling the first time we met almost 16 years ago in the Jackson bathroom across from the cafeteria. I drank wine with Jess and Moni (legally!) talking about sex, a topic once imagined, now realized. I ate sushi (delicious!) with Dusty amazed what a great mom she is (I always knew she would be a great mom), and how she is still able to be herself without compromise. Jeni and Todd (well mostly Todd) made me a great eggplant parm feast amongst their remodelled kitchen, and I thought to myself how right they are for one another. My friendships are very important to me, and I am blessed that I have wonderful people in San Antonio and beyond that keep me in check.

Seeing my mom and eating good ol' country food is also a tradition that I must do when I am home. Though, my mom and I do not see things the same way always (she hates all truck drivers- well maybe we aren't so different...) I know she will always support me in my decisions even if she grinds her teeth first.

I was sad that I had to leave my mom and San Antonio behind, but hopefully I'll be home again soon. Now off to Boston with Papa Gonzalez in tow and a few stop in between.