At home in California I’m a hermit who rarely leaves the house except to walk the dog, run errands, and chauffeur kids. But in Guatemala, I’m out constantly. Here’s our group pausing for an afternoon refreshment at Café Condesa with Ben Fossen, founder of Adoptees with Guatemalan Roots. Ben and I have known each other virtually for years and it was fun to finally meet in person.

Olivia and I also enjoyed a lovely breakfast with Mari Mayen and one of her daughters, Marlin. We met Mari and her family in 2003, when Olivia and I lived together in Antigua while her adoption was finalized. Mari took care of Olivia in the afternoons during the hours I studied Spanish–I’m still not fluent!–and a more loving nanny you will never find. Our families will remain connected forever.

Finally, we’ve spent time with my dear friend Wende, whom I met a decade ago in the swimming pool at Hotel Antigua. As Wende swam her daily laps, Mateo and I played the “dive for a coin” game. Wende and I struck up a conversation and have been close pals ever since.

People ask why I return to Antigua year after year. This is why. Antigua feels like home.