Why dedicate the time and effort to painting a map of the world at a high school in the middle of Ecuador?

February 24, 2015 was a difficult day. 

Those who have traveled to live, work or study abroad for an extended period of time understand how complicated the word “home” can become. 

My husband and I served together in the Natural Resources/Habitat program.

In Mongolia, you might live in a ger; in Swaziland, it could be a rondavel. Just as each Volunteer experience is different, so is each house. 

From the traditional (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah) to the fun (Mardi Gras, St. Patrick's Day) and the obscure (Roadkill Cook-off, Burning Man, the Gilroy Garlic Festival), Americans celebrate many different festivals with friends, family and strangers alike.

Today is my last day in South America.