South Of The Border And More: 2/20/15 Adiós Amigos

El Fin!

As the yachts sailed out of the marina, we loaded our bikes and headed toward the US. The journey wasn't over for any of us, but this chapter was coming to a close.

To get into the States legally requires so much official bullshit that it took hours to cross. If it weren't for our wonderful Spanish speaking guides, we might still be languishing in Tecate, drinking Mexican beer. Because we had registered our bikes when we crossed over, we had to park, go to immigration to get our passports stamped, then another location to clear our bikes. Finally we were in an endless line to cross.

Chilling on the back of the bike while we inched ahead, I was amazed by the border security - a fence 8 feet high made of corrugated tin. I think even I could climb that if push came to shove. Our bikes were suddenly granted a new lane, but still we sat and waited while our very suspicious group, possibly committing international crime, were questioned, sniffed by dogs and searched. And then we were across. It amazes me that we do more business with Mexico than any other nation, but to travel across the border can be like traveling to Iran.

Finally we were on home ground. And so it was time to say farewell. Jules and I just wanted to soar away, because we have always had trouble with good-byes. We open our hearts to make new friends and then in an instant, we head out on different roads. Awkward hugs and promises of reunion can never replace the thrill of combined experience. Yet we stayed for the final handshake and hug, savoring the last sips of this very full cup of living.

Then we all headed in the dispersed directions that our lives prescribed. Jules and I headed to San Diego. A visit with Megan, a very important member of our chosen family, helped us decompress before our trip East.

Mexico ...The imprint of the mosaic that is this country has been tattooed to our souls.