Los Días Finales en Querétaro

Just a few weeks ago, we were meeting our families for the first time and it's already time to say goodbye! As I say on almost every post, but this has been the greatest experience. The amount of knowledge I've gained and the fun I've had was well worth the expense of making the trip. 

Our last two days have been pretty busy as always. On Monday, we had traditional medicine day during which we were able to learn about the use of traditional medicine in Mexico as well as make some of our very own remedies! Nancy, who has been with us during our whole time in Querétaro, is an expert and explained all of the various forms of alternative remedies that Mexican people use. After her presentation, Nancy brought us into UAQ's special kitchen that is used to prepare the remedies. With our "recetas" recipes in hand, we prepared cough syrup using honey, eucalyptus, a flower called bugambelia, cinnamon, garlic, and purple onion. Afterward, we each chose to prepare one more thing from a list of tincture for nerves, tincture for weight loss, and magic cream. Nicole and I decided to make tincture for nerves because as nursing students we are bound to need a few doses for our exams in the coming semesters. 

After cleaning up our giant mess in the kitchen, a few of us from the group headed into town to shop. I made a few purchases, and then Sarah and I came back to do a little homework and get ready for our dinner with the group/families. The group dinner was a blast! It has been so fun to see our host sisters, Pili and Carol, interact with the other girls in our group. They love all of the attention (especially little Carol). The food was yummy, but the company was even better. It was so fun to see everyone interacting with their families. 

Today has been good so far. Our morning began with a meeting about the Cultural Heritage class Katie, Hannah, and I have been taking during our time in Querétaro. We met Jonathan at Express Arte, officially our favorite spot to do homework in el centro, and talked about the things we have learned and our opinions about some of the readings. Any conversation over a cafe americano is a good one in my book. After the meeting, we gave Jonathan a "recorrido" (tour) of the city, mostly just some important aspects we have learned about during the time here. I shopped around afterwards for a couple of last minute things and am preparing to pack up my stuff in a little bit. Leaving feels bittersweet; I am definitely ready to see my family and boyfriend, but will miss our Mexican family. Pili keeps saying that she is going to come home to Michigan with us, but will come home in the winter because it's too cold. What a smart girl ;) 

My next post will likely be from the good 'ole US of A! Hasta luego!