who knew?

life in paradise has been treating me very well. i am staying at my "stepdad's" new house on a beach resort, and only stepped into civilization tonight for one of my closest friend's birthday party. sitting by the pool, reading, going to the beach, playing with santiago the killer dachshund. these are all the strenuous activities i have endured during the past couple of days. and i love it. sort of makes me consider moving here.

the other main plus to visiting puerto rico this year is seeing my mom while she's in a relatively good state. while she certainly still has cancer, she is in high spirits despite being weak, loud and funny despite feeling ill. we've spent almost every waking moment together and really, it's been amazing. besides, one of the main reasons i came here was to be with my brother, and that in itself has made the trip worth it.

tonight i saw most of my new york friends as well, and it was just so nice to feel the same connection with them here as we do there. right now, i just feel relaxed, rested, and most of all lucky. which is much more than i can say about how i felt on my way here.