It all started with the idea of spring break. I had plans to stay in Springfield for break, but then my break up happened and then everything changed. I started communicating with my mom about coming down here and with tickets being so expensive and last minute I knew it was not going to happen. Then a miracle happened and I was able to get the funds to get a ticket.

I wanted to surprise my mom, sister and stepdad and so, I kept me coming a secret. Only those that were close to me knew about my plans and of course our family friends that live with us because they picked me up from the airport. All of this was happening with the crisis of this virus.

I had some people tell me I was not allowed to leave and I had to stay in Springfield, Well, I did not listen to those people. I had been struggling so hard emotionally that it was starting to affect me in my daily life and in school. The break up took a toll on me, I started to go crazy in the town, and I just needed to get out of Springfield. I needed to see my mom. My mom has really been there for me through this tough time and I just needed to see her in person, phone calls and video calls can only go so far.

So, I made the decision four days before break started to go see my family. It was a very long travel, but it was so worth seeing my mom's face when she saw me, along with my sister's face. My sister said she almost cried, she was so surprised. I stayed up talking with them and of course ate my mom's food because nobody can resist a mothers cooking. I then showered and went to bed.

The next day I went to my grandmother's house and she was surprised too, she just got back from the Philippines and did not know when I would be coming down. Honestly, nobody here knew I was coming down. I loved seeing everyone's faces when they saw me. There is so much love here and it is an environment I just needed to be in. My baby cousins ran right into my arms as if I never left them. My sister has not left my side since I have gotten here. Her and I have done so much together and I am so glad I made the decision to come here and spend my time with her.

Overall, this trip has been so good for me. I have been able to be with my family that I rarely get to see and have those one on one talks with my mom that I really needed. I have laughed and smiled so much and I have not been able to truly do that for a while now. Even though this virus has made businesses shut down, has made the city go on lock down, and has taken the fun out of a spring break vacation, at least I am here with the people I love and care about and because of everything that is happening, I get to extend my trip to the end of the month!