First days in California

First location of my stay... Dream Street.
Aunt's House

My Aunt the dental hygienist (those are my teeth on that computer)

It's no surprise that I arrived and everyone knows I am here. What was once a secret only known by two people (my aunt above and my step Dad,) is now known throughout the family thanks to my crazy Auntie who told my Mom last night. We made it to the day before I was due to surprise my Mom and my Aunt told her yesterday! I was gutted; I really wanted to see the look on my Mom's face when she saw me back in the country.

This week I have been coping with jet lag and enjoying the hot weather in Redding California. It's been about 90F everyday with not a cloud to be seen in the sky. My lovey Aunt (above) who I have been staying with cleaned my teeth yesterday... the NHS isn't really known for their dental care; so my clean took an hour an a half to get to American standards! I have loved staying with my Aunt - the eldest in my Mom's family. She is an incredibly loving and compassionate lady who has been very supportive about my trip and plans for the future. We are planning a girls road trip to San Fransisco in October!

Today my step Dad will pick me up with my brother (who is the only person who doesn't know I am here!) We will drive one hour North to Mt. Shasta for the rehearsal of my step sister's wedding, there I will see my Mom for the first time in a year. I am nervous as my relationship with my Mom is volatile; however I am looking forward to big Mexican family celebration to bring us all together.