Lessons learned in Tulum (Cozumel)...

Lesson One: Mid-sized boats are NOT the happy medium.
The first couple days, I was the only one of our group that did not get sick on the ship. That didn't help me in Cozumel. From Cozumel island we took a smaller boat to mainland. It didn't work out as nicely as I thought it would. I nearly died. I have no problems with small boats (like unto a raft). Large boats cause me no grief. Apparently mid-sized boats are not my friends.
Lesson Two: There is merit to hypno-birthing.
No. I did not give birth on the boat. But I did use some of the techniques that my sister-in-law is learning for her next laborious experience. I'm all about deep breathing and happy places. Even though I was is in 85 degree weather, I found my solace in snow shoeing to Stewart Falls.
Lesson Three: I LOVE KNOWING ANOTHER LANGUAGE!
While on my mission, I got a letter from a former roommate who learned Estonian on her mission. She said "Isn't speaking another language awesome? It's liking speaking in a secret code that EVERYONE understands." It was so fun to listen to and understand people that didn't think the tall blond gringa would have a clue.
Lesson Four: The Book of Mormon is true.
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the Nephites and Lamanites existed. Having visited the city of Tulum and circling the temple there, I have a vivid/visual understanding of King Benjamin and his tower. There were tents facing the prophet and the people were educated. The Lord loves ALL of His children (even those that lived on the American continent) and made sure that they had all knowledge that they needed to be happy.
Lesson Five: There are no sister missionaries in Mexico.
I had the blessed opportunity to deflate a misnomer. Our tour guide had read the Book of Mormon and had met with the missionaries, but was absolutely shocked to find out that I had learned Spanish as a Mormon missionary in Chile. He was absolutely certain that only men did that kind of thing. Female missionaries must be a new thing, right? Sorry Raul. My mom was a missionary. (Thanks Mom!) We've been sharing the gospel for a long time.