It is Monday morning here. Ryan is back at school. The Fords left on Friday morning. Russell headed back to Texas last nite. I have so many things to write about....but how do I do it? I could be very sad....which I am...or ignore my feelings and just fill everyone in...so I think I will tell you all this way.
Things I learned during our first family Christmas in the UAE:
10. It's beautiful weather here in the winter.
9. Holiday busyness is not limited to the US...I am pooped.
8. Mail...snail mail...feels like a hug, especially during the holidays.
7. I love having a phone that connects me to my family and friends in the US.
6. Being far away from everyone is really hard, especially when they are hurting and you can't be there with them.
5. Friends who come all the way from Bulgaria to spend time with us are worth their weight in gold.
4. Laughing with old friends is priceless, and loving their kids like your own, just can't be beat.
3. Youth pastors never grow up....one day I will share the story of Darren giving Mike a peanut butter face slap...just picture it.
2. Saying goodbye to your oldest boy heading halfway around the world is really really hard...and waking up to a new day with him gone, is even harder.
And the last thing I learned this Christmas is...with God all things are possible...even making a go of it in a strange land....Sandyland.
So there you have it. It was a great Christmas and New Years. Very different but very special. Mike and I loved watching the Ford kids and our kids hang out together. We enjoyed showing our new life to the Fords and having Russell be a part of it. We are blessed.
Happy New Year, Everyone.
