Grateful

We are back in Melbourne again, relaxing in front of the fire on a winter evening.  Three of our children have been asleep since 4pm, so the house is quiet.  It is always a bit of a shock to the system to abruptly change seasons, but no doubt winter will soon feel normal. I am about to crash myself, but wanted to take just a few minutes to express my gratitude to all those who have touched our hearts and lives during the past four weeks.  

I am grateful . . .

For food delivered ahead of time to refrigerators in three of the locations we have called home while we were away.

For brothers who have delighted my children by (1) taking them to surf in the waves, (2) driving a boat so they could go tubing, and (3) making a special trip to see fireworks on the 4th of July.

For parents who have looked after our children, sorted out rental vehicles for us, fed us, and hauled us, our beach stuff, our luggage, and all of our kids over hundreds of miles.

For numerous home-cooked meals in all the locations we have been on this trip.

For friends who have made time and even changed their schedules to be able to see us, and especially for one who drove nearly fifteen hours to stay with us in Pittsburgh.

For good health for all six of us the entire time we were away.

For my three older kids who have pitched in during difficult moments by packing suitcases, cleaning up houses in which we have stayed, loading vehicles, and entertaining the self-proclaimed main character in our family.

For fun feedback from my  blog readers.

For ten straight on-time flights.  The eleventh was another story.  We sat for over three hours on the tarmac last night because of a computer glitch before finally taking off at 4am EST.  I am grateful that James slept during this time, and that he managed to survive the nine remaining hours of the flight once he did wake up with very few complaints.  

For friends who fed and kept Ross company during the past two weeks.

For the opportunity to experience NYC with the perfect traveling companion and tour guide extraordinaire.

For no lost luggage, in spite of the fact that we travelled back with eleven suitcases and nine carry-ons.

For a most happy reunion with Ross this morning.

 

Comments

[Aunt Marion]

We are glad that you had a great vacation and are happy for the time you spent with us!
This blog really keeps us in touch and we love sharing your experiences!

[Amy Smith]

I had been praying for your safe return home. I suspect you will need at least two weeks to recover from all your travels, but I for one, am so glad you came HOME! :)