I wanted to post about the fact that I was coming back to Indiana for a week, but I couldn’t.  Know why?  Because I was coming for my dad’s birthday and HE DIDN’T KNOW!  I wasn’t too sure we’d all be able to keep my visit a secret from him, but it actually worked.

I had an amazing time with my family.  I can’t seem to get over how particularly wonderful they all are.  It was the first time we’d been together without spouses in a long time.  I missed Mark and Becca, both, but I will treasure that snippet of Swartzendruber time.  Of course, I have to brag a bit on my niece and nephew – they are two of the most beautiful, fun people I’ve ever known.  Rotten stinkers, sometimes, but they’ve totally won me over anyway.

Avery & Poppy

Amdon, the charmer

they sure do love their Poppy

I got to skip down to Indy to see all my horribly sick friends.  They even shared some of the love.  The time was too short, for sure.  But it did fill my tank up a bit.  (Thanks, girls…and Jason.)

I wish I could have seen a hundred more people and had quality time with each of them.  Alas, it was not to be.  I did have a good trip back home.  Mark’s face at the Dublin airport was sure a welcome sight.  Even with Skype, it’s not too much fun being on a different continent from the one I love!  And I just missed the horrible weather and came home to balmy temperatures and beauty…

the reservoir of spelga dam

rolling clouds - the view from main street

We’ve got a friend, Beka, visiting right now.  She flies home on Boxing Day (Dec 26) and Mark’s parents fly here a few hours later.  We can’t wait to see them!  Even though we’ve lived here 3+ months already, I’m sure they’ll have some secret wonders to show us in the place we live.  (They do have their own history in this place.)  If I don’t manage to get back here before then, Merry Christmas to you.  Thanks for stopping by again!