Gratitude

I just made a short trip to So Cal for a week of tending to personal business, improving travel supplies, delicious home-cooked meals, and enjoyable visits with some family and friends. Not only has it been rewarding to be welcomed into new friendships and communities abroad, but I'm grateful for the hospitality and being welcomed back by my parents, Steph, Katie, Aunt Joyce & Uncle Jack, Aunt Rosa, Hild, (the chance to see Mary Jane, Adam, & family), and a nice, long chat with Heather.

I am grateful:

• that my husband was supportive during this week, as he stayed in warm Cancun, and is now enduring the cold in TX as I make my way there. Side note* Funny thing happened on my way to Dallas...I thought I booked my flight to DFW airport and was surprised when I arrived at Dallas Love Field (DAL). It turns out Love Field is only 16 miles from DFW, and it's pretty easy to take a shuttle back to the correct area. As George says, "live and learn."

• for opportunities to challenge myself in little ways like - traveling alone once in awhile, FINALLY understanding the futility and waste of energy and time that worrying really is - and learning to let it go and move through it faster. (Have faith...oh ye of little faith!)

• for those friends who remain in touch via email, facebook, and skype regularly. You all enrich our lives and we hope to see you in person this year.

Dallas is cold but no snow or rain today, so we are heading to Louisiana.