Leaving on a jet plane...

I am a mere 36 hours away from going home for Christmas, and I really could not be more excited. In fact, I'm pretty sure it's almost all I think about all day. I am excited for everything about going home, including (but not limited to) laughing, eating, playing, sharing, sleeping, shopping, speaking English to store clerks!, going to movies, reading magazines, and relaxing. I have perma-grin just thinking about it all. I have been spending my week preparing to go by collecting goodies to take home (chocolate bars and speculoos spread are among the top of that list!), buying paint for my walls upon my return here, and cleaning. In my mind, the only thing better than a good vacation is coming home to a house that sparkles.

The boys seem equally excited as they are counting down the days until we go. In their excitement, they even packed their own suitcases last night (which, of course, will need some re-packing). Hopefully that excitement will keep them happy and sane during our 12 hour flight to the west coast. Charlotte has seemed to catch on to the excited spirit of it all and has learned a new trick for the occasion:

Now there's a girl who knows how to make grandparents proud.

Things being what they are this year, I never did get around to Christmas cards...not to say that I actually ever planned on doing them this year...but still, don't think you were forgotten when no European Christmas card ends up in your mailbox and please know that we have loved and appreciated your cards immensely. Ryan and I both feel thankful and grateful for the opportunities, blessings, and challenges that have come our way this year and we look forward to another year filled with growth in all aspects of our lives. If I don't post again before the new year, I hope you all enjoy the rest of your holiday season and that you are able to share it with those you love. Merry Christmas!!