I love holidays. I enjoy time with my family, great food, and simply having fun. Christmas (and all the time leading up to it) is no exception. I'm one of those people who starts listening to Christmas music on November 1st. When I taught high school, my classroom looked like "Christmas threw up." (as lovingly described by a student) Everything about this holiday makes me so happy. I honestly believe this is because I was always very aware of the true meaning of the holiday, the first gift that was given that we continue to celebrate. How could it not be a joyful day?
Two weeks ago I was in Kenya, sharing this beautiful holiday with family, enjoying great food, and simply having fun. I have experienced some incredibly special Christmas days, but this was beyond anything I could have imagined. I found the thought "this is Christmas" constantly running through my head. The western decorations that I've become used to were sparse, it was the hottest I've ever been celebrating Christmas, and there wasn't a turkey or mashed potatoes in sight (my personal favorites from Christmas dinner). However, the true meaning of the holiday was never more apparent. Watching the kids tear into their Christmas gifts is a sight I will forever cherish. They were as excited for their neighbor as they were for themselves. It was absolutely beautiful.
On our last night there, we played a giant group game of the board game SORRY! The room was full of cheering and laughing. It truly reminded me of playing games with my family. The week had been full of activities and the team was tired, but I found myself energized by their laughter and joy. It was an amazing way to spend our final night in Kenya.
Each time I leave Kenya, I am certain no trip can top what I have just experienced. I am pleased to say that I have been wrong every single time. Though, I am certain this one will be difficult to beat, but I look forward to trying! For everyone who has kept me in their prayers or helped to support me, thank you! I can say with certainty that the kids had a great celebration! And I,... well, I am filled with joy, love, and thankfulness. This is Christmas and I am so blessed!
Merry Christmas!
Two weeks ago I was in Kenya, sharing this beautiful holiday with family, enjoying great food, and simply having fun. I have experienced some incredibly special Christmas days, but this was beyond anything I could have imagined. I found the thought "this is Christmas" constantly running through my head. The western decorations that I've become used to were sparse, it was the hottest I've ever been celebrating Christmas, and there wasn't a turkey or mashed potatoes in sight (my personal favorites from Christmas dinner). However, the true meaning of the holiday was never more apparent. Watching the kids tear into their Christmas gifts is a sight I will forever cherish. They were as excited for their neighbor as they were for themselves. It was absolutely beautiful.
On our last night there, we played a giant group game of the board game SORRY! The room was full of cheering and laughing. It truly reminded me of playing games with my family. The week had been full of activities and the team was tired, but I found myself energized by their laughter and joy. It was an amazing way to spend our final night in Kenya.
Each time I leave Kenya, I am certain no trip can top what I have just experienced. I am pleased to say that I have been wrong every single time. Though, I am certain this one will be difficult to beat, but I look forward to trying! For everyone who has kept me in their prayers or helped to support me, thank you! I can say with certainty that the kids had a great celebration! And I,... well, I am filled with joy, love, and thankfulness. This is Christmas and I am so blessed!
Merry Christmas!