Christmas time!

Dear everybody,

In the spirit of this most wonderful of seasons, I have decided to reflect on the things I am grateful for. Life has not been easy, but it has been exceedingly good, and in some ways I feel that that is what Christian life is like.

Preparations have officially reached "Hectic" status. Thank God for my mother though, who helped me remember all the things I needed to do. I can't tell you how many times I came to her and asked what I needed to be doing next, and she knew off the top of her head. She's like a superhero, she is.

Also I need to be grateful to my father, who lent me the insane sum needed to buy a plane ticket, so that I could get my visa in time. That was very much helpful.

And finally, Thank you so much for your generosity. I can't tell you how much it means to me. I have learned many things already from this trip, but I think the number one thing has been the power of giving with a grateful heart. You all have been my hope and inspiration during the lull of these moments before I leave. Thank you.