Coming Home

Yasmin was so excited she could hardly sleep last night. We had to be up around 4:00 am so that we could make it to the airport the required two hours before our flight. We had a six hour lay-over in London, which made the day extra long.

My sister, Lisa, met us at the airport. It was so great to see her in person again! We went to her place for a tea and a chat. The kids were happy to play with Jeremy and Grace. They almost didn't want to leave, but then they realized we were going home.

Many of our neighbours are on vacation, but the ones we've had the most contact with during the year, Kim, Kendra, and Brian were there and the kids were so excited to see Kendra. Despite the six hour time change they were going full tilt until I called them in for their regular bedtime!

It really is wonderful to be home again. The house was left spotless and smelling fresh, everything in order. We did a little unpacking, but most of that will wait until tomorrow when we've had a bit of rest and can think straight again!

CM

Zaanse Schans

We arrived at my cousin Nadia’s house just before lunch. They had just returned from a three week vacation, but miraculously they had all sorts of special Dutch goodies, just for us! She had little pancakes, waffle cookies, and for lunch we had my favourite, Kroket!

They have a six month old baby, Marissa, and a five year old daughter, Chiara. It was nice to hold such a small baby again, although I’m glad we are finished the other work that babies can be!

Although the day had started with rain, the afternoon was clear and we decided to go to the Zaanse Schans, which is an area with many windmills and some shops and old houses that are almost a living museum.

Of course, outside the wooden shoe shop there were large wooden shoes. We couldn’t resist a picture. I think I have a similar photo from when I was 15 years old and visiting Holland.

We had a great visit with Nadia and the family. Again the girls are sad to have to say goodbye. But now they are dreaming of coming home.

Just one more day until we see our family and friends back home again.

CM

Bunnies and Birthdays

The girls love Mona and Gina's rabbits. They were all playing with them this morning. The bunnies were brought inside and the kids had great fun petting them as they hopped around. There were a few attempted escapes, but each time the bunnies were recovered!

The kids were having so much fun at home that we decided not to disturb them. Mahnaz wanted to stay at home because it is Gina's birthday today and she wanted to finish organizing the party. So, Nadim and I went sight-seeing, to Delft and Gouda, on our own. How strange to be without the kids. It was fun to stroll the streets and browse the markets going on in the town centres.

We arrived home and the birthday party was already in full swing. They were playing games, making cards, and eating candies. What more could a kid ask for?

This evening after the party we went to a Baha'i meeting. There were only a few people there, but it was friendly and quite nice.

CM

Just 2 more days of living out of a suitcase!