Back in the USA

Judy. After 51,000 total miles, thirty-two flights, twenty-five airports,  four rental cars, two buses, three boats, four trains, thirty-one hotels, fifteen homestays, four Airbnbs,  nineteen countries, four chiropractors, and countless new and old friends and experiences, we are back in Georgia, reveling in being with children, grandchildren, and friends.

I learned more than I ever imagined, most especially that I know so little. While I was shocked and surprised at some things I saw, I realize that a week or a month in a country only gives me a glimpse of its problems. Sometimes a random comment by someone we met suddenly put things in perspective. I might not agree, but I could see their viewpoint.

I learned that most everyone is disgusted with his government to some degree or another. In every country, we were asked about our President and how/why he was elected.

I learned that we desperately need downtime and to release the need to control, and that we need to keep communication with each other open.

I learned that while we all have much in common, each culture has its own fascinating difference—or differences—and if I accept those, it’s more fun.

I learned to eat indigenous foods and more fish & chips, hamburgers, and pizza than you can imagine. I do not care to repeat the last three.

We found that we CAN take what we need in two suitcases and two carry-ons, but we’re sick of our clothes and ready to trade out.   

We look forward to seeing family and friends for the next few weeks, as well as working at our church's Reading Camp. In August we head out again, to Denver, the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii, and to Mexico for an extended visit, returning to Georgia in November for the holidays.

And it’s still fun.