Life since Carmen and Fabian returned has been much more tranquil. As many of you know my sister and brother in law had to leave abruptly after the death of Fabians Dad, leaving me in charge of their 10 boys. It was a pretty crazy time and I wanted to kiss the ground they walked on when they returned. When I saw them coming down the drive way of the mission I was so ecstatic that I couldn't wait until they arrived, so I ran meeting them half way. I was so thrilled to have them back, not only because they'd relieve me of the boys but because I honestly really missed them. The last couple weeks since their return have just been another adjustment, trying to find out where I fit here and how I can be of use.

Last Thursday was thanksgiving which ended up being a wonderful day. There are currently 5 of us Americans here and we made up for in excitement whatever was lacking from the rest of the base. We began the morning listening to Amy Grants Tennessee Christmas and cooking. Carmen and I reminisced as we listened to the music we had grown up with, it was so wonderful to be with family again for the holidays. I was in charge of doing the decorations so Carm and I spent the rest of the day coloring thanksgiving pictures and creating little tissue paper turkeys. Before we knew it the day was over and it was time for the party to begin. Fear rose in us as guests kept filing into the comedor, many of which we didn't even invite. "Would we have enough food?" was on all of our minds. But everything went smoothly and we even had extras. I don't know if anyone really enjoyed the meal as much as we Americans did however. American food is very different for Oaxacans and they don't usually like it, many were wondering where the tortillas and salsa were. But in the end everything went wonderfully. We had a splendid time of fellowship with each other and filled up on turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, probably the last American food I'll be eating besides McDonalds for the next few months!

I hope you all know that I very much appreciate your prayers and words of encouragement. They seriously mean so much to me. If you could continue praying for me, prayers are always needed. This weekend I may have the opportunity to go to the mountains to help serve with a team. Please pray for our protection and that we'd be able to be an encouragement to the people there as the area we are going to is very dark spiritually. Also please continue to keep my decisions about Africa in your prayers. I have to make decisions very soon whether or not to stay here longer or return to Africa to help Nelly with the orphanage. Pray that I'd be able to see the Lords hand and will in it all. I thank you all for everything! God bless. -Sama