"Home"

As many of you know, I returned to the states recently for family issues. It was so good to go back and be there with everyone. I got to see family, eat delicious food, hang out with friends, and just be there. I did struggle everyday I was there but it SO worth it. I would not have missed one second, and I only wish I could have stayed longer. I won't bore you with the sadness of why I was there - I just wanted to express my appreciation for everything that makes up my hole in the wall heaven: Holdenville, America.

I feel closer to my family and friends back in good old Oklahoma than I ever have. I love the fact that I will always be comfortable staring at a pasture with a beer in my hand...well also with Momma's good food in my belly. :)

However, I did have to come back to Italy. This is my "home" for quite a few more months. When I returned, I discovered everyone hiding in my room with the lights out! They greeted me with a surprise welcome back get together!! They had printed all of these wonderful pictures and taped them up everywhere, they hung toilet paper streamer from my ceiling, and had even cleaned my room! As I was traveling back to Italy I was so sad to leave my home and return to this "home" but I'm glad I did.

I started something here, and as much as I might not appreciate it sometimes I am truly blessed. These people took me under their wings and went above and beyond for me in my time of need. It was the best surprise ever.

PS, I forgot to write about the snow! A few days before I left for the states we all woke up and looked outside. It had snowed in the mountains over night - they had white caps!! The clouds were low (below the snow line) and almost transparent. It was the most beautiful scene. I didn't take a pic, but I will ask around to see if anyone else did.