We left the gracious and very hospitable home of my sister-in-law and brother-in-law, The Storts, and arrived at our # 1 son's house for a family gathering which included our four sons, their wives and children, my mom and dad and Sidney the dog. It was so nice to have all the boys together under one roof. Rick and Rob live in Sarasota but Tim is in South Carolina and Terence is in Salt Lake City. I was thrilled that they all made arrangements to be together for our arrival. It was a wonderful afternoon with good food, games and more. Our boys surprised us with a very thoughtful gift.
I must admit that this is hard for me. I have always been a person who worked hard never to be dependent or a burden to others. Having to depend on Rick to help us with our mail and financial matters, having to call Tim regularly with "my computer is sick, what do I do???" , needing to stay with others because we are technically homeless when we visit the US, having the Storts take care of our truck while we are gone, storing a ridiculous amount of boxes of stuff we can't part with at Rob's house, and at Rick's house, and much more that I can't think of now, is something I never saw myself doing. But we really need their help to be able to make it in China. It might be a little different under different circumstances. But whatever the case, I will forever be grateful to those who have been supporting our China adventure!
Enjoy the slideshow from our gathering.......
We will be leaving here in the morning and heading to John's brother's house in Riverview. Another gathering with his family. Looking forward to it!! We will be heading to Tampa on Thursday and to catch up with our long time friends that evening. I feel a hug or two coming on! Time is flying by already. I do miss my friends in China. But haven't had much time to think about it. Thanks again for all the love and encouragement from the family and friends. Oh and I love my new mini iPad!!!
Love and hugs...... Cindy