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Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! I went to the U.S. In December for classes to complete my Bachelors degree in Maternal Child Health. The classes were in Cincinnati, Ohio. I had a great time at the courses and learned a great deal :) I was able to make a brief stop in Michigan, my home state, to see family after my courses were finished.

I loved seeing my sweet niece, Heidi, and my nephews, Matt and Josh. They are truly joys to me and I hope each will come visit us abroad sometime in the future.

I got to stay with My brother, Rick and my SWEET sister in law, Kristin. They are always gracious, loving and joyful!!! I love being in their home. It feels like second home to me :)

I also was able to get to Frankenmuth, MI with my family. We had the traditional German chicken dinner with all the trimmings, YUM! I spent time chatting with my sister, Heather, whom I miss terribly. We laughed and joked like always as if no time had gone by :)

I shopped with my mom for a large consumable shipment while I was home in Michigan. here are sone if the photos of part if the items we shipped. Thanks to Mom for all her help, I could not have done it without her:)

Our first Christmas in Mali was great! 85 and sunny was weather for the day. The kids are glad that Santa does indeed make it to Africa!

We made gingerbread houses, frosted cut-out cookies and hosted a dinner party for Kelly's co-workers. We are often glad to be out of the major commercialism of an American Christmas. It is just less pressure and helps you focus on the reason for the season.

Now we look forward to our first visitor. My dad arrives in Mali in a few weeks and we all can't wait!!! Our children adore all their grandparents and "Grandpa B" is no exception :) they are already planning what to do with him and what to show him. All I can say is bring sunscreen and your swimsuit, Dad!

I will post more as we have events cone up. For now, HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!!!!!