I never would have though that a place out in the coutryside of Rockville, Virginia would feel like home....but it did. I returned to the International Learning Center, where I received my training, for a short conference. I met with others like me who have returned from overseas. It was amazing to be understood and be told that I'm most likely not going crazy. Ahh....validation! It was also encouraging to hear others' stories about God's faithfulness. I think at the end of the conference, we did not want to go, but rather stay in that "safe" place of understanding and unique friendship. Re-entering America is a strange process and it helps to have people to share with.
I spent my 25th birthday there at the "farm" or "compound" as we sometimes call it. Later that evening, I went out with friends to Shortpump, a town close by. We went out to one of those yogurt places with all the awesome toppings. We randomly decided to check out a nearby arcade to see if they had Skeeball....they did! So, frozen yogurt and skeeball for a 25 year old! Sounds like a mix of old and young.
I had another great experience on my way home. Some great friends, or I should say family members, met me at the Richmond airport. My Day-Day's (babysitter, but really second mom) daughter, granddaughter, and son in law took me out to lunch. They also brought me some pound cake made with Day-Day's recipe. Just the smell made me want to cry. Awesome birthday present.
1 comment:
I know memories of Day Day (Vera) are ever present. All three of you dear children responded right away to the knowledge that it was "her" recipe and seemed to be made by "her". I'm so glad you went to Richmond/Rockville. Thanks to Mark for the donation of miles. We are all here to support you and are interested in hearing all you want to tell about your journey. I have lots and lots of questions. I'm glad you had a bit of birthday fun on your real day.
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