Merry Christmas everyone!!

It’s been a quiet week, the children are gone so things are less exciting at school. We have to stay until January 6th, which is why I couldn’t go home for the holidays.

Even though I wasn’t home, it was still a lovely Christmas. I spent the holiday with Benja and Flo’s family again. We went to a beautiful Christmas mass at sunset and then had a delicious Christmas Eve dinner around 10pm, and then opened gifts until about 2am! I don't think I'll ever get used to the Chilean Christmas schedule!

The next day, I went home to León where he opened several gifts. I’m pretty sure today was one of the best days of his little life. He got so many toys, he didn’t know what to do with himself.

If you remember from last year, Chileans stay up late on Christmas Eve and the main celebration takes place on the 24th. The Cox family is so sweet to think of me, they gave me several gifts, all of which I love! It was my second time celebrating with them, and I’m so grateful for the invite. The holidays are one of the harder times being away from home. But I’m so grateful to be surrounded by so many wonderful people whether in Chile, Spain or home.

^^ The majority of this call was spent taking this picture.

^^ My Christmas gift (and birthday) is my trip to India!!

Fun Fact: When I was little, I was afraid of Santa Claus. So much so that my mom had to leave a note for Santa to please not come upstairs. She also put a baby-gate outside my bedroom door. She had to do the same for the Easter bunny.

Laughable Moments:

• I asked my co-worker if she’s taken her three-year-old to visit Santa yet. “We’ve visited him 4 times so far…” I laughed out loud at that!

• I went to the park with León to read. Next thing I knew, a 6-year-old girl had plopped herself right in front of me. We talked for several minutes. She wasn’t convinced on León’s name and wanted to rename him (her name). We have plans to meet next weekend in the same spot. She was a hoot!

• 10 minutes later, a 1-year-old baby walked over to me, took my cellphone and started walking away. At that point I gave up on reading.

• Flo was telling me my hair looks more “cooper” than usual. It took a second to realize she meant “copper”.

^^Benja and Flo's Dad is famous!

Thanks to all for making me feel extra loved today! Wishing everyone the happiest of holidays!!