For the first time ever, I was not at home for the holidays, In the UAE, there are many expats (foreigners) and there is evidence of Christmas everywhere. Christmas trees in the mall, Christmas lights and garland for sale in the stores, and gift bags with Santa. There were reminders of the season but it felt very strange to be celebrating Christmas with 75 degrees outside. I had to keep Christmas and joy in my heart. Thanks to Andrea Brown for allowing me to babysit her Christmas tree. It made me smile every time I looked at it.
Over the holidays I rested, caught up with Hulu and Netflix and reflected upon myself. I didn't realize how tired I was and needed to recharge my batteries. Being away from my family was hard. I missed the Christmas Eve service at Vienna First Baptist and seeing all my friends. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were hard for me, but I put on my "big girl panties" and pushed through. Several of my friends stayed for the holidays and we made the most of it by getting together cooking for brunch, lunch, dinner, and checking on each other. I'm thankful for the people in my life. :)
As the year comes to an end, it's a natural time to reflect upon the past. 2013 has been filled with love, laughter, struggle, and success. Sadly, I said goodbye to some good friends who completed their contracts in the UAE and headed home to spend time with their families. Maintained relationships with friends who are still here and made new friends that have given me support and encouragement when the road was hard. Being 7400 miles away from everyone and everything you know can really take a toll. I cannot tell you how important it is to have a support system. Again, I'm so thankful for the people God has put in my life and the kind words he sends my way.
Changing grades has been a challenge for me and worked really hard this year. Struggle is good for the soul and has shown me that I'm a lot stronger than I ever thought. I pushed through and have grown more comfortable in Cycle 1. I look forward to the 2nd Trimester, which will be the main teaching time. 12 weeks of uninterrupted teaching time will allow the teaching of lots of standards. Children really "grow" during this time and the boys will be separated from the men. I look forward to the challenges which are ahead and whatever the future holds.
New Years is quickly approaching and time to make the dreaded "New Year's Resolution". For the first time in my life, I kept my resolution for 2013...giving up Diet Coke. It's been almost a year and I'm still caffeine free. This year, I've decided to give up a very bad habit,,,.biting my fingernails. I'm 46 and have never been successful in stopping. Went to the nail salon this week and had them put extensions on top of my nonexistent fingernails. If I can't see them, I won't bite them. Makes sense to me.
As the year comes to an end, I want to wish all my friends and family the best of luck in 2014. May all your hopes, dreams, and wishes come true. May God bless and keep you in the upcoming year and give you strength when needed. Until we meet again :)
