Being my first Christmas over seas in YEARS, I woke up excited! I didn't miss home too much (sorry folks), but Christmas isn't really a big "to do" for me. I'm no Grinch, but I find it tiresome to get caught up in all the commercialism, stress and frantic comsumption. It IS a wonderful time for family, friends, feasting and fun! I was thankful to have my sister Grace and friend Courtney here with me to share the experience.
We started off the morning with a wonderful church service where everyone shared a song, carol, story or prayer in front of the church. We did a funny skit and song we wrote complete with a rap verse, just in case we weren't already feeling white enough. It was a great time and the church along with everyone looked so festive!
Afterwards we exchanged gifts and it was such a sweet time!
When we got home, were surprised to find 3 brightly wrapped boxes with our names on them. I felt so touched. Then, my friend made the most delicious meal and finally, we ended the day playing games with friends. At one point, I forgot I was 1,000's of miles away from all that was familiar to me during the holiday time - snow, family, Home Alone and truely embraced my surroundings. I will always remember this time and cherish the kindness I was shown and the blessings the Lord gave me this Christmas.
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| Vijay & Neeraja giving their Christmas greetings |
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| Our beautiful tiny tree |
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| What is it?? |
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| Gorgeous sari |
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| Everyone's suited them so nicely |
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| Neeraja's gifts from Grace |
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| My gift from Courtney - Indian purse filled with Splenda (nearly impossible to come by here) |
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| My peacock earrings from Grace |
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| I bought myself a henna design at the mall - I'll have to practice getting this good |
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| Merry Christmas to me, ICE!! (also hard to come by in India) |
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| one of my most favorite Indian desserts |
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| Neeraja's amazing fried chicken |
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| I made pancakes for everyone |
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| and the girls wanted to learn |
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| we played games |
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| Even the guys got into it |
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| It was so much fun |
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| Hanging out having a great time |
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| Our wonderful hosts! |
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| These people are beautiful inside AND out |
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| What's a party without "Thums Up" cola? (immediate cavities upon consumption) |
Looks like you had an amazing Christmas!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited that you got a new Sari! Is there a wayI can send money to you and you can pick up a Sari for me? I forgot to do this before you left!!!