Thank you, Lord

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

These were the first words I spoke this morning. My head was not even off the pillow yet; my eyes had just popped open in a way they don’t normally function at 6 in the morning.

Nick was home; his plane had landed in KC while Mike and I slept in Beijing. I awoke with an overwhelming feeling of peace and gratitude. Yep… my boy was home from Chile.




I’m grateful for countless things in my life. So much so that sometimes I wonder if the good Lord above isn’t tired of hearing from me. “Alright already, Chrissy, I know, I know!” But I just can’t help myself… I can’t.

But this day, in particular, I’m thinking about these kids.



I’m so thankful for their friendship and devotion to each other; they make me want to step up my game as a friend to others.

And I’m thankful for this huge bundle of pure joy and exuberance; don't be fooled by the tiny little package she comes in!



Belen… you are a gift to our family. Please pass along our thanks to your Grandpa Toto, and your Grandmother Monica, for opening up their incredible “Avocado Farm”, and their hearts, to Nick and Ben.

Pablo and Monica… you have an incredible daughter and this trip would not have become a reality had it not been for the two of you supporting Belen’s dreams and welcoming our kids into your home and hearts! We will be forever grateful.

And this kid…




Benjamin. This photo encapsulates you and Nick’s friendship perfectly. I know the two of you have many, many, more grand adventures ahead and as his Mama… there is no one I trust more than you to always have my boy's back. Love you, kiddo.





So for any of you out there who are waiting for someone to come home safely, or waiting on test results, or hoping to win the bazillion dollar Powerball this week so you can do really good works in the world… don’t forget to have a chat with the big guy upstairs; he's a really good listener!

And come on... he creates beauty (and kids) like this!





Thank you, Lord.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

*Disclosure: China internet, I’m finding out, is wonky; Blogger in particular has some issues. So some of my posts, though written in a timely fashion, are not always posted that way.