Fourth of July

Fourth of July

I hope that my parents don't read this post because I am about to write something that they may not like. Over the past three years, I am going to have to admit that Cache Valley has totally grown on me. I thought that I would never be saying that, but today I find myself completely missing my summer routine of lovely Cache Valley. I miss the fireworks from across the valley. I am missing the Car Show!! What I miss the most is spending time with my friends as we enjoy the freedoms that our predecessors fought for and what our military men and women are currently fighting to ensure that our freedoms are not taken away.

India is the most populous democracy. Yet, I don't feel what I feel when I am at home in America. Words cannot adequately describe the peace that I feel after landing back in the States after an overseas trip. I am PROUD to be an American and I wouldn't want it any other way. I hope that everyone enjoys this 4^th of July!

India update is that I am feeling much better. The ladies that work in the kitchen were quite worried at my loss of appetite. They are so sweet. They made plain food especially for me so I could eat a little bit. Some of the ladies know more English than they let one know, and others know very little, but there was an unspoken understanding this past week as I was sick. They could read my face and they figured everything out. I am very blessed to be working with such wonderful individuals. Yesterday during chai time, I sat with the ladies and had chai in the kitchen. I was trying to understand what all they were saying and we discussed my family. A couple of the ladies were having birthdays in their families yesterday and today. They love to hear me tell them how many people are in my family! I tell them that I have my mom, dad, three brothers, one sister, and a dog named Q-tip! Adding my dog at the end cracks them up. I have no idea why they think it's so funny, but they do. I am just happy that I have all of their names etched in my memory. More than half have names that start with the letter “s” and their names are so similar that I literally have to stop and make sure that I say the right name.

Life is good. I cannot complain. I am blessed with a wonderful family (and a dog :)! My friends are extremely supportive, and no I don't judge you when we can't talk all the time like we use to. This time difference is a heiffer! I attend a university that I am proud to be attending. Most importantly, I am from the land of free and home of the brave. What more could I ask for?!