it's cold so I'm leaving

Brrrrr!  I'm relieved to have less than two more weeks of this weather nonsense before I bolt for warmer shores.   I guess living in California and Florida for 7-8 years has ruined me for the cold stuff.   It sure is fun when you're six and want snow angels...or 16 and getting ready to ski.  But all I think now is how much work it is and how much time it could add to my commute.

Anyway, Bag Numero Dos has been purchased (yay Reuzit Shop in New Holland- thanks Debbie!) and packed.   My list of things to do before I leave has been whittled down to less than 5 (altho I guess that could change quickly).   And I'm having an awesome time here meeting up with friends, enjoying all the time with Mom and Dad, counting down the end of work, and prepping for Christmas.   We in the Eby family keep it rather low-key, focusing on spending time together more than anything else.  

I am very curious to see how Christmas in the DR will go down.   I check out DR1.com frequently (highly recommend it, BTW) to read articles in english, follow the hilarious forums,  and catch up on the latest news.   It does seem like there are lots of celebrations going on.   I saw a picture of the plaza in San Juan all decked out in red and green with wreaths hanging on the sign posts.    I see other pictures of homes with Christmas trees and decorations.    My host family in El Cercado is excited to have Laura and I stay with them for several days.   I'm guessing we will be two of many many family members crowding, eating, laughing and visiting together.     I'm also psyched to hang out with the neighborhood kids in El Cercado.    They will come running to hug me and then hand me their little baby brothers and then we'll play baseball or tag or thumb wrestling.  

Good times.....both now and in days ahead.    Feeling so loved- feeling like God has his Hand over my life...directing and guarding.   Psyched that two of my besties have babies on the way,  that healing is occurring in some that are sick and hurting,  that the birthday of Jesus is drawing near, that God is speaking through His people today,  and that there is forgiveness for me.  

El es Rey.  And I'm glad for it.