My parents having been living in China since January 2010. I'm not sure how long they will be there, my dad is there for work and the longer he can stay there the better. He loves it...it's a challenge, provides great job security, and he's able to make a little extra money to beef up his retirement. My mom has been able to visit a few times over the last year, but this was dad's first time back to Ohio since he left. Even though we can Skype, it's not the same as being able to call them any time you want. I can talk to them first thing in the morning, or at night...it's a 12 to 13 hour time difference depending on if we are on daylight savings or not. Most of you women can attest to the fact that there are certain times in the day you just need to call your folks right that minute. That has been one of the hardest challenges. Another tough part about them being on the other side of the world, is not having family here in Ohio. Ben and I are both from different places and Ohio is not one of them...my parents living an hour away was one of the reasons we stayed here...that was an adjustment to realize I'm okay here with or without my parents. I've come to terms with the fact that we have a great life here in Northeast Ohio. The other thing I've learned and thought a lot about since they left is family relationships. None of us are perfect and the sooner we can be gentle with ourselves and others, the better our relationships will be.
For the last two months, I've had a ton of fun having my parents come and visit. My mom has been in the states since Christmas, visiting us here and family down in Georgia, and my dad was able to visit two weeks during that time. Family is important! Here are a few pictures of some of the memories we made while they were here.
My dad went with the boys and I to a fun candy/ice cream parlor.
This is us celebrating my Mom's 51st Birthday!
Until next time...we love you and miss you already!
Oh yeah, another thing I'm learning...it's so important that we reach out to all those we know that don't have their family around, or family that has passed from this life.
My Granddaddy Wood has the biggest "green thumb" I know. He loves to be outside tending his garden and yard. Whenever he comes up to my house, I love to find yard projects that we haven't gotten to so that he can help me with. When he was here a little bit ago, he helped put in our garden and plant knock out roses and blueberry bushes. I'm so excited about my blueberry bushes, I think it will be so fun for the boys to pick and enjoy. The best part, was watching him so tenderly prepare the soil and plant each piece...he did it so carefully and with purpose, I couldn't help but think of the Savior, our Gardener. I hope I can care for these new additions to my yard, those bushes will forever remind me of my Granddaddy and how I should take care for the many things I've been blessed with. Thanks Grandaddy, I love you!
