I'm home

Arrived safely on US soil Thursday afternoon. It feels so great! Really I practically knocked over my dad hugging him at the airport. I've already checked three things off my "American foods I'm craving" list. Thin Mint Blizzard on the way home from the airport, Waffle House breakfast yesterday morning, and for dinner last night... can you say PIZZA from Mellow Mushroom! I've also started working on sorting out my life here. Already picked up a new cell phone and reactivated my old number. Text or phone if you have the number... as I'm trying to update my old contact info. Picked up a few applications for some part time work and will start looking for a car next week.

But this weekend, I'm celebrating. Tonight several of my best friends are headed my way for dinner. Tomorrow grandparents, uncle, and a sister or two will make the journey for church and lunch afterward. In the midst of it all I'm still trying to get on the right schedule. Going to bed at what is an appropriate EST time 10 to 10:30 both nights, but waking up so so early. Yesterday exactly at 6AM and this morning at 5:30. At least I have a sweet dog, Tootie, who is cool with keeping me company until my parents who can sleep to a decent hour are up.

Lots of updates to come... of my time at Taize and in Paris. Stay tuned.

Just, Margaret

D-Day

Got on a plane early this morning bound for the United States. Sad to say goodbye to Bristol, but so excited to be going home. I'll give you an update in a few days when I've had a chance to recover from jet lag and celebrate a little.

Just, Margaret

Retreat in the French Countryside

After 10 lovely days traveling around Great Britain, I'm off to France for a retreat at Taize. Please be in prayer for my experience there... first that I make it to the center safely and without incident and second that this time will spiritually prepare me for my return to the states. I'm also praying for the continued revelation of what I am being called to pursue next.

Before I return to the UK to board a plane I've scheduled a few days in Paris to rediscover the city I first met when I was 19, though this time without my great aunt and uncle who were such gracious hosts. Hope my high school French will see me through.

Just, Margaret

Happy 85th!

My Granddaddy is 85 today. Contrary to how it may seem from this photograph (which is my favorite photo of him by the way), at 85 he is as sharp as ever... though he does enjoy acting goofy every once and a while. As much as I enjoy laughing with him, I also enjoy philosophizing and praying with him. He is a man of great faith and great love for my grandmother, his children and grandchildren, and the small community in which he lives. And we all love him so much in return. Happy Birthday, Granddaddy!

Just, Margaret

Course work completed!

Can't believe that I'm finished with my Masters degree. Just seems to awesomely brilliant for words. So a photo instead...

Yes that is my 56 page, 14988 word dissertation in the box. What else would you suspect from a girl who insisted her dad take her photo when she voted for President for the first time in November 2004? Got to document all of life's crazy milestones.

Now off to pack... and anticipate the arrival of my parents in about 48 hours!

Just, Margaret

Happy Birthday, Sarah and Rachel!

My beautiful and brilliant little sisters turn 21 today. I only have the faintest memories of their birth 21 years ago, mostly revolving around the "Big Sister" presents that I received at the time. [smile] I do remember the many years that have brought them to this point to celebrate such a milestone. Their existence has so enriched my life, allowing me to explore my identity as an older sister (sometimes to their ill favor... but what older siblings don't play tricks on their younger brothers and sisters [smile]). Beyond this though I have always felt so proud and blessed to watch them grow.

Sarah- You have become such an amazing artist. Your creations, which I love seeing displayed around our home, illustrate your passions and spiritual awareness. I admire you so much for your commitment to issues of justice... I did drop meat from my diet at your insistence [smile]. I look forward to seeing how your creative spirit will change our world.

Rachel- As you work diligently toward your goal of becoming a nurse, I am awestruck by your deepening compassion for others. You have always been a peacemaker... stepping in on those occasion when Sarah and I were at odds (usually arguing over whose turn it was in the bathroom [smile])... and I know your peace and deep joy in life will serve your future patients and co-workers so well.

Three cheers for my little sisters on their big day! With love.
Just, Margaret

*By the way, Rachel is on the left and Sarah on the right in the photo above.

So dark.

The days are getting shorter already. It seems like just yesterday it was light until 10PM. I love experiencing the changing of the seasons in England.

Just, Margaret