Ringing in the New Year

It seems as though we've got a little catching up to do! November and December really flew by and now January is almost over and I'm just now updating the blog. We had a good bit of snow in November. We buckled down for the long cold weather, the 4:30 sunsets, and the gloomy days ahead making soup and running through our hot cocoa stocks. A few weeks later, I guess the snow went to torture you in the States because we have had quite lovely weather ever since. The cold is beginning to creep back in only now and my mind is turning again to making fresh broth and baking bread. In December, I was part of the International Women's Club Christmas Bazaar to raise money for local charities. For the American table we raffled off themed baskets. Mom was gracious enough to send me a package of Cajun goods and even some Mardi Gras pot holders she sewed. They really gave the basket a nice touch.

Before the Christmas break, the Embassy's Deputy Chief of Mission hosted a holiday party at his lovely house. Santa arrived in a horse drawn sleigh and brought little stuffed animals for the children. The kids even got to take a carriage ride. They had a two and a half week break that flew by all too quickly. We spent most of our time at home, getting extra rest, eating breakfast (and sometimes lunch) in our pajamas, playing at parks, and having fun with new Christmas gifts. Andrew set up an area in the attic for Fox's electric trains, so the kids were pretty excited about that. We missed everyone very much but were glad that we were able to Skype with the whole family. Next year we are coming home for a long break- just under 11 months to go (but who's counting?). In Serbia, they celebrate Christmas on Jan 7th according to the Orthodox calendar. It really made it feel as if Christmas went on forever around here. The Primary put on a little improvised nativity play at the branch Christmas party. Fox got to be a shepherd, and Eden was the angel. It was pretty cute. Afterwards, they had a visit from "Deda Mraz" (Grandpa Frost) as he is affectionately called, who brought thoughtful little gifts to all of the children. We had a really nice time. Not much is going on these days. Work is going well for Andrew. The kids are doing fine in school. And I've just taken up the role of Spring Fair coordinator for the school, which promises to keep me pretty busy. We have some fun trips ligned up for the next few months. Most exciting, through, will be having all of the granparents here in Belgrade for Easter!!