The Joys of Family.

Our decision to move to Vietnam caused some tensions in our relationship with Teresa and John. We have always been very close, and our departure raised many issues that we couldn't resolve long distance. So our return, while joyful, was not untempered by trepidation. Over the first week at Matthew and Teresa's we had many honest conversations, and many tears were shed. At last the barriers crumbled and we came together again at an even deeper, sweeter level.

Then the fun really began.

We relaxed by the pool during the warm days. Perfect temperatures, low humidity. Paradise!

Stork girl and her constant companion kept us entertained.

In the cool, near-desert evenings, we roasted marshmallows over an open fire.

We cooked and ate and drank and laughed.

O. reveled in the company of her three oldest granddaughters.

Her sisters organized a reunion. While I visited my mother, younger
sister, and brother in Laguna, O. spent three days reconnecting
with her beloved siblings.

How we missed all this! Now we really feel that we're back.

P.