Thanksgiving homecoming
Today marks my son Andrew's third straight Thanksgiving far from home.
The difference this time is that he'll soon be on his way.
His Peace Corps service in Tanzania ends today after two years and two months.
He begins his long journey with a flight from Dar es Salaam to Nairobi. Then to London, New York and, if all goes well, he'll land in Charlotte about 6 p.m. Friday.
He's in for a heckuva reception at the airport.
Too many other American families are celebrating Thanksgiving without loved ones who have been sent to distant places in their country's service. Some of those selfless Americans won't be coming home.
Andrew's work hasn't put him in that kind of peril, but it's had its hardships and required many sacrifices. We're proud of all he's given, but now we're just looking forward to having him home.
And he's not really missing Thanksgiving this year. We've shifted it to Saturday.
I hope this holiday brings you your own happy homecomings.
Bonus photos: Andrew and Kenny at our campsite above the Ngorongoro Crater, June 2006; and Andrew and I in Mwanza, on the shore of Lake Victoria.
Comments (7)
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I am sure you are one happy family. God Bless and enjoy the holidays.
Posted on November 22, 2007 5:48 AM
Thanks, DJ. You, too.
Posted on November 22, 2007 7:03 AM
Just an update: Andrew arrived a little ahead of time Friday after 35 hours of travel. We had a happy family reunion at the airport, and old friends were waiting for him at our house in High Point.
Andrew's like I am: He can't sleep much on planes, so he's pretty jet-lagged. His friends just left, and he's getting a much-needed shower, with some sleep coming up very soon.
We've got a busy schedule planned for the next few days, as he has places to go and people to see. It's goiong to be a lot of fun.
Posted on November 24, 2007 12:11 AM
Welcome home, Andrew!
Posted on November 24, 2007 5:10 PM
Thanks, John. Megan came by to see him today.
Posted on November 24, 2007 9:39 PM
Doug, despite the fact that speaking non-sarcastically makes me feel actual physical pain, I would like to offer most sincere congratulations to Andrew and yourself on his recent safe return from foreign service. I can imagine there is no better feeling in the world than having one's son return, knowing he saw the challenge and met it.
Congrats also to momma.
Posted on November 26, 2007 9:05 AM
Thanks, Savage.
It was harder on his mother because she didn't see him for 2+ years.
We've had a great few days getting together with friends and family.
Posted on November 26, 2007 4:17 PM