Something to look forward to

A couple of weeks ago we hosted our first visitors from the U.S. (aside from my parents, who came in August, but they stayed at a hotel). These visitors happened to be Lori's best friend, Taylor, and her dad, Tim. Taylor plays competitive softball, and they were in the Netherlands for a competition. To take advantage of their time in Europe, the team planned a side excursion to Paris for two days. Lori and Greg traveled to Paris and did the touristy stuff with Tim and Taylor, and then the four of them took the train back to Lyon and spent one night with us.

This special get together was long-anticipated. Even before we left the U.S., Taylor's trip was on our calendar. It gave us all something to look forward to on the days when we were the most homesick. We kept reminding ourselves that soon, Taylor and Lori would be together again, even if just for a short time, and that made the most difficult days bearable. Even Lindsey looked forward to it. Taylor's little sister is Lindsey's best friend, and even though she couldn't make the journey, it was (almost) good enough for Lindsey to have Taylor here.

During difficult times, it's always helpful to have something to look forward to. Our time in Lyon has been 95% positive, but still there are those days when we feel blue. We miss home, and the comfort of friends that understand us well. This time with Tim and Taylor was like medicine to weary hearts. Even though our time with them was short, it was incredibly uplifting. Now we have another event to look forward to: in May, we'll be traveling back to America.

What about you? What are you looking forward to this year? Post your story in the comments.