The Crossroads

Most of you know that we waited until now to travel internationally with JJ and Ash. We wanted to wait so that it would be a memorable experience for them and enjoyable for us. John and I love to travel and there is such ease when it is just the two of us. We balance each other and play on each other's strengths. We did not know what traveling would be like with our kids. Today, I had an epiphany! John and I needed to change our ways somewhat to adjust to the kids but not really. We just needed to make sure they were well fed and we had several resting stops. But for the most part, we carried on as if it was just the two of us but now it was just the four of us. JJ and Ash ate before we left the house so they would not be starving by the time we got to eat breakfast and allowed John and I to enjoy breakfast without being rushed or any "I'm hungry, when is the food coming." And I carried a granola bar in my purse in case anyone got hungry. We wanted to avoid any "

is how JJ and Ash described the journey to London. Truth be told it was not completely smooth sailing but only minor hiccups such as leaving my cell phone charger at the Logan Airport, Ash whining about being uncomfortable on the airplane and was unable to sleep, and waiting 1 1/2 hours in line for border control/immigration. Once we got out of the airport and got to our Airbnb we were able to nap and be refreshed. Keep in mind that there is a 5 hour time difference which means that we got into London at 6:30 a.m. which was 1:30 a.m. in Boston. Our Airbnb hostess was super fantastic. She greeted us with a warm smile, offered us tea, and gave us space to get situated. Her home is a  stylish Victorian house offering a great comfortable base from which to explore London and only a ten minute walk from the subway.  She has  created a stylish, comfortable, colorful home. She has a passion for 1950s and has collected furniture and artworks from that era. The house has a large garden to rel

Bags are now packed and we are at the airport. We did it. Packed our house and our bags and now we can breathe. We are excited for the adventures to begin. Let’s Gooooooo!

This Christmas was a challenge with being excited about Christmas AND about being excited about our trip! So, I mixed it all up so that there would be equal excitement. In their stockings I put miniature games, markers, and color books for our travels and their "BIG" gift was something they could look forward to coming home to in June. James got a virtual coach and soccer ball that helps him improve his soccer skills and Ashram got a police lego set. Fits them both perfectly. My favorite gifts this year for the kids was these super hero books that are inspirational to each individual child and your child is the super hero. My favorite gift for me was an ornament in the shape of India and it says "Fulbright '19". Thank you John! It will become a lifetime memory every Christmas! Needless to say the whole family has had Christmas excitement twice this year! We feel very lucky... Excitement of Christmas Busy Building Legos Attentive soccer pla