There's No Place Like Home...

So I'll drive as fast as I can go
Through the black night, black ice and all snow
Till I see some street signs that I know
I'm coming home!!!
~ Relient K

Granted, after living in this area for the past 7 years, all the signs are familiar, but there is a different kind of familiar to the landmarks near the town I grew up in - the town that will forever be "home." As soon as I get to the overpass on Staten Island that has the word "savior," written out in grafitti, I get that anxious feeling, as I cross the Verazanno Bridge and see the cityscape to my left, my heart begins to race, and when I finally see the green signs with white lettering, telling me that the next right will take me into my hometown, I can hardly contain my excitement. You would think that after all these years, it would lose its novelty, but it never does. As much as I love to travel and roam the world, there is just something about home that gives me a feeling no other place can. I guess it is the stablizing factor in my life. I have to admit that prefer the ride during the summer months - like when I go home for 4th of July or Labor Day. But it is always worth it, even when it means weathering extreme wind, sub-zero temperatures, snow, sleep deprivation, and other hardships. This week, however, is the craziest driving week I have done in a LONG time. After driving through the night on Thursday, I spent Friday-Sunday with my family. I left home at 0230 this morning and arrived at work by 0645. I am working today and tomorrow, and then back on the road Wednesday so that I can be home for Christmas this year. Last year was fun in its own way, but I am SO looking forward to being with my family and enjoying the fireplace, food, and fellowship (not quite in that order) at Grandma's house. So if you happen to be awake around 0300 on Wednesday morning, please say a prayer for my safe arrival home.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, ALL!!!

Going back...

I remember how excited my co-workers were when they were getting ready to go home after completing their time out here. I, however, have been unable to muster up much enthusiasm. For me, going back to the states is not going home. There is only one state out of the 50 that is home for me and that is not where I am headed (unfortunately). One of my co-workers played Chis Daughtry's Home every single day for the ten or so days leading up to his departure. I looked up the lyrics for old times' sake...

I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old
So I'm going home.
Well I'm going home.

Yeah... I'm not really feeling it. =(

Once again, there are just too many good-byes involved. I hate good-byes!

Maa'Salaama!

If only in my dreams...

I'm dreaming tonight
Of a place I love
Even more than I usually do
And although I know
It's a long road back
I promise you

I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents under the tree
Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love-light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams

I remember the first time I actually listened to the words of the song and realized the singer was not actually going to be home for Christmas at all, it made me really sad. At the time, I never thought I would be in that position, but here I am. Now I find the song comforting... There are many people far from home tonight and feeling as I do. I am just thankful that I have a wonderful family back home that loves and supports me in all the crazy things I do. And I have so many happy memories of Christmases past with them. I miss you, dear family, but my thoughts and prayers are with you as we celebrate the birth of our savior this Christmas.

So, I'm going home...

Out of 19 people, I think I am the only one disappointed to be moving out of this hotel and going back to real life (you know, the kind with real responsibilities). I've enjoyed this past month of no cleaning, cooking, or really much of anything but playing big people versions of little kid games. On the other hand, I am VERY much looking forward to getting back to my peeps. It feels like FOREVER since I've seen all my dear family and friends. There are so many pictures and stories to share with you all. I can't wait! =) Just a few more days...

I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old
So I'm going home.
Well I'm going home.

The miles are getting longer, it seems,
The closer I get to you.
I've not always been the best friend for you.
But your love, remains true.
And I don't know why.
You always seem to give me another try.

Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all,
And then some you don't want.
Be careful what you wish for,
'Cause you just might get it all.
You just might get it all, yeah.

Oh, well I'm going home,
Back to the place where I belong,
And where your love has always been enough for me.
I'm not running from.
No, I think you got me all wrong.
I don't regret this life I chose for me.
But these places and these faces are getting old.
I said these places and these faces are getting old.
So I'm going home.
I'm going home.
~ Chris Daughtry