40!

The morning began with Emme’s declaration, “Gideon, you must do what mommy says, because today is her birthday!!!”

I had a fun lunch with friends at the new TGIFridays and a mini-shopping spree that consisted was limited to the brand new GAP!!!  Every rack was thoroughly explored, lots of time spent in the dressing rooms discovering new fashions and purchases were made…a new sweater, t-shirts, PJs, pants!!!  In the last few months, Saint Petersburg has opened a great, very pricey grocery store and wonderful Western shops!!!  Even at 80% off the prices are still more than in the states, but it is sooo great to have options!!!  In seven years of living in Russia, I can count the number of clothing purchases on one hand…until today!!!

After returning home and taking a long nap…which I think is a requirement for the proper functioning of all 40 year olds, we continued celebrating with our Bible Study group, who showered me with balloons, flowers, chocolates, new candles and bath supplies and a great time of fellowship!!!

“40 is a great number!” affirmed one of the 19 year old participants, “You are that much closer to being with the Lord!”  I, however, found little encouragement in this fact, since it indicates that I am also one year closer to death!!!  Nonetheless, it was a great day!!!