Play it forward!

This is lovely! Last fall Chris was at a conference in CA - was talking with someone who happened to also be a marathon runner from Orlando who said he could get him a ticket and hotel for the January 2012 Disney Marathon - Chris thinks "why not?" Time went on and no absolute confirmation and then all of a sudden right after Thanksgiving they had confirmed hotel res at Animal Kingdom Lodge - Amy's mom wanted to accompany them on their first Disney trip-Voila - and she got the airfare! From this random encounter comes complimentary lodging (final bill ZERO at checkout) in a Disney property, VIP suite for breakfasts, snacks, happy hour, great room, VIP tent at finish of marathon, shuttle -wow. What a random act of kindness never to be forgotten. As an aside the guy's wife Tara is a dietitian specializing in sports and works with Walt Disney World, has written books and was speaking there. I just emailed her to tell her that I am also a dietitian but more importantly Chris' mom and that two years ago Amy could not walk! Miracles happen more places than Disney! oh and Chris ran 13 miles in 2 hr 1 min.

Lucy with Cinderella - she was in awe and got to meet the "real" Cinderella - and best is they both have the same lovely fake smiles!

2012 - next installments of Turkish cooking classes - loved the huge mug "Whoever Smiles First Wins" - the young woman holding the mug is pregnant with her first child and due in April - asked me if 30# weight gain so far was OK:)

This time there 10-11 non-Turkish guests and about that many Turkish friends and family. These are 3 daughters of some of the women - they are lovely and so hospitable.

One person brought these appetizers and they were delicious!
Fine china and crystal for the table - they know how to entertain and enjoy it. It was in the home of Senay (pronounced Shannai) - menu items Kurt Koftest, Piyaz and Laz Boregi.

Making the Laz Boregi (Phyllo pastry with pudding filling) - notice the young woman taking notes and others watching the preparation so carefully.
Neslihan and Senay's mom visiting from Turkey - no English but was delightful.

And then........I think Medicare could save a LOT of money in paper and mailing costs! - my pile soon caught up to Ross'. - This is the before picture...then of course with my organizational skills I was able to dump about half and then color code our 2 stacks in the next picture. Remember - I am not even on Medicare until March 1st!

Getting ready for Israel - looking up where the phrase Jumping Jehosephat came from and this is one thing I found! I like it and Amen!

Note – Jehoshphat was king of Judah
I say all that to say this: Jumping Jehoshaphat is a phrase that was used to remind people that when startling, unexpected, or troubling news come to you, you will remember to “jump” into GOD'S arms and allow HIM to take care of your problem. Just like Jehoshaphat the king of Judah did when there was such a vast army there looked to be no way of escape. Jehoshaphat and his people called on the LORD and HE took care of the problem in a way that no man could have. So remember when something comes your way that makes you shout “Jumping Jehoshaphat” GOD can be the answer to your problem.