Over the last 10 months of this journey around the world, there have definitely been times I miss the little things of home. Yet, we really do learn to adjust to the lifestyle of living simply and embracing the World Race culture and the ever changing environment. I decided I would write down the top 11 things that I miss about home so that one day I would be reminded of all the good things I take for granted in America.
#11 Flushing the toilet paper
Most places we have been we have NOT been able to flush our toilet paper. That may seem simple, but its definitely not convenient. Plus, when the trash can fills up it can make the whole place smell bad if we aren’t proactive in taking care of it.
#10 Wearing different cloths
On the race, I brought 2 pairs of pants and 4 pairs of shorts. I am currently down to 2 pairs of pants and 2 pairs of sort (I accidentally lost two along the way). It may seem small, but it really is all I need and I am content. However, it really is nice to have the flexibility to wear something different. It has literally been a year since I have worn a pair of jeans!!
#9 Having free ketchup at restaurants
When you go into a Burger King or a McDonalds because you are dying for a little taste of America, you expect it to be the same experience. I was expecting free ketchup and then I realized that’s only in America. Some places will charge up to $0.50 a packet!! If your like me and you love ketchup with french fries, you need at least 8-10 packets to successfully finish the fries. I can’t afford $5 on ketchup, that’s my whole food budget! So, unfortunately we have to make sacrifices and really try to savor the one ketchup packet they give you.
#8 Buffalo Wild Wings
This is by far my favorite restaurant. So much flavor and I love spicy food! Lot of countries say that their food is spicy, but most of the time I don’t even taste the heat. I think I missed the Indian food somewhere along the line on this trip. I’m definitely excited to burn my mouth on some boneless wings when I get back if anyone wants to join me!
#7 People understanding the language I speak
One of the craziest adjustments on the race is simply language. We have come accustom to people not understanding us. Therefore, we speak so slow with much patients and a lot of simplicity. I’m pretty sure I have lost a lot of vocabulary simply because I haven’t used it. I look forward to being able to understand what people are saying and having people understand me.
#6 Ordering a coffee and it being bigger than a 3 ounce dixie cup
The potion sizes around the world are a little crazy. As an American I am used to ordering a coffee and it being at least 8oz and if you get a regular coffee its about 12 oz. Since I have been on the race, I have learned that coffee portions are so much smaller and often a lot stronger. My expectations have completely changed! Does anyone want to split an American coffee when I get home? It will be too much for me.
#5 Driving a vehicle
Since Cyprus (November) I have not sat in the drivers seat of a vehicle. Since August I have not sat in the drivers seat on the normal side of the car (the left side). I miss driving and having the freedom to go places with ease. I often walk or try to flag down a taxi if my destination is more than 2 miles away. However, I have become so grateful for the convince and ability to drive knowing many overseas don’t even get the chance.
#4 Having the freedom to create trips and fun for others
I see one of my strengths is coming up with new ideas and letting others jump on board to make it even better. I miss being able to go on a road trip to South Dakota with my senior high guys, the boundary waters with some young adults, or simply road tripping to see my brothers for a weekend. Being able to have the freedom create a plan and making it happen is something I definitely taken for granted.
#3 Late night game nights with friends
Games, games and more games! I realized on the race that fun is a huge value of mine. If I am not having fun I often question myself with, “Why am I doing this?” I am beyond excited to play some crazy games with friends and high school students when I get back. Even simple games like charades or capture the flag is something I haven’t done in over a year! Is this really my life?!? Here is a shout out to all my games people – Sam, Sarah, Hailey, Frank, Reo, Steven, Luke, Jayce, Dougles, Josh, Julie, Raymond, and so many others! (So sorry if your name was not listed, but know I am thinking of you too!)
#2 Being a part of a church community for more than a month
The body of believers that is around the world is so cool to see. Yet, I don’t feel like I can make a long-term impact if I am only partially invested and show up for a couple of weeks of the month and then leave. I miss being able to see the people at church, encourage them, be encouraged, and be able to participate in the process of growth and activating the church in the local community. Thank you those who have supported me from the churches of North Dakota! You are my family in Christ and I am thankful for each one of you. It has meant so much to me and your prayers have been answered in so many ways in my life!
#1 Intentional time together as a family
I realized this year how much family gatherings are important to me. From missing every one of my family member’s birthdays, a family reunion, a family Christmas, an Easter gathering, my younger brother Micah’s graduation, and other little events, I have come to realize how much I love being with my family. I am excited to be back with my bothers (Dalton, Caleb, Ben, and Micah). Thank you guys for supporting me throughout the race and for praying for me! And then comes my parents (Scott & Becky). I miss you a lot and know you have read every single one of my blogs, continually asked for more communication, and have constantly prayed for me. I am coming home from the Race a new man, simply because you let me go and trusted me to the Lord. He has done work in my life and your prayers have produced a wonderful result. I am excited for the fruit it will bear in the future in the local community I am placed in and also in the nations of the world!
Thank you all for being a part of my Race and I am excited to embrace these 11 things that I have missed all year long!
