Pete is getting some rest

Hello to all! I am sorry it has taken me so long to post an update. Life is just busy and tiring.

The good news is that Pete called this morning to say that he has arrived in Qatar for his days of rest. He says that he has a very nice bed even though he has to share the room with other guys. Also, the place has a nice pool and a Chili's. He is looking forward to having some good food and beer. Did you know that the American soldiers are not allowed to drink alcohol in Afghanistan? The European soldiers are allowed to drink. Hmmmm?

So, it does my heart good to know that he is getting some rest and having some fun for a change.

He recently went on a mission to deliver some food and clothes to a village close to Kabul. He said it was quite an experience to visit a village in a third world country. He drove one of the vehicles in the convoy. He was the fourth vehicle back. The ANA occupied the first three positions.

Thankfully, he gets along well with everyone he is working with and is learning a lot. He still doesn't have his own space so has not been able to use the webcam or "set up" a room. We've been sending him pictures and drawings for him to "decorate his room."

Here on the home front I continue to be extremely grateful for our family and friends. You have all continued to truly support me and answer prayers. It is amazing (but I shouldn't be surprised) how God continues to whisper in your ears to let you know what we need or just could use to make things easier for us. Thank you for being open to what God has to say to you and then for acting on it. God's graces continue to fill us up and provide us with strength as we live our days without our Pete/Daddy present. We'll be spending some time with my sister, Elena, and her family up in Chicago in order to get us through this holiday season. We are looking forward to seeing some snow and spending great quality time with the Woodrough family.

We don't get to talk to Pete as often as we had. Now we here from him at least once every two or three days. Don't forget you can e-mail him at peterzakis@yahoo.com. He loves hearing from all of you!

I promise to keep all of you in my prayers over the holidays. Please continue to pray for us.
We look forward to the day when we get to hug Pete and resume life as an intact family.

Merry Christmas to all of you!
Love,
Cristina