October 4, 2003

We spent much of today getting caught up on what has been happening with the PCUSA offices in Louisville, Kentucky, including working on interfaith dialogue projects in the US.

A momentary feeling of euphoria during the “white elephant” gift exchange!

As it was our last full day here, we made the most of it, playing soccer on the (grass!) field, swimming in the pool, and playing a swapping game. Everyone contributed an item to give away (no one knew this would happen, so the assortment of gifts was quite odd), and then traded and traded until they were all distributed. They ranged from a lovely wooden cross to a half-eaten bag of Doritos. Since today was Elizabeth's birthday, it seemed fitting that she ended up with one of the more useful and prized gifts, a book. Marthame got a seashell. And Charlie Brown got a rock. Poor, poor Charlie Brown.