What a bitter sweet time for us. The agonizing decision that has been talked about, rethought about, lost sleep over has finally been put into action. The Schmus are leaving Thailand and moving back to our passport country of Canada.

The older two kids are a pushing force for this move. It is definitely time to expand their horizons with the “real world” as some say. Em is now 16 and missing out on a few key stepping stones in life like a part time job, driving, not having a maid for once 😉 .  Easton is ready for more athletic challenges as well as connecting with a few more kids that jive with him.

It is hard on the outside to understand what school is like for the kids always in an International school setting, there are amazing points and not so amazing at times. We have given Em. East and Ev the opportunity to live in many different countries, explore around, be exposed to diverse languages and cultures now it is time to give them Canada. This move will complete the full circle and give the kids the stepping stones to start planning their futures and move to where ever they so choose after university.

Exciting times for everyone in this household. To make the move across the globe that much more exciting and stressful we are embarking on a 5 month trek across the world to slowly get used to the idea of the North American way of life.

Christmas 2015

Our last Christmas in Chiang Mai was a perfect way to end our time here in Thailand. My Mom and cousin Donny came to share this crazy time with us that was busy beyond imagination preparing for our departure shortly after the New Year.

My Mom had been here before so she knew what she was coming to, however my cousin Donny was another story. He was hilarious to have around in terms of being so green when it came to traveling and experiencing another culture.

Our house was full AND it was a mad house but loved it!

Putting up the Christmas Tree is always a highlight of the season for us.

 

The Joys of my life… Gosh I love these kids!! xoxoxo

Looking back over the years the pictures we capture fooling around and just showering eachother teasing (of course) with cookies and egg nog plus terrible singing is a tradition I hope we carry on forever.

This was an exciting year for me as well as the kids declared “it is time for an anal tree, lets have it matching.” Ohhh they are growing up 🙂

 

The love of my life… Happy Hum-bug day honey 😉

 

Christmas Morning 2015 in Chiang Mai, Thailand

 

Christmas Dinner at the Morgans with the Robinson’s. A great night with so many laughs.

 

YES this did happen. Trent’s secret santa gift was a ManKini. He scared the kids for life.

 

Boxing Day dinner with the Glazer’s at a Thai BBQ hall. Some tummies were not feeling to good after this feast.

 

East grilling his mystery meat that he brought up later in the night.

 

Mon Cham for the afternoon. Gorgeous day with clear skies and of course strong coffee.

 

Love the little old local ladies selling their treasures. These are the faces I will miss dearly when we move back to North America. Every line on their face tells a story. 

So thankful for this last Christmas season Thai style. It will be a change to be back in colder weather next year so maybe instead of cranking up the air conditioner we can truly experience the festive season once again.

Here is to an exciting 2016 that lays ahead.

xoox