from Albania with love

A few weeks ago, I came home and found a notice from the post office in my mailbox, indicating that I had to head there to pick up a package. I thought this was interesting, because my mailman is rather cool and usually leaves packages at my door for me, saving the trip down there. I figured maybe my regular guy was out and there was a sub, hence the note. I waited a few days, because I thought maybe when the regular mailman was back, he'd redeliver, but then a week went by and no package came, so off I went to the main post office. 

When I got there, and handed the slip to the lady behind the counter, she said "looks like registered mail from Albania." First of all, I don't think I've ever received registered mail from anywhere, much less Albania! She came back a few minutes later with a big box, though it was quite lightweight. At first I panicked, thinking that it was the birthday gift that I sent to Majlinda in April, as maybe it couldn't get through customs or there were tariffs or something. As soon as I was finished signing for it, I ran to one of the stands they have in there and tore the box open. At the bottom of the box, I found a white business-sized envelope that was a bit bulky. When I opened it up, I nearly cried. Look what was inside---

I know you can't read the letter (mainly because it's in Albanian!) but I wanted you to see how Majlinda decorated the page. Here is part of the translated page---

We hope this letter finds you and your family well. We wish you a very long life and a very wonderful day with your friends and family. I would like to send you for your birthday an embroidery, which I have made myself with much love for my sister's best friend. I hope you like it and I send you the best wishes from my heart. 

I couldn't believe it! In a letter, Majlinda had asked when my birthday was (this was sometime around March), so I told her that I had celebrated my birthday in January. Of course my letter saying this arrived maybe in April or so. I never knew that they could send me "things," but I thought it was just so sweet. It's not embroidery- it's a beaded thing. It is probably about 18" long and 12" wide and just so, so lovely. I was so touched by it, I think it is by far, one of the nicest gifts I've ever received. 

Majlinda had asked for a picture of me, so I had printed out a few to send her. She told me that she loved the pictures and showed them to all of her friends and teachers and family. Her family also hopes that I will continue to send more pictures "from other important moments in my life." I guess I'll need to send wedding pictures one day?  :)

As I've said before, I really love and am so grateful for this friendship that I've formed with both Majlinda and Inaete. It makes me so, so happy to know that I am making a difference for them and their families. Really, what is better than knowing how happy you can make someone, just by something as small as a note in the mail?