Final Reflection

Well folks...today will be my final entry as a suburban wife and mommy. We pack up the computer today and do the big move to the country tomorrow. We don't yet have internet set up at the new house so I PROMISE to write AS SOON as we get internet set up.

The move is certainly bitter sweet. I have had a great 3 years in this city and I'm leaving some amazing friends. Here is a list of how I've grown and changed (especially in the Lord) and what I'm leaving behind.

1) Our wonderful church and pastor. He has been inspirational, supportive and convicting. I am grateful for his direct and honest sermons and for the growth he has inspired in my heart. The church community has also been supportive and has accepted us into their 'family' with open arms. Thank God for them :)

2) I have met and developed some amazing friendships. For the first time in my life I am surrounded by girlfriends that are loving, supportive, and really really funny :) The friendships I have made are real and honest and I am so grateful for each of you. I pray that our friendships continue and you come visit me in my new girly tea room.

3) I have learned that I can have a great time at a party without having a drop of alcohol. In fact I learned that I can laugh so hard that I will cry when in the company of positive people.

4) In taking on the challenge of coordinating 80 kids and leaders at Pioneer Clubs I have learned that all people (especially kids) just want you to take an interest in their lives and listen to them. I was a little afraid of kids when I first arrived here but I now realize how rewarding it is to be surrounded by innocence. They may have been a contributing factor to our decision for a third ;)

5) Two weeks after arriving here, pregnant with my second we found a tumor crushing my spinal cord and I was almost paralyzed. That was a huge stepping stone in my life that I needed to go through. I was forced to humble myself before the Lord, and accept help from those who love me. I was forced to slow down and ask for help. It was what I needed at the time. Thank God for His timing and ways. Since then I have become more relaxed about life and learned that with the Lord in my life I can get through anything that comes my way.

6) Also personally, I became a runner (after the surgery) and pushed my body and mind to places I did not think existed. This made me stronger both physically and mentally and I am so grateful for the support of my husband and running group. Running in the country will be a different experience as I figure out how to avoid big dogs and run in really long straight lines.

7) Finally I am going to miss having neighbors and parks so close by. I have loved the chats on the sidewalk, and the parks for entertainment. It will be different having acres surrounding our house and having to drive to the park, but the forest will be enchanting I'm sure. I'm looking forward to the cleaner air and ability to actually smell the flowers... amongst the cow poop :)

So I am leaving here with only good memories and high aspirations for the future. I am humble and grateful for my time here and am looking forward to a new chapter in our lives.
I was proud to be Subburban....but the next time you hear from me I will be

PROUD TO BE COUNTRY!!!!!! How fun!!