Now For the Real Story

I am finally ready to talk about what's really been on my mind because, quite frankly, now everybody knows.    :)

We're moving.  Not across the street like last time, or 4 miles down the road like the time before that.  We are moving to another state - Virginia, that is...

We had never planned to, and did not ever think that we would leave Flint.  We have loved this city and loved the wonderful people we have been privileged to know here.  This city is where I married my best friend and gave birth to my 5 children.  This city is where I went from being a young, idealistic newlywed to being an older (but not old!) ;), more realistic wife and mother.  I have laughed and cried here.  Dreamed and been disappointed here.  Been amazed and frustrated here.  In short, I have lived.  I will always hold this city fondly in my heart and it is forever emblazoned on the pages of my history as "the place my adulthood started."

Now it is on to a new chapter, actually it feels more like a new book altogether.  The story of how we decided to move is long and probably better expressed over a cup of coffee than on the pages of a blog.  However, know this, we are peaceful (usually) and excited (almost always) and ready for this next part of life.  I know that the God who has brought us this far, will continue to carry us and I have great hope that the best part of life lies ahead for us.

If you're the praying kind, please remember Nic and I and the kids (especially the kids) in your prayers.  This is a huge step for them and though they are handling it like rockstars, I can see the fear of the unknown lurking behind their eyes at times and it breaks my Mom-heart.  I wish I could take away all of the difficulty for them, and yet I know from personal experience that is the tough times that make us stronger.  So, I just hug them and tell them "it will all be fine."  What I mean is, "it won't always feel fine, but I love you and together, we will make it."

As for those of you who live in Flint and around Flint, to all of you wonderful people who have helped to shape my life over the last 17 years.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.  I love you all and I will miss you.  So much.  If you are ever headed to a Virginia - you have a place to stay.

August 5th is the day we will be heading out.  It would be impossible for us to see all of you before then, but on the 3rd and 4th, we will be having an "open house" of sorts.  We will have some food and coffee and we would love it if you could stop by and bring us a picture of your family that we could take with us.  I will be posting more details soon.

I love you.  Thank you for being a part of my life!