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I've known I was going to be writing this post for a long time, but it now seems very surreal now that I'm actually typing out the words. 

We are moving.

I have so many emotions tumbling around it's hard to even express them, but I want to--I need to.  We came here right out of school almost ten years ago--four of our five children were born here, and we built and bought our first home.  So many "firsts"...a piece of my heart will always belong here.

I am feeling immense sadness at having to say goodbye. There really aren't words to express how I feel about leaving friends that are really more like family.  They are the kind of friends you can snuggle up in bed with and watch a favorite tv show, and friends you can tell anything to, knowing there will be no judgment, and that your secret is safe.  They understand when you're grumpy and having a hard day, and love you anyway. They know when to talk, and when to say nothing at all.  We've been through an incredible amount together--we've endured deep loss and grief, cheered each other on through our individual accomplishments, celebrated births and mourned deaths. They know me better than anyone. They are a part of me, and always will be, regardless of the miles between us.

There are so many people I will greatly miss--that have been a part of my life, and have left their mark indelibly on my soul.  Whether it was watching Jane Austen movies, going to the park, scrapbooking, discussing books, singing, running, playing volleyball, performing, playing the piano, shopping, baking, organizing events, going to lunch, making crafts, preparing for babies, playing games or just hanging out, it meant the world to me, as do they. I feel so incredibly blessed to have crossed their paths, and I don't think it was coincidence.

Along with the sadness, I am excited for a new adventure, and looking forward to all the things we will experience together as a family. We've already started making a list of the things we want to do and see, and the places we want to go, and it's really fun to think about all of those opportunities.

The next couple of months are going to be crazy--with all the things that come with trying to uproot a family of seven and moving them to a different part of the country. My deep hope is that amidst all this craziness, I can take the time to enjoy our last few months, and leave with no regrets.

Soon we will be residents of the great state of Texas, but for now...I'm a Michigander at heart.

P.S.  I am more thrilled that I can say that I will get to wear flip flops year round...without getting funny looks.  ☺