Before I get down to the sentimental family stuff Im sure this month of thankfulness will bring, I'll say how greatful I am for a wonderful neighbor. Leaving Milford, one of the hardest things for me was leaving behind my neighbors. It was so hard that I refused to say goodbye... Her kids were my kids, and my kids were hers. We borrowed sugar, switched babysitting, decorated cupcakes, and celebrated birthdays. We chased down our barefooted kids as the speeded off in their bikes without helmets and our closets were filled with each others kids shoes, mittens and hats lol... For the first weeks in this new house there'd be times I'd yell at the kids, "just go to the neighbors!" then realize what I said and choke a laugh out instead of crying in front of the kids. When we skyped them the first time and heard their voices in my kitchen I sobbed, the ache was too much. Then finally i met my new neighbor, and her oldest son hit it off with Coco and Cai, and while I still miss my neighbors from NH (and they promised to come visit ehem!) my heart is comforted to know I can walk to a friendly face and borrow batteries or salt if I need to. And so while they'll never be replaced, the void is a bit lessened knowing I'm blessed again to have a wonderful neighbor and friend, and for that I'm thankful...

A moving prayer

I know we are called. I know we are meant to be in Texas. I know God is opening doors, windows and skylights. I know He is orchastrating details and fitting the pieces of the puzzle of our lives perfectly. All I ask Lord is that the ache in my heart for my kids will lessen. They are leaving behind all they know to be constant and secure. Memories, their home, their big back yard that's been a treasure chest of adventures...frogs, fallen logs to ballance on, crows to scare, deer to silently watch, rocks to climb, swings to soar, woods to explore, wildflowers to pick, mudpies, colorful, bright leaves to rake and jump in, snowmen to create...then there's their friends and neighbors who feel more like family then mere street sharers...family, cousins, grandparents, family vacations at the lake, and so much more...

Give me wisdom to say the right words to them, and the patience to continually ease their fears. Give me extra love and grace to always find the strength to offer one more hug and and one more reasurring smile. They are Your children before they are mine. You care for them so much more than I ever could. You have their best interests at heart and know their future is bright. I trust You, I move forward with joy and anticipation knowing this is Your leading, and where You lead and we obey, there are blessings to be found. So thank You for the peace that passes all understanding, both in my heart and in my babies hearts, amen.