Bittersweet

Last night was our neighborhood's annual Circle Picnic. Brooks and I couldn't go but we stopped by after our family dinner. Some of the long timers were sitting around chatting. I think we have the best neighbors in the entire universe. Most of them could be our parents and they look out for us. They care and are so hospitable. They were asking us questions about Australia and our big move. So generous with their sadness and encouragement.

We were talking about the house and all the traffic its brought to our dead end circle street. They went on and on about how much work we've done and how they hated to see us go. We spontaneously invited them to come over for their own little open house and they delightfully accepted. It was obvious they had been waiting for this moment. The whole pack of us traipsed into our home. They oohed and awed and asked us questions about moving walls, refinishing floors and paint techniques. It made me so happy that they all loved it and said they felt right at home. Dennis said "Brooks does SUCH a good job."

It was all so bittersweet. Realizing how much I am going to miss our quaint American neighborhood and our house on the Forest Drive circle. Tonight we sign the first contract on the house and I have been a mixture of feelings all day. As it gets down to brass tacks my emotions are surfacing and our coming adventure in Australia is becoming real. Though I know this is the good way, all I can think is, how bittersweet.

"Stand at the crossroads and look; ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." Jeremiah 6:16