While Raegan and Reece are in NC visiting my mom, Gavin and I decided it would be a good time to drive up to Cambridge and get the last of our things that were still in the basement. So on Thursday we loaded up the Odyssey, and Gavin, myself and Eliot drove 10 hrs before arriving at our dear friends, Jon and Jennie's house in Marblehead, MA.
There were three major highlights to the trip.
Jon and Jennie have been a major part of our lives since we lived in Marblehead ten years ago. It was such a joy to be with them in their new, gorgeous home. We also got to meet their new son, Sam. All three of their beautiful ones are adopted from China. Sam is the newest addition and he completely stole my heart. To be completely truthful all three of those little ones have a special place in my heart - along with the other "MNG" babies.
We headed into Cambridge on Friday to assess how much "stuff" we would bringing back with us and how much would be thrown away. I couldn't believe all the valuable things we had left behind....our marriage certificate was down there, honeymoon pictures, lots of pictures which are priceless to me, and other seemingly worthless, but priceless items.
We spent the night again in Marblehead taking advantage of having Jon and Jennie all to ourselves for a little longer. (highlight #1) We had a great time of conversation and prayer. Saturday morning we were reunited with friends that we hadn't seen in many years. It was great to sit around and talk as though no time had passed between us. Friendships made in Christ really are quite amazing in that way.
Saturday was the real work day. We were able to load up the trailer, with the help of Keith Tyo (one of our renters) very quickly. I don't even know how long it took us but it seemed really quick.
Eliot did amazingly well! I couldn't believe it. We asked a lot of that little one this past weekend. She was such a trooper.
Saturday night was another highlight of the trip. We took Keith and Kate Tyo (our new missionary family/former renters) and Steve and Trish out to our favorite place in Inman Square: Spice and Rice!! This is the Thai/Japanese/Koren place, formerly known as Sweet Chili, we used to go to every Sunday after worship. We all became very fond of each other and they always treat us like royalty when ever we visit. The food was so yummy, as usual, and the conversation was fun! We had a great time.
(Highlight #2) After dinner we headed back to Steve and Trish's home for more conversation, wine, and prayer. Elle went to sleep in the pack 'n' play in their room. We had an awesome time of prayer and wonderful conversation.
The Ryan's (Steve and Trish) and the Putnam's (Jon and Jennie) have a very special place in our lives and hearts. These two couples hold a place of authority in our lives. They hear from the Lord on our behalf and have the ability to speak directly into our lives like few others. Trish and Jennie have this wonderful way of calling me out and loving me unconditionally - no judgment. I LOVE that! We had a great time.
(Highlight #3) Sunday morning we attended the 9:30 worship service at the Cambridge Vineyard. Dave spoke about living the "impossibly great life". Fantastic! It was great to be back there. It always thrills my soul to be among those brothers and sisters. Also, we got to introduce the Ryan's to the Putnam's! I think they will be great friends:)
We left immediately following the service. The ride back was tough. But we made it home safely so I can only be grateful!
I had originally said that the house selling was the closing of a chapter in our lives. I returned home not feeling that was true at all. It was time to say goodbye to that house, full of so many wonderful memories, but the chapter on New England is not closed yet. Being in New England confirmed to us that we are right where we are supposed to be in NoVa. We are thrilled to be where we are called to be, but also thankful to have such a deep connection elsewhere.
God is so good!! I'm incredibly thankful for His timing. Thank you for your prayers and concern for us regarding this home. We are so blessed!
