Good-Byes

This past Saturday, July 26, I had a going-away party. I wanted to have the opportunity to see some people that I haven't seen in awhile before I left for California. I had an awesome time talking with all the people who came. I was really pleased that most of the important people in my life were able to come to the party. Some people couldn't attend because they lived too far away, but I really appreciated the fact that many people made me a priority on such a special occasion. My friends Christy and David Schmuck get extra brownie points for coming all the way from Kansas City so that they could say good-bye to me. I had quite the mix of friends at the party - friends I've had for 10 years, college friends, and singles' Bible study friends. Family friends from our old church, First Baptist Church of Carl Junction, also came. I especially enjoyed seeing my old church friends because they feel like extended family members to me. The party turned out even better than I had hoped. I was so pleased to be able to have some final closure on my life in Missouri and say good-bye to people for whom I really cared.

Now that the party is over, the reality that I'm actually leaving Missouri has really set in. I'm so excited to be moving to California. However, I am sad to be leaving behind so many people who are so important to me. I am thankful that God has blessed me with so many great people who have been a part of my life for these past 10 years. These people have made a lasting impact on my life, which I will never forget.