Remember me???

Hi stranger! It's been a while, I know. Life's been busy!

Last Wednesday, I had to put my Matthew on a plane back to Illinois to get ready for a new school year. Heartbreaking. But before he left, we had a couple more wonderful days together. We wrapped up some loose ends and then spent an afternoon and evening at the beach, just the three of us, playing, laughing and enjoying a gorgeous day. The goodbyes were so hard for all of us, but most of all for Garin. He doesn't quite understand why his Bubby must leave or that he will be back (do any of us really understand???). We said our goodbyes at security, but as Matt walked away, Garin fought to get out of my arms and tried to follow him, crying, "NOOO!" I scooped him up and tried to comfort him, and he began screaming, "Bubby, my Bubby!" It was horrible. Since then, he's been afraid to get out of my sight. Karl has been on a mission that has delayed him at every turn, and he has been gone for two weeks now. Missions are always hard on Garin, but with his Bubby leaving too, he has been struggling emotionally in a way I've never seen from him. Anything can bring a complete breakdown. My heart aches for him, and I pray that Karl will be home soon. I think this will make a huge difference for Garin. If you feel led to pray along those lines too, we'd appreciate it.

I spent Thursday cleaning house and washing all the sheets because....drum roll, please....my sister and her family arrived Friday morning for a whole week of family fun!!!!!!!! Marci, Greg, Sandra, Eli and Emma have now been here for two full days. We have really been enjoying some time together, and I am so thankful that they are here. (Marci asked me last night if I have blogged about how wonderful it is to have my precious sister and her family here and feigned to take offense that I haven't bragged on them yet. Marci, this is for you!) We have day trips planned to the beach, NYC, and DC (along with a few restful days). We should all be thoroughly exhausted, sunburned and cultured by week's end!