Good-Bye Denial

It's that time of year. For expats all over the world, this is the season of goodbyes. A time when the first question that passes between people in a group is, "Are y'all leaving?" (Well, that's the southern version anyway!) And if they say yes, the next questions in rapid succession require the leaver to describe where and when they will be departing, including any stipulations or interesting arrangements they'll have to endure during the process - like their husband staying abroad for months afterward until he finds a job back home, living with in-laws until a suitable house can be found or the purchase of an RV with the intention of traveling the country on a yearlong family sabbatical. (And yes, I know folks in each of those situations!)

Byron Baby Shower

The first week in August, I spent some time in Byron/Rockford, Ill., to visit with my wonderful in-law family and attend my good friend Izzy's wedding. Little did I know until a few weeks before that we would get to celebrate this little boy as well!

A HUGE thank-you to my mother-in-law Marilyn, best friend Amanda, and sister-in-law Courtney for all their time and hard work to plan and arrange a baby shower for our little man. It was a wonderful afternoon with the sweetest women of Byron and Valley Covenant Church.

Dan and I have always said that we are blessed to have the support back here in the US to do what we do overseas. That was never more evident than when I was surrounded by the love and happiness of this group of women. There is something so special about being among other women and mothers during this time of change and uncertainty. The support and love that is shared through stories and advice is what will keep me and Dan going as we start this new chapter of our lives.

Thank you to everyone that attended and provided a gift for Luke. We will think of each and every one of your when we use them.

Expecting Baby Feimster

Wow - where has the time gone? I'm 17 weeks along today and just sitting down to write my "announcement" post - about 7 weeks after we announced!