updates....

Thought I should just update what is going on here. All is moving forward with our plans to leave. On Sunday, the church had a farewell for a number of us who are moving and it was wonderfully planned and executed. It was a catered picnic in the park. The food was excellent and the fellowship was even better. We were not able to stay very long as my pearly white skin was pretty red and not from embarrassment. Today even I am still in pain on my shoulders when my seat belt rubs me. But, it was wonderful and we dearly appreciated all the work and planning that went into it.

Next week the movers come in to see how much stuff we have and get an idea of how many days they need to move us. The amount of stuff we have is much smaller than it used to be and keeps getting smaller so I doubt they even need the second day that is scheduled.

Joe's brother and his wife came into town last Wednesday. We have had some great visits with them and Joe's other brother George. Always nice when family can be around. We have met some of Rem's family that lives here on island and have had great food to boot.

My cousin Annette and her husband Ray got into town on Saturday. They were troopers Saturday after flying all day and even longer than scheduled we dragged them to a dinner that Joe's brother was hosting. I caught them a couple times at the table trying to stay awake but they really dug in and held their own. Yesterday, we went to the North Shore and saw a site that I had never been to before. It was breathtaking. We had a wonderful time and it was only drawn to a close when we had to return back home in the very early afternoon for me to do my route. When I got home last night I was treated to a wonderful seafood meal. I even brought some leftovers to work with me today so that I could enjoy it a second time. If this keeps up, I will need a new wardrobe before we leave....at least one size larger. Ray and Annette take off today to head to the Big Island for two days and then Maui for two days before returning back here to spend the last week with us.

Geni has decided to stay here on Oahu after we leave. While I am saddened that we won't all be together or even all on the mainland, I have come to pretty much accept what is as what is. God has blessed me with allowing Joe and I to move and maybe I am to learn the lesson that you can't always have what you want...honestly I think I know that lesson I have learned it a time or two before but my dad always told me I had to learn things the hard way. I never let him down either.

The days are going by rapidly but at the same time slowly. I am looking forward to being done with my route. Therefore, it seems like the numbers stay up there as to how many days it is until we leave. But I am sure in no time it will be here and we will be saying goodbye and getting on that plane. Until then, there are many things that need to be accomplished.

Well, time to end this I am sure there is plenty more to write about but time does not allow me.

A Lesson Learned

Last night I was dealt a blow. I have always told my kids that no matter what, your family would be there for you. Last night I realized that I was telling them something that just isn't true. Your family will always try to be there for you but outside forces have a way of butting in where they are not welcome. So be it, I have made every attempt that I can to make things work but my efforts are not to be rewarded. A strangers efforts or so called friend mean more than mine and those others who have attempted. I am at a loss, one of the hardest things for a mother to do is sit back and watch one of her children make a decision that she knows is the wrong one and for the wrong reasons (even if she doesn't really know what they are...) Sad.......................torn up and broken hearted.

Tip toe through the tulips

Word is slowly getting out that we are leaving. I have been so afraid that things will fall through that I won't say much to anyone for fear of having to rescind it later. But, Tuesday Joe went down to the base to check and be sure we were still eligible for a move back to the mainland. They actually said yes! So, if all goes according to our plans in 42 days we will be on our way. In less than that our house will be packed up again (not by us this time thank God!) I am so excited. I can hardly wait. I just keep waiting on the phone call that makes all our plans come to a screaming halt. But, as long as I let God be in control....do you think that I am trying not to let that happen by worrying about it falling through....lots to do got to get clearing.

Pray for us.