Over and Out

We've had our final gatherings. We've said our formal good byes. Deb and I are now both gainfully unemployed.

Our final time with the Neighborhood Block watch was Wednesday. They gave us a card with photos of each household in front of their respective houses. Some of the photos included subliminal humor. Our final time with our Tribe was Thursday. It could have been a weepy time, but the kids decided to entertain us to the point of distraction, which I for one appreciated.

Deb's final day of work was Friday. She already misses her co-workers. She does not miss getting up early to get to work.

Sunday was our final time gathering with Soteria Church. I took the opportunity of my last sermon to make us laugh, so we (I) wouldn't cry, and it worked. We praised God for His sovereignty and for new leaders who will get along just fine without me. The church threw a party for us on Sunday evening. We laughed, we talked of babies due in the spring and summer (a church growth strategy for sure), we reflected on our shared histories, and gave each other hugs. They gave us a gift; a very generous gift. And one family gave us a handmade Greenland kayak paddle. Always wanted one. They knew that.

Now we have ten days to devote to packing up. I wish our flat screen TV wasn't quite so big. Our house used to be a home; now it's a staging area. But it's all good. We may not be entertaining in our home again, until that home is in the 907. Over and Out. For now.