As I previously wrote, moving to a new location seems to characterize our family’s life. With moving comes the new challenge of finding new friends- friends for every person individually as well as a family. It doesn’t always happen, but when it does- it is definitely one of God’s richest gifts.
Moving to Kansas, a state I had never visited, provided a church home full of people who openly welcomed us for the next ten years! Some of our favorite memories are times with our church groups. People like the Petermans, Bergs, Gallaghers, Joyces, Goodyears, and others will always hold dear places in our hearts.
Our 2005 sabbatical to the Netherlands provided a whole new set of friends. One couple, Frans and Gisela, still communicate with us every Christmas! When Mitch’s dad suffered a heart attack while we were there, Frans offered to pay Mitch’s plane ticket to get back to the States. This coming semester, when Chloe is studying abroad in Ireland, he and Gisela will be hosting her for a weekend, taking her to different sites.
Living in Lafayette on two different occasions also provided different friends. Some are based on church and others on school. Some of the friendships could be categorized as soccer friends as we have spent a considerable amount of time watching this fun sport.
However, all of these friendships took time to establish which is why I am thrilled to be back in Michigan. One example of a longtime friend is Gwyn. Opening the door to see her smiling face was AWESOME! Despite the distance, we have remained friends since high school! Now she lives a mere four minutes away. Other friends live in the area and I look forward to seeing them as well.
Friendship is definitely one of God’s best gifts and one I plan on enjoying in the mitten state. I am excited to reconnect with those I know and eagerly anticipate meeting new people!
A Journey Worth Remembering 