Reunited, And It Feels So Good!

Josh and I are counting ourselves pretty lucky to have friends who not only flew all the way to Idaho to spend part of their Christmas vacation with us, but who also spent their second anniversary with us.

Brett and Rebecka were here for almost a whole week! We spent much of our time laughing over games and college memories, but we also spent time talking about literature, and the Word, driving around the scenic mountains of northern Idaho, going side-ways while driving around the scenic mountains of Idaho (whoops!), and watching the new TV series, "Once Upon a Time." Brett and Rebecka also spoiled our two dogs, Ivan and Stella, both of whom have been pacing the house all day long searching for their new-found friends.

Brett and Rebecka were here to witness our rival basketball game, as well as the dodge-ball game at half-time between CV teachers and the opposing school's teachers. I haven't busted out my dodge-ball moves since college, and sadly, CV did not walk away victorious.

Brett and Rebecka asked many questions and pointed out cultural differences I have already gotten used to. It seemed almost shocking to realize much of Idaho's culture shock has already waned for me, like the size of butter sticks, camp-trailer main streets, and multiple bars in towns of 500 or less.

We had one unexpected visitor, this week, one who was quite unwelcome. Amid the remodeling of our bathroom, Josh and I also did a quick remodel so that Brett and Rebecka would have their own room while they were here.

Josh was outside, and I heard a tell-tale "squeak," then a furry little head popped out from behind a dresser.

I started screaming and crying almost simultaneously, while Ivan and Stella sat in the doorway looking confused. The mouse ran right by them unscathed from their dog-like brilliance.

Josh rushed in to my hysterics, set several traps, then we left to pick Brett and Rebecka up from the airport. Peanut butter was the first bait, but the little rodent scraped the peanut butter off, then scurried away.

The last day of Brett and Rebecka's stay, we found more signs of our unwanted tenant. Josh set up more traps, this time with cheddar cheese, and the little rascal wasn't quite so skilled. My husband is my hero!

It was so good to have friends. I take for granted people who I can just pick up right where I left off with, and Brett and Rebecka are those kinds of friends.

This will be a Christmas to remember!

In two short days, Josh and I will jump in our Jeep Grand Cherokee and head for Rapid City to spend several days with Don and Patty, as well as my mom and dad, and Tom, Andrew, and Austin.

This is a Christmas of transition in terms of traditions and settings, but where there is family, there is celebration.

To each of you traveling this Christmas, be sure to take lots of pictures, sing lots of Christmas songs, and enjoy your family!

Much love to each of you!

Sunday Morning Thoughts

I'm up early, which is strange- can't sleep. The Christmas tree lights are on, the valley is still dark, our two Schnauzers are curled up at my feet, there is a hot cup of coffee on the table beside me, and Josh is sleeping.

The day hasn't quite started yet, and even though our small house is peaceful and unchanged, with flecks of snow nestled around the edges, my heart is restless, ready for the change coming.

Josh and I spent last night in Weippe with Don and Patty, who I am ever proud to call parents, and very blessed to call friends. We've spent hundreds of evenings in their house- laughing, eating, crying, joking- but this time, we didn't sit around the table to play games, we sat around a very bare living room, with boxes decorating the floors.

It will be so hard to tell Don and Patty goodbye as they head for South Dakota. Josh and I are so excited for the adventures that lie ahead for them, but we're grieving for ourselves.

This will be a lonely valley.

I guess this isn't a blog where I have much to say. Change can be exciting and we can be eager for it, but when we have to sit back and watch others go first, driving Change, it's really hard to be left at the curb, waving goodbye.

Please join me in prayer for Don and Patty as they go. I know God has something wonderful in store for them! And I know God can take care of Josh and I here, too.