tomorrow we say goodbye

i read a quote last week that said "home is where you unpack your heart, not where you unpack your stuff."  perhaps that is why i am having such a hard time leaving this place.  i unpacked my heart here.  it feels like my home even though it is not where i was born or where i grew up or where i've spent the majority of my life.  yet, i am deeply connected to this special place.  in part, the connection can't be described in words.  it's just a feeling.  but as i've been going through the emotions that come with saying goodbye, i realize that a large part of my connection comes from having "found myself" here.

in the beautiful snoqualmie valley, i found myself.

at home with my children, i found myself.

side by side with my husband, i found myself.

in new friendships, i found myself.

with the freedom to pursue my passions, i found myself.

and i'm terrified that leaving will mean that i lose a part of myself... that a part of my heart will not come along with me.

the same day i saw the quote about home, i also saw a quote that said, "wherever you go, go with all your heart."  i'm trying so hard to do that.  i believe that attitude in life is everything.  i'm hopeful that once we say goodbye, my heart and my mind will be ready.

i'm grateful to have the life experience that has taught me that this isn't the end, it's really just the beginning.  the beginning of the next beautiful experience in life.  and it's going to be a good one.  we won't have it any other way.

mill pond

i've been waiting for a year to take these pictures.  so many elements had to line up - water in the pond (there wasn't the first time i went), light on mt. si (not always the case with all the dreary days we have), calm weather (typically in summer), a little cloud cover and my schedule (the best lighting happens at the kids' bedtime).  since my time here is running out, i've had this on my mind lately. last thursday the kids and i were walking back from the baker's when i noticed the view of mt. si.  i ran into the house, grabbed kevin and my camera equipment and told the kids we were going on an adventure.  we loaded up in the car, made it to mill pond, and everything fell into place.  it was a fun adventure for all of us, and i'm so glad i have these pictures to take back to ohio with us.  it was totally worth the wait.