The First Day of the Rest of Our Lives

Many of our friends know that Rick and I have been through some trying times in the last couple (okay, FOUR) years. There is no need to, once again, go into great detail about the journey that brought us to today. It was a painful journey that inspired tremendous growth in both of us and really brought us closer to each other and closer, individually, to God.

Yesterday marked the official closure of this experience. The last legal proceeding involved was completed. Today marks the "first day of the rest of our lives"...that may seem a very cliche statement, but it is so true and I can't express how it feels to find myself finally, completely free of this mess. This chapter is closed. Never to be re-opened again.

At the same time the legal papers were being finalized, our kids began a new journey as well. This is the first time that they have attended public school. Reed started middle school and Chase and Hunter continue in elementary school. This decision was part of "the next chapter" and is definitely the right one for our family right now. I was nervous yesterday as they all left for the bus (also an experience they have never had)...and I was anxious all day...wanting to hear from them that everything went well. Of course, everything DID go well, and three smiling faces got off the bus at the end of the day.

For the first time in quite a while...all seems peaceful and I anticipate good days are ahead. Thanks to all of you that have prayed for us and stood by us for these last few years. I know that the situation that just wouldn't go away became a well worn topic of conversation. Thanks for sticking with us and letting us talk when we needed to, for setting us straight when we were having over the top emotions and, mostly, walking beside us on this path. You are all loved and appreciated!