Home

Well, we're home. Or are we?? It has been so nice to see everyone and get somewhat caught up on things around here. However, I can't help but say that it does feel a little odd. This transition has been the most drawn out thing you could ever imagine. We were heartbroken as we said goodbye to most of our students, sold all our stuff, and moved out of our apartment at the end of June. We spent the first two weeks of July in two different places, numbly trying to straighten our school stuff out, wrap up loose ends, and enjoy a few last days at the beach. We said some more difficult goodbyes and flew out of CR on Thursday feeling quite nostalgic. We spent two days in Miami getting some rest and finishing up with the LAM. And then we excitedly headed for Ohio on Saturday. We've now been home for about 4 days, and I think it still feels surreal. It kind of feels like I'm sitting watching myself go through all these actions. I go between being really excited about all of the opportunities ahead of us to feeling crushed and homesick for Costa Rica and the life we knew there. Then last night I found out that the school is still searching unsuccessfully for one more English teacher to replace us . . . for classes which start tomorrow. Kind of makes me feel like I should have stayed. Yet I still believe that God has a plan for us here and for Palabra de Vida.
So what exciting stuff have we done since we've been home?? Well, as I mentioned, we have gotten to see lots of family and friends (though we don't see my dad and Ann til this Saturday). We have played a lot with Jeremiah and Isaac. Jeremiah got through his shy stage and was asking me all about what house we wanted to live in and telling me about how their new van doesn't have a hitch so they can't pull the boat with it. He's a lot smarter than he lets on sometimes!! His questioning brings me to my next point - the search for a house! We have driven around twice now looking at houses - there are a TON out there!! There is one that we are very interested in (older ranch that needs work, but in a nice neighborhood with a big backyard), but it is for sale by owner and we haven't been able to get a hold of anyone yet. So, here's hoping!! I have also started running again so that I can run the Pro Football HOF Festival 2 mile race. It's only in two weeks, but I think I can still do it. It, along with some 5k's this summer/fall, is my motivation to get back in shape! Let's just say that on day 2 of running, it hurt A LOT to just walk downstairs!! Yikes :) It's exciting though, because a lot of friends have decided to join in the race with me - even my hubby, who HATES running!
Well, that's probably about it. . . I'll keep you all updated as we continue the search for a house, as I start looking for a job, and as we get used to life in Ohio. Hope to see you soon if I haven't!!