see ya later

a day i thought would never come is finally here.
my boxes are in storage.
bill is in good hands.
my bags are packed.
my boarding pass is printed.
i am ready.

am i?
can i truly leave all that i have loved so deeply?

i can.
because this is not goodbye.

for my kids who i spend many a frustrating, exhausting and overwhelming day with. i will never forget their tiny hands, soft cherub cheeks or passionate love for me.
but this is not goodbye.
for my friends who hugged me, laughed with me, taught me, prayed for me and nurtured me. i will never forget their kindness in this season.
but this is not goodbye.
for my small group who opened their hearts to me without knowing me. i will never forget their trust in the Lord.
but this is not goodbye.
for the sister who listened across the country. i will never forget that despite her own struggles she never ceased to be happy for me.
but this is not goodbye.

leaving is only a motion. it is a movement we go through to say farewell.
one last hug.
duck the head with tears.
close the door.
drive away.

for me it is more than a motion.
it is a year of wonderful emotions that cannot be summed up in one final parting.
so to all of those i love here in california, i say, see ya later...
because i know i will.