Bittersweet Countdown

The first family member arrived in Iowa last night. Troy and the kids are arriving tomorrow night, and the last family member is arriving on Saturday. We have lots of fun things planned for this visit, including a viewing of "Brave" (which the kids are very excited about). Plus, of course they are thrilled for the chance to meet their newest cousin, born July 11. Last night during a Skype chat, they talked over their menu choices with Nana. Many of the usual favorites were on it: Nana's homemade sugar donuts, waffles, chocolate chip pancakes. And of course, lots of Anderson Erikson chocolate milk (for those of you who cannot get AE dairy products, I am so sorry. They make what are quite possibly the very best tasting dairy products in the country. Maybe even the world). Things are planned, but not overly scheduled. Just the way we like it. As much fun as this time together will be, I can't help but realize that it is the last time we're going to have as a family for the next couple years. The last time Nana will make those sugar donuts. The last gallon of chocolate milk. The last movie we'll see thanks to the generosity of "Aunt" Jackie. The last time we'll hold Benjamin as a baby. So, as everyone arrives and the fun begins, I realize that this time is bittersweet. Fun and enjoyable as a family. I wouldn't trade this time for anything. Yet, I know we have to get to Tuesday night and Wednesday, when the goodbyes come. We would definitely appreciate your prayers as we face these goodbyes. It is never easy to leave. Especially this time, knowing that our time apart will last a little longer.