This morning I went through pictures of our new home on Trulia.  I found myself praying over each room displayed and asking God what He would have for every square inch of that house.  I prayed for open doors, for a full table of new neighbors, for a kitchen filled with the laughter of new friends.  I prayed that the sitting areas would be places of refuge and shared hearts.  I prayed that the beds would be filled with out of town visitors.  That the new and wonderful outdoor entertaining spaces would be used to their full potential in welcoming guests and creating memories with friends and family.

And then I cried.

The tears, I know, are for many reasons.

Tears of fatigue.  Though my heart is happy and content beyond belief, my body and mind are so, so weary from the details of this wonderful process.

Tears of loss.  I am going to a wonderful new adventure, but I am leaving an equally wonderful one behind.  Amazing friends that I will miss terribly.  A precious daughter and friend who will join the ranks of her older sisters in living far away from mom and dad. (A thought I can’t yet wrap my head around.) A home that I have loved and poured my heart and soul into that I am now handing over to new and God-sent owners.

Tears of joy and gratitude.  This process has been nothing short of miraculous with endless lessons and answers to prayer.  I have learned to trust Jesus a little more.  I have learned to savor every step along the way.  I have learned to not rush the moments that lead the way to the destination.  In essence, I have learned to walk and enjoy the scenery.

Tears of anticipation.  This new home in this new place with new people and new opportunities is a fresh canvas to watch God paint and create on.  Another chance for me to join Him in the yet unknown.  To tap into who He’s created me to be that I haven’t discovered yet.  To touch lives that up to this point are strangers to me.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your prayers and ongoing support.  I have had endless encouragement along the way from my family and friends.  And the firm grip of Him who gives me strength when I’ve had none of my own.

A new day.  One savored step at a time…

Deuteronomy 31:8 – The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

1 Corinthians 2:9 – However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him–