Those Who Matter Most

No matter how organized and prepared you think you are for moving, it never seems to really go as planned. Our living room in Vienna quickly became the staging area for transferring boxes and furniture to a 16 foot Budget moving truck...of course it will all fit. We begin the daunting task of loading box after box into the truck, and strangely it seems that the truck might be too small after all...urrg. Not to worry! Alison and Mitch graciously offered their moving services, and with much patience, sweat, and frustration the truck was loaded at long last. Our final farewell to Virginia was celebrated at Rock Bottom (our trusty 'ole watering hole) with friends we had made during our time spent in NOVA. Hugs to you all!

A 12 hour journey south found us in Canton, Georgia at 5:00 am the next morning. Unpacking could wait until after we caught some shut-eye. The next day was spent unloading as expected, but at a welcomed leisurely pace. Even though we had left Virginia, the reality of the move had yet to set in. Larry and Jennifer: we owe you many thanks for storing our lives in your home. We know our belongings are safe with you.

We were finally free from boxes and furniture...now what? From here we embarked on a mini-tour of the southeast at breakneck speed to visit with as many people as possible before we left the country. Our first stop brought us to...well...Georgia to celebrate Alex and Kelly's wedding. We love you guys and are so happy for you!! Next up...Alabama for 2 days for birthday cake and traditional southern fried feasts. South Florida for 2 days to share stories of the "good 'ole days". Back to Georgia for the night with a stopover in Atlanta to meet up with Matt, then up to Nashville for a day to catch up with old friends. Yes we were exhausted, but not once did we regret the trip. We're so thankful to have had the chance to see our family and friends just once more! Our last days were spent with our families. Fun, games, laughter, and tears ensued at each of our homes, but not once did we consider our last hug a goodbye, but a "see you later".

What was the point of all this you ask? Why just a day here or an hour there? To us, you are the people who have shaped our lives in helping us to become the people we are today. Moms, dads, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, and friends...life is meaningless without you in it. You are the ones who matter most.