Saturday, June 23, 2012

Reflections From a Nine Year Journey

As I sit here and prepare for my last Sunday at our church before moving on, I can't help but find my mind wandering back over each of the nine years we've lived in Central Pennsylvania.

My heart will be forever linked to these lovely plains and rolling hills. Pennsylvania was somewhere I had never thought of living, but now, after living her for quite some time, I'll never be the same.

The beauty of this state is unsurpassed by what I've been used to in my life. The sweet, simple way of life here has been a well of refreshment for my soul many times.

I will miss:
  • The sweet laid back culture of kind, hard working people
  • The Amish community and all they have to offer-fresh, locally grown produce at a fraction of the cost grocery stores charge
  • The lovely Mennonite women at the farmers market who have loved on my daughter since I first started bringing her there that warm fall day in 2009
  • The lush green hills and rolling pastures that spring and summer have to offer
  • The absolutely beautiful trees as they change color in the fall
  • The numerous farmers markets in varying towns that offer local, fresh produce year round
  • The loving people of our church 
  • The amazing friendships I've made and those Addison has made
  • My job where I've been stretched, and challenged so much at times I cried. But in the end, learning so much about myself, has helped me change things I've been needing to change for years.
  • The numerous parks and playgrounds our family have come to love! 
  • The BEST soft serve peanut butter ice cream in the world. :)
  • Amazing state parks and lakes! 
  • The close proximity to New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, the beach, and my family.

Mostly, I'll miss our home. Our home we've created so many memories in.
Brought our first baby home to. 
The house that was the first home for our little family of three. 

 I will thank God every time I think of Pennsylvania. I will thank Him for the challenges, the times of stretching, the tears, the joys, and sweet comforts of a home made in a land rich with beauty.