A Visit 'Home'

Again, I must send my apologies for not posting in over a month! It is amazing to me how fast the time passes. I write this post somewhat laden with jetlag, but feel the need to recount our experiences visiting Seattle for the first time after eight months living so far away.

I knew even before I boarded the plane that I would feel strange returning "home." I emphasize the word home because lately I have spent a great deal of time pondering the meaning behind this word. Good ol' Merriam-Webster gives the following defintions of home:

1. one's place of residence
2. the social unit formed by a family living together
3. a familiar or usual setting: a cogenial environment; the focus of one's domestic attention; habitat
4. a place of origin; one's own country

Though admittedly strange, all four of these definitions seem to fit my current reality. Seattle is where I was born and raised. It is where I spent my childhood and where my fondest memories lie. It is, without a doubt, my "place of origin." Yet, when I also think of home I think of Ryan. When I got married (many moons ago!) we became a unit and a team - forming a new family. I have never felt this bond more profoundly then after living over here where have had to rely on one another so intensely. He is definitely my deep sense of home.

However, Holland has also become my 'home.' It is our current residence and over time has become our "usual setting." As I mentioned in an earlier entry, the unknown has indeed become quite familiar. For me this is unbelievable; I never believed that I would I find myself putting down roots and feeling comfortable in this new place. But as time has gone on, I have formed lasting friendships that I don't think I could easily give up. The way God works is still a great mystery, but I am grateful he has given me more than I could have asked for or anticipated! In our own way, we have made a "home" in The Netherlands.

I had felt a sense of longing to be back in the States so long that once I arrived I didn't quite know how to feel, but I knew there was a reason I needed to be back. I cherished the time with my mom - a visit to a botanical garden, enjoying a movie while the rain fell outside, savouring a piece of coconut cake (our favourite treat!), coffee in the morning - these things will not soon be forgotten. I also wanted to visit my dad, who I know has had some difficulty with my being away. We were able to spend some time together and I know that even in my absence he is being watched over and cared for. I was able to reconnect with some very special people that I have the privilege to call my friends. Perhaps it takes making a long distance move to realize the special connections that have been made and that will endure. To be honest, this is exactly what I needed. To know that no matter where you go or what happens in life, those you love and those that love you will always be within an arms reach.

Though this blog cannot really articulate what I feel in my heart, to our family and friends in Seattle, it was truly lovely to see each and everyone of you! We hope all of you will consider a journey across the water to experience Holland and the rest of Europe. Until we meet again, may God watch over you and surround you with his everlasting peace. And don't you worry, we'll be back for another visit very soon. After all, home is most certainly where the heart is.