I came across this site, earlier this month, that does one of the funnest challenges I’ve seen yet:

• Take a photo of your family once a month.
• Write a few things about that month.
• Make it into a book at the end of the year.

I missed out on January, but we finally did our picture for February. Today, actually. Which is very fitting for us, being the last day of the month. Sort of symbolizes how we do things. Very planned, yet very last minute.  (That seems like an oxymoron, but trust me, it’s how we roll.)

We sign for our house on Tuesday and wrap up our last week at the Abdos’. The last 8 weeks have been some of the best times I think our family has had. I am learning more and more about how to give of myself, not just to Jonathan and the girls, but those around me. I’m not always great at it, but the Abdos have been gracious in helping me grow and stretch myself. It has been overwhelming to see how all four boys interact with the girls. They have become older brothers to Julia and Hannah and it fills my heart with joy. Joe and Shirley have shown me that, while it’s tough to wrangle 4 teenage boys, it’s not impossible and can be done with overflowing grace and love. If I dare say, seeing their family has made me excited for when my girls become teens. Since moving here, Jonathan and I have had the opportunity to have weekly date nights. That has been amazing. Funny enough, we go to the same place each week. Typically, that’s not our style, as we like variety, but the setting is relaxed and perfect for hours of conversation.

I am excited for this next transition and settling into our new home, but it is bittersweet to leave the Abdos. They are very much a part of our family and we are so grateful that we’ve become a part of theirs.