Introvert Farewells

I'm an introvert. You might not think so, but it's definitely the case. While I do process verbally, I value my time alone and find it necessary to recharge.

Yesterday was an example of this. My Type-A-Meets-Introvert, INTJ personality had a "cannot compute" moment. I had spent a great deal of time and energy with people - all good times with great folks! -  and I had no idea how to tackle the next step of packing. We're in that in-between stage where nearly everything is finished, but not quite. After all, we do need a few things for daily life. I was exhausted and entirely overwhelmed by the disorder of my home.

What did I do? I crawled in bed and pulled the covers over my head. If I can't see it, then it's not there, right?

All that to say, I have loved seeing so many dear friends over the last weeks. Please don't think I'm "over people." I like people. I just need my time, too. As I grow, I am better learning my limits.

I had to snag some sweet time with my favorite "honorary kids" before heading out.

Pool fun!

Wiped out!

Cheesin'!

Brook is so guilty! (She is not allowed on my couch!)

Taco salad + good conversation = great memories!

I have had the pleasure of watching these kids grow up for many years. They are all so dear to me! They also have the best families, and I have loved watching them do life together.

We interrupt this regularly scheduled post to bring you some flashbacks...

...Annnnnd we're back!

As I previously mentioned, I'm trying to soak in time with my Papa. Here we are pretending that it's cool enough for porch sitting. (It was not.)

In my last post, I mentioned the world's best small group. Here's the whole group at church Sunday. I can't say enough just how much I treasure these folks!

These two in particular have been my sounding board for things big and small. 

Our whole family loves spending time with the VanWinkles! It's a win-win-win! Looking forward to performing some four-hands with this girl before heading out! (Brooklyn doesn't know she's moving away from Scout, so I'd prefer if you kept that information to yourself for now.)

We were trying to recreate this photo, but as you can see the pups have grown quite a bit since March 2013.

Did someone say brunch? Oh, and gluten-free pancakes? I'm so there!

Actually, I don't need a bribe to spend time with this sweet BRIDE-TO-BE! I am so thankful to be able to talk wedding details in person - if only for a short week. My heart hurts knowing we'll be far away during much planning and celebrating.

It's beginning to feel like Wedding Central again. Last weekend, my childhood friend, Meghan, married her Josh. It was a beautiful celebration and such a special time for me. Meghan and I have pictures together as infants! Isn't she stunning?

Speaking of brides (again), this friend is headed to Scotland in a few short weeks to marry her Scotsman! And I thought domestic moves were challenging! I know people say Texas is its own country, but at least there's no Visa application process.

Here we are, soaking up the beauty of Florida summers while we can. And laughing, as usual.

See? All wonderful things. I am so blessed and truly thankful. I'm not ready to leave, but I just want to be settled again!

Brooklyn totally understands.

"Where is all my stuff?!!"

"Forget it. I'll just sleep among the boxes."