Thursday, June 22, 2006

Malakai's First Birthday and our Bon Voyage Party








We were overwhelmed with all of the emotions we felt as we said goodbye to our close friends and family on June 17th. Thanks to all of you who were able to make it. The kind words and gifts from so many of you truly touched our hearts.

We had such a fun time at the party and when it was all over our spirits felt full with the love that was showered upon us, and yet sad to know we must be leaving soon. We realized that we do want to go, we just don't want to leave. We will deeply miss you, our friends, and the life we have enjoyed in Pasadena over the past few years.

We wanted to tell each of you just how special you are to us, and just how much we love you. Please check out this poem we wrote to honor each of you who have been such an important part of our lives.

To our family and friends
Some near, some far
You have made us who we are

Up mountains, through valleys, down rivers, along streams
We’ve walked many long miles and seen many amazing things.
And yet as we stop to look back, slowing the pace,
We’ve been most blessed with your friendship, your love and God’s grace.
On this journey through all of life’s twists and turns,
Each of you has joined us and from you we’ve learned.

Our family has been there for us all along.
You’ve helped us to grow, to mature, to be strong.
You gave us the foundation to pursue our dreams.
You’ve taught us to believe that God can do great things.

Our friends from San Diego, you supported our wedding
We played, surfed and prayed, many waves we were shredding.
As we moved on from Point Loma, some things changed,
But your relationships to us will always remain.

Our friends from Pasadena, what a ride it has been.
Doing life in community, and welcoming Malakai in.
Our Bibles, bikes, squeegees and babies have brought us together
And the relationships we have developed, no distance can sever.

Up mountains, through valleys, down rivers, along streams
We’ve walked many long miles and seen many amazing things.
This trail we travel will never end
And it’s always hard to say goodbye when you have such amazing friends.
Our hearts are full of thanks, for you have given us life
Until our trails cross again, let us walk in his light.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

that poem is so amazing. it reminds me of something Bilbo Baggins would have written after taking his journey through the woods, over the hill, and back again...

love it!

-linus

Anonymous said...

Great poem! Made me get a bit teary eyed:) I love you guys and am excited to see how God will use you in this new adventure. Get ready for a wild ride!

Drewski

Anonymous said...

jim and i have been thinking of you guys today as your journey to portugal must have come to an end and you are now settling into the place God has provided and set aside for you and your family. we are so excited for you but miss you already. we're just sad we didn't see each other more often when you were down the street...but thankful for your constant friendship no matter where life takes us. our prayers are with you. take care and here's to the beginning of an incredible adventure!