If you’re reading this… there’s a good chance I’m missing you right at this exact moment. It has been a rocky four and a half years since I left my Iowa roots. And I have found that starting over isn’t as easy done as it was to roll off the tongue. My mind envisioned and my heart prayed for an exciting, carefree beginning, full of dignity, growth and joy. What I didn’t think about was this: to feel joy, you have to know what sorrow is and to experience growth, you have to fail in order to learn.

Today, I have a great church, a great job and plenty of great people that I’ve met in this new place. But what I miss is the seasons, the sites and simplicity of midwest living. I miss the family I formed 23 years of memories on and friends that I shared life with. I have carried these relationships with me, but as time has passed, those memories are becoming more distant… in fact, they are starting to fade.

That’s just sad. So I’m trying to keep those valued friendships alive through Facebook. And you know what, it’s kind of working! I get to see photos posted everyday from my friends who have now gone on to form families. It’s like these fond relationships have been rekindled. And I love that so many people I’ve lost touch with are seeking me out. It’s like I won the lottery! It means they’re still thinking of me and haven’t forgotten. Now, whenever I’m having a bad day and just need an old friend’s ear, I can log on and rely on their response to get me through, just like the good ole days.