Today's the Day...

It was in mid May of 2006 that Kyle accepted the National Weather Service job in Brownsville, Texas. On my 50th birthday, Kyle and Steve were in Texas scouting out a place for Kyle to live. I stayed home and had myself a big ol' pity party. A couple of weeks later, with a smile on my face and a stiff upper lip, I bid Kyle goodbye as he and his dad drove "old blue" out of the driveway heading toward the Rio Grande Valley. I promised myself Kyle would not see my tears and much to my amazement I was able to keep that promise. However, the car was not out of sight before I had a total meltdown...the ugly kind complete with gutwrenching sobs! My son was headed to a strange place two thousand miles from home where he knew absolutley no one...no family to help him, no friends to call, no church family to rely upon. It was a test of faith...one that Kyle passed with flying colors and that I was able to get through only because of God's steady help.

NWS office in Brownsville, Texas.

While in Texas, Kyle flourished. He met great people, made good friends, and started his career in a job that he loves. Kyle took from Texas a friendship that will last a lifetime...thanks to Buddy, a great passion for photography...thanks to Jim and Darlene, a spirit of adventure that was gained from exploring a new area, and the growth that comes with finding one's own way in the world.

After a little over a year in Texas, Kyle called to tell us he had been chosen for a position in Eureka, which meant he would be much closer to home. Of course, we were ecstatic to have him return to the west coast. We got to see him much more often and we had some great trips to Eureka to explore the north coast with him. This leg of his journey also gave him the opportunity to meet more wonderful people, make more friends, and explore a new area that he came to really love...the giant redwoods, beautiful sunsets, cool weather, and walks on the beach and around the island. Kyle has been in Eureka for almost two years and it has been a blessing for him and for us.

NWS office in Eureka, California.

Today is the day Kyle's journey comes full circle...he is moving home!!! He starts work at his new office in Sacramento on Monday where I am sure he will meet more great people, make more friends, and have more opportunities for great experiences. Although I am thrilled to be getting Kyle back, I now see that he is not the same kid I watched drive away to Texas three years ago. He has grown and matured in ways that would have been impossible had he never left on this journey. He is coming home more confident, more independent, and more aware of God's presence, provision, and love. The journey was not always easy, but it was necessary because it was part of His plan for Kyle's life.

Welcome home Kyle and Happy Mother's Day to me...this is the best gift ever!!