Family

I think one of the saddest feelings in the world is driving away from an airport after dropping off someone — or someones — you love. No matter how much fun you had while you were together, there's always sadness at the parting. I dropped Matt, Anna and Ben off at the airport yesterday after a wonderful five-day visit.

It was a true joy to give my brother and his family a peek into my life in Colorado. Friday night my house was full of friends who came to meet Ben (and Matt and Anna). Saturday the fam visited my church where my drama team performed readers' theater. Sunday we trekked up to Parker where my grandparents and uncle met their great-grandson/nephew for the first time. And some of the best moments were just the quiet ones at home — watching movies, laughing, eating, talking.

I'm thankful God gives us families. These people know how to encourage us, challenge us, make us laugh. By bearing witness to our lives, they are evidence of God's work in us. Perhaps that's why it's so hard to say goodbye. Why — as you drive away from those you love — you feel so keenly you're leaving a part of yourself behind.

How glorious the day will be when we are reunited for all eternity.

For more pictures of Matt, Anna and Ben's visit, check out my photo blog.