Final Goodbye

I cried when we moved to West Lafayette. I never thought it could ever feel like home. Now I'm crying as I leave this place I've come to love so much. West Side will forever have a special place in my heart. I know I will continue to think of West Waffy and the people we love that make up this great place in Indiana. (Luke called it West Waffy when we moved here 8 years ago--it's kind of stuck.)

West Lafayette truly taught me so many lessons. I learned that a home is wherever I am with my sweet family. I learned that I have strength beyond what I could ever imagine. I know that worry changes nothing and only causes stress. I've learned that friends can become family. I learned that change, while scary can also bring some amazing adventures! And finally, I've realized that God provides for my every need, I can make what he provides good or bad--in the end, happiness is a choice.

I've been extremely happy in West Side. I know I can be happy in Prosper, Texas, too. So thank you West Waffy. Thank you for the time we've had here. I'm fortunate to have experienced 8 years here. We will miss you!

Surreal

Tomorrow will be our final day in West Lafayette, IN. With each item that is loaded by the movers, I'm realizing the truth of what is happening.

I'm at a loss for words. I'm not sure what to think, do or say. I'm still very excited, but this is surreal.

Chaos

The packers arrived yesterday. They finish today (6/27/13).

They came a day early. I wasn't really ready for that surprise.

This box label, however, made me laugh! Anyone that ever saw my laundry room will understand.

Guess it's time to figure out how to leave West Lafayette. We never planned to live here and now I can't imagine leaving. But I'm excited to see what's in our next chapter as a family. 

Moving forward while looking back.

McCleary Farewell Tour

I wanted to share some more photos as we said good-bye and see you later to so many awesome people in the last couple of weeks.

A fabulous librarian that Luke also had as his 1st grade teacher. Really going to miss her influence in our boys' lives. Wish J could've had the chance to have her!

One amazing custodian! His interaction with the kids is original and very special!

Many tears were shed on my part when saying farewell to this very special teacher. Both Luke and Max had her for Kindergarten. I'm still having a tough time knowing that J won't get a chance to experience time in her classroom.

Another hard one to no longer see each school day, our crossing guard. Not only has she kept our boys safe, but she has also been a very positive person in their lives.

J was blessed with so many wonderful people at his school this year. Here he is with a special teacher's aide and a friend.

Another great teacher that J had this past school year.

Unfortunately, J was blinded by the sun in this one, but I couldn't leave it out because that is one special lady next to him! What a great teacher!

Last day for J included a special ride on the Boilermaker Special!

I also have some random shots from May 2013.

Happy Hollow School 5K. (Max finished his first official 5K road race!)

Luke as a chipmunk in his 4th grade muscial.

Luke is front and center, getting into the moves!

One proud soccer player!

A chance for a photo with Grandma & Grandpa Great (as the boys call them).

Max with some buddies.

More buddies.

Maxwell's 1st grade teacher. We are going to miss her. Another hard one to leave.