Traditions and goodbyes....

We live in a newer subdivision- most of the families have been here about 4 years or less. One of the traditions that got started the very first Easter we spent here was an annual egg hunt with all the neighborhood kids. We love our neighbors and feel so blessed to live in a community with such wonderful families! And it's been such an amazing opportunity to watch the children all grow and change and even to welcome new little lives.

I remember the very first hunt so well. Jacob was just a few months old, and I had him dressed up in a little easter bunny hat.... now he's just one more of the gang!

And the first year I remember Sophie actually hunting for the eggs herself! This year, she helped the little kids fill their baskets :D

This is the only time in our married life that we have lived in the same place for 4 years, and it has been incredible to get together with the same families and hunt for eggs each year!

(Love this shot of Jacob and Matthew both bending over at the same time!)

Zack & Caleb... next year, he'll be running with a bucket too ;-)

Sophie, me (and my Starbucks!) checking out Jacob's haul....

And Jacob checking out Jacob's haul :D

The next picture is of our older kids and their best friends, who also happen to be siblings! We've known this family from the time we moved here- we've camped with them, spent holidays with them and they've even come to Montana with us! We love them so much, and it breaks my heart to think that next year they won't be here for our annual egg hunt.... we just recently found out that they are moving out of state.

(Left to right: Jake, Mitch, Allie, Emily, Sophie & Lauryn)

So guys, this is to you- we want you to know how much we will miss you- the neighborhood will NEVER be the same!!!! You have touched our lives and we feel so blessed to know you.

But we also know that this isn't the end! God has put you all in our lives for a reason, and we take comfort in knowing that we will forever be friends. May God Bless you as you make this transition in life- we look forward to watching your children grow, marry, and have children of their own....this is only the beginning :D