Changes

We have been part of a small group through our church for the past four and a half years.  When we first joined this group, it was a handful of young married couples, one of whom had a one year old daughter.  We met once a week and shared dinner and then spent a few hours together.  We used our time to encourage and challenge one another, share our lives, discuss, read scripture and pray.  We also had a lot of fun.  We have met many of our closest friends in Iowa City through this group of people.  After our year in Hungary, which felt very isolated in many ways, we came to Iowa City in need of fellowship and peers - and God provided that, and more, in this group and through our church.

Here's what the group looked like when we joined in 2008:

Over the years, some people have moved away, and new people have joined the group - and there have been many, many children added into the mix.  We have changed format, shifted days and times, and had to adjust to the growing number of children.  The group has gotten quite large, and we decided it was time to split into two smaller groups.  This is the second time the group has split in the four and half years we have been a part of it.  However, this time we split from the Baumhovers, the last remaining members of the original group we joined.  So this time feels more like the beginning of something totally new.  Change is hard because I know we will not see these friends as often, in the midst of this busy season of life, because it is not part of our weekly schedule.  But it is also exciting because it means there is now room in both groups to welcome in new friends.

We had one last get together with (almost) the whole gang.... Jen had to work (bummer!).  

And we tried to get a picture of all the kiddos (minus Heidi, who was already in bed):

These friends have been so open and generous and honest and FUN during our first five years here.  And I know they will continue to be a source of encouragement and joy during what will probably be our last two year in Iowa City.  This cold, rainy day is a reminder that Fall is well on its way.  It occurred to me recently that we will likely spend ONE more summer in Iowa City before we move on to some place new.  How is that possible?

Whew, I just got sad.  This was not supposed to be a sad post.  Must be this grey weather.  

Let's end on a happy note.  Two of my favorite ladies, and my very favorite little dude:

LOVE that grin, E.!!