Three years ago Matt and I made the 1,000 mile trek across the country in a moving truck with our sights set on Des Moines, Iowa.
Matt was to begin medical school.
I was to find a job.
My memory of those first few days in Iowa is fading, but some details remain crystal clear.
- It was humid.
- It was hot.
But what I remember most is how we immediately felt an outpouring of love from the good people here in Iowa. We felt so welcomed by:
- A land lord that accommodated to our needs above and beyond what we expected.
- Neighbors helping us unload the hour we arrived.
- Friends inviting us to dinner the first Sunday.
- The bishop inviting us to his home for dessert the first Sunday.
- The Relief Society president visiting me days after we moved in.
- Ward members giving advice on where I should look for jobs.
- Students at school answering any of Matt's concerns.
- Many, many people going out of their way to get to know us at church.
- Invitations to cooking clubs, book clubs, game nights...
And that's just the tip of the list.
Three years later, I still think as highly of the Midwest hospitality. Des Moines is home to me. (If only family were closer, it'd be perfect!)
Today, on what could have been a tough day, I've felt surrounded by many thoughtful friends who:- Asked how I was doing and genuinely wanted to know.
- Said to call if I ever needed anything--and I knew they meant it. (Perhaps more significant is the fact that I knew I really would call if needed.)
- Cared and played with my daughter during church.
- Recognized that my husband had left to travel for months and empathized with me.
- Played games with me.
- Brought me flowers and stayed to keep me company for some girl talk long after the little ones were in bed.
Iowa, you have been good to me. Thank you. I have ten more months to call you "Home".
Let's make it the best year yet.
The Rugrat and her favorite man on their last evening together for a while:
How she loves kissing her Dada.
Daddy likes the slobbery tongue on his eyelashes, too.
P.S. Matt arrived safe and sound in Texas this evening. Nothing compares to a Web cam kiss.
5 comments:
Good luck! I agree completely with every thing you just said. Sorry we are going to miss each other this month but once you get back I'm planning some get togethers.
Man, it's no fun that he left. I know it's gonna be hard to be a single mom but you are tough more than anyone I know! I can already tell you're trying to keep busy planning outings and things. I'm excited to keep hanging out at the pools and things with you before they close! You are always looking out for other people and and serving others. I really admire that. Thanks for always being willing to help watch my kids!
Good luck to both of you! I bet it's way hard to be away from each other. But it will just make your reunion that much sweeter! Hang in there!
We are only here for another week or so, so let's make the best of it.
Good luck these next 3 months. You can always call me for girls' talk, anytime.
Jason leaves on longer trips occassionally but one month is the longest he's been gone! I feel for you, but I know you can do it! Hopefully we can get together when you're in Utah next - I miss you!!!
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