Monday, January 19, 2009

It's Not GoodBye, But Until Next Time

It is 1:45 am and we leave for the airport in less than 5 hours. We found out we were moving to Japan in September and some days it seems like time has flown and other days the time has drug on (especially on days when Matt was already in Japan and I was having a trying day with the kids). But the day is here and it is mixed with emotion.

Today my heart broke watching Emily burst into tears after she finished her gymnastics meet (which she did awesome at, but that is a post for later) and several times throughout the day as she said good bye to those who she has grown to call her sisters, brothers and second mothers and fathers. It broke my heart watching her friends cry. Sam cried, but well it's Sam. She feeds off those around her right now. Chris hasn't shown much emotion, but since he is still awake with me, my guess is he is more worried then he lets on (hey we will at least be on Japan time, ha ha). I have to, once again, be the strong one for my children. I can't cry or let them see just how nervous I am about this whole move (well honestly right now it is just the flight with these three that have me terrified).

It is hard to leave our friends, our family, our house, the area we have grown to love and the schools. I have four friends who are going through personal struggles and I hope they know how I am there for them no matter the distance. It will be hard to see family for a large chunk of time rather than 2 or 3 times throughout the year, even though we will actually see them more days than what we do now. It was strange leaving my house tonight, empty, knowing that some family will be living in it (hopefully) until we return. But in the end, this is temporary, and we will be back. That brings a sense of peace.

At the same time, I know that this is an opportunity of a lifetime for our family, especially our children. The experiences they gain will help mold them into the people they will be. No matter what, this is a time they will never forget. They will get to travel to places not many people, let alone children, get to travel. They will get to learn another language and culture. They will get to go to an amazing school. Emily will train at a premier gym in Japan. I won't get into it, but there are so many things that have happened that there is no doubt in my mind that this is a complete God thing and this is where we are supposed to be. And this is what I remind myself when I get worried, nervous or upset.

So no, this isn't a goodbye to all my American friends and family. It is just an "I'll see you later." And stay tuned, I have a feeling there will be some interesting and silly blogging ahead as we embark upon this journey. With us Jacobs', how could it not?

13 comments:

mama2dibs said...

In one year we will be reading a blog about how hard this move was in the beginning for you, but how you have seen God provide in EVERYTHING over and over again throughout the year and how the move has made such a difference in your life. In the meantime, good luck and even though, I haven't met you in real life...we will miss you. :)

Becki said...

Big giant bear hugs to you all!

I know you are stressed and I can only imagine how hard this whole move is. Hang in there and I am sure you will be glad you are there once you are settled in. Have a good flight.

Carey said...

Have a safe trip. I look forward to hearing about your adventures in Japan.

Kimmber said...

Alexis, I can't wait to read that you all arrived safe and safe. Wishing you all much happiness on this adventure! You are all so brave!!

Susan said...

Alexis, have a great trip! I hope it all goes smoothly and without any drama. I'm looking forward to reading about your adventures in Japan.

Ang said...

oh Alexis,
I am so excited for your family! I know there are so many emotions going thru your mind right now. Enjoy this new adventure in your life! Treasure every moment of it. Don't forget to let me know how close you are to my cousin..who knows, maybe you all could hook up sometime, I am sure she would welcome the company!! love ya
Ang

Penfuin said...

Come on Eileen..........

Anonymous said...

I hope you have a safe trip and settle in quickly. I pray that you all adjust well and that it becomes a wonderful adventure! xoxo

Jennifer said...

ok I have to admit I just about started to cry reading your post. I knew how I felt leaving Mo going to Germany for 4 year but it turned out to be some of by best years!

I can't wait to hear about everything as you get settled in!

In our thought and prayers!
Blessings,
Jennifer

Corie said...

I can't wait to hear about all the experiences and adventures you are going to have!

I hope that your flight went well.
I'm sure you all are so excited to see Matt!

Lots of hugs to you.

Terri said...

wow; Godspeed and blessings on this new family venture! I can't wait to read about all the interesting and silly blogging you'll be doing! :o)

Johanna said...

Best of luck to you and your family as you start your journey!!!

Jennifer Taylor said...

The sadness will go away and all the newness of everything will kick in and you will all make new friends and families.

Blessings,