Hello to our dear family and friends. I apologize for the past two months of silence (ok- almost three). The holidays are now behind us and the whirlwind of the New Year has begun. The work with Y has had me traveling much more than I anticipated. Since December I have been to D.C. at least once a month and in some cases two, Miami, Chicago, Tucson and of course my monthly trip to San Diego for school. Right now I average about one week a month home. This travel schedule will continue until July of this year. This next month I head back to D.C., San Diego, Kansas, Boston, New Orleans twice and Chicago. So family and friends please is patient with us as we try and remain connected while away.
On a high note we have a new niece in the family. Emily Ada (yes- Ada!). She was born in February and to celebrate this momentous occasion Rob met me in D.C. where Emily and her older sister Izzy reside.I included some pics Robby took during our trip. We spent time with the girls, Rob’s sister and brother in law (proud new parents) and mom Chaney. It was wonderful! Rob and I cherish our time as auntie and uncle. Rob also had an opportunity to meet and greet with my co-works and get familiar with my second home in D.C. This was such a blessing given I had the opportunity to get to know his home in Miami in December. Being able to share with each other what our lives are like when apart brings a sense of comfort and safety.
We also received news this past week that we have a nephew on the way. Sean and Cate are in the process of adopting a beautiful Haitian boy. In addition, our dear friends Shaleen and Sam adopted a baby girl this past year adding to our count of nieces. We are thrilled! Needless to say Rob and I feel so blessed by the children in our life. Frequently we are asked why we don’t have children and if we plan on having any. Our response is simple. We are surrounded by children and cherish being auntie and uncle to each and every one of them. My uncle Gordon did not have children of his own and because of it took on special role in his nieces and nephews lives. All of us have considered him a mentor and friend because of his special role- we could only hope to aspire to role he has played in my life as a favorite uncle.
I am officially half way through my masters program and in the midst of my thesis. With Rob living in Miami it just seemed to be a good time to dive into school work and make the most of my quiet time. I travel to San Diego and have been adopted by a wonderful couple who invite me into their home on Mission Bay every month. Rob was also able to accompany me on my first weekend of classes. He helped ease my fear of diving back into the world of academia… Another meaningful trip together.
I hope you are able to sense Rob and my desire and passion to maintain our relationship while living bi-coastally. We receive much support from family and friends. I have been encouraged by the many women in my life supporting my every step and easing the many fears. Thank you for your prayers.
More exciting news: Rob will be returning full time to Arizona at the end of April. We don’t know what his involvement with LAM will be thereafter so please be praying for us as we wade through these decisions. Rob’s focus for the remaining months in Miami is to create sustainable change in the office that can be transitioned over to existing staff members.
Thank you to everyone and once again my apologies for the silence. We cherish your prayers and support as we near the end of our separation or bi-coastal living.
