I feel like I’ve been very quiet around here for awhile.
Oh, sure, there have been things going on. We had our Magic of a Childhood Christmas Series, and some fun Irish giveaways. And I’ve had some posts at The Better Mom and Intentional by Grace. But I feel like its been a long time since I’ve really…written.
You might not know it, but we are preparing for an extended time in the States. We leave in just over 3 weeks for several months in America.
I’ve put off really thinking about/preparing for this time away because, quite frankly, it stressed (stresses) me out. Don’t get me wrong, there are loads of things I’m really looking forward to doing/seeing while we are there. But there’s a lot to do to get ready to be gone from “home” for so long…
I say “home” because when you’ve lived away from your place-of-birth-home for as long as we have, you sort feel as though you have many homes. You have the home of your childhood. The place where the foundation was laid for you to become you.
You have the other places you’ve lived before; invested time, love, energy; the places your children were born. Our children share different birth places than us parentals, so their “first home” is different.
Then you have the home where you currently live. The place where you can let your hair down; relax; the place where your own bed resides.
Anyway.
I keep thinking of the scene from the film, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. Pippin and Gandalf are in Gondor preparing for the final battle to begin. The stand on a balcony overlooking a darkened city.
“It’s so quiet.” Pippin notes.
“‘Tis the deep breath before the plunge.” Gandalf replies, eyes fixed on the horizon.
I feel like I’m in the midst of our own deep breath. Granted, this little jaunt across the sea we are preparing for is nowhere near the apocalyptic battle Gandalf and Pippin faced.
It is, however, something quite a bit bigger than ourselves. Something that must be done… cannot be avoided…something we know will have highs and lows. Something we both can’t wait to do…and wish we could do and simultaneously stay here.
So, I thank you now for your patience and understanding in the coming weeks. Usually when I am stressed or worried or super excited (which I am all those things and more) writing is one of the biggest outlets for me. Its during those times when some of my best work pours forth from my heart.
However, the fact that the words are not there – that there is a wall preventing the story and heart from flowing forth – is a signal that perhaps the stress is more than I am aware. It tells me I must tread carefully.
So my priorities in these coming weeks will be hugging my kids, drinking tea with friends, going for walks, and concentrated time in the Word with my God. Those are the things that will anchor me in this time of change, upheaval, adventure. I look forward to when the words pour forth again…for I feel writing is a part of who I am.
In the mean time I’ll hold my breath, preparing for the plunge to the waters of adventure and change. Are you along for the ride?
Comments 11
I totally understand where you are – praying you will get to your ‘plunge’ calmly and with a wonderful excitement! How long are you going to be away? It’s always so hectic when you go ‘home’ trying to see everyone and do everything – just make sure you take time to relax and enjoy it. Praying your stress doesn’t get too great and that you get lots of time to hug the kids and read the Word!! Looking forward to your posts Stateside!! Tx
Author
Thanks, Tanya! We’ll be there for 6 months, arriving back here mid-August. Thanks for the prayers!
I know well how you feel. We lived in Canada (definately NOT as far away as Ireland…) for 7 years and I always felt the same way you do when we were about to go “home” for a while. It’s almost a confusing feeling. Praying your time “home” will be refreshing and give you a fresh outlook on your life in Ireland!
Author
Thank you, Amy!!
Would you call this a furlow? (I hope I spelled that correctly.)
We’re headed to my husband’s “home” in Louisiana this June. It’s been about 5 years since the whole family went down. It’s no where near 6 months but kind of a big deal witha family of six plus doggy.
Author
No, it’s not really a furlow or leave or sabbatical, since we will still be working. It’s to do with the laws between America and other countries with similar tax systems. If we had our choice, we’d only go for 2-3 months. Alas, we must do 6.
it’d be fun for some of us American bloggers could meet you.
Author
That would be fun!
Are you going to be in Colorado?
Author
At this point, I don’t think so. 🙁
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