thanks for the memories

Sensory overload just might be where I'm at right now. In the past seven weeks we've traveled to five different states and thereby returned to important places that have had a part in making us who we are. Memories abound. We arrive, drive around, reminisce, exclaim over how things have changed, and eventually get used to how the place is today, just before it is time to leave again. It's all starting to be a little overwhelming.

This past weekend we were in northern states––primarily the one where a huge part of our lives took place: high school, college, courtship, and early marriage. Flip the screen and find our early days working as youth pastor; then flip the screen again and find us freshly returned from Africa, with two little boys, and beginning our home schooling adventure.  All taking place within a 10 mile radius. (We also went back to Spouse's hometown this weekend!) As we drove around sometimes things were clear, sometimes vaguely familiar, and other times we became totally confused as to our whereabouts. When trying to find our old house, we stopped in a little Italian "hole in the wall" eatery. We knew we were close! We studied the map as we ate our sandwiches––and made a memory. 

It's always good to go back and remember. But the past is past; the present is, and the future promises. I am glad to be back  home to start clearing my head. I'm thankful for the memories, but now I need a stretch of time at home again. Working on new memories.