Truth be told, I was secretly dreading coming to Charlotte this weekend. Goodbyes feel so awkward and difficult. Why would I come all the way here for no other purpose than to put myself through that torture? And yet this has been a beautiful weekend. From our first moments on 7th Street with the leaves crunching under our feet, we felt a sense of belonging. About everywhere we have been (new midtown Target, Visualite Theater, SouthPark Mall, Lulu's) we have randomly run into friends, former coworkers, supporters, etc. Surprising sightings for a city this size. It just reinforces the sense that this is our home, this is our community, this is where we belong. Beyond that, we have had some sweet moments this weekend.- Friday afternoon trip to the new midtown Target. Very fancy.
- Famous slow dinner with the Finks at Customshop (in Elizabeth) Friday night, a particular treat since Emily was then and is still overdue on her baby
- Crashing at the Landon's house on their surprisingly cozy sleeper sofa
- Saturday morning soaking prayer (just for me) with Pat and Camille- a precious, irreplacable parting gift from two remarkable and beautiful warrior women
- Saturday afternoon shopping at SouthPark Mall. Scary.
- Dinner with the Landons and Warners at CANTINA 1511 Saturday night!! Oooh, I will miss American-Mexican food! Queso fundido, pork al pastor tacos, frozen strawberry margaritas....
- Rosie Thomas and Over the Rhine at the Visualite Theater. I also took a nap there.
- King of Kings this morning. So sweet.
- Brunch at Lulu's with Chuck (my father-in-law). Delicious pimiento cheese grits!
- Dessert gathering at the church office tonight. Thanks for your presence, your prayers, your love and support.
Tomorrow we have a few more stops (Tim's last Hep B shot, parting orientations at the mission office, maybe going to see Guster tomorrow night) and then off to Greensboro. I am glad to belong in Charlotte, to be sent from somewhere, to have somewhere to miss.
Hi Murrays! Just wanted to let you know I've been thinking about y'all and checking your blog every once in a while. I love hearing your updates. What a wonderful weekend you just had in Charlotte! Hearing more about how the Lord has provided for you in community leads me to worship. I love you guys... Ashlee