It's Hard to Say Goodbye

     Yesterday, my brother, sister-in-law, and nephew started their big move from Lubbock to Virginia.  When Kevin and I moved to Lubbock two years ago, we thought it was the start of getting the Krile clan back together.  But unfortunately, schemes rarely go according to plan.  John received a job offer that he just couldn't refuse.  There are so many perks to being close to family, so we are really sad to see them go. 

     My Clare and my brother's boy, Connor, are only 5 days apart in age.  They are our own little version of twins!  They have been best of friends since we moved to Lubbock.  And if you've ever had a conversation with Clare, you know Connor is her favorite subject.  They play hard, fight even harder, and know the other like the back of their hand. 

    We've talked to Clare about the big move, but nothing has really sank in till now that it has happened.  They are so close right now, but still so young.  It's weird to think that they probably won't even remember their time living in the same city when they grow up.  I do know that I will remember and always be thankful for the beautiful memories.

    John and Melissa, I wish you all the best luck in your new adventure.  I pray you are successful enough to have a great time in Virginia, but homesick enough to move back to Texas when you can!

I Want It All or Nothing at All

   "I want it All or Nothing at All".  Not only is this an extremely catchy, early 2000 boy band hit (Please, tell me I'm not the only one that remembers this song), it's also a materialistic see-saw I struggle with. 

     There are days when I look around my life and think, "Wow, I have so much stuff that I can't even imagine what I'd ask for my birthday/Christmas." My closets are full, my kitchen is fully stocked, and I have gadgets to occupy me all day.  Then the next day, "Oh, I wish I had more _______" or "I hope someone gets me ______." 

     It's gotten even worse now that I have a kid.  She needs some toys.  I need to give away loads of these toys.  How many toys should Santa give her?  Why do I feel like one present for her birthday is not enough?  She needs to learn to entertain herself with just a stick and imagination.  She needs bookshelves worth of books. 
 
    Ugh, the Jekyll and Hyde swings drive me nuts.  If my house burned to the ground tomorrow, would my life be empty?  No. When I die and head to the pearly gates, will I get to take my jewelry? No.  I heard once that the secret to life is being happy with what you've got.  Why is that secret so hard to grasp and so hard to embrace? 

   Do you struggle with this?  What are ways we can all find happiness in what we already have?