A friend of mine took me and the kids (and her kids) down to where the van is (almost to Munich/Munchen) so I could get the rest of our belongings out. It's about a 2 hr drive down there and of course we hit a good amount of traffic, saw an accident, and were in a stau (traffic jam). There was a lot more stuff in the van than what Chad said was in there, but we got it cleaned out. The manager of the shop called our insurance man while I was there and came and said they had DEFINATELY totalled the van out and that I'd be getting a check in the mail. Up until that moment I'd actualy been doing ok, but when he walked away I just started crying again. I felt stupid, it's just a piece of metal, but as my friend pointed out....it carried my family, my most precious of cargo to and from all over the place, heck all over the world. So in another of my silly/stupid moments as we were leaving and I did one last check over, I said "Goodbye and thank you for taking care of my family up until the end". The van had some issue's, but ultimately it was a good and safe van, got GREAT gas mileage, most importantly my family had always remained safe, even in the accident. So it's done, the van is officially "gone" you could say. I do think the tears were more of just what's happened to our family in the last week. The accident, then dealing with the insurance (which was actually not a bad thing), looking at a new van, deciding to wait for a few months, and then Chad leaving 2 days later. Oh and lets not forget a messy home, and 3 kids to continue raising without losing my mind, being an example of a Godly mother, showing grace and firmness, giving hugs and discipline (sometimes all at the same time), it can be a lot.
One our way home we stopped at an indoor play area that we've taken the kids to before. It's great because there's an area for even Emma to play safely in, and I don't have to follow the boys around with every step. It definately wore everyone out and we were heading home by 5:00.
Once home I heated up left overs (Taco Soup), and cleaned up the kitchen which was necessary. I have been bad and hadn't done dishes in 2 days. So I emptied the dishwasher, loaded it, and dished up dinner for all of us. Once that was done we sat down and cried through Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Now keep in mind that our shows are NOT on the same timeline as yours in the states, we're a few months behind. Tonights was about a Marine living in Kansas City, Ks (I started crying when they showed the country side....aka HOME). I just sobbed watching that show. I actually haven't cried much this season watching the show, tonight was a big boo-hoo one.
As I end this, I hope each and every one of you took time to Thank GOD for being an AMERICAN. For the men and women who died for your freedoms. For your right to gripe about our government, gas prices, the economy, what ever your gripe is...it was given to you because of the blood of soldiers. Be thankful that because of the willingness of brave men you have the right to worship GOD.
We are a nation full of luxuries that many see has necessities. We are a nation that is honestly VERY spoiled, who complains easily, and praises rarely. We are a proud nation, a wonderful nation, and a nation that needs to imo be more thankful for the blessings we have, most of all our Lord and SAVIOR Jesus, and our Soldiers who are willing to die for a cause that ultimately is greater than they are. Today remember. Stop with the BBQ'ing, the opening of pools, and just all around getting ready for summer and REMEMBER what today is being marked for. Remember that the TRUE Memorial Day, or more accurately Decoration Day is on May 30. Don't forget. Don't get too busy, self-involved, distracted, etc...remember the TRUE meaning.
