Relationship Riches

Normally, we'd be packed and poised for our return trip from 'snowbird-land' back to central Illinois. That has been the routine the past three-years but not this year. My wife, Gerry and I extended our stay in the cottage by the Gulf. We learned that our three college-graduating-senior-grandkids have corresponding spring-breaks this March so we spent a few extra coins and invited those 'youngins' to join us for a week. Colin had to 'pass' on the offer due to an academic opportunity abroad. However, Illinois State roommate cousins, Erica and Loren will join us and thus become two of the thousands of college spring-breakers impacting the Destin, Florida beaches. It's that seasonal change time when 'snowbirds' give way to 'snow studs' and 'snow chicks.'

The past two days, Gerry and I have experienced a parade of neighborhood 'cul-de-sac couples' stopping by to bid the Roustio's farewell. I must confess that those goodbye moments are bittersweet. Understand that in the past four-years, we have forged strong friendships with many couples who boarded this 'train' about the same time many years ago. We are aware that various destination arrival times await each of us. We are richly blessed and give thanks to God for our shared moments. We are believers who understand life's longing for itself while we embrace God's Will.

Gerry and I have made our plans to return next winter; the down payment is documented. Meanwhile, in the next few days we will continue our goodbyes to more snowbird-neighbors and pray for their respective journeys. We will hope to renew those relationships again.

Oh, did I mention that our granddaughters, Erica and Loren are coming to spend a week?