Crikvenica ROM2021

It’s the morning of goodbyes. 

Two weeks ago many of us were complete strangers. In such a short time we became lifetime friends. We’ve learned together, played together, sang, shared and cried. 

The meals we shared provided interspersed extraordinary connecting time. We hiked to old castles through snake trails, crossing rivers, pushing our limits. We’ve cooled our feet and our souls to immersion in the perfect Adriatic Sea water. We swam and goofed around.

This was the best vacation ever, with a purpose, with satisfying work, with layers of relaxation and fun. 

I took extensive notes and stored memories due to unpack slowly in the next two months. I’m full. I’m reset. I’m rested.

The grey highway stretches out, narrowing into the light grey and green majestic mountains. Croatia is the most beautiful country. The girls are content in the back. The music is on. We have 1000km ahead of us, but by God’s Grace, our car would make it home smoothly. 

We take turns driving. I take the boring flat Hungarian portion of the drive. It may not seem like much but Conrad’s gets to rest his eyes, his arms, his feet. The girls sleep on and off. There is no complaining. Music to ears. As we entered romania the rain begins. Slowly. We’re just in the tail end of the storm. All the way home. The country washed deeply its summery dust just before us. Cluj lays under a fantastic show of lightning. The clouds are a deep shade of grey and red. The lightning goes on all night, high up in the sky. 

It’s good to be home. Our family unit of four, never truly alone, after such a social month, this feels comfortable, connected, seen, present. The girls started giving us “ficback” asking for permission, trying to be specific and to the point, observant and positive. We play the game of gratitude. Much needed. As the cycle of complaining seeps back into the same ears the mouth uttered the displeasure, only giving forth the seeds of sadness. 

My mind is renewed. The purpose of parenting is refreshed during the challenging moments, as we acknowledge the deeper need for grace. The real need is for a Savior, for us as well as for our kids in this fallen world. Our goal is to point them to Jesus. When we remember the bottom line, the hard days become easier, with a purpose.