With no sleep and a nine-hour drive ahead, I find myself tying up every loose end I can think of. Despite my meticulous checklist, I know nothing truly prepares you for the unknown. I hug my beloved dogs, especially my Doberman, seeking solace in his contentment and unconditional love. After all, he’s a big enough dog to handle my worries, right?
Unable to sleep, I delve into scripture, opening my Bible app and completing all the reading plans I started but never finished. Still restless, I struggle to pinpoint my emotions. Is it fear? Anxiety? Sadness at saying goodbye? This place has been home, where I grew up. Yet, I’m thrilled about the new adventures, challenges, friends, and experiences that await.
With Bradey staying at my mom’s, I miss having him close for comfort and protection, which usually gives me a sense of purpose. At 4 a.m., I finally find peace in prayer, thinking of those who have touched my life, whether briefly or enduringly. Exhausted, I fall asleep, only to be awakened at 6 a.m. to begin the move. The day is a whirlwind of packing the SUV and his work truck, picking up Bradey from my parents, a final goodbye at my mother-in-law’s, and embarking on the nine-hour journey to our temporary home—a month-long stay at an Airbnb in North Charleston. God, help me!
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
We made it, and since then, I’ve been able to sleep soundly each night.
As for watching TV on a comfortable couch or enjoying breakfast in a safe chair? Well, that’s a story for another day!